Make One

February is Flying By

2012-02-11T19:27:00.001-05:00

Well, I haven’t done much knitting in the last two weeks. I have been busy working. But, I should now be back to normal and will have more time for what I want to do.

I did finish the Shaelyn Shawl, but I need to block it. Once blocked, I will take pictures and post them.

Also, I completed the February dishcloth KAL. The pattern is called Linen Stitch Cloth by Janet Nogle. I used a size 7 needle with Sugar and Cream in hot purple. It was a fun knit, but I wish I had used a striping cotton yarn.

I have been spending time on Ravelry and found a pattern for a turtle called Sheldon and and blanket to go with it. So, I had to buy yarn to make it. I got Knitpicks Shine. The Turtle is called Sheldon and the blanket is the Sheldon Blanket. I also bought some Knitpicks Dishie since I ordered yarn from them. I’m going to try to cast on tonight or tomorrow.

From the top, It’s Dishie in Aster and Swan, on the bottom is Shine in green apple, peapod, french blue, and cream.

I also couldn’t resist getting more sock yarn in a striping color. This is from Lollipop yarns and I found it on Etsy. It comes from Tennessee. I love the colors. The yarn color is called Giggles.

This week, I have a Fair Isle class at the Knitter’s Edge. I’m looking forward to learning more about Fair Isle.

January is almost over

2012-01-28T13:49:00.001-05:00

It’s so hard to believe that we are at the end of January. The good news is that the weather hasn’t been too bad except for rain and a few days of colder weather. I hope the weather stays decent for the next two weeks.

I finished the Nubby Noro Mittens and I am very happy with the results. I didn’t use Noro. Instead, I used Madelinetosh Vintage in tart and I love this yarn. I am using a size 5 needle.

Here is the front of the Mittens:

Here is the back of the Mittens with the thumb:

I loved the vintage so much that I bought two more colors for projects that I have in mind. I got Betty Draper Blues for a shrug and Tern for a scarf. I have other projects in mind, so I will be buying more of this yarn. Thank goodness my LYS is getting more of this yarn.

Since, I finished several projects in the past two weeks, I cast on the Hitchhiker using Wollmeise in Am Kalten Polar. I am using a size 3.0 mm needle, which is normally a size 2.5, but I didn’t have that size. I did have an Addi Turbo Lace in that size and it’s a size 2.0 for that brand. I am enjoying this knit. It’s just an 8 row repeat, but it will get longer as I go along.

I also started another sock. I am using a pattern from the December CookieA shipment. It’s called Rambutan. I am using a size 1.5 needle with the Bugga yarn I got from CookieA in the color way called Heuschrecke. The pattern of the sock in only on the leg. I love Bugga and this is probably one of the last skeins of yarn that the Sanguine Gryphon made (so sad that they split, but I have much Bugga and Skinny Bugga to keep me busy). Can’t wait to see what we get in February.

My local yarn shop is having a class on Fair Isle Knitting in February and I signed up since I am making the Min Ulla scarf and want to learn the right way of using 2 handed stranding. There is homework, so I had to buy two different colors of a worsted yarn. I got Encore Worsted in a gray color and Encore Colorspun Worsted in a multi pink color. I am looking forward to this class.

Well, this will be a busy week since I have to work 4 days. I’m not use to that. I am going to relax the rest of today and tomorrow. So that includes knitting and reading.

First Snow for 2012

2012-01-21T20:35:00.001-05:00

We have been lucky so far, but today we had snow. It looks as if it was at least 6 inches. I’m kind of glad that it was on the weekend. At least I didn’t have to worry about driving in it. There is something about when it snows outside. It makes you want to snuggle up in the house and hibernate. It was a good day for knitting.

I completed the Mid Month Dishcloth KAL for January. The pattern is called Moss and Leaf Cloth by Andi Worthy. I used a size 6 needle with Peaches and Crème in Verde Green.

I also finished the Christmas Socks I was working on. I used a basic sock pattern with a size 1 needle and I used String Theory Colorworks yarn in Kinetic Energy with an afterthought heel. So I’m all set for next Christmas.

I think the next sock I knit will be one from the December shipment of the Cookie A sock club. The yarn is Bugga in the Heuschrecke colorway. This is one of the last skeins of yarn from the Sanguine Gryphon since they have split up. Tomorrow, I will wind the yarn.

I am close to finishing the Nubby Noro Mittens. I am using Madelinetosh Vintage yarn in the tart color way with size 5 needles. I finished one mitten except for the thumb and the second mitten is almost finished too. I used the kitchener stitch for the top of the mitten and changed the instructions for the thumb on the left mitten to make it easier. I can’t wait to use these mittens.

I’m still working on the Shaelyn shawl. I have finished the fourth repeat. I believe that I will do an extra 2 repeats before doing the edging.

I did get some new yarn. This was yarn I ordered before the end of last year. It’s from Fibernymph Dye Works. She does wonderful striping yarn. I got Peanut Butter and Jelly, Popeye’s Revenge, and Fruit Loops in her Bounce base (80% superwash merino, 20% nylon).

I really love the Fruit Loop color!

New Yarn Makes me Happy and Warm

2012-01-13T22:59:00.001-05:00

Well, I’m trying not to buy any new yarn, but the Loopy Ewe got in a new yarn from Skein and I had to bite. It’s a Merino Cashmere Fingering yarn. I got it in two colors Fig and Organic. I plan to use the Organic to make the Thin Ice Shawl by Laura Linneman. But, I need to finish my Shaelyn Shawl first. Not sure about the Fig colorway…. could be a sock?

I’m really loving the Noro Nubby Mitten pattern using Madelinetosh in tart. I’m getting close to the decreases on the first mitten. I am using size 5 needles and decided to use circular needles instead of double points. It’s just easier. Problem was that I only had two 16 inch cable circular needles in a size 5. I used them until I got to my LYS and bought another size 5 in a 24 inch cable (I already had one size 5 in that cable size). I like the 24 inch cable much better.

Today was the first day it really felt like winter here. The temperature really dropped and it was very windy. We even had snow flurries. Guess winter has finally arrived.

First Finished Project for 2012

2012-01-07T23:13:00.001-05:00

Well, don’t get too excited. I only finished a dishcloth. The pattern is called Side by Side and it’s by Janet Nogle from my Monthly Dishcloth KAL group on Yahoo. I used Sugar and Cream in cornflower blue with a size 7 needle.

I did finish one Christmas sock except for the heel. I am doing an afterthought heel for this sock and will do that once I finish the second sock. I am using String Theory Colorworks yarn in Kinetic Energy with a size 1 needle.

I am moving along with my Shaelyn Shawl. I am on the third repeat. I am using Madelinetosh Pashmina in the grasshopper colorway with a size 8 needle. This is an easy knit and I am loving the pattern.

I cast on for the Nubby Noro Mittens, but I am using my left over skein of Madelinetosh Vintage in tart with size 5 needles. As you can see I haven’t gotten too far with this project.

I did get some new yarn: Madelinetosh Vintage for a Saroyan Shawl. The color way is Cosmos.

I also got some yarn from Desert Vista Colorworks. I got a gradient colorway in Grape Jelly to make the Savina Shawl and a fingering weight yarn in a striping yarn. The color is called You’re a Mean One. She really has some nice colorways in her shop.

Podcasts I love

2012-01-03T15:29:00.001-05:00

Do you listen to podcasts? I love them. I love to listen or watch them (there are now video casts) while I’m knitting. When I’m watching a video cast, I feel as if I am knitting along with them.

Here are some that I like:

PODCASTS:

Knitting Pipeline: Paula has such a soothing voice, it relaxes me. She talks about nature and of course knitting. Occasionally, she is joined by her friends (Bronwyn, Chaar, or Sarah) and that makes it fun too.

Betty in the Sky: Betty is a flight attendant and talks about her experiences in flight and her travels.

Just One More Row: Dana and Brittany, who live in Tennessee talk about knitting and spinning.

Knit Knit Café: A Mother and Son (Abby and Ben). Abby lives in New York and Ben is out west in Oregon (I think). They talk about knitting and spinning.

Knitmore Girls: A Mother (Gigi) and Daughter (Jasmin) who live in California. They talk about knitting and spinning and sometimes sewing. Jasmin is pregnant with her first child and is due in January. They have gone on hiatus until the baby is born.

She Knits: A wonderful podcast from Sharon who is the mother to 7 children and lives in Illinois. Sharon designs felted bags and shawls.

Stash & Burn: Two friends, Nicole and Jenny, who live in California and talk about knitting and some spinning.

2 Knit Lit Chicks: Another Mother (Barb) and Daughter (Tracie) podcast. They talk about knitting and what books they read.

Never Not Knitting: A podcast by Alana Dakos, one of the authors of Coastal Knits. Alana has a wonderful podcast, but she is on hiatus since she just had a baby.

VIDEO CAST:

Knit 1 Heart too: Two friends from the Boston area (Wendy and Sheila ) who talk about knitting and spinning.

Knitabulls: Diane from Colorado who has a great video cast about knitting and some spinning.

Stockinette Zombies: Two friends, Megan and Amy, who live in Minnesota. A fun video cast about knitting.

Round the Twist: One of the first video casts. Carin did help out on the Lime and Violet podcast, when Lime was busy. Carin talks about knitting and spinning.

The Knit Girllls: Two southern girls (Laura and Leslie), who are great fun. They talk about knitting and spinning and do quite a few reviews of books and magazines.

90% Knitting: Lisa from the Pittsburgh, PA area who also is a dyer and owns Fibernymph Dyeworks. She talks about knitting and spinning and what yarns she is putting up in her shop for the week.

All of these podcasters and videocasters have groups on Ravelry (except for Betty in the Sky), where you can learn more and participate in KALs.

Since the podcasts are audio, they are easier to take with you and listen in the car, while the video casts are nicer because you can see what yarns and projects they are talking about. I listen to these through itunes, but I have linked to their websites, so you can listen to them online too. I do listen to other podcasts, but the above are my favorites. Enjoy!

Happy New Year

2012-01-01T15:12:00.001-05:00

Well, it’s time to look back at my goals from 2011 and what goals I want to accomplish in 2012.

GOALS for 2011

1. Finish organizing closets and cabinets and purge items – I accomplished this goal. I donated quite a few things and had a yard sale. I am pretty cleaned out, but could go back through the house again to get rid some more things.

2. Update blog at least once a week – Accomplished, I had 59 blog posts. I didn’t always blog once a week but made up for it in other weeks when I did more than one blog.

3. Knit 12 pairs of socks – Accomplished, I knit 14 pairs of socks.

4. Finish some UFO’s – Accomplished. At the beginning of 2011, I had 24 UFO’s. I frogged 8 projects and finished everything else, except 3 projects. At the beginning of 2012, I have 8 UFO’s (including the 3 left over from 2011).

5. Join Weight Watchers – Well, I did kind of accomplish this goal. I did join WW, lost some weight, and then quit and gained it back.

6. Read 65 books – Accomplished, I read 72 books.

7. Stash bust – I did some stash busting, but probably brought in more yarn than I used from my stash.

8. Recycle old electronics – Accomplished, I got rid of all old electronics when they had a recycling event in my county.

GOALS for 2012

1. Read 65 books

2. Definitely Stash Bust

3. Knit 12 pairs of socks

4. Lose Weight

5. Knit at least one toy

6. Finish knitting a two color project (this is already on the needles and I want to finish it)

7. Finish my Central Park Hoodie

That is all the goals I am going to set for 2012.

WHAT I KNIT IN 2011

I completed 71 projects in 2011, which was great. I only finished 47 projects in 2010.

5 Hats

28 Dishcloths

1 Toddler Sweater

2 Puppets

14 Pairs of socks

1 Bib

5 Shawl

1 Stole

6 Scarves

1 Pair of Mittens

2 Cowls

1 Shrug

1 Baby Blanket

1 Blanket

1 Afghan

1 Kitchen Towel

UFO’s

Min Ulla Scarf

Copykat Shawl

Olivia Sweater

Cat Bordhi Sock

Central Park Hoodie

Soft Waves Afghan

Christmas Sock

Shaelyn Shawl

So, let’s see what 2012 brings. Hopefully, I will do as well in 2012.

Have a Happy and Healthy New Year!

I Love to Read

2011-12-31T09:09:00.001-05:00

Well, it’s my final list of books that I have read for 2011. I love to read or listen to books.

Crown Jewel – Fern Michaels

Maine – J. Courney Sullivan

Distant Shores – Kristin Hannah

Viola – In Reel Life – Adriana Trigiani

Queen Takes King – Gigi Levangie Grazier

Boardwalk Empire – Nelson Johnson

There’s Something About Christmas – Debbie Macomber

Here Come Trouble – Debbie Macomber

Christmas Treasures – Debbie Macomber

The Next Always – Nora Roberts

Patterns in the Sand – Sally Goldbaum

Explosive Eighteen – Janet Evanovitch

The Christmas Pearl – Dorothea Benton Frank

A Turn in the Road – Debbie Macomber

That makes 72 books read for the year. Well above my goal and the same amount I read last year. On to 2012!

Finishing and Casting On

2011-12-30T22:46:00.001-05:00

2011 is almost over and I am finishing up some projects and I started two new projects. I also keep adding projects to my to do list. That is bad.

I finished the December Mid Month KAL from my Dishcloth group. The pattern is Shades of Christmas by Janet Nogle. I used a size 7 needle with Peaches in Crème in Mistletoe and Red. I believe we did this pattern earlier in the year under another name. I liked it before, but really wasn’t too happy with the colors this time. It’s too red. But, it isn’t too bad.

I also finished the North Wind Hat I used a size 8 needle with Madelinetosh Vintage in tart. This pattern was really easy and I loved the yarn. I am just a Madelinetosh fan. I like this kind of hat because I can put all my hair into the hat and the band covers my ears. It feels as if it will be really warm. The only problem I had was that I ran out of yarn when I had 6 rows to go. Lucky for me, my LYS had one skein left and it matched. Since, I have most of the skein left, I plan on using the rest to kit up a pair of mittens. I will probably casting on for the mittens shortly (Another project on the needles – just what I need).

I had planned to make some Christmas socks, but because of the Christmas knitting I had to finish, I didn’t cast on these sock until a few days before Christmas. So, I won’t have them for this Christmas, but will have them for next Christmas. I am using String Theory Colorworks in Kinetic energy with a size one needle. I love this yarn because of the striping. I plan on doing an afterthought heel for these socks.

Lastly, I cast on for the Shaelyn shawl. The Knitting Pipeline group had this pattern as a KAL. It’s an easy pattern and I have been wanting to cast this on. I am using a size 8 needle with Madelinetosh Pashmina in the color grasshopper.

I had a really nice week this week. Getting ready for Christmas was so hectic and this week I really took the time to just relax and do what I wanted to do. I really needed it too. Next week, I start working. It will only be until mid February and it will only be two days a week. That isn’t too bad. So, I am going to enjoy the rest of my time off to knit and read.

Ready for Christmas?

2011-12-22T21:30:00.001-05:00

I’m about as ready as I can get. I have a few things to do, but I have all the presents I need and only have to wrap one more box. I finished my Christmas knitting today. Carter’s sweater is finished. I used the Button’s cardigan pattern with a size 5 needle and Dreambaby dk yarn in the color 0310. It feels so good to have finished this. The pattern was easy and it was great to knit this top down with no seaming.

My family will be here for Christmas Eve and I am looking forward to it. Tomorrow, I am going to my LYS to knit for me!

Yikes! Christmas is a week away

2011-12-18T21:44:00.001-05:00

I am into power knitting at this point. I did complete the Snowman rolled brimmed at for my great nephew Carter. Because the hat was small, I didn’t put in a mouth. I used a size 11 needle with Holiday Lights and Dreamland Fancy yarn in a white color. I think it got cute. I hope it fits him.

I also completed a hat for my husband. It’s called the Manly Man hat and I used a size 9 needle with Pur yarn in 1968ombre color way. This knit up fast.

Now, I just have to finish up Carter’s sweater. I did the sleeves and I’m finishing the body. I have 41 more rows to knit. I think I can make it until the end of the week. I figure that I need to knit 10 rows every day and I will have no problem finishing it.

I did get my last shipment from the CookieA sock club for 2011. The yarn is Bugga in the color Heuschrecke. I really enjoyed this club and did sign up for 2012. We also got a project bag with it.

Christmas is coming too fast

2011-12-10T19:36:00.001-05:00

Why is that? We run around like chickens with our heads cut off getting ready and it’s over in an instant. It also doesn’t help when you start last minute projects to try and finish in time.

At least I finished the dog puppet for Carter that I was working on. It came out really cute and I think he will love it. It came in a kit with Cotonade yarn in nutmeg and small pieces of black and red yarn (for the tongue). The pattern and yarn came in a kit. I used size 7 needles for this.

I started a Snowman Rolled Brim Hat for Carter as well. I finished the hat and did the eye (but have to attach them) and just need to knit the carrot nose. The hat also has a mouth, but since this is a toddler hat, there isn’t any room to put on the mouth, so I’m eliminating it. The yarn is Plymouth Dreamland Fancy in white and a half skein of Holiday Lights. Plus you need some black and orange yarn for the eyes (mouth) and nose. This was also in a kit. I used a size 11 needle for this hat.

I did finish the December Monthly Dishcloth KAL. The pattern is Tree of Christmas by Janet Nogle. I used Peaches and Crème in emerald green with a size 6 needle. The pattern called for a size 7, but I used a size 6.

I also started the North Wind Hat using Madelinetosh Vintage in the tart color. I love Madelinetosh. I am using a size 8 needle. This hat is for me and I’m not in a hurry to finish it by Christmas.

I do want to knit my husband a hat for Christmas, but he may have to wait until after Christmas to get it. The yarn I want to use is Pur by Schoppel Wolle. The color is 1968 ombre. The pattern I will use is called the Manly Man hat.

I still have to finish a baby sweater for Carter. I have one sleeve finished and will be starting on the second sleeve. After that is complete, it shouldn’t take long to finish.

I also bought another skein of Lorna’s Laces solemate in the pine colorway. Love this green and I love the yarn. I finally wore the first pair that I knit from the Cookie A sock club and I love them.

I couldn’t resist more Lorna’s Laces. I bought a skein of Shepard Sock and Worsted in the color Christmas Holly. This was a special color dyed for Serendipity Needle Works in Alabama. I won’t get anything knit with this for Christmas. But there is always next year.

Having a hard time getting in the Xmas mode

2011-11-29T22:16:00.001-05:00

I think it’s because the weather is warmer than normal. The high today was 62. It’s November 29th! It’s not suppose to be that warm! At least I started Christmas shopping. I bought one present and finished a knitted gift (see below).

I only bought two skeins of yarn since last time. I got Crofter’s DK by Sirdar (a Fair Isle effect yarn) to make a cool pattern that could either be a cowl or a hat. Now to just find the time to make it.

I did finish the Basic Sock using Gales Art yarn in Crayon box with a size 1 needle. I really loved this yarn. No pooling and I didn’t have to worry about trying to match both socks.

I also completed the November 2011 Mid Month KAL. The pattern was the Starburst cloth by Dione Reed. I used Peaches and Crème in Sunrise with a size 7 needle. This cloth got quite big. If I knit it again, I would knit it on a smaller needle, but the pattern was easy.

I completed a Christmas gift for my great nephew, Carter. It is a Wooly Wormhead hat called Doodie. I used Plymouth Dreambaby in a green color (0125) with a size 4 needle. This was an easy knit.

Now, I need to get knitting on a sweater for Carter. It’s started and I have about 1/3 rd of it completed. I also have to knit him a dog puppet, but that shouldn’t take long to do.

Too Much Yarn and too many WIP’s

2011-11-19T19:06:00.001-05:00

Yes, I keep buying yarn, but I keep finding projects that I want to make.

I was able to get two skeins of Numma Numma yarn in the last update even though I got there late. I got Red clay Mocha in Doppio and Baba Ganoush in Toasty. I couldn’t pass up the name Baba Ganoush, so I had to buy it.

Then I bought more Spud and Chloe Sweater from the Loopy Ewe to make animals by Susan B. Anderson. I got a green (7502) and blue (7520). I am going to start with the blue first and make a hippo.

From the Knitter’s Edge, I got Encore Chunky in green and gray to make a chula hat and Debbie Bliss Cashmerino in color 300014 (dark purple) to make a Slouchy hat called North Wind by Sweet Georgia Brown.

I did cast on two projects. I am knitting a Wooly Wormhead hat called Doodie for my great nephew. I am using Plymouth Dreambaby in color 0125 (green). This should match the sweater I am making him.

Here is a picture of the Min Ulla Scarf that I started last week. I am using Madelinetosh Pashmina in Moorland (green) and Antique Lace. This is the first time I am knitting a project with two colors of yarn. Wish me luck. I am using size 4 needles.

Now, I have 7 active projects on the needles and plan to cast on three more. I was doing really good and got caught up on many old projects. Here I go again, project barf. I keep having to buy more needles to knit these projects! Hopefully, I will get get quite a few of them completed before the end of the year. Wish me luck!

Christmas Songs on the Radio?

2011-11-12T11:15:00.001-05:00

Can you believe it? Yesterday, driving to my knitting group, I was listening to Christmas songs on the radio. I was thinking, nooooooo, it’s too soon. I haven’t wrapped my brain around Christmas yet. But, it’s coming soon and I am not nearly ready.

I have worked on some knitting projects this past week. I finished the November KAL for my dishcloth group. The pattern is A Peacock for Tunie by Elaine Fitzpatrick. Silly me thought it was a turkey. I used Peaches and Crème in teal with a size 6 needle.

I also finished one sock using Gales Art in crayon box using a basic sock pattern with a size 1 needle. I love how this sock knit up.

Then, I worked on a sweater for my great nephew, Carter. I am using the Buttons Cardigan pattern #606 with Dreambaby yarn in color 0310 (a tweed color in green) with a size 5 needle.

I also started on a colorwork pattern. It’s my first one! Pictures and information coming next week, I hope.

Yarn, Yarn and More Yarn

2011-11-11T19:19:00.001-05:00

I have been poking around Ravelry. While I love Ravelry but, poking around Ravelry isn’t a good thing because I have been finding more and more projects to knit and more yarn to buy for these projects.

I wanted to get a couple of more skeins of Hazel Knits Artisan Sock yarn, so I broke down and purchased 3 more skeins in the colors: Beachglass, Bronzeage, and Loosey Juicy. I will use these for socks or shawls.

Then I purchased some yarn from the Loopy Ewe.

From top to bottom, I got Alisha Goes Around Tracks of Bison in wine and Panoply of Peacocks in Estuary. Then I got two skeins of Madelinetosh Pashmina in Grasshopper (the color did not photograph well, it’s more green than yellow). I plan on using the Pashmina for the Shaelyn shawl. On the sides, you will see Spud and Chole in gray and white to make some animals designed by Susan B. Anderson. I signed up for the Wee One’s online class on the Craftsy web site.

Today, when I went to knitting at the Knitter’s Edge, I picked up more yarn. I got Fantasy Naturale in Color 2550 (marine blue) and 5228 (green) to make some bibs by Laura Treadway.

And, I bought some DK weight baby yarn in Plymouth Dreambaby (color 0125 –green) and Sirdar Crofters (color 0152 – blue) to make a couple of the Doodie hats by Woolly Wormhead.

Now, I just have to get moving and start to knit.

We have snow…a Northeaster in October?

2011-10-29T19:21:00.001-05:00

Yes, it did snow today. Don’t know how much we got so far, but it didn’t accumulate much on the roads yet. I don’t know what will happen over night. We might have freezing that could make the roads really bad. But I don’t have to go anywhere, so it’s okay.

I have been buying yarn for projects that I want to make:

Fantasy Naturale in color 2674 (blue). I used this to make a bib and I want to make a washcloth too.

I also got it in color 8414 (grey) to make the washcloth called the Nineteen Hundred House.

I got my shipment of Hazelknits Artisan sock yarn. I love this yarn and I do want to get more colors. From top to bottom, Shady Verdant, Violeta, and Blueberry.

I bought Plymouth yarn’s Dreambaby in the color 0310. It’s a Green Tweedish yarn that I want to use to make a sweater for my Great Nephew for Christmas.

I also got a skein of the Sanguine Gryphon’s Bugga in Pink Katydid. I had this color from their Valentine kit and made a sock out of it. I really loved it and one of my knitting friends had an extra skein that I bought from her.

Sanguine Gryphon is disbanding and forming two new companies. I have mixed feelings about this and will be interested in how this plays out. So sad. But, I have more than enough of their yarn.

Snow? In October?

2011-10-27T19:10:00.001-05:00

Yes, we will possibly have snow this weekend. Four to six inches. I am NOT ready for snow. It’s still too early.

The best thing about snow is that I may knit more. I have been knitting many small projects. Like…….

The October Mid Month KAL from my Yahoo group. The pattern is the Twisted Rib cable pattern from Knitwits Alley. I used Peaches and Creame in shrimp with a size 6 needle. I liked this pattern.

Then I finished the Lizard Ridge Dishcloth. I’ve seen this pattern before, but finally tried to knit it. It was worth it to learn Wrap and Turn. It took me awhile and a lot of frogging, but I finally got the hang of it. I used Sugar and Cream in Beach Ball with a size 6 needle. I would like to knit another of these and then maybe do an afghan using Noro Kureyon.

I also knit a bib for my great nephew Carter. He likes trucks and his first birthday is coming up soon. I enjoyed knitting this pattern. It’s called Trucking along by Elaine Fitzpatrick. I used Fantasy Naturale in a blue colorway. I liked the Fantasy Naturale for this knit because I felt that the pattern really popped with this yarn.

I completed my Witches socks. Just in time for Halloween. I used String Theory Colorworks in the electron colorway with a size 1 needle. I used the afterthought heel for this sock.

Then I started another basic sock using Gales Art yarn in crayon box. I am also using a size 1 needle for this sock.

Well, the temperature has been dropping. I guess I need to get my snow shovel out. Drat!

Slow knitting week

2011-10-14T19:04:00.001-05:00

Not much knitting going on here this week. I’m still working on the second witch’s sock. I am at the foot of the second sock. I hope to finish it next week. I am close to finishing the hood on my central park hoodie. Next will be the band on the sweater. I will be happy when this is complete.

I did get some yarn this week. I got Madelinetosh Pashmina in Antique Lace and Moorland to make the Min Ulla scarf. This will be a challenge as this will be the first time I will be using two different colors of yarn to make a pattern. Wish me luck!

The Loopy Ewe had a Wollmeise update and I was lucky to get three skeins. I got the following colors from top to bottom: Im dunklen Wald, Chim chim chimney, and Lila Ludmilla. This is the 100% merino, which I like the best.

Well, off to knit a few rows on my sweater. I want to finish the hood before tomorrow, so I can get help with the next phase at my knitting group.

Yarn and Books

2011-10-08T11:55:00.001-05:00

I got my Cookie A sock club yarn for October. It’s Fleece Artist Silky wool in pewter. It’s a nice grey. I’m not sure if I will knit the patterns offered with this yarn. The nice thing about this club is that I am getting yarns I don’t have or haven’t tried. Even though grey is not a color I might have picked, I think I am going to like this yarn. One more shipment to go for the year and I will definitely sign up for another year.

I also bought Sirdar’s Smiley Stripe yarn in color SH261 to make a premie hat.

I have 6 more books to read until the end of the year to meet my goal of 65 and 13 more books to read until I reach the number that I read last year (72). I think I can make it.

The most recent one’s I have read are:

Crash Course by Kathy Hogan Trocheck

South of Broad by Pat Conroy – I really enjoyed this book.

What we Keep by Elizabeth Berg

Same Sweet Girls by Cassandra King – This was also a good one.

The Summer Hideaway by Susan Wiggs

Open House by Elizabeth Berg

Between Sisters by Kristen Hannah

Folly Beach by Dorothea Benton Frank – another of my favorite authors.

The Twenty-First Wish by Debbie Macomber

Coming Unraveled by Susan Mallery

Return to Summer Island by Christina Skye

Marrying Daisy Bellamy by Susan Wiggs

Dead and Gone by Charlaine Harris

How to Knit a Heart back Home by Rachael Herron

Final Jeopardy by Linda Fairstein

1105 Yakima St by Debbie Macomber

We are All Welcome Here by Elizabeth Berg

Goddess of Vengeance by Jackie Collins

Magic Hour by Kristin Hannah – really enjoyed this

Groom Wanted by Debbie Macomber

Bride Wanted by Debbie Macomber

I really did well on my goals this year. Hope I can keep it up until the end of the year.

It’s October?

2011-10-07T21:04:00.001-05:00

Where does the time go? Before you know it, we will be getting ready for Christmas. I can’t believe it!

I haven’t been knitting much in the last two weeks, but I have made some progress on projects. I did complete the October KAL for my Monthly Dishcloth group. The pattern is Skies of New York by Janet Nogle. I used a size 6 needle with Peaches and Crème in light blue. This is a nice pattern.

I finished one sock (except for the afterthought heel) of my Halloween socks that I am calling Witch’s socks. The yarn is String Theory Continuum in the electron colorway with a size 1 needle. I love this yarn.

I finally got the sleeves finished for my Central Park Hoodie. All pieces are now knitted.

I do have to knit the hood, which I am working on now and then it’s the bands and putting the sweater together. This will be my first sweater that is completed. I will be so happy when it’s finished. I am using size 8 needles with Tatamy Tweed worsted yarn in purple. I like the yarn, but it is a little splitty.

I seem to working on these two projects the most when I am knitting. I hope to have both completed by the end of October.

Another sock bites the dust

2011-09-22T17:28:00.001-05:00

I finished the Abstract Fiber sock in the koi pond colorway using a size 1 needle. I really like this sock yarn. I love the colors.

Since Halloween is coming, I had to knit a Halloween sock. I am using String Theory colorworks in the electron colorway. I am just using a basic sock pattern for this sock with a size 1 needle. I plan on knitting an afterthought heel. I love the colors. I am calling this my witch sock.

I also finished the September Mid Month KAL for my Monthly dishcloth group. The pattern is Dishcloth Panel Dishcloth by Emily Jagos. I did not use a knitted or crocheted border on this. I did use a size 6 needle with Peaches and Crème in yellow.

I am knitting away on my Central Park Hoodie. I really need to get this finished. I am almost finished with the first sleeve and hope to start the second sleeve tomorrow. It would be nice to wear it this fall and winter.

Some socks are a challenge

2011-09-17T22:14:00.001-05:00

I finished 3 pairs of socks that had patterns. They weren’t real complicated. When you knit a patterned sock, you have to concentrate because of the change in stitches in the rows. After knitting 3 patterned socks, I decided I needed a break and picked a basic sock pattern using Abstract Fiber’s supersock in the koi pond colorway using a size 1 needle. This sock was more of a challenge than the patterned socks.

When knitting the leg, I dropped a stitch and had to rip back to get the correct stitches on the needle. Then I got to the heel flap and dropped a stitch. I had to rip back again to the beginning of the heel flap and start over. Then I got to the leg and yes, I dropped a stitch again. This time, I had to rip back to the leg and start again with the heel flap. Thank goodness three times was the charm and now I have finished the first sock. I don’t know if it was me or the new ChiaoGoo red lace needles that I was using. Go figure.

I love the yarn and the colorway of the socks.

My local yarn shop finally got in some Lorna’s Laces Solemate yarn and I bought a skein in the Vera colorway. I just have to pick a patterned sock to knit with this yarn.

It’s a wonderful knitting world

2011-09-14T17:31:00.001-05:00

Well, it’s been a nice week so far. The weather has been great, I had time to spend with friends, and I was able to get a lot accomplished around the house (including knitting).

I finished the Capucine hat. This was a wonderful knit. It was a very easy pattern and I loved the yarn. I used Noro Kogarashi in color 10 with a size 10 needle. The yarn is silk and wool. It was a very fast knit. I knit the hat in one day and did the tassels later. I may just do another one of these. This will keep my head and ears warm this winter. It makes a big difference when you love the yarn you are using.

I finally blocked the Sugared Violets Shawl. I used size 6 needles with The Sanguine Gryphon’s Traveler yarn in Gaudi House. I really love this shawl.

I couldn’t resist buying some yarn this week. I got Bugga yarn from the Sanguine Gryphon. Colors are Blue Emperor Dragonfly, Autumn Tiger Beetle, and Tulip Tree Beauty.

I was also able to get yarn from the Numma Numma update last Friday. She had a new yarn called Happy Hour, which is 50% wool and 50% silk. I got two skeins in that base: Anise and Julep. I couldn’t resist a skein of the Usual in After Dinner Mint. You can tell that I like the color green and I am beginning to love silk mixed with wool.

I am working hard to get the basic sock completed using Abstract Fiber in time for the end of Summer of Socks 2011. Only problem is that I keep dropping stitches. Hopefully, I am back on track. Off to try and finish one sock tonight.

Finally the rain is over….I think

2011-09-10T18:53:00.001-05:00

We had so many days of rain lately and the sun finally came out on Friday. Fortunately, we didn’t have any problems, but many people lost power for several days. Now that it’s September, I guess that we will have some hot and humid days to look forward to.

I have been busy knitting. I finished the Sugared Violets shawl, but haven’t blocked it yet. Pictures coming after I block it this weekend. I also completed the September Dishcloth KAL. The pattern is There’ no place like home by Sue Schaeffer. I used Peaches and Crème yarn in verde green with a size 6 needle.

I also completed the Froggie Bath Puppet. This is so cute and fun to make. I made it for my great nephew. I used Cotonade in color 531 (a lime green) from a kit I got at the Knitter’s Edge with a size 7 needle.

I started a basic sock pattern sock using Abstract Fiber Supersock in the color koi pond with a size 1 needle. I love this yarn and how it knits up.

I also started another shawl. It’s the Copykat shawl, but I am knitting a plain version with Swans Island merino yarn in marine blue with a size 5 needle.

I also bought some yarn from the Knitter’s Edge for some quick hat patterns. I got Katia’s Fabula in color 91.

And I got a skein of Noro Kogarashi in color 10. I plan to cast on the needles with this yarn tomorrow. The hat is really cute. Can’t wait to post the finished picture.

Hope we have beautiful weather this week. I think we deserve it.

Irene is visiting us

2011-08-27T18:26:00.001-05:00

Well, batten down the hatches. Irene is coming. We are ready here. We are suppose to get rain and wind, but not as severe as New Jersey and New York. Let’s see what happens. I am more concerned about losing power, but we are prepared for that.

I finished the Daphne socks from the Cookie A sock club. I used size 1 needles with a Verb for keeping warm Metamorphosis yarn in sugar jets. This yarn has silk in it. It is a sport weight. I was pleasantly surprised that I enjoyed the yarn and may just buy more skeins.

I did start another sock using a basic sock pattern. After three pairs of cookiea sock’s, I think I need a break.

I also completed the August Midmonth KAL from my Monthly Dishcloth group. The pattern is Summer Daze by Alli Barrett. I used Peaches and Crème yarn in the light grape color with size 6 needles.

I also started a frog puppet. I thought I would make it for my great nephew. Let’s see how this knit goes.

Yard Sale

2011-08-20T17:42:00.001-05:00

We had a three family yard sale today and I am exhausted. I did pretty well and most of the stuff I had left over, I took to a local church for their sale. It was wonderful to get rid of that stuff.

I was worried about the weather. I was afraid it would rain. The day started off foggy, but the sun came out and it turned hot. So glad that is over with.

I did finish one of the Cookiea’s Daphne socks from the sock club. The yarn is Metamorphosis from a verb for keeping warm. This is a sport weight yarn and has silk in it. I wasn’t sure how I would like knitting with it, but it’s not bad and I like how the pattern is turning out. The color is Sugar Jets and I used a size 1 needle.

Still working on the Sugared Violets shawl, but I did buy more yarn.

I purchased some Plucky Knitter single ply merino in the color Barndoor.

One of my knitting friends bought some of Sanguine Gryphon’s Mithral lace weight yarn and I loved what she knit. So, I had to buy some for myself. I got a skein of The Reader and Paesaggio a Bordighera.

I love Madelinetosh’s Pashmina yarn, so I bought 3 skeins to make the Sothia shawl. I got 2 skeins of Cloak and 1 skein of Antique Lace.

I’m not knitting the Stephen West Mystery shawl after all. I waited to see some of the spoiler pictures and I am not thrilled with the pattern. I don’t believe that I would wear the shawl, so I’m not wasting good yarn on something I won’t use just to participate in a Mystery KAL. I am really disappointed. I loved the Daybreak shawl so much and plan on knitting another.

Off to knit and then relax for the rest of the day.

Summer of Cookie A Socks

2011-08-13T12:10:00.001-05:00

I finished the second pair of socks using a pattern from the Cookiea sock club. Honestly, this is the best club. The patterns are great and the yarn is wonderful. The yarn is Hazelknits Artisan sock in Oh my darling. The pattern is by cookiea and is called Jubilee sock. I used a size 1 needle.

I started on the August sock from this club. The pattern is called Daphne sock. Yarn is by A verb for keeping warm. It’s Metamorphosis in the color sugar jets. I am using size 1 needles. Since this is a sport weight yarn, I cast on 60 stitches for the medium size.

I also finished the August KAL from my dishcloth group. The pattern is by Elaine Fitzpatrick and is called Baby Seahorse. I used Peaches in Crème yarn in the color Persimmon with a size 5 needle.

The Loopy Ewe got Swans Island fingering merino yarn in stock. At first I thought, no way. Then I checked out the web site and looked on Ravelry and I caved. I bought two skeins in the Marine colorway to make a shawl. It is so soft.

My new favorite sock yarn!

2011-08-06T15:35:00.001-05:00

It’s Hazel knits Artisan sock. I got a skein of oh my darling from the Cookiea sock club and I’m knitting the Jubilee sock pattern. The yarn is so soft. It’s not splitty and very easy to knit. Here is is one sock completed.

I do have some of this yarn, but haven’t used it so far. But, I did buy a skein of Sweet Crush from the Loopy Ewe. I couldn’t resist the color.

The August shipment of the Cookiea sock club came this week. I got another skein of yarn that I never had before. It’s a Verb for Keeping Warm, Metamorphosis yarn in Sugar jets. I already know which pattern I will be knitting. I plan on knitting it after I finish the Jubilee sock. I love this sock club!

I also bought Sanguine Gryphon’s skinny bugga in The very hungry caterpillar.

And, I couldn’t resist these knitting kits from my local yarn shop. I think the puppets will make great gifts.

Cookiea

2011-07-30T08:52:00.001-05:00

I love cookiea designs and her socks fit me well. I am so glad that I joined her first sock club. The patterns are great and the yarns are super. The first patterned sock I made was the monkey sock pattern designed by her.

I finished the Boysenberry Yo socks. I used a size 1 needle with Solemate in Boyesenberry Jam color way. Solemate is a great yarn and I will definitely buy more of it. Can’t wait to wear them.

I started the next sock by Cookiea called Jubilee socks. I am using size 1 needles with Hazel Knits artisan sock yarn in the color Oh my darling. I am not a fan of orange, but I love this color. It’s more like a creamsicle color.

Next shipment from the sock club is due in early August and I can’t wait. I’m predicting Socktopia yarn. Let’s see what happens.

I am still working on the Sugared Violets shawl. This is an easy knit. I am using size 6 needles with Sanguine Gryphon’s Travelor in Gaudi House. I love the colors.

I am using the Signature circular’s and I really love them. The cable is 32 inches and I find that with the longer cable, it’s easier to use the longer size needle. So, I got 6 inch needles instead of 5 inch. Signature is suppose to be coming out with smaller size needles (size 1 and 2) and I can’t wait to get them for sock knitting. I am hoping that they will make two different size 1’s and 2’s to distinguish what needle you are working on when using circulars to knit socks.

So Many Projects…Can I find the time?

2011-07-28T18:58:00.001-05:00

I have been buying more yarn. I can’t stop myself since I have projects I want to knit.

I am planning on joining the Stephen West Mystery KAL that starts on August 1st. So, I bought Madelinetosh pashmina in tern, nebula and steamage. I just love the colors.

I also got Bugga from the Sanguine Gryphon in Bog Fritillary and Cowkiller. Possibly for another Daybreak shawl or another Stephen West project.

Finally, I bought Koigu KPPPM to knit a linen stitch scarf. The colors are: P123A, P401, P304, and P6308.

Now, I just have to find the time. I am almost finished with my Boysenberry Yo socks and I’m still working on the Sugared Violets Shawl. I think I am going to knit the Cookie A Jubilee socks next from her sock club using the Hazelknits yarn in Oh my darling. I need to wind the yarn tonight.

I did finish the July Mid Month Dishcloth KAL. The pattern is Sea Waves by Andi Worthy in Peaches and Crème peacock. I used a size 7 needle.

Off to knit…..

The dog days of summer have arrived

2011-07-18T08:31:00.001-05:00

It’s going to be hot this week. Guess, I will spend my time knitting inside. This past week was a fixit week. We had Sears in to fix our icemaker for the refrigerator and a plumber in to fix our powder room toilet and we had to get a new water heater. I finally have hot water…..thank God!

I finished the Daybreak shawl by Stephen West. I really enjoyed this knit and really loved the yarn. It is so soft. I used size 4 needles with Turtlepurl Softshell Turtle toes in the coloways Kiping at Camp and Haeyyy!

In fact, I liked the pattern so much that I bought Skinny Bugga in Common Emerald Moth and Bess Beetle to do another one.

However, I won’t be starting this right away. I already started another shawl called Sugared Violets by Rose Beck and I plan on participating in the Stephen West Mystery KAL that starts on August 1st.

I also completed the July 2011 Dishcloth KAL. The pattern was Heart and Moss by Janet Nogle. I used Peaches and Crème cotton in red with a size 7 needle.

I am finished with one Boysenberry Yo sock by Cookie A. I am using size 1 needles in Solemate by Lorna’s Laces in the boysenberry jam color way. I highly recommend the yarn and I love the color and pattern. Can’t wait to get more. My local yarn shop is getting this yarn.

Well, I better get my cleaning in before it gets too hot. Stay cool where ever you are.

Twenty-five more books to go to reach my Goal

2011-07-09T19:46:00.001-05:00

Well, I finally am back on track with my reading goal for 2011. I have been reading like crazy.

Time of My Life by Allison Winn Scotch

Dreamlovers by Dodd Darin – brings back old times of the beach movies and oldies songs

Dewey by Vicki Myron – a great pet story

On Christmas Eve by Thomas Kinkade and Katherine Spencer

The Girl who chased the Moon by Sarah Addison Allen – wonderful book

Say When by Elizabeth Berg

The Peach Keeper by Sarah Addison Allen

Garden Spells by Sarah Addison Allen – guess you can tell I like her books

House at Riverton by Kate Morton

Summer and the City by Candace Bushwell

Comfort and Joy by Kristin Hannah

Talk Before Sleep by Elizabeth Berg

Winter Garden by Kristin Hannah

How to Knit a Love Song by Rachael Herron

Until the Real Thing Comes Along by Elizabeth Berg

Sex and the City by Candace Bushnell – didn’t like this as much as the other two books

The Wedding Promise by Thomas Kinkade and Katherine Spencer

Are You There Vodka, It’s Me Chelsea by Chelsea Handler – liked it better than I thought I would and almost considered getting her other books, but got tired of the stories by the end of the book.

The Help by Kathryn Stockett – Great Book!

The Land of Mango Sunsets by Dorothea Benton Frank – I love this author

Lavender Morning by Jude Deveraux

Never Change by Elizabeth Berg

Lickety Split by Kathy Hogan Trocheck

License to Pawn by Rick Harrison – interesting read

Crisis by Robin Cook

Smokin Seventeen by Janet Evanovitch – love these books and can’t wait for the next one.

Unraveled by Maggie Sefton – Love this series too and I’m looking forward to the next one. Why can’t authors write fast enough?

Enjoying my knitting projects

2011-07-02T21:12:00.001-05:00

Yes, I am enjoying my knitting projects. I haven’t finished anything this week, but I am making progress on several projects.

I got past the heel on the Boysenberry Yo socks (a Cookiea pattern) with size 1 needles and Lornas Laces Solemate in the Boysenberry Jam color.

I’m happy with the Olivia Sweater I am knitting. The pattern is by Berroco. I started this sweater back in 2004, but it was too big. So, I frogged it and started over. I am past the ribbing on the back. I am using size 10 needles for the body of the sweater with Araucania Nature Wool Chunky in an orange colorway. Hopefully, I will finish this by September.

Then, I am also working on the Daybreak pattern by Stephen West. I am using size 4 needles with Turtlepurl yarn Soft Shell Turtletoes in Kipping at camp and Haeyyy! I am currently working on the stripes and I’m loving this pattern as well as the yarn.

I got more Socktopus Sokkusu yarn from the Loopy Ewe in lime and basi and pinkly.

From the Knitter’s Edge (my lys), I got a cotton yarn on sale called Cotonade by Knit One Crochet Too. I got one skein in a lime green and 5 skeins in a purple colorway. I plan on knitting a market bag with the purple yarn.

Hope everyone has a Happy 4th of July! I also hope you are enjoying your summer.

It was a good week

2011-06-25T08:12:00.001-05:00

I got a lot of things accomplished this week. It’s nice having the house all straightened up. Now, I am chipping away at small little things. I found a box of yarn I had purchased years and years ago. Most of it was acrylic and I know that I won’t use it so I gave it to someone who would make good use of it.

I also found a bunch of needlework kits. Some I put aside to keep, some to sell and some to throw away. I found a bunch of macramé yarn. This I decided to keep. You never know when I might want to make something with it.

Last week, we had some work done on our front yard. Stones placed around the edging of the flower beds and grass replanted.

We now have grass.

On the knitting front, I completed the Lorna’s Laces Jungle Stripe sock. I used a basic sock pattern with an afterthought heel and a size 1 needle. Purple and Green are my favorite colors.

Also finished is the June Mid Month KAL from my dishcloth group. The pattern is called Little Tweet by Elaine Fitzpatrick. I used Peaches and Crème yarn in light green with a size 6 needle.

I started on another sock using the yarn I got from the Cookie A sock club. The yarn is Lorna’s Laces Solemate in boysenberry jam. The pattern is Boysenberry Yo. I am using a size 1 needle. The yarn is really nice and I love the color. My local yarn shop is going to get some of this yarn in, so I wanted to try it out in advance. I will definitely buy another skein (or two).

And, I started the Daybreak Shawl by Stephen West. I am using Turtlepurl Softshell Turtle toes in Kiping at camp and Haeyy with a size 4 needle. I started this last week, but had to start over as I wasn’t following the directions…now I am on track. The yarn is nice and soft.

This week, I also frogged an old project. It was the Olivia sweater that I started as my first knitting project back in 2004. First of all it is too big on me now and second, I have learned a lot about knitting and can make it better. So, yesterday, I cast on again for a smaller size sweater. I will post pictures next week.

I feel really great that I know have my knitting projects under control. I now have only 7 projects on the needles. That is much better than the 24 I had at the beginning of the year, don’t you think?

I did get a skein of yarn in this week. I really wanted to try Three Ewes Twisted in Fiber in a striped yarn, so I got a green and grey colorway.

Frogging an unfinished sweater

2011-06-17T21:23:00.001-05:00

The Swan Lake stole is blocked. Yippee!

I also finished the Minnie Scarf by Jumpers Cable Knitting. I used Manos del Uruguay silk blend in color 300A with a size 7 needle. This was an easy and enjoyable knit.

Today I started the Daybreak pattern by Steven West. I’m having a heck of a time getting the M1L and M1R’s correct on the knit and purl side. Once I finish this project, I will be a Make one expert!

Loopy Ewe had an update this week and offered Socktopus Sokkusu yarn. Of course, I couldn’t resist getting the jammy dodger and ayame colors.

After some deep thought, I decided today that I was going to frog the first sweater that I was knitting. I never completed it but planned on finishing it; however, it’s way to big for me now. So, maybe over this weekend, I will rip it out and rewind the yarn. I like the pattern and the yarn, so I plan on knitting it again in a smaller size after I complete the Central Park Hoodie. I started this back in 2004 and have learned a lot about knitting since then, so I think if I reknit it in a smaller size, it will knit up faster. So rip it, rip it, rip it…….

Mystery Stole Complete!

2011-06-11T20:09:00.001-05:00

Another old WIP completed. I finished the wing on the Mystery Stole. Boy do I feel relieved. I had some bumps along the road, but I got through it. The wing looks kind of cool.

The pattern is by Melanie Gibbons and is called Swan Lake. I used a size 4 needle with Jaggerspun zephyr yarn in ebony. Here is the completed stole unblocked.

I also completed the June Monthly Dishcloth KAL. The pattern is Bluebonnet by Lindy. I used a size 6 needle with Peaches and Crème in Williamsburg Blue.

One sock is complete using Lornas Laces Shepherd Sock in the Jungle Stripe colorway using a size 1 needle. I didn’t finish the heel since I am going to use an afterthought heel. I will do both heels after I finish the second sock. I love purple and green.

I was happy to get the June shipment of the Cookie A sock club. The yarn is Hazel Knits Artisan Sock in the color Oh My Darling. I love it. We got two sock patterns with it and of course cookie recipes. I am really enjoying this club and plan on joining again.

I had to buy a new sock yarn. It’s from Three Ewes Twisted in Fiber Sock for Ewe in the saltwater taffy color way. I like the colors. This is a variegated yarn, but, she does have striped yarn too and I did order another skein in a stripe. Her colors are really nice.

Right now, I am just working on the the Jungle Stripe sock and the Minnie Scarf. I want to get these two projects finished and then try another shawl/scarf. There are so many wonderful patterns out there. I just have to decide what pattern I want to knit first….. decisions, decisions.

The Sun is Shining and the Heat is ON

2011-06-01T11:34:00.001-05:00

And I am not going to complain. I love to see the sun and I’m glad it’s not raining.

I haven’t completed anything in this last week. I am diligently working on the Mystery Stole/Swan Lake. I will be so glad when this is complete. So, I have been plugging away. I had an knitting attack’s episode and had to rip back to a lifeline (about 20 some rows), but now I am back to where I had the problem and have my mojo back. I have about 69 more rows to go. So I am about half way finished with this section.

I needed some mindless knitting, so I started another sock using Lornas Laces Shepherd Sock in Jungle Stripe using size 1 needles. It’s a green and purple stripe with a basic sock pattern and I plan on trying the afterthought heel on this sock too.

I only purchased one skein of yarn. I saw a finished shawl using the Sugared Violets pattern by Rose Beck and I loved the pattern and the yarn. So, I bought Sanguine Gryphon’s Little Traveller in Gaudi House.

Well, back to knitting the stole. I hope to get at least 12 more rows completed today.

Rain, Rain Go Away for awhile, please?

2011-05-22T19:24:00.001-05:00

After a beautiful Saturday, the dreary, rainy days are back. When will it end. I guess the best thing about the weather is that I am getting quite a bit of knitting time in.

I had 200 rows on the mystery stole to finish and have completed 50 rows. It’s all coming back to me now. I need to knit this in a quiet environment, count out loud, have good lighting (an ott light), and magnifier glasses (I am using 3.0). The reason is that I am using black lace yarn. What was I thinking? I also put in a life line after 50 rows. So, I’m one quarter complete. Sounds good, but the rows keep growing by 2 stitches on every other row. So, I will be up to close to 200 stitches on the needles until I am finished. Right now I am at 54 stitches. I will take a picture after I get finished with the next 50 rows.

I did complete the Abstract Fiber sock in the sweet pea color using size 1 needles. I really, really liked this yarn. I must get more.

I also finished the Mid May 2011 Monthly dishcloth KAL. The pattern is Fruited Plains by Andi Worthy. I used Peaches in Crème in the mauve color way with size 7 needles.

I wasn’t planning on it, but I also picked up the ripple afghan I was working on and started on it again. Maybe after finishing the mystery stole, I can crochet away on this the rest of the summer. I just might surprise myself and get this finished yet. Good thing that the world didn’t end on Saturday.

Well, Numma Numma is back from Mexico and had her last update until September. So I bought more yarn. I love her yarn. I got The Special (a fingering weight yarn) in the WiFi colorway and I got the Usual in Table for Two, Manager’s Choice and Stump Brew.

Off to knit on the Minnie scarf and play Words with Friends. That is addicting!

New Project and it’s not a sock

2011-05-18T18:34:00.001-05:00

I finally started a new knitting project that is not a sock. I am knitting the Minnie scarf (also goes by the name of Bobble scarf) by Jumpers Cable knitting. I am using Manos Silky Blend in color 300A (a blue color). I love this yarn. I am also using a size 7 needle. The scarf is a sideways scarf and is easy to knit. This is the first time I am using the new version of the Signature Cable needle and I love it. The cable is really nice and so are the needles.

I finally finished my Chevron Scarf that I started in March of 2007. I used Blue Moon Fiber Arts yarn in Watermelon Tourmaline and Farmhouse with a size 5 needle. I have blocked the scarf and it blocked at over 80 inches. So, it’s a nice size scarf. I am very happy with this. I love the colors.

So, I am down to the following old projects that I need to finish:

1. Central Park Hoodie

2. Mystery Stole – which is my next project to finish

3. Olivia Sweater

4. Ripple Afghan

5. Afghan Squares from the Great American Afghan. - I really only started this in November and only did about 2 or 3 rows on the first square.

The rest of the projects that I have on the needles are newer projects that I have been working on. I figure that I will finish the Mystery Stole and then start working on the Central Park Hoodie again in September. I am feeling really good about my goals for 2011.

I have also finished the first Abstract Fiber sock in Sweet Pea and cast on for the second sock. I am using size 1 needles. I just love this yarn.

It’s really nice not working. I am getting a lot of things done around the house and a lot of knitting done. I am certainly NOT bored.

The rain is back

2011-05-14T13:02:00.001-05:00

It was such a lovely week this week. The sun was out and it was warm. Beautiful spring days until Friday when it was overcast all day and now today with the rain. It makes it cooler outside, so I can’t sit on my porch. Darn!

I have gotten further with my Abstract Fiber sock. I really, really like this yarn and the colors. I will definitely get more of their yarn. The color is Sweet Pea with size 1 needles. I am past the heel and on my way to the toe to finish up one sock.

I also knit on Cat Bordhi Ocean Toes sock. I really had trouble with this pattern. I had to rip it back many times, but finally got to the designated rows by Friday. This week we are taking a break since everyone has not gotten to that point and I am so glad. I need a break from this sock. I am using size 3 needles with Crock-O-Dye yarn in color 559 (a seafoam green). I am not liking the yarn. It’s nice and soft but is fuzzing up. Not happy with that. It isn’t helping that I am having problems with the pattern and I’m not happy with the yarn. But, I will plod on and finish it.

Still working on the Chevron scarf. I have about 20 inches more to do and hopefully, I will be able to finish it within the next week or two.

I got the Loopy Ewe’s Mother’s Day kit. The yarn is Studio June’s Super Cash Sock in the color Beach Glass. Nice yarn! It also came with a project tote and cute flowered tape measure.

The Turtlepurl yarn I ordered came. This is Softshell turtle toes in Kiping at camp and Haeeyyy. Love the yarn. I plan on using this for a Daybreak Shawl.

And, I finally got another skein of Wollmeise lacegarn in the color Fliederbrusch. Isn’t it pretty. Lot’s of yardage on this one.

Off to knit on the chevron scarf.

Happy Mother’s Day

2011-05-08T17:55:00.001-05:00

Happy Mother’s Day. It was a beautiful day out today. The sun was out and it was warm out. I got to sit on my back porch. Maggie loved it. She is so happy to be outside again.

Finished my Twisted Limone socks with the afterthought heel. This worked out well and I’m glad I tried it. I used Tangy sock in Fruit Salad with size 1 needles. I will definitely use this heel with other striping sock yarns.

Then I started a basic sock pattern using Abtract Fiber Supersock in the color Sweet Pea and a size 1 needle. I really like how this yarn feels and I love the color. It shows up lighter on the picture, but it really is a darker green.

I also finished the Monthly Dishcloth May KAL. The pattern is Ulysses the Unicorn by Janet Nogle. I used Peaches and Crème in gold with size 6 needles.

Still working on the chevron scarf and did very little knitting on the Mystery Stole 3. I’m feeling really good though that I have completed a lot of old projects.

Cast on for a Cat Bordhi sock called Ocean Toes. Two of my other knitting friends are also working on this sock. I haven’t gotten very far, so no picture. We want to have the leg of the first sock completed by Friday so I guess I have to get moving.

Off to knit!

Still finishing old projects

2011-05-02T08:52:00.001-05:00

I am so glad to have finished my stuffed mittens. I had finished the first one years ago and finally started on the second mitten recently. I used Kraemer’s Summit Hill yarn in blue quartz with size 4 and 6 needles. Stuffing the mittens was okay, but I don’t think I will make this pattern again.

Also completed this weekend was my third prayer shawl. I liked the Marble Chunky yarn so much, I had to make another one. The color is MC 16 (a gold colorway) using size 13 needles.

I finished the April Mid Month dishcloth KAL. I enjoyed this one. I used Peaches and Crème in Bright Navy and Shades of Spring with size 6 needles. The pattern is the Stained Glass cloth by Lindy.

Still working on my Twisted Limone socks. I have started the second sock and have placed my yarn for the afterthought heel. I am using Tangy sock in Fruit Salad with a size 1 needle.

Note the Chic a bag that is holding the yarn. I love this bag. It works great for holding a ball or cake of yarn. I hope to finish these socks by the end of the week as my friends and I are going to start a Cat Bordhi sock using her new sock book.

Since I finished the prayer shawl and mittens, I dug out the Mystery Stole 3 and Chevron scarf that I started in 2007. I only have to do the wing on the Mystery Stole, so it shouldn’t take too long to complete, but I am really knitting this slowly so I don’t make a mistake. I need to knit this at home without any distractions. I am about a third complete on the Chevron scarf and think that I can finish this pretty soon too.

For the Chevron scarf, I am using Socks that Rock yarn in Farmhouse and Watermelon Tourmaline with size 5 needles. For some reason I thought I had to knit the scarf until I finished the yarn, but after reading over the directions, I am suppose to make the scarf about 77 inches before finishing it off. I will definitely have to block this scarf.

Well, I am off to knit.

Adding to Stash

2011-04-28T06:43:00.001-05:00

Numma Numma is back and I was able to get some new yarn. In the Usual base, I got Lunch with the Knitgirlls, in the Toasty base, I got Fresh peppers and Blackberry jam. I love Numma Numma Yarn.

From Twisted Limone, More Tangy in the color firecracker.

From Abstract Fibers, Their Supersock yarn in Koi pond and Sweet Pea.

From the Sanguine Gryphon, Skinny Bugga in Sundowner Moth.

At the Knitter’s Edge, I got two different types of Manos del Uruguay yarn. In lace, which is 70% baby alpaca, 25% silk and 5% cashmere, I got color 7805.

Then in a silk blend (70% merino and, 30% silk) I got color 300A.

Finally, from the Loopy Ewe, the April Yarn club came. It was comprised of Madelinetosh Sock in the color Midnight Rendevous with a shawl pattern called Nefertem by Kristen Kapur and a sock pattern called Rubux by Jeannie Cartmel. Also included in the package was a BIG Baggu Bag

Guess, I better get knitting.

I Got an IPAD2

2011-04-18T17:22:00.001-05:00

I am so excited. I finally got my Ipad2. I ordered it about a month ago since it was so hard to get in the store. I was suppose to get it next week, but it came 2 weeks early. I am in heaven. I got it all set up and I’m ready to go. I have been playing Angry Birds Rio like crazy.

Even though this has been a distraction, I did finish another project. It’s called the Lush Sampler Cowl by Classic Elite. I used Madelinetosh yarn in silver fox with size 8 needles. It knit up fast and I like how it turned out.

Since I finished my Wollmeise sock, I cast on another sock. I am using Twisted Limone’s Tangy yarn in the color fruit salad with size 1 needles and a basic sock pattern. I am going to try the afterthought heel with this yarn since it has wide stripes. I thought this looked bright and springy.

I also plan on going back and finishing up a thrumbed mitten that I started in 2007. One mitten is finished and I have to knit the second one. I know I won’t be using the mittens this winter, but I will be ready for next winter. I am doing well this year finishing old projects.

When will it be warm for a whole week?

2011-04-15T17:32:00.001-05:00

Today the weather was nice, but yesterday was beautiful. The sun was out and I had windows open. However, most of this week was dreary or rainy. I believe we are suppose to have some rain next week too. I hope this stops soon. It would be nice to have a whole week of warm sunny days.

This week I finished my Wollmeise basic socks. I used Red Hot Chili in the 80/20 blend and used size zero needles. I really enjoyed knitting these socks.

I’m doing the happy dance too because I finished a shrug that I started back in 2006. The pattern is Rena by Berroco. I used Berroco Softy yarn with a size 11 needle. I am so glad to be finished with this project. I really didn’t have much to finish.

I got my April shipment from the Cookie A sock club. There are sock patterns and cookie recipes of course, but the yarn is a new yarn by Lorna’s Laces. It doesn’t even have a name yet. The yarn is made up of 55% superwash Merino, 15% nylon, and 30% Outlast, a fiber technology that continuously interacts with the body’s microclimate and the environment to moderate temperature from being too hot or too cold. The color is Boysenberry Jam. The yarn is really soft. I love it!

I also bought two skeins of Lorna’s Laces Shepherd Sock in Watercolor and Glenwood.

I’m behind on my reading

2011-04-10T18:13:00.001-05:00

I haven’t been reading that much in the last couple of months. I guess I have turned my attention to finishing up some knitting projects. I know that I will catch up as the weather gets warmer and I can sit out on my back porch to read and knit.

The latest books I have read are:

Think Twice – Lisa Scottoline

Needles and Pearls – Gil McNeil

Best Friend Forever – Jennifer Weiner

The Inn at Angel Island – Katherine Spencer and Thomas Kinkade

Wild Orchids – Jude Deveraux

From Dead to Worse – Charlaine Harris

True to Form – Elizabeth Berg

Miss Julia Paints the Town – Ann B. Ross

If you Believe – Kristin Hannah

The Last Time I saw You – Elizabeth Berg

The Carrie Diaries – Candace Bushnell

Pinheads & Patriots – Bill O’Reilly

This Time Together – Carol Burnett

Roses – Leila Meacham

Another One Bites the Dust

2011-04-08T20:32:00.001-05:00

I finished the Inside Outside Scarf by Elise Duvekot. I started this scarf in November of 2008 and I’m glad that I finally finished it. It’s a tricky technique as you knit a stitch below the stitch on the needle and you really need to be careful when knitting it. If you make a mistake you have to pay attention to getting the stitches correct. I had to talk myself through the pattern to help me stay on track. The pattern tells you to knit the scarf until it gets to about 50 inches. I went a few inches longer, but when I blocked it, the scarf grew to over 70 inches. I used size 10 needles with Noro Silk Garden in colors 201 and 205. I was NOT real thrilled with the Silk Garden yarn since it had knots in the skein. Also, the pattern calls for 1 skein of each color, but I had to use a small part of a second skein in each color (not because I made the scarf longer) to finish it off. Fortunately, I had the yarn.

I also finished the April KAL from my dishcloth group. The pattern is Geffrey the Giraffe by Janet Nogle in Peaches and Crème camel colorway with size 6 needles.

I finished one sock in a basic pattern using Wollmeise 80/20 twin in Red Hot Chili with size 0 needles.

And, yes I got more yarn. From the Loopy Ewe, I got Kollage Riveting yarn in dusk denim and storm denim and Gale’s Art sock yarn in the color crayon box.

Also, from the Sanguine Gryphon, I got Skinny Bugga in Strawberry Crab. This is a new Spring colorway.

I’m currently working on the second Wollmeise sock and started another cowl called the Sampler cowl. It’s a Classic Elite pattern. I’m also hoping to work on two other older projects to get them finished. So far this year, I am doing well with getting projects completed. I may actually do well this year with my goals for 2011.

Spring may just be here

2011-04-02T20:43:00.001-05:00

Today was the first day that I felt we were starting to get into Spring. It wasn’t real warm (about 50 degrees), but it was nice and sunny out and there was no snow on the ground. We were suppose to get a bad Northeaster Thursday night into Friday, but I guess the weatherman got April Fooled because the storm moved out along the coast and we were spared. I was NOT upset. I am hoping that we are now finished with snow. It’s time to move on to the next season.

I finished the Sunny Baby Blanket by Lucie Winkler. I used Plymouth Encore in color 9626 (a blue tweed that reminds me of denim) with size 8 needles. I enjoyed this pattern and would knit it again. The only problem was that it called for 4 skeins of yarn and I could have used 5. I only did 12 repeats of the pattern rather than the 13 it called for. I just have to wash it and it’s finished.

I am still working on my Wollmeise Red Hot chili socks. I am enjoying the yarn. It’s just a basic sock pattern with size 0 needles. I probably could have finished the one sock, but I wanted to get the baby blanket finished.

Of course I had to buy more yarn. I got the Sanguine Gryphon’s Bugga in Emerald Swallowtail. I am so partial to green.

Knit One Crochet Too in Crock-O-Dye color 559 (seagrass – another green). This has silk in it. It’s a very soft yarn.

Last, but not least, I got Lornas Laces Shepherd Worsted in Zombie BBQ to make monsters.

Never say Never

2011-03-25T21:52:00.001-05:00

When I started to knit socks, I never thought that I would knit them with size 1 needles. Well, that changed. Now I love using size 1 needles. I feel that the sock is a denser knit and fits my foot better.

Then, I always thought that I would NEVER use size 0 needles. Well, guess what? For the first time, I AM using size 0 needles and it isn’t so bad. I wanted to knit a pair of socks using a skein of yarn from my Wollmeise stash. I picked Red Hot Chili in the 80/20 twin (since I have two skeins of this color). I started out with size 1.5 needles using the no purl monkey sock pattern. I didn’t like how it was knitting up and I didn’t like the pooling. I went down to size 1 needles and used a basic sock pattern. Still more pooling.

Then my knitting teacher pointed out that the knitting was loose and the repeat was longer. So, stubborn me, decided to go down to size 0 needles with the same number of stitches on the needles (64). I decided if I was going to use size 0 needles that I would use Addi’s and bought one in lace circular and one regular circular. The striping is much better and I do not mind knitting with the smaller needles. Go figure.

It’s hard to tell from the picture, but the red striping also has a hot orange stripe on the top and bottom of the red. I am so happy it finally worked out.

This week, I finished the Hearts-O-Plenty socks by Monica Jines. I used size 1 needles with Sanguine Gryphon’s Bugga yarn in Pink Katydid. I love these socks.

I also finished the March Mid Month KAL. The pattern is Waves of Love by Sue Schaeffer. I used Peaches in Crème yarn in Strawberry Cream with size 6 needles. It’s a nice pattern.

I guess March was a pink month.

Spring is getting closer

2011-03-19T12:19:00.001-05:00

Well, tomorrow is the first day of Spring. I am so glad for that. Yesterday was beautiful. The temperature got close to 70. Today is a little cooler, but the sun is shining. Soon Maggie and I will be sitting on the back porch.

I am still working on my Hearts A Plenty sock by Monica Jines. I am using Sanguine Gryphon’s Bugga in Pink Katydid. Boy, do I really like the color of this yarn. I would love to have another skein of it to make a small shawl. I think it would look so cool!

I am close to half way finished with the Sunny Baby Blanket. I really like this pattern. I am using a size 8 needle with Plymouth Encore in colorway 9626.

I got my Loopy Ewe Spring Sock Club Shipment. The yarn is Lorna’s Laces Honor, which is a 70% baby alpaca and 30% silk. The colorway is called “The Loopy Ewe Shuffle”. We got two patterns. Wendy Johnson designed a shawl called Fire and Ice and Debbie O’Neill designed a cowl called Trickle Down. Also, another Baggu bag came with the package. This is the larger size. It’s nice, but I prefer the smaller size.

One more shipment of this club will come next month. I believe that I will not renew this club for the last half of the year.

Yes, I know…..more yarn?

2011-03-12T20:48:00.001-05:00

I’m sorry, but I can’t resist. I had to have these skeins of yarn. If it makes me happy (which it does), then I say go for it.

I love String Theory Colorworks continuum yarn. Simply Socks had a skein of the color Trifolium for St. Patricks day. The yarn is so colorful, I couldn’t resist. Can’t wait to see how this will knit up into a pair of socks.

Of course, I couldn’t pass up another skein of Twisted Limone’s Tangy 100 yarn in the color Northern Sky. I guess you could say that stripes are really on my mind.

I was at my local yarn shop (The Knitter’s Edge) and they had a sample made up in the pattern 198 Yards of Heaven scarf by Christy Verity in Mountain Colors Twizzle in the ruby river colorway. I love the yarn and the pattern looks great in this yarn. It only takes one skein of yarn (198 yards), so how could I pass this up?

I was checking out the Loopy Ewe web site and came across Stricken Smitten's sinful sock yarn. So, I had to try this in the color Plink. Purple is one of my favorite colors.

Finally, one of my knitting friends put out a request for knitted baby blankets for a niece who works in a cardiac unit for children. The Knitter’s Edge had some colors of Encore on sale, so I bought 4 skeins of color 9626 (it looks like a light denim color) to make the Sunny Baby Blanket.

So yes, I bought more yarn, but I am furiously knitting away with a smile on my face.

Girasole is Finished

2011-03-11T20:08:00.001-05:00

Yes, I finally finished the Girasole. I am so excited. I just have to block it. I really enjoyed knitting this pattern. I got tired once I got to the edging and it seemed that it would take me so long to complete that I let this project sit on the needles for over a year. I finally got it back out and after getting back in the groove, it took me less than a week to complete it. I still have to block it, but here are the pictures.

I used Cascade Eco Alpaca in natural with size 10 needles.

I also blocked my Multnomah scarf. Here is a picture of it blocking and after blocking. I love the blocking wires. This is the second project where I used the wires.

I also started another pair of socks. The pattern is Hearts-a-Plenty by Monica Jines. I really like her patterns. I am using The Sanguine Gryphon’s Bugga yarn in Pink Katydid (from the bon bon kit) with size 1 needles. I love, love, love this color and would really like to make a lace scarf out of it. I hope she offers this color again.

I have had another busy knitting week.

Spring May Just be Around the Corner

2011-03-05T00:33:00.001-05:00

It has been a little colder, but the temps have been in the high 30’s or low 40’s here and it feels a lot warmer than it has been. It seems as if we will be in for some warmer weather for the next week, although we may have some rain. Rain is okay. What really makes me happy is that all the snow is melted in my yard. So, no snow is wonderful. Even Maggie keeps going to the back door to go out on the back porch. Once I open the door, she sniffs and walks back in the house. She’s ready to be sitting on the porch.

I did get quite a bit of knitting finished this week. I finally completed the ripple afghan I was knitting for our new lazy boy chair. I used Fantasy Naturale in color 8013 using size 8 needles. I was really glad to be finished with this.

I also got the multnomah scarf completed. I started this project back in 2009. It feels good to get this off of my needles. It wasn’t a bad pattern. I guess I just got caught up in casting something new on the needles and this got put on the back burner. I used String Theory Caper sock in color oban with size 3 needles. I still have to block this and will probably do it over the weekend. I will post the blocked scarf once that is done.

Also completed is the Eternity Scarf using Berroco’s Flicker yarn in color 3307 with size 9 needles.

I finished the March KAL for my dishcloth group. The pattern is Katie the Kangaroo by Sonia’s Knits. I used Peaches and Crème yarn in color misty grey with size 6 needles.

In my one dishcloth group, we had a dishcloth swap. I was a partner with Norma in Missouri. She lives around St. Louis so she sent me a Darrel Waltrip dishcloth and a postcard from St. Louis. I love the color.

After all of this finishing, I cast on for a new sock and cowl. I also plan on finishing my Girasole. I just need to knit the edging, but that will take some time. Pictures and details will be on the next blog post. Only 14 more days until Spring.

The needles are clicking

2011-02-24T16:06:00.001-05:00

I’ve been doing great in the knitting department. I finished the mushishi cowl. I used size 9 needles. It came out great!

I also completed the February Mid Month KAL in my dishcloth group. The pattern is Weave Me Wash Me by Alli Barrett. This was a fun knit even though there was a lot of seed stitch. I forgot that I was knitting the seed stitch pattern. I used Peaches and Crème in shaded pastels with a size 6 needle.

Then, I finally blocked my calendar scarf that I finished in September. It came out really nice.

Two of my knitting friends and I are knitting socks where we each take turns picking out the pattern. We all finally finished the embossed leave sock, so here is the picture.

I was able to snag three skeins of Wollmeise Twin from the Loopy Ewe. I got Red Hot Chili, Grapes for Sheri, and Gewitterhimmel.

And, last but not least, I was able to get another ball of Twisted Limone Tangy sock yarn in the jelly bean colorway. This is a really nice color!

I’m getting close to finishing the Eternity Scarf. I should be able to finish it by the end of the week. I will soon be starting the feather and fan stitch on my Multnomah scarf. I’m concerned about this part of the pattern as some knitter’s were having trouble with it. Only 6 more repeats of the pattern on the blanket I am knitting. I should be finishing that up in the next two or three weeks. It feels so good.

Yarn Clubs Plus

2011-02-18T18:15:00.001-05:00

I got my first shipment of yarn from Club Loopy. The yarn is from the Alpaca Yarn Company and it is called Paca Heels and Toes. Along with the shipment, I got a sock and shawl pattern as well as a Loopy Ewe Baggu bag. Love this shipment.

The Cookie A sock club shipment also came. I got two exclusive sock yarn patterns as well as two cookie recipes with String Theory Caper Sock in the Solas color way. The yarn appears to be green in the picture, but it is really a blue color.

The Sanguine Gryphon had a special package you could buy for Valentine’s Day. It is called the Bon Bon kit. I got 4 skeins of Bugga yarn in the following colors: From the top, clockwise – Pink Katydid, Purple Ochre Sea Star, Devils Flower, Tropical Shield Bug. Love this kit. I already have a sock pattern figured out for one of these skeins. The question is, which skein?

In addition to the Bugga, I also got 2 skeins of Codex in the color Again and Again.

There are so many nice yarn clubs out there this year. I passed up the String Theory Colorworks club. Maybe next year.

Finishing

2011-02-16T11:11:00.001-05:00

I have been doing great in the finishing department. It’s so rewarding. What is also great is that I have been completing some old WIPs.

I completed the basic pair of socks in String Theory Continuum yarn in the Galactic Ghoul color way using size 1 needles.

I finished an old WIP called the Leaf Lace Scarf by Janet D. Russell. I used Ella Rae lace merino yarn in a blue color way using size 3 needles. This is the first project that I really blocked using blocking wires. It worked out really well.

I also completed another old project. A scarf using Habu Cork Chenille and Tobi Moire yarns with size 10 needles. I was really glad to be finished with this. You just knit every row, but with two skeins of yarn that are fine threads, it was easy to make a mistake when knitting.

This morning, I finally blocked my Calendar Scarf. I finished this in September, but never blocked it. I used Dale of Norway Baby Ull yarn in a natural color with size 2 needles. I love this yarn. I will definitely do another Calendar Scarf using the same yarn, but in a different color. I will post another picture when it is dry from blocking.

I started an Eternity Scarf by Michele Wang. I am using Berroco’s Flicker yarn with a size 9 needle. The color is 3307 a dark grey. This yarn is so soft, but does dry out your hands.

Well, off to knit some more. I am close to finishing the Mushishi cowl. I would like to finish this by the end of the week. Then next old WIP up for finishing is my Multnomah shawl and then the Girasole.

Great Knitting Week

2011-02-11T21:24:00.001-05:00

February is going so fast. I can’t believe that it’s almost half over. I have been doing a lot of knitting this week. That is a good thing.

I finished the February Dishcloth KAL. The pattern is called Betsy the Bass by Janet Nogle. I used size 7 needles with Peaches and Crème yarn in the Delft Blue colorway.

I also finished another Darrell Waltrip cloth. The pattern is by Rhonda White. I used size 6 needles with Sugar and Cream yarn in Beach Ball Blue.

I have been working on my String Theory Continuum Basic sock in the Galactic Ghoul colorway with size 1 needles. One sock is complete. This yarn is soft and plush. I just love it.

And, I have been working faithfully on the Leaf Lace Scarf using size 3 needles with Ella Rae lace merino yarn. I’m so excited that I am just about finished with this scarf since I started it in May of 2009.

I also bought some new yarn. I got Berroco’s Flicker yarn in color 3307 (grey). I will be casting on tomorrow for the Eternity Scarf using this yarn. It’s so soft and pretty with the flicks of sliver in it.

I couldn’t resist buying another skein of Twisted Limone sock yarn in the Liquorice Lime colorway. This picture looks like yellow and black, but it’s really lime and black.

Looks like we will be having some warmer weather in the next few days. By warm I mean it will be in the 40’s. I hope a lot of our snow and ice melts before we get another storm. Maybe the Groundhog was right and spring is around the corner.

Snow and Ice

2011-02-01T19:39:00.001-05:00

Well, we are in the middle of two storms. Today we had snow mixed with freezing rain and now there is a lull in the weather, but late tonight or early tomorrow morning, we will be getting an ice storm. Needless to say, I have been knitting away. Perfect weather for it. I just hope that we don’t lose power.

I finally finished the Moebius scarf that I was working on. I was using Araucania Panguipulli in color 5. I used size 10 needles. I really enjoyed this knit and learned a lot about moebius. I will definitely try knitting something again using this method. This is really nice and warm around the neck.

I also completed the Basic Sock I was working on using Lorna’s Laces Shepherd Sock in the pullman colorway. I used a size 1 needle for this sock.

I did start another basic sock using String Theroy Colorworks Continuum sock in Galactic Ghoul. I really love this yarn. It is nice and soft.

I was really glad that I got into the CookieA sock club. I wasn’t going to try, but it’s CookieA and I’m sure the patterns will be great as well as the yarn. I’m also participating in the Loopy Ewe club, which is a three month club. I will try the three month club and decide if I want to stay in after that. I am debating about the String Theory sock club. She is going to open up memberships in February. I have time to make up my mind about that one.

I am still working on the Mushishi (Plymouth Yarns) cowl in color 09. This yarn is really fun to knit. I am using size 9 needles.

Still frogging some old WIP’s that I didn’t see me finishing, but I did start up on the Leaf Lace Scarf that I started several years ago. I have an incentive, since one of my Yahoo Dishcloth groups is having a scarf KAL. You can knit any scarf, so I am knitting this for the month of February and hopefully will finish it. I will post pictures of this on my next blog post.

Stay warm and safe. Only 46 more days until spring and hopefully the Groundhog won’t see his shadow tomorrow.

Yarn

2011-01-27T13:06:00.001-05:00

Yes, I’m still buying. I can’t resist. But, I am being more selective.

First up is Noro Silk Garden Sock in color S269. It’s a cream colorway to use in combination with another skein to make a Silk Kerchief. I am going to use my new size 3 Signature cable needles to knit this. I just need to finish another project and then I’m casting on.

Second is Sanguine Gryphon’s Codex. I got Flash Harry(green) and Enid Coleslaw (purple) to make the Moody Kerchief. I may be able to make 2 Kerchiefs out of this.

Third is Madelinetosh merino light in tern. This is a grey colorway and is it ever nice. I am going to use this to make the Twisted Rib Neckwarmer.

Fourth is Malabrigo worsted in the colorway Pearl Ten. I am going to use this to make a slouchy hat. I have a couple of patterns to choose from and I’m not sure which one I will pick yet.

I thought this was a grey color, but it appears to have some brown in it.

Fifth is Twisted Limone Zingy 100. I got a shaded solid in a green colorway called Cucumber coblis.

And, I also got Tangy in the colorway Fruit Salad. This will have wide stripes.

Last, but not least, I got a monster to knit. It’s a kit from Danger craft called Iris the Gourmet Monster. She also has a book that might be available now and I plan on getting that too. The yarn is from Lorna’s Laces.

Now all I need is the time to knit all of these patterns. Although, we have been having a lot of snow lately, so that might help me.Only 51 days until spring.

Finishing and Frogging

2011-01-26T22:02:00.001-05:00

Well, I am working on projects. Many projects, but I am finishing some. In fact, I’m not letting myself start on another project until I finish something (other than dishcloths). So that’s a great incentive isn’t it.

I did start to frog some projects that I didn’t think I would finish. I ripped out the baby sweater. I wasn’t keen on how it was turning out, so I knit a dishtowel and dishcloth. The pattern is Annie’s kitchen set by Sue Schaeffer. I used Katia Tobago in color 53. I used a size 8 needle for the dishtowel and size 6 needle for the dishcloth.

I also ripped out a fetching glove. I didn’t like the needles I was using and I ripped out a lace shawl (candle flame shawl) I really just had completed the border. With all the lace shawl patterns out there, I decided that I could find another pattern that I liked better. Last but not least, I ripped out the silky tie wrap. I just didn’t like how it was turning out. I will use the yarn for something else. I think that is all I will rip out for now.

I finished the January Mid Month KAL from my Monthly Dishcloth group. The pattern is called Freedom by Sue Schaeffer. I used Peaches and Crème in a light blue and baby green with size 7 needles.

This would be a good time to mention that I am sad that Elmore Pisgah (maker of Peaches and Crème yarn) sold the company to Spinrite (maker of Sugar and Cream). I really loved this cotton yarn for dishcloth better than Sugar and Cream. Fortunately, I have a lot of it in my stash and should be okay for years to come.

One sock is finished in my Lornas Laces basic sock using the Pullman colorway with size 1 needles. I liked how the striping was turning out.

I’m so excited. Signature Needles came out with their updated circular needles. I liked the cable on this needle, so I got a size 3, 24 inch needle with 5 inch metal needle. Can’t wait to try this. I have a project in mind, but need to finish some things before starting. I also got a size 4 cable needle as well as some Double Point tubes from them.

Just had to show you a picture of Maggie sleeping. I caught her sleeping on her football. She so likes her toys, especially her balls and many times has to go and run to get one to sleep with so that she knows where it is before she goes to sleep. Isn’t she cute?

Wool Girl Sock Club–December 2010

2011-01-14T21:32:00.001-05:00

Well, I got my last Wool Girl Sock club shipment.

This was a nice club, but I decided to cut back in 2010 and not sign up in 2011.

The package included 1 skein of Miss Babs Yummy fingering weight sock yarn in the color Love Letters, a Love Letters sock pattern by IrishGirlie Knits, an Ardor shawlette pattern by Jenny Raymond, a vintage heart sachet, a stitch marker, a set of Love Letter photo greeting cards, a mini Oscar Wilde diary, and a gift tag.

Knitting Like Crazy

2011-01-13T22:24:00.001-05:00

Maybe it’s the weather. It’s been cold here and we have had several small snow storms. That must be what is getting me in the mood to knit and cast on for different projects.

I finished a Darrell Waltrip dishcloth by Rhonda K. White. I used a size 6 needle with Peaches and Crème in Victorian Christmas. I enjoyed how this turned out.

Then I completed the January KAL dishcloth called Happy 2011 by Alli Barrett. I used a size 6 needle with Peaches and Crème in baby blue.

I also finished my Christmas socks. I used a size 1 needle with Frolicking Feet yarn in the color way called Christmas Cactus.

I started another sock using Lorna’s Laces Shepherd sock in the pullman color way with size 1 needles. This is the first time I am using Lorna’s Laces yarn. I love how it feels and how it stripes.

Then one of my friends was knitting a cowl using Plymouth Yarn Mushishi. It' looked so nice that I bought the yarn and cast on for the cowl. It’s a simple pattern of purling 3 rows and knitting 3 rows. I am using a size 9 needle.

I found two other patterns that I want to start knitting. They are both small shawls. I will be casting on soon. I just need to get more needles. Yikes!

2010 ended with yarn buying binge

2011-01-04T21:09:00.001-05:00

I want to stop adding yarn to my stash and I really am going to try hard this year to knit from my stash. But, before I do that, I had to buy some yarn before the year 2010 ended.

I couldn’t resist the new colors of Sanguine Gryphon’s skinny bugga. From top to bottom: I got Two butterflies went out at noon,The very quiet cricket, Sandworm, and Shelob.

Then, I was lucky….very, very lucky to catch Loopy Ewe putting up Wollmeise Twin sock yarn. I got two skeins. The colors are Granatapfel and Gazpacho.

I was checking out the Yarn Harlot’s blog and saw socks made out of Lorna’s Laces Shepherd Sock in the pullman colorway. I just had to have it. I have cast on for a sock already.

I couldn’t resist Dream in Color’s Smooshy December Dream club yarn in the color candy floss. Actually, I loved the pattern and that hooked me to get the yarn.

Last, but not least, one of my knitting friends was knitting a cowl using Plymouth Yarns Mushishi yarn in the color 9 (red). It looks so pretty and it’s so soft, I couldn’t resist it either.

So, that was my last buying binge for awhile. It’s knit from stash time and I certainly have a lot of it. I could open my own yarn store. I won’t say that I won’t buy any yarn because if I can be lucky enough to get more Wollmeise, I wouldn’t turn that down and Numma Numma should be back to dying yarns again soon and I certainly can’t resist that. I didn’t sign up for any sock clubs. I will sign up for the Loopy Ewe club, but if I don’t get in, I won’t be real disappointed. 2011 seems to be about moderation in many ways.

New Year, New Resolutions

2011-01-02T15:29:00.005-05:00

I need to revisit the resolutions that I made for 2010 and see how well I did.

GOALS for 2010

1. Organize closets and cabinets – Definitely start to purge items by having a yard sale. I definitely did a lot of organizing. I went through the whole house and finished the basement and garage, the first floor is finished except for the kitchen, the second floor is complete, but I still need to do the attic. I did not have a yard sale, but have things ready for one.

2. Update my blog once a week. – I did not necessarily post once a week, but I did make up for it in other weeks. I had 56 blog posts for the year.

3. I will not buy any new yarn from January through April and buy sparingly the rest of the year. – Well, that didn’t happen.

4. Knit 12 pairs of socks – I only did 8 pairs of socks. I got slowed down because of work.

5. Finish some UFO’s – At least 9 items – That didn’t happen either.

6. Knit a clapotis – Didn’t happen

7. Lose weight and exercise – I did join a fitness center, but gained any weight back I lost this past year.

8. Read 65 books – I read 76 books

9. Clean off old computers and recycle them as well as some old printers. – I did do that, but need to do some more.

GOALS for 2011

1. Finish organizing closets and cabinets and purge items

2. Update blog at least once a week

3. Knit 12 pairs of socks

4. Finish some UFO’s

5. Join Weight Watchers

6. Read 65 books

7. Stash bust

8. Recycle old electronics

Maybe I can meet these goals. It should help that I’m not working.

What I knit in 2010

26 Dishcloths

2 Cowls

8 pairs of socks

1 Chemo hat

2 Hotpads

4 scarves

1 baby afghan

2 baby hats

1 prayer shawl

UFO’s

Multnomah Shawl

Girasole

Leaf Lace Scarf

Central Park Hoodie

Silky Tie Wrap

Candle Flame Shawl

Habu Scarf

Ripple Afghan

Black Fetching Gloves

Knit One Below Scarf

Thrumbed Mitten

Mystery Stole 3

Square a long afghan

Snowflake Cloth

Orange Sweater

Shrug

Socks that Rock Scarf

Baby Sweater

Prayer Shawl

Ripple Baby Afghan

Mobieus Scarf

Caera Cowl

Great American Afghan Squares

Christmas Sock

My goodness, 24 unfinished projects and I have 3 more projects that I plan on casting on within the next few days. I have to get knitting!

Happy New Year - 2011

2011-01-01T00:57:00.001-05:00

50 Pairs of Socks

2010-12-31T19:01:00.001-05:00

I have finished my 50th pair of socks. When I started on this journey of knitting socks, I was determined to master it. It has been an ongoing process and I learn new things all the time.

Some things I have learned:

1. I hate ribbing of K1, P1. I still use it for socks but do prefer K2, P2 or K1 through the back loop and P1.

2. I have learned that when picking up stitches for the foot of the sock that it is better to k1 through the back loop.

3. I have learned how to avoid holes when picking up stitches for the foot.

4. I also have found a toe decrease that I like better than others. It is a personal preference. I found this recipe from a sock pattern I was knitting. The pattern was Croc socks by Monica Jines.

5. I learned how to feel comfortable doing the kitchener stitch. (Using a cheat sheet really helps)

6. I’ve learned how to do a toe up sock.

7. I’ve learned how to do a patterned sock.

8. I’ve learned how to follow a chart.

9. I’ve learned how to use double pointed needles.

10. I’ve learned how to knit two socks on two needles.

11. I’ve learned that I prefer to knit one sock at a time on two needles.

12. I’ve learned that I love sock yarn and that you can use it for other projects other than socks.

13. I’ve learned that handpainted sock yarn is nicer to stripe than hand dyed sock yarn.

14. I’ve learned that I love Sanguine Gryphon’s bugga and skinny bugga sock yarn, Wollmeise sock yarn, Numma Numma sock yarn, Sundara sock yarn, Socks that Rock Sock yarn, Trekking sock yarn and Online yarn sock, and all the other sock yarn out there as you can tell from my stash. But, I especially love sock yarn with cashmere in it.

15. I’ve learned that using size 1 needles with 64 stitches really does make a nicer sock. It fits nicer and makes for a denser fabric. When I first began knitting socks, I would have fought tooth and nail using such a small needle. Size 2’s were my needle of choice.

16. I’ve learned that even though you are using a pattern designed by someone else, you can change it to suit yourself.

17. Last but not least, I’ve learned that I love knitting socks!

Looking back, I have learned quite a bit from knitting socks.

I have finished the Embossed Leaves socks (pair number 50) by Mona Schmidt. I used size 1.5 needles with Sanguine Gryphon’s skinny bugga in leaf insect.

So, try knitting socks if you never have and if you have tried and feel frustrated, don’t give up. Once you do feel comfortable knitting socks, you will feel a great sense of achievement!

2010-12-24T22:32:00.001-05:00

Ready or Not–Christmas is almost here

2010-12-23T21:32:00.001-05:00

Well, either you are ready or you are not. I’m just about there. All my presents are wrapped, food is bought, and I think that except for a few odds and ends, I can actually relax tomorrow. Maybe I will even get time to knit.

Tomorrow night, my family will be visiting for Christmas. We usually order out for pizza and I have some snacks ready plus cookies of course. Christmas Day, my father-in-law will be up for dinner. Then it’s all over for another year.

I did finish the one Christmas gift I was making. I made a prayer shawl for my Mother-in-law, who is in a nursing home. I used Marble Chunky in color MC15 with size 13 needles. I really liked this yarn and I’m now working on a shawl for me.

I also finished the last dishcloth of the year in my Monthly Dishcloth group. I used size 7 needles with Peaches and Crème yarn in Powder puff. The pattern is called Snowy drops by Andi Worthy.

After all the hustle and bustle of this week, I will be glad for next week when I can relax and knit. I don’t even care if it snows next week. I’m ready for a blizzard.

Getting There

2010-12-18T21:30:00.001-05:00

I am knitting. Yep, I am knitting quite a few different projects and I am getting somewhat close to finishing a few of them.

I am finally on the second Embossed Leaves sock. I should be close to starting the heel flap soon.

I am also getting close to the toe decreasing on the Frolicking Feet basic sock in Christmas Cactus. I don’t think I will have these finished for Christmas, but maybe for New Years I will.

I did start another shawl using Marble Chunky in color MC16 and size 13 needles. I love the color. This one is for me.

I also started a Ripple Baby Afghan to put on the back of our new Lazy Boy chair. I am using size 8 needles in Fantasy Naturale color 8013. Only 16 more repeats to go.

This didn’t stop me from buying more yarn. I got Skinny Bugga from the Sanguine Gryphon in Arge Moth.

And, I also got Gia Fingering yarn from the Sanguine Gryphon in the color Pororoca.

Plus, I got Little Traveller sock yarn in color balleyboley forest to use on one of the three Advent Calendar scarf patterns that are available this year.

The Sanguine Gryphon’s winter colors are coming out and I’m afraid that I will have no will power and will probably buy more of her yarn. I just love it.

From the Loopy Ewe, I got Madelinetosh Pashmina in briar purple and Cascade Epiphany in color 1310. I just had to try these two yarns. They will be either for a cowl or small shawl.

Lucky that I keep casting on new projects isn’t it?

December and snow

2010-12-10T21:57:00.001-05:00

Well, we haven’t had any snow accumulation yet, but we have had snow flurries. It’s so pretty to see the snow when it’s flurries. However, Sunday we could have some snow on the ground. But, that’s okay. I have no where to go and I can curl up and read a book or knit. I’m just about ready for Christmas. I only have a few small items to get and just have to wrap a couple of things. So, bring on the snow!

I finally finished one of the Embossed Leaves socks. I am using Sanguine Gryphon’s Skinny Bugga in leaf insect with a size one and one-half needle. I altered the pattern a little (cuff and toe), but I like how it’s turning out.

I also finished the December KAL from my monthly dishcloth group. The pattern is Knitted Tree by Frugalhaus. I used Peaches and Crème in Christmas Green with a size 7 needle. This was fun to knit.

I also started a basic sock using Frolicking Feet in Christmas Cactus. I'm using a size one needle. Not sure if I will finish this in time for Christmas.

I was fascinated by another knitter’s project of the Ribbed Mobeius Scarf, so I went on YouTube to see how to do the cast on and I am loving this pattern. It’s very easy once you get the yarn cast on. I am using Araucania Panguipulli in color 5 with a size 10 needle.

I did have to buy more yarn. I got more Marble Chunky in the color MC16 (a gold colorway).

And, I got Fantasy Naturale in color 8013 to make a small afghan to put on the back of our new Lazyboy chair.

I’m a happy camper. I’m enjoying my time at home, doing what I want to do when I want to do it, surrounded by yarn and knitting with my friends at the Knitter’s Edge. What more could I want?

Finished one goal for 2010

2010-12-04T18:52:00.001-05:00

Yippee, I did meet my goal of reading at least 65 books this year. I know that I won’t meet all of my goals, but at least I accomplished this one. I have read the following books lately:

Skein of the Crime by Maggie Sefton

A Wish for Christmas by Thomas Kinkade and Katherine Spencer – this series is a great read.

Growing up Laughing by Marlo Thomas – I loved Danny Thomas. This was about growing up and also some insight about different comedians.

Sizzling Sixteen by Janet Evanovitch – another great book

They call me Baba Booey by Gary Dell’abate and Chad Millman – He works with Howard Stern, but this was about his life and his mother who had mental problems.

Happily Ever After by Nora Roberts – the 4th book in the Bride series. This really wasn’t as good as the others.

The Handmaid and the Carpenter by Elizabeth Berg – A great read for Christmas.

Dune Road by Jane Green – I love her books and this didn’t disappoint.

Knit the Season by Kate Jacobs – the third book in the series and it was really good.

I still have time to read a couple more books in the month of December.

Back to Knitting Socks

2010-11-29T21:40:00.001-05:00

It’s good to be back….back to knitting socks. It’s been awhile since I was working and then working on other projects. Socks were on the back burner. But, I finally picked up a sock I had started back in October. I am working on the Embossed Leaves Sock by Mona Schmidt. I am using a size 1.5 needle with the Sanguine Gryphon Skinny Bugga in Leaf Insect. I hope to be turning the heel by the end of the week.

I want to start on a Christmas sock. A plain basic sock pattern using either String Theory Continuum sock yarn in Kinetic Energy. I got this yarn in a kit from Simply Socks. It was the Fa La La sock kit. We got a reversal project bag, bottle cap magnets and gift cards with the kit. I really like the yarn too.

The other sock yarn I am thinking of using is the yarn I got at the Knitter’s Edge, my favorite local yarn store. It’s from Frolicking Feet and the color is Christmas Cactus. I think I will knit my Christmas sock out of this yarn.

I started on the second ball of Marble Chunky yarn for the prayer shawl for my only knitted Christmas gift. I really like this yarn. It’s acrylic, soft and washable. I just had to buy more colors, so I got MC14 (red) and MC6 (blue/brown). I think there is another color that I want to get yet. I like this so much that I am getting rid of the Lion Brand Homespun yarn I bought awhile back. I will donate it to a prayer shawl group.

Are you knitting any Christmas gifts?

It was a Great Thanksgiving

2010-11-27T23:11:00.001-05:00

I really had a great Thanksgiving, especially since I had quit my job. It just wasn’t working out for me and I was having blood pressure issues. So, I guess my body was telling me to take time to smell the roses and stay home. I am enjoying it immensely. I get to do what I want (knit and read) and what I am really looking forward to is sitting at home and watch it snow. I won’t have to worry if I should stay home or go into work.

I have been knitting. I finished the November Mid Month Dishcloth KAL. The pattern is called Fire N Ice by Janet Nogle. I used Peaches and Crème yarn in Premium Passion and Delft Blue with a size 6 needle. This was a fun knit and it turned out really nice.

I also completed the Purl Ridge Scarf. It’s a scarf that is knit in the round. The pattern is by Stephen West. I really like his designs. I used a size 8 needle with Madelinetosh dk yarn in the oxblood color way.

I really enjoy knitting cowls, so I bought yarn to make more. I got Rowan Lima in a grey and purple color way.

Rowan Drift in a grey color way. I think I am on a grey kick.

Also, Araucania Panguipulli yarn to make a Mobius scarf in a blue/teal color way.

And I bought more Baby Ull yarn by Dale of Norway to get ready to knit more calendar scarves. I still have to block the last one I knit and will have to post a picture once it’s blocked. I got a green color (9013)

and a grey color (0007).

I have much knitting to keep me busy during the winter months don’t I?

Christmas songs on the radio?

2010-11-13T19:26:00.001-05:00

November is flying by and Christmas is coming up pretty quickly. One of our local radio stations is playing Christmas music already. It just doesn’t seem right. It was nice that Daylight Savings Time ended last Sunday and we got an extra hour, but I hate that it’s dark out so early. I am dreaming of Spring and warmer weather.

I got my last Loopy Ewe Sock Club shipment. It was a nice package. We got The Sanguine Gryphon’s Bugga yarn in Great Purple Hairstreak, A top down sock pattern by Debbie of Nutty Creations and cabled hat pattern by Sara of the Sexy Knitter. Also in the package was a set of stitch markers and a Loopy Ewe Stitch Marker pocket.

So, this was the second year that I was in the club. I will go into the lottery again, but won’t be guaranteed a spot. So, if I get in, I get in and if not I should be in the Don’t Be blue club, which will be nice.

I also bought some Fortissima Color Sock yarn in color 164. I liked the different shades of red on this yarn and it would be nice for Christmas or Valentines Day.

I completed the November 2010 dishcloth KAL. The cloth is by Elaine Fitzpatrick and it’s called the peanut cloth. I used Peaches and Crème in color peacock with size 6 needles.

I also finished the Twist baby hat by Melissa Goodale. I used Debbie Bliss Baby Cashmerino in a blue denim colorway with size 2 and 3 needles.

I need to give this hat and the Sprout hat to my niece. Her baby was due on November 12th, but she had the baby on November 4th. He was 7 pounds, 8 ounces and she named him Carter.

Reading–but falling behind

2010-11-07T13:07:00.001-05:00

I have been reading, but work sure is getting in the way. I think I will make my goal of 65 books for the year, but I need to get reading.

I have finished the following books:

Fly Away Home – Jennifer Weiner (great read and hope there is a sequel)

On Mystic Lake – Kristin Hannah – I just love her books

A Vintage Affair by Isabel Wolft

Dream When you’re Feeling Blue – Elizabeth Berg

Promises to Keep – Jane Green

1022 Evergreen Place – Debbie Macomber

The Surgeon – Tess Gerritsen – Scary book

Big Russ & Me – Tim Russert

The Perfect Christmas – Debbie Macomber

The Things we do for Love – Kristin Hannah

Low Country Summer – Dorothea Benton Frank – Love, love her books

Heart of the Matter – Emily Giffin

Home Again – Kristin Hannah

Wool Girl Sock Club–October 2010

2010-11-06T12:58:00.001-05:00

I got the October shipment of the Wool Girl Sock Club. It is a nice package.

I got a skein of Sweet Georgia Tough Love Sock in Terrywinkle colorway. Two patterns: The Sock Thief sock pattern by Liz Abinante and Secret Love Scarf pattern by Liz Abinante. A wooden box designed by Brooke of Mmin: I like Dreamin, A handmade glass needle vial by Zecca (I love these), a loop design vintage stitch marker, and a handmade gift tag.

One more shipment of Woolgirl to come in December.

I got to go to knitting for over an hour on Friday. That made me feel good. I was working on the prayer shawl for a Christmas gift. It was also nice to see my knitting friends.

Just in time for Halloween

2010-10-29T17:28:00.001-05:00

I finished the socks! I really concentrated on finishing my Halloween socks. I loved the yarn and how it striped. I used size 1 needles, String Theory Continuum sock yarn in the color way Little Ghost Nebula with a basic sock pattern. I love my new socks and I got to wear them to knitting today.

Yes, I went to my favorite yarn shop today and was able to knit with my friends. What a great day. I really felt sad though. I miss going to knitting. I am really going to try and get there for at least an hour each Friday or most Fridays. The good news is that in two weeks I am off again and two weeks after that is Thanksgiving and I am off again. So, I can definitely go those weeks. Something to look forward to.

I also finished the October Mid Month KAL. The pattern was a witch by Alli Barrett. I used size 6 needles with Sugar and Cream yarn in orange.

Guess, you can tell it’s October and Halloween since I have been using a lot of orange colored yarn?

I have purchased some new yarn. I loved the String Theory Continuum yarn that I had to get Candy Corn and Electron from Simply Socks.

From the Loopy Ewe, I recently purchased Dream in Color’s Everlasting Sock yarn in Rosy and Tidewater. It’s a nice sock yarn. The Rosy color way is different from any other colors I have.

Now that I finished my Halloween sock, I need to get knitting on the embossed leaves sock, the prayer shawl for Christmas, and the baby hat for my niece (yikes, the baby is due soon). I also need to start on the Great American afghan project that my friends are also knitting and need to get ready for the 2010 Kalendar scarf ( I still have to block my other scarf and take a picture of the finished project).

I can’t finish without showing a new picture of Maggie. Doesn’t she look content and happy?

Time is flying and I’m glad. I’m counting the days until the end of April. Hope it goes real fast.

Knitting Makes me Happy

2010-10-15T19:47:00.001-05:00

I am finally knitting more and starting to finish some projects.

I completed the October KAL in my Dishcloth group. The pattern was Spider by Andi Worthy. I used size 6 needles with Peaches and Creme yarn in the color shrimp.

I finished one Halloween sock using String Theory’s Continuum yarn in Little Ghost Nebula. I am using size 1 needles. This yarn is really nice and I love how it striped.

Three knitting friends were working on the Maelstrom sock and all of us finally finished them. Don’t they look great?

I had to get a new picture of Maggie. She just loves her ball and needs to have it by her all of the time. She’s always ready to have me play with her. I love how her tongue sticks out.

Yarn, Yarn and more Yarn….when does it stop?

2010-10-04T18:57:00.001-05:00

I’m not knitting much, but I sure am buying yarn. I just love yarn. It makes me happy.

From The Knitter’s Edge, I got Crystal Palace Mochi Plus in color 558. It’s a blue, green, purple color to make the Ruffled Scarf.

I also got Berroco Comfort yarn in color 9726 to make a bunny rabbit for my niece’s baby. However, I recently found out that the theme for the room is monkey’s, so maybe I won’t be making the bunny.

Then I got String Theory’s Continuum sock yarn from Simply Socks. This is a wide striping sock yarn. It’s really cool and I love the colors. I got Dark Matter (purple and black) and Little Ghost Nebula (orange and black for Halloween).

I started on the Halloween sock and it’s fun to knit. I’m using a size 1 needle. I love the orange color. My high school colors are also Orange and Black. Although it’s been years since I graduated from high school.

I couldn’t resist ordering Skinny Bugga from the Sanguine Gryphon. Her new fall colors are out. I got Leaf Insect and The Herald. Lovely colors!

I did start a prayer shawl for my mother-in-law for Christmas. Hope I get to finish it. I am using the Marble Chunky yarn in color MC 15 with a size 13 needle. I really like working with this yarn.

Sock Club Shipment

2010-10-03T19:46:00.001-05:00

Yes, I got another sock club shipment. They are surely fun to get, yet maybe I’m not as excited about them as I use to be. We shall see what happens next year if I will decide to sign up for more.

From Wool Girl, I got a special shipment of divinely inspired by cupcakes. This was separate from her sock club. She sure wraps up the kits really nicely.

In this shipment, I got a skein of Dashing Docs fingering weight yarn in Cupcake: Divinely Inspired colorway (pink), a sock and a cowl pattern, an accessory bag, pin cushion, push pin, stitch markers, lip balm, box, postcards, recipe, and a gift tag.

The Loopy Ewe September sock club came and I got Madelinetosh sock in Loopy’s Favorite Season, a sock and fingerless glove pattern. Heal Creme and a Lotion bar. Love this package.

Fall is here

2010-09-27T19:25:00.001-05:00

So glad that it is raining today. We really need it. Fall, it reminds me that I need to get knitting. What a great time of the year to do that. I sure am not lacking for yarn.

I got some Jojoland Rhythm yarn in color RS71 to knit the Preppie Scarf by Anni Howard. I love how you knit the fringe.

Marble Chunky in color MC15 to knit a prayer shawl for my mother-in-law who is in a nursing home.

Freshile Fibers Double Down fingering yarn in Watermelon to knit socks.

And Sanguine Gryphon in Skinny Bugga (I just love Skinny Bugga and Bugga) in Faithful Beauty. Maybe for a shawl or small shawl and socks?

I did finish a dishcloth from my Monthly Dishcloth KAL group. The pattern is called Leaf Patterned by Andi Worthy. I used Peaches and Creme in verde green with a size 7 needle.

Off to knit!

Where did two weeks go?

2010-09-26T19:48:00.001-05:00

Time flies I guess. Well, I haven’t been blogging lately because I took a full time job. Am I crazy? I think so. We shall see how this goes, but if it doesn’t work out then it’s no big deal. Something was calling me to do this and I guess there is a reason.

As a result I haven’t been knitting much these last two weeks and I have a lot to catch up on. I did frog the Madelinetosh sock I was working on. After casting on several times, I gave up. I didn’t like how it was turning out so I ripped it out and threw away the yarn. Sometimes you just have to give up on it.

I have some new yarn and projects to blog about, but I will save that until later this week.

Wool Girl – August Sock Club

2010-09-08T19:35:00.001-05:00

I got my Wool Girl sock club shipment for August. The theme is Butterfly Kisses. It included:

A skein of Zen String Serenity 20 fingering weight sock yarn in the Butterfly Kisses colorway.
Flutterby sock pattern designed by Debbie O’Neill
Butterfly Tattoo Scarf designed by Renee Strouts
A set of embossed and glittered butterfly diecut notecards
A Butterfly notions tin
A fabric sticky note post-it note holder
2 Butterfly stitch markers
A handmade gift tag

So cool.

Time Flies

2010-09-07T23:27:00.001-05:00

Time sure flies. I can’t believe that it’s after Labor Day already. I really enjoyed my summer this year. I finished the Calendar Scarf, but need to block it. I hope to do that in the next few days and will post pictures after it is blocked.

I did complete the Sprout hat that I working on for my niece’s baby boy due in November. I used Debbie Bliss Baby Cashmerino in color 340003 (green) with size 2 and size 3 needles. It had a tricky stitch in the directions, but I emailed the designer and she sent me a tutorial, which was very helpful.

I also started on the Twist hat by the same designer. Pictures to come later.

I finished the Flounce scarf. This was a fun knit. I used color 06 (green and purple) with size 9 needles. This worked up quickly.

Doesn’t Maggie looked thrilled modeling it?

I finished two dishcloths. The August Mid-Month cloth. The pattern was Ice Cream cone by Andi Worthy. I used Peaches and Creme in cream with size 6 needles.

I also completed the September KAL. The pattern was Do I Smell Cheese by Elaine Fitzpatrick. I really like her designs. I used Peaches and Cream in silver grey with size 6 needles.

I did pretty good in the last several days finishing up some projects, didn’t I?

More yarn to add to my stash

2010-08-28T18:13:00.001-05:00

What a yarn week it was. I got quite a bit of yarn this week. I had to get more colors from the Sanguine Gryphon. After finishing the Maelstrom sock, I am so in love with this yarn.

From the Loopy Ewe, I got Bugga in Familiar Bluet and Skinny Bugga in Painted Damsel.

From the Sanguine Gryphon direct, I got Red Spotted Purple Butterfly and Charaxes Tiridate both in Bugga.

I also got quite a bit of yarn from my LYS, The Knitter’s Edge. I am planning on working on squares for the Great American Afghan, so I am using Plymouth Select from Plymouth yarns in color 35 a really pretty green. Two of my other knitting friends are also going to knit this afghan. We are going to be picking our own squares from the three afghan books.

King George yarn was on sale, so I got two skeins of color 2786 (grey) to knit a hat. The yarn is a baby alpaca, merino, and cashmere mix.

And, I bought on a whim, this pretty ribbon yarn to knit two scarves. It comes out like a potato chip scarf only you don’t have to do as much knitting. I got color 08 (black and grey) and color 06 (green and purple). I am going to try to cast on for one of these scarves this week and will take pictures.

I’m was really excited to buy this cool knitting bag by Laurel Burch. It is such a big size that I needed and the colors are perfect. The price was right too. This bag will come in handy since I have so much yarn to knit up. Don’t you think?

Now, off to knit so I can post some pictures later this week.