I've managed to do something I never thought I'd ever be able to do. I've done Kitchener stitch at last! After trying one method or another to learn I've been able to do it with the help of a wonderful book I just got called Maran Illustrated Knitting and Crochet. What a terrific book this is. Very clear pictures of all the techniques, extremely clear text explaining everything. This just became my new favorite reference. Anything that can get me to do a good Kitchener stitch must be super. There are some cute patterns in the book as well. Check it out you won't be sorry.
It's been a while since I updated so let me fill you in. We had DS in for a long visit and that was just wonderful. He's doing so well. It's great to see him getting more mature more in control of himself. It was very hard to let him go when it was time for him to go back to school. I really crashed for a couple of days. Even though he's 15 now he's still my baby after all. Work is starting to pick up again. I've an assignment this week and a bunch of assignments next week. Freelance work is kind of hit and miss but this company I've hooked up with is giving me work on a regular basis so it's not too bad.
I've been listening to a lot of podcasts, and having fun with it. Get a lot more housework done this way. :) I also listen a lot when I knit. There is such a wealth of stuff out there that it's unbelievable. I'd like to bring some more crafting related podcasts to your attention. I'm going to give you the individual websites for the podcasts. If you want to know the feed for them it's best to look them up on Podcast Alley or just ask me and I'll get you the URL. Of course you can also download the files directly from the site if you want. The first is called CrafyPod. This podcast is all about different types of crafts on the last one she talked about felt mosaics which I may try as it sounded like fun. The next is Quilting Stash which is obviously about quilting. I enjoyed listening to her talk about the creative process. The last is Scrapcast which I just loved. A few years ago I tried scrapbooking and never really got into it. This podcast is so well done that it got me pulling my stuff out of storage and thinking about scrapping again. Just what I need, another hobby. Like knitting and beading aren't enough.
Speaking about beading I finally got some more supplies and made something other than stitch markers. Using some beads from my stash and some my secrect pal send I made a necklace for myself. Photo to follow as soon as I find out where DH has put the camera :).
In support of our English cousins I have added a We're not Afraid banner to this website. Feel free to steal it and do the same.
Wednesday, July 13, 2005
Wednesday, June 29, 2005
My Ball Winder Is Out To Get Me
It's true, I'm convinced of it at this point. The last two times I used it the thing ate my yarn. Got it tangled up in the gears and took delicate work to untangle it. This time it happened with my precious Koigu that my Secret Pal sent, and ended up breaking one of the skeins *sigh*. I don't know if it's my technique with the stupid thing, or it's just not a very good one but it keeps on happening. My gut feeling is that the winder just isn't very good. I just have to be ultra careful when I use it I guess. Part of the issue may also be that I don't own a swift right now so I use DD's out stretched hands most of the time. I've tried a lampshade and that works too. I guess I will have to start hinting heavily around DH as my birthday is at the end of the summer and I've a swift on my Knitpiks wishlist.
As you may have guessed I am stating work on the Koigu socks at last. Right now I'm doing a gauge swatch using the lovely bamboo #2's SP sent me. Nice yarn this Koigu, lovely pattern it knits to. But I cant help thinking it wants to be on number 1's. I have to knit some more of it to be sure. It could just be that the current pair I'm doing is on number 1's so I'm used to the feel of them. I'm using all five needles in the set which is unusual for me. I almost always only knit on four needles. I just prefer it as there are fewer to manipulate that way. Yes I know people say that they get fewer ladders with five but I am actually having more trouble with ladders on this gauge swatch then I usually have with four needles. In fact, I almost never have ladders, or they are slight and not too noticeable. Not so with five. I suppose it's from unfamiliarity with the rhythm of the work. One of these days I will bite the bullet and try two circs and check out how that works as well. I just have to have someone show me how it's done. Although I've been told that it's easy to learn form Cat Bordi's book. These socks are going to be for me. The next pair is for DH, and after that I want to make a pair for one of my brothers.
I've been bad about working on the sweater and really haven't touched it in a while. So I am mentioning it here in the hope that if I do it will get me moving. Usually when I mention a project on the blog I seem to develop a new desire to work on it, even if it's only a few rows. With the sweater it's a question of time. I just don't have it right now. Especially this week with DS in town.
Got a job doing steady merchandising work. If I've not explained about merchandising it's going into stores setting up displays, reworking displays, setting products on shelves in a particular order and related tasks. Bet you didn't know people got paid to do that did you? Well they do and I've been doing it off and on for a bit over 5 years. I will be working for a good firm that will employ me four days a week, (M-Th) 8-4 32 hours a week. In and around the area where I live. Couldn't be better. I get to be home most of the time with my daughter after school, get paid fairly well and have a three day weekend each week. Can't go wrong with this one at all. Think good thoughts for me. I don't start right away, but soon.
As you may have guessed I am stating work on the Koigu socks at last. Right now I'm doing a gauge swatch using the lovely bamboo #2's SP sent me. Nice yarn this Koigu, lovely pattern it knits to. But I cant help thinking it wants to be on number 1's. I have to knit some more of it to be sure. It could just be that the current pair I'm doing is on number 1's so I'm used to the feel of them. I'm using all five needles in the set which is unusual for me. I almost always only knit on four needles. I just prefer it as there are fewer to manipulate that way. Yes I know people say that they get fewer ladders with five but I am actually having more trouble with ladders on this gauge swatch then I usually have with four needles. In fact, I almost never have ladders, or they are slight and not too noticeable. Not so with five. I suppose it's from unfamiliarity with the rhythm of the work. One of these days I will bite the bullet and try two circs and check out how that works as well. I just have to have someone show me how it's done. Although I've been told that it's easy to learn form Cat Bordi's book. These socks are going to be for me. The next pair is for DH, and after that I want to make a pair for one of my brothers.
I've been bad about working on the sweater and really haven't touched it in a while. So I am mentioning it here in the hope that if I do it will get me moving. Usually when I mention a project on the blog I seem to develop a new desire to work on it, even if it's only a few rows. With the sweater it's a question of time. I just don't have it right now. Especially this week with DS in town.
Got a job doing steady merchandising work. If I've not explained about merchandising it's going into stores setting up displays, reworking displays, setting products on shelves in a particular order and related tasks. Bet you didn't know people got paid to do that did you? Well they do and I've been doing it off and on for a bit over 5 years. I will be working for a good firm that will employ me four days a week, (M-Th) 8-4 32 hours a week. In and around the area where I live. Couldn't be better. I get to be home most of the time with my daughter after school, get paid fairly well and have a three day weekend each week. Can't go wrong with this one at all. Think good thoughts for me. I don't start right away, but soon.
Saturday, June 25, 2005
Homecoming
DS comes home today until July 5th. I'm so excited! It will be nice to have him with us for so long. Especially since he's been having a rough time of it lately. Acting out for reasons neither we or the staff at school can figure out. Hopefully some time at home will get him out of it, that and a few days of non-stop TV. DS loves his cartoons even though he's nearly 15. Part of it is the fact that he's younger than his age due to his autism, part if it is that all autistic kids tend to have an interest area that they focus on kind of obsessively. For DS that happens to be animation. He can tell you exactly who drew Bugs Bunny, who the voice over actors are for Yu-gi-oh (his favorite currently, he collects the cards, though right now we aren't giving him any as they tend to get stolen at school *sigh*), and accurately repeat whole episodes from memory. He has books about animation that he likes to go through as well. DS's other big interest is cooking and wants to do that as a career when he's done with school. He's actually a pretty good cook too!
DD admitted to me the other day that she's been a little depressed lately and that she's been missing DS a lot. She had a good cry about it and I think she's feeling a bit better now. Just like her Dad she tends to keep things bottled up inside herself till she explodes which is just not a good thing. We've been doing a lot of things together, one is something I really recommend to you all. We've been taking out recorded versions of books I loved at her age from the library, and listening to them together. I knit away while the book talks, and she flops on a pillow on the floor. We chat about the book, listen to it, and generally just have time with each other. It's a nice way to share a book with a kid.
My iPod and I have become fast friends. It's nice to have the music and the podcasts to knit to, and I've gotten a lot of knitting done on the infamous socks as a result. No, I've not had a chance to start the Koigu ones I promise faithfully I will start them today. I am just not sure what pattern I want to do them in. I love socks but I've been doing plain ones all along and think I want to use the Koigu to branch out. I got a real nice pattern off the internet just the other day that looks like it might be the right one, but I am going to go through the book of patterns I've been saving to see first. I've been keeping a book of patterns I find in a three ring binder, and have yet to use any of them. Chicken I guess. But I know enough about socks to try them now, and the time has come to do it, so I am going to take the plunge. I also picked up some lovely Regia the other day at my LYS. I'd gone in for something else and it just called to me. What was I going to do? Poor yarn needed a home I couldn't just leave it there all alone.
DD admitted to me the other day that she's been a little depressed lately and that she's been missing DS a lot. She had a good cry about it and I think she's feeling a bit better now. Just like her Dad she tends to keep things bottled up inside herself till she explodes which is just not a good thing. We've been doing a lot of things together, one is something I really recommend to you all. We've been taking out recorded versions of books I loved at her age from the library, and listening to them together. I knit away while the book talks, and she flops on a pillow on the floor. We chat about the book, listen to it, and generally just have time with each other. It's a nice way to share a book with a kid.
My iPod and I have become fast friends. It's nice to have the music and the podcasts to knit to, and I've gotten a lot of knitting done on the infamous socks as a result. No, I've not had a chance to start the Koigu ones I promise faithfully I will start them today. I am just not sure what pattern I want to do them in. I love socks but I've been doing plain ones all along and think I want to use the Koigu to branch out. I got a real nice pattern off the internet just the other day that looks like it might be the right one, but I am going to go through the book of patterns I've been saving to see first. I've been keeping a book of patterns I find in a three ring binder, and have yet to use any of them. Chicken I guess. But I know enough about socks to try them now, and the time has come to do it, so I am going to take the plunge. I also picked up some lovely Regia the other day at my LYS. I'd gone in for something else and it just called to me. What was I going to do? Poor yarn needed a home I couldn't just leave it there all alone.
Tuesday, June 21, 2005
Back again
Sorry I've not been updating lately. I've been busy with work and while this is a good thing for my pocketbook it leaves little time for the things I love like knitting and blogging. I am posting a picture of the wonderful package that my utterly amazing Secret Pal sent to me. Two skeins of KPPPM with sock needles, two skeins of baby yarn (lots of babies in our family these days more about that in a minute), two skeins of yarn to make something for DD (she loved them just the right color for her BTW), the book Knitticisms, and three packs of beads for my new obsession of beading. I'll be sending out a package to my pal this week, but don't think I can equal this one!
The niece I made the first blanket for went into premature labor the other day and is now on total bedrest. If you can spare a kind thought for her it's appreciated. So far she is at 33 weeks and needs to go at least one more for the baby's sake. My other niece had a little boy a week ago sweet little thing for whom we had a Bris last night. Nice to see the entire family. Shame that DS couldn't be there because he loves things like this but we called him on the phone during the party and he spoke to a bunch of his uncles and aunts who haven't seen him in a while. Not as good as having him there but he seemed to like it.
I am working on the infamous socks and starting a new pair with the Koigu I just got this afternoon. I've been itching to get to it before now but the time hasn't been there. When I start a new project I like to have a block of time for it so I can work out any kinks that may show up. I'll let you all know what I think of the Koigu soon, and I promise I won't wait as long as I have this time. I am also doing some swatches for a prayer shawl my Stitch n Bitch is contributing to. One of our members has a SIL who had a premature baby and we're all doing swatches to sew into a shawl for her. I am enjoying doing them, nice little project in between other thing, and good to know it's helping someone.
DD is having her first REAL taste of middle school this week, or at least I think so. This is her first experience with finals. She is on half days but each day is a different final exam and review session. She's never had finals before and has had to learn how to study for them. The teachers have been good about providing notes and giving guidelines, but I've had to be on top of her about studying. She seemed to finally get the idea about how to review, hopefully she's done well. DS is coming home for a week and a half starting on Saturday June 25 going back on July 5. We are excited to have him for so long as he usually only stays the weekend. No idea what I'll do with him all those days, and it does mean I can't work, but that's all small potatoes against just having him with us.
To the comments: Rebecca you not only get a description you get a picture hope it was worth the wait. Theo, nice to see you. I'm doing well these days thanks for stopping by. BeccaU I think you will really like the Knitcast, don't stop there try out some others too. Email me if you want some recommendations.
That's all for now folks. Promise not so long a break next entry!
The niece I made the first blanket for went into premature labor the other day and is now on total bedrest. If you can spare a kind thought for her it's appreciated. So far she is at 33 weeks and needs to go at least one more for the baby's sake. My other niece had a little boy a week ago sweet little thing for whom we had a Bris last night. Nice to see the entire family. Shame that DS couldn't be there because he loves things like this but we called him on the phone during the party and he spoke to a bunch of his uncles and aunts who haven't seen him in a while. Not as good as having him there but he seemed to like it.
I am working on the infamous socks and starting a new pair with the Koigu I just got this afternoon. I've been itching to get to it before now but the time hasn't been there. When I start a new project I like to have a block of time for it so I can work out any kinks that may show up. I'll let you all know what I think of the Koigu soon, and I promise I won't wait as long as I have this time. I am also doing some swatches for a prayer shawl my Stitch n Bitch is contributing to. One of our members has a SIL who had a premature baby and we're all doing swatches to sew into a shawl for her. I am enjoying doing them, nice little project in between other thing, and good to know it's helping someone.
DD is having her first REAL taste of middle school this week, or at least I think so. This is her first experience with finals. She is on half days but each day is a different final exam and review session. She's never had finals before and has had to learn how to study for them. The teachers have been good about providing notes and giving guidelines, but I've had to be on top of her about studying. She seemed to finally get the idea about how to review, hopefully she's done well. DS is coming home for a week and a half starting on Saturday June 25 going back on July 5. We are excited to have him for so long as he usually only stays the weekend. No idea what I'll do with him all those days, and it does mean I can't work, but that's all small potatoes against just having him with us.
To the comments: Rebecca you not only get a description you get a picture hope it was worth the wait. Theo, nice to see you. I'm doing well these days thanks for stopping by. BeccaU I think you will really like the Knitcast, don't stop there try out some others too. Email me if you want some recommendations.
That's all for now folks. Promise not so long a break next entry!
Sunday, June 05, 2005
Looking Good
Well I'm out of my funk. Didn't really last too long but once again I've been busy with not too much time to post so I couldn't let you all know I was doing better. Thanks to all for the comments and especially to my Secrect Pal who now has me all excited! I am really looking forward to the entire Pal experience and cannot wait to get out and shop for my Pal this week. Pretty good idea what goodies to get for her first package.
DS bounced back from his homesickness in short order. It gets easier for him each time I think, as it should be. He really is growing up. He asked us to bring his CD player and some CD's with us on our next visit. Just like a teen, needs his tunes :). In his case this means a heavy dose of Jazz, a habit picked up while studying trumpet.
Speaking of tunes I am about to aquire an IPod. Not sure if I am getting a mini or a regular one yet probably a regular one. Mostly though I'll be listening to podcasts. Ever heard of them? These are kind of like radio programs in the form of mp3 files that people put up on the net, much in the way that people put up blogs. One of the very good ones is Knitcast, which as you might have guessed is about knitting. The woman who does it has interviewed Lilly Chin, the editor of Interweave Knits, The Yarn Harlot. The interviews are all interesting and well done. You can download and listen to the shows even without an Ipod, your computer can do all the work so check it out. If you want to get heavier into podcasting you'll need to get Itunes and a program like Ipodder, which is my personal favorite. Ipodder will collect all the feeds you choose and set them up as playlists in Itunes. Then you can move them around or delete them, listen to them when you want or if you have an Ipod transfer them to that device. There is a podcast for everything and I've been having a blast checking it all out. Listening to it all on my computer so anyone without an Ipod can do the same. All the programs I mention are free BTW. Before I leave this topic completely I want to encorage you all to click on the Folk Alley button on the sidebar. Wonderful totally free folk music will come streaming your way 24 hours a day. Check it out for a change of pace that you will be sure to love.
I've removed the little mood icon from my sidebar. It wasn't really indicating my mood on a day to day basis and it was too much of a pain to constantly change it so I just took it off.
DS bounced back from his homesickness in short order. It gets easier for him each time I think, as it should be. He really is growing up. He asked us to bring his CD player and some CD's with us on our next visit. Just like a teen, needs his tunes :). In his case this means a heavy dose of Jazz, a habit picked up while studying trumpet.
Speaking of tunes I am about to aquire an IPod. Not sure if I am getting a mini or a regular one yet probably a regular one. Mostly though I'll be listening to podcasts. Ever heard of them? These are kind of like radio programs in the form of mp3 files that people put up on the net, much in the way that people put up blogs. One of the very good ones is Knitcast, which as you might have guessed is about knitting. The woman who does it has interviewed Lilly Chin, the editor of Interweave Knits, The Yarn Harlot. The interviews are all interesting and well done. You can download and listen to the shows even without an Ipod, your computer can do all the work so check it out. If you want to get heavier into podcasting you'll need to get Itunes and a program like Ipodder, which is my personal favorite. Ipodder will collect all the feeds you choose and set them up as playlists in Itunes. Then you can move them around or delete them, listen to them when you want or if you have an Ipod transfer them to that device. There is a podcast for everything and I've been having a blast checking it all out. Listening to it all on my computer so anyone without an Ipod can do the same. All the programs I mention are free BTW. Before I leave this topic completely I want to encorage you all to click on the Folk Alley button on the sidebar. Wonderful totally free folk music will come streaming your way 24 hours a day. Check it out for a change of pace that you will be sure to love.
I've removed the little mood icon from my sidebar. It wasn't really indicating my mood on a day to day basis and it was too much of a pain to constantly change it so I just took it off.
Wednesday, June 01, 2005
Singing the Blues
Bit down in the dumps today. DS was up for the holiday weekend and I am really missing him now that he's back at school. Especially since I spoke to him last night and he's sounding homesick. That happens to him after we see him. I suppose he will get used to it in time but it's still hard. He's been at school now just a little less than six months. I know that being away at this school is best for him but it's so hard at times. He has special needs and we couldn't find the right program for him here near to home so he goes to school three hours away and lives in the dorm. Really a house, with nine other boys. He has his own room and it's a wonderful place and great academically. He's made progress since being there. But I'm still a mommy and a mommy will miss their baby when he's away. Even when said baby is starting a mustache, is 5 foot 8 inches and has started to get a deeper voice.
I have one ear left do to for the bunny rabbit I'm making for my nephew and then I have to make the little sweater that goes with it. Pictures will go on the blog when finished. The blanket for my niece is also done. No picture for that as it's the same as the last blanket and I think it would be redundant to post this picture as well. I'm going to give it to her on Sunday with the rabbit. The socks haven't been touched recently but I think I'll get to them this week. Anyone interested in a progress photo on them and the sweater?
Tomorrow I have another freelance assignment to do which may turn into a long term relationship with this client, so keep your fingers and toes crossed for me.
I have one ear left do to for the bunny rabbit I'm making for my nephew and then I have to make the little sweater that goes with it. Pictures will go on the blog when finished. The blanket for my niece is also done. No picture for that as it's the same as the last blanket and I think it would be redundant to post this picture as well. I'm going to give it to her on Sunday with the rabbit. The socks haven't been touched recently but I think I'll get to them this week. Anyone interested in a progress photo on them and the sweater?
Tomorrow I have another freelance assignment to do which may turn into a long term relationship with this client, so keep your fingers and toes crossed for me.
Sunday, May 29, 2005
Hello Again
I've not been around here much lately because lucky for me my little business has been busy the last week or so. I've been working so much there hasn't been much time for knitting. That's good and bad. Good for the pocket, bad for the soul. But I've managed to sneak in some time on the baby blanket I need to finish by June 5. I only hope I can get it done, because I keep making mistakes on it, and stupid ones too. *Sigh* Well today and tomorrow will be downtime so I'll put in some time and make a real push on it.
Heard from my Secret Pal today. Reminding me I'd never put up my questionnaire. So here it is sorry I've not done it before. Can't wait to hear who I'll be sending to!
1. Are you a yarn snob (do you prefer higher quality and/or natural fibers)? Do you avoid Red Heart and Lion Brand? Or is it all the same to you?
I'm not a fiber snob, but don't like plastic feeling stuff.
2. Do you spin? Crochet?
I know how to crochet but don't really do it, I don't like the look of it much. I've always wanted to spin but can't seem to get the hang of it.
3. Do you have any allergies? (smoke, pets, fibers, perfume, etc.)
I have problems with smoke.
4. How long have you been knitting?
I've knitted for nearly 40 years since I was 6 or so I'll be 45 this summer (I'm not shy about my age I think that being shy about your age is silly)
5. Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list?
I have an Amazon wishlist I plan to create a knitpicks one too so check that one also
6. What's your favorite scent? (for candles, bath products etc.)
spicy and woody things
7. Do you have a sweet tooth?
Unfortunately for my hips, yes I do. I love sour candy and chocolate
8. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do?
I like to bead
9. What kind of music do you like? Can your computer/stereo play MP3s? (if your buddy wants to make you a CD)
I like classic rock, jazz, classical, folk and world music. I can play mp3 and am about to buy an Ipod
10. What's your favorite color? Or--do you have a color family/season/palette you prefer? Any colors you just can't stand?
I like green especially darker shades and love all earth tones. Autumn shades are faves in general. I don't really like pastels
11. What is your family situation? Do you have any pets?
Married two kids a boy 14 a girl 11 I have a guinea pig
12. What are your life dreams? (really stretching it here, I know)
I'd love to be able to go back to school and study fiber and design though I don't know if I have any talent, I would also love to learn to weave and spin and dye my own fibers. I've like to be an artist dealing with fiber all the time and teach people how to work with them as well. I imagine having a studio out back and a shop out front in some small New England town.
13. What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with?
I don't have a favorite brand but 100% wool yarns hand painted, space dyed, variegated or self patterned. I love to see the patterns come out.
14. What fibers do you absolutely *not* like?
Mohair
15. What is/are your current knitting obsession/s?
socks and baby stuff
16. What is/are your favorite item/s to knit?
Socks
17. What are you knitting right now?
a baby blanket, a sweater for myself, a pair of socks also for myself, and a bunny for my nephew
18. What do you think about ponchos?
Not much
19. Do you prefer straight or circular needles?
depends on what I'm making and how many stitches I have. I use both
20. Bamboo, aluminum, plastic?
Bamboo
21. Are you a sock knitter?
YES!
22. How did you learn to knit?
My mother taught me and some others refined the technique
23. How old is your oldest UFO?
6 years
24. What is your favorite animated character or a favorite animal/bird?
Penguins
25. What is your favorite holiday?
Fourth of July or Passover
26. Is there anything that you collect?
Penguins
27. What knitting magazine subscriptions do you have?
None
28. Any books out there you are dying to get your hands on?
Cool Socks, Warm Feet by Lucy Neatby
That's about it. More knitting content to come!
Heard from my Secret Pal today. Reminding me I'd never put up my questionnaire. So here it is sorry I've not done it before. Can't wait to hear who I'll be sending to!
1. Are you a yarn snob (do you prefer higher quality and/or natural fibers)? Do you avoid Red Heart and Lion Brand? Or is it all the same to you?
I'm not a fiber snob, but don't like plastic feeling stuff.
2. Do you spin? Crochet?
I know how to crochet but don't really do it, I don't like the look of it much. I've always wanted to spin but can't seem to get the hang of it.
3. Do you have any allergies? (smoke, pets, fibers, perfume, etc.)
I have problems with smoke.
4. How long have you been knitting?
I've knitted for nearly 40 years since I was 6 or so I'll be 45 this summer (I'm not shy about my age I think that being shy about your age is silly)
5. Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list?
I have an Amazon wishlist I plan to create a knitpicks one too so check that one also
6. What's your favorite scent? (for candles, bath products etc.)
spicy and woody things
7. Do you have a sweet tooth?
Unfortunately for my hips, yes I do. I love sour candy and chocolate
8. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do?
I like to bead
9. What kind of music do you like? Can your computer/stereo play MP3s? (if your buddy wants to make you a CD)
I like classic rock, jazz, classical, folk and world music. I can play mp3 and am about to buy an Ipod
10. What's your favorite color? Or--do you have a color family/season/palette you prefer? Any colors you just can't stand?
I like green especially darker shades and love all earth tones. Autumn shades are faves in general. I don't really like pastels
11. What is your family situation? Do you have any pets?
Married two kids a boy 14 a girl 11 I have a guinea pig
12. What are your life dreams? (really stretching it here, I know)
I'd love to be able to go back to school and study fiber and design though I don't know if I have any talent, I would also love to learn to weave and spin and dye my own fibers. I've like to be an artist dealing with fiber all the time and teach people how to work with them as well. I imagine having a studio out back and a shop out front in some small New England town.
13. What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with?
I don't have a favorite brand but 100% wool yarns hand painted, space dyed, variegated or self patterned. I love to see the patterns come out.
14. What fibers do you absolutely *not* like?
Mohair
15. What is/are your current knitting obsession/s?
socks and baby stuff
16. What is/are your favorite item/s to knit?
Socks
17. What are you knitting right now?
a baby blanket, a sweater for myself, a pair of socks also for myself, and a bunny for my nephew
18. What do you think about ponchos?
Not much
19. Do you prefer straight or circular needles?
depends on what I'm making and how many stitches I have. I use both
20. Bamboo, aluminum, plastic?
Bamboo
21. Are you a sock knitter?
YES!
22. How did you learn to knit?
My mother taught me and some others refined the technique
23. How old is your oldest UFO?
6 years
24. What is your favorite animated character or a favorite animal/bird?
Penguins
25. What is your favorite holiday?
Fourth of July or Passover
26. Is there anything that you collect?
Penguins
27. What knitting magazine subscriptions do you have?
None
28. Any books out there you are dying to get your hands on?
Cool Socks, Warm Feet by Lucy Neatby
That's about it. More knitting content to come!
Wednesday, May 18, 2005
Crazy Days Indeed
I have been running crazy the last few days trying to get a home business I used to have up and running again. Since it looks like the job I had at the clothing store is not going to pan out, I figure I will try and work for myself again. I used to do something called merchandising. It involves going to stores and setting up displays, cutting in new products, and anything involved with making products look good. Sometimes you also do demo work like I'll be doing this weekend. (I'll be demonstrating a product in Home Depot for a few hours on Sat and Sun. Good money too) I occasionally do mystery shopping as well. That's fun but hard work to get the assignments. You have to constantly be on your toes looking around the net and putting in applications with the mystery shopping companies. I did OK with this before hope I will again. I already have some work and it's only been a few days looking for it.
I've been having tons of fun with the stitch markers and have even branched out into making earrings for myself and DD. I have been so busy that I still haven't gone and gotten the batteries for the camera. I swear I will get them before the end of the week and will post pics of the earrings and some of the knitting I've done.
I've been having tons of fun with the stitch markers and have even branched out into making earrings for myself and DD. I have been so busy that I still haven't gone and gotten the batteries for the camera. I swear I will get them before the end of the week and will post pics of the earrings and some of the knitting I've done.
Sunday, May 15, 2005
The Beat Goes On
I think I got everyone who told me I missed them in my blogroll, please if you stop by and I don't have you in my blogroll leave me a comment I don't want to miss you! Wow kmckiernan I thought my blogroll was long till I saw yours! Nice blog BTW! I'm horrible about leaving comments so if I didn't please forgive me. Kitt you are so right I am very lucky with DD, she has a good sense about things and is only 11. I call her my fashion consultant and often take her with me when I buy clothes.
Well looks like the job is going to go by the wayside. Seems like I was judged by my performance on the first day. Because I wasn't totally on spot right out of the gate I wasn't given a chance. I'm not that upset. Why would I want to work for someone who would be like that? What I am doing is trying to reactivate a freelance business I had a few years ago and see have that works out. I only need part time income so it's not really that bad. But it does piss me off that I didn't get a fair chance to show my stuff.
Mothers Day was pretty good despite having to work the stupid job for a few hours. I got a gift card to AC Moore from DH, and DD gave me a candle and candle holder. DS gave me my gift this past weekend when we saw him at school, a necklace that he earned by turning in good behavior points (I was very proud). We went out to dinner at a Japanese restaurant where I ate entirely too much Sushi. I had a great time.
Knitting wise I finally got back to the sock. Unfortunately frogging it back and reknitting stretched out some of the work and I have gusset holes now. Not too large so I can stitch them up real easy when the sock is done. I will post a photo as soon as I get new batteries in the camera. I have also made some progress on the sweater. Finally settling on a garter stitch border for the bottom. The work seems to be coming out nice and even so there should be little frogging in my future (she said hopefully). I am also 3/4 with the baby blanket I am making for my niece. This is in addition to the one already posted to the blog. Same pattern different color. I want to finish it by June 5th when I have a Baby Shower to go to that the recipient of the blanket will be attending (it's not her shower). I am also making a small stuffed bunny with a sweater for my little grand nephew. I wasn't able to make him a blanket as I had tendonitis at the time so I want to make him a little something to make up for it.
Tonight I met some friends from my Stitch n Bitch at AC Moore to take advantage of their 25% off sale. We had lots of fun fondling yarn. I blew the entire gift card on the following a needle roll (desperately needed), The book Knit One Felt Two, yarn and needles for the bunny for my nephew, and some supplies for stitch markers that my friend Dani inspired (or enabled take your pick) me to get. I am really looking forward to playing with the beads. I've done a little work with them in the past but just with safety pin bead pins so this is kind of new to me. Just what I need another hobby to obsess over!
Well looks like the job is going to go by the wayside. Seems like I was judged by my performance on the first day. Because I wasn't totally on spot right out of the gate I wasn't given a chance. I'm not that upset. Why would I want to work for someone who would be like that? What I am doing is trying to reactivate a freelance business I had a few years ago and see have that works out. I only need part time income so it's not really that bad. But it does piss me off that I didn't get a fair chance to show my stuff.
Mothers Day was pretty good despite having to work the stupid job for a few hours. I got a gift card to AC Moore from DH, and DD gave me a candle and candle holder. DS gave me my gift this past weekend when we saw him at school, a necklace that he earned by turning in good behavior points (I was very proud). We went out to dinner at a Japanese restaurant where I ate entirely too much Sushi. I had a great time.
Knitting wise I finally got back to the sock. Unfortunately frogging it back and reknitting stretched out some of the work and I have gusset holes now. Not too large so I can stitch them up real easy when the sock is done. I will post a photo as soon as I get new batteries in the camera. I have also made some progress on the sweater. Finally settling on a garter stitch border for the bottom. The work seems to be coming out nice and even so there should be little frogging in my future (she said hopefully). I am also 3/4 with the baby blanket I am making for my niece. This is in addition to the one already posted to the blog. Same pattern different color. I want to finish it by June 5th when I have a Baby Shower to go to that the recipient of the blanket will be attending (it's not her shower). I am also making a small stuffed bunny with a sweater for my little grand nephew. I wasn't able to make him a blanket as I had tendonitis at the time so I want to make him a little something to make up for it.
Tonight I met some friends from my Stitch n Bitch at AC Moore to take advantage of their 25% off sale. We had lots of fun fondling yarn. I blew the entire gift card on the following a needle roll (desperately needed), The book Knit One Felt Two, yarn and needles for the bunny for my nephew, and some supplies for stitch markers that my friend Dani inspired (or enabled take your pick) me to get. I am really looking forward to playing with the beads. I've done a little work with them in the past but just with safety pin bead pins so this is kind of new to me. Just what I need another hobby to obsess over!
Monday, May 09, 2005
Probably True
Your Linguistic Profile: |
50% General American English |
30% Yankee |
15% Dixie |
5% Upper Midwestern |
0% Midwestern |
Thursday, May 05, 2005
The Tale of the Red Sweater
I now have total respect for all designers. The red sweater has been through so many changes that it's almost silly. So many swatches and so much thought before it was even started. Now last night, after 10 inches of the back was done I decided that it just looked awful. Not my best knitting. Too uneven, too many loose stitches. DD looked at it and said "Mom you are going to make yourself nuts every time you put it on. Rip the thing out." So out came the ball winder for the first time (this shouldn't be a total loss) and frog it I did. Back to the original concept of a garter stitch bottom and stockinette body with the same modified drop sleeves. (garter stitch bottom was DD's idea she hated the 2x2 rib I ended up with) Yes I am still actually enjoying this. (or at least I am telling myself that) I also swear I am getting back to the socks this afternoon.
The other day I realized that there were over 80 blogs on my list of blogs I read. No, I don't read them all every day. That would leave me little time to do anything else let alone knit. What I do is use a service called bloglines. It lets you know when a blog has been updated so all you have to do is go to that blog. It takes a little time each day and you get to read a lot of good stuff. What I am trying to do is put together a comprehensive list of knitting blogs, so if you know one that I don't have and it's a good one, or if I don't have yours please send me the link in a comment. Thanks!
The other day I realized that there were over 80 blogs on my list of blogs I read. No, I don't read them all every day. That would leave me little time to do anything else let alone knit. What I do is use a service called bloglines. It lets you know when a blog has been updated so all you have to do is go to that blog. It takes a little time each day and you get to read a lot of good stuff. What I am trying to do is put together a comprehensive list of knitting blogs, so if you know one that I don't have and it's a good one, or if I don't have yours please send me the link in a comment. Thanks!
Monday, May 02, 2005
Odds and Ends
So far the job is going well. I spent a lot of time roaming the store trying to find a place to put things, but that will change as I learn the lay of the land. I don't have a lot of hours now, but that's par for the course this time of the year in retail. Suits me fine more time to knit :)
I've been having trouble with the socks I'm making myself yet again. This is the same pair I posted about the other day. First I had to frog sock number two since I found a major mistake. Then I dropped a stitch on sock number one just as I started the gusset. The sock gods do not seem to want this pair completed, but I am not giving up. I will let them sit for a day or so and then forge on.
I have finally started the red pullover sweater that I'm making out of KnitPicks yarn for the Knit Red Knit Along. First I tried it with a garter stitch edge rather than using a rib stitch but decided I didn't like the look so I frogged it back and am starting over. It's an interesting process working on this piece. Not exactly designing from scratch, not working from a complete pattern either. I am enjoying making all the choices and design decisions more than I thought I would. This is a simple sweater since it's my first time doing something like this. Stockinette stitch all the way through (I ditched the moss stitch I was debating) roll neck, modified drop shoulder. Progress photos will be posted.
Got a surprise in the mail today. A dishcloth round robin I am in that I had forgotten about. Some very nice cloths in there and even a soap sack. The idea is that you put in a couple of your designs and take out some of the designs in the robin you like. You are supposed to put a note on your cloths but it looks like not everyone did. Fortunately I did knit ahead on this one and have some dishcloths to put in. I happen to like doing dishcloths from time to time. They're easy and work up fast. A nice change from the stuff I usually make. I also like using them. Once you use a knitted dishcloth or washcloth you are spoiled forever. DD loves the one I made for her and I love the ones I use in the kitchen. Now some people in this group I mentioned really take it far. Knitting dishcloths with state maps on them and matching them to holidays. I don't go that far, though I've been known to do the odd cabled cloth, but I do enjoy making them at times.
I've been having trouble with the socks I'm making myself yet again. This is the same pair I posted about the other day. First I had to frog sock number two since I found a major mistake. Then I dropped a stitch on sock number one just as I started the gusset. The sock gods do not seem to want this pair completed, but I am not giving up. I will let them sit for a day or so and then forge on.
I have finally started the red pullover sweater that I'm making out of KnitPicks yarn for the Knit Red Knit Along. First I tried it with a garter stitch edge rather than using a rib stitch but decided I didn't like the look so I frogged it back and am starting over. It's an interesting process working on this piece. Not exactly designing from scratch, not working from a complete pattern either. I am enjoying making all the choices and design decisions more than I thought I would. This is a simple sweater since it's my first time doing something like this. Stockinette stitch all the way through (I ditched the moss stitch I was debating) roll neck, modified drop shoulder. Progress photos will be posted.
Got a surprise in the mail today. A dishcloth round robin I am in that I had forgotten about. Some very nice cloths in there and even a soap sack. The idea is that you put in a couple of your designs and take out some of the designs in the robin you like. You are supposed to put a note on your cloths but it looks like not everyone did. Fortunately I did knit ahead on this one and have some dishcloths to put in. I happen to like doing dishcloths from time to time. They're easy and work up fast. A nice change from the stuff I usually make. I also like using them. Once you use a knitted dishcloth or washcloth you are spoiled forever. DD loves the one I made for her and I love the ones I use in the kitchen. Now some people in this group I mentioned really take it far. Knitting dishcloths with state maps on them and matching them to holidays. I don't go that far, though I've been known to do the odd cabled cloth, but I do enjoy making them at times.
Thursday, April 28, 2005
A Difficult Week
This was a hard week for me. I recently accepted a job just because I thought I'd get it not because I thought it was suited to me, or because I wanted it, or even that I thought I'd be good at it. I had doubts about it from the start. I was a merchandiser before, which is what this job entailed. That means you go into stores, set up displays, and make sure the product is out for the consumer. This company had been represented to be as a garden and lawn products company, then I find out that a lot of what they sell is insecticides, things to kill termites, and such. I was being asked to put this stuff out, (which gave me the creeps especially when something leaked on me and I was told don't worry about it) and to tell people how to use it. Now I am someone who doesn't kill things. I take bugs outside, I don't step on them. I try to eat vegetarian as much as I can and would likely do it all the time if DH would come along with me. Well anyway I was unhappy. I also had to do way more travel than I thought I'd have to do, the boxes were way heavier than I thought they were going to be, and they expected me to work alone sooner than I felt comfortable. All around I felt stuck and over my head. Then out of the blue comes a call from this store I'd applied to. I thought I'd lost out on the job from them but apparently I was wrong. A lifeline in a dark night! Of course I grabbed at it. Now I feel bad about quitting Job #1 so soon, but better for all concerned if I go as soon as I realize it's not working I think. I hope that this new job works out for me, and I think it will. A nice high end woman's clothing store in a mall near my house. More my speed.
Knittingwise I haven't gotten much done the last few days as you might imagine. I've worked on niece #2's baby blanket, did some work on my socks, and did some swatching on the red sweater I want to make for myself. DD has declared that she doesn't think a moss stitch sweater will look good, I'm still not sure. I'm divided between moss on the whole thing, moss on the body, stockinette on the sleeves, or stockinette on the whole thing. Roll neck , garter stitch bottom most likely. Opinions?
Knittingwise I haven't gotten much done the last few days as you might imagine. I've worked on niece #2's baby blanket, did some work on my socks, and did some swatching on the red sweater I want to make for myself. DD has declared that she doesn't think a moss stitch sweater will look good, I'm still not sure. I'm divided between moss on the whole thing, moss on the body, stockinette on the sleeves, or stockinette on the whole thing. Roll neck , garter stitch bottom most likely. Opinions?
Sunday, April 24, 2005
The Continuing Tale Of The Sock Needles
I was so proud of myself for coming up with a solution for the lost needle wasn't I? Well the knitting gods punish the proud. Not long after posting that entry I promptly stepped on the needles and broke one. I ran out to try and find a new set before picking up DH at the train, but the Michaels I went to had hardly any DP's. So on the way to dinner we went to AC Moore and I got two sets one for each sock so I could work on both at the same time. My family didn't complain one bit or think I was crazy at all. Just Mom being Mom.
Did the swatch for my sweater and boy do I love this KnitPicks yarn! So soft and nice to knit with. Though I realized this AM I will not be able to do too much on the sweater this week. I haven't done much on the baby blanket lately and really have to make a push on it. The baby is due in June and I want the thing done well in time for the kid's arrival. There may be a shower after all and I'd like to be able to give the blanket at the shower.
My DD has been envious of Aibhlinn and wants one for herself. I have some Tahki Cotton Classic in my stash that may work for it if she likes the color. I figure I'll cast on 2/3 as many stitches, make it shorter, and do the same stitch pattern. It can't be too hard to work out. I don't think that Aibhlinn is a very difficult pattern at all. I know a lot of other knitters have had trouble with it, but I found it to be fun and easy to do. Sure I tinked it a couple of times but that was really about it, save for one small incident getting it started. Cotton Classic is a cabled cotton yarn, mercernized, it should look like nice and drape well. Best of all is I have no memory of buying this yarn and have no idea what I got it for.
Not to be out done DS has asked for socks, and ought to be interesting to knit for since he has huge feet. Boy is only 14 and has size 11 feet. I have a ball of Magic Stripes in the house I was going to use for him and as I type this realize that for size 11 one ball may not be enough I ought to get another just in case.
Did the swatch for my sweater and boy do I love this KnitPicks yarn! So soft and nice to knit with. Though I realized this AM I will not be able to do too much on the sweater this week. I haven't done much on the baby blanket lately and really have to make a push on it. The baby is due in June and I want the thing done well in time for the kid's arrival. There may be a shower after all and I'd like to be able to give the blanket at the shower.
My DD has been envious of Aibhlinn and wants one for herself. I have some Tahki Cotton Classic in my stash that may work for it if she likes the color. I figure I'll cast on 2/3 as many stitches, make it shorter, and do the same stitch pattern. It can't be too hard to work out. I don't think that Aibhlinn is a very difficult pattern at all. I know a lot of other knitters have had trouble with it, but I found it to be fun and easy to do. Sure I tinked it a couple of times but that was really about it, save for one small incident getting it started. Cotton Classic is a cabled cotton yarn, mercernized, it should look like nice and drape well. Best of all is I have no memory of buying this yarn and have no idea what I got it for.
Not to be out done DS has asked for socks, and ought to be interesting to knit for since he has huge feet. Boy is only 14 and has size 11 feet. I have a ball of Magic Stripes in the house I was going to use for him and as I type this realize that for size 11 one ball may not be enough I ought to get another just in case.
Friday, April 22, 2005
How I Know I'm Obsessed
DS goes to a boarding school for special needs children. When he comes home for a visit I meet him at Penn Station in New York and go home on the Long Island Rail Road. Like any good knitter, I was certainly not going to let all that idle time go by without a project in hand so I took the socks I'm knitting for myself right now along. When I got on the train I discovered, to my horror, that I'd lost one of the needles. I was so upset. Two hours of train time (one each way) with no knitting. What was I going to do? Then I remembered that I'd left the larger needles I'd started the sock with in the bag (I cast on and do some of the leg in a larger needle than the rest of the sock to allow for calf shaping). So I found the end of the second skein, the one that hadn't been started yet, cast on, on the larger needles, and was happily knitting away in minutes. Lucky me the needles I am using come in sets of 5 and I knit in sets of four so I can now go on with sock number one as well. Of course this means I need to get another set of #1 needles so I can do both socks at the same time, but what's another set of needles right? (and lord knows what else by the time I leave the store)
I have good news to report. I am once again among the employed! Yes folks I finally got a job. The second one that I mentioned came through and a good thing as it is for way more money that the first one I went after. I think it will be a lot of fun and I am really looking forward to it. DD is a little upset, but I told her I will most likely still be home in the afternoon, as I will be starting work early in the morning. (the only draw back) Her main concern is being picked up from school the one day a week she is there late for a club. She hates the late bus.
As I said DS is in for a visit as it is Passover. It's so nice to see how well DS is doing. Everyday he grows, gets better, more mature and in control of himself. Having him far away at school is hard, but it's the best thing we have ever done for him. In so far as Passover goes, we don't make too big a deal out of the holiday. DS reacts badly to change and if you observe Passover strictly you have to make a lot of changes. Mostly, we just have a nice dinner on the first two nights, see friends and such. A quiet time to be together. I am being smart, courtesy of DH's aunt. We are getting dinner brought in from a Kosher Deli in the area. We did this last year and the food was fabulous, best of all I didn't have to spend days in the kitchen getting things ready. I still have to make one or two small things but most everything else is done for me. This folks is the way to live, a big family dinner with no fuss at all.
My KnitPicks order came today. I am soooo happy with the yarn I got, although I now realize I should have gotten a little more and will probably have to do the sweater at 5 sts to the inch. I'd rather go for a finer gauge but this will be just fine. I totally love the Knitter's Handy Book of Sweater Patterns, and while the Cable Needle Freedom book is really a booklet, and pricy as a result, it's a fascinating technique and I am a technique whore so it's OK. The yarn is going to be a modified drop shoulder sweater with a rolled crew neck. Simple, as I've not done a sweater in years. Also I want to get to know the yarn. I've not decided if I will just do a plain stockinette stitch or perhaps a seed stitch instead. Most likely I'll keep it plain. For some reason I am nervous about the sweater. DH tells me that if I can do socks I can do a sweater, so do my knitting friends. I guess I will just have to trust myself.
I have good news to report. I am once again among the employed! Yes folks I finally got a job. The second one that I mentioned came through and a good thing as it is for way more money that the first one I went after. I think it will be a lot of fun and I am really looking forward to it. DD is a little upset, but I told her I will most likely still be home in the afternoon, as I will be starting work early in the morning. (the only draw back) Her main concern is being picked up from school the one day a week she is there late for a club. She hates the late bus.
As I said DS is in for a visit as it is Passover. It's so nice to see how well DS is doing. Everyday he grows, gets better, more mature and in control of himself. Having him far away at school is hard, but it's the best thing we have ever done for him. In so far as Passover goes, we don't make too big a deal out of the holiday. DS reacts badly to change and if you observe Passover strictly you have to make a lot of changes. Mostly, we just have a nice dinner on the first two nights, see friends and such. A quiet time to be together. I am being smart, courtesy of DH's aunt. We are getting dinner brought in from a Kosher Deli in the area. We did this last year and the food was fabulous, best of all I didn't have to spend days in the kitchen getting things ready. I still have to make one or two small things but most everything else is done for me. This folks is the way to live, a big family dinner with no fuss at all.
My KnitPicks order came today. I am soooo happy with the yarn I got, although I now realize I should have gotten a little more and will probably have to do the sweater at 5 sts to the inch. I'd rather go for a finer gauge but this will be just fine. I totally love the Knitter's Handy Book of Sweater Patterns, and while the Cable Needle Freedom book is really a booklet, and pricy as a result, it's a fascinating technique and I am a technique whore so it's OK. The yarn is going to be a modified drop shoulder sweater with a rolled crew neck. Simple, as I've not done a sweater in years. Also I want to get to know the yarn. I've not decided if I will just do a plain stockinette stitch or perhaps a seed stitch instead. Most likely I'll keep it plain. For some reason I am nervous about the sweater. DH tells me that if I can do socks I can do a sweater, so do my knitting friends. I guess I will just have to trust myself.
Thursday, April 21, 2005
Wednesday, April 20, 2005
Holding Pattern
I am still waiting to hear about that job. The people at my old job have not called back the woman at the new one yet. Honestly I don't know why they haven't and why she doesn't try calling them again. But the good news is that I may have another job at more money before this one comes up. It's doing something called merchandising which I've done before. You go to various stores and set up displays, educate the people in the store about the products and then move on. Nice thing is that you make your own hours and are really your own boss. We'll see what happens.
At least my knitting life is not in a holding pattern. I've got 2 1/2 inches to do on Aibhlinn before I have the edging. Thanks to everyone for all the nice comments! You people make me blush. knitnana bugged me for a picture now I'm bugging her! I want to see your Aibhlinn the heck with the life lines! Yes Rebecca I am very excited about the KnitPicks order. I have heard so much about this yarn I cannot wait to get it into my hot little hands. It has been years since I've done a sweater and I am looking forward to doing this one. You are responsible for this one, at least in part, you know. After hearing about the Knit Red Along from you at SnB, I decided on doing the sweater for it. I got a shade of cranberry red just for it. I plan on a simple drop shoulder with a roll neck. The item, aside from the yarn, that I most want to see from this order is a book called Cable Needle Freedom. It's a self published book that teaches you how to do cables without the cable needle. She starts off with swatches then goes to a hat and also has socks and a sweater in the book. I am really excited about trying the technique and yes Rebecca I will bring it one Thursday to show to Justin.(who is obsessed with cables)
Speaking of Justin, who is the sole male member of my SnB group, he sent an interesting message out that I'd like to mention here. Someone on the net is trying to get a World Wide Knit in Public Day started. Sounds like a fun idea and I thought I'd pass it along. I've put the button on my site. You may take it if you like, put please don't link to it.
At least my knitting life is not in a holding pattern. I've got 2 1/2 inches to do on Aibhlinn before I have the edging. Thanks to everyone for all the nice comments! You people make me blush. knitnana bugged me for a picture now I'm bugging her! I want to see your Aibhlinn the heck with the life lines! Yes Rebecca I am very excited about the KnitPicks order. I have heard so much about this yarn I cannot wait to get it into my hot little hands. It has been years since I've done a sweater and I am looking forward to doing this one. You are responsible for this one, at least in part, you know. After hearing about the Knit Red Along from you at SnB, I decided on doing the sweater for it. I got a shade of cranberry red just for it. I plan on a simple drop shoulder with a roll neck. The item, aside from the yarn, that I most want to see from this order is a book called Cable Needle Freedom. It's a self published book that teaches you how to do cables without the cable needle. She starts off with swatches then goes to a hat and also has socks and a sweater in the book. I am really excited about trying the technique and yes Rebecca I will bring it one Thursday to show to Justin.(who is obsessed with cables)
Speaking of Justin, who is the sole male member of my SnB group, he sent an interesting message out that I'd like to mention here. Someone on the net is trying to get a World Wide Knit in Public Day started. Sounds like a fun idea and I thought I'd pass it along. I've put the button on my site. You may take it if you like, put please don't link to it.
Saturday, April 16, 2005
Waiting
I applied for a job the other day and yesterday had an interview. It went very well and they all but offered it to me. Now I just have to wait for them to call my last job and check my references. I am sooooo nervous. I don't see any reason for the last job to say anything bad. I always did my best and left on good terms. This new place is very nice, a clothing store (I considered the Michaels nearby but the pay stunk LOL) and the people are just lovely. What is truly sick is while I am sitting there, I look at the lockers, where the workers put their stuff, and calculate which of my knitting bags will fit in the locker. Now if that's not one for the Yarn Harlot's book I don't know what is. (if you don't have this gem yet go buy it now!)
I measured Aibhlinn last night again and it's got about 6 inches to go! I am so excited. I think if I push I can finish it this week, but more likely next. I still have some Children in Common socks I want to get out before the week is done. This is a very worthwhile organization I really urge you all to check out. They are always looking for knitted items even in between trips like the one they are a just about to make. Please consider making a donation.
I am biting the bullet and ordering 16 skeins of Wool of the Andes from Knit Picks this weekend. At Rebecca's suggestion (why didn't I think of this) I looked through the catalog and found a sweater I thought would fit me and went with that recommendation. The thing with the Knitter's Handy Book of Patterns is that they assume you already have the yarn and you are looking for a pattern. There is another companion thing that has suggested amounts of yarn for various projects that I am now getting as well. I really do love this book and I am even getting the one the same author has for sweaters. I suggest it to everyone, as I use it for small things all the time, it's wonderful. You can just take a gauge swatch, go to the book, look up let's say, mittens under your gauge and viola a pattern. So the Knit Picks order is going to be the yarn, the Knitter's Handy Book of Sweater Patterns, The Knitter's Handy Guide to Yarn Requirements, and a book called Cable Needle Freedom that teaches you to do cables without the cable needle. I was able to do all of this, (plus a ball winder from another source) because I sold a pile of books on Amazon and magazines on eBay. Lesson? Go to your shelf and see what you have that you don't use. Maybe you've got some gems on there. I had a couple of Alice Staremore's that were simply never going to be used and I sold them for a lot of cash, it was worth it for what I got. Amazon will take a commission but they take the headache too.
A photo of Aibhlinn follows the post.
I measured Aibhlinn last night again and it's got about 6 inches to go! I am so excited. I think if I push I can finish it this week, but more likely next. I still have some Children in Common socks I want to get out before the week is done. This is a very worthwhile organization I really urge you all to check out. They are always looking for knitted items even in between trips like the one they are a just about to make. Please consider making a donation.
I am biting the bullet and ordering 16 skeins of Wool of the Andes from Knit Picks this weekend. At Rebecca's suggestion (why didn't I think of this) I looked through the catalog and found a sweater I thought would fit me and went with that recommendation. The thing with the Knitter's Handy Book of Patterns is that they assume you already have the yarn and you are looking for a pattern. There is another companion thing that has suggested amounts of yarn for various projects that I am now getting as well. I really do love this book and I am even getting the one the same author has for sweaters. I suggest it to everyone, as I use it for small things all the time, it's wonderful. You can just take a gauge swatch, go to the book, look up let's say, mittens under your gauge and viola a pattern. So the Knit Picks order is going to be the yarn, the Knitter's Handy Book of Sweater Patterns, The Knitter's Handy Guide to Yarn Requirements, and a book called Cable Needle Freedom that teaches you to do cables without the cable needle. I was able to do all of this, (plus a ball winder from another source) because I sold a pile of books on Amazon and magazines on eBay. Lesson? Go to your shelf and see what you have that you don't use. Maybe you've got some gems on there. I had a couple of Alice Staremore's that were simply never going to be used and I sold them for a lot of cash, it was worth it for what I got. Amazon will take a commission but they take the headache too.
A photo of Aibhlinn follows the post.
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