Live To Knit, Knit To Live

My Bloody Valentine

2011-02-14T19:04:00.002-05:00

Celtic Consort is a very basic man. He's not into what he calls "made up" holidays. Don't get me wrong, he'll likely come home with a sweet card and maybe some extra dark chocolate for me. And most years, that's the extent of our "romantic" holiday.

So when I saw Honeysuckle in Rowan 45, I knew I wanted it just not in some soft neutral. I wanted COLOR. I wanted BOLD! I wanted Kidsilk Haze in Blood, a rich deep red that looks great on just about everyone include this fair redhead. I scored some at the Bloomin Yarns Black Friday sale. The only Black Friday sale I have ever attended.

I decided rich red would be perfect for Valentines. A way to treat myself like the fabulous woman I am. As I started working on it, I was lured into attending the Pittsburgh Knit & Crochet Festival. Friends would be there as vendors and it'd been a few years. And what better way to show off my fabulous new lace sweater?

I worked feverishly after finishing my mother's gift. Ignoring posts on Ravelry. Knitting whenever possible. I overcame two sick days. I planned when to knit various pieces as beading was added to the border. Beads do not travel well on the trolley. But I did it! I love it!

Many comments and fawning happened at the festival. I felt great! What a wonderful Valentine gift. So here are my thanks to Elder Celting for his help with photos.

Ready... Set....

2011-01-03T19:28:00.006-05:00

GO!

Yep, I fell down the rabbit hole called 11 shawls in 2011. I had found the 10 shawls in 2010 group what I thought to be too late in the year last year. Lucky for me, they decided to do it again this year.

You know what's even better? I have a bunch of shawls/wraps/shawlettes already in mind WITH stash yarn. I've been feeling guilty about the stash. And every time I toss it, I remember things I'd forgotten.

If I'd stuck with last year's resolutions, I wouldn't have that problem. But I did an epic fail instead. So now I set up my 11 shawls in my Ravelry queue with a special subset to find them. One I'm even designing for a special yarn gifted to me by SpaceCadet. It's Spice Trade and it inspired. To start though, I'm doing Damson for my Mom in Dream in Color Starry Spanish Star (Dream Club Nov 10)

On the side, I'm also working on finishing up some other projects. Oh and if I'm not crazy enough (and you know I am), I cast on for this beauty:

Yep Honeysuckle by Sarah Hatton from Rowan 45. I'm doing mine in Kidsilk Haze in Blood. I want it for Valentine's Day. I've even considered that should I reach my goal, I'd go to the Pittsburgh Knit and Crochet Fest to show it off. This is where I am now:

Well I hope I keep this up. See you soon!

Memorial Day

2010-05-31T21:47:00.002-04:00

I'm not one to continually post of those in military service. Sometimes I even find it irritating though I do appreciate what they do. However, I've found that people have forgotten what Memorial Day is about. It is a time to remember those veterans who have passed away. Those who have lost their lives fighting for our freedoms and those who survived that fight and were fortunate enough to enjoy those freedoms afterwards.

This Memorial Day marks a landmark for me. It is the first that I remember my favorite war veteran, my grandfather. A man whose joy for life and all encompassing love enlightened many a life. Unfortunately, he passed last August just before his 88th birthday. He was a man who I hope I have raised my boys to be half as good as. Who cared deeply for those around him.

He would tell stories of his service but at the same time saw no reason for the current war. A man who thought being American meant that it was quite normal to disagree with your President, vote not for a party but a person, and tell any elected official where to shove it when they voted for a lobby and not their voters. He showed me what it was to be a patriot. He showed my boys what it is to be a patriot. To impress upon them that service to your country was honorable and yet to not chase after it. That service can be necessary and yet glory at the price of humanity a terrible thing.

His stories told of the humorous side of war when discussing how he met General Patton at the end of WWII and was fined. They also told of the horror of the concentration camps when he helped to liberate Dakau and was met by a Polish survivor covered in body lice and looking like a skeleton.

Here is to his memory on this Memorial Day. May all of those whose loved ones are currently fighting come home safely so we may celebrate them at Veteran's Day. For those who don't may we remember the great service they have done for all of us.

I can't believe I bought the whole thing....

2010-05-12T20:10:00.002-04:00

As you know Laurie and I went to MDSW the first weekend in May along with tons of other people. I ended up being close on finishing Que Sera but decided to get the extra sleep instead of finishing since the weather was predicted (correctly) as being in the 90's.

I had a ton of fun but didn't really take any pictures. I think I was too hot. I ended up making a tshirt to wear with my Ravatar and some cards with my contact info. If you've found me that way, welcome to the party!

Due to the rumors of Rare Gems, Laurie and I decided to stand in line at The Fold this year. I haven't done this for several years as I already had a bunch of STR and I could get it online. But a Rare Gem is something you CAN'T get that way. Both Laurie and I found some that appealed. I even found one for DPUTiger!

So what all did I get? Well here's a pic:

So let’s see if I can document it all starting top left:
Gale’s Art Fibers - 2 Blue Faced Swirl in Moldy Pumpkin, 1 Polwarth in Mudpie, 2 Alpaca Silk in Scarab, and sock yarn in Scarab, Moldy Pumpkin, and Crayon Box.
Funky Monkey Pattern from The Fold specially requested by my 8 yr old
Cricket Loom and some extra heddles from Susan’s Fiber Shop (Hi Newt!)
Spirit Trail Fiber - Merino, Angora, Cashmere in Indian Corn
Almaza from Just our Yarn is the blue in front of the the fiber for Dragon Wing Shawl
Rayon Scarf weaving set from the Mannings in Jewel Tones next to the fiber
8 oz Galaxy, 1 Spontaneous Spinning batt in coppery/russet tones, and Striping Batt in Beach Bonfire from Loop
8oz of Merino/silk/bamboo blend from Bullen Wullens (great deal on Sunday)
2 bags of basic fiber and 3 superwash/bamboo sock yarns from Little Barn. Love using this fiber to try new techniques. No guilt!
To the left of that is project bag I got at Spirit Trail, some blueberry honey and Scottish Heather Hand Cream from Bee Folks.
Fiber Optic Siren Song in Peacock, FootNotes in Russet, Lace in VitaminC (a little buried) for Cascata, and fiber in Acorn. With a sample of Siren Song Unspun I got waiting in line at the Fold
MDSW hoodie and earlier year apron for spinning
Stitch Marker necklace from Jennie the Potter
STR in Cattywampus, Illanqu, with 2 lightweight rare gems, 1 mediumweight rare gem
Pair of yummy slippers from Sheperd’s Flock(?)
Tess Yarns: Raw Silk in a piney color for Summit, Cascade Silk in blue and green for Corset Top, 2 sock yarns for baby sweaters, and a mug.
TIG Glenhaven in Father Time from Cloverhill just above the weaving books.
I also got 2 bobbins for my Schacht Woolee Winder and lots of fun buttons including “If knitting were exercise, you could bounce a quarter off my @$$”

Not pictured is a Cottage Creations pattern for Kylie's Kardigan.

Next up I'll show you my Que Sera and the one that got away.

Crunch Time

2010-04-30T14:48:00.002-04:00

Well despite the forecast for close to 90 degrees this weekend at the Maryland Sheep & Wool festival, I am in a crunch to finish a sweater. Que Sera from Knitty. I'm doing it as part of the Bloomin' Yarns KAL. I've finished almost all knitting. I'm now setting in my sleeves and seaming them up. Once that's done, just 4 rows for the neckband and BAM! I'm done. Think I can do it for tomorrow morning?

Wish me luck! Let me know if you see me at MDSW in my sweater if you can tell I pulled it this close. :)

Golden Bees

2010-03-01T20:26:00.003-05:00

I thought for a while as to what to do for Knitting Olympics this year. I wanted a challenge but I didn't want to go nuts either. So I opted for The Bees' Knees from The New Stranded Colorwork. Not terribly large, challenging with having to stitch and cut steeks, all around perfect.

I managed to cast on during opening ceremonies despite having to go to dinner at the MIL's for Celtic Consort's delayed birthday dinner. I worked when I could given trying to cram in extra work. I even worked it in around Celtic Consort's carpal tunnel surgery.

I ordered a new steamer and bought my first sewing machine. Both excellent purchases and easy to use. I was happy that I purchased the sewing machine at a bargain price at Target. Perfect basic machine for the types of things I would need to do with it now and in the future.

I spent my last few days managing a drugged up husband and final preparations for closing ceremonies. Basting steek lines, blocking with the steamer, stitching the steek lines.

Then the scissors to knitting. I have to say, after sewing the steek lines it was a giant relief. That was the part that scared me, not the cutting.

The cuts made it a freeing moment. And the final knitting of the facings. And the seaming of the sleeves. I felt I grew for this olympics.

Here is the beautiful end. Enjoy.

Body Bag

2010-01-28T20:35:00.003-05:00

So for Wuletide, DPUTiger was fabulous with her sewing skills and gifted me with a lovely box bag. (mine is the dark purple, second row from top) I think there's something about the fact that there is a big zombie theme here at Celtic Castle. She made it in purple and green because those are the colors listed as favorite in Ravelry and I LOVE it! However, kind of funny that purple and green make me think zombies. Why is this relevant? Well right now, it's acting as a body bag. I have a head, two arms and a partial torso in it right now. That's right I'm carrying around body parts. All soft and squishy.

I should finish Lego man in time for the party Saturday night. I just have been hiding knitting. So lots of trolley knitting.

I'd also like to give DPUTiger credit for enabling this. She might as well have posted a billboard saying CQ sign up here. I've decided to do it in Silk Thread II from Blue Moon in Blue Moonstone. I've also gotten these beads. Yum!

Oh and did I mention I also found my Knitting Olympics project? I'm doing this.

Yarn is winging it's way here right now!

Last but not least, I had a library stash enhancement that will surprise almost no one. I found this book during Celtic Consort's post dinner excursion. I took one look inside and said I had to have it.

Happy Birthday Younger Celting

2010-01-19T19:49:00.003-05:00

So 8 years ago during an ice storm, I was in the hospital being induced. Later that night and early in the morning, Younger Celting made his reluctant entry into the world. I'm a day early with the post but I had to share the class birthday prep.

The theme this year is Pokemon. I dread this stuff. However, what he wants he gets. So as many things as I mess up as a mom. As many times as I'm not the uber mom, I do some things to shine. (I hope). When he asked for Pokemon cupcakes, I went to it.

First it's mixing of icing to get some red and some white. I then started here with white half of cupcakes.

Then a nice twist of red icing to be half and half.

And finally a fine line of black and voila! Pokeball cupcakes! A full two dozen to be exact.

Gosh I must love this kid. :) BTW, thanks to Elder Celting for the early photos.

Lego Man-ia

2010-01-14T20:08:00.002-05:00

Younger Celting will be 8 later this month. We're doing a dual celebration with YC and Celtic Consort as their birthdays are just 9 days apart. Usually, we do them on different weeks but this year had it's own issues. CC's family is full of January bdays. YC's bday lands on a Wednesday this year and unfortunately, I have to work (from home) this weekend. Not a good idea to plan to have people over.

So I thought okay we'll do the following Saturday to have everyone over for celebratory treats. No go. CC's middle sister has her birthday then. Since she still behaves as though she's a child and her mother indulges this behavior, YC has to wait to celebrate until the 30th. Almost 2 weeks AFTER his own bday. Just so you know, 30th aunt bday trumps 8th nephew bday. So grownup.

ANYHOW, I got side tracked. YC is a HUGE Lego fan. So when I saw this pattern (thanks to my Rav friends), I had to make it. I made a special stop tonight to pick up some red, blue, and yellow to make it. I probably could've raided the stash for something but I knew I didn't have appropriately primary colored yarn. I think that's part of what makes it work for me. The only question is what will Elder Celting think? :)

Holiday Deals

2010-01-05T20:16:00.002-05:00

So when we pulled the Christmas tree out this year, I found the top broken. I was able to jam it in enough to make it through the holiday season but the top of the tree was a bit sparse on decoration to not worry. So the tree we've had since Elder Celting was a toddler is about to make it's departure. Apparently, this is the year of the departure.

I decided to shop after the holiday so as not to pay several hundred dollars for a tree we use once a year. And this evening, I stopped out with the Celtings to find the replacement. I was hoping for prelit with multicolor. I was also hoping for LED. No luck on the LED but I DID find the prelit multicolor for 80% off! YAY! Celtic Consort needs to stop out tomorrow to pick it up.

I decided that I would wait until the holiday stuff was put away before trying to take pictures and document the stash. My broken tree blocks most of the light from the front window so it's not very conducive to good pics. So I should have nice pictures later this week. I'm also trying to use some stash for things.

Having said that, I also just signed up for Rockin Sock Club. This will be my fourth year. I've participated in every year except the very first. That was only because I didn't know about it until after signups closed that year. I'm also renewing my Vesper Sock Club. How could I not? Have you seen Julia's stuff???? It's like telling a kid in a candy store that they can't have anything. Yeah RIGHT!

Talk to you later this week and hopefully see some of you for Wuletide!

Testing..... Testing.....

2010-01-01T15:37:00.002-05:00

Is this thing on?

Yeah I've been away for months. Things have been crazy with the merge into the parent company, soccer season, and just life in general. I haven't been a good blogger.

However, one of my New Year's resolutions is to blog at least twice a week. So here's to a fresh start.

One of my other resolutions is to get my entire stash into Ravelry complete with pictures. While it may seem intimidating at first, I think once I get rolling, I'll be okay. Then once everything that's already in the house is logged, it's only just keeping up with the new items.

So here's to the New Year and improving one's self. No matter how many bad choices you make, you can always change for the better.

Now I'll leave you with something that makes me very happy. My Vesper Fiber Club December Shipment.

End of an Era

2009-09-17T20:27:00.002-04:00

Sniff, sniff. Today we had a tried and true member of the family given it's last days. The minivan we bought when we bought our house has met it's match. We have finally reached the point of no return with car repair vs. car payment. We've had this one longer than we've had Younger Celting.

No more Pirates of the Caravan! No more green mom mobile. Instead it seems we will be following Laurie's lead and going for a Sienna. We looked at a few different minivans tonight, but the Sienna seemed far and above everything else. Good options, workable price, and comfortable. The worst drawback was that there aren't any decent colors except the red. Celtic Consort won't hear of red. He claims a jump in insurance. Instead it seems as though we will end up with a sand colored one.

The good news is that I'll finally have a brand new vehicle. While the car was new when we bought it, I didn't really get to call it mine. I don't drive it very often. The van was always mine. And this will REALLY be mine.

WTF??

2009-09-08T20:47:00.002-04:00

Okay I've been trying to keep the negativity to myself but I can't be quiet anymore. I'm tired of people jumping to the most horrific conclusions on the debates that are in the forefront of the news these days.

First, the smaller issue: Obama's address to schoolchildren. I feel I can comment here as I'm a parent of two school age children (Grades 2 and 6). Near as I can tell, our President decided to speak to our children about staying in school, working hard, and furthering their education. The benefits of which would be richer, fuller lives, opening multiple opportunities.

Now Celtic Consort and I are slightly off the beaten track. Neither of us hold a 4 year degree but are fairly self educated. While we both started off to get a 4 year degree, we both emerged on different paths and feel we are better for it. We don't hid that fact from the Celtings. We, in fact, encourage higher education but also recognize that one must forge their own path and not be a follower. Elder Celting is a perfect example, I can see a typical 4 year degree probably won't suit him. He will probably end up in some sort of art related training. Younger Celting is the one to chase a master's degree.

So will someone PLEASE tell me what is so horrific about the President telling kids to go to school to improve themselves? There are days I roll my eyes about Obama but I can't see what all the hubbub is about. Our school district recorded the address "for future review." What a crock! If you only feed your child's minds with one option, how are they supposed to tell good from bad later? How do they know how to discuss pros and cons and make a decision based on facts and not propaganda? I'm sick of national decisions based on sound bytes.

This brings me to my second topic: National Healthcare.
I'm in the thick of this one folks. I've spent almost my entire professional career working for health insurance companies. How I ended up doing IT there, I'm still not sure. However, it's kind of hard to back away when MY HEALTH COVERAGE is through my employer. Two young boys and a husband doing skilled labor is a big incentive to keep as many benefits as I can get. I know because I've also been on the other side of the fence; a single mom making $200 too much a year to be covered by Medicaid while I went to school full time and waited tables. I dreaded every sniffle. Imagine, I'm serving people food with goodness knows what kind of infection because I can't take the time off to get checked out, let alone pay for it. I've seen letters to the editor talking about how health coverage is a luxury like a cell phone or cable. That these "whiners" should pay for coverage before those items. Umm, yeah, I lived in my aunt's attic because I didn't have money for rent and yet I was "whining" because I couldn't see the doctor?

Get it straight folks PEOPLE DESERVE HEALTH COVERAGE. Not people like "us", EVERYONE. The same people bemoaning the proposed system and pointing to horror stories elseswhere are the same ones who are living in fear of swine flue. They are the same ones who expect antibiotics when they have a viral infection because they don't get that it won't help. They are the same ones who would shirk away if someone remotely ill looking came up to them. They are also the ones who would cry foul if they were caught up in the wrong side because they were sick too long or were bankrupted by medical bills caused by something beyond their control. It's not people not working, it's also the people getting cancer and losing their job because they are too sick to work. It's the folks who are hit by some drunk driver causing life long injuries which take their ability to work, their savings, and their homes.

You want to prevent a pandemic? Give people a chance to catch it early. How many people will die from a pandemic flu because they didn't go to the doctor when it was just an achy feeling due to lack of health care coverage?

You know what this reminds me of? In Tudor England during outbreaks of the "sweating sickness", people of the court would escape from London to their country estates to isolate themselves in order to avoid getting sick. The poor had no choice, they were stuck in the city. Guess who filled the body pits?

Do YOU want to be classified as "unworthy" of treatment?

Good News, Bad News

2009-08-10T18:42:00.003-04:00

First the bad news. For the next month, I will be working an hour extra every day. So instead of an 8 hour day, I'll have a 9 hour day. Bleah. Why am I so blessed?

The good news, G20 summit is coming to the 'Burgh and working downtown will be WAY too difficult. The options given to our IT department were work from home risking a dropped connection, take personal time, or do make up hours for the three days and take the days off. I opted for the last one.

With my cousin getting married that Saturday and my crazy aunts (you know who you are :) ) coming in, it seemed like the best option. Just this time? Can you please give me a better Danny's hoagie heads up?

Tomorrow I'm going to try for pictures. Tonight seems risky as the lights are already flickering.

In Memoriam

2009-08-03T22:23:00.003-04:00

Here's to a man who's life experience reads like a movie script, James Edward Clark (August 17, 1921 - August 3, 2009) . He's the man that the rest of the men in my life have to measure up to.

Many years ago, in a galaxy far, far, away, a friend mentioned to him a wonderful woman who he might be interested in. She was a divorcee with 6 girls. Fortunately for us, he took that recommendation. He had the privelege of meeting these girls, along with me, shoved into a Volkswagen Bug. Somehow, this did not chase off this widower. We were the lucky ones. Many years of joy grew from that choice.

I spent my childhood looking for both his approval and his joy at my accomplishments. Nothing could've topped the moment he held each of my boys. The Celtings could not have enjoyed him more. There's something to be said for a man who, in this position, topped my own father for giving me away at my wedding.

While we are sad to lose this loving soul, we are glad that he no longer suffers. May he find joy in the Summer Land with his lost love. We may cry for our own loss, but rejoice in your reunion. We miss you, Pap-Pap.

Tour de Fleece, Day 5

2009-07-08T21:50:00.001-04:00

Day 5
Originally uploaded by sjbench@verizon.net

Well I finished the other bobbin and started this. Another Spunky Club in the appropriately named "New Day" colorway. I thought the yellow and red appropriate to my pace. Yellow because I win every day I spin. Red because I feel like I'm always bringing up the end in my less than prolific progress. :)

Rough Day #4

2009-07-07T22:41:00.004-04:00

First let me say that yes I did spin for Day 4 of Tour de Fleece. However, no exciting progress as I had bigger fish to fry tonight.

So I was just about to start my second day of my 30 day fitness challenge on Wii Active, when crying and sniffling noises came from the side door. Based on what I was hearing I was expecting a "EC hit me with a ball!" "Did not!" kind of conversation. Instead, I got YC with his face covered in blood and EC quickly trying to reassure me it was not his fault. The basic story was that they were playing on the back hill with the wagon. At some point, the wagon was going fast and started to list to one side. YC trying to recover, leaned the other way and promptly met face with tree.

After cleaning away the bloody mess, I could see that it all came from a nice gash style cut on his browbone. Not sure if it was stitch worthy, we took off to MedExpress. Turns out, no stitches, just surgical super glue and a steri strip. First true medical patch job on either of the Celtings. We've had breathing things, nursemaid's elbow, and the weedkiller scare, but nothing requiring some outside item to hold the body together.

Side note: I was pleasantly surprised how well this shot actually captured YC's eye color.

After coming home, I did get back and finish my second day's workout and I'm feeling it. But in a good way.

I then checked my email to see resolution in yesterday's Redbox debacle. Instead I got a reply telling me that emails get caught in spam filters and that it was too bad, so sad for me. I IMMEDIATELY called Redbox back where poor Shane answered my call. Shane was much more helpful than his coworkers. It only took me to almost screaming that I had bank records and that the machine I rented from wasn't even at it's location on the alleged rental date. He placed me on hold (probably to tell a supervisor that there was a raving madwoman on the phone). When Shane came back, he identified that the machine was the problem and they would be refunding my money FINALLY. I also received free rental codes for 3 movies. Apparently, my suggestion of the machine not being at the location prompted him to look into it's history. What he found were items being returned BEFORE they were rented, items which were rented before the machine was in service, and various other whacked out scenarios. If the woman I spoke with yesterday had not been so condescending, perhaps I wouldn't have almost jumped through the phone at poor Shane. I'm just glad that I check my receipts.

Tour de Fleece, Day Three

2009-07-06T22:18:00.001-04:00

Day Three
Originally uploaded by sjbench@verizon.net

Thanks to Elder Celting who did my entire photo shoot. I thought this one showed the fiber best. I'm surprised I could still spin after working all day and completing my first workout for my Wii Active 30 day challenge. We'll see how I am tomorrow.

BTW, fighting with Redbox right now. Usually I love them, but I was just charged for 17 extra days EACH for two videos I rented on July 3rd and returned on July 4. When reviewing my rental receipt again for the initial night, I found that the invoice was dated for JUNE 16TH. I had to forward the email and I included that I could provide bank records as well for the initial night charge. Almost $37 bucks in bogus charges because someone somewhere didn't set something right.

Tour De Fleece, Day Two

2009-07-05T22:41:00.001-04:00

Day 2
Originally uploaded by sjbench@verizon.net

Well, I made more progress today. But I think it will be next weekend that will make a dent for the stash. I just hope that I don't spin so much I injure myself. :)

Tour de Fleece 2009 Day One

2009-07-04T23:12:00.001-04:00

Soul Windows Single
Originally uploaded by sjbench@verizon.net

Here's what I was doing while Lance was running his time trial

News but no pics

2009-06-16T20:30:00.002-04:00

Okay I'm a blogging slacker. But you knew this already. I felt I should post given that there are a couple of things to share. First the Friday Night Knitters are celebrating four years as a group! Can you believe four years ago we called up B&N and started this mess? And look at all the fun people that have been drawn to us. You've made me a better person and helped me to expand my knowledge. THANKS!!!!

Second, Celtic Consort and I went out to Rockler to purchase his router table. This was the last tool he needed before starting in on sock blocker designs. While we were there, I checked out the very pretty woods they had there. My favorite was the curly waterfall bubinga, lots of ripply woodgrain that's gorgeous. Well that and the purpleheart. Anyhow, now he's off to get hardboard to make some jigs for this.

In discussion as what makes a good sock blocker, I mentioned things such as air vents instead of a solid piece for faster drying. I was thinking hearts, circles, stars, etc. He said no. He plans on Celtic Knots!!!!!!! I knew there was a reason I married him. :) So he just needs to figure out what patterns he's doing and I'll probably have some testing to do.

BTW here's my list of things I would want in a sock blocker:

Air vents
Hook for hanging
Available in knee high
Smooth non staining finishing
Beautiful woods

Any other suggestions?

Pansies

2009-04-29T20:39:00.003-04:00

I came home to as Celtic Consort puts it my "crack fix." He insists that I get a package at least once a week. The truth is that I don't usually get packages. Just this week, I received my Spunky Club double bump and this lovely gem today. Miss Julia has outdone herself this time. The color is called Pansies at the Phipps. Truth is I can so see them in there. So yummy. And MDSW is just days away!!!!

Mojo Back

2009-04-22T19:08:00.005-04:00

Okay so I lost my blogging mojo while working on some very cute baby gifts for Miss Heather's lovely girl. I didn't want to spoil the surprise and so I avoided posting. I did have some fun dyeing Easter eggs with the boys. If you look, there's a black one which the Celtic Consort did. And what did I do with the leftover dye? Well use my fiber from Julia to clean it up! Can't wait to figure out a project for it.

So now I'm working on some socks for me. Chevvy with Vesper Lovely Lollipop Sky. Totally quick and fun. I love how the heel stripes on the bottom. What do you think?

As Seen on Oprah

2009-03-21T22:53:00.004-04:00

Last night was The Cult Meeting. While I was on my way over to the cafe at Borders, I walked past the "As Seen On Oprah" end cap. You know all the books that are touchy feely or "We're better than you because we read this" kind of stuff. And there's what seems to be an empire era classic..... but not. Instead it was this book.

Total wacky funny premise. I couldn't resist buying it. I also bought the Twilight series and movie. Oh and Pints & Purls. Gotta love a knitting book that rates patterns by number of beers. So while I read on about zombies invading the world of Elizabeth Bennett and Mr. Darcy, I can keep my beers handing in a six pack carrier. :)

Happy St. Patty's Day

2009-03-17T19:53:00.006-04:00

So while most people are excited to celebrate Irish roots or just a brush with Ireland, the Celtic Consort and I have a second reason to celebrate every year. This is the day that we officially began as a couple. And this year is special. This year, we have been together for TEN YEARS. A whole decade! How did that happen? It seems like yesterday that we were out celebrating the wearing of the green with friends for the first time. We were also trying to keep the togetherness on the down-low. I had met Celtic Consort while dating a friend of his (who was a beeeeeeeeeep). This friend and I had a terrible breakup and he did not want me hanging out with his friends. So see.... sometimes you do have to kiss a few frogs to find a prince. :)

(p.s. despite messing with it forever, Blogger refuses to orient this pic correctly)

I need a hug...

2009-03-05T21:44:00.002-05:00

I'm having a crap week. About the only thing that is good is the secret knitting project. But even then, I feel like I'm behind. Back to needing a hug. Maybe Knit Knite will help me smile more. After all, Stacey is bringing Girl Scout cookies.

Where oh where has my order gone?

2009-02-17T19:04:00.002-05:00

Okay so when the winter issue of Interweave came out with the Spectrum Scarf & Tam, I HAD to do it! I mean look at it. It's gorgeous! I went out looking for the necessary colors of Kidsilk Haze and came up with four of them at Bloomin Yarns.

Now at the same time, I had been tempted by Julia's Fiddlehead Mittens. And what do you know, while looking for appropriate colors and yarns for my own pair I happened upon this site. One of the top links when I googled. Seemed very friendly and helpful in addition to having some reasonable prices.

I ordered several colors of Rowan Pure Wool for Fiddlehead in addition to my missing Kidsilk Haze. I also ordered some Kidsilk Haze for my Fiddlehead lining. I placed this order, dear blog, on January 1, 2009. January 8, I received an email confirming that the first half of my order shipped. YAY! It arrived on the 10th and I found 4 of 6 of the Pure Wool and 1 of my Kidsilk Haze colors. I did see, however, where I was charged for a Kidsilk Haze which was not included but received a quick response when I contacted the store that it would be credited on the second half of the order.

Now insert into this limbo, the fact that my credit card had to be closed due to fraudulent charges. As soon as I got things reported to the bank, I again , dear blog, contacted the yarn shop and gave them an updated number to use. I also made sure they had my phone number in case there were any issues arising from said situation.

Why is any of this relevant? Well, look, dear blog, at the date of this post. I have YET to receive the rest of my order. I was reassured as recently as February 5th, that "The backorder should ship within the next few days. I will email to confirm." I gave it a week and a half. I still have not heard anything. I'm pissed! I have not only been waiting for half of my order but I've already paid for a skein of it!!!! I can understand when things are back ordered. I can understand when things slip through. BUT CAN'T THESE PEOPLE NOT HAVE TO BE PROMPTED FOR A RESPONSE ON MY FRIGGIN' ORDER???????

Glad these projects were just for me. I'm also glad that I have more than enough knitting to fill the gap. Please note, however, I will never EVER order from there again.

On Hold

2009-02-16T19:51:00.003-05:00

Well Postwar Mittens are on hold while I do some gifty knits. First I've started on Little Roxie Helga's Mystery Gift. I'd show you but we don't want Mom to see yet. :) Let's just say that those who HAVE seen it exclaimed over it. I knew it was nice but didn't expect that. I've also started on some Bib O' Loves. I got a rainbow of colors to start working them up. I just need buttons for closures. They will be distributed amongst all three prego ladies I know.

Second, I did my classic Babies & Bears for my cousin's first baby. Laurie did a Devan and both were totally adored.

I also did this lovely number for my mother for her birthday. It's from Luxury Yarn 101 One Skein Wonders. Silk Fountain Hood. I used 2 skeins of Debbie Bliss Pure Silk. Totally divine to work with and it didn't break the budget either.

Speaking of budgets, I skipped the Pgh Knit & Crochet Festival as the Celtic Consort is currently waiting to hear if he'll still have a job. Kind of bad form to buy a TON of yarn (including Vesper Sock) when we may need to worry about buying food. Well maybe not that bad but still a tight budget.

Now I'm back to the surprise knit....

Brightening Up Winter Greys!

2009-01-26T18:11:00.006-05:00

Warning Sock Club Spoilers!!!!
For some odd reason, DPUTiger’s Postwar Mittens have created an obsession in me to make them. But not in the same way as everyone else. Despite the designer’s ingenuity to provide three different motifs to choose from in addition to three different colorways, two different thumbs per motif, and two different styles (pointy or blunt), giving a total of about 36 variations. I wanted something UNIQUE, so I’ve opted with a set of colors that will help chase the grey out of a Steeltown winter. Don’t get me wrong, I thought the colorways in the pattern were very pretty (the green especially). I needed more so I chose three very bright saturated tones of Baby Ull to liven things up: Cyclamen (which I keep calling raspberry), Tangerine, and Lagoon. I’ve decided that they make good trolley knitting despite being colorwork. This is because the pattern is simple and repetitive. It’s also very easy to look at my knitting and see where I am. I managed to work a few rows on the way in to work this morning. They must be nice because the woman who sat down next to me immediately said “That is gorgeous!” I like them and I think if my knitting pace keeps up, I should have a pair or most of a pair for Friday knitting.

Speaking of knitting, we had newbies come on out to see us. Katie and Katy joined us separately and we were glad to have them. They actually even seemed to like us and not be scared away. Always a good sign. Julia visited too and brought the latest installment of Vesper Sock Club. “Wanderlust” isn’t it divine? Both Laurie and I immediately thought of Leyburn. Saturday brought Spunky Club in “Twilight”. YUMMY! I really need to get spinning. I have a ton of fiber to spin up but I’m not practicing enough. Need to get at it.

Oh and my first RSC of 2009 came today. "My Blue Heaven" with a pattern from Sivia Harding which includes BEADS!!! I totally have to do them now but they need to get in line.

So all these things are driving me to finish London Calling, MS3, and Noro Moebius. Yes I’m still on the black hole of the sewn bind off for the moebius but I’m doing a chunk at a time so I don’t suddenly snap. I’m also on a schedule for MS3 to be sure it’s done on time despite my somewhat magpie like attention span. I also cast on for the first flame hat. Not much progress outside of working on the really nice cast on which Heather showed me. But I have hope and I also have a time frame that I’d like to have them for too. So once again, schedule.

Oh and I’m STILL waiting on the rest of my Fiddlehead yarn. It should be arriving shortly but at least I have Postwar to distract me.

Happy Birthday Younger Celting

2009-01-20T19:04:00.004-05:00

Seven years ago, this trouble bubble came into the world. He has grown a bit since then but is more talkative now. Today is a bit subdued as both he and Elder Celting are grounded for their behavior this past weekend. Saturday we are doing cake and ice cream with the family. However, so that today is not a total bust, I made cupcakes for school and mint chocolate chip cookies for home. TASTY!

Now on to the knitting! In case you missed it, YC is wearing his Snowflake Saddle Hoodie. He wears it as soon as it comes out of the wash. Also any time he think I won't notice that it hasn't been washed yet. EC has been wearing his but I can't seem to get a decent shot where he's smiling.

First of all, since my moebius was lost, I started on this one. I just need to finish the sewn cast off and it's ready to wear. I'm also working on my Figgy Pudding Vesper socks on the trolley. Many admirers on the 47L. I personally can't wait to finish them just to wear them.

And I've cast on my London Calling. It's going fast so it should only be a little while.

Oh and my last color came for the Flame Hats. So I'm using Falk in black, neon orange, and burnt orange. Perfect BP colors. So once I get more done on MS3, I'm casting on. They may become my next trolley knitting project.

So I'm trying to entertain myself with our new tv to keep on knitting.

Can't Write, Knitting will Swallow Me

2009-01-08T20:17:00.002-05:00

Okay somewhere in my deluded mind, I believed that after Xmas knitting that I would be able to breathe easy. Nope. I realized that I have a TON. OF. KNITTING. I'm still in process with Snowflake Hoodie for Elder Celting (on the hood should finish tonight). I've also got to work on my Noro moebius as I've lost the Fibonacci Moebius. :( In addition to these things, I'm working on my Figgy Pudding socks on the trolley. Plus I need to get cracking to complete the wing on MS3 for Heather. This one has a HARD deadline and it cannot be missed as it's way too important.

Now let's look at what else is going on. Elder Celting picked out this book for me as a present from Bloomin' Yarns and I lurve it! I plan on doing these socks from it. I also want to do flame hats for the 13 players of Elder Celtings soccer team, because I'm nuts like that. Not to mention, my yarn for London Calling is coming. As is the stuff for the Spectrum Tam and Scarf, plus my Fiddlehead Mittens (curse you Julia! :) ) Oh and did I mention I wanted to do my Triinu shawl for MDSW?

Can't write, knitting will swallow me.....
Can't write, knitting will swallow me.....
Can't write, knitting will swallow me.....
Can't write, knitting will swallow me.....
Can't write, knitting will swallow me.....
Can't write, knitting will swallow me.....

(p.s. pictures to come soon of all the yummy knit goodies)

All I want for Xmas...

2008-12-11T17:30:00.002-05:00

So I've thought about it and I realized what I would like in the knitting world. Being a computer programmer, to learn new things I buy computer books. All of these books contain something that my knitting books lack, a DVD. Yep, they contain that DVD with examples, code, and a pdf of the book. And what do we knitters do when we are working on something from a book? We photocopy the pattern from the book. Wouldn't it be easier if we could just pull out that DVD and print out a working copy? You could mark it up however you want. You could take charts and blow them up and print them out. Heck you could even take the pattern and print it out on index cards to tuck into your project bag for on the go.

If it can be done with one set of books, why not knitting books? I mean with the widespread use of technological tools like Ravelry, we should take the next step.

So here I am, lone knitter, demanding digital copy.

Did I mention that the push for movies and shows is to digital copy so you can go from computer, to tv, to iPod? Let's get digital. Let's join centuries of handcraft with modern literacy. Come on people!

Gifties

2008-12-08T19:36:00.004-05:00

So I've finished up all my teacher gifts including my second Noro Scarf using Patons SWS. And a nice pair of Fetching for the reading teacher. Those would've been finished the same day they were cast on but I ran out of yarn and had to run off to Bloomin' Yarns.

Speaking of Bloomin, we were out there with Laurie again this weekend. The Celtings even helped to decorate the tree there while I was looking for nice gifties. And all the nice little gifties I've ordered came today too. Well, there are 3 items which I believe are in a seperate package, but I'm pretty sure they'll be here tomorrow.

So I'm now working on my mom's socks and the Celtings' Snowflake Hoodies. Socks on the trolley, hoodies at home. As soon as the mom's socks are done, I'll be working on my Grinchy Grouchy socks for Christmas.

Oh and here's one more picture of the holiday fun we had this weekend. For years the Celtic Consort has been trying to get Ginger to wear these. She's afraid of them, but the Celtings managed to get them on her before she realized. We got our pictures and promptly removed before scarring her for life.

Let Us Give Thanks...

2008-11-26T21:19:00.002-05:00

As a knitter, I can appreciate when someone takes the time to make something for you. It occurred to me as I was prepping for tomorrow's feast that I have been extremely fortunate. I have been blessed with a family that while weird, quirky, and sometimes downright annoying, have the knack for pulling together to help in times of need. Regardless of what the problem is, there is always someone with the ability to extend a helping hand. Good example is when I was pregnant with Elder Celting, Laurie took me in and helped with childcare so I could get back to school and support us. Granted she locked me in the attic but I digress. :)

Back to the time it takes. The penultimate giving family member though was my Grandmother. As I popped my pies into the oven, I thought of how my childhood holidays were defined by her baking. Days before she would start baking pies, cookies, and rolls. She took the time to make pie crusts from scratch. She took the time not only to make all these things but teach us how to make them too. Thanksgiving brought pies in all varieties; 4 pumpkin, an apple, an apricot, and maybe another. The trimmings of crusts were made into little cinnamon rolls given to her helpers. Rolls were made that were perfect trefoil rolls, crusty outside and warm and tender inside.

Not to mention the Thanksgiving feast itself. There was always a big turkey but then the sides! Oh how they can make or break a dinner for me. Mounds of mashed potatoes made with butter and milk. Candied yams whose glaze was better than gravy on the turkey. Green beans almandine and peas with pearl onions. Always that childhood favorite of big black olives to put on a thumb. Celery stuffed with cream cheese and peanut butter. Waldorf salad crisp with apples and crunchy walnuts. Jellied cranberry sauce was the least homemade still holding that form of the can.

To set off all these treats, they were served on the china and fancy serving dishes that spent most of the year glimmering in the cabinet in the dining room. We brought out the box with the silverware that was polished the week before. A nice tablecloth was on the table. Somehow the house was always warm and smelled of good things. Even after the feast, yummy leftovers hid in the fridge waiting to be devoured.

Looking back, I see now that she did all of this because that's just what you do. The same as I would give handknit socks. You can't skimp on the dinner, it's just not done! And she shared with me the desire to give of these memories to my kids. Even now, Elder Celting is sneaking a bite of the Waldorf salad I know he thinks Thanksgiving cannot be without. Younger Celting watched anxiously to see the pumpkin pies finishing. I may take a few more shortcuts than she did, but the spirit is the same. For me, I'd be cheating if I bought my pies instead of making them. I'd be denying my roots to not serve green bean almandine.

So thanks, Grandma, you gave of yourself and for that I'm grateful. I can now see how that time was precious.

Let The Countdown Begin!

2008-11-24T18:56:00.003-05:00

Okay I know I've been away for a WHILE. I'm busily working up a storm here. Good news is that soccer season is over. Bad news, holiday knit season is on. I think it's going to be a little bit of a challenge but I can do it.

I have FOUR teacher gifts to knit up. I've opted for 3 scarves and 1 pair of Fetching. Here's a pic of the first scarf, the Noro Stripe done with Patons SWS. I'm going to do a second with a different color set. The other scarf with be the brioche scarf from Weekend Knitting.

Then we have a pair of socks for my mom. Excuse the colors as I'm not a fan but she is. The brighter the better for her. I'm working on them on the trolley.

While we're doing those, I'm also finishing up a Babies & Bears for a coworker. I'm hoping to finish tonight or tomorrow.

And of course, the Celtings' Snowflake Sweaters. Mostly done but still work to do.

Wish me luck!

Happy Birthday To Me!

2008-09-30T18:21:00.003-04:00

I'm 28..... again. Every year I turn 28 and the Celtings are slow on the uptake. So this year was a little bit different. Thursday night, the Celtic Consort took me to Wicked! It was so good even he liked it. Friday we celebrated as it was one of the few opportunities we had to do so as a family. In keeping up with my love of electronic gadgets, the Celtic Crew gave me a digital picture frame and an MP3 player. I'm making plans for how to load up all my music. My only question was is it bad to load pictures of yarn into the frame? :)

Anyhow, I came home today to a surprise package from Ms Julia. How cool is that? Inside was a skein of Vesper Sock in a color which fits Witchy Woman (teehee) and some yummy chocolate.

So while all this is going on I've been working on this little number. Almost done. I just need to finish the hood. I totally love it. I'm thoroughly pleased with the results. I'm going to have to spin some more stuff to make into projects like this. I've enjoyed the experience. I can't wait to gift this.

Distracted

2008-09-20T22:02:00.002-04:00

Okay so I'm behind on posting. (big surprise, huh?) Anyhow, I'm in process with spinning that fiber from the last post. I finished the singles from 2 braids. I'm getting ready to ply them. I also ordered a whole whack of yarn from Knit Picks. Some stuff for holiday sweaters. Part of the yarns for the Autumn Rose, some Gloss Lace for MS4, and my birthday present from my mom. She's getting me Inspired Cable Knits and Inspired Fair Isle Knits by Fiona Ellis. I'm very excited about them.

Tonight I ordered some merino/tencel fiber to spin from Knitterly Things in Prism. I've also come to the conclusion that I'm going to work on using my double drive on my wheel. I have a bad habit of not adjusting my scotch tension as often as I probably should. I think it will help with that.

Spin Me Right Round

2008-09-10T19:29:00.003-04:00

Okay so look what came for me today! It's called Meadow Grasses and it's even prettier in person. It's a hand dyed superwash I found on etsy. This is going to go to a very lucky baby. I can't wait to start spinning.

Speaking of spinning, look what I plied up last night! I got the fiber at MDSW. It's so yummy! It's blue face leicster. I loved spinning it. I did the multi color over Labor Day. The gold strand was part Saturday and part Sunday. I think it might be a little underplied, but I like it. So now I'm thinking that I should use it to make a scarf for myself.

I'm also working on my Celtic Tote. I have the back done and I'm doing the front. So now I'm just thinking about my plan for the side pockets. :)

As You Wish...

2008-08-26T20:41:00.001-04:00

So I took this quiz and here are my results:

Your result for The Princess Bride trivia Test...

Westley

Inconceivable! You scored ###!

You live it, you love it, you lost track long ago of how many times you have seen it. You have been known to wish someone luck by hollering "have fun storming the castle!" You scoff at people who cannot recite the entire 'battle of wits.' You are a true fan.
Thank you. Its people like you that give me hope for humanity.

Take The Princess Bride trivia Test at HelloQuizzy

Screaming Monkey

2008-08-25T21:59:00.001-04:00

Screaming Monkey
Originally uploaded by sjbench@verizon.net

Just wanted to share my Screaming Monkey before bed. :)

Warning Spoilage!

2008-08-21T17:41:00.002-04:00

Okay I have Vesper Sock Club Spoilage later in this post so please don't scroll down if you don't want to know.

Alrighty now that that is out of the way....

Here's what I did last night. In anticipation of my new sock club yarn appearing, I plied up my Requiem handspun with the new whorl. I think it may be a little underplied but much better than before. :) I love how the purple plays off the pink and the pink off the green. I'm pretty happy with it. Here's the details: Knitterly Things South African Fine in Requiem, 4oz. I haven't measured wpi, tpi, or yardage yet but I'll let you know when I do. Just yummy.

This makes me confident that I can order some fiber to spin up and then knit for a special gift. I've been checking out Spunky Eclectic's custom colorways. I'm kind of liking the off beat coloring of Boogie Woogie.

Okay so I came home today and found this:

Ms. Julia is so good with coordinating her packages with the goodies inside. Peeling back the tissue I found this delight inside which sent my heart a fluttering.

Imagine what I felt when I pulled it out of the gifty bag to find not only beautiful colors but merino/tencel to boot! YAY!

Mmmmm Blueberry

2008-08-18T19:39:00.003-04:00

Laurie has recently been kind enough to pick me up some blueberries from Trax Farm. Every fall I would see the blueberry patch on the hay ride and think I needed some the following year. This year I got some. We made pancakes with them and had them for dinner.

Now having said this, I also received my slow and extra slow whorls for my wheel. Since I have a tendency to overply, I thought these would help. I took a picture of them with the blueberry pancakes for scale. Pretty big huh?

Oh and Tulip was welcomed by my niece with a big "OHHHH Pretty!" and many compliments from those gathered as she whipped it out of the gift bag. Now I'm just down to Rainbow Bright and the last 5 rows. I am considering a final slip stitch row of pink for trim but we'll see.

Look I found my pictures!

2008-08-14T19:39:00.005-04:00

So in downloading my pics, I found this one I snapped at the PPG Aquarium. I love these guys everytime I see them.
And here were the most dangerous and scary animals I saw at the zoo that day.

However, being a softee, I let them back out into the wild where they were spotted this past weekend searching for large felted mittens.

I even caught the behind the scenes of this shot with my own kind of blurry shot. :)
But on to the knitting! I've got pictures of Indecisive Socks Redux. I wanted to post something that really showed the colors glowing, so I waited until I could get a shot from the backyard. I also got a shot of my Apres Surf in progress. I'm liking the yarn enough that I might even do a simple twinset with it. We'll see.

I've also opted to do a Celtic Tote for my new commute on the trolley. I'm hoping to talk to Heather to see what I should do to line it. I'm going to do a bright cheery color to chase away the gray winter. But the tote will have to wait until I finish off Rainbow Bright and Tulip. Well... Tulip will be receiving the collar trim/ties as soon as I post this. So I guess that must means Rainbow Bright.

I also ordered my larger whorls so that I can ply up my stuff from Julia and then look for something for another baby gift. If the ply goes well with Julia's stuff, I want to do some handspin for another Babies and Bears.

Oh and I see that Heather swiped my idea for July's Vesper Sock Club yarn to do Monkeys. But at least I can see that it is working out well. Kind of like test knitting without having to frog if I don't like it. :)

Trivia Time!

2008-08-05T20:19:00.004-04:00

Okay so I found a favorite movie from the '80s last night while I worked on the Tulip. Let see if you can guess where you can find the five following characters opening up to one another:

Andy Clark

Brian Johnson

John Bender

Claire Standish

Allison Reynolds

Bonus if you can name all five actors.

Double Bonus if you can give me Brian Johnson's middle name.

What will you win? I haven't decided yet. Just remember, no cheating you actually have know the answer, not find it online.

No Pics But Some News

2008-08-04T21:33:00.003-04:00

Okay so rather than be a bad blogger YET AGAIN, I decided to post without pics. Forgive me, I'll add some new ones later.

Firsts, I did find a new job. I'm the newest Web Developer at a benefits billing company downtown. I started on Wednesday and it's all that new person stuff. You know, making sure you have all the right access, loading your software, and learning the ropes. I did make sure I stopped into Ewe Can Knit on Friday to knit during lunch. They were all impressed with the Apres Surf Hoodie. I'm just before the division of front and back.

I'm also finishing the second Indecisive Sock for testing my written pattern. They are turning out beautifully. I'm also working the biasing into the pattern. This is my trolley knitting. Since I now work downtown, I get to take the trolley to work. Even better with the gas prices.

The Rainbow Bright is still chugging away. I ripped it back all the way to the pink star and reworked to have 6 rows of each color instead of 4. The previous version just wasn't going to work out large enough. I'm now on the 3rd row of blue. So pretty much where I left off in my previous post.

I've put both Rainbow Bright and Apres Surf on hold though. I'm focusing on finishing the second Indecisive and my second Tulip,for my niece. Her birthday is on the 12th and I'm close enough that it's silly for me not to finish it. I've got the left front border, I cord bind-off of the body, and partial sleeves. I think I should finish it either tomorrow or Wednesday. Then I'm going to focus on Rainbow Bright as my "at home" project. Travel will be Indecisive Sock.

After Indecisive though, I'm debating patterns to use to exploit my July shipment of Vesper Yarn. ABSOLUTELY beautiful. Heather's right, every time I open the package, this is what I hope for when I get any club shipment. I think the only one from Blue Moon that has come close is the most recent colorway of Goody,Goody. Beautiful rainbow pastel, perfect for babies.

Okay so this week's assignment(should I wish to accept it): Pictures. This blog will self destruct in 10 seconds....

Rainstorms and Rainbows

2008-07-07T16:02:00.002-04:00

Well I went on another face to face interview today. It seemed to go well. I'm also supposed to be hearing about my last face to face this week sometime. So, if I'm lucky, I may have TWO offers this week.

This one for today was downtown and I took the trolley. This worked out great, until I was headed home. We got stuck for a while when a nasty storm blew not one but two seperate tree limbs onto the tracks. Luckily, we had some handy guys on the trolley who got out in the downpour and moved them both times. I'm not sure how long we would've had to wait otherwise.

Anyhow, I got home and spent some time working on my latest baby gift. This one is for Kelly. I just love how the colors are playing. Don't you just love it? I call it Rainbow Bright because that's what it makes me think of. I'm going to have to see how big the last few rounds are going to be with the last of the blue and the purple I have. If it's not big enough, I may have to get the purply pink color and finish with a final round of pink. We'll see.

Oh and on the knitting front, I'm working out the heel on Indecisive Sock. I'm close and once I have the heel, it's home sailing from there. For the bind off, I'm going to look for something super stretchy and using both colors. Suggestions welcome.

Mother of a Phenom

2008-06-25T20:31:00.003-04:00

Have you heard? Elder Celting is a volleyball phenom. Apparently he made quite the impression with Laurie's in-laws at the graduation party this weekend. He's never played before and was holding his own. I guess I shouldn't be surprised as he introduces himself as "Iron Goalie". So why shouldn't he take that same drive and apply to a second sport. As a matter of fact, today he showed me the nice knock on the head he got playing basketball at daycare and diving for the ball.... on concrete. Yep he's that cute jock guy in high school I secretly wanted until they opened their mouths and were then just annoying.

So anyhow, since Laurie was so enamoured with her own purchases (which I remember what SHE bought!) I'm posting about my own. I've been wanting to do the Apres Surf Hoodie and found something to do it in. I knew I wanted to use a cotton/hemp/bamboo/soy yarn. I love my animal fibers but I'm trying to be Fearless and step outside the box. I ended up choosing

Sublime's Soya Cotton DK. The question was that Michelle had two colors I loved: Nettle (81) and Cucumber (89).

I lurved them both. So hard to decide. One so bright and cheery, the other so rich in color and tones I love. How to decide. Laurie said she liked them both equally. Michelle said they both looked good but Nettle really matched my eyes. That was enough for me. I bought almost all of Bloomin' Yarns supply of the Nettle.

Right now I'm secretly stashing this behind 2 boxes of stash until I finish some almost done projects. I just need to get it started before the Celtic Consort picks up on even MORE yarn entering our abode.

On the spinning front, I'm holding off on plying my Requiem until I get a Slow and Extra Slow Whorl for my Matchless. I have a tendency to overply in trying to keep momentum going with the wheel in counterclockwise direction. So I think adjusting to a larger whorl will help.

On the job front, I should be hearing back soon on the face to face. Send good ju-ju.

Happy Solstice!

2008-06-20T22:36:00.003-04:00

Today's the Summer Solstice and so we are enjoying the time. May you enjoy yours.

This is for Carly

2008-06-16T19:32:00.011-04:00

Carly rightly pointed out at Friday Knit Knite that I was being lax on the updating of my blog. So this is for her. :)

What's been keeping me away? LOTS. First there was Maryland, which I enjoyed thoroughly. I bought lots but not nearly as much as I could have. There was the EcoSpun Cotton for 99 cents a skein (I got a ton). And the Sari Silk for spinning. Oh and the buffalo for spinning with some bronze Angelina fibers to make it sparkly. Some already sparkly fiber to spin for a hexagon yoke sweater. I found the perfect green to do my Triinu shawl in. Not quite gray not quite green soft soft soft color. 2 skeins... $20.

I even saw this adorable happy child who I could've easily snuck home with the rest of the stash if only her family wouldn't have missed her. She looks much as I did at that age (so I'm told.) I showed some great restraint and bought those items I really had plans for. That includes the big bag to lug it all around in. I even bypassed this temptingly titled fiber for spinning.

That copper and pewter microfiber ribbon in the swag picture is from Tess and will soon be a work tank.

Speaking of work, my favorite boss resigned a few weeks back and things have gotten more dismal since. I'm told I'm "mean" and a "bully." Okay.... not exactly words that your boss is supposed to use with you. But then again, he looks like a guy who was probably picked on a lot in high school so I have to consider that. I too was pretty low on the food chain in high school but would never expect that. Anywho, being proactive, I prepped my resume and have posted. I've found a .NET programmer is pretty popular around here. Things are looking up. Think good thoughts as I have a face to face on Thursday.

In the meantime, my life was totally taken over by soccer. Yes I'm a soccer mom. Yes I'm aware of how it works. It just got more involved this season. Between travel practice two nights a week, a soccer camp on Friday, flight soccer for both boys on Saturdays, and a travel game on Sunday, I had zero free time. Soccer ended last week and I've been recovering. ;)

Recovering includes spending a sweltering day at Kennywood enjoying rides and food that is bad for you. I even made sure I got the Celtings on the merry-go-round. Elder Celting rode it for the first time when he was about 3 months old and I've been taking him ever since. For those not from the 'Burgh, Kennywood is TRADITION. (hear Tevye singing in the background?) School picnics abound and that's where we were. Why Younger Celting looks possessed I'm still not sure but I'm chalking it up to sugar.

So I've also been working on my Rivendell socks. They are almost done with just the second toe needing grafting. I found a colorway at Tess's booth in Maryland that just screamed elvish Lord of the Ring sock. After that, I'm working on writing out the Indecisive Socks. I have an idea for it but I'm waiting to share. Oh and I'm also totally distracted by a yummy yarn package received from Miss Julia. Since she doesn't have to ship to me, I received my Vesper Sock Club package a little early. Per her request, I'm not posting pictures yet. I'm totally loving the colors though and I'm amazed at how much work the girl puts into this stuff. She even coordinated the packaging to the yarn! You go, girl!

Alright, so I'll try to get back to at least once a week around here. If only for Carly's sake. :)

Pretty Spring Tulip

2008-04-24T19:18:00.002-04:00

I'm close, so very close. The Tulip has only the Icord edging and ties to do. I should finish tonight. I snapped a shot while there was still some sunshine. I lurve it!!! I can't wait to wear it. I'm so happy with the colors and the shape is simple. I think I might expand into another one but use a little shaping in the waist. And I'm turning the heel on the second Lenore. Woohoo!

Potpourri Anyone?

2008-04-22T21:10:00.005-04:00

So Tulip is pretty close to being done. I have to do the front borders and the I-Cord and it's almost done. All my shots tonight looked crappy so sorry no pics. Lenores are also clocking along now that soccer season is in full swing. I'm on the heel flap and will soon be turning.

I'd probably be done with Tulip but I've been dealing with my tree. I managed to get a shot this weekend before the rain of it in full bloom. Kathy, the neighbor across the street, wondered why I was taking pictures of a tree. Try explaining a blog to someone who doesn't own a computer.

So once the rain and wind came through, this is what I had even after an initial sweep on Saturday.

The drive. The flowerbed.

The walkway.

And the yard with Ginger for perspective. For new people, Ginger is an 85lb half Lab, half Rhodesian Ridgeback. I had to sweep today because I couldn't get the van up the drive the petals were so slippery. I ended up with two (yes two!) lawn bags of petals.... just from the drive. I'm not sure I want to tackle anything else. It's almost as bad as the fall when all the leaves fall.

Happy Birthday, Elder Celting!

2008-04-14T21:59:00.006-04:00

We join our program already in progress...

Whew! I just finished baking, frosting, sprinkling, and packing 4 dozen (yes 48!) cupcakes to celebrate EC's 10th birthday. There's 2 dozen yellow and 2 dozen chocolate. This is to accommodate both his regular class and his extra help class plus teachers. We should get back about 6 but I'm not holding my breath.

EC turned 10 yesterday and I was so wrapped up in the celebration Saturday that I totally forgot to do the cupcakes for today. So I had to do them tonight. He seemed pretty good about it.

So Saturday, we had the whole clan over to celebrate the double digits. Here's the cake (minus EC's name) and as you can see, we went Tony Hawk this year. The whole day, Elder Celting was trying to niggle out of me what exactly it was that we got him. I kept saying "Socks and underwear." Imagine his surprise when opening a large box to find.... socks. The second box he was trying to keep up a brave face and instead of underwear he got this:

Yep we finally got him the Nintendo DS he's been wanting. This will make my trips to Bloomin' Yarns that much easier as each boy will have a handheld to entertain themselves with while I puruse to my heart's content. I think my mom hit it big as well with these:

Laurie had noted that it seemed as though the whole family had matched their wrapping.

It was pretty wild. All in all, EC received many wonderful gifts especially games and a carrying case for his DS. I think I may have to start playing the game Laurie got him: BrainAge. Helps hone your mental skills. I need that.

So before I get to the knitting, I wanted to comment on my tree. While Laurie and Heather are watching daffodils and the lovely yellow in the yard, I watch my magnolia tree. Every year, it blooms and I hope to get a good picture. I usually end up with it starting to bloom so all the flowers are still buds just starting to poke out and a cold snap hits. This kills the blossoms and turns them all brown and I have crap all over the yard and drive.

As you can see the tree is in full bloom which is wonderful as the tree is huge. I often call it the Charlie Brown tree as it looks like it's going to eat the house. So when I step out my door in the morning it looks like this:

And this is what I see out the front window:

Quite refreshing and a great way to see that spring has sprung.

So on to the knitting. Saturday while the family was over, I was doing a little work on the Toddler Tulip. As it was sitting out, my SIL who had always seemed resistant to the knitterly gifts was admiring it. My MIL asked what it was and I said it was a cardi for my niece (SIL's daughter). At which point the SIL was thrilled. She said she had been admiring the colors and was hoping that it was for her. So maybe she's coming around.

And in all my running about Saturday, I DID manage to pick up my November Muse. So here's where I took the last picture on Sunday.I've since used the last color (Cloud Jungle) and I'm going to do the sleeves before the border. I'm going to see what I have left of November Muse to debate doing the attached Icord in that with the border in Chinatown Apple. We'll see. Hopefully, I'll have it done or almost done by Friday Knit Knite.

It's Here!

2008-04-11T18:08:00.002-04:00

Michele called and left word that my November Muse came in today! YAY! That means between morning soccer (which I'm hoping they cancel due to rain) and cleaning the house and afternoon soccer, I MUST go to Bloomin' Yarns to pick it up. I think if I make it, I should have the Tulip finished by next Saturday. Wooohooo!

Return of the Iron Goalie

2008-04-08T21:16:00.004-04:00

I finally have some time to sit and write! YAY! This weekend was the start of soccer season. I managed to fit in knitting and soccer to make one long day. Friday night was, of course, Knit Knite. A smaller turn out but we had a nice time, none the less. I even got to work on both my toddler Tulip and my own Tulip. I even made enough progress on both this past weekend to be on hold until I pick up a skein for one or the other. That means I'm working on my Lenores. I have one done and I'm starting the leg of the second.

So Saturday, I had flights which is the skill building portion of soccer. See here Elder Celting using some fancy footwork to get the job done. That was at 8:30 am (groan). We went straight from there to Bethel Bakery to order his birthday cake. He'll be 10 on Sunday. From there I managed to make it out to Bloomin Yarns to meet Carol Martin. I admired her wheel and despite trying not to buy anything before MD, I picked up some sock yarn in a beautiful colorway called Berries and Carmel. I found a version with lots of rich color. I was also tempted by the Indian Corn colorway with some of the worsted but couldn't justify the strain on the budget. I'll have to order in later. I like Laurie's idea with the sweater and I see she picked that color. Carol Martin complemented me on how well behaved and interesting the Celtings were. They spent their entire time there talking to her about her sheep and soccer. (whew!)

After our visit there, we headed off to lunch and to Younger Celtings soccer. At his level there are a TON of teams and kids. You basically have to find your field by the color shirts they wear. Makes me wish we were on this team:

As it is, we're team USA which is this lovely soft yellow which blends with all the other light colors picking up dirt and hard to distinguish. Younger Celting was the only boy on the team in the fall but is now one of two.

Then Sunday came and the legend returned. Elder Celting: Iron Goalie. That's his name for himself. He walks up to the coach and just introduces himself as "Iron Goalie." Since the fall team split and our goalie went to the second team, Elder Celting has another chance to be goalie this season. He seems to be into it and is doing pretty well. The game ended in a tie and most of the parents agreed that it was a nail biter the whole time. EC has no problem diving onto the ball and getting into the thick of things. I'm thinking we need to invest in a mouthguard.

Ravelry Favorites

2008-04-03T19:17:00.003-04:00

So I've been reading Laurie's posts about lurking on Ravelry. Apparently she's been having issues looking for recognizable favorites in the random assortment. Being an outsider myself, I thought I would try it out today. Here's what I saw when I hit the see more favorites link on the people page.

How about that? First group of people includes Miss Julia! Following Laurie's logic, that must mean I'm part of the "in-crowd." Isn't that a laugh? I just found it so startling, I had to post.

In my own knitting news, I'm on hold with my Tulip body until I get some November Muse. So I'm working on the sleeves to keep progress as far moving as possible. I'm also working the gusset on the Lenores. Basically they're my travel project which will be the big thing since soccer season has started. First flight is Saturday. This means logistic moves to make Bloomin' Yarns anniversary sale and meeting the woman from Farmhouse while still getting the boys to soccer. Wish me luck!

A More Even Keel

2008-03-31T20:36:00.003-04:00

So things at work are still hectic but have balanced out. I had my review on Friday and found out that despite the company's miserable standings, I received a raise and a "promotion". Now I know some of you are wondering why it's "promotion" and not just promotion. It's because I finally got the title that reflects the job I really do (Sr. Lead Application Developer) as opposed to the same title as just about everyone else in our IT group (IT Analyst) including the low man on the totem pole who's lucky if she can accomplish a task without messing up at least one step. So I guess this means an upward trend.

Now on to the knitting. I left off with a mostly finished Rocketry. Well I now have a finished Rocketry and Tulip. I've also worked with the leftovers from my kit to forge into a Tulip for my niece. I'm filling in where I need to. Look at the adorable buttons I found for Rocketry too. I love these buttons and have used them in the past. I love them so much, I'm willing to forgo knitting them in because the shank is the wrong direction and sew them on (GASP!!)

And Saturday was a wonderful day. We had soccer practice down at the Iceoplex. Unbeknownst to me, the Pens were also practicing there. They stopped over to say hi to Elder Celtings team after both practices finished. We even got to see Sid the Kid on his way out of the building. Before you ask, I had forgotten the camera at home. I could've screamed. So from that high, I ran over to Bloomin' Yarns which was right along the way. I had a falling down with yarn for my own Tulip. As you can see, I'm cranking along. I'm going to have to hold up though once I finish with that green (Goodluck Jade). The next color I'm using (November Muse) is on order and I have to wait for it to come in.

Saturday was so nice, we even took Ginger the Were-Beast out for a walk in South Park. For those of you not from the 'Burgh, South Park is famous for one thing... buffalos. They have a few and our walk is a meandering path that is great for the glutes and wears out the dog. See? But the coolest thing is that from along this path, you get a good view of the buffalo enclosure. I finally remembered the camera so I could show you our furry friends. I often wonder what they do with the fibers they collect from these guys. As a matter of fact, the Celtings and I have had discussions about the properties of various fibers and spinning prompted by buffalo sitings. :) It's nice to know that while I often think I'm a crappy parent, I must be doing something right. After all my kids are pretty well rounded from sports to spinning to Legos and video games.

Nice and Not So Nice

2008-03-12T18:08:00.005-04:00

Friday started out crappy. I had it out with my boss because I finally told him what everyone was thinking and saying just not to him. He wants to run the project I'm on but can't read any of the documentation to discover what ground he doesn't need to recover and what is still outstanding. When I try to help, I'm told "you don't need to be included in everything." Okay but don't say that I wasn't willing to be a team. I even left for lunch and was denied my favorite shortbread cookies at Panera. So thinking I need to hit the Powerball and tell everyone in my professional life off, I headed to Knit Knite to play with yarn. That always makes me feel better. I worked on Rocketry which was even more cheerful. I had yummy coffee (Honey Cinammon Latte) and a Snickerdoodle.

The best part though was this:
Heather found it for me on her trip to Ligonier. She said she had seen it, thought of me, and couldn't walk away. How's that for unexpected joy? I can't wait until it's warm enough to wear.

Janice also shared her 30% coupon and I had $15 Borders Bucks so I was able to not only get this:
but also this:
I found it while I was looking on the knitting shelves and was intrigued. I'm not normally a cotton knit kind of girl but I loved these classic styles that I could actually picture wearing and/or using. I really liked the throw and the surf hoodie.

I snapped the Rocketry shots while there was some sun still outside. I also wanted to show you my parking issue today. See this spot in the shade of the tree? It's my off street parking area at the bottom of my drive. Notice how the drive levels to the street and you can pull the car into the spot on the left and still be somewhat across the drive if you wanted. We park the Cavalier there since it has all the fancy ground effects on it, preventing us from putting it in the drive.

See this car? It belongs to Mr. Furline across the street. He parks at the absolute end of his drive and then proceeds to use the neighbor's drive to get in and out of his own. He also complains if she doesn't have her side cleared when he expects it. That just drives her nuts. I know what's this got to do with anything? Well this morning as I'm pulling out, I notice that his car is parked in our parking area. You know it's one thing to be neighborly and ask to use the spot because something's going on with his own driveway, it's another to just park there. I mean come on, in the past six and a half years we've lived here, the man has made it perfectly clear that all parking areas are at HIS discression. We've had people over for a party who parked on the street in front of his house because there was no more room anywhere else. He told them they needed to move because they weren't visiting his house and couldn't park there. Taking Laurie's advice, I went to ask what was going on when I returned this evening and the car was still there.

This was the point where the man said he parked there because we make it difficult (meaning he had to do a 5 point rather than a 3 point turn) for him to pull out of his driveway if we park across the front of ours. He paused to show me where we parked the car. It was a spot fully on the street. I know my husband. While he parks at the end of the drive, it's fully ON the drive not in the street. He referred to his relationship with the previous owner of our home as if that made a difference. Trying to be respectful of a neighbor and an older man, I let him know that I would mention it to my husband but that we didn't park on the street. I reminded him that the scenario of us parking across the end of our driveway was the same as him parking at the very end of his. At that point, I told him that if he persisted on parking on my property, I would have him towed. Oh and I let him know he had best move the car before I had to let the dog out. After all she had been couped up all day and needed to pee. :)

Darn right Scottish Girls Rock!

Every Little Thing...

2008-03-04T20:21:00.005-05:00

Ever hear that Police song? It's been applied to me many times for various reasons. It's even Celtic Consort and my song. We were out at the bar, I played it on the jukebox, we discovered we both loved that song, and the Police, and just Sting solo. Imagine my excitement when these came in the mail. Woohoo! I think I'm taking the next day off considering I'm likely to be hoarse. Now I just need to get Sting cornered to pose with a sock in progress.

Speaking of socks, I've been working on my Lenores (note the no pic, guess what that means) and Elder Celting's Faux Fairisle after the release of Rogue. As you can see, I've finished the front of the Faux Fairisle and I'm ready to work on the boring black back and sleeves. And just when I thought I'd get on with it. The baby who is the intended recipient of my Rocketry kit, fortuitously came forth into the world. On the down side, I haven't even cast on so I'm already behind. Whoops! Guess the boring black will have to wait a little.

I also got this lovely package from Julia today. Check out the cute button on my yarn. Sorry it's blurry but the camera either wouldn't focus or would wash it out. Two beautiful skeins to start working on both socks and a hat with a design idea in mind. I can't wait to.... well see above. ;) Okay just kicked over to check I had the link right and she had MORE beautiful sock yarns in new colorways. I'm yearning for Antigone and Pavement but must show control as this order was my second in two weeks. See more things to distract from the boring black. uhum

Oh and look new storage for the living room. I got that new furniture a few months back and I've been struggling with where to keep the knitting. You can ask Laurie, not very many options in my small abode. This lovely article was found on clearance at Target for just under $20 and matches the dark wood of the furniture to a T. It also holds a ton of crap. So much crap that we've regained a whole seat on the couch. :) I think it is supposed to be a magazine rack but it's perfect to fit between the end of the couch and the dog bed where Ginger rarely lays. She's usually sucking up a couch seat because CC has a soft spot for her. "She needs to be warm..." Yeah that heating vent right at her bed is making her cold.

Finishing and Finishing

2008-02-19T19:35:00.003-05:00

I finished my Noro Riverbed socks! Aren't they neat? I had a lot of fun with this one even though the leg seemed to take forever because it's taller than I normally do. I was shooting for complete consumption but my count on the niddy noddy must've been off. Good excuse to order a yarn meter which I've been wanting anyhow.

And... I'm doing the finishing on Rogue tonight. I steamed out the pieces on my day off yesterday while there was no one to just fling it to one side as it dried and ruin my blocking. YAY! I'm all excited to wear it for Friday knitting.

Since I've finished two projects and I had much success teaching my brioche class Saturday. (Hi Ann! Hi Kate!), I had a small(ish) falling down at Bloomin' Yarns on Saturday. I picked up patterns and kits for Tulip and Rocketry. I also picked up some Opal in a Bethel Park style colorway to do socks for the boys, black yarn to work out the Faux Fairisle Hoodie, and the Tulip for Women pattern. I was tempted to start buying yarn for that but controlled myself.... somewhat. Miss Carly was there as well and I helped her start grafting her toe on her Steeler sock.

But before I start on Faux Fairisle, I'm going to finish Lenore. You remember... October's RSC sock from last year? I started on them before I was gifted with the Noro from Julia which screamed for attention. So I'm determined to make progress on them before I start digging in on Elder Celting's Faux Fairisle.

Snow Day!

2008-02-12T16:03:00.000-05:00

So why are these boys all rosy? Because they're warming up from their winter wonderland activities. We all got a snow day today as both school and daycare were called due to the weather. And boy was I glad. The Celtic Consort called on his way to work to say if I could take the day off, I should as the roads were pretty crappy. Over 500 school closings and delays, a child's dream. So after I dug out some boots for Elder Celting, the boys and Ginger went out into the snow. There was snowman construction which quickly developed into a snowball fight. This was quickly followed by lots of sledding. The back yard has two hills which make for a great ride. I had to call in the cold wet Celtings before they became Celt-cicles. :) Everything into the dryer and hot chocolate into bellies.

So what was I doing besides standing at the kitchen window taking pictures? Well, I'm working on Rogue. As you can see, I'm almost done with the first sleeve and hope to get past the main cabling of the second sleeve this evening. The goal is to be able to wear it for the weekend. Although, I have to see how the sleeve will lay with the body. I may have to frog the sleeve cap to add some length but we'll see. You'll have to excuse the color on the pictures. In order to get the cable detail, I sacrificed the color accuracy. Oh and I used PumpkinMama's grafting instructions for the hood. Not bad...

After Rogue, the next project is Elder Celting's Faux Fairisle Hoodie. I can't wait to start on that one.

Brioche Baby!

2008-02-05T18:10:00.000-05:00

Sorry, I've been distracted lately. I'm trying to type up all sorts of knitting stuff lately. I'm working on documenting the Thumbody Special sweater, start writing out the Indecisive Socks, and typing up instructions for a class I'm teaching over at Bloomin' Yarns. Brioche! BICOLOR Brioche!

I don't know exactly why I love this stitch but I do. It's so squishy and yummy. It's also reversible. It looks kind of like ribbing but it's more dimensional than that. I first got started with it with the Helmet Hat in Interweave. I made one for my friend's daughter and I loved it.

So this weekend I went off to Bloomin' to get some supplies to do example swatches. I ended up picking some Gems in linen gray and teal. All I can say is I now love this yarn. It's superwash, has a ton of colors, and it has a great hand. So here are my swatches:

I totally love this yarn and I'm picturing a Wallaby in the gray with some teal accents. But even beyond that, I'm working on a hat idea I have too. If you look at these pictures you can see the furrows and ridges that make up the stitch. It's easier in the two color version. In those the teal is the ridge and the the grey is the furrow. All this is, is a slip stitch pattern. Toss in a couple yarn overs and some knit togethers and you have this fun pattern. It's perfect for baby blankets, socks, hats, scarves, and even sweaters.

Happy Birthday Younger Celting

2008-01-22T19:44:00.000-05:00

So I've been MIA due to preparations and celebrations for YC's birthday this past Sunday. This is birthday number 6 for him and I'm wondering where the time has gone. I'm already cringing for EC's birthday in April as he's hitting double digits. In all the hustle bustle, Laurie emailed me at work to see if I had seen my Knitting Pattern A Day calendar on Thursday. I took a look and guess what I saw:
Hello? Has she been reading me? You can find the designer here. Funny part about it was that Laurie hadn't even seen the Friday pattern until I emailed back laughing.

Anyhow, YC got this which Dad already helped him build. And Mom and Dad got him this:
We've already been trying to be a rock star but haven't made it yet. However, both boys have said that "Mom ROCKS!" Woohoo!

So speaking of birthdays, my mother's is coming quick on the heels of YC's on Sunday followed next week by the Celtic Consort's a week from today. She loves socks so I was thinking maybe some Noro ones. Julia gifted me with a skein and I used my borrowed niddy noddy to split it in half. I've cast on and started up the toe of the Riverbed pattern from Cat Bordhi's book. I'm loving the soft transition of the greens but I'm anxious for the purples. Anywho, I've found the fabric is much softer than the ball would have you think but I'm waiting for the final soak and spin before I say if I would use it again.

That leaves my Lenore's patiently waiting for me to return to them as well as Rogue nibbling into knitting time. I've started on the cable on the front just before the hood split. I'm making time but will be stalled a little with those socks. With that said, the Notre Dame sweater made an appearance at the birthday party on Saturday. See, it fits perfect and is well loved. :) Yay!

Oh and I stopped in at Heather's blog and saw her post about her name. I've always loved to hear what is said about mine so here's what I found. Note that it says I'm the total package

What Sara Means

You are the total package - suave, sexy, smart, and strong.
You have the whole world under your spell, and you can influence almost everyone you know.
You don't always resist your urges to crush the weak. Just remember, they don't have as much going for them as you do.

You are usually the best at everything ... you strive for perfection.
You are confident, authoritative, and aggressive.
You have the classic "Type A" personality.

You are wild, crazy, and a huge rebel. You're always up to something.
You have a ton of energy, and most people can't handle you. You're very intense.
You definitely are a handful, and you're likely to get in trouble. But your kind of trouble is a lot of fun.

What's Your Name's Hidden Meaning?

Do you want this or what?

2008-01-16T19:50:00.000-05:00

So back in November, the Celtic Consort and I invested in some new furniture. My two favorite things about the new stuff is the wonderful backdrop it makes to my knitting photos and the fact that the coffee table had 4 stools that tuck in underneath. That second feature will come in handy with the birthday celebrations for Younger Celting this weekend. But what does this have to do with anything? Well, the Consort spent the day calling about trying to donate our old stuff to some organization. It's in okay condition... good enough that we gave our friends first crack at carrying it off. Well apparently the general consensus with the organizations was that it was a pain for them to have to come and get it. The Vets said it was too long. Goodwill only has certain locations pickup. There were a few more in there. Finally, after some gruff conversation, the Salvation Army agreed to take it. The gentleman offered to book the next date for pickup... Feb 23. Huh? Six weeks? I can see 2 or 3, maybe even stretch to 4 weeks. Six? What happened to we'll be happy to have it? The Consort is so disgruntled about it, he suggested that it be blog fodder. Yeah the same guy who refers to the knitting group as The Cult and can't get the concept of the blog. So there it is.

Now on to KNITTING!

Okay well first spinning. Julia and I brought our wheels to knitting on Friday. She's still spinning that beautiful roving that Laurie, Heather, and I all agree we need to have. I've been working on some yummy purple stuff. Look at the beautiful heathery effect it's getting.

I eventually put that away to work on Rogue. I took some shots once I was able to stop knitting long enough to pick up the camera. I'm totally enjoying it. I can't wait until I get to the point of wearing it.

Okay and for my final part, I'm participating in TKR's pledge:

I hereby pledge to send a handmade gift to the first three people who comment on this entry. No real promises about time frame, but it’ll be within the next 365 days. In return, you have to post the same offer on your blog, and prepare to send a gift to three other people.

Maybe I'll gift someone with some handspun.....

Wheels In The Van Go Round and Round

2008-01-09T19:28:00.001-05:00

So how did I spend the day before Rock Day? Well with wonderful company of course! See that's my wheel hiding under the blue cover and Laurie's Kiwi going for a ride in the van. Heather was gracious enough to let us descend upon her home. I in return brought my bears to party with her bear. We all brough our wheels and proceeded to spin all afternoon. Well... we did nibble at the tasty snacks she had and we played with Julia's drum carder too.
The first batch was a yummy blend of blues and greens. I took to calling it Mermaid Lagoon. The colors remind you of an intensely bright tropical lagoon with the light just sparkling off of it. Then we did something that seemed like Sparkling Berries. Both were just absolutely beautiful and tempt me to want to get a drum carder. Well, you know, after I auction off one of the Celtings.... The good news is that I relaxed and spun somewhat decently for once. IF I just keep going, I should have some "real" yarn soon. Not quite as good as this, but hey we aren't all perfect. Oh and Julia's roving is even better in person.

Anyhow, I started on my Lenore socks and I'm working on Rogue. No pics today but I'll post them tomorrw. A little too hectic and post holiday teardown around here for decent shots.

Woogie Woogie Cookies

2007-12-26T16:10:00.001-05:00

So as promised, I'm talking about Woogie Woogie Cookies. I know you're asking "CQ what the booger ARE Woogie Woogie cookies?" Actually they're just sugar cookies but they came to be known as Woogie Woogie due to small children remembering what to do. See when Elder Celting was younger, he started calling sugar cookies Wiggle Wiggle cookies because that's what you did with the cookie cutter. I would always say after he pressed it into the dough "Okay now wiggle, wiggle." Then a couple years ago Younger Celting was so excited about making the cookies, he mixed up wiggle and cookie as he was talking and it came out "Woogie, Woogie." It stuck. Now here's the kicker about our sugar cookies. They come from a recipe book from the 50's that my grandmother used. I'm not sure but I think Grandma said that it originally called for lard. We use butter flavored shortening. I've tried using butter, but the cookie spread too much and become too crisp. I like them thicker and softer. These have become the boys' favorite cookies to make.

Now on to knitting news. I managed to finish all my projects just in time for Xmas. I was seaming the Quidditch sweaters at my grandfather's on Xmas eve while we all were enjoying dinner. There were the three teacher scarves, a fluffy teal one, a fluffy purple one, and this lovely multidirectional. They all flew off the needles.

Then there was the Notre Dame de Grace sweater for my MIL. It was wonderfully received and once again, there was much surprise that I made it. Somehow, I wonder how it wasn't a backhanded compliment but all the same it is well loved.

My own mother was the recipient of this yummy shawl. Heather inspired me with the ones she made for herself and as gifts for her priest to give to his own mom. 4 balls of Suri Dream, some big needles, and a joyful time knitting.

So now what? Well, I'm finishing up the Transitional Gloves and the Animal Crackers hat so that I can do my swatch for the Rogue. YAY! I'm also getting ready to spin with the girls. Can't wait to have us all collected and spinning together on our wheels. I've never spun in a group before so hopefully I don't fail miserably. :)

Xmas Trees

2007-12-03T20:40:00.000-05:00

So every year here at the Celtic Castle, we decorate for the holidays. And every year, it's the same routine. The Celtic Consort pulls a ton of boxes full of STUFF out of the attic. He then piles the boxes in various areas for me to access. His entire involvement with indoor decoration extends to putting up the tree in it's most basic form. Seen here looking like nothing more than Charlie Brown's Christmas Tree.

Oh and his favorite part: The Bumble

Next up: Fluffing! Yes every year it's my job to "fluff" the tree. This means that I've got to take the tree from looking like some strangled branch to a full size tree. Breathing life back into the smashed branches from being packed away for a full 11 months. After I'm done it looks like this:

So then we begin to decorate. Wrap on the lights, multicolored for us. Then comes garland. It's a lot less mess than icicles and more dog friendly. I found some this year with some holly shaped pieces which carry meaning for me. Then there are all the basic balls and stars. They LOOK like they are glass but they are actually plastic. I got them the first year we had a tree when Elder Celting was still a toddler. This means non breakable ornaments. Then comes all the ornaments we collect. My mom is a big Hallmark addict. So everyone gets at least 2-3 ornaments every year. Each one has a story. This is my favorite part of the season. Telling the stories behind ornaments. Even my grandfather's tree has stories behind it. Like the angel my cousin made when she was 5.... she's now 26. There's those hot pink God's Eyes from Laurie I think. Oh and don't forget the Lifesaver/yarn guy I made in Sunday school. And in the end, I get a holiday miracle.

Next time: Woogie Woogie Cookies

My Knitting Ate My Blog

2007-11-13T19:22:00.000-05:00

Okay I know I'm a bad blogger. I've just been trying to focus on getting some knitting done and trying to finish out the soccer season. Good news is that on the soccer front, Elder Celting's travel team finally won a game and they all felt great. The soccer shoot is coming this weekend. Part of the fun of soccer is the parents/coaches vs. kids games. Laurie was kind enough to take some shots of the game.

So on the knitting front, I've cast on and made it through the front and halfway up the back for Elder Celting's Quidditch sweater. The Notre Dame sweater is waiting on blocking so I can seam up the shoulders and do the collar. I also need a button.

I've finished the first Coriolis sock and I'm on the leg of the second. I'm hoping to finish that so that I can send them over to my BIL Lou this weekend. I've also got a wrap on the todo list for my mother. It's similar to the ones Heather made. Oh and I've got THREE teacher scarves to make as well. Now do you get the title?

So in other news, we get new furniture on Thursday. YAY! And while we were shopping for it this weekend, we had lunch at Primanti's. Nothing says Pittsburgh quite like seeing your 5 year old eat a sandwich as big as his head. Funny thing about this shot is that the building it was taken in is the same location a picture of myself at a very young age drinking a shake as big as my head was taken. Laurie knows the picture.

Oh and keep your eyes open. As soon as I figure out the best way to do it, I'm posting my pattern for a few projects starting with the Fibonacci Moebius.

We Made State

2007-09-30T13:35:00.000-04:00

Elder Celting won his division of the Elks Soccer Shoot! He'll be moving on to the state competition to be held November 17 in State College, PA. Winners from that level, will move on to the regional which is 7 other states. We're very excited and EC is looking for the perfect place to display his new trophy. The competition was well organized and they had a pizza party lunch for all the competitors afterwards. This was where they passed out the awards. I'll post pics as soon as I get them developed. I couldn't be more proud.

MIA

2007-09-21T17:19:00.001-04:00

If I suddenly go MIA, you can find me here. I got my invitation to be a Raveler this morning. I'm not totally set up yet as I've been running about but I'm excited. Now all I have to do is focus on the knitting and not the web cruising and I'll be good.

Knitterati

2007-09-19T08:01:00.000-04:00

You know celebrities are chased after by paparazzi for nothing more than following their passion and working at what they love. Last night, I felt a little the same way. Elder Celting had soccer practice and as usual I brought my knitting, the Transition Gloves. As I watch practice and gossip with the other parents, I knit on them. Now at the same time as EC's practice, there is another practice with the girls' team for the same level. So imagine about a dozen and a half aspiring Mia Hamms, Julie Foudys, and Kristine Lillys, playing hard and working towards team coherence when the coach tells them to go get some water. At this point, they all come rushing towards the bleachers where I'm happily working on my project. Soon, they are all asking about them. "What are those?" "Gee those are pretty." "I can finger knit!" "I knit a little." "My Grandpap knits me scarves." And so it goes every water break. They oooh and aaah over the pattern and the project itself. Sometimes even to the point of me having to remind them to get back to their practice. Laurie has always teased me about my ability to find or attract knitters where ever I go. I always thought it just was me being a little more social and a bit lucky. Now I wonder.... are the knitterati following me?

BTW, if you're reading this and wondering why I'm posting so early in the morning, I'm home today. The van is being worked on and I needed a mental health day. So I'll be working on lesson socks and waiting for my KnitPicks package.

Little Feet

2007-09-16T10:51:00.000-04:00

This one's for Heather. After all, when she told me that she just wanted to chuck all her knitting to one side just to work on the lesson socks from Cat Bordhi's new book, I thought she was a little nuts. But I bought the book at Knit One just due to patterns included such as Robin Hood's Fireside Boots and Charlie's Dragon Socks. I mean come on people! That just screams the Celting household. I read the book. I flipped through the pages. The little lesson socks just cried to be knit. So I rummaged around for some partial balls and I started last night. Here's the first one. It's the Sky Sock. Instead of increases/decreases placed on the sides, the increases stem from the front center of the instep. Cat has versions of sock architecture for both cuff down and toe up. Of course being a cuff down kind of girl, I was startled to see that the one I found most appealing was a toe up design. The Coriolis. I'm hoping to finish that lesson sock later tonite. I'm also hoping I can get the jist of it to see if I can figure it out for cuff down.

And in case you're wondering, I didn't chuck all my knitting. I'm waiting for the yarn to arrive and I'm working on the Transition Gloves in transit and during soccer. I'll post more pics when they are further along.

I've Been Robbed

2007-09-11T21:46:00.000-04:00

Okay I'll admit it. I'm sulking a bit about my defeat on Saturday at Knit One. While many folks indicated how absolutely divine my wrap was, I was beat out by a cute little Rowan wrap. The creator had only been knitting for about a year and she did a great job. I do however think that it was not quite as fab as my project. I'd post a pic, but I need a good camera to get that.

In spinning news, I'm working on using homework time to spin more. Since the Celtings sit in the kitchen to do homework, I sit there to be sure homework is what's happening. Rather than knit or read, I think spinning would fit the area best.

In the mean time, I'm working towards kicking off the holiday knitting. Wish me luck.

Overheard Conversation

2007-09-06T21:21:00.000-04:00

Younger Celting: Nuh-uh!

Elder Celting: Uh-huh!

Younger Celting: Nuh -uh!

Elder Celting: Yuh-huh!

Younger Celting: Dad!

Celtic Consort: What?

Younger Celting: Does Elder Celting know more than God?

Celtic Consort: No, God knows everything, and your brother is only a fourth grader...

Younger Celting: Hmph... are you sure??

Celtic Consort: Yes

Younger Celting: How do you know?

Celtic Consort: Because I went to Catholic school with nuns.

Younger Celting: See I TOLD you!

This whole dialogue made me think of that show Are you smarter than a 5th grader? I also think that it's interesting that the selling point for validation that it wasn't just Catholic school... it was Catholic school WITH nuns.

Back to School

2007-09-04T08:20:00.001-04:00

First let me show you another newbie sock. Dee finished her first sock at our last meeting and I've been lax about posting. She did a fabulous job and I can't wait to see it as a set.

In other knitting news, I've finished the MS3 and now just need to block for Saturday. I'm trying to get Laurie to take some pictures so you guys can see it in a decent view. The Celtic Consort is working on getting me a digital camera but I have to wait.

Now the big news. Today is the first day of school. Both boys were excited to get out the backpacks and get moving today. For Elder Celting, it's fourth grade. His only disappointment is that the male teacher he was expecting won't be there this year as he had some health problems. Instead we have another woman who's introductory letter sounds promising. Let's hope for a smoother year this year.

For Younger Celting, it's the First Day of School. He has the same kindergarten teacher as Elder Celting had and even the same time (afternoon). He was quite excited to be an official big kid. I got a little teary eyed at my baby going to kindergarten. Where did that time go? He'll catch the bus from daycare and ride it back there for the first half of the week. Second half of the week, Dad will help with getting him there. Coming home will be with his older brother. I'm anxious to see how he likes it.

Newbies

2007-08-13T18:31:00.000-04:00

Can I just say there's nothing like someone's first sock? I mean as sock knitters go, you take a leap of faith that the heel will magically appear every time. But having done it before, you're somewhat reassured that yes, it really DOES happen. When it's your first sock EVER, despite reassurances, you're not really sure. You almost feel like it's an initiation ritual that they will reveal is a joke and show you the real way. Then you get to the toe, and while not nearly as intimidating, grafting is a whole new mystery. I mean come on, can you really get single piece of knitting from two without a visible seam? But then you see it happen, MAGIC!

So why the spiel? Well Stephie (forgive any mispelling), completed her very first ever sock on Friday at Knit Knite. She promptly received a round of applause and much congratulations. She even said there was no second sock syndrome as she was anxious to do the second to have a pair. She started with a pattern and then moved on to the sage advice of Heather who help guide her beautifully. I gave some minor advice on her continental style as out of the group I'm the only one. ( I know I'm weird) Beautiful sock and I can't wait to see the pair.

Stacy was also there working on her first sock. She seems to be making some good progress despite a few little pauses on Friday. It was a fortunate thing that we managed to find her again and she joined us at Borders.

And I suggest you all demand photos of Heather's current socks. I got to see the beginning parts and they are BEAUTIFUL. A lovely use of the color rich Shibui Knits Sock yarn.

But CQ, what about YOUR knitting? Well I finished the model for Bloomin Yarns and I'm finishing a matching cap. I also picked up some yummy Tilli Tomas silk yarn to do the River Rock scarf in a color called Glazed Ginger and found teal beads. YUM! I've also got back to MS3 and only have about 25 rows to go on Clue 4.

P.S. Laurie seems to think that I've cursed her with my witchy ways as she's now had to rip all the way back about 3 times. I have no idea what she could be talking about (whistling)

PeaPod Revisited

2007-08-01T20:19:00.000-04:00

So I had two baby sweaters to make. The first was my traditional Babies and Bears which was sweet and I promptly forgot to get a picture of. I'm told the recipient becomes quite active and cheerful when it is tried on. :) The second is this take on the Peapod. I like the one piece for the body as I'm not a big fan of seaming. I also thought it lent itself well to the yarn. It's Lifestyle yarn from Zitron. I bought it at Bloomin' Yarns and I'm glad I did. Nice hand, knits up fast, and easy care. The colors are a nice take on gender neutral without those washed out mint green and softy soft yellow. I'm thinking I'll have to try some of the other colors too for baby sweaters.

Speaking of Bloomin' Yarns, I'll be stopping by tomorrow to pick up stuff to do a shop model of a baby sweater with some cool sock yarn from Shibui. Heather picked some of this up in some yummy colors which I think will make some beautiful socks. I'm thinking some of these with a golden yellow or orange and teal. Trust me, you'll have to see.

Oh and if you're looking for an MS3 update, well I've taken pity on Heather and Laurie and have slowed down. Although seeing the message about Knit One's fashion show, I'm thinking I need to finish in time. I mean there are PRIZES people!

Where Have You Gone...

2007-07-24T19:19:00.000-04:00

No I haven't forgotten my friends in the blogosphere. I've just been running amuck in the real world. Heather would say that it was the reason I'm further ahead on MS3. She might be right but it wasn't on purpose. See she and Laurie tried to get me to sign up and I knew they already had by the time I did at the 11th hour. So I thought I'd be WAY behind. From the pic of our progress, you can see I was mistaken. Laurie's is the lovely lacey navy on the left. Heather's is the bright and sunny piece on the right. And mine is the plumy perfection (for me anyway) in the middle. I'm just about to start Clue 3. Special thanks to Heather for the shot as I've been lax about taking a picture since I couldn't do the yarn justice with the camera phone. This pic was taken at Knit One, while the three of us shopped in honor of Laurie's Bday. She turned 29 (with some experience) on Friday. I still find it fascinating how the same pattern can be played out so differently to reflect each person. Laurie's has the classic perfect dressy piece feel. Heather's reminds me of warm summer days and yummy nectarines waiting to wrap around you. Mine reflects the punk/Goth side coming out in something I can wear around less "adventursome" folk. :) So different, so same, all BEAUTIFUL.

Friday we also joined the mob at B&N for the Harry Potter release. I took both Celtings and they had a blast. Elder Celting won some Bertie Bott's Every Flavor Beans and Younger Celting won some make your own charm kit. Both were thrilled. Neither has read it yet but I finished it on Sunday night. Satisfying even if the epilogue is a little cheesy.

In other knitting news, I'll be at Borders on Friday nite as this is where we moved to. I missed the initial move due to Family Weekend. I'll be bringing one of the baby sweaters I'm working on. A faux fairisle self striper based off the Pea Pod sweater construction.

But EVERYONE's Doing It...

2007-07-07T17:39:00.000-04:00

So first off, I want to share my Sock in Socks. I finished on Wednesday but have not had the opportunity to post. I wore them to work yesterday with my crocs and loved how the colors peeped through the holes. I felt so accomplished when I pulled them apart after grafting the toes. So how did I do that? Well first I knit my usual toes and then seperated the stitches for inside and outside sock with 4 dpns(2 inside, 2outside). I then grafted the inside sock first but left the weaving in of the end until after. Then grafted the outside sock. This was trickier as I was grafting from the opposite side of the fabric than I was used to, but I did it. I wove in the end and then did a magic trick of pulling a sock out of a sock. Finally I wove in the last end and VOILA! A beautiful pair of socks. I think I'll do this technique again but we'll see how much I like it when the colors are not so wonderfully striped.

Things I learned from this:

Don't watch TV while casting on, you'll have to redo too many times.

Use stitch markers to count blocks of stitches when casting on, less counting

Ribbing isn't scary once you realize your rhythm

Continental or combination knitting makes this easier to figure out (thanks Laurie!)

First time round, do a self striper with easy to distinguish colors. This will help with being able to tell if you're using the right yarn

Making the socks face to face (knit the inside, purl the outside) really helps. (thanks again Laurie!)

Frequently check for crossed stitches. Much harder to go back

Don't be inimidated. When you first knit something it looked hard then too.

So what now? I'm working on one of my required baby sweaters but I've succumbed to the siren call of Mystery Stole 3. It was hard but I held out against Laurie and Heather signing up and trying to get me to as well. I even held out agains Yarn Harlot's post about it. But then I started reading more and more. And then the deadline was happening in mere hours. And beads... I love beads. But the nail in the coffin was Celtic Consort saying "that's good. you should pace yourself. Show some control." He might as well have said just do it. Most of you know that saying I shouldn't/can't/won't do something is issuing a challenge to do it. Right then I went, signed up, and starting looking at laceweight options. I knew I wanted something I could find locally but wanted to research online.

The Celtings and I were off this morning to cruise the local crack dealers for options. I decided that since I'd been thinking about Knit One lately, I'd hit there first and pick up on the back side. Fortunately, I didn't have to stop anywhere else. Lots of choices. They had the Helen's Lace in Black Pearl which was tempting. I had decided on the murky man colorway idea for my version. Something dark with a purply hint. They also had Handmaiden Camelspin (70% silk, 30% baby camel) which was REALLY tempting but no dark colors and none of any one to utilize for the project. Some nice Malabrigo laceweight too. But what captured my heart and wouldn't let go? Handmaiden Yarn's Sea Silk in Midnight. Heck even those pics don't give you a full idea. I even found beads that match almost exactly. I got my teeny crochet hook there too. The nice girl who helped (sorry I didn't catch her name) was even cool enough to help handwind a "naughty" skein when it kept snagging as we tried to do the ball winder. So now I'm off to catch up to everyone else. Check in for pics later.

Others

2007-06-30T15:28:00.000-04:00

The Celtic Consort has always expressed an interest in being one of "Them" or "Others". He also thought if he lived in the comic book universe he'd be a super villan. A proud moment for him was teaching Younger Celting his evil laugh. Kind of funny considering I'd always thought I'd be a misunderstood superhero. Karma is funny like that. So what's this got to do with anything? Well I went to knitting last nite and saw these: Hard to read I know but they're instruction manuals on how to be a super villan, better living for the super villan, the new superhero's handbook, how to survive a robot uprising, and how to be a pirate. But here's the funny thing. Look at what the sign above this display says:

Yes that's right it says IMPROVE YOURSELF. I found this hilarious. I mean who in management or marketing thought this was appropriate.

Anyhow, back to knitting. We MIGHT be relocating based on some reactions last nite. We are no longer posted on their calendar and we have to "make room" for some big event involving ghost hunters. While gently put to us, the attitude towards are group has really dropped off since we started two years ago. So two options are being investigated. Borders right across from South Hills Village seems to be okay and when called last evening we were told of a manager who also knits and spins. YAY! We've also discussed approaching Jo Beth on the Southside. This was kind of nice as it presented the opportunity of liquor and late night being added. I'll let you guys know.

Sock in Sock is moving along but has been delayed due to the deployment of the applications I develop at work. Think along the lines of giving everyone in my office the equivalent of a specialized Microsoft Office that I helped to design and develop. Neither small or easy. So knitting time was sucked up there. On the issue of the toe, I think I'm going traditional as I love the socks way to much to risk a toe I might not like. BTW, I saw the socks that Julia made out of her recent spinning efforts. One word: gorgeous. Okay two words: freakin' jealous. This girl always amazes me that she can do so many beautiful things. Makes me wish I had more time.

Conundrum

2007-06-22T18:32:00.001-04:00

Here's my latest question: Do I cave to the MIL's desire to have a picture of all 4 grandchildren or do I take a stand? My MIL continually ignores my two boys while lavishing attention on my nephew and niece. And I'm not just thinking this, my husband sees it too. She recently expressed the desire for the picture to her husband who then shared with my husband. My thought is that if she really wanted to see the boys, she would make it to at least a WHOLE soccer game or A baseball game in a season. She would take the 15 minutes to drive from her house to mine to spend an occassional afternoon with them. Heck, she might even call me to bring them to her house. Keep in mind here, that my SIL and her two children actually live further from her than we do and my MIL is frequently doing things with them. I'm also a little overdone with my SIL dictating how the pictures will go. She even did it when I had the majority of the children. I would like a say here as to where we go, when we go, and even what the pics should look like. So do I take a stand here and say, I'm not doing it until someone meets us halfway here? Do I remind my mother in law that she hasn't actually seen my kids since April when she came earlier in the week for Elder Celting's birthday because she wasn't coming to his party?

Okay rant over. Back to knitting:

Here are some pics of my turned heels. Was actually pretty easy to do. I was expecting difficulty but Laurie confirmed my suspicions on how it was accomplished which is similar to cabling without a needle. While I'm working on the gusset and foot, I'll decide what type of toe I'm going to do. Laurie did a star toe for hers but she has long pointy toes. I've got flat wide feet and tend to do my toes wider. I'll let you know what I decide. BTW, LOVE the stitchholders Mary Pat sent. They are fabulous for not dropping the stitches on these things. Next up, Babies & Bears sweater for the guy at work.

Happy Solstice

2007-06-20T13:57:00.001-04:00

Happy Solstice a little early! For those who know me, you know that tomorrow is a holiday, Summer Solstice. Apparently the magic of the day has come a little early to my house. I took the day off to get to an appointment for Elder Celting. This left me with a day to myself to enjoy the knitting I would do all day every day if I could. So imagine my surprise when I found not one but TWO packages in my mailbox. The first was from my exchange partner Mary Pat. Now here's a woman who knows my weaknesses. She sent a mug from her local chapter of the TKGA. This will be headed into the office tomorrow. In addition, she sent a Stitchkeepers which will help me keep my sock in sock from slipping off the needles. Funny thing was that when I read about them in Knitty's latest feature, I was thinking I needed to order some for our next exchange for HER! There was also a Go Knit Pouch in my favorite color and two bags of candied nuts which I can tell you already are tasty. :)

The second package was my latest installment from the Rockin' Sock Club. And rather appropriate for my celebrations tomorrow. The yarn is STR lightweight in a colorway named Firebird. All sorts of flamy colors in there. To show it off the pattern is The Solstice Slip. Rather on the money don't you think? Now the pattern can be done toe up or cuff down and I'm debating. I've been trying to get out of my usual groove so I might just do the toe up version. I don't understand the rabid devotion of toe up or cuff down that some folks have about socks. Me personally, I started with cuff down so that's what I'm usually thinking. That said, I don't find toe up difficult or objectionable. I'm thinking I'll do toe up just to break out from the norm.

But CQ, what about your Sock in Sock? Well here's my progress. I'm working on the heel and will soon reach the point for turning. I'll probably be calling Laurie for some advice but worst case scenario, I think I can manage. I'll also be working on plying my spinning. Julia's posts have been urging me on with this. There's also a baby sweater deadline around the corner. So there's a crunch for knitting coming and I'm going to get it done. I'm also thinking about what to make with the yarn I bought from Tess. Right now I'm thinking longer sweater, center cable surrounded by Fibonacci ribs. Input welcome. :)

Beautiful Weekend

2007-06-11T18:37:00.000-04:00

So what does the Celting Clan do with a nice weekend? Well to start with we picked up Elder Celting's friend on Saturday morning and jaunted off to the theater. We met up with Laurie and her OS to see Shrek the Third. She had just come from seeing Heather who declined to come as it would seem poor form for a mom to tell her kids she had ditched them and proceeded to see such a film without them. I was making sure to utilize the official Knit in Public day to work on my Sock in Sock which I had left off as this on Friday nite. Laurie seemed to think I had picked it up rather quick and I agreed. (Remember this later.)

We came home to a nice trek on our favorite trail in South Park with the Celting Consort. Such a spirit provoked both Celtings to do this:

And this:

Indoor camping at it's finest. I'm thinking later in the summer we'll have to do backyard camping.

Now remember when Laurie and I agreed on my knack for the Sock in Sock? We spoke too soon. Saturday nite, I was distracted by some good Futurama episodes and made a few crosses. After attempting to drop down some stitches and fix them, then proceeding to try and tink back after that didn't work. I said (insert favorit explitive here) and pulled them off the needles and frogged it. I quickly found that if I had gone down 2 more rows, I would've righted myself and not had an issue. As it was I spent all day yesterday attempting to get it going again after such a quick success the first time. Once I got the ball rolling, I was fine. I've been super diligent about checking for crosses since. See how pretty? I'm loving the way this is knitting up. The colors are so ME! I'm loving the summery vibe of it. I keep thinking of those utopian summer ideals of watermelons and sunshine and lush lawns. One of the girls at work said it reminded her of a vibrant field of poppies on a clear day. If this is what I'm thinking now, imagine what it will be like when I get to the toe. I can't express how bad the phone cam is not capturing these beautiful colors. I'm going to have to see if I can't get a real digital camera pic to show you how absolutely beautiful they are.

Get by with a little help...

2007-06-03T16:50:00.000-04:00

So I've finally snapped out of my funk. Why? Well this beauty is why. :) Yes, Miss Julia said thanks for the Maryland Swag by filling an order for some hard to get Vesper Sock Yarn. But even better is the colorway. It's an original named after yours truly. And she hit the nail on the head. This pics just do not do justice to the beautiful varied greens and flamy orange/reds. I've got to finish off my first STR Silkie Grasshopper sock before I can start my Sock In Sock. Talk about encouragement. I think it was the blue moon or maybe the Blood Moon we saw leaving Knit Knite at B&N. Speaking of which, Carly brought her friend Emily again. Yes she's converted another one. Emily's great and I don't think there's a musical she doesn't know. We're going to have to get both of these ladies addicted to socks shortly.

After my socks, I've got to do a baby sweater for one of my Sys Admins at work. He and his new wife are expecting their first at the beginning of August. It's going to be in that lovely stuff I bought from Tess in Maryland. As usual, I'll do a Babies & Bears maybe switching up the collar but I'll have to see. As the kindly elderly woman in Maryland said "It's not those CRAP baby colors." :) I'm hoping to get my blog act together this week since soccer is over and baseball is winding down. I know I only posted TWICE during May. The plan is to start plying my stuff on the spinning front and share my joy. :)

Here There Be Dragons

2007-05-22T18:33:00.000-04:00

Well it's eyeless but ready to be seen. Here's the Dragon Scarf. Elder Celting was happy enough to model it. He decided that he liked the red so he keeps this one. Younger Celting liked the green on the pattern so I'll be ordering stuff for that one. I'm hoping Morehouse Farm will allow me to get the kit at a discount since I've already bought one kit and don't need the pattern. With my luck, I'm going to be making the eyes myself and ordering elsewhere. So now I'm working on my Rockin' Sock Club pattern Grasshopper. Not sure how much I like it but I do love the yarn. And I'm waiting on my delivery of Vesper sock yarn to do my Socks in Socks. I think it's really a slump for me right now so perhaps I should be kicking to get the spinning done. Just working being motivated which is hard to do when you're attempting to keep up with soccer, baseball, and general Celting schedules. Not to mention trying to keep the coworkers functional to the point where I don't have to cleanup their messes. Perhaps I should just write a pattern or dye some yarn to get out of this funk.

I Can't Believe I Walked the Whole Thing....

2007-05-07T18:44:00.000-04:00

I made it back from the Festival and boy am I tired. I spent two days walking around trying to find beautiful stuff. I'm a couch potato and my legs are now reminding me. It was beautiful weather there. Cool not cold, beautiful skies. But on to the booty....
I got a ton of stuff see? My goal was to find some fun stuff to spin that I couldn't get locally. I was also wanting to get some fun yarns to play with. I think I got some good deals and some fun stuff. We started by going to The Fold for Socks that Rock. There was a line to get in just to look and a line to pay for your purchases. They were both long. Check out Laurie's page, she snapped some pics. I managed to get two yummy colorways and a pattern I've been liking. I showed great restraint. Then we were off to Little Barn for bargains. I found some yummy fibers to spin. That purple one and the stripey one. I spent about $20 for both. Laurie bought a ton of stuff to custom dye. From there, I went to buy stuff for myself, Julia, and Heather at the Festival counter. LONG LINE. But interesting people to talk to.

After that, we went over to Tess Yarns to see what she has. Always beautiful colorways and I'm weak. I was originally going to just grab a skein of ribbon and maybe some of her baby/sock yarn. See that bag of blue yarn? That's what I bought. I can't get the beautiful color to show right but it sang a siren song. Saw it and couldn't put it back. Was tempted with a sideways tank but when I went back on Sunday she didn't have enough ribbon in the color I wanted to do it in.

The rest of the weekend was spent trolling through all the booths finding yummy things. Laurie saw the Dragon Scarf and dragged me over. The Celtings adore dragons. Guess what they're getting. :) Found that burgundy/green/brown sock yarn twice. Once on Saturday and once on Sunday. It was meant to be as it's name is "Dirty Girl", go figure.

The most interesting person I saw though was the 6'4" man with a shaved head, Harley shirt, and a KILT. Snapped some pictures with the film camera and will post when developed along with his interesting story. Oh and there was this lady with purple hair to match her purple jacket. No she wasn't a 20 something. Try more like 50 or 60 something. Like that bright pastel purple you see in all the little girl clothes. Not sure what that was.

Well I'll post more as I wrap things up. Just wanted to share my stash expansion.

Rainy Weekend

2007-04-30T19:07:00.000-04:00

So what did the Celtic Clan do this weekend? Well we spent most of our Saturday running around in the rain. Early on we ran to soccer. Never let it be said that Elder Celting doesn't take his soccer seriously. This was his shirt afterwards. He was also playing "Iron Goalie" and stopped two goals back to back so just imagine the front. It was so rainy I couldn't get any knitting done at the game. I was too busy holding the umbrella and making sure Younger Celting was staying dry enough. I took the same mudcovered child home after for a quick shower, blowdry and uniform change to go to baseball pics.

From there we rushed off to McD's to grab some food before heading directly to the baseball game.... in the rain. But while we were in the drive thru I saw these lovely flowers and snapped a shot for Heather. The colors were beautiful and made me think of sunny days and my favorite new socks.

All day I was seeing colors I would love to include as part of a colorway in some handdyed yarn. I tried to get a shot of Younger Celting's eye with all these beautiful greens and hazels but none did it justice. So where's the knitting? Here. I made it out into the sunshine and got a shot of the finished product. I can't wait to wear it in MD, I just hope it's sunny. If you're there and you see me say hello. Should I be too distracted by yarn or fiber, funnel cake should help grab my attention. :)

So here's the funny thing about the latest project. I had remembered a mesh market bag pattern from my knitting calendar two years ago and had some hemp to start it with. I started working the pattern and realized that it was the same stitch I'd been using on the shawl. At least I'm in the rhythm right?

BTW, spoke to the principal today and I'm still mulling over Laurie's idea for an email campaign. At this point it's a he said she said game of EXACTLY what was said ("Lesbians hug each other." vs. "They're hugging which means they're lesbians.") One is a statement of fact not referring to the girls involved as lesbians. The other is saying that they are. Fine distinction but big difference in the cult of conformity called elementary school.

Let Me Get Out the Soapbox

2007-04-27T19:11:00.000-04:00

Today's post was going to be about how I finished my shawl and how pretty it was. This was until I came home to find the Celtic Consort seething and was asked to talk to Elder Celting about what he said in school. So I asked. I was promptly told the story of how two girls in his class had been startled yesterday and jumped together hugging. Elder Celting rather matter of factly that "Lesbians hug each other." He knows this because we have several friends who are gay or lesbian. We teach both Celtings to accept people for who they are and respect the fact that they pick the things which are right for them and may not be something you like. This means that both boys understand that to be a lesbian is to be a girl who loves another girl. So imagine my surprise to hear him tell me that using the word lesbian is bad.

The story gets worse. I talk to Celtic Consort about how this fell out with school. The principal said that this was not like calling someone four-eyes because this is a choice these people make. This is a lifestyle that people choose to live. Ummmm, okay, so does that mean if I call this woman a witch that I'll have to write an apology? After all, it was my choice to be wiccan. Celtic Consort pointed out to the principal that Elder Celting's godmother is a lesbian. This woman would not be swayed away from the idea that my child must be assimilated to the conformity of what seems to be passing as "acceptable" school behavior. What happened to love thy neighbor? It's not love they neighbor if they happen to be like you. Monday out comes the can of "Whoop-Ass" for the principal. I'm not backing down on this one because part of the reason that kids get upset when called gay or lesbian is due to the reactions of people like her.

In The Groove

2007-04-23T20:35:00.000-04:00

Well as you can see, I've made a lot of progress on my shawl. I would say I worked on it enough that 1/2 an evening of knitting will finish it off. This includes the likely frogging to get a couple rows of garter as the finishing edge. I was just in the groove yesterday. So much so that when it was time to put it down and go to bed, this is what I saw.

That's right, Dear Reader, that's a groove in my index finger. Before you think that color is bruising, it's just rub off from the yarn. It all happens due to the fact that I'm a "picker" and wrap my yarn in my left hand. Why I've started causing this groove due to tension these days, I don't know. You would think I'd have tight knitting but I'm a loose knitter. I have to go down 2 needles sizes on average to get gauge. Oh well, at least I'm enjoying myself.

No Pics Today

2007-04-17T19:29:00.000-04:00

Well I don't have any pics today as I've been in a holding pattern with the knitting and spinning. Not sure why except all the running I've been doing over the weekend. I plan on watching some spinning videos that Laurie loaned me. (I know I'm so wild and crazy, go ahead ask me about my body art.)

So did anyone else catch Yarn Harlot on Knitty Gritty today? I TIVOed it and thought it was good. Didn't pick up anything that I didn't already do but loved how she shared the demystification of the sock. I also LOVED the yarn when I saw it all over again. It was a beautiful green with some variegation in it. See Heather? No one likes GREEN. :)

Happy Birthday!

2007-04-13T20:00:00.000-04:00

Happy Birthday to the Elder Celting! He's 9 on this lucky Friday the 13th. Before you think I'm cheap just getting one cupcake, I made two dozen and the big bash is tomorrow. We're cosmic bowling. As you can see, the cupcakes are tasty and made quite the mess. What do you expect with double chocolate.

Now on to the knitting! I know I've been promising pics of my latest project and I keep forgetting. So here it is. See this yarn? This is the sparkly stuff I fell in love with and then Laurie and Heather helped me pick a color. I've turned into this so far. Do you like? The plan is to keep knitting until I run out of yarn. I think it should work out perfectly. The sparklies just don't show well in either of these shots. It's like looking at sunshine glinting off tropical waters. I so need to finish in time to wear to MD.

I also stopped over to Julia's blog today and saw her Bohus stuff. Why am I not surprised that the colorway I've been leaning towards is the one she picked? Lucky girl. :)

You Spin Me

2007-04-10T18:56:00.000-04:00

I spent the day playing with this. I wasn't originally going to do that but this morning I awoke with a splitting headache and knots all over. I promptly got the boys off to daycare, took some pain killers, and crawled back into bed. With the wonders of sleep and drugs, I managed to get up feeling like a normal person. Why waste an afternoon? I pulled out the wheel and started to work on expanding my skills.

This was what I ended up with after I got it going. I always hate to stop because it's harder to get back into the rhythm again but I suppose spinning for eternity just isn't going to work. I know the shot's a bit blurry but if you look, the stuff towards the ends is a little overspun but then I got the hang of it and had a decent spin with the stuff you see in the middle. I found the process to be helpful for my aches and pains. I wonder if this counts toward my calorie burning activities?

Flame On!

2007-04-09T19:38:00.000-04:00

Hey look at that! I finished my socks. And they're really comfy! I feel so much cheerier when I wear them. I was just disppointed I couldn't get a finished shot with them with some actual sunshine. We've been grey here in the 'Burgh. I finished up on these Friday nite at Knit night despite a small run in with the staff. So now I'm working on a shawl based on this swatch with the second variation mirrored. I'm using my sparkly yarn I got at the Knit & Crochet Festival (shots tomorrow when I can get a decent one.)

So I came home today and guess what was waiting for me? Yep that's it the wheel!!!! I'm being cautious about setting up because I want to do this right. I had a ton of packing materials to move out of the way before I could get to all my goodies. I almost lost a whorl in all of that stuff but fortunately, I read the papers that come with this stuff and noticed it was missing. I ended up digging down into the bottom of the box again to find it. I even got two oil bottles and a free bag. It was much like the holidays here. To answer Rani's question, this is my first wheel but I have test driven. I opted for a wheel after having no luck keeping a rhythm with a drop spindle. I'm thinking of taking tomorrow off just to spend the day spinning. Off to play, more updates tomorrow.

Birthday Post

2007-04-03T18:57:00.000-04:00

Well Dear Reader, it's that time of year again. Birthday Season. It has officially kicked off today with my aunt Jane's birthday. She's 32 with some experience. :) Jane too loves my grandmother's apricot pie so it's appropriate that I posted it yesterday. Sorry that it wouldn't survive the mail Jane.

Next comes Elder Celting's bday. As I mentioned yesterday, I waited to have him until after the potato salad. He has now come to associate potato salad with his birthday in the same manner as I have done with apricot pie and Easter. Smart kid. This year we will be bowling with kids from school at the local cosmic bowl. This means time away from the new wheel on the first real weekend I'll have it. (UPS has it on time for Monday. Curses!)

I also went birthday shopping today for someone else. I found some things that I thought would be useful in her next projects. She's so hard to buy for because I see so many things that I know she would enjoy that it's hard to pick just a couple. Hopefully, I picked correctly today. If not, well I could bribe her with yarn.

To keep myself busy, I'm working on some socks. See how pretty? (sorry it's blurry the other photo didn't capture the colors well) It's Lorna's Laces Shepherd Sock Sport in Flames. So not what I usually pick of the shelf but that's why I bought it (with a little push from Laurie.) I'm so glad she shoved me. I kept thinking about it while I made the Indecisive Socks. The siren call of the bright colors. So I cast on at Harlot's speech on Friday. As you can see, one sock is done, and I'm on the leg of the second. Nothing fancy. Just let the colors sing their siren song.

Beautiful Monday

2007-04-02T19:00:00.000-04:00

So today was a day of distraction. Distractions were catching. Laurie emailed to say she kept thinking about dyeing fiber. I was thinking about dyeing fibers as well as the coming of my spinning wheel. It was also beautiful outside. How beautiful? Well look what Younger Celting pointed out when we got home this evening. My magnolia (at least I think it's a magnolia) tree is starting to bloom. To give you an idea what this is like when it's in FULL bloom, I like to describe the tree at the Charlie Brown tree that plans on eating my house. It's big.

In response to Julia's comment from yesterday, I whole heartedly agree that we need to corrupt more peeps to spin. This was part of my distraction today. I figure if I could start a rowdy knitting group at B&N, I could probably get a group of spinners together somewhere. Besides, it will only encourage me to A) get out in public more and B) stay faithful to my spinning. So any spinners out there who are reading this and are in the Greater Pittsburgh area and are interested, give me a holler will ya?

Now here's something that will really distract a girl at work. My exchange partner, Mary Pat, sent me this lovely box for our spring exchange. She nailed my spring outlook right on the head, folks. See that tea? It's APRICOT. What's the deal with apricot? Well my grandmother always made apricot pie and cookies for Easter. It always makes me think spring. She also made her potato salad with a mustard style dressing at Easter. It was so good, I waited an extra day to be induced with Elder Celting so as not to miss it. Now as for the rest of the package, those blue candies are dark chocolate. YUM!!! I'm a big fan of dark chocolate. And what to say about that yarn! I'm thinking purple pansies. The colorway is LimeNViolet in honor of the podcast. And it's so soft. I'm just trying to think of a project which will do it justice. So a big spring THANK YOU to Mary Pat for being so good to me just when I need it.

And since Heather asked and she's always so good to me, I'm sharing my grandmother's apricot pie recipe in honor of the season.

Grandma Bea's Apricot Pie
1lb dried apricots
double pie crust for a 9 or 10" pie
lemon juice
cornstarch
1/2 - 1 cup sugar (Splenda works too)
ginger (optional)

Put the apricots in a pot with enough water to cover them and let soak overnite. Recover apricots in morning with water and stir in 1/2 cup sugar. Place on medium to medium/low heat and cook until either the "juice" has thickened or the apricots have burst their jackets depending on your taste. Add 1 Tbsp lemon juice and ginger to taste. Use lemon juice and sugar to taste. I like mine tart, my mother likes her's sweet (that's another story). Mix a few tablespoons of the "juice" with 1 Tbsp of cornstarch and add to pot. Stir over heat to thicken. Place filling in the crust and put second crust on top. Seal crusts and pierce with fork. (I like to put an A into the crust because Grandma did.) Bake in 425 degree oven for 30 - 45 minutes or until golden brown.

No Will Power

2007-04-01T10:59:00.000-04:00

So where have I been? Well I was prepping for visit to see the Yarn Harlot. While I was prepping it seems that people I talk to happened into her both Julia and Steven. I'm a little jealous. However, my socks, wine and chocolate were warmly received and Laurie's Knit in Public Gloves were a hit. She took our picture with the Sock but we didn't make the site. I'm a little bummed. Thought for sure we'd be mentioned but no luck. She did mention bad pictures so I'll just assume that we're in the bunch. The visit was entertaining and it was great to talk to all the knitters who were there. I was surprised how many out of the crowd I had said hello to or knew or had seen. It was also fun to be able to hang out with Laurie and Heather afterwards. I never get girl nite.

So I broke down yesterday and bought my wheel. They say it will go out on Monday via UPS. So I'm sure I'll have it for the weekend. YAY! I went to Woodland Woolworks and called to order. They had the best overall deal. I had found the wheel at The Woolery for about $6 less but Woodland adds in value packs which gave me a lot more. With my value pack, I ended up with about $75 of extra stuff. I picked a set of half size combs, a spinner's control card, and a pretty diz. See? You can't say you're surprised by the style people. I mean LOOK at my super hero name over there. If that didn't give you a clue then perhaps you need another cup of coffee. I also order some Colonial Heather Top in a soft purple and some in Teal. I had liked the colors even before I talked to Laurie who pointed out the color blending would help show twist and angle. I didn't get a bunch because I'm planning on buying fiber in MD. In the meantime I'm sitting tight here waiting for the wheel.

We Wish To Welcome You To Munchkinland

2007-03-28T18:16:00.000-04:00

See this hat? It's called Cutie Patutti. I call it fugly. This was the firststhing I thought of when I saw Annie Modesitt's baby onesie in the new Vogue Knitting. Laurie also commented about the onesie. If you were planning on being mean to a baby, these are how you'd do it. It's Laurie's opinion that I make this for my SIL whom I can't stand next time she has a baby. I don't like her, but geez it's not the kid's fault. I'm not that mean... to kids.... that aren't mine..... I mean look at that thing over there. I'm thinking either cabbage or Munchkin when I look at it. (Come on, you know you can here them singing "We represent the Lollipop Kid... the Lollipop Kid... the Lollipop Kid.")

On to brighter news on the knitting front, I wove in the ends on the Beckham beanie and will be casting on this evening for the second one. I've got to dig out the hunter orange and camo yarns. But take a look at the socks. Almost done, yet look closely. Notice Dear Reader, that while I used the same number of stitches in blue as in green, I have much more green than blue left to go. Good thing I thought ahead on this. I'm prepared with more blue but just poopy that I have to call it out.

Oh and I got a bonus from work! Yay me! Didn't get the title to reflect the role I already play, but some monetary gain will distract me almost as much as something shiny. Anywho, I'm going to use a portion to buy a spinning wheel. See Heather, I played honestly. :) So now the question is do I just order the Schacht Matchless or do I hold out until MD to test drive some more and hope for show deals. Hmmmmm

Signs of Spring

2007-03-26T19:04:00.000-04:00

First knitting news for all of you. I'm almost done with the hat just need to do the last round of decreases and pull the end through. However, I've finished the first sock and I'm up to the leg on the second. At this rate, I should be able to finish the second sock and start on the second hat. I'm hoping to use up the last of the camo yarn from the Celtings camo sweaters for it.

On to the subject of Spring. This week I've had a few signs of spring. First was the call from the soccer coach reminding me that soccer started Saturday... at 8:30am. Now for those of you who don't know me, I could sleep until noon if the Celtings would let me so this is butt crack of dawn early for me. I am prepared with my knitting gloves but still need to order my Lava Buns. Now if only Starbucks delivered.

Yesterday evening was the second sign. After the Celtings had spent a glorious spring day playing outside ("Go be boring outside!"), I found a familiar and painful sight when then trekked back into the house. Bright pink sunburn on the back of their necks and across the bridges of their noses. Now I'm a fair lady so I can sympathize with the pain but boy does it make them look even more active and handsome. I should've known better but who's thinking sunscreen in March?

The third sign came as a call from the baseball coach rattling off all the details of upcoming practice. Everyone say "Go Padres!" as this is our team. Now if I recall, the Padres are navy and white which means investment in stain removers for Mom. Keep your fingers crossed that they go for grey and not white pants.

But here's the biggest sign... all 85lbs of her. Ginger, our dog. It's that time of year where we prop the front door to let in the fresh air and let her roam freely from inside to outside. In general a nice thing since we're not continually getting up to appease her exuberant behavior. However, Ginger is quite "chatty". This means anyone she can spot on our street, she must tell that this is HER YARD! And heaven forbid if you are a tall dark haired man or have a tiny dog. These people make her bark twice as much. To put things into perspective for you, Ginger is half Lab and half Rhodesian Ridgeback. This means she sleek, muscular, and darn intimidating when she's barking. Reactions range from some guy's "That's a good dog to have!" to the tiny tot's "PUPPY!! Pretty PUPPY!!!" to the most common... running like wild hounds are chasing you. So once again, I'm thinking of the bark collar. Not the zappy one, but the one with a citronella spray to distract her. Until then, it's outside with the bitter apple spray when excessive barking comes into play. Let's hope our friend Russian Lady doesn't reappear soon.

Are your balls big enough?

2007-03-24T09:57:00.000-04:00

Well last night was Knitting night. We all got together at the B&N at South Hills Village and did our usual sharing. It was like old home week as members who had been missing for several get togethers had a chance to stop in. Steven brought the Marley and I got to crank. See this? This is your yarn... this is your yarn on crank. The plan is for approximately 200 skeins of this brightly colored yarn to be cranked on one of those little machines to make icord. The icord will then be knit into a very large clown scarf. As you can see, the colors lend themselves well to the process. I took a turn and received one of those little badges you see in the corner.

What? Your asking about those socks I'm working on? Well nothing exciting picture-wise so I didn't want to waste your bandwidth. The good news is I'm close to finishing the first one and will spend the rest of the weekend trying to make significant progress on the second. In the middle of all this I'm making some Beckham Beanies for the Represent tour. Harlot is here on FRIDAY!!! Must get cracking. If you're going to be there Friday night, look for me. I'll be the crazy redhead who will talk to anyone.

Ever run out of projects?

2007-03-22T18:45:00.000-04:00

About a month back, I was at the In-Laws for dinner to celebrate DH's birthday. As we sat chatting, my MIL asked about the project I was working on. It was a pair of socks for one of the boys. This then led to asking about my various knitting projects. My FIL was wearing the gansey I did for him for the holidays. I was wearing some Socks That Rock socks in a color whose name I can't remember. This prompted her to ask "So do you ever run out of projects?"

I couldn't help but to laugh. Run out of projects? Is there such a thing? If anything, I have a backlog of items I need/want to make. I have bins and hope chests full of yarn and knitting implements. So what dear Reader, prompted me to post about this? Well, I was reading about people in the Rockin Sock Club who still had kits from last year. I couldn't understand this. Why join a club if you're not going to work on the items? Then there was the person who posted she was afraid to knit the first kit. She stated she knew she had the skills but just couldn't do it. Afraid? Knit? What???

It hit me then, the first time I bought some Socks That Rock yarn. I was at MD Sheep & Wool and saw a beautiful sock. I bought some skeins because the colors were beautiful and I like how they pooled in the sample. I also bought a second colorway because I just couldn't decide. It was one of those "one of everything" moments. So the first set of colorways were knit into my favorite socks. Tigers Eye and a copper color. I was tempted to buy Rocky Horror which didn't have the white and just for the name but thought this would work together.

What happened to the other color? Weeelllll, it's still wound and waiting for me to make into something loved. The color is called Jewel of the Nile and was GORGEOUS in the skein. The ball doesn't do it justice. So now I'm thinking some new socks or handwarmers are in order. My goal here is to get some more yarn out before I hit MD again. Because you know, I'm coming home with loot.

Oh and in response to Laurie's comment yesterday, the dancing and bonfire happen for Beltane

Spring has Sprung

2007-03-21T19:09:00.000-04:00

I know some of you are wondering what happened to me yesterday. Here I started this lovely new blog and suddenly didn't post. You guys even left nice comments. I felt popular. Well I was busy doing things for the Vernal Equinox. It's not a huge celebration at my house but we do observe. And before you ask, Laurie, no I did not dance naked in the backyard.

Now back to knitting news. I've turned the heel on the brioche socks. I haven't knit in a few days because I've gotten pulled away (my aunt Jane sent me this quiz which I received 9 out of 10)but here it is. Look at how "artsy" the shot looks. Pure dumb luck with the phone cam and my background (my black glass top side table). Anyhow, it's a short row heel to go with the short row toe. I'm loving the construction so far and it's fun to do. So here's to no second sock syndrome.

For those of you looking for a pattern, I'll work it up when I'm done. This is one of my many, fly by the seat of your pants projects. Take a fun idea and run with it. I'm also hoping to cast on a quickie hat for Yarn Harlot's Represent Tour. I need to at least have one but I'd like to do two. After all, Elder Celting has off and on picked up the needles but isn't proficient enough to do a hat yet. I think he should be represented as well since you want to hold up the example of the strong male knitter.