Knitting in the North

Making the Move

2007-01-26T11:46:00.000-08:00

I'm pulling up my socks and making the move over to Typepad. Please, come visit me there!

On Deck

2007-01-20T16:28:00.000-08:00

Because I am attempting to knit from my stash, it is only normal and natural that my next project (Stuart’s big giant neverending Aran sweater has been bumped) required the purchase, not only of yarn, but of a pattern as well. Since it was me doing the purchasing, you will please note that it was all on sale, because that makes me feel better about the whole thing. My mum’s birthday is in April, and she loves tank tops, and at least claims to love my knitting. Last year, I made her a lambswool knitted shell in a royal purple, a colour I always associate with my mother, even though I don’t think she wears it often. This time, the shell is silk, and a soft leafy green. There are cables running up the front, and it has a high, round neckline, which would drive me crazy, but she seems to really like. I purchased 9 balls of Estelle Silk yarn, and it’s tucked away waiting for me to finish my Sockret pal socks. (I’m hoping to have the heel finished tonight on sock #2). Do you ever watch yourself knitting? I was sitting on the couch in the sunshine this afternoon, watching my fingers as I knit around and around. I’m truly impressed with myself. I go on and on to people who ask me to explain knitting about how easy it is, how they could learn in no time, how simple of a process it really is. The fact of the matter is, as I sat and watched what I was doing, I felt pretty darn bright. Look how quickly my fingers move, what beautiful motions my hands go through, what my movements produce! Clever girl.

Halfway

2007-01-17T13:31:00.000-08:00

I'm halfway there on the Sockret Pal socks – one down, and one to go! Even though this colourway is not my favourite, the patterning and colour changes are certainly entertaining! I often find myself saying, “Just one more stripe,” or “When I get to the next red, then I'll stop.” For those of you who asked, this sock yarn is On Line, but I'm not sure of the exact number, as I've misplaced the ball band. Hopefully it will turn up before I mail these, so I can tell my pal what it is she's getting! I had a peek on the net, and didn't see this particular colourway, but there are many, many out there with similar striping/patterning. This whole process has got me wanting to cast on a pair for myself! This is not to be, as Brian has claimed the right to the next pair! He's trying to decide between the brown/black stuff Jo sent, and some blue/green stripey stuff in the stash. As well as working on my Clapotis (nothing new to show you, just lots more of the same to come), I decided to knit myself up a Calorimetry to keep warm the next time the temperatures take a dive. As much as I believe in the magical warmth of a woolen hat, my hair does not agree, and it is not a pretty picture by days end. I'm hoping this headband-ish accessory will be the answer. I have been reading what others think of the pattern, and since most people have mentioned how large it came out, I planned ahead. I bought yarn just a tad lighter than called for, and went down a needle size as well. Even these measures, unfortunately, were not enough. My Calorimetry is still large, and is in the washer right now, hopefully felting just a bit. Just a bit, mind you. (If it shrinks far too much, I suppose I can always give it to Katie!) I've been holding off posting so that I could show you, but look for it tomorrow. Whenever I start the phrase, “Look for it by...” I feel compelled to finish it with “moonlight”. Anyone else? Yikes, we could have a 100 weird things meme going around, if I'm not careful. Final note: So here's the deal - like many of you, Blogger has been driving me crazy. I decided to give Typepad a try, and so am doing a 30 day free trial. So far, it has pros and cons, and I am undecided. I had originally planned to ask nicely if any of you would like to check it out, give me some feedback, and let me try out the comments feature. Blogger is being ugly again, though, and not letting me post pictures. So, if you want to see the sock, just click here.

A Little Bit of Lace

2007-01-14T21:02:00.000-08:00

I've promised pictures of some of the treasures that have come my way of late. Here, then, is installment #1. Several of you know the wonderful Jo, of Celtic Memory Yarns. Just before Christmas, a wonderful parcel arrived in the mail all the way from West Cork! I was holding off posting, since Jo was away for some fun in the sun, but if she's not back yet, she will be soon, I hope (I'm very much missing her posts).

This lovely laceweight wool is, I think, destined to become a wimple, perfect for warming my neck, and pulling up to cover my ears and head if the chills come suddenly. I've been taken with this pattern for a while now, and am looking forward to trying it out. And the colours! Thank you, Jo, for some of my favourites.

Just look at this! 600M of laceweight wonder, which I believe wants to be made into a shawl. A soft, light shawl. This will have to marinate in my stash for a while, as I don't know if I'm up to a shawl pattern yet of the ilk that this yarn is calling for. But one day, we will be ready together!

50g of sock weight cotton and wool, in nice “boyish” colours, immediately was claimed by Mr. Brian. He's becoming a handmade sock lover, and thinks this would be perfect for him. As you know, he's the most appreciative little person, so how can I refuse? Finally, my most favourite part of the whole thing! Readers of Jo's blog may recognize this – a special gift from Muffy, just for me. I tell you, what a thoughtful little dog! I feel so special when I realize that she was “helping” get things ready for me (and a thorough little thing she is, too!). One day, when I feel the need for some therapeutic untangling, I feel this very much wants to be a wispy lace scarf. One day.

Do-Over

2007-01-10T12:48:00.000-08:00

I had a lovely, page long post all written up yesterday, but a helpful family member shut the computer down for me, and it was lost. Ah, well. The blog world has certainly been quiet lately. I suppose we're all recovering from the busyness of the season, and I know I will be glad to settle back into my routines. I do miss the kids, though. (I'm the only mum I know that was sorry to have them all back to school!) Nope, this is not the start of sock #2, sadly. Remember when, as a child, you asked for a “do-over” when playing a game? That's what I needed here! My Sockret Pal socks took an unpleasant turn over the weekend. I was following a pattern, and just didn't like the way the heel was looking. I tried ripping it back and using my own heel, but it didn't work for me. For all my blather about my “non-conformist hippy side”, I am most comfortable following a pattern. And I really want them to be nice for my pal. So, we're back to the start (I'm using the Harlot's vanilla sock pattern), and I've been taking it with me in the truck to get a few extra rounds in here and there. I mentioned earlier that Stuart gave me some yarn for Christmas. In order to provide positive reinforcement, and thus ensure many more gifts of yarn, I cast on right away (I think, even, Christmas Day) for a Clapotis. I've always wanted to try this pattern, and even though this is not the usual yarn for this kind of project, I'm happy with the way it's looking. I'm very pleased with the colour changes in the yarn, and the fact that the subtle striping will be opposite to the dropped stitches. I've dropped three stitches so far, and this will be a great wrap for curling up on the couch. (The fact that it's machine washable doesn't hurt!)

I took advantage of nap time yesterday and plied my first yarn! The more full bobbin is the first yarn I spun, and the other is the more recent spinning. I'm happy to see that I'm getting much more consistent in thickness. Since this is natural wool, I've told Brian that we can do some Kool-Aid dying, and he's very excited!

Do you see what I see in the pictures today? Sunshine! After days and days of grey (but very mild) weather, we're back to bright and bitterly cold. Our high temperature today looks to be about -19 C. But the sun, I am so grateful for the sun!

And Now, The Moment You've All Been Waiting For...

2007-01-06T13:30:00.000-08:00

Let's clap really, really hard for the special sweater we see today! (Sorry, too much TV with the kids :0) Here it is, The Pirate Sweater in the flesh! I finally bit the bullet and helped Brian clean up his room, and found the sweater packed in his suitcase for his next big trip. On to the particulars! Pattern: Pirate Sweater, from Adorable Knits for Tiny Tots, by Zoe Mellor. Yarn: GGH Bali (a machine washable cotton/acrylic blend), 3 skeins of blue, 2 dark brown and 1 bone. Needle size: US size 4 straights Started: August 2006 Finished: December 2006. If I hadn't procrastinated so much on the intarsia, it would have been finished and tucked away well in advance, but you know. It was just so intimidating! Now I know better. I knit the largest size, for a 4-5 year old, and it just fits. I didn't even think to check the measurements on an existing sweater, something I plan to do in the future. Ah, well, it fits now, and is much loved - which is the important thing. I'm pretty proud of myself, I haven't knit a whole lot of "big" projects, and this was such a success.

Off to a Good Start

2007-01-04T15:04:00.000-08:00

Less than a week into the new year, and a Finished Object already! Let's hope it's a trend! This is the String Bag #3 from Ruth's blog (look on the sidebar). I chose this one because she said it was streamlined and fast, and she was right! The pattern is well written, and this bag is a fast, simple knit – but still very functional. I made this one about 20 repeats long, and it's just the right size for a couple of skeins of yarn and a pattern. Since this bag is for my Knit Mitt Kit Swap partner, it's perfect. Unfortunately, I'm still waiting for the yarn I ordered for her to arrive, and I'm starting to get worried. These swap packages are all supposed to be mailed on January 16th, so I may have to make an emergency run to my LYS. I used the EcoFil yarn I bought at Wal-Mart for this, and it's perfect! This yarn is very inexpensive, and a cotton/acrylic blend. In further Very Responsible Knitting, I cast on for my Sockret Pal socks. She said she loves jewel tones, and I'm hoping she will enjoy these. I haven't had a lot of sit down and knit time lately, but I did get to curl up last night with the sock and an episode from Season 2 of The Pretender. I did a bit more spinning today, and am even more happy with the result than I was yesterday. My plan is to spin up all the easy-to-spin fibre my teacher gave me, and then, when I'm feeling totally full of myself, move on to the pretty stuff. Hopefully by then, I won't make a mess of it and knock myself down a few notches!

A Spinning We Will Go

2007-01-03T15:24:00.000-08:00

Welcome to 2007! I hope your New Years' was wonderful, and that the first few days of this year have treated you well. Our New Years' Eve was very nice, we had dinner with some friends, and were home by 8:30 to tuck the kiddies in bed. I think this may well be the first time I have ever made it to midnight! Generally I am sound asleep, but since I've been working evenings, I've become used to later hours, and was able to do it. Even better, the kids slept in the next day, so I did, too! Yesterday I had my first lesson in spinning. The wonderful Loralee, from Mud River Angoras came to my house, bringing her wheel and two tubs of amazing fibre, and got me all set up. It was exciting and frustrating at the same time, and since I'm not the most co-ordinated of people (things like dancing, or walking without falling down, have never really come naturally to me), it took me a bit to get the hang of different things all going on at once. After I started “pre-drafting” the fibre, it became a little easier. The wheel Stuart bought me not only came with lessons from Loralee, but also a $50 credit. She brought me, to start, some very basic, easy to spin natural wool, and left me one bit of Corriedale as well, to inspire me. Oh, the decisions! Do check out her website if you're into the fibre, as it's all so lovely! My first yarn was painfully imperfect – full of slubs and overspun bits. I will admit to being a touch disappointed. I had this fantasy of sitting at the wheel and bowling away my teacher by being such a natural! Sadly, this was not the case. Today, however, once the little ones were napping, I sat down again. It started out as before, but as I went it suddenly became magical. Everything was flowing, and I was making yarn! Here it is, my first yarn (at least, the first yarn I'll admit to!). Look for actual knitting content tomorrow – I finished the string bag, and started the Sockret pal socks. I also received some yarny goodness in the mail, so pictures will be forthcoming!

Year in Review

2006-12-30T11:47:00.000-08:00

I was thinking about what I have accomplished this year, and wasn't very impressed with myself. Once I started going back through the blog, though, I realized I have knit more than I thought. Here is my 2006 Knitting Year in Review: I started off with Anouk for Gwenyth, and then moved to a lambswool purple shell for my mother. The pattern was from an old copy of Interweave Knits, I think summer 2004, and was supposed to be done in hemp, or something like that. I took it to her in May, but completely forgot to get a picture of the finished object. (I was new to blogging back then, and didn't know the cardinal rule: Take pictures of everything!) I've knit 4 hats, 2 pairs of baby socks, Brian socks, Katie socks, and Socks of Doom for myself. Six different scarves and a neck kerchief came off the needles. I also knit Gwenyth a sweater, using the ChildHood pattern from Knitty. I made Tank Girl, from Stitch 'n Bitch for myself, and the Short Snort Tank from Knit and Tonic, for Katie. I didn't forget about the hands, either. Flap-Top mittens, from Handknit Holidays, went off to my step-father. Four pairs of fingerless gloves snuck in there as well, including the always popular Fetching. Of course, we can not forget the most important knit of the year: The Pirate Sweater. I swear, I'll post a picture of Brian actually wearing the thing as soon as I unearth it from his bedroom. There was all kinds of drama yesterday when he went to wear it, and could not remember where he put it away. This is a very small house. It can't be far. All in all, I see lots of small projects, and I plan to focus on a few bigger, more complicated things this year. I've already told you about the Aran sweater, which I'm going to start as soon as I finish the string bag I'm working on. I also have my Sockret pal socks about to go on the needles. I want to try some socks for myself on two circular needles. I would like to do some lace knitting, including finishing Orangina, knitting up a wimple for myself (don't you love that word? Wimple. I just like to say it.), and doing the Rusted Root pattern. That's also for myself. Oh, and a cardigan. No pattern as yet, although I'm quite taken with the Arianns that I'm seeing everywhere. You guessed it, also for me, me, me! I see a whole lot of selfish knitting in the works! Along with many others, the drive to use my stash has grown recently. I am not willing to commit to exclusively stash knitting, since I know myself well enough to know that doing so will simply drive me straight to the LYS. I do, however, want to have more going out than coming in, if you know what I mean. I'm not sure exactly how to measure this – should it be space, weight, yards? I'm sure it will come, but that's my big goal, anyway. Use more than I buy. Even I should be able to manage that, eh? Note to Billie: I ended up ripping the EcoFil sweater, I was finding it too tough on my hands to knit that yarn at that gauge. I'm using it right now for the string bag I have on the needles, and I think it's great for that kind of purpose. I'm not sure if it's the best yarn choice for “Rockstar”, as I don't think you'd get the drape that you see in the front, where it ties. The yarn they used in that pattern is a wool/silk blend, and you may want to use something a bit softer for that pattern. I still maintain it's a good yarn, though, and I may even give it another try at a baby sweater, something like a little jacket-ey kind of thing. Happy New Year! I hope and pray this year is filled with peace and joy and new experiences for all of you!

Christmas

2006-12-27T14:18:00.000-08:00

The big day has come and gone, leaving satisfied children in its' wake. The holiday was very nice for us all. Christmas Eve I worked in the morning, and came home just after lunch. We visited for a while, then got ready for church. Brian surprised me by dressing himself, in little beige cords, a blue button down shirt with beige and black in it, and a little black tie! What a handsome boy I have. It showed up his dad, who then had to wear a tie as well (Tee Hee!) I love Stuart in a shirt and tie, but he doesn't put one on very often. What a proud mama I was, sitting there with my lovely family, enjoying the music and reflections on the scripture readings. After the service, we took a drive through “Candy Cane Lane”, a neighborhood here that really goes all out with the lights. They even string lights back and forth across the street, and it's a magical experience for everyone. Even little Gwenyth got in on the Oooohing and Ahhhhing. We came home to a simple supper, and then each child opened one gift (it's always pajamas). We watched The Polar Express, read for a bit, and sent everyone off to bed. It sounds very peaceful, and would have been, if not for Brian, who was so excited I'm surprised he didn't turn inside out! The poor guy was up at midnight and 3:30am, checking to see if it was time to get up yet, and then all three were on me in bed at 6:00am, ready to get started! It is so much fun watching them, and experiencing the thrill and anticipation through them. I'm generally not a big one for talking about gifts I receive. I do, of course, about swap packages and such, since that's part of the deal, but there is a part of me that cringes inside when someone asks, “So, what did you get?”. I always want to respond, “What did you give?”, but seldom do. I try to remember, and to teach my own little ones, that we give gifts to remember and celebrate The Greatest Gift ever given, and that when we are opening presents, what we hold in our hands is a symbol of the love that someone feels for us, not just some toy or book. It's hard to focus on this, especially with all the influence around us that is so about The Stuff, but we try. However, the children this year, did each have one particular gift that really seemed to capture their attention, and it was interesting to see what is was. Katie received an MP3 player, and spent the rest of the day walking around yelling at everyone, since she doesn't get that we can hear her just fine, even if she can't hear herself. Gwenyth was given a baby doll, complete with bottle, hair brush, and her own little teddy. It was so sweet to watch her feeding her dolly, and fixing her hair. My baby is really growing up! Mr. Brian, in true boy form, was fascinated with a dragon toy. It came in a plastic egg, and the parts were enclosed in a slimy kind of sac. Each piece was pulled out of the sac, and then put together. Very cool. I was pleased, though, to see the little ones so impressed with a relatively simple toy. They didn't need the big, fancy sets, or expensive gadgets (Katie, of course, being a Pre-Teen, was taken in by technology, but I was expecting that). I must share what Stuart gave me! I was touched by his thoughtfulness, his great desire to give me something meaningful and special, even though he doesn't always understand why I enjoy certain things so much. One gift was a basket, containing 3 skeins of Homespun yarn, along with two knitting fiction books. The other was an Ashford Traditional spinning wheel! I'm excited about it, and apprehensive at the same time, about delving so deep into another avenue of fibre. Where on earth am I going to put bags of fleece? I am going for a lesson on Tuesday next week, and am so excited about it! I've been reading up on the internet, but am afraid to touch the wheel until I've had some guidance, in case I wreck it or something. And it looks so pretty standing in my living room!

You Want It, You Got It!

2006-12-22T09:29:00.000-08:00

I overheard a conversation the other day at work, between a girl and her friend. Working where I do, you can imagine I am almost completely surrounded by teenagers and young adults, and the dramas of young love, and how engrossing it all is. There are constantly people liking each other, dating each other, “hooking up”, breaking up, falling in love, falling out of love. It's entertaining in many ways, when it's not so irritating. However, in this conversation I heard, the Girl was sharing some weird thing that her new “Guy” did, and it creeped her out. I heard her say, “I mean, like, who does that?” This got me to wondering – I think I'm a pretty normal person, but then, we all do, right? It's not until we really get to know someone, “live in their skin”, that you see all the little eccentricities that make us, us. Someone told me the other day that they heard about someone they called “quirky”, and thought of me. What does that mean? Am I quirky? Is quirky the same as weird? Is there something wrong with being quirky? You may have guessed (and I've mentioned before), that while I live a very conventional life, underneath it all, there's this non-conformist, rebellious, hippy-like person. This person works very hard, I think, to keep me quirky, to keep shaking things up a bit. At the same time, I've been reading these memes, and thinking to myself, I couldn't possibly think of SIX weird things about me! Now I've been tagged THREE times, so I'll share Six Weird Things About Charity. 1) I spent part of my growing up years living in a school bus that was converted to a camper. My family traveled down to the southern States in it, and I believe that this was where my deep love for the ocean took root. I have a picture of myself as a very small child, building a sandcastle on the beach, and that picture has always been a sort of talisman for me. 2) If I can avoid it in any way possible, I will not drink out of plastic. (Yes, Shelley, even the hard plastic communion cups – give me a common cup any day, as long as it's not also made of plastic. Do you know how weird it looks to see someone throwing back their communion drink like a shot of tequila?) I have very strong memories of drinking weak Kool-Aid out of plastic cups at my grandmother's house, and the drink smelled like funny Winnipeg water. I just can't make myself do it, unless it would be blatantly rude not to. 3) I have a tattoo. Admittedly, this is not so weird, and I wouldn't even include it if it weren't for the strong reaction I get from every single person who discovers this about me. I guess I just don't seem like the tattoo type. Stuart & I went together on one of our anniversaries, and got the same tattoo (an Asian character symbolizing prosperity – he picked it, not me) in the same place (on the spine, just under the collar). 4) I chew everything I eat equally on both sides of my mouth, and have since I was a small child. I heard on the television when I was about 6 years old, that if you chew always on the same side of your mouth you will wear those teeth down, and the mental image that I had was so awful! I mentioned before that I sort my Smarties, but I also only eat them in pairs, one on each side of my mouth (and in the same order as the colours of the rainbow). This past summer, I had a root canal and crown put on one of my back teeth, and the worst part of the whole experience was not being able to (and forgetting and trying and then it hurt to) chew on that side of my mouth. 5) I am schooling to become an accountant, and numbers are very important to me. Dates, however, are completely unimportant to me, and when someone asks me what my kids' birthdays are, or when my wedding anniversary is, I almost always have to look it up. I have forgotten how old I am a time or two as well, and had to do the math to figure it out. One whole year I went around telling people I was a year older than I really was. Stuart & I tend to celebrate our anniversaries at different times, now, because I picked the September long weekend as our anniversary, when we really got married in November. So I give him a gift in September, and he gives me a gift in November. The bonus is that we get to go out for dinner twice. 6) Even though dates and ages are relatively unimportant to me, and I have spent my life telling people that age is just a number and forgetting how old I am, I can not forget this year. I'm turning 30, and it bothers me more than I can say. (I suppose Conventional Charity is coming out for air). Now, are you thinking to yourself, “I mean, like, who does that?” Quirky is as quirky does, I guess!

Ooooh, Ahhhh

2006-12-21T11:27:00.000-08:00

Along with all the regular packages and parcels winging their way around at this time of year, have been some wonderful treasures on their way to me. I feel very fortunate and blessed to have people in my life that spoil me and do things to make me feel special. In fact, I was so inundated with lovely gifts, I told Stuart he didn't even have to give me my Before-Christmas present this year. (Yes, this is a real thing. He usually gives me a little present, about a week before Christmas. I'm such a little kid, I can't possibly keep waiting for presents, and this helps with some of the agony. Last year, it was a lovely set of blue and white floral china mugs, which I drink my tea out of every day.) The first parcel to arrive was from my Comfort Swap pal. She is a lovely sounding lady, originally from Canada, but now in Arizona, named Christine (sadly, blogless). I was gifted with some wonderful white hot chocolate, some apricot spread (which is not in the picture because I've been eating away at it, mmmm), some truly luscious truffles, and best of all, yarn! The alpaca sent is so soft and warm, and it's hanging out displayed on my fireplace mantle along with the nativity and candles, while I poke around for the exact right project for it. Thank you, Christine, it was great. Tuesday night, I came home from a long, long night at work, and was cheered to find this. A package from my Sockret pal. Moss, as I have come to call her, has really been the most wonderful swap pal to have, and has been an inspiration to me in my own dealings with swaps and sendees. She has kept in regular contact with me, and has really gone out of her way to treat me well. It is great having someone around who is regularly concerned about you, and “up” on what's going on in my world (even though it's occasionally unnerving to realize I am talking to a complete stranger). Moss sent a few sock-ey goodies, like a Sock Blocker keychain set, and this great little notebook, Knit Notes for Socks. Perhaps it will get even me organized! Moss also included some yarn, and it is so lovely I can't say. I have no idea yet what it is, but the colours are beautiful! When I first opened it up, I saw the turquoise, and was happy, of course. But upon further examination, I was charmed by the deeper colours – greens, purples, some blue and brown. It's wonderful, and I'm having a hard time focusing on the darn ends of The Pirate Sweater, when I just want to wind this up and cast on! The final thing to arrive was a Sample package, also courtesy of Moss. I'm going to save it for another day, though, because it was extra special for me, and I want to tell you all about it. Needless to say, even more Christmassy fun!

The Sweater, It Is Finished

2006-12-20T14:02:00.000-08:00

But are the ends woven in yet? No. The ends, oh the ends. Groan. We're doing good, though, the seaming is finished, it's only Wednesday, and it's my last knitting group night before the holidays, so I will have 2 uninterrupted, Brian free hours to work on them. So it's okay. My Knitpicks order, with the extra yarn for Stuart's sweater, arrived today, which is very nice timing. I'm getting antsy to get started on it, and now I can! In the meantime, I've begun one of Ruth's string bags, which is knitting up nicely. (And the pattern is great, Ruth, very easy to understand.) I also have the yarn and pattern for my Sockret Pal socks, and those are the next socks to go on the needles. A new year to come, new projects galore! How thrilling.

Here I Am!

2006-12-16T12:00:00.000-08:00

I haven't dropped off the face of the earth! I've been felled by a nasty stomach flu, and have spent the past week hobbling around, trying to keep food down and not pass out. I seem to be on the mend, though, and actually ate dinner last night. I don't recommend the illness, but it is a great just-before-Christmas diet plan. All through the knitting community I've been seeing different fingerless gloves, and they seem to have become really popular. I've jumped on the bandwagon, too, for the sheer practicality of them. They're great – my fingers are free to buckle carseats, find change, fiddle with keys, but my palms are warm, even when holding a cold steering wheel, or an icy shifter. Since I enjoy them so much, naturally I must make them for others! Here is my work so far: Fingerless Mitts, from Weekend Knitting. I used Elann's Alpaca/Wool aran weight, in a heathered dark blue. As I mentioned before, these are intended for one of Brian's teachers. These are modeled by Katie, and just look what she's holding! This was a gift from the very first swap I was a part of, a stitch marker exchange. I think he's soooo cute.

The Famous Fetching, in Elann's Peruvian Highland Wool, light blue. I went down to a 3.5mm needle for these, and used the modifications found here. I've cast on for this same pattern again, for Katie, using the DK superwash she picked out. I'm hoping the change in weight will make them just the right size for her. Have no fear, though, The Pirate Sweater has not been abandoned! I've finished, finished, finished the intarsia, and the whole front, too. Now I just have to knit the neckband, and weave in all the ends. Just, I say. Ha, ha, ha. You know how many ends there are, right? I'd better get busy – we've only got 9 days left! (You can throw something at me if you like, but I'm too far away to hit!)

Deck the Halls... Check

2006-12-09T10:54:00.000-08:00

Following Alisha's lead, and joining in her contest, here are our Christmas decorations. We do a Christmas village, as well, but that will have to wait until later this week, as will the baking, stocking hanging, and other fun stuff.

When Stuart & I first got together, we started a collection of Christmas ornaments. Neither of us really had anything to speak of, and so we chose beautiful blue and gold themed decorations, for a beautiful tree. Ah, foolish young couple! The last few years (read, since Busy Boy Brian arrived), we have begun the "Natural Tree", using handmade or natural element ornaments, plus any special memory ornaments. Each year, I do a different ornament craft with the kids, and in this way we build our collection. All the beautiful (and very breakable) stuff is safely tucked away for use at a later date - when I know no small child will attempt to eat a shiny ball, or blown glass snowman. This tree has it's own special beauty to me, though, and I begin to wonder if I'll ever want to go back to the old tree. What memories we are making!

Here is a photo of my fireplace mantle. I purchased this nativity the year Katie was born, and love it dearly. You may have seen tree ornaments that look similar to this - it's a gold wire frame, with a shell insert. One of my favourite parts of decorating is setting up the nativity, and telling the Christmas Story to my children while we do so. The love of God, and His truly amazing gift to us, never really struck home for me until I had my own family, and saw how much I love my children. I have so much to be thankful for.

The Eyes Have It

2006-12-08T13:18:00.000-08:00

Just so you know that I'm not all talk and no action (just some talk and a bit of action), here is a progress shot of The Pirate Sweater. It's been so tricky getting time to sit down and work on it when Brian's not around, especially since I've been working a lot, and am gone most evenings. Last night, though, I had a night off, and sat for an hour or two, determined to get past the eyes. I'm sure I would have made even more progress if I hadn't felt the need to stop every row or two, to show Stuart (who was infuriatingly polite about it, but not nearly enthusiastic enough), and feel clever. I definitely don't think intarsia is for me. I love the finished look, but the fiddly-ness of the whole thing drives me bananas! As much as I know Brian will love this, I'll be glad to see the back of it. But, I'm almost there! I've also been knitting up a pair of Fetching, for when I have a chance to knit, but Brian's around to see. They're a final Christmas gift, and I'm almost to the thumb on the second one. My mind and heart have started to turn to what's next on my list, a ruddy giant Heirloom Aran Pullover, for my wonderful Stuart. He's always longed for one, and since his mum knits, he once asked her for one. She bought him one instead, and he was so disappointed. How I wish his heart's desire was a nice pair of socks, or a beautiful scarf! But no, a giant aran sweater it is, and he's picked out the pattern and the yarn. I sit here with 19 balls of natural coloured wool in front of me, and I'm excited to get started. You know how swiftly this excitement will wane, so I'm enjoying it while it lasts. And he really does deserve it!

The Hazards of Living "Up North"

2006-12-06T12:43:00.000-08:00

Monthly truck payment: Too much to think about right now. Fuel: An obscene amount. Winter tires: Groan. Not getting stuck fast like the 6 cars with all-season tires that I saw at the kids' school: Priceless. Hear me now – I will never (well, I'll try really hard not to) complain about the crazy costs of owning and operating our 4-wheel-drive vehicle again! Today, it was all worthwhile. See, look for yourself: It's even worse than this, actually. I took this photo the other day, before the 17cm of snow we've had since yesterday. To make matters worse, it's now +3 C, and raining. Yikes. I think I'm going to stay home and knit. Another pair of socks, perhaps? By the way, thanks to all who asked about the kiddies' health – they're all back to normal, and dying to get out into this wet snow to build snow men, snow forts, and I'm pretty sure I heard a snow throne mentioned, too. Stuart has been felled with the nasty bug, now, but seems to be coping much better than the little ones did. Let's hope I manage to avoid the whole thing!

Another Sock Convert

2006-12-05T10:55:00.000-08:00

I have heard much, over the last year, of the comfort of hand knitted socks. How, once you wear them, you will never ever want to go back to wearing boring old stretchy cotton socks from Wal-Mart. Being a somewhat skeptical type, I imagined this was a tad of an exaggeration. I was wrong. Oh, how wrong I was! These socks are so comfortable, so soft, so warm, that I now understand why I have to pry Brian's socks off his little feet to wash them. What am I going to do now? I only have one pair!

Pattern: International Sock of Doom Yarn: Lorna's Laces Swirl DK, 2 skeins (with a fair bit left over), Douglas Fir colourway Needles: 3.5mm bamboo DPNs Thoughts: I made no alterations to this pattern, but followed it to the letter. Since I had a fair bit of yarn leftover, I am a bit sad that I didn't make them longer in the leg. This, I suppose, is the beauty of the toe up sock, which I plan to try in the near future. It was a fun, easy to understand pattern, and making socks of DK yarn goes super fast. I typically do not like to knit the same thing over, unless I'm doing a matchy thing, but I may try this pattern again.

Finally, thank you to all who joined in my little blog contest. It was fun for me. I used the online Random Number Generator to choose the winner... and the winner is Jennifer! Jennifer, please email me your snail mail, so I can get an exciting prize off to you!

Eleventyone

2006-12-01T10:45:00.000-08:00

With all the craziness going on here the last few weeks, my 100th blog post came and went without being marked. This, then, is my own celebration – 111 posts today! And even more fitting, it is December 1st, how nice is that. In honour of my Eleventyfirst, I am having a contest. The prize will be some yarny goodness from my stash, selected for the lucky winner, once I know who the lucky winner is. I've spent the last few days thinking about what kind of contest I could have; I tend to be a slavish pattern follower, and not so full of the exciting ideas myself. This morning, though, the lightbulb flashed on. My name is Charity. My parents had very meaningful reasons for calling me this (I'll save the story for another time), but the fact is that going through life with a name like Charity inevitably opens you up to a certain... reaction to my name. Working with the public, very seldom do I have a day when I don't hear at least one bad joke about my name, and on days when I'm feeling particularly punchy, I've been know to pull out a few myself. You know, “Oh, how funny, I'm giving my money to Charity!”. “Ha, ha,” I reply, “I've never heard that before!” So this is my contest. Leave me a comment on this post, with your best My Name is Charity Joke. The contest will be open until Monday, December 5th, 6:00pm MST, and the winner will be chosen at random. Come on, guys, do your worst! We have an awful lot of clever, fascinating bloggers out there - I dare you to come up with something original! While you have your thinking cap on, think of me with warm thoughts. I have a houseful of sick babies, and it is so hard to do anything when a little one is following you around saying, “Up, please!”.

Eating my Words

2006-11-29T14:22:00.000-08:00

You knew, of course, when you read, “I'm going to try not to buy yarn” that you would be seeing a picture like this shortly! Although, in my defense, I'm pretty sure I placed this order just before I made the foolish, asking-for-it statement. Let's just get it over with: There. Are you happy now? I couldn't resist, though, you know how it is when there's a sale, and this wool/cotton Salishan was just calling to me! I'm hoping to make the Rusted Root pattern, since the purple cotton from Wal-Mart was just too much for my hands. (Not bad yarn, I still maintain, but tough and sturdy.) Since I was ordering anyway, I got an extra ball of Wool of the Andes for Stuart's giant Aran sweater (which I have committed to starting as soon as Brian's sweater is finished), just to be safe. After it arrived I took another measurement of Stuart, and the poor old guy has “grown”, which means I'm going to need even more yarn! Sigh. Why don't I do these things ahead of time? The answer is that I subconsciously want to make another order, of course! I picked up enough of the Dancing for two pairs of socks. I really like the way the samples in the Knit Picks catalogue look, and I like the idea of cotton/elastic blend sock yarn, especially for the summer. I'm thinking I could get ankle socks for both Katie and myself if I plan it just right. There is also two hanks of Gloss, since I was taken in by the wool/silk blend, it looked so soft and pretty. This is the first ever solid colour sock yarn I've ever bought, and I would like to try something different for these ones. That is, if I use it for socks. You just never know. You also see two pairs of small circular needles. I've been wanting to try knitting socks on two circulars, and Jen was kind enough to snail mail me directions, so I can give it a try. Got to love a new challenge! I must say, it's a good thing I've finally buckled down and got to work on Brian's sweater – I'm having a heck of a time with the secretive knitting thing. That kid is always around, and he's sharp, too. Some people, you can knit right in front of and they have no clue whatsoever. Not this boy! Between his awake hours, and my work schedule, it's going to be a Christmas Miracle to have that under the tree!

Winter Rainbows and Other Miraculous Events

2006-11-28T12:46:00.000-08:00

I was driving home after dropping off the kids at school this morning, feeling miserable because it is -32 degrees C outside (that's -25 degrees F) and wishing I didn't have to leave the house. I looked up, and saw a rainbow in the sky! Rainbows have always been very significant and special to me, and I was pleased and touched to see this one. I have never seen a rainbow in the winter before, and while there is probably some scientific explanation for what I saw, I am choosing to enjoy the miraculous moment in my day. It brought to mind a song we used to sing when I was a child; it went, “When I see a rainbow, I know that God is Love”, and was set to the music from the Friendly Giant. (Does anyone out there remember that show?) Definitely a reminder I needed to focus my attention on today. Another miraculous event occurred in my home this weekend. I started The Skull on The Pirate Sweater! I was basically shamed into it by all the wonderful work fellow knitters have been doing. If you can manage this beautiful stuff, I'm sure I can knit a darned skull, right? If you look closely, you will see the bottom cross bones on either side, with the chin and the very start of the smile in the middle. It is very fiddly and slow going, though I think it will be worth it once it's all done. And since Brian seems to be the most appreciative member of my family when it comes to my knitting, I feel good about knitting him something that will make him so happy.

Snowbound

2006-11-23T13:03:00.000-08:00

Snow is still falling, temperatures are dropping alarmingly, and there is just no good reason to leave the house that I can see. Other than my obligatory treks back and forth to the kids' school (and I seriously considered keeping Brian home today, so I wouldn't have to drive back over there at lunchtime to pick him up), I'm not going anywhere, which means I hope to get lots done here. I wandered over to Tammy's this morning, and took the “What Season are You?” quiz. Apparently, I'm a Winter, which is very fitting, especially on a day like this. I've always loved a good snowfall; in recent years we have had far less snow than what was considered usual, so I'm glad to see this. I remember as a child, growing up on the Prairies, being completely snowed in, and watching my dad crawl through the upstairs window, to get out and start shovelling out our front door. When I moved up here, someone showed me a cut mark way up in a tree, it must have been at least 8 feet off the ground. I was told that this was the snow line from last winter. No matter how much you love snow, that is simply too much of the stuff, so let's hope we're not getting a throwback year, here. The Weather Network is calling for another 10cm today, which is a lot of snow, no matter how you look at it. The only really bad part, as far as I'm concerned, is the accompanying temperatures. We're headed well below -20 C tonight, and it looks like it's going to hang around, at least through the weekend. Yuck. I made it to my knitting group last night, and finished up the neck kerchief for Brian's teacher. I can not believe how stretchy the sewn cast off is! Quite remarkable – do keep it in mind if you ever need a super stretchy finished edge. I also did a little more on the fingerless gloves, and hope to have them done tomorrow, so I can block them both and tuck them away. The kerchief is a basic pattern from Last-Minute Knitted Gifts, knit from one 50g skein of Elann's Pure Alpaca in Garnet. I love how drapey and soft and warm the finished fabric is – I can so see this yarn for a shawl or wrap of some sort.

Tea Time

2006-11-22T17:22:00.000-08:00

It started to snow yesterday, and I was so pleased to see it. We were told to expect 1-3cm, which would be lovely, just enough to cover all the grey and brown out there, and make it seem a bit more Christmassey. There is now at least 10cm out there, and it's still coming down. Talk about a winter wonderland! I'm using this snowy time to stay home, and knit whenever I have the chance. I finished the first of Brian's teacher's fingerless mitts, and am almost halfway through the second. I meet my group of knitting ladies tonight, and plan to take the kerchief with the too tight bind off along with, so I can re-do that. Progress, progress! I was over visiting Cornflower this morning, and she had a lovely photo of all her tea. I am following her along, taking this opportunity for a few good things: a nice cup of tea in my nice china mug, a clean tea cupboard, and a picture to share with you.

On an average day, I drink two kinds of tea. I start the day with Tetley Chai tea, which is caffeinated, at least one cup. On the days that I have to work late, I usually have a second cup in the early afternoon, just to keep me going. The rest of the time I drink boring old Tetley Decaf. When we're out and about, doing errands and such, we'll often stop for a cup of coffee for Stuart. I almost never buy anything for myself, since I'd rather just come home and have a nice cup of boring old decaf tea. The rest of the stuff here I save for evenings (the Celestial Seasonings and Decaf Chai teas), or to share with friends (all my favourites, Vanilla Chai, Sour Japanese Cherry, a Decaf House blend from a tea room in Winnipeg).

The cyclamen (if that's what it is – my gardening expertise is far surpassed by my enthusiasm) is in the picture to remind me to share a Cute Brian story. Brian and his dad were doing some grocery shopping the other day, and when Brian saw the flowers on display there he said to his dad, “We should get Mum some flowers. Are those roses? I'm going to call those roses. Let's buy those for Mum.” And so there, on my dining table, are my lovely pink “roses”, from my lovely, thoughtful son.

Now, for you tea drinkers out there, go make yourself a nice cuppa. And if you're not a tea drinker, why not? ~Smile~

Restless Knitting

2006-11-21T11:10:00.000-08:00

I have been extremely remiss in reporting on my mother-in-law, Mary's, condition. This is especially bad, since I've told you all she's in intensive care, and then left you hanging. So sorry! The good news is, Mary made a great turn around this weekend, and has just returned home. Hooray! Thank you again for your prayers and support, they are still so appreciated. During my reads through the blogosphere, I've noticed many others commenting on the restless feeling they have, keeping them from settling into a good project. That restlessness is still here, too, resulting in several Works In Progress. Here is the Hat and Scarf for my step-father. It is all done, all that remains is some weaving in of ends, which I really need to sit down and finish tonight. My goal is to have all the out-of-town packages ready to mail by the end of November, to avoid the rush at the post office, and to bring joy to my family by not making them stand in line for ages.

Next up is a little neck kerchief, pattern from Last Minute Knitted Gifts. I knit this up this weekend, when I realized that Brian has two teachers who will also need a token of appreciation. Brian and I dug around together through my pattern books and stash, and he chose this for one of his teachers, knit from Elann Alpaca in a heathered red. It's finished, but I'm not happy with the bind off row. It's much less stretchy and soft than the rest of the scarf, so I want to rip it back, and try the EZ sewn cast off, which I've heard is very elastic.

Brian decided his other teacher would love some fingerless mitts, pattern from Weekend Knitting. He chose some dark blue yarn, also from Elann. It's the wool/alpaca blend they have, and I just started them last night while watching TV.

The Socks of Doom have been temporarily abandoned – I'm still loving them, but have been hard pressed to sit down and finish them. I'm on sock #2, and have turned the heel and finished the gusset, so all I need to do is the foot. (Blogger is completely exhausted by these photos, so you'll just have to imagine the socks in progress.)

I have abandoned Katie's hat completely, so no picture for you today. The one I was working on will be entirely too small, and needs to be frogged and re-knit. I've put it aside until all these other little things have been finished up. Just think of the wonderful Finished Objects I'll have to show off soon!

Sweet Slumber

2006-11-18T11:33:00.000-08:00

I have just survived the most interesting, and possibly harrowing experience I've had in a long time – the Dreaded Slumber Party. Katie turned 9 last week, and for her birthday she asked for a sleepover. I was (not) sorry to hear that 2 of her little friends were not able to make it – our numbers were a modest 5 girls to 1 mum. Oh, my! It was wonderful to watch Katie surrounded by her friends – you get a totally different view of your child when you watch them like that. I was pleased to see her behave kindly, and shepherd everyone around within the rules of our home. I will admit that a roomful of girls is not my favourite place to be (in fact, a roomful of any people is not my best place, I much prefer smaller numbers). Nine is such a tricky age, they are so mature in some ways, and still such little ones in others. We watched movies, ate pizza and junk food, and in lieu of a cake, had an Ice Cream Buffet. This included several kinds of ice cream, syrups, whipped cream, sliced fruit, tiny marshmallows, chocolate chips, chopped nuts, and every kind of sprinkle I had in the house. They had a blast, and it was nice to do something instead of the same old birthday cake. The last child has just left, and we're all feeling a little wonky on about 5 hours of sleep. The bonus in all that time is that I did a fair bit of knitting, and good thing! A few times, I felt the need to bite my tongue and just keep knitting! The peace would descend, the moment would pass, and all was right in the world again. Now that my home has returned to it's usual calm state, I'm off to have a nap!

The Order of the Stash

2006-11-14T11:00:00.000-08:00

Being a natural organizer, putting my stash into some order, and keeping it that way, should be a piece of cake. Sadly, this is not the case. The other day, while I was a work, Stuart got sick of my piles of yarn all over the living room, and “helped me”. He ran up to Home Depot, bought a couple of totes, and packed the whole mess up. (Feel free to shudder now. It was pretty awful.) Now I'm sitting facing all that I love thrown unceremoniously into boxes, and whenever I need something, like my Denise needles, I have to rummage around until I find it, or am willing to do without. Obviously, something needs to be done. This past summer, I got very organized, and inventoried my yarn, listing it in weight categories. I haven't kept up with it, though, and am not sure if it could be salvaged, now. A clean slate is always best, anyway, in my world. So, what to do? Stop buying yarn, for one thing! I know saying this out loud is tempting fate, so I'm not going to make it an absolute statement, but I really am going to try not to buy any more yarn for the next while. I have a fair bit of stash as it is, and so many projects waiting in the wings it's ridiculous. Next, hide all the boxes and totes for the meantime. We're STILL working on the common area in our house (kitchen/dining room/living room), and until that's all done and the carpets have been cleaned, there's no point dragging out another mess, is there? Here's my plan: sort all the stash (ALL of it, every last skein and ball) by weight, make some kind of listing of it all, and then store in an easily accessible place. This place must not be in the basement, but must be out of Stuart's way, to avoid any further “help”, like storing my stash in the shed, or dropping it all off at the local swap shed. What do you all do? This is not a new question, by far, Kristy asked it herself not long ago. Can you see any big holes in my plan? Am I deluding myself? Is it an excellent idea, and you think I'm so very clever you can't believe it? MIL Note: Mary seems to be stable now. They've moved her out of intensive care, and last night, she recognized her daughter, which all sounds wonderful. Thank you for your prayers and encouragement, I so appreciate it. Please continue as you feel able.

Become the Change

2006-11-11T12:21:00.000-08:00

My family is a Canadian Military Family. My mum, one of 12, grew up on the Shiloh, Manitoba base, where she met my dad, a young soldier in the artillery. Although Dad “got out” around the time I was born, my life was filled with sayings like, “Shoulders back, Chest out, Stomach in!” when I was slouching. At my grandparents' home, if you slammed the door, you were subjected to “Door Drill”, opening and closing the door quietly until Grandpa was sufficiently convinced we had learned our lesson. My grandparents were a happy young couple before the war. I've seen photographs of them at that time, younger than I am now, and know they were in love and full of joy. Many, many Canadian soldiers did not return after the war, but my grandfather did. He was not the joyful boy, however, who went away. Even during my childhood, War was a subject not to be mentioned. If we had questions, we were free to find our answers somewhere else, but we kept quiet about it. Grandpa came home an angry, closed off person, who buried himself in a bottle whenever possible, and took it out on everyone around him when it wasn't. It was only in his final years, as he was dying, that some of the old Floyd Turner returned, the laughing, happy boy from so long ago. In retrospect, it must have been difficult for my own mother to see. The man who would take a strap, belt, or any other available object to her for walking in front of the TV, became the man who taught his grandchildren funny songs, spent hours painting, and laughed often. As an innocent child, this was the only Grandpa I knew, and it was much later before I could see how much damage this horrible thing had done. Not just to him; yes, war stole the man my grandfather was to become, but it also stole the father my own mum deserved, and the husband my long suffering and loyal grandmother was meant to spend her life with. The devastating effects of the wars previous to now are still being felt by families everywhere, and yet we do not learn our lesson. Again, soldiers are not coming home, war brides are arriving on the East Coast, families are being built and ripped apart. We take one day a year to remember the sacrifice of all those before us, who have fought and died to provide us with the incredible life we now have. Why can we not remember them every day, and use that knowledge to change? I heard a quote this morning, “You must become the change you want to see in the world. (Ghandi)” What can we do to change ourselves, both to change the world we live in now, and honour the changes so fiercely purchased before us?

Updates All Round

2006-11-10T10:06:00.000-08:00

The knitting night went well, although no pictures were taken. (Patricia is a shy lady.) She caught on really quickly, and cast on, as well as knit and purled. She's making a basic slipper pattern, and I'm a little concerned that they will be too small for her, but I didn't want to shake her confidence by saying anything. I made sure we got to a point where the pattern called for 6 inches of 2x2 ribbing, so she could work away on it until we can get together again. It is a lot of fun to teach something a new skill, especially one so interesting and meaningful to me! My Spinning Roving Swap package arrived yesterday – what fun! It included a top-whorl wooden spindle, some silk hankies, some very beautiful roving (from Lisa Souza, no less), plus lovely stitch markers, and delicious chocolate! Thanks so much, Julie this was a fun swap, and I love what you sent me! I'm feeling all over the place with my knitting, restless, and unable to settle down on any one project. I feel peace when I'm actually knitting, but getting to that place is taking work. I finished my first Sock of Doom and started the second (with a beautiful cake of yarn fresh off the ball winder!), did a little more work on Katie's hat, knit a few rows on a Christmas scarf, but nothing substantial. No update, really, on Mary. She's still in intensive care, but stable as far as I know. I'm relying on 3rd hand information, but from what I understand, they're not giving her antibiotics at this point. I don't totally understand the reason, but maybe someone can enlighten me. We've put together a little care package for her, you know, magazines, Yardley stuff, photographs, artwork by the kids, etc. I hope by the time it arrives, she will be out of the ICU, and able to enjoy it.

Thanks!

2006-11-08T14:01:00.000-08:00

First of all, let me thank all of you for your prayers, good thoughts, comments and emails. I am so thankful for your support. It's always frightening when someone you love is ill, and it's so much worse when they are far away. My mother-in-law, Mary, had knee replacement surgery about a month ago, and seemed to go downhill quickly after that. She has lost over 30lbs, and when speaking to her, you can just tell she's not herself. It was thought that there was something going on with her thyroid, and admitted her to the tiny hospital on St. Joseph Island (where they live) on Sunday, for observation and to get some nourishment into her. She was transferred to Sault Ste. Marie hospital, and placed in intensive care there Monday morning. After further testing, it looks like she has some type of staph infection, and they are treating her. Last night, we were told she seems a bit perkier, but I haven't had an update today. We're hopeful that all will be well. Please, if you have been praying, continue to do so. Yesterday was also my wedding anniversary, and Stuart gave me the most lovely gift – a ball winder and wooden swift! It's wonderful, and I'm having all kinds of fun getting the kids to help me wind up my skeins and skeins of wool. It's a great tool to have anyway, but right now it's serving as a wonderful distraction as well, and that's so helpful. Yay, Stuart! I had to work last night, but we're planning a special date night in a few weeks. Our local symphony is performing Handel's Messiah, and we've got tickets. I'm very excited – my Mum, years ago, sang in the Hallelujah Chorus, and I can't wait to be able to sit, uninterrupted, and enjoy the whole shebang. Tonight, I have the extreme honour of teaching a co-worker to knit (or at least attempting to do so). We met during orientation a few months ago, and she's been fascinated by my knitting. She is determined to knit slippers, so I've printed off a couple of basic patterns, and we're going to meet tonight to have a go at this. If she's not too camera shy, I'll see if I can snap some pictures. Wish me luck!

KMKS

2006-11-07T17:10:00.000-08:00

Sorry, KMKS pal, to be so long in posting my questionnaire. For all of you who know me, please think good thoughts for my Mother-in-law, she's in intensive care in Sault Ste. Marie right now. We don't have a lot of information, and are pretty worried.

The Questionnaire:

Are you allergic to any fibers? Nope What are your favorite colors? Turquoise, teal, blue, green, any oceany colours. Are you a new mitt knitter? How long have you been knitting mittens? I've only recently made my first mittens – I've made a flap-top pair, plus a couple pairs of fingerless gloves. Do you prefer solid or multicolored yarn? I like mulitcoloured and heathered yarns. What fibers do you prefer in mitten yarn? For up here, it should be something warm, and natural. Where do you usually knit mittens? Most of my knitting is done at home, but a bit is done on the road, while at work, or waiting to pick up or drop off kids. How do you usually carry/store small projects? I often just grab and go, without anything to carry a project in. I have a clear plastic tote that I use to carry my wallet and a small project. I would love a bigger bag, that would hold my wallet, project and lunch bag, too. What are your favorite mitten patterns? I am partial to the fingerless glove patterns, especially Fetching. What are your favorite mitten knitting techniques? I'm new to cabling, and quite like the effect, and love lace stitch patterns. What new techniques would you like to try? I'm longing to try thrummed mittens, that's my next technique on the list. What are your favorite needles for knitting mittens? I usually use DPN's What are some of your favorite yarns? I love soft, natural fibres. I just bought a ball of Debbie Bliss Cashmerino for Fetching, and it's soooo soft. What yarn do you totally covet? Any of the “fancy” handpainted yarns, I can't really get up here. Socks that Rock, Cherry Tree Hill, all that good stuff. Any pattern you would love to make if money and time were no object? I would make myself a beautiful sweater, maybe out of cashmere, or a quiviut blend, or something exotic like that. Favorite kind of needles (brand, materials, straights or circs, etc)? I've recently bought a few pairs of bamboo needles, and really like they way they feel in my hands. I would love to try some of the nice wooden needles out there. If you were a specific kind of yarn, which brand and kind of yarn would you be? Hmmm, something much-loved, practical, but still attractive.... What would that be? Mission Falls Wool? Cascade 220 Superwash? I would definitely be superwash. Do you have a favorite candy or mail-able snack? Chocolate. Yep. What’s your favorite animal? I like animals, but don't know if I have a favourite. Would you prefer super warm mittens or something more like fingerless mitts? I like them both, for different times of the year. Fingerless mitts are practical, so I can buckle car seats and such. The thrummed mittens look so warm, which is great up here, especially come January-March. If you were a color what color would you be? Something peaceful. What is your most inspiring image, flower, or object in nature? The ocean. Or a wheat field. Do you have a wishlist? I have a Chapters wishlist, under my email address.

Relief

2006-11-06T10:03:00.000-08:00

Proverbs 13:12, “Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life.” (NIV) Aha! Just what I needed – Biblical justification for working on my Socks of Doom rather than Christmas gifts or Katie's hat! Ha, ha, ha! (I'm not saying I needed this justification, but it does make me happy to see it!) Relief from guilt is setting in now, and I can just enjoy the knitting. I started the Socks of Doom on the 1st, and am so enjoying the feel of the yarn, and the texture of the fabric that is knitting up. I started following the pattern using the called for 3.75mm needles, realized that they would be a tad big, and then ripped back to knit on 3.5mm needles, instead. I bought myself some lovely bamboo DPN's and am feeling so luxurious using my fancy needles with my fancy yarn. If you haven't seen this pattern, it's a very simple ribbed sock. I'm loving the flow of the stitch pattern – I don't need to have my pattern in front of me, so it's great to carry around with me. I know I'm a little new to the sock knitting thing, but it hadn't really occurred to me to knit socks with DK yarn. It's sure great for some instant gratification, though! My camera disappeared the other day, and was found in Brian's room. A future blogger in the works! On the memory card were no less than 75 pictures that he took – here's my favourite. A Self-Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man:

I'm a Calendar Girl, Too!

2006-11-03T12:35:00.000-08:00

So I was doing my regular blog crawl, and visited here to learn about this. Being such a joiner these days, I dropped everything to take a couple of photos of my calendars here. Part of what pleased me so much about this "contest" is that as a child, the first thing my mum, sister & I would do when we received a calendar, date book, daily devotional, whatever, was look up our birthdays to see what it had for us. Hearing about this brought me such a happy memory, I thought I would play along. Plus, I am constantly fascinated by the way things spread around in this online world, and thought I'd better do my part. So there you are, two calendars, and you can see the theme in my house. We're big ocean people around here, and since we can't see it, hear it, or smell it where we live, we surround ourselves with all kinds of paraphernalia whenever we have the chance. OKC: I'm making progress on the Socks of Doom, and have found a lovely pattern for Katie's fingerless gloves. I'm going to use a pattern from Last Minute Knitted Gifts, since there's a spiral rib pattern in there, and the hat I'm making also has a spiral rib. How cute is that? I went through some drama, imagining that the hat will be too small, but put it on a string and sat it on Kate's head, and am now hoping for the best. I suppose it's not a great investment of time anyway, if I do need to rip it back. Still, time spent is time spent, and I do hate waste. And what's that you say? Pirate Sweater? What Pirate Sweater? I have no idea what you're talking about.

Chibi Happy

2006-11-02T13:45:00.000-08:00

Look what came in the mail today! I must say, being part of the Sockret Pal exchange is a lot of fun, and while there are many knitters out there who are sure they have the best pal, I am so pleased and grateful for mine. She has been wonderful about keeping in touch, thoughtful about the socks she is making me (Moss, I haven't forgotten about the measurements, they are coming, really, they are), and now this wonderful parcel has arrived! She sent the most lovely, soft yarn, some delicious truffles (which I'm hiding in my room for emergency purposes), and some great little novelties. Terribly cute sock-shaped needle point protectors (how cute is that?), and some lighthouse buttons (they're already being competed for by my family). Some luscious smelling Goat's Milk soap, all packed into a snazzy little bag, just perfect for carrying around with me, so I stop trailing yarn when I run back and forth to the truck. I hate carrying a purse, and this bag is just right for both my knitting in progress, and my wallet. But yes, you see it don't you, the most exciting part of the whole thing? I admit it, I really am this geeky, and it really is this easy to please me, but look! Look! Look! A little green Chibi! To make the Chibi-goodness even more lovely, I recently moved my knitting gadgets into the orange zippered bag Craftylilly sent me, and I had nothing to put my needles in. Moss, your timing couldn't have been more perfect. Thank you so much, I really appreciate your time and thoughtfulness. And, I still don't know your secret identity – I had Katie open up the package for me, and then very quickly take the box to the bin, before my self-control gave out. Otherwise, you know I would have looked. Note: Alisha is having a fun contest, which closes on Saturday, November 5th. If you like guessing games, check it out!

One Sock, Two Sock

2006-11-02T12:15:00.000-08:00

Here are Gwen's little socks: they are made from some leftover Regia colour #5048, using this pattern. It was fast and easy, and the stripes are like a rainbow, which pleases me immensely. (I still sort my Smarties and eat them in order of the colours of the rainbow.) A while back, a friend brought a neighbor lady and the neighbor lady's mother (maybe in-law, I can't remember) to our knitting group. The Mother(In-Law?) was a big sock knitter, and very happy to see me knitting away on those other baby socks I made for Gwen. She was here only for a family visit, but before she returned home, she gave me this: It was very exciting for me, and I have all kinds of plans for these bits of sock yarn. Each colour is enough to make a pair of regular socks for Gwenyth, or short socks for Brian, or something else, like an amulet bag or an Ipod cozy. Very cool, and amazing to me what we can do with "scraps". I love economy and frugality, and it makes me very happy to put to use something someone else had no use for. At the complete other end of the scale, now that I'm finished these babies, I'm legal to start my Socks of Doom socks with the Lorna's Laces Swirl. I'm making these, even though it is almost Christmas and I still have Christmas knitting to do, and for myself, even though I should be doing something for someone else at this time of year, and feel a bit guilty. I'm going to push past the guilty feelings, though, because the yarn is just so darn nice, and the socks are going to be squishy.

Happy Samhain!*

2006-10-31T10:23:00.000-08:00

I missed out on the great pumpkin carving this year, since I was at work. Stuart got the kids on it yesterday after school, although I'm pretty sure he did the cutting. I came home to this friendly fellow glowing on my table, and roasted pumpkin seeds to snack on. It's quite cold today, and I'm thinking we'll skip the door to door trick or treating (except for perhaps a few neighbors), and just attend an event held at a local church. Warmer and safer. You know me so well, you must know what's coming next, right? A new swap! I was pleased to find this one, since it's set up to send your packages in January, and I had told myself no more swaps this year. So, I'm still legal, right? If you've heard of the KSKS, this is similar: The Knit Mitt Kit Swap! I'm a bit intimidate by the idea of making a bag for my pal, but it sounds like a fun challenge, and I'm loving these swaps! I have a really hard time making things for myself, and this deals with that nicely! I can focus on someone else, and get to feel extra special that someone is focusing on me. If it sounds fun to you, signups are open until Friday. *Note: Thanks to Jo, I am referring to Halloween as Samhain, if I've used the term incorrectly, I'm sorry! :0)

More Black

2006-10-28T09:51:00.000-07:00

Progress is being made on the Black Hat, although I've switched over to Gwen's little socks in the last day or so. I've become overwhelmed by the urge to knit myself a pair of Socks of Doom out of the Lorna's Laces Swirl I purchased a while ago, and can not allow myself more than one pair on the needles at a time. So socks it's been, and socks it will remain. More on the hat: I have nothing against black as a colour (or non-colour, or all-colours, I've never really had that clarified to my liking). I actually wear it myself quite a bit (which makes it seem strange to me that Katie would deign to put the same thing on her body), it's just knitting it that I don't care for. It's very dark, and hard to see at times, and if I'm going to be staring at soft, lovely yarn, I would much rather it be something pretty. I really am a girly kind of girl. Katie is a tough cookie, so you're probably right, the black will make her feel and look like she should not be messed with (which she shouldn't – I saw her at Hapkido this week, she took this kid down and did a “controlled” pin and elbow smash to the face, Yikes! I would seriously not want to get on her bad side). And, you're also right, black is universal, and she'll likely wear it until she outgrows it. So it's all good. But still. I can't get away from the feeling that my “baby girl” should be in a nice blue, or perhaps a cherry red. But the yarn is soft, and feels nice in my hands, and is just super good. So I'll get past it. One more thing – the pattern she chose is for a beret and mittens, but now she tells me that she would prefer fingerless gloves. Any suggestions on modifying the existing pattern? A band of ribbing, or a rolled stocking stitch knit with a smaller needle? What do you think?

BLACK

2006-10-25T16:28:00.000-07:00

Having completed Brian's scarf, the Law of Fairness set in, and Katie started thinking it might be nice to have something knitted for her, too. The tricky bit about this is that over the summer Kate has morphed into The Preteen. This is completely ridiculous in my view, since she's turning 9 years old in a matter of days, but Preteen-ness has definitely set in, regardless of my opinion. Not only did her taste in clothing, music, colours and activities change, but I apparently got slightly stupid and useless as well. Those of you who have survived this will recognize the symptoms: Music (any music not encouraged by the parental unit) blaring. The dreaded Eye Roll. The complete and utter self-centered absentmindedness. The sloppy clothing. Refusal to put on appropriate outerwear. Blowing allowance on “essential items” (AKA, junk, usually electronic). Correcting me when I say something (I think this bothers me more than anything, which is, I'm sure, why it happens). These phenomena are why I can justify not knitting the planned Christmas gift. This is nice for me, since it's always a joy to cross something off the list without actually investing hours of my time into it. Let me clarify, though. We have not sunk to the Teenaged Levels as of yet. Katie is still generally respectful, helpful with her siblings, and does her chores without the need for a major family discussion. We are still at the place, and I hope (Mothers of teenagers, please feel free to laugh out loud, but don't tell me about it) that we will stay here, where we can discuss whatever is going on in her world. And I am reminded, when I watch the behaviour of her school mates, of how fortunate we really are. And in one sense, I truly enjoy watching her spread out her wings, and learn who she is. Take a step towards independence, and all that. I am trying very hard to allow her to try anything I don't think will be harmful to her, and pray like crazy through it all. But, seriously! It can get a little frustrating. All of this to say, I was a bit apprehensive when Katie wanted me to knit her something. I explained, as rationally as I could, that while I do love to knit, and while I do love Katie, I was not prepared to invest my time and money on something that would sit in a basket and never be worn. She could pick the pattern and the yarn, but had better make darn sure this thing lasts, at the very least this season. She took a look through my knitting magazines, and chose a beret and mitten set in the new Interweave Knits Holiday Issue. Okay, fine. I was surprised, but if she likes it, it's all good. Then we took a little trip to the LYS yesterday after school, and found a very nice superwash merino wool. What colour does she choose? BLACK! Yikes. You would be proud of me, though, I kept the smile pasted to my face. At least she has good yarn taste. The wool is sitting here, and I started the hat last night. The pattern starts with a couple of inches of I-cord, and then you increase from there. I finished the basic increases, and am on to the pattern. I just hope she wears the darn thing!

My Postman Loves Me

2006-10-24T10:30:00.000-07:00

I was hovering around my house yesterday, knowing that there are parcels on their way to me, and hoping against hope one would show it's face. The post came, I ran out immediately, no parcel. We went out on some errands, came home, no parcel tucked up against my front door. We sat down to dinner, and I said to Stuart, “How sad, I was sure I was going to get a package today.” No sooner had I spoken, than the dog started barking. My postman must love me, he made an extra swing by on his way home, and had his son run my International Scarf Exchange package up to the door! He knows how impatient I am – what a very thoughtful guy! I'm going to have to bake them some cookies. And look at the goodies that arrived! Isn't this scarf so lovely, so fitting, so perfect? It is made from Noro Silk Garden (soooo luxurious, it feels lovely around my neck), and the colourway is beautiful! It goes really well with both my coats (one green, one camel), but also great with jeans and a sweater, which is how I'm wearing it today. In fact, I think I'm now going to start wearing scarves around the house all winter, because I've felt much warmer and cozier since I put it on this morning. I may have to make myself a collection of house scarves! My wonderful pal, Craftylilly used a stitch pattern called Wheat Field, which is so fitting for a girl born and raised on the Prairies! When I look at the scarf, and think about the pattern, I also think of home. Also included was a lovely ball of handspun wool, in my most favourite colours, and some fun little goodies: a zipper bag, a notebook and pen, some fun magnets (Truth or Dare, very cute, and it will be a miracle if Katie doesn't scarper off with them). Thanks so much Jennifer, your thoughtfulness is so appreciated! To keep the fun going, Ms. Knitingale is having a sort of Comfort Swap, meant to help survive the holiday season. Here are the questions she asked us to post: 1. What is your favorite color? Turquoise, Aqua, Teal, Blues, Greens, you get the drift. Although I also like red, too. Especially that deep, dark, red. 2. Is there a color you dislike? I'm not a fan of the bright, neonish colours. For me, anyway. 3. Do you have any pets? What kind? I have a dog, named Judah. He got his name because I wanted to name our future son Judah, and my husband was so against it, that he gave the name to our dog so that I wouldn’t do it. Now I have a lovely son, Brian, and a lovely dog, Judah. 4. Is there any knitting-related item you’re longing to have? I have looked here, and not found, that clear highlighter tape you can use when knitting with a chart. Also, I don't have a Chibi, and think they're kind of cool. (A Chibi, for those of you who asked, is a funky little needle holder with needles in it. And, STR is Socks That Rock sock yarn.) 5. Are you a sock knitter? Yes-ish. I enjoy knitting socks, although all I've done is kids socks. But I have big people socks coming up! 6. Do you have any online wish lists? I have a Chapters wish list. 7. Do you collect anything that isn’t terribly expensive? Yarn! 8. What would make you smile or giggle with delight to find it in your gift box? Just to find a gift box will make me smile with delight! Everything else is gravy. 9. Is there anything that would make you cringe if you found it in your gift box? A big, scary bug? I don't know... 10. Do you have a favorite edible treat? Chocolate, chocolate and more chocolate. Seriously. 11. Do you drink coffee, tea, cocoa, or….? I drink tea like water (in fact, more than water, which I really need to address.) I also like a nice cup of cocoa at times, but I'm not a big coffee drinker. I love the smell of fresh coffee grounds, but don't really love the taste. 12. Are there any dietary restrictions your pal should know about? Nope. 13. Do you celebrate a winter holiday of any kind and, if so, would you like to receive anything holiday themed? I'm a big Christmas girl, all the way. I have noticed the last few years that my Christmas spirit has waned, but I'm trying to keep it revved up for the kids. I think part of it is exhaustion, which I am trying to rectify this year, by doing as much ahead as I can. For example (please, don't hate me when you read this: Hubby & I went over our gift list today – we have 3 gifts to go, and we're done. Including about ¾ of the stocking stuffers. Yay, me! I love to give gifts. I hate to shop.)

Re-Gifting

2006-10-23T14:15:00.000-07:00

Here is my belated Saturday Sky, which I actually took on Saturday, but didn't have a chance to post. It involved lying on my back under the pear tree in my front garden, to the great mystification of my neighbors, who were all doing productive things, like raking. With Christmas only a matter of weeks away, I am reviewing my Gift List to see where I am at, and where I need to focus. In the finished department, we have: 1) The Birthday Poncho. Received, worn, and I hope, loved. 2) Flap Top Mittens. Also received, worn, and they fit, too! 3) Cable and Lace Scarf. This is tucked away for the in-law's Christmas parcel. 4) One of the two Hat/Scarf sets. My Mum's is completed, and also tucked away ready to go. On the needles: 1) The Pirate Sweater. You all know the story here. I am still waiting to start the intarsia. I'll do it. Really I will. 2) The other of the Hat/Scarf sets. Actually, just the hat, but still. It's in progress. Waiting in the wings: 1) Katie's plush, sleeveless, hooded pullover. (Would she appreciate it anyway? She's in a major tom-boy groove right now, and I seem completely incapable of choosing anything for her, even underwear and pajamas, that will meet with her approval. Do I want to spend hours and hours knitting something for her she may not even like?) 2) Gwen's knitted dolly. (Does she even want another dolly? What possible joy could she get from a knitted dolly that she doesn't already feel?) 3) The possible bear for my step-mother. (A nice idea, but really. I saw a perfectly nice Swarovski crystal bear at Wal-Mart the other night. And she really likes Coronation St. Isn't there a Coronation St. book out there?) Obviously, rationalization is setting in. Will the intrepid knitter press on? Will she move on to greener and much more exciting pastures? Stay tuned.

Sssssssnakey

2006-10-20T23:13:00.000-07:00

You know what I heard today, right? "Mom, will you make me some gloves, too?" Sigh. Bring it on. I finished the Snake, I can whip up some gloves, too! Actually, it's even easier than it sounds, since Brian wants fingerless gloves, not actual gloves or mittens. He's very specific in regards to this matter, and I have learned that these are the times to let him be the decision maker. But look at that funky blue snake wound around my baby's neck. That little face is worth all the sweaty hands in the world. Jo asked the other day to share how blogging has changed us. I was all ready to rip off a pat answer, but was interrupted. This is, I think, a good thing, since I've been ruminating on that question ever since. I've been blogging for about six months; how drastically things can change! 1)I have learned a whole new vocabulary. Blogging, webrings, KALs, swaps, fibre festivals, STR, Chibi and more. All things I had no knowledge of until I entered this world. I take it for granted, now, until I talk to a friend who is new to it all. Then I see what a rapid change has taken place. 2)My thought processes have shifted. I have always been a rather deep thinker, but tend to keep those thoughts to myself. Thus, I have not felt the need to clearly define them. In the past, I would float along, a feeling here, an abstract idea there. Now, I find myself composing in my head as I see new things, or have new experiences. I feel the need to flesh out an idea, to put it into terms that someone else will grasp.“How will I share this,” I think to myself, instead of “How do I feel about this?” A subtle difference, perhaps, but a significant one. 3)This feeling of community has deeply rooted in me, and I am content in this place. How satisfying it is to turn a heel in a new way, or knit my first cable, and know that someone out there will understand my excitement, will “feel my high”. How compelling it is to read of another's triumphs, of another's disasters. How touching to see the charitable hearts of those in our clan, when I am so disheartened by the lack of care I see in my day to day life. 4)I have become educated in the world of fibre. Not to tout myself as an expert, by any means. Still, I had no idea of the beauty of natural fibres, had never heard of a “yarn snob”, didn't really know the difference between wool and acrylic. (I mean, I knew the difference, but I didn't comprehend the intrinsic value of the fibre itself.) 5)I have learned about and am willing to attempt new projects. No matter what it is that I want to know, someone out there has the answer, and is willing to share it with me. I have become braver, and more creative because of this. 6)I carry my camera with me everywhere. I will admit that I am generally lax in the photo department. I have always had great respect for the people I see with well documented everythings. Children's events, holidays, special moments galore reside in their photo albums, scrapbooks and computers. I can travel halfway across the country to visit family, and on the very last day I will say, “Quick, let's take some pictures!” My Mum visited a few Christmas' ago. I don't have a single picture of her here. Now, the batteries are charged, the camera is packed, and I whip it out at every possible photographic opportunity. All thanks to blogging.

Dorothy Yarn!

2006-10-17T10:29:00.000-07:00

I've been wanting to post for the last few days, but have been completely annihilated by the nastiest cold I've experienced in a long time! I'm tired, cold, achy, dizzy, stuffy, runny, feverish, you name it! (Insert more whine, whine, whine, here.) Anyway, I've been in survival mode, and wasn't able to stir myself to write until today. But LOOK what the postman brought this morning! Dorothy yarn! Now, if you've never paid a visit to Dorothy, you simply must pop over. She has an amazing eye for colour; I love the way she dyes yarn. I've admired what she does for a while, so you can imagine my extreme delight when I won this in a contest she held on her blog. Now, I don't know if she planned this or not, but the yarn above is called Glacier, and could anything be more fitting for this northern girl? I must say, it is so much like the icefields, it's amazing. The hardy wool just matches the sturdy texture of the mountains, the grey of the ice and rock, the exquisite turquoise of the glacier pools tucked here and there. It's truly lovely, Dorothy, you made this sick girl's day! Thank you. In further knitting news, I have managed to put off The Skull once again. (Can any of you see me frantically finishing this thing up on Christmas Eve?) I am working on a very sweet pair of Feather and Fan socks for Gwenyth, and Brian sidled up to me the other day with this (I must say it, slightly horrid) yarn he bought himself at a garage sale this summer. He found 3 balls of this blue acrylic stuff, and paid the princely sum of 25 cents for the whole kit and caboodle. He turned his lovely hazel eyes on me and begged for a scarf. I foolishly allowed him to surf the net with me to find a pattern, and now I'm knitting up a garter stitch (ugh) acrylic (groan) Snake Scarf. It's whipping along - I might be motivated to finish quickly by the feel of my sweaty hands. Of course, it could be the every half hour check in, too. "Is my scarf done yet? Can I wear it to school tomorrow?" Ah, well. How can you say no to a tiny face that looks just like his daddy?

In A Fog

2006-10-14T10:27:00.000-07:00

This is what mornings have been like up here the last few days, and it's how I've been feeling, too. Not in a bad way, I've always found fog beautiful and mysterious. There's something magical (although, yes, dangerous) about not being able to see what's up ahead. I was driving the kids to school yesterday, and got to thinking that this was somewhat like life. We can only see a bit of the way in front of us, and sometimes, what we think is one thing materializes as something else as we move closer. We have to focus on what's here and now, but still give a little thought to what's up ahead. I've always been the super-planner-of-the-world, so it's hard for me, at times, to really focus on the present. And as much as I hate it at the time, I've learned to be thankful for the fog. Here she is, My So Called Scarf, along with the plain old fingerless gloves I knit up. For the gloves, I just knit a rectangle until I felt it was the right size, and seamed it up, leaving a hole for my thumb. I made these first, and had I known how much I would love this stitch pattern (it is so easy, and I impressed my whole little knitting group with it!), I would have waited, and tried to make them to match. You never know, I may even frog them and re-knit. I do so like to match. Scarf Particulars: Yarn: Grignasco Jazz Print, 100% Merino Wool, 3 and a bit balls Needles: US size 15 Dimensions: I worked this over 24 stitches, and the scarf came out at 5" wide, and about 70" long. Started and Finished: I can't remember exactly how long it took, but I'm thinking it was about a week.

Mission Completion!

2006-10-13T10:14:00.000-07:00

I was very excited to show you my wonderful finished scarf today. I finished it up yesterday, gave it a bath, and laid it out to dry before I left for work. Sadly, though, it's not dry, so the excitement will have to wait until tomorrow. I can tell you, though, that it is exactly what I was hoping it would be. This is a feeling to be savored, since we perfectionists know how rare it really is. Well, actually, there's a bit of a flare along the bind off edge that bugs me a bit, but I scrunched and tugged and pulled at it while blocking, so I hope once I wear it I won't notice it. Even better, I didn't have to frog the fingerless gloves I made out of the same yarn to give the scarf length. It's plenty long enough to wind around my neck, carefully, to show off the great stitch pattern. The only place in my house I've been able to find for blocking is the stretch of carpet on "my side" of the bed. (I have no idea what I'll do if I ever make a beautiful huge shawl - under the bed, perhaps.) So the extra bonus was that when I got home from work last night, I went to sleep with the smell of wool. Can there be anything better? I'm quite sure I had a better sleep because of it, and think we may be on to a new aromatherapy scent. Forget the lavender and chamomile, just give me the wool!

The Good Stuff

2006-10-11T13:01:00.000-07:00

Since I live up in the Frozen North, I tend to do a lot of my yarn shopping online. There is one LYS here that I patronize, and I try to look there before I place an order, but it's not a huge place, and doesn't have the largest selection. Anyway, placing a yarn order is something I find terribly exciting. The decisions, the colours, the sales! It's agonizing bliss. However, I find that often, by the time the yarn makes its' way to my door, the bloom is off the rose, so to speak. I'm happy that it's here, but that feeling of excitement, of acquiring this wonderful new thing is gone. This, I'm pleased to say, is not one of those times! I wonder if it's to do with my perception of the quality of yarn. If I make an order of good old wool, for example, it's not so thrilling. This yarn you see before you, though, is a bit of luxury, at least to me. 11 balls of machine washable DK Merino wool, a ball of Cashmerino, a ball of Regia Cotton in Surf, 2 skeins of Lorna's Laces DK Swirl, and a ball of laceweight Misti Alpaca. You all know that I'm a frugal soul, and am just as excited to bring home my $4.00 recycled cotton from You-Know-Where, but this order was very special for me. So that makes me wonder.... am I a Yarn Snob? Is the fact that this yarn is "brand name" make it better, or have I been seduced by the wonderful fibre it's made of? It's like buying kid's clothes. I do a lot of my clothing shopping at garage sales and thrift stores, partly because of my household budget, and partly because I think it's a shame to buy something new when there's already in existence a perfectly good pair of jeans, or rain coat, or whatever. Anyway, it gets me going when I see that a "brand name" shirt is several dollars more than an equally nice generic shirt. And it bothers me even more that I will pay more to buy the brand name. Sigh. Anyway, away with the dark thoughts, on with the happy thoughts! Yarn! My plans for this bounty of yarn are (so far) as follows: 1) The DK Merino - I bought this with the sweater Coral Crossing, from Interweave Knits Fall 2006 in mind. This was designed by Jennifer Appleby, who I've mentioned before. She lives up here in northern BC. My original plan was to make it in superwash, but my plans have been thwarted right and left. Then I came across this, and thought it might fit the bill. It is machine washable, which is nice, and I love the shade of green! 2) The Cashmerino - I just had to get a ball of this, after all the talk I've heard about how soft it is. Everyone is right! It is sooo soft, and I will likely make a pair of Fetching out of it. 3) Regia Surf - intended to be socks, I was fascinated by the cotton content in it. 4) Lorna's Laces Swirl - my first thought was socks, which I'm sure would knit up very quickly in a DK yarn. However, when it arrived, I realized this is a very soft wool/silk blend, and may not be the best idea for socks. You all know that I'm fast developing an addiction for sock knitting, and I have yearned to make myself a pair of soft and beautiful socks. I may Just Do It. 5) Misti Alpaca Laceweight - again, I had no idea how soft this would be. My original thought in ordering this was for the Swallowtail Shawl in IK. It is so very pretty, and I've seen it knit up beautifully. However, during the wait for it's arrival, I've been noticing these lovely lace wimples. It could just be the weather, but a lace wimple sounds like just the thing! Now. I can't talk anymore, I need to knit!

October Socks

2006-10-10T09:24:00.000-07:00

Here are the socks I made for Brian! I wanted to post about them earlier, but once they were done, Brian wore them for a few days in a row, and then they really, really needed a trip through the laundry. I turned the cuff down for the photo, because I thought it looked nicer, but Brian pulls them all the way up when he wears them. I didn't really follow a pattern for these, just cast on 48 stitches, and knit the cuff in 1x1 rib. I used the same short row heel as I have before, and then decreased 4 stitches every other round when I got to the two. I believe the yarn is Bernat Sox, although Brian fished it out of my stash, and the ball band was missing. It is so very gratifying to make something for someone who so obviously appreciates it! I am quite sure that I'm getting more out of this than I will out of the giant wool aran sweater Stuart is gunning for. Progress is being made on the scarf - I'm onto the second ball of yarn, and it's looking really nice. The fabric is a bit uneven, though. It's flared a bit at the cast on edge, and narrows and widens along the length. It stretches back and forth easily, though, so I'm hoping that blocking will bring it to uniformity. I am in love with the stitch pattern with this yarn, though! It looks exactly as I was hoping it would, and we all know how seldom that can happen!

Hooray, a Saturday Sky!

2006-10-07T09:24:00.000-07:00

I have been feeling very poorly about my lack of Saturday Skies the last few weeks, and was determined to get one taken today. And look! Blue skies, yellow leaves, just the start of naked branches. How lovely. And brrrr, it is so, so, so cold this morning. It's already past 9:00am, and it's sitting nicely at 0 degrees C. Yikes. In honour of our cold weather, I started myself a scarf yesterday. This, naturally, has absolutely nothing to do with my delaying the intarsia pirate sweater at all. At all. Nor do the very sweet Feather and Fan baby socks I'm working on for Gwen. I'm using some Grignasco Jazz, which is the same yarn I used for my ISE scarf. I actually bought mine first, it's been tucked away in my up-and-coming knitting projects basket, waiting for it to be cold enough to motivate me. Following the My So Called Scarf pattern, I'm almost halfway into the first ball. I really like the stitch pattern! It's so fancy and impressive looking, even though there's not much fancy or impressive about it. I had a hard time wrapping my brain around the stitch pattern, but once I gave it a try, it went swimmingly. I'll post a photo once I get a bit more length happening.

Pirate Progress

2006-10-06T12:45:00.000-07:00

I finished up the sleeves for Brian's sweater last night, which brings me to the moment I have been studiously avoiding. The intarsia skull. I have knit intarsia before, and didn't really think it was the big scary deal I've heard it made out to be. However, I've been putting off this intarsia skull for quite a while. The front of the sweater is started, I'm at the very first row of the chart. I can do it, I know I can! I could pretend that my hesitance comes from not wanting Brian to get a peek at it. So far, all he knows is that I'm knitting a present for Someone, but that could be anyone, really. It could be Gwen, or my nephew, or any other Nameless Person that I knit for and don't tell him about. He's been looking longingly at it, but he doesn't know yet. So what shall we call this? Halfway? I think halfway is fair - the back and sleeves are finished and waiting in the basket, the front is started. I still need to pick up and knit the neck, and then seam the whole darn thing up. I'm confident that I will have this finished and tucked away by the end of October, leaving two months for the wrap up of my other gift knitting. In fact, I think I need to do a progress report on the Gift List. Watch for it next week! It's Thanksgiving weekend up here in Canada! This means, of course, that I am working all weekend; we've been rescued, though, by some friends who have invited us to share their roast beast. Stuart and the kiddies are going to head over there at some point during the afternoon, and I will stagger in to a wonderful meal and (hopefully) a nice glass of wine to finish up my day. I drove by a church on the drive to school this morning, and the sign said, "Count your blessings - one by one and slowly". I think this is a wonderful reminder - with all the complaining and whining I've been doing of late, this is a lovely time to remember all my blessings. And say "Thank You".

Sending to Swappers

2006-10-03T15:05:00.000-07:00

I've been busy today getting packages ready to go in the mail. The first is the parcel for my International Scarf Exchange Pal. Here is the completed Mistake Rib scarf, all blocked and lovely. I used Grignasco Jazz, which is 100% Merino, and once blocked showed a lovely halo, and is so soft. My pal lives in a place with cold, wet winters, so my plan was for a cozy warm scarf. I think this fits the bill, and I hope she really enjoys it. I enjoyed knitting it up! I tucked in some of the Tea Forte I told you about, and some mint chocolate. The second box I have to mail is to my Spinning Roving Swap pal. I am sending to her an Ashford Student drop spindle, and some of the same English wool I bought for myself to practice on. My pal is a real beginner at spinning, so I thought she would enjoy this fibre. She, also, has some tea and chocolate, as well as a couple of balls of crochet cotton. She's more of a crocheter than a knitter. Lastly, my first package to my Sockret pal is in the works. I don't want to go into detail on this one, just in case she happens by my blog. I'm having a lot of fun with all this, though! I started Rusted Root last night. It's a pretty easy to knit pattern, and I'm enjoying it so far. Even though the bulk of the pattern is stocking stitch, there is the interest of slipping markers, and the lace panel in front to keep you going. The new yarn is knitting up quite nicely. It's a tad stiff, and I hope it will soften once it's all washed and dried a time or two. Very pretty, though.

Yarn-Happy

2006-10-02T17:56:00.000-07:00

I was at work the other night, and walked past a very exciting thing - a new display of yarn! It's not often that I get yarn-happy at work, but this was one of those occasions. Check it out: Eco-fil yarn, 75% cotton, 25% acrylic, worsted weight. Machine washable. I have no idea of the yardage, but a 225g ball was $3.97. Oh, my frugal soul rejoice! The ball band claims this to be recycled earth-friendly yarn. I chose a royal-ish purple, with some tweedy flecks in it. I picked up a few balls of this, and plan to knit the Rusted Root pattern from Zephyr Style. I know, I know, I need a new project like I need another hole in my head, but I couldn't resist. I've been eyeing up this pattern for a while now, and when I saw this yarn I knew it was meant to be. Wal-Mart also carried a cool colourway, pink plied with some green and a bit of brown that I really liked, as well as a two-toned blue, but I thought they would be too busy for this pattern. Notebook Note: After much searching, I found the notebook in the bag of library books by our front door. No one knows how it arrived there, I'm thinking the notebook either sprouted legs and crawled there on it's own, or Fate just wanted me to start something new. It couldn't possibly have been one of the six other people in this house, touching things they're not supposed to.

New Look

2006-09-30T13:30:00.000-07:00

I am so pleased with the new look of my blog! One of the bloggers I have come to know, Cogknition, is also a super duper computer whiz! She has offered several different blog templates on her own blog, and when I saw this one, I knew it was just right for me. (There is also a really beautiful one with the most lovely knitting needles on it, but the maple leaves won me over. I'm just too Canadian, I can't help it!) I fully intended to post a Saturday Sky photo today, but it is rainy and gloomy out, and I can't imagine that any of you want to see that. I have a great plan for a photo, too, so once it clears up, perhaps I can take it and have it all ready for next Saturday. My little notebook that I write down what I'm doing for each knitting pattern has gone missing. I'm sure it will turn up shortly - Stuart cleaned up last night when I was at work, and I can not for the life of me see what he's done with it. I'm at a total loss, since I can't see past the lack of notebook to knit on any of those projects. I've had to start a whole new project this morning, and so am working on the hat for my step-father for Christmas. I'm only a few rows in, and hope I can get back to the Pirate Sweater quickly. Also, I think I am developing a small addiction to sock making. I must confess, I didn't really see the great appeal until recently, and since I've completed Gwen's baby socks, I can't seem to stop! It just feels wrong to not have a sock on the needles.

Knitiversary

2006-09-29T16:25:00.000-07:00

It was about this time last year that I first held two pointy sticks in my hands, and discovered the joy of creating something out of a bit of string. I can't remember the exact date, but then, I can't remember my exact wedding anniversary, either, and there are times I forget how old I am. My youngest child, Gwenyth, was born last summer. After her birth, I was plunged into what I suppose is called the "baby blues". I had no idea what was wrong with me - I was just not myself. The tears, the tiredness, the inability to sleep, the negativity (this was most strange, I'm a bit of a Pollyanna). I went to the doctor to look for answers, but his only solution was the offer of anti-depressants, and I wasn't willing to try that. I tried lots of things to buck myself up: I made a habit of walking around the house smiling, even when I didn't feel like it. I started a "Thankful Journal", in which I wrote something to be thankful for every day, even when I didn't feel very thankful. I went for walks, ate fruit, drank water. You know. One day, in early September, I was on my way home from driving my oldest daughter to school, and I went past a church. They had a sign up on the board advertising a Morning Out for Moms group, with registration that very day. I thought, "Oh, I would love to do something like that", and kept driving. A few minutes later, I though, "Why can't I do something like that?", and turned the truck around. I met a lady with her two boys in the parking lot, and asked her if I could come in and check it out, even if I didn't attend that church. She encouraged me to do so, and as we chatted, I learned that she was teaching a knitting class. The way this particular program went, the group met together for coffee and a visit, and then broke up into smaller groups learning various things: scrapbooking, breadmaking, sewing a Christmas wall hanging, knitting. The kids all went to organized and well prepared child care, and you volunteered to help provide said child care on one of the (I think) 6 weeks of the program. Anyway, I signed up, and began my adventure into the wonderful world of knitting. I had always wanted to knit. My mother-in-law knits, and I longed to ask her to teach me, but was too timid, and worried of upsetting the careful balance of friendliness between us. The first session, all I learned was how to cast on. I went home and cast on for a hat for Brian. My logic was, that if he knew that I was making him something, he would be more likely to go willingly into the preschool child care room. I ripped it back and cast on again, and then one more time before our next meeting. It felt so good. With every loop of yarn on the needle, my world, which had been completely turned on it's side, found order. Then the magic really started. I learned to knit. I learned to purl. I started a 2x2 ribbed hat, in blue variegated Red Heart acrylic yarn. I was in love. Knitting is more than just a craft to me. It has truly saved my sanity, brought me joy, caused me to make friends I never imagined. It has satisfied my need for having a hobby, for having something that is mine, all mine, even if what I make is almost always for someone else. The process is for me. It frees me from the irrational guilt I feel when I sit down to watch TV, or take a break in the middle of the day. Knitting has allowed me to create beautiful objects, using beautiful materials, but still wind up with a practical useful object. This combination satisfies both my anti-establishment hippy side, and my suburban accountant side, which believe me, is not easy to do. In so much of my life I feel torn about what I do, but in knitting, I find contentment. I so appreciate all of you readers. I think you have no idea, but perhaps you do, how important to me your comments are, how much I value your relationship, your positivity, your input, and your support. So thanks.

Whining and Whingeing

2006-09-27T12:42:00.000-07:00

I am feeling very frustrated and sorry for myself today, and I'm sick to death of my own bad attitude. I am tired of having no kitchen, tired of washing dishes in the bathroom sink, having non-baby-friendly tools, supplies and equipment all over my house. Of having a so lived in living room, of the refrigerator living in my dining room, and worst of all, having no stove to boil water for a cup of tea. I feel spoiled and selfish even complaining about all this. The summer of 1991 I spent in the Ukraine, in a little town called Shevchenko, just outside of Odessa. My sheltered little North American self was shocked, horrified and deeply touched to see the way people live in other parts of the world, and that lesson has never left me. I have so very much to be grateful for, not the least, right now, a wonderful husband who renovates our older house in his "spare time", and makes us beautiful tiled floors in the process. Yes, it's worth it, of course it is. So why am I so grumpy about it today? I don't know. I'm a very scheduled, planner kind of person (it's not an accident that I'm training to become an accountant!) and it stresses and disturbs me when everything in my ordered home goes out of whack. Perhaps I need to put the kiddies down for a nap, ignore the dishes and knit for a bit. I am blocking the ISE scarf as we speak. It is so long! Much longer than I envisioned, and I hope the recipient is pleased with it. I was going to have Katie model it for us - I hope it's not too long even for her! It is pretty, I think, and very soft, but in my mind is more of a practical, wind around your neck on a cold, wet morning kind of scarf. Let's hope she's pleased. Yesterday I did some running around with a friend, and found the most amazing tea! It is from a company called Tea Forte, and is really lovely tea, with the most amazing packaging! I would post a picture, but my camera is in the kitchen, locked away by drying tiles. But do click on the link if you're interested, the tea is packaged in these little "Silken Tea Infusers", pyramids of fabric to hold the loose tea, and there is a very clever little leaf on a wire to bend around the handle of your teacup, or the top of your teapot. I had a taste in the shop, and it is so clean tasting! You know how some teas leave a funny aftertaste? Not this one! I was pleasantly surprised, and had to buy a box. Since they are individually wrapped, I plan to include a few in my swap packages coming up, the International Scarf Exchange, and the Spinning Roving Swap. Speaking of swaps, I was contacted by my secret swap "sender" for the Sockret Swap, and I am embarrassed at how joyful I was to hear from her! She, apparently, is a very experienced sock knitter, and I am so thrilled at the idea of someone so expert making me a pair of socks. What a treat! I am still waiting to read my own "sendee"'s questionnaire, but am already planning my first little swap package. Oh, this is so much fun! As for the knitting - I am focusing on Brian's little socks, as well as his Pirate Sweater, still. And I was visiting my nephew this morning, and have now added another project to my list, although it may not be for Christmas. He's just turned 4, and is completely obsessed with flags. This has been going on for the past few years, and so I have given him flag books, flag stickers, and he has a collections of flags from around the world. He was telling me today that his favourite flag is South Africa, and so I want to knit him a hooded cardigan, with an intarsia flag accross the back. I'll have to do some pattern hunting for a basic pattern - does anyone have any suggestions? I was thinking perhaps the ChildHood, from Knitty, done solid except for the picture on the back. I have been working quite a bit again, and am missing my evening knitting time, but tonight I have off. I am looking forward to tonight - we've rented The Lake House, and I can't wait to sit and knit and watch a movie!

Sockret Pal Swap

2006-09-26T22:52:00.000-07:00

So I joined this swap a while ago, and now they've matched us all up! I'm excited about it, since it's more of a long-term swap - three different packages over the next six months, one of which is to include a pair of hand-knitted socks. I'm looking forward to getting to know another knitter, and brightening her day a bit. Here is the questionnaire for my own secret pal: The basics:How long have you been knitting? I have been knitting almost exactly one year! I learned to knit last fall at a Mom's Morning Out group. Do you consider yourself a beginning sock knitter, an intermediate, or have you been doing this so long you could probably knit a pair in your sleep? I'm a beginning sock knitter - I've made socks for my daughters, and have a pair on the needles for my son. I'm looking forward to making myself a pair one of these days! The measurements:While your pal may ask for some additional info to ensure a great fit, please provide your shoe size, or any other fitting related info you think is pertinent. (fiber related) I wear a ladies 7-8, depending on the fit. My foot is more long and thin than wide. Favorites:What colors do you love?Do you prefer solids or variegated?What fibers do you most love to knit with?Who do you consider your favorite yarn vendors?What projects (other than socks, of course*S*) do you most enjoy knitting? (fiber related) My favourite colours are turquoise, aqua, blue, green, anything in there, although I love most colours except the really bright neon-ey ones. I prefer variegated over solids, and love heathered yarn. I love any soft, natural fiber. I have developed a real love for knitting with wool, and love the finer weights of yarn. I love gift knitting, and will knit pretty much anything if I think a family member will love it. I have a hard time knitting for myself, so getting a pair of socks made just for me is a thrilling idea! Dislikes:What fibers can you not stand to knit with? To wear?What colors would you never wear? I can't stand knitting with the kind of synthetic yarn that feels plastic-ish or scratchy in my hands. The texture is so important to me, both while knitting and wearing. Because I'm up north in Canada, warm fibers are great! The only colours I would never wear are the bright yellow/oranges, I think. The Tools:Plastic or Metal? Bamboo or wood?Circs or Straights?DPNs or Magic Loop?Are there any knitting accessories you don't have in your collection but would like? I've always knit with metal, but have recently discovered the joy of bamboo needles. I've only used DPN's, although am intrigued by the other methods, especially 2 circs or magic loop. I don't have any DPNs smaller than size 1, and would love to find some! Oh, and I'm fascinated by this Chibi (?) thing I keep hearing about on blogs. The Extras:Do you have a wish list? If so, please share the link!Do you like sweet, sour or salty? (or all of the above? *S*)Do you have any allergies your pal should know about? (Certain foods, smoke, pet hair, etc)Favorite scents? Scents you can't stand?Do you collect anything (other than yarn and knitting toys of course)?When is your birthday? (month and day is fine!)Do you spin? Dye your own yarn?Your favorite author/band/vacation spot, anything you think will help your pal know you better... No wish list or anything like that.... I love tea, chocolate, anything ocean related. No allergies at all, thank goodness. My birthday is July 21. I've just learned to spin this summer on a drop spindle, although I haven't had much time for it since. I've never tried dyeing my own yarn, although it sounds very interesting! I love reading knitting related fiction, as well as murder mysteries and good Christian fiction. Hmmmm, I can't think of anything else to tell you, please feel free to ask if there is anything you'd like to know!

Baby Socks and the Reason I Had No Computer

2006-09-22T09:24:00.000-07:00

I can't begin to tell you how good it feels to sit at my own computer in my own dining room, uploading photos and writing a blog entry. A sigh of relief fills me as I type. I had no idea how attached I would become to blogging, but my soul loves the sharing of what I'm doing and who I am, and I'm grateful and appreciative of all you who read, and share your own souls in turn. Here is the promised photo of the baby socks I finished during hell week. You may recognize the yarn, it is the self-same Patons Krazy Stripes that I made Katie. I thought I would have enough to just "whip up" a pair for Gwen, and set to it. Then, just as I came to the toe, I realized I was not going to have enough, and fished another ball of this out of the stash. Then, I decided to just knit as long as I could with the bit that was left, and ended up finishing with the original ball! I had approximately 10cm(3.94") of yarn after grafting the toe. How perfect! My frugal self hates, hates, hates wasting yarn, and this kind of economy pleases me immensely. To knit 2 pairs of socks, from 1 ball of yarn, and have basically no waste at the end? What could be better than that? I'll tell you what could be better than that - using my dining room again! For those of you who love renovations, here are the before and after shots of my lovely room. At least - after so far. I have purchased new curtains, and we have now decided to repaint, as well. I'll show you the real after shot later, once we finally get there. It will be a bit, since now that the dining room is done, Stuart is doing the kitchen floor as well. As happy as I am to have this new, beautiful floor. (And I am happy. Really. We have been living with this old floor for the past 5 years, always meaning to re-do it, and never getting there. Both Brian and Gwen have done their bit, finding weak spots in the old, brittle tile, and breaking bits off and trying to eat them. Gross.) Still, I am dreading the thought of no kitchen for the next week, or however long it takes Stuart the wonder husband to finish. He's a very hard worker, and I do so appreciate his willingness to work all day, come home to take care of the kiddies while I go to work, and then spend an hour or two renovating our floor. We are very fortunate, though, that Jeannie is in the basement, and is willing to let me invade her little kitchen every time I need a cup of tea, or whatever. So I should stop complaining, I mean, look at my new floor! So thrilling! Just in case any of you notice, yes, the light fixture is higher in the second picture. We had the dining table under the light before, and tied the light up high while we were flooring. (I use we very, very, loosely.) Now that it's up there, I kind of like it, and am thinking of centering the table on the wall with the picture of Wales on it, where the bookshelf used to stand. Knitting progress continues on the Pirate Sweater, and Brian's socks. It's all about Brian this week, although I'm planning to take time today or tomorrow to weave in ends and block the ISE scarf. I'd really like to get this in the post this week, although I'm still on the hunt for some little goodies to include in the package. I'm pretty new at this exchange stuff, and am unsure. What do you all send, if you send parcels?

Yawn

2006-09-19T14:00:00.000-07:00

I'm home at last. My hell week is over, and I'm pleased to say I finished both my ISE scarf, and the baby socks for Gwen while I was surviving. Believe me, it was sanity knitting, in that if I didn't knit I would go insane. I have no pictures to post, because we are still re-tiling our kitchen/dining room, and my cable plug in is there, so I don't have my computer. I'm using a friends' at the moment, but am not energetic enough to try and figure out all that technology. I've been working on Brian's sock the last couple of days, and turned the heel yesterday. It's actually starting to look like a sock, and I'm not making much progress today, since whenever I pick it up, I get busy admiring the short row heel, and forget about the actual knitting. More goodies arrived in the mail this week! Gina, a wonderful lady I met at Make 1 Yarns in Calgary, was destashing recently, and I bought some lovely turquoise wool. It's my favourite colour, and so very hard to resist. I was completely thrilled, though, when I opened up the parcel. The wool is beautiful, and she threw in some extra single balls of wool, and a few balls of great, colourful, fuzzy yarn. I'm thinking about making Gwen a poncho, but that will go on the back burner of the imagination, for the moment. I will post pictures once I get my computer back, but wanted to tell you all anyway. I feel like I should end this post with something clever, but am completely without a single clever thing to say. Thanks for sticking around, all. Regular blogging should return shortly.

Patterns and Providence

2006-09-15T13:32:00.000-07:00

Hello to all, this is a quick post just to keep my hand in, so to speak. I'm almost halfway through the work week of hell, and looking forward to a day off on Tuesday. The Pirate Sweater, to answer your questions, is from the book Adorable Knits for Tiny Tots, by Zoe Mellor. It is a truly excellent book, although I understand there are some errors, and errata is hard to come by. I ended up emailing both the publisher and designer directly, and someone answered me with a document of corrections for the sweater, although I'm not sure of the source. Still, the book is full of absolutely wonderful baby and small children's patterns. I had an exciting thing happen last night, and I must share. (Remember, small things make me very happy.) My oldest daughter has been campaigning for a pair of camouflage pants for the past couple of months. We looked around a bit, and the pair she wanted was $45, which made me laugh out loud. I know you all know how much yarn you can buy with that much money - obviously she did not. At any rate, I told her that perhaps for her birthday I would buy her a pair, and left it at that. (Her happy day is in the beginning of November.) Yesterday, at Wal-Mart, I happened to cruise by the girl's clothing department on my way to clock in, and found a lone pair of camo pants! In her size! I quickly passed them to Stuart (who occasionally still walks me to work - he's so sweet sometimes), and he bought them and stashed them. Yay! Another random funny thing this morning - the Canada Post guy drove up to my house. No big deal, this is a fairly regular occurrence here. If I'm not waiting for yarn, then Stuart has found a treasure on eBay, or has ordered some essential toy for his telescope. Apparently the postman thinks the same way. After I signed for the package, I realized it was for my neigbour - not for us at all! When the postman looked at the address, and saw it was in this area, he just assumed it was us! Too funny, and maybe a little scary? Perhaps we do too much online shopping. I did take the opportunity to advise him that I do have yarn on the way, however, so he could watch for it, and get it over here as quickly as possible :0)

Roll Call

2006-09-09T18:13:00.000-07:00

I mentioned the other day that I should do a roll call. I was nervous to even think about it too closely, but it's actually not as bad as I thought. I was starting to feel overwhelmed with all the projects I have on the needles right now, but when it comes down to it, there are only five. (Thank goodness I finished that little hat!) Here they are: 1) The ISE scarf for my secret pal. This scarf is the first time I have tried spit splicing my yarn. I am amazed at how well it works, which is lovely. I was dreading weaving in all those thick ends. I had to run down to the LYS this afternoon to pick up some more of this yarn. It uses more than I thought it would, and I was worried that I wouldn't get the length I was hoping for. This also causes me concern, since I had bought this same yarn (Grignasco Jazz print) for a scarf for myself, and they are now out of the colourway I chose. Sigh. This may mean frogging the fingerless gloves I made for myself, for the sake of a few more inches of scarf.

2) Brian's socks got started, but I haven't really gone back to them in a few days. The ribbing is just so irritating - I hate knitting 1x1 rib, there is all that flipping around of yarn. I may even frog this and give it another go with 2x2 ribbing. I'm not sure what yarn this is, the ball band was gone when I pulled it out of the stash, but I believe it may be Bernat Sox.

3) The Pirate Sweater. I have the back done, and started the first sleeve. I'm not sure about the look of the sleeve in only the dark/light browns. I'm considering ripping this back, and doing the cuff out of the light blue from the body. In the meantime, I'm about to cast on for the front. I think I'll focus my energy on the scarf, though, so I can get it in the mail. The yarn is a GGH acrylic/cotton blend, that I picked up at Make 1 Yarns.

4) Sizzle. This is my second go for this pattern. The first try was out of Knitpicks Shine, and was coming along nicely, until I shrunk out of the size I was knitting. It is still in my pile, waiting for a trip to frog pond. I have cast on for this, and that is it! I have literally only knit a couple of rows on this, before getting guilty that I was knitting for myself when I have gift knitting to do. I love the colour of this yarn, it's Patons Merino in Peacock. I plan to add sleeves to this, and have reserved a book suggested by the designer with information on making short row cap sleeves. I can't recall the name, but I'll let you know if I ever get to that place. I had considered just picking up stitches and knitting on a longer sleeve, but I really like a cap sleeve, so I'm going to make that Plan A.

5) Orangina. I bet you'd all forgotten about her, eh? I haven't! She is still languishing in my knitting basket, and I'm pretty sure I won't come back to her until late winter/early spring. I don't have the heart to knit on this while in the dead of winter, and I have so much else to do, it's dropped to the bottom of the priority list. The yarn is Mandarin Petit, which is 100% Egyptian cotton, and so very soft in my fingers. I love the way that it feels in my hands, and think it will feel just as nice when I actually wear it.

So, there we go! Eternal optimist that I am, I tell myself I just need to focus on one thing at a time, and just do it! Oh, did I mention I work 9 of the next 10 days? I may not be around much for a bit, but don't worry. I'll be back. Hopefully, I'll have something finished to show you!

An Unwilling Model

2006-09-08T12:58:00.000-07:00

Oh, the frustrations of dealing with an unwilling model! I took photo after photo of Miss Gwenyth, who was determined not to smile, unless she was pulling that darn hat off her head. Finally, Blues Clues caught her attention on the television, and I managed to get this one. Next time, I think I'll stuff the hat with tissue paper and display it on a cake stand. I've talked before about my current fascination with the book Last-Minute Knitted Gifts. I love it, and long to own it. Yes, I could just go online and buy it, but I haven't yet let myself do it. I requested it through my local library first (it finally arrived, on loan from Castlegar, of all places!), I suppose as a test run, to see how much I would really use it on a daily basis. There is a dearth of space in my very small, very full house, and we have books in piles, books in cardboard boxes, books in every room of the house. Someday, I hope to have my very own library, but until then, each book purchase must be weighed with the question of how much use I will actually get from it. I'm convinced now that this one is a keeper. Since I have to return the book in the next week, I quickly knit this up: Particulars: Pattern: Children's Cotton Hat, Last-Minute Knitted Gifts Yarn: Mission Falls 1824 Cotton, 1 ball of the mis-dyed Peony Started: September 06, 2006 Finished: September 08, 2006 Notes: I followed the pattern exactly for the toddler size, and I think it's safe to say that Gwen will need to move up to the child size before long. The only thing I found wrong with the pattern itself was that there are one too many eyelets (or one short, depending on how you look at it). I solved this problem by simply skipping the last one when weaving the I-cord through, and it worked fine. Upon closer look at the picture in the book, it looks like that was their solution as well, at least with the yellow hat. This was my first time making I-cord, and I found it a bit fiddly. I'm more inclined to just crochet a chain, and think I might do just that, to compare the two looks. As you can see, this was another super fast knit (you must imagine that all I'm knitting these days are scarves and anything to be completed in less than a week!). The only reason this pattern took even 2 days was that I received the name of my ICE pal, and was very distracted with yarn purchase and pattern selection. The knitting group I am a member of meets in a local church, and has agreed to provide some knitted items to sell at their Fall Fair fundraiser. I'm thinking a couple of these should be great for that purpose. I haven't made much progress on said ICE scarf. I've tried a few stitch patterns, and wasn't terribly impressed with any of them. Nothing in Scarf Style spoke to me (well, except for Lady Eleanor, who I reserve for myself), and I keep coming back to the mistake rib stitch. I think I'm going to just stay here, since this is apparently what the yarn wants to be. Now, to decide on the gauge. I was swatching with 5.5mm needles, but think it could go a touch looser. I have so many projects on the needles right now I think I need to do a role call. I'm getting overwhelmed, but loving every minute of it!

ISE Begins!

2006-09-07T11:30:00.000-07:00

I received my top secret swap name from the International Scarf Exchange last night, and ran off to the LYS this morning to pick this up. The yarn I've chosen is Grignasco Jazz Print, which, you may recall, is the same yarn I bought for my own scarf and fingerless gloves. It's 100% Merino, and the yarn is so soft, and the colours so lovely. I really like how the colour changes, and within each colour change is the variation from the ply of the yarn. I am making a Mistake Rib Scarf; since it's a fairly simple stitch pattern, I think the colours of the yarn will show up nicely. And, I don't know how the person I'm making this for likes to wear her scarf, so I thought I'd better make it reversible. (Note to my own top secret swap pal: If you're reading this, my scarf does not need to be reversible. I generally wear a scarf wrapped around my neck, with the ends tucked into my coat. Not that reversible is bad, just so you know :0) I was going to post about this before I started the scarf, but couldn't wait, and just had to cast on. I am hoping to get both younger kids to go down for a nap shortly, so I can sit and knit in peace. Edited to add: I just got a call from the library, and the copy of Scarf Style I had reserved has just come in. I'm going to try to pop by this afternoon to pick it up - I'm going to hold off on any more scarf knitting until I look through there. I may see a pattern I just fall in love with!

Spinning Roving Swap

2006-09-04T19:37:00.000-07:00

I have joined another swap, but this one is with a twist. It can be found at Spinning Roving Swap, and looks like a lot of fun, both for super spinners, and incredible novices like me. This is the questionnaire that they ask we post, for the benefit of my top secret swap partner: 1) How long have you been spinning? I learned to spin at a class at Make 1 Yarns in July of this year. 2) Are you a beginner, novice, or experienced spinner? So much a beginner I can't believe it! 3) Do you spin on a drop spindle or wheel, or both? Drop spindle, although I am both thrilled and terrified at the thought of using a wheel. 4) What types and weights of drop spindles (or what type of spinning wheel(s) ) do you currently own? I own a student Ashford wooden spindle, that I received when I took the class. 5) What type of fibers have you spun with before? Silk hankies, wool (I don't remember what kind), I just purchased some English wool to practice on, but haven't tried it yet. 6) What fibers do you prefer to spin with? I don't know enough yet to have a like or dislike for different fibres. The silk was very easy to spin, which was nice. 7) What fibers do you dislike? I can not imagine disliking any natural fibre! 8) Do you prefer natural colored fibers, or handpainted/dyed fiber? Definitely handpainted/dyed. 9) Would you prefer all one type of roving or smaller amounts of different types to sample? I think all one type. 10) What are you favorite colors? Turquoise, blue, green 11) What colors do you dislike? I don't exactly dislike, but do not prefer the bright yellows and oranges. 12) What would you like to do with your handspun yarn, or what do you plan to do with it? (pattern clarification here) A small, forgiving knitting pattern would be lovely. 13) What spinning projects are you currently working on? Just practicing with the English wool 14) Do you have a wishlist? Not yet! 15) What are your other favorite hobbies? Reading, walking, Hapkido 16) Do you have any allergies (pet, smoke, food, fiber,etc...)? Nope! 17) What is your preferred shipping method (USPS, UPS, FedEx)? Anything that will get the parcel to my door in one piece is fine by me!

Cables and Lace Complete!

2006-09-02T12:58:00.000-07:00

I completed this lovely scarf yesterday, and was very proud of myself for being so organized. I managed to finish it up, weave in ends, give it a Wool Wash bath, and lay it out to dry before work last night. There she is, hanging over my rocking chair in an attempt at an artful shot. Particulars: Pattern: Cable and Lace Scarf, by Jen Appleby Yarn: Debbie Bliss Alpaca Silk, 3 skeins Started: August 25, 2006 Finished: September 01, 2006 Notes: I followed this pattern exactly as written, and loved the way it knitted up. The yarn was so soft and fluffy, it was a joy to feel it moving through my fingers. Since I've blocked it, though, the scarf has flattened out quite a bit. I'm not sure if the fluffiness will come back once it gets moved and worn a bit, or not. Either way, it's very nice, and I really hope my mother-in-law will enjoy it. Here's a closer look at the pattern, I think the lace and cable really go nicely together. I've cast on for a very simple fingerless glove for myself. I figure I'll just do a basic stocking stitch rectangle, and seam it up, leaving a hole for my thumb. I looked at a lot of different patterns, but even the ones I found for this gauge of yarn were too busy for me. I think when you have really pretty variegated yarn, that simplicity is sometimes the best. We'll see how it goes, I may rip it out and go back to doing something in the round. I also started my next installment of Christmas knitting, casting on for the hat to match the red and black scarf I finished earlier.

Spinning and Crafting

2006-09-01T12:39:00.000-07:00

I was very pleased yesterday to purchase some beautiful fibre. I haven't had a chance to pick up my spindle since the class I took at Make 1 Yarns last month. This was partly because I haven't had much time, but also because I didn't have any fibre to spin. I looked around here, and didn't really come up with anything, until a friend reminded me that Mud River Angoras is here, and carries wonderful fibre! The funny thing is that I had met the owner back when I first learned to knit last fall. I learned at a Morning Out for Moms group at a local church, and Loralee was in the same group as I. At the time, though, she had her rabbits, and talked about spinning, but hadn't yet opened her business. Our mutual friend is becoming a wonderful spinner herself, so she knew just how to hook me up! Loralee was so excellent to deal with! She was knowledgeable, friendly and helpful, and offered to give me some time on her own spinning wheel. Since I am fortunate enough to live near her, she even made a housecall, with several different types and colours of fibre! If products like this are of interest to you, do take a moment to check her out. My other reason for wanting some fibre was to do this craft with the kids. I think it will make a great little gift for teachers, grandparents and such, and it gives the big kids a chance to get their hands dirty, and touch my stuff! What's not to like? The light blue ball on the right is Merino, destined for our little felting project. (The ball on the left is English wool, and is my practice yarn for spinning.) In the knitting department, I'm almost done the Cable and Lace scarf! I'm rounding the bend on ball #3, and hope to have pre-blocking photos for you all tomorrow. Poor Brian's socks are still in the ribbing phase, but he's content as long as he sees me pick them up at least once a day. I am on the hunt for a pattern for fingerless gloves. I have some beautiful yarn to make myself a scarf/glove set for this winter. I'm planning on using the My So Called Scarf pattern, and have tried several different glove patterns to no avail. The yarn (Grignasco Jazz Print) is quite thick - I think it's similar to Manos del Uruguay, and is a very pretty brown/green/pink mix. I've just come across several patterns online that call for heavier yarn, so I'll be doing some reading and comparing. Hopefully I'll have some new gloves for you all to check out soon. And thanks for the comments on the sweater. Sometimes finding just the right pattern for yarn you already have can be tough. No decisions have been made yet, I'm still ruminating.

Roses and Galway Plans

2006-08-31T09:11:00.000-07:00

Autumn is coming. The mornings are cool and crisp, and the light has changed. Here is my very last rose of the season. I love fall, and am generally so excited to see the start of it, but this year I'm so busy with work and school starting, that I haven't had a chance to enjoy the early signs of the change in seasons. In my own garden the leaves are still green, but down by the river there is a large amount of yellow. My favourite thing to do at this time of year is pick up a chai tea, and go sit on the riverbank, listening to the trees say goodnight, and watching the water. Perhaps next week, when the big kids are back in school, I'll have a chance. I'd hate to miss tucking in the river trees for the winter. The Galway is lovely, I'm very pleased with it. When I ordered it, I had chosen a different colour, and then found out there was not enough, and had to go with a second choice. I closed my eyes and picked from three different colours, and this one looked quite raspberry-ish on the monitor. I was delighted to open up the box and see this soft, purpley, heatherey sort of yarn. What I am longing for is a cozy sweater to wear with jeans on a chilly morning. Nothing too fitting, but not hanging like a sack, either. Nothing too complicated, but also not boring to knit. I am undecided between a pullover and a cardigan. Sometimes I hate pulling things on and off over my head - a cardigan you can take on and off depending on what you (or the mucky baby) are doing. I think I prefer the idea of a pullover, but in stores while shopping, I am always drawn to the cabled cardigans. My mind is wandering all over the place, trying to make a decision. I can't start it until my Christmas Knitting is finished, so I have time to make a choice, but I'm a planner, and can't rest until a pattern has been designated for this yarn. It's sitting there in limbo at the moment, and that just can't be. I have 6 balls, so about 1300 yards, which should be enough for a small/medium sweater. At this point I have three basic ideas. 1. The Not Your Standard Issue Sweatshirt, from Yarn Girl's Guide to Simple Knits. I have really liked this pattern for a long time, and it's description seems to fit what I want this sweater to be. The gauge is slightly off, though, the pattern calls for 4 sts/1", and the Galway is 4.5 sts/1". Also, it's a very simple pattern. Will I get bored and put it off? 2. The Woman's Cardigan, from KnitSimple, Fall 2006. This is a cabled cardigan, and doesn't seem too difficult. The interest is definitely there, since there's so much going on. It calls for the same gauge as option #1. It's a bit short in the length for me, but I suppose I could lengthen it a titch. 3. The Hourglass Sweater, from Last-Minute Knitted Gifts. Very pretty. I love the neckline. The sweater is simple, which I like, but still looks flattering. Will it be comfy enough to pull on over a T-shirt? I don't know. It has shaping, which I like, but is basically all stocking stitch. I know some of you out there have made this pattern. Any advice? Will I get frustrated with all the stocking stitch and throw in in a bag somewhere? Please, dear readers. I am open to any and all suggestions, thoughts and advice. Do share! Also, am I the only one out there who sounds out the verification letters when posting a comment to a blog? I catch myself doing it every single time - my family most likely thinks I'm inventing my own language. I sit and mutter my strange new word under my breath over and over. Until I catch myself, shake my head and have a sip of tea, that is.

Birthday Bounty

2006-08-29T17:34:00.000-07:00

How's that for some yarn porn? My heartbeat still hasn't slowed down! This treasure was all waiting for me when I got home from work yesterday. A week or so ago, Stuart suggested I place myself a big fat yarn order, since he hadn't given me a birthday gift. I went a little crazy, ordering a few back issues of magazines, Fibre Trends patterns for the Baltic Lace Stole and both adult and children's sized Felted Clogs. A few balls of Mission Falls cotton got thrown in, as well as several different colours of wool (for the slippers). Last but not least, the Galway Wool on the far left is for a sweater. For me, me, me! I am determined to make something for myself, and that it will fit, and that I will finish it! Big dreams, eh? My big surprise, though, when I opened up the package, was that Stuart had been sneaky. He went online after I placed my order, and ordered me a set of Denise interchangeable needles. I've been longing for them for a long time, but could never justify the purchase. What a great treat! I haven't tried them out yet, although they're not in the picture because I had everything out all over the place when I snapped the photo. If you've never heard of them, I ordered from Busy Hands Yarn, which is sadly going out of business. If you're a bargain hound, there are bargains to be had! Once I knew I was going to be working for a bit, and more hours than I was planning, I allowed myself a second order of a few things I passed over the first time. It should be here the end of this week or early next (Canada Post is a flighty bunch at times), so I'll show you my next set of goodies then. Boy, do I feel spoiled!

Finished Footies

2006-08-28T11:13:00.000-07:00

Here is a photo of Katie modeling the completed socks! She is very pleased to have them before school starts, and I am very pleased to have completed a pair of socks! Now that I'm working, I'm finding I have much, much less knitting time, and it's a bit frustrating. Here are the particulars: Pattern: Fruit-Flavored Striped Footies, from the July 2006 Creative Knitting Yarn: Patons Kroy, in Krazy Stripes Started: August 12, 2006 Finished: August 28, 2006 Modifications: I sized this pattern up a bit, since it only goes up to size 12, and Katie's feet are larger. Other than that, I followed it to the letter, and even managed to Kitchener the toes. It seems like a good pattern, and I've had a really tough time locating sock patterns for these sizes of feet. It seems like all the ones I run across are sized for adults, or toddlers. I've cast on for a second pair of these, but since they're for Brian, I plan to make the top longer (he's not such a footie kind of guy). I was sitting and knitting this morning, while the kids were watching Lilo & Stitch (the weekly show, not the movie). They had a little alien running around zapping people, who all started behaving instantly as though they were on holiday. Every person only did what was fun for them. I wondered: if I got zapped, would I stop knitting? I don't think so.

Cables and Lace

2006-08-25T15:43:00.000-07:00

I've been making progress on my next project from The List. This is a scarf for my mother-in-law, knit from Debbie Bliss Alpaca Silk. Oh my, the yarn is sooooo soft! I've never before worked with a "luxury" yarn, and it feels so nice in my hands, I just love working with it. This is my first attempt at cables, and I must say, you were all correct! I have been told time and again how easy cables were, and I was amazed at how simple this really was. I know there are more complex cables out there, but this is very encouraging for a beginner like me. The pattern is by Jen Appleby , who also designed the cable sweater with pockets in the current Interweave Knits. I recently subscribed, so am eagerly waiting my first copy in the mail. Jen had a booth at a Quilt Exhibition here in the spring. I purchased the yarn from her, and she included the pattern. The sock is coming along nicely. I'm on my way down the foot now, so it's close to the end. Brian has already put his name in for a pair, and I think I have some brightly coloured sock yarn in the stash that will do the job. I think each child is going to need a pair before I have permission to make myself some socks. Unfair though it may seem, at least they get basic old sock yarn. I'm waiting to get myself something really beautiful, like Lorna's Laces, or even better, some of that sweet Fleece Artist Merino. (In keeping with my new "responsibility" ideas, I have decided to at least make an effort to purchase independently made, or Canadian made yarn. With some of the amazing Canadian manufacturers out there, I'm sure I'll have no difficulty at all. Can anyone say Koigu?) Jobwise, I've really been thrown into the deep end. I worked a half shift last night, and go back tonight again. I'm going to have extra money for yarn, but no time to knit with it, apparently. I must say, I was pleasantly surprised at the friendly, positive management and staff I've come into contact with so far. And I was pleased to read, in the introduction booklet, that Wal-Mart does have a "Buy Canadian" policy. I don't know how far that goes, but it does warrant some looking into, at least! Thanks so much for the positivity sent my way - it was sooo appreciated!

Sock Yarn

2006-08-24T12:17:00.000-07:00

I had planned a lovely post, with pictures of my completed sock (Yay!) and my progress on the second (just finished the heel). When I sat down to photograph and post, however, I realized my camera batteries had died, and had to go back on the charger. Sigh. The yarn I am using is Patons Kroy Stripes, in the Krazy Stripes colourway. I have quite a few balls of this yarn in this colour and (I think) Kool Stripes. It is a 75% wool, 25% nylon blend. It's not terribly soft, but seems to knit up pretty well, although I'm not an expert in the sock department. I bought all this yarn when Lewiscraft was going out of business and everything is on sale. The reason I didn't spray my hair on Wacky Hair day (because I have always secretly yearned for Navy Blue hair) is that I was called for a job interview! I have applied to a couple of places that are open evenings/weekends, to see if I could pick up a few hours a week at times when Stuart is at home with the kiddies. Last Friday, when off to Wal-Mart to do our weekly shop there, I took a resume and dropped it off. They called later that afternoon to set up an interview, and today I go for a 6 hour orientation. SIX HOURS! I'm sure I'll be thoroughly brainwashed by then. ;-) Now, I'm pleased that it has all happened so smoothly, and quickly, but I can not make myself get really excited about this job. It's good, it's just what I was looking for, and I have no problem with the actual work, but I have been struggling with the idea of "social responsibility" lately. I am not sure how working for Wal-Mart fits in with my new ideas of how I should be spending my time and money. I haven't got it all worked out in my head yet, but I've been thinking lately about the consequences of our consumerism as a whole, and wondering if I should be shopping and accumulating less, while spending a little more for quality, or independently produced goods. Sorry to sound so vague and unclear, but I guess that's just how I'm feeling today. I'm also a tad blue for other reasons I won't go into right now, so if you can, think happy, positive thoughts for me today, please! I could use all the help I can get!

Red and Black

2006-08-23T10:23:00.000-07:00

Here is my beautiful boy modeling my lastest Finished Object. Although it is for Christmas, I can not yet cross a number off the list, as I need to do another scarf and two hats out of this yarn for my step-dad and mum, and silly me included that all as one item on The List. It is knit in a K3, P3 pattern on one side, and K all on the other, which gives alternating bands of stocking stitch and garter stitch . The pattern was on the ball band of the yarn, which is Bernat Solo, and acrylic/polyester blend, which is machine washable and dryable. It took me 2 days to knit it up, which bodes well for my List. I am, however, getting redded and blacked out, and I think it's time to switch to something else for a bit. I will come back to this project after I finish something else. Note: Brian's hair is not always this peculiar colour. We declared today Wacky Hair Day, which has so far only involved spraying both big kids with that wash-out hair spray. There is talk of more, but they are now distracted with some art work, so perhaps they'll leave it at that, and not notice that I didn't spray my own hair.

Here is Katie's sock that I've been working on. I'm almost to the toe on sock #1. I've been picking it up here and there throughout my day, and working on it when I needed a break from the fluffy synthetic-ness of the scarf. I am in love with the colours, and fascinated with how they change as I knit along. Very soothing, especially since there is no red or black to be found.

Am I Getting Cocky?

2006-08-21T10:49:00.000-07:00

I spent yesterday morning basking in the glow of the finished mittens, and knitting up a pair of Fingerless Mitts for my mum with the left over yarn. There is still lots left, even enough for another pair of these. I couldn't believe how fast these knit up - I sat around my living room watching The Age of Innocence, and these were done by the time Mr. Archer staggered off at the end. I must confess, I've always wanted to read this book, and never have, so was pleased to see the movie on the TV. I loved the story, and was irritated by the ending. The pattern is from Weekend Knitting, and what I love most about it is that the pattern is more of a "recipe", modified for 3 different sizes, and 3 different weights of yarn. Please excuse the sorry photograph - I had a reluctant, cranky-pants photographer. (But do admire the chalk artwork on my drive - the little ones almost hope for rainfall, to give them a fresh canvas.) These mitts are comfortable to wear, and I can see myself this winter with a few pairs, just to wear around the house on the cold mornings. (Who am I kidding? That's every morning.) I fear, however, that I'm getting a bit cocky. The four months until Christmas is lulling me into a false sense of security. I say to myself, "I've finished two projects already, and it's only the end of August. I'll have no problem getting my list done in time. I can work on something else for a bit." We all know how untrue this is. If I buy into this kind of argument, the next thing you know it will be December 24th, and I'll be frantically knitting up a little pirate sweater, or seaming and stuffing a dolly. So. OK. Must focus. Back to work. Edited to add: I was at the library this morning when I realized that I had said the pattern came from Last-Minute Knitted Gifts. Apparently I have it on the brain, since that's completely wrong. The pattern came from Weekend Knitting.

They're Done, They're Done, They're Done!

2006-08-20T08:29:00.000-07:00

All right, all, join me in celebration at the happy moment of another Finished Object! I finished these last night, and ran around the living room, waving these mittens around and singing Ta-Da! Stuart and Jeannie just watched me in bemusement, and waited to start the movie until I'd sat down. I suppose I should be grateful for their patience. They could have just pressed Play, and looked around me!

I am very pleased with how these turned out (obviously). They just feel so... advanced, professional, like a grown-up knitter kind of thing to do. This could be because my Mother in law is a pretty expert knitter, and has kept my children in mittens for years. Or, it could be that I am simply easily impressed. Either way, I'm good. I'm good.

Particulars:

Pattern: Flap Top Mittens, from Handknit Holidays

Yarn: Galway Irish Worsted Knitting Wool, colours #620 and #09. You still can't see very well in the photo, but they're solid black, with a heathery red trim. One 100g skein of each, although there is naturally a significant amount of the red left. I think I may knit up some fingerless gloves for my mum with it.

Started: August 08, 2006

Finished: August 19, 2006

Modifications: I followed the pattern pretty much exactly, except for one small thing. When setting up the flap, you are instructed to knit, wrapping the yarn twice, and then next round you slip all those wraps onto a separate DPN. I used M1 instead, it just felt stronger somehow, and was easier for me to work with, and see what I was doing.

My Review: Definitely a good pattern. Fun, easy to knit, full of gratification. I will likely knit this again. In fact, family members and friends are already lining up. They just don't understand the idea of planning ahead for Christmas. Actually, these mittens are not a Christmas gift, they're a birthday gift for my step-father, who has his special day in October.

Sky and Stuff

2006-08-19T08:22:00.000-07:00

A clear, blue sky for a lovely Saturday, although it's not nearly as warm as the sky would make you thing. I believe the temperature went down to about 4 degrees C last night, which is just a little scary. This is my favourite tree. It may not look like anything special, but I can see it out my bedroom window, and I love to watch it move in the breeze, and hear the wind ruffle the leaves. Very soothing. It's not actually my tree, it belongs to my neighbors, and I am in perpetual slight fear that they will suddenly decide its an eyesore, or they need space, and chop it down. The evergreen next to it is looking healthy, a small miracle in a place where every evergreen in sight is being decimated by the Mountain Pine Beetle. The mittens are almost done. I'm so close I can taste it. All that's still to do is the left thumb. I thought I would finish last night, but we were watching RV, and I stopped working on the mitten once I finished the flap, and switched to Katie's sock. The movie was cute. All three big kids enjoyed it (babe was in bed), and I liked it except for the one thing that bothers me about almost every single movie and TV show out there today. The lack of respect show to the "father". It completely drives me crazy how rude the entire family can always be to the stupid dad who can't do anything right, and can't possibly function without his wife, who tolerates his idiocy because she loves him, or he's the father of her children, or simply because he brings home the bacon. I know, as a wife and mother, that I've felt these feelings, and had this reaction myself a time or two, but I'm not proud of them, and don't think they should be encouraged. I especially don't think they should be fed into the minds of children who mimic every single thing they see on the big black box. All right. Sorry. That's my rant of the day. Next topic: Reading. I've always been a voracious reader. I grew up reading the encyclopedia, Jane Eyre, Wuthering Heights, and anything else I could get my hands on. I am thoroughly enjoying the CraftLit podcast, in which we hear a few chapters of Pride and Prejudice. This summer, however, I have indulged in completely mindless reading. I am a sucker for any cheesy murder mystery, but have discovered two new authors I particularly enjoy. Joanne Fluke writes about a woman returned to her hometown to open a cookie shop. This one is particularly cheesy, which I love in that "I'm so superior, I could do better than that" way, and included some really wonderful cookie recipes. At my last visit to the library, I also found Monica Ferris (just a shelf or two up from Fluke), and am currently reading Crewel World, which is set in a needlework shop, and even includes some knitting and yarn content. What could be better than that?

Back to School Baking

2006-08-17T08:59:00.000-07:00

Since the back to school bells are calling, I have dusted off my recipe book, and started trying out lunch-box recipes. I attempted a home made granola bar earlier this week. The flavour is wonderful, but the finished product is too soft to actually send in a lunch. Really good mixed with some vanilla yogurt, though! If you know of one that works well, please share!

I came across this recipe a little while ago, and have been trying it out with different variations. Today's experiment: blueberry and raspberry, since that's what I have spoiling rapidly in my kitchen. I've been making these every day, trying to get back in the groove of things before school starts. I managed today without following the recipe, although I gave it a double check at the end, and realized I had forgotten the salt. The last few days, I've replaced half the oil with applesauce, and that seems to be working really well. I am always looking for ways to cut out the fat, and since I have two apple trees, applesauce (and any other apple recipe I can find) is in abundance. My next experiment is to try these with whole wheat flour.

My theory is this: if I can get really comfortable with the muffin making, I could stagger into the kitchen in the morning, mix up a batch, and then they can bake while I have my shower and get ready for the day. Then the kiddies can have a warm breakfast, or take fresh ones in their lunch.

Not much on the knitting front - I was about to bind off the second mitten last night, and realized I had made two rights. Sheesh! I know I know better than that - this is what happens when I don't pay attention to what I'm doing. Next task of the day (after I hang out the laundry, that is) - rip back to the beginning of the flap, and have a re-do.

International Scarf Exchange 3

2006-08-15T08:06:00.000-07:00

Thanks to info from Dorothy, I've gone and joined this exchange. I think that about gets me to my limit on exchanges for now, although I'm very pleased with it. It's similar to the stitch marker exchange, in that it's something fun that does not have a huge time or financial obligation. Thanks for the tip, Dorothy, I can't wait to get a partner. By the way, they are still taking sign ups, in case anyone out there is interested.

The Great Exchange

2006-08-14T11:36:00.000-07:00

I have watched with fascination the exchanges that take place in the knitting community, both officially and privately. People are exchanging yarn, secret packages, dishcloths, stitch markers, and on and on. Still feeling pretty new to this knitting game, I've watched and wondered, and enjoyed seeing all the special things that arrive in people's mail boxed around the world. A while ago, you may recall, I joined this exchange, both for the fun of this neat idea, and to motivate me to try this thing I've been wanting to do. Here is my first try, and a gift for blogless Kathy in PA. I've been getting it all together this weekend, and am taking my little parcel down to the post office this weekend. I wasn't sure how to package them, and ended up knitting a little Amulet Pouch to hold them. It's actually very cute, and I'm thinking more of these will be in my future. Mitten work is progressing, although I stopped yesterday to knit up the little bag. I've also paused to cast on for a little pair of socks for Gwenyth, as a refresher. I'm using Elann's Sock it To Me yarn, and they're coming along swimmingly, except I think they'll be far too large for her little feet. At least I know she'll grow into them. I haven't looked at socks for a while, but Katie has been asking for a pair. I thought I'd make Gwen the guinea pig, since her feet are so much smaller, and then move on to Miss Kate.

Saturday Sky

2006-08-12T14:36:00.000-07:00

Here is my Saturday Sky for Sandy: this is the view from out front of my house. We call this the cutbanks, and is a high hill along a river valley, cut away by the Fraser River below. More progress has been made on the mittens! The first mitten is completely finished, ends woven in and all, and I'm just about to the thumb gusset on the second. I am trying to really discipline myself with the gift knitting, especially since Jeannie has just added another project to my list: she is quite sure that Victoria would love, love, love a pair of legwarmers for Christmas, and we just spent an hour looking through my stash. There is a basic pattern in Weekend Knitting, which I'll likely use. I'm not positive we found anything perfect, although I have a few ideas. You know what this means: my gift count has moved to one down, eight to go. Suddenly, December doesn't feel so far away.

Fizzled Sizzle

2006-08-11T09:12:00.000-07:00

I don't think I mentioned this, but Miss Gwenyth decided to wean herself from the breast while we were camping. It was a tad sooner than I had planned, but whenever we sat down to nurse, she would drink for a moment or two, then look at me and say, "All done!" I didn't really mind, except for the fact that my measurement shrunk 2 inches in less than 2 weeks! Now, I have never been amply endowed in this department anyway, and nursing is about the only time in my life I've gotten to experience certain fun things in life, like cleavage. I was prepared for the shrinkage, but my knitting wasn't. Foolish Charity, I cast on for Sizzle based on my measurements at the time. Yes, I knew the nursing was coming to an end. Yes, I have weaned a baby before, and was prepared for the results. No, I didn't take this into account when I measured. Those measurements are so far off now, that a completed Sizzle would immediately become a big, loose, saggy sack. And the sexy low neckline? Not so sexy when there's nothing to show for it. When realization struck, I wrote emails in a panic, to the Knit List, and to the designer. I was hoping that I could rip back the front, re-knit it in a small, and then put it together with the larger back. No dice. Ah, well. I know that my own slightly perfectionist personality would never allow such a thing, but I was hoping for a solution that would allow me to keep the finished back, and not frog the whole darn thing. All the Christmas knitting I've been doing has helped take my mind off it, but it's still sitting there, looking at me with a sad little face. While I was reading Ruth's blog this morning, she mentioned something about seasonal knitting, and I realized that the seasons are changing (yes, I know, in Canada seasons change, swiftly - I was blocking it out), and I'd better get busy. If I return to it after the second mitten is done, there is still a chance I'll get to feel the sun on my arms once this year while wearing it. Hey, sometimes we get an Indian summer in late September. There's always hope, right?

Progress

2006-08-10T12:43:00.000-07:00

I've been working away at my Flap Top Mitten from Handknit Holidays, and am almost finished the first one. I had ordered some alpaca from Elann, and then decided it was too light a weight for these mittens. So, I went out and tracked down some Galway Irish Worsted Knitting Wool. With a name like that, you know it can't go wrong! (It even has a sort of shamrock on the ball band, which I think is a tad too cute.) You can't see it very well in the photo, but I'm using black for the main colour, with a heathered dark red/black for the wrist and trim on the flap. The wool is obviously not nearly as soft and squishy as the alpaca (which arrived today), but I'm sure it will be warm. Most likely, the wool makes for a more sturdy mitten, anyway. Now I have to decide what to do with the alpaca. I'm thinking maybe a pair of fingerless gloves for my mum. I've never made mittens before, and am feeling completely satisfied with myself because of this pattern. I read it through a few times, and thought there was no way I could manage it. Still, I'm making progress, and at every step completed, I say to my Wonderful Husband, "Look! I just made a thumb gusset!" (or whatever). Sadly, he is not nearly excited enough, so I'm hoping you'll share my joy. I've finished the actual mitten part, and am nearly done with the flap. Then it's just the thumb, and we're on to #2! Really, though, these mittens are a completely encouraging knit. They're small, so you get all this gratification, and halfway through, you have a finished object, which is always thrilling. For me, this pattern is a challenge, and I totally love doing something I've never done before, or am not really good at. It feels so good when you conquer it.

Yet Another Meme

2006-08-09T12:17:00.000-07:00

I picked this up today from Christine, so thought I'd share it with you. If this is your kind of thing, I'd love to read your responses. I think it's amazing to have these internet friends, and yet there are big gaps of knowledge about all of you. 1. FIRST NAME? Charity 2. WERE YOU NAMED AFTER ANYONE? No. My parents named me Charity Dawn, which means Love Awakening, and was very significant to them while expecting my arrival. 3. LAST CRY? Can't remember, which is finally rare for me. After a year of baby blues, I'm getting to the point where I can even look at sappy commercials on TV without shedding a few tears! 4. DO YOU LIKE YOUR HANDWRITING? Eh... 5. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE LUNCH MEAT? Rosemary Ham 6. KIDS? 3 marvelous blessings! 7. IF YOU WERE ANOTHER PERSON WOULD YOU BE FRIENDS WITH YOU? I like to think so, but who knows! Would I be a nice other person? 8. DO YOU HAVE A JOURNAL? This is it! 9. DO YOU USE SARCASM A LOT? Constantly. I'm not sure you always pick up on it, though, sarcasm in print can be tricky. 10. DO YOU STILL HAVE YOUR TONSILS? Yes. 11. WOULD YOU BUNGEE JUMP? No. This is about the only "extreme" thing I don't want to do. Anything else, I'll at least try! 12. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE CEREAL? Cocoa Puffs. I don't know if this is still the case, but when I was a kid, you couldn't get them in Canada. A friend from the States used to send a Christmas package every year, and always included a box. 13. DO YOU UNTIE YOUR SHOES WHEN YOU TAKE THEM OFF? Never. 14. DO YOU THINK YOU ARE STRONG? Used to be no, but the Hapkido is making me much stronger. 15. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ICE CREAM FLAVOR? Hard to choose, I like the ones with all the stuff in them, like Rocky Road. 16. SHOE SIZE? Used to be 7-1/2, now pretty firmly an 8. 17. WHAT IS THE LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT YOURSELF? The way I can't stop talking. It drives me crazy - inside, I know I'm talking too much, but I can't seem to make myself stop. 18. WHO DO YOU MISS THE MOST? My mum, who lives in Winnipeg. 19. DO YOU WANT EVERYONE TO SEND THIS BACK TO YOU? I'd love to know more about all of you! 20. WHAT COLOR PANTS AND SHOES ARE YOU WEARING? Bare feet, denim capris. 21. LAST THING YOU ATE? An Instant Breakfast drink. 22. WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO RIGHT NOW? Kids playing, lunch cooking, Martha Stewart doing something wonderful. 23. IF YOU WERE A CRAYON, WHAT COLOR WOULD YOU BE? Ocean blue (is that a crayon colour? If not, it should be!) 24. FAVORITE SMELL? Fresh bread baking. 25. WHO WAS THE LAST PERSON YOU TALKED TO ON THE PHONE? My friend, Sarah. 26. THE FIRST THING YOU NOTICE ABOUT PEOPLE YOU ARE ATTRACTED TO? The eyes have it, here. 27. DO YOU LIKE THE PERSON WHO SENT THIS TO YOU? I do. 28. FAVORITE DRINK? I drink tea all day and evening long. 29. FAVORITE SPORT? To watch? Not so much. To participate in? Hapkido (does that count as a sport?) 30. EYE COLOR? Brown. 31. HAT SIZE? No idea. 32. DO YOU WEAR CONTACTS? Occasionally. My eyes tend to be really dry, so they can get uncomfortable. 33. FAVORITE FOOD? This amazing Persian chicken dish, that I don't know how to spell, with pomegranates and walnuts, or lasagna. 34. SCARY MOVIES OR HAPPY ENDING? Has to have a happy ending. On my camping trip, I read Message in a Bottle, and was completely incensed at the ending. What a waste of time. We get enough unpleasantness in reality. 35. LAST MOVIE YOU WATCHED AT THE MOVIE THEATER? Can not for the life of me remember. 36. WHAT COLOR SHIRT ARE YOU WEARING? Striped with shades of blue/turquoise. 37. SUMMER OR WINTER? Autumn (Yes, I have to be difficult) 38. HUGS OR KISSES? I like to hug a lot. 39. FAVORITE DESSERT? Chocolate is good. 40. WHO IS MOST LIKELY TO RESPOND? No idea. 41. LEAST LIKELY TO RESPOND?Again, no idea. 42. WHAT BOOKS ARE YOU READING? I'm listening to Pride and Prejudice on CraftLit, and reading a book by T Davis Bunn, can't remember the title. Also have a few knitting books from the library, and one on crochet. 43. WHAT'S ON YOUR MOUSE PAD? One of those little gel pad wrist supports. 44. WHAT DID YOU WATCH LAST NIGHT ON TV? I didn't. 45. FAVORITE SOUNDS? The woods at night when I'm camping, the sound of the ocean. 46. ROLLING STONE OR BEATLES? Beatles. Although I wasn't allowed to listen to secular music growing up, so have never formed a great attachment. 47. THE FURTHEST YOU'VE BEEN FROM HOME? Moscow 48. WHAT'S YOUR SPECIAL TALENT? I guess I'll have to go with knitting. 49. WHERE WERE YOU BORN? Winkler, Manitoba, Canada 50. Who sent this to you? Chrissy

Cross One off the List

2006-08-08T10:41:00.000-07:00

One down, only seven to go! Here is the Birthday Poncho. Since Jeannie doesn't get it until her birthday at the beginning of next month, I can't show you a modeled photo, but there it is all spread out on my dining room table. Here are the particulars: Pattern: Chunky Lace Poncho I understand the idea of naming chunky-weight yarn (because it's, well, chunky), but I still object to it's use in the title of an item of clothing. I don't know about you, but I sure don't want to be putting anything on my body called "Chunky". This is for Jeannie, who is anything but chunky, so I'm sure she won't mind. Yarn: Patons Shetland Chunky, Colour # 3038, 75% acrylic/25% wool, 3 skeins Started: July 12, 2006 Finished: August 06, 2006 Modifications: The pattern called for 3 skeins of Wool-Ease Chunky, and I used the Patons instead. The size small called for 48 inches of lace pattern, and I started to run out of yarn, so stopped at about 45 inches. Jeannie is pretty small and slight, so I have no worries about it fitting comfortably around her shoulders. This was a pretty fast knit, and the lace pattern was very easy to memorize. I am not crazy about the lace pattern itself, but I am one of those girly-girls who like pretty, lacy things. This is just right for someone who likes the look of lace without it getting too feminine or fancy. Here's a closer look at the lace: It is supremely satisfying to have finished another object, especially one that is from my gift list. I stopped by a LYS today, and picked up some Galway wool, and cast on for the mittens for my step-father. It's been a while since I've knit anything in the round, so I'm not convinced how smoothly it will go, but I'm so pumped at the progress I'm making, that I'm tackling it anyway. If I keep it up, I may have a chance to knit myself a sweater before winter is over!

Mount Robson Sky

2006-08-05T10:28:00.000-07:00

Since I'm finally able to post a picture, my Saturday Sky photo is one I took on our trip. Here's Mount Robson, the highest elevation in the Canadian Rockies. After many years of traveling back and forth along this highway, this is actually the first time we've had a clear view, traveling East. We generally drive East at night, or it is cloudy, and we can't see it. This time, though, it was perfect. Sometimes when I see the pictures, it's hard to believe I actually live here - I'm so blessed!

Knitting is progressing on the Birthday Poncho. I'm almost finished the second ball, and have one more to go. Jeannie called last night, and is still not sure when they are coming home, so if I work at it, I may get it finished up before her return. It's pretty tricky making a gift for someone without them seeing it. I must have been in the "black hole" that the Yarn Harlot talks about, since it didn't seem to be getting anywhere, and then all of a sudden, there was length! A thrilling moment, to be sure. Even my Wonderful Husband was impressed, and he's a pretty mellow guy.

Gift Knitting

2006-08-04T12:01:00.000-07:00

During my trip, I did a lot of planning and dreaming about knitting projects to come. As I started to think about my plans for the upcoming holidays, I started to get a bit nervous. I believe the bulk of my knitting will now be directed at gift knitting, at least until January. Of course, if I finish my list ahead of time *insert hilarious crazy laughter here*, I can always work on something for me. Here's the list: 1. Birthday Poncho. You know I've already started this, and am almost to the halfway mark. The birthday this is intended for is in September, so I don't have that much time, but I'm feeling pretty confident. 2. Flap Top Mittens, from Handknit Holidays. These, I hope, will be a birthday gift for my step-dad, who celebrates his happy day in early October. With allowances for Canada Post, who are not the most speedy folk, it should be done and gone by the end of September. Haven't even bought yarn for these yet - oh darn, I suppose that means I'll have to do some yarn shopping. 3. Pirate Sweater, Adorable Knits for Tots. I've already told you all about the yarn I picked up at Make 1 Yarns for this. I have cast on, but am only just past the ribbing for the back. This is Brian's Christmas gift, and I'm pretty excited to watch his face when he sees the skull on the front. 4. Pig-Tailed Dolly, from Weekend Knitting. Again, no yarn (the sacrifices I make for my children are amazing, I will be forced to pick up yarn for this project, too). This is for Gwenyth for Christmas, because she loves a dolly more than anything. I don't hold out any hope that the one I make her will be more loved than the cloth one my mum gave her at her birth, but I'm sure she'll enjoy it, anyway. We also have a pushchair that once belonged to Katie, so plan to present the dolly to Gwen in that. 5. Katie is getting a plush, sleeveless hooded pullover, but without the motif. She's a girl who likes the plain things, and I'm determined to make her something she'll actually wear and enjoy on a regular basis. I bought the yarn for this, Patons Be Mine in light blue, when Lewiscraft was closing out. 6. Hee hee, I thought I was done. How silly of me. Next up is a matching set of hats and scarves for my mum and step-dad. They're very cute, still very in love, and like cute things, like matching. Yarn safely in basket, pattern there too, just need time and desire to get it done. 7. A cabled, lace scarf for my mother in law. I bought the most beautiful Debbie Bliss Alpaca Silk, and really hope she loves it. She's the old school kind of knitter, who works mostly with acrylic, and I'm thinking she might not appreciate the lovely yarn, but I'll still love working with it. 8. I would really love to knit up a teddy bear for my step-mother. She has a huge teddy bear collection, (I was checking it out during our visit) but not a single knitted bear. No pattern, no real plan, either, just a nice idea. It may stay a nice idea this year, too, since my list is starting to make me feel queasy. I've been working away on the birthday poncho, not because I'm feeling stressed about it, but because the recipient was called away for a very sad family emergency, and I'm taking the opportunity of doing it while she's out of the house. I don't know if I have ever talked about my crazy blended family - my husband was married before to a lady with 2 children. He thus has 2 step-children, both of whom are older than I am. His step-son doesn't live here, and doesn't speak to him at all. His step-daughter, however, is here in Prince George. Last spring, Jeannie went through a separation, and moved into our basement suite with Stuart's granddaughter, Victoria. Victoria, obviously, does not call me "Grandma", although she does call Stuart "Grandpa", which makes for some very funny looks when he & I take the kids out. We love them very much, are happy to have them here, but it makes for some interesting family dynamics at times. It works well for the most part, largely due to the fact that we have different living spaces. Although we eat most evening and weekend meals together, and spend a lot of our free time together, it's important to have our own space, too. Victoria is 6 months older than Katie, and they are the best of friends. Brian is surrounded by females, but is surviving admirably. The baby is spoiled rotten, since there are now 6 people in the house to dote on her. Long story short (too late), the poncho is for Jeannie. Phew, what a story!

Rough-ish Seas

2006-08-03T10:15:00.000-07:00

You know, don't you, that when you go through a time of peaceful tranquility, that rough seas are soon to appear? We left Drumheller happy and relaxed, and headed off to Devon, which is a little town just south of Edmonton. We had reserved a campsite there, and I was looking forward to more camping, and more shopping. Disaster struck. We checked into the campground, and drove off to our site. And drove around. And drove around. On our third tour, we found it - a 12' x 15' scrap of grass crammed in between two motor homes. We might have been able to set up the tent trailer itself, although the awning of the monster beside us would have extended over our roof, but there was no where to park the truck. Very disheartening. There were no other spots available, so our money was refunded to us, and we drove off, not quite sure what to do next. We ended up at the west end of Edmonton, and decided to try for a hotel. We stopped at one - booked. Another - booked. A third - also booked, but they rang another inn that had a room for us, for the paltry sum of $190 a night. Yikes. In a fit of desperation, with crying baby and hot, grumpy children as motivators, we started to drive over there, when Stuart saw the Hilton. He stopped. I told him he was crazy - if this little inn was so expensive, what did he think we would find at the Hilton? I went in and told my sad tale, and Orville, the most wonderful guest services manager in the world, hooked us up with a lovely room for $139, bought us breakfast for the next day, came outside to help us park the tent trailer, gave the kids cookies, and told us how to get to the mall. Seriously, I have never seen such excellent customer service, and it couldn't have come at a better time. When he offered us breakfast, tears came to my eyes. The room was great, with a fridge and a microwave, there was a nice pool, and a relaxing hot tub. Bliss, bliss, bliss. We stayed not just that night, but the next as well, and it was actually a really nice way to end a camping trip. We all got clean, relaxed, and Stuart and the kids got a TV fix. When we left for home, the plan was to stop in Hinton for an overnight visit with Stuart's sister, who lives there. She had conveniently decided to rip apart her spare room, and take apart the spare bed to sand and re-stain, on the one weekend out of the year we had asked to visit. Yes, she knew we were coming. Yes, we had given them lots of notice. Yes, her husband has stayed with us once a month for the last 6 years, on his way to work at a local mine. I don't know, she's just like that, I guess. I'm still a bit put out about the whole thing. That and the fact that my nephew took Brian off to play some video game that involves throwing cats and watching them splat while I was in the washroom. Why does a child of any age have a game like that? Again, I don't know. They're just like that. So, we headed home, and in the long run, I was so happy to be in my own bed that night, I didn't mind too much. I felt bad for the kids, as they weren't expecting to sit for 8 hours of driving that day, but we let them watch 3 DVDs during the trip, which seemed to make up for it. Anyway, in Edmonton, we got to do some fun shopping. We did our annual Ikea visit. I actually kept myself pretty reined in, and had made a list of things I wanted, so it went pretty smoothly. We were happily surprised that both big kids were able to go into the kids area to play, so Stuart & I got to enjoy some just-us-plus-the-baby time. That was nice. We carried on like teenagers, with no one to get grossed out, or laugh guiltily, 'cause they sort of know what's going on. I also went to the Indigo bookstore, and came home with a bounty: Weekend Knitting, Handknit Holidays, and Knitting Rules. I also found a few Christmas presents, an old Lindsey Davis book I've read but is worth re-reading, and a book of English Mystery writers, which I'm looking forward to checking out. Katie found something called Pirateology, and Brian came home with a Little Einsteins CD. Stuart had his fun, too, although I can't remember what he ended up with, apart from a couple of new astronomy magazines. We do love the bookstore. Afterwards, we spent a couple of hours at Chucke Cheese. We had never been there, and had a lot of fun. I always imagined that place as a sort of crazy, noisy, bratty hell, but it wasn't too bad, and gave the kiddies a chance to blow off some steam. We also wandered through the West Edmonton Mall, let Katie and Brian each take a ride in the amusement park, looked at the Pirate Ship, watched the skaters at the ice rink, and found a place to get Katie's ears pierced. Very thrilling. I also bought Stuart's birthday present, since it's coming up shortly, and he's very pleased to have the complete DVD collection of Stargate SG-1, seasons 1-8. I am now trying to convince him that we could cut the cable, and he could watch this instead, but so far, no such luck. So, that's the trip. We had fun, I'm glad to be home. I'm about halfway through Knitting Rules, which is good, but a tad lighter than I thought it would be, and so very, very pleased to have both Handknit Holidays and Weekend Knitting. I've been longing for HH for months, since I checked it out from the library. It was the first pattern book I'd seen that I though I would use enough to warrant owning. I spent hours in the bookstore deciding on what else to buy. It came down to a choice between WK and Last Minute Knitted Gifts, but I went with WK, and hope to get the other one next time, maybe for Christmas. I think my first project will be the flap-top mittens from HH for my step-dad, and I want to make the knitted dolly from WK for Gwenyth for Christmas. So much to knit, so little time. I'd better get busy.

Still Waters

2006-08-02T12:23:00.000-07:00

Blogger still isn't co-operating - I've heard good things about both Typepad and WordPress. I may have to look into my options if things don't sort out soon. Our visit to Drumheller was much more peaceful than the hustle and bustle of Calgary. We stayed in a really nice campground, where live about 50 bunnies. They were everywhere, but not so much that they were a nuisance, just cute. The campground had little feeding stations set up here and there, which quickly became the kids' favourite place to hang out. We purposely set a slower pace during our time in the Badlands - we were all starting to feel a bit stressed and cranky, and since the heat was even worse in Drumheller, we figured we could all use a break. We spent a couple of hours at the museum, but called it a day when the kids looked like they'd rather hang out and play with the computers than actually look around. We went back the next day for a fossil casting session, which was one of the coolest things we did on the whole trip. The staff person leading the group of kids was excellent, and it was nice to do something "hands on" after walking through the museum the day before. We also spent some time wandering around downtown, playing in the giant fountain, and drove to see and hike around the hoo doos, a natural rock formation. I was most pleased to sit for an hour or two at the laundry facilities in the campground, since they had an outdoor picnic table. I was able to sit and knit the whole time, which was the longest chance I had to knit, apart from in the truck. I also met a really nice lady from Vancouver Island, and we had a nice visit. She doesn't knit, but is a quilter, and complimented me on my consistent, even stitches. How nice to hear!

Smooth Sailing

2006-08-01T11:08:00.000-07:00

I know what you've all been waiting for, and I'm finally getting there. Make 1 held the drop spindle spinning class on Saturday morning, and I was there bright and early. I am going to gush, so be prepared. I LOVED this place! The three ladies are so friendly, so helpful, so knowledgeable, so fun, so informed, so good at explaining and teaching, I could go on and on even more. Sadly, I have no photos, as Stuart took the camera with him and the kiddies, but I was so pleased to be left on my own there for a few hours, I didn't complain a bit. The class was excellent. I felt all thumbs, and I'm quite certain that my yarn was the least professional of the bunch, but I thoroughly enjoyed myself, anyway. I was so happy to be there, and surrounded by yarn and people who love yarn, that I just couldn't stop talking (my tendency to be long-winded follows me everywhere - don't ever ask me about my day unless you really want to hear). Even with all my chatter, I still managed to spin my yarn. We started with dyed silk. They call them handkerchiefs, and it was amazing how it felt to separate out a thin layer, and s-t-r-e-t-c-h it out, and start spinning! It came out very, very fine, and so pretty. There is a spinning/weaving place here that sells a bit of yarn, and I'm planning to go down there this week and see if she sells anything like this. Too much fun. After we spun our silk, we did some merino roving. This was trickier, but still fun. My yarn turned out very thick and thin, but I think with patience and experience I could achieve some consistency. At the end Suzen taught us to ply the two yarns together, and it came out so pretty. The wool was dyed in a purpley colourway, and the silk was pinks and yellows, so together it looked just like a sunset. The whole process was extremely satisfying and peaceful. Very therapeutic, and I can easily see slipping into the zone while spinning. Definitely something I am going to try to keep at. Once class was over, I was set free in the store. I had asked Stuart to come late, and give me some time, because I had so much I wanted to see and feel. I got my hands on all sorts of wonderful yarns I had heard of but never seen before, like Malabrigo, Lorna's Laces, Blue Sky, KidSilk Haze, and ArtYarns. The women there were so very patient with me; Sandra gave me a yarn tour, letting me touch, squeeze, and fondle to my heart's content. I didn't actually purchase that much - I bought some Noro to make myself a Booga Bag this winter. I'm looking forward to trying felting. I bought one incredibly soft skein of baby alpaca in a lovely aqua/turquoise, that I was planning on making into Knit and Tonic's Dream Swatch, but now that I have cut off all my hair, I may have to rethink it. We'll see. Lastly, Suzen and Amy helped me find a yarn for the Pirate Sweater, by Zoe Mellor, that I'm making for Brian for Christmas. We went with GGH Goa, which is a machine washable cotton/acrylic blend. The pattern calls for navy blue for the body, with a white intarsia skull and cross-bones (but it's smiling, so not so scary), and red and white striped sleeves. I wasn't terribly thrilled about the colours, and Suzen helped me choose a lighter blue for the body, with a bone colour for the skull, and chocolate brown for the stripes. I've stalled on Sizzle (tell you all about it later), so cast on for this last night, and it's knitting up really nicely. The whole experience was amazing, and if you are ever anywhere near Calgary, or can get there for any reason, do not miss this place. It's wonderful, and I can't speak highly enough of the store, the staff and the product. Also, if you can't get there, they offer free shipping for purchases over $30, and have a stock list available on their website. Do check them out! That night, my dad & step-mom, my uncle and aunt, and my own crew took me out for a birthday dinner, complete with one of those embarrassing moments where the whole staff sings to you, and someone is screaming your name at the top of his lungs. That's the downer with the short hair - everyone could see my brick red ears. Good food, though. Next day, we braved the Calgary Zoo. The temperatures, like so many other places, were extreme, so we went first thing in the morning when they opened. It was already 25 degrees C at 9:30 in the morning, and when we left a few hours later, it was 36. Yikes. We spent that afternoon shopping, more for the air conditioning than anything else. I was met with the happy surprise, when trying on clothes, that the Hapkido has helped me drop one clothing size. Very exciting for me - it's taken a long time to get here. Monday, we went to the Calgary Science Centre. For some reason, most people we spoke to were pretty unenthusiastic about it, but we totally loved it. They had a great area called WOWTown, dedicated to preschoolers, with a small area for toddlers. The main area was dedicated to the older kids, and this summers' exhibit was all about bikes. Everything was interactive, and we loved that aspect of it. There was nothing the kids couldn't touch, try, examine, play with. Last year, when we went to the Canada Science and Technology Museum in Ottawa, we were disappointed with how many things were off limits. All in all, we had a completely lovely time in Calgary. We had a nice time visiting family, and really enjoyed the city. I don't think I would like to live in such a large city, but there was an amazing feeling of youth and growth and prosperity about the place that was appealing.

Anchors Away

2006-07-31T08:43:00.000-07:00

You're right, the beauty of blogging is that I can go on and on and on, and you don't have to sit there with a bored expression on your face, waiting for it to be over. If what I have to share is uninteresting to you, you can skip down, or move on altogether. It's quite nice, actually. Here's my first installment: We left Prince George on Thursday, July 20th. Because I am an extreme and detailed planner, we mapped out our route ahead of time, and made the appropriate reservations at the various campsites we decided to stay at. My Wonderful Husband Stuart had to work on Thursday, but arranged to leave early, so we hit the road at about 3pm, and drove to Mount Robson Provincial Park. Mount Robson is the highest in the Canadian Rockies, and is terribly beautiful. Our stay there was lovely, and was the only "real camping" we did during our trip. We were surrounded by trees, the smell of pine, and sat around a campfire, eating smokies and toasting (or incinerating) marshmallows. We picked flowers and wore them in our hair, and chose flower-child names for each of us. Mine is Ocean. It was peaceful and wonderful, and I was reluctant to leave. Next time, we'll definitely plan to be there a tad longer. Friday morning dawned clear and blue; we headed off to Jasper National Park, and traveled down through the icefields. I must confess, I have journeyed along the highway between Prince George and Jasper so often, that I no longer am breathless at the sight. It is sad that I can be so conditioned, especially since I grew up on the Prairies, and when I first moved out here, I lived in a daily state of awe. Taking the road through the icefields was a different story. I have been through there once before, as a child, and clearly remember the amazing feelings and thoughts I experienced at the sight. I felt so humbled, so close to God, so tiny. The feelings were all there, waiting for me. A new addition to my thoughts, though, was the perspective of a knitter. As I looked at the hills, the trees, the water, I could see it all knitted. The textures were lovely, and I wanted to reach out my hand and run it along the treetops, which looked like chunky boucle, or a soft, lovely eyelash yarn. The mountain peaks were a grey Lopi, and the water was a clear, soft turquoise silk. Being still fairly new to the knitting world, this was a new and interesting experience for me. I have never looked at things, people, or nature in this way. I think part of it is Ruth's influence on me - her way of looking at colours and patterns around her has delighted and surprised and educated me. The weather could not have co-operated more, especially since we have an air-conditioned vehicle. It was clear, without a cloud in the sky, and very hot. I think the average as we drove was about 35 degrees C. We stopped for ice cream once, and sat in the shade of a tree, and just enjoyed. Then we drove on to Banff, which is, like Jasper, both a National Park and a town. We all needed a break at that point, so we braved the extremely busy town streets, and found a parking space that could accommodate both the truck and tent trailer. The town is meant to look quaint, and is lovely in many ways, but I was a touch disappointed at the commercialism. I suppose it's necessary, and it pays for the park and the roads, but it was still a bit... hokey. Then I changed tack completely, and dove straight into the commercial beast, when Stuart spotted a Lush store. That is one of my favourite places, apart from a yarn store, to shop, and I was very excited. I stocked up on some essential items, and bought a few gifts. We had a meal, and then packed everyone up for the short jog to our campground just outside of Calgary. Once we had the tent trailer set up, and everyone had used the facilities, I cajoled Stuart into driving me to the mall so I could cut off my hair. I had forgotten that hairstyles and camping don't mix, and couldn't take it a moment longer. I used to wear my hair pixie-short, and so had never experienced the hassles of bad camping hair. I've been trying to grow it out for the last while, and was almost, but not quite to the place where I could tie it up in a ponytail or a clip;I'm now back to square one. The worst part was that the hair stylist didn't do at all what I asked her to, but it made the rest of the trip much more comfortable for me, so it was worth it. I'll start growing it out again now, I guess. I didn't really have the opportunity to camp much as a child. I think we tried it once or twice while traveling, to save on hotel costs, but the four of us were crammed into a 2 man tent that I "won" from a walk-a-thon, and next day we were up with the birds to pack up and hit the road. Stuart introduced me to camping a few years ago, and I was completely unprepared for how much I would love it. The joke in my family has always been that my idea of camping is to throw a sleeping bag on a hotel bed, and I will confess to earning the title "High Maintenance" a time or two. Camping wasn't at all what I expected, and I love it. I try to go as much as I can, and always have fun, rain or shine. However, living in Northern British Columbia, we camp in the woods, or at a Provincial Park. There are lots of trees, lots of space, and generally lots of privacy. Once we hit Calgary, I realized there was another world of camping out there. The place we stayed was like a camping resort for families. There were so many conveniences: swimming pool, mini-golf, playground, laundry, games room, even a little store (just in case you forgot something essential, like Kraft dinner). There were no trees to speak of , and very little privacy. It was fun, just not what I was used to. I missed the campfires, the smell of nature, watching my children tromp off into the bush to explore. I didn't miss outhouses, no showers, and the risk of bears, though, so I suppose it was a trade off. OKC: I did actually knit a bit while we were driving on Friday. I worked on Sizzle, which is stocking stitch, and pretty mindless, as long as I kept track of the decreases and increases. I'm not that fast of a knitter, especially while we're driving, but it comforted me to have it in my hands while we traveled. Final Note: I'm very frustrated with Blogger. I wrote this post this morning, and have been trying all day to add some pictures, with no luck. I'm posting without the photos now, but will try to go back and edit later, if I ever find it's working again.

Safe Harbour

2006-07-30T10:10:00.000-07:00

No matter how much you enjoy your travels, there is something magical about returning home. There is just nothing on earth like your own bed, a nice cup of tea in your own cup, or curling up in your own chair. We made it safe and sound Saturday night, and I am buried in unpacking, laundry, and crazy children who need to be put back on their routines. We had a wonderful time, I didn't get nearly as much knitting done as I would have liked or hoped, it was hot and sunny and exciting. I haven't decided how to tell you about my travels... my tendency is to always tell a big long story about everything, but I feel perhaps people get impatient with my long-winded tales. What do you think? Long story, or short?

A Camping We Will Go

2006-07-19T13:15:00.000-07:00

We're loaded to the gunwales, fed, reasonably clean, and ready to go! We plan on doing a bit of a circuit trip. We're driving, towing our tent trailer, from Prince George to Mount Robson Provincial Park. Next day off to Calgary, going down through the ice fields. I'm looking forward to that, as I haven't been that way since I was a young girl, and our kids have never been. Although our main reason for going to Calgary is to visit family, I must admit that what I am most looking forward to is a visit to Make 1 Yarns, where I am taking a drop spindle spinning class, and engaging in a bit of a yarn frenzy. I have a huge list written out, and have been discretely suggesting to friends and family that CA$H would be a great birthday gift, so I can add to my stash. My birthday is this Friday, and my increase-my-stash-without-impacting-the-family-budget sneaky plan seems to be working. We also plan to spend a few days in Drumheller, Alberta, and make a visit to Royal Tyrrell Museum where dinosaurs and all good palaeontological (don't you just love that word?) things lurk. We'll stop in Edmonton for a bit of shopping, and then drag ourselves home through Jasper. It sounds like a whirl of activity, and I'm sure we'll come home much more tired than we are leaving, not to mention filthy. We plan to return Sunday the 30th of August, but may delay it a day or two if we're just having too much fun and excitement. I am taking along the birthday poncho, as well as Sizzle (which I really, really want to call Sozzle, since that's what my fingers want to type). I'm looking forward to all that knitting time in the truck, as well as at various campsites, and have great and grandiose plans for all that I will accomplish. Look for progress upon my return.

Tankless No Longer

2006-07-17T20:48:00.000-07:00

I'm not sure what part of my personality drives me when it comes to projects. I frantically finished up Katie's tank top so that I could start on Sizzle, and then immediately focused on Tank Girl instead. Particulars: Pattern: Tank Girl, from Stitch 'n Bitch Yarn: TLC Cotton Plus, about 2 (and a bit) balls Needle Size: 5.5mm Started: June 27, 2006 Finished: July 16, 2006 Photo credit: Miss Katie took this for me, and very pleased she was to be using the camera, including the zoom. I quite like this pattern, I feel very strong and broad shouldered in it. That may not be good for everyone, but it is good for me, as I have fairly wide hips. A bit of balance is always nice. I finished up on Sunday, including weaving in ends and blocking. I can see a *glaring* mistake, where I forgot to cast off 6 stitches on each end before decreasing for the armholes on one side, but it feels fine regardless. The non-knitters in my family couldn't tell, but I'm sure you could. It's satisfying, anyway, to have it done, and I've made some progress on Sizzle since. On a completely unrelated note: When I am writing a post, and use the spell checker Blogger provides, can you guess what alternative for knitter comes up? Janitor! What's that about?

Party Girl

2006-07-16T10:44:00.000-07:00

The Party: Invites went all round to friends and family. The roll call ended up including the 7 of us from our house, Gwen's Nanny & Poppa, Auntie and cousin, and some good friends with their daughter. In my small house, 14 people constitute a major event. The Meal: I cooked up a mess o' ribs during the afternoon. To be clear, I do not cook. At all. My Wonderful Husband is the chef of the family, and he really prefers me to stay out of his kitchen. Sadly, he had to work yesterday, which left the food prep to me. Kind eaters claimed that you would never know how useless I feel in the kitchen after tasting the ribs. I actually quite enjoy baking, and other food pursuits, just not the cooking part. We rounded the meal out with potato and green salad, coleslaw and chips and dip. My dining room and kitchen looked afterwards like it had been swarmed by a hoard of locusts, so I'll call it a success. The Cake: Here is my super duper rubber ducky cake. Just a simple white cake, "iced" in blue whipped cream. I know it looks more green, and truth be told, I thought it looked a bit greenish myself, but friends and family all swear it was a lovely, watery blue. Gwenyth seized a rubber duck from the top of the cake, so we didn't have a chance to get a good picture of just the cake, but at least she really enjoyed it. The Gifts: Being a charming and thoughtful baby, Gwenyth spent a great deal of time admiring the cards and wrapping jobs. In fact, she couldn't have cared less what was in the package, but was quite taken with all the sparkly baby animals and tissue paper. After the fuss was over, she proved herself to be her mother's daughter by returning to her all-time favourite toy of all: Yarn!

A Lick and A Promise

2006-07-14T21:40:00.000-07:00

When I was a little girl, and a rainbow appeared in the sky, my mother used it as a teaching opportunity. She would tell me about the Bible story of Noah, and how the rainbow was set in the sky as a reminder of God's promise to his people. This beautiful Saturday Sky reminded me of that. It feels like my whole life is just getting a lick and a promise today. Gwenyth is turning 1 on Tuesday, so we're having a birthday party get-together tonight. Poor Gwen! I remember when Katie was a baby. Her first birthday was a major deal. Even when Brian turned 1, we had a party, I made a snazzy caterpillar cake, and all was good. Last week a girlfriend asked me what I was doing for Gwen's big day. My answer? "Oh, yeah, I guess I should do something about that..." So, she's getting a lick and a promise of a cake, and my house is getting a lick and a promise of a cleaning. If I'm lucky, I'll get in a lick and a promise for my knitting, too. (I'm rounding the bend on Tank Girl. I'm at the arm hole decreases on the second half, and hope to have it done this weekend. Unless, that is, I decide I have to re-knit the back. Still trying to make up my mind on that one.)

Just When I Get Where I Want To Be....

2006-07-13T18:28:00.000-07:00

I go ahead and start something completely different. Crazy, I know, but I was looking at my knitting projects to come, and decided to start on this, for an upcoming birthday gift. I'm not in a big panic yet to get it done, but I know how fast those deadlines can come up. I do plan on taking it on our camping holiday next week, so I'm sure I'll make a lot of progress while we're away. I'm using Patons Shetland Chunky, in a grey/dark rose ragg. Here's my progress so far:

It's a super fast knit, and made even nicer with bulky yarn that feels pretty good in my hands, and an attractive, but still easy lace pattern. I think my friend will really love it - I thought of her as soon as I saw this yarn. One of my absolute favorite things about knitting is making gifts for people I love.

I have cast on for Sizzle, but am still on the seed stitch border. I'm using KnitPicks Shine Sport, because I had it in my stash. I swatched on both US size 5 and 6, and got gauge with the size 6. Obviously, I had to cast on with size 5, just to make things difficult for myself.

A List

2006-07-11T09:16:00.000-07:00

I got this list of stuff from The Knitting Doctor and thought I'd post it - I am a real sucker for things like this, and love reading other people's. This one is pretty easy; you bold the items you have done: 01. Bought everyone in the bar a drink 02. Swam with wild dolphins 03. Climbed a mountain 04. Taken a Ferrari for a test drive 05. Been inside the Great Pyramid 06. Held a tarantula 07. Taken a candlelit bath with someone 08. Said 'I love you' and meant it 09. Hugged a tree 10. Bungee jumped 11. Visited Paris 12. Watched a lightning storm at sea 13. Stayed up all night long and saw the sun rise 14. Seen the Northern Lights 15. Gone to a huge sports game 16. Walked the stairs to the top of the leaning Tower of Pisa 17. Grown and eaten your own vegetables 18. Touched an iceberg 19. Slept under the stars 20. Changed a baby's diaper 21. Taken a trip in a hot air balloon 22. Watched a meteor shower 23. Gotten drunk on champagne 24. Given more than you can afford to charity 25. Looked up at the night sky through a telescope 26. Had an uncontrollable giggling fit at the worst possible moment 27. Had a food fight 28. Bet on a winning horse 29. Asked out a stranger 30. Had a snowball fight 31. Screamed as loudly as you possibly can 32. Held a lamb 33. Seen a total eclipse 34. Ridden a roller coaster 35. Hit a home run 36. Danced like a fool and not cared who was looking 37. Adopted an accent for an entire day 38. Actually felt happy about your life, even for just a moment 39. Had two hard drives for your computer 40. Visited all 50 states 41. Taken care of someone who was drunk 42. Had amazing friends 43. Danced with a stranger in a foreign country 44. Watched wild whales 45. Stolen a sign 46. Backpacked in Europe 47. Taken a road-trip 48. Gone rock climbing 49. Midnight walk on the beach 50. Gone sky diving 51. Visited Ireland 52. Been heartbroken longer then you were actually in love 53. In a restaurant, sat at a stranger's table and had a meal with them 54. Visited Japan 55. Milked a cow 56. Alphabetized your cds 57. Pretended to be a superhero 58. Sung karaoke 59. Lounged around in bed all day 60. Posed nude in front of strangers 61. Gone scuba diving 62. Kissed in the rain 63. Played in the mud 64. Played in the rain 65. Gone to a drive-in theater 66. Visited the Great Wall of China 67. Started a business 68. Fallen in love and not had your heart broken 69. Toured ancient sites 70. Taken a martial arts class 71. Played D&D for more than 6 hours straight 72. Gotten married 73. Been in a movie 74. Crashed a party 75. Gotten divorced 76. Gone without food for 5 days 77. Made cookies from scratch 78. Won first prize in a costume contest 79. Ridden a gondola in Venice 80. Gotten a tattoo 81. Rafted the Snake River 82. Been on television news programs as an "expert" 83. Got flowers for no reason 84. Performed on stage 85. Been to Las Vegas 86. Recorded music 87. Eaten shark 88. Had a one-night stand 89. Gone to Thailand 90. Bought a house 91. Been in a combat zone 92. Buried one of your parents 93. Been on a cruise ship 94. Spoken more than one language fluently 95. Performed in Rocky Horror. 96. Raised children 97. Followed your favorite band/singer on tour 98. Created and named your own constellation of stars 99. Taken an exotic bicycle tour in a foreign country 100. Picked up and moved to another city to just start over 101. Walked the Golden Gate Bridge 102. Sang loudly in the car, and didn't stop when you knew someone was looking 103. Had plastic surgery 104. Survived an illness that you shouldn't have survived 105. Wrote articles for a large publication 106. Lost over 100 pounds 107. Held someone while they were having a flashback 108. Piloted an airplane 109. Petted a stingray 110. Broken someone's heart 111. Helped an animal give birth 112. Won money on a T.V. game show 113. Broken a bone 114. Gone on an African photo safari 115. Had a body part of yours below the neck pierced 116. Fired a rifle, shotgun, or pistol 117. Eaten mushrooms that were gathered in the wild 118. Ridden a horse 119. Had major surgery 120. Had a snake as a pet 121. Hiked to the bottom of the Grand Canyon 122. Slept for more than 30 hours over the course of 48 hours 123. Visited more foreign countries than U.S. states 124. Visited all 7 continents 125. Taken a canoe trip that lasted more than 2 days 126. Eaten kangaroo meat 127. Eaten sushi 128. Had your picture in the newspaper 129. Changed someone's mind about something you care deeply about 130. Gone back to school 131. Parasailed 132. Petted a cockroach 133. Eaten fried green tomatoes 134. Read The Iliad - and the Odyssey 135. Selected one "important" author who you missed in school, and read 136. Killed and prepared an animal for eating 137. Skipped all your school reunions 138. Communicated with someone without sharing a common spoken language 139. Been elected to public office 140. Written your own computer language 141. Thought to yourself that you're living your dream 142. Had to put someone you love into hospice care 143. Built your own PC from parts 144. Sold your own artwork to someone who didn't know you 145. Had a booth at a street fair 146: Dyed your hair 147: Been a DJ 148: Shaved your head 149: Caused a car accident 150: Saved someone's life So, less than half; I think some of these things make me sound much more exciting than I really am, and some do the opposite. There are some things on the list that I would never want to do, and some that I would really love to try. How about you?

A Short Snort

2006-07-10T16:15:00.000-07:00

Here's my lovely Katie, wearing a Short Snort Tank. It feels really good to finally have a Finished Object that I can be proud of, especially after the Orangina ripping fiasco, and the Tank Girl gauge issues. Even though I measured her, checked my gauge, and everything, it's a tad big, but I comfort myself with the idea that maybe she can wear it next year, too. She's such a skinny mini. Here are the particulars: Pattern: Short Snort Tank from Knit and Tonic Yarn: Mystery yarn from the bargain bin, light blue, 100% cotton (this is the same yarn I used for Gwenyth's ChildHood sweater - you know, the one I haven't posted a picture of yet) Needle size: 4.5mm circulars Metal ring: I searched the craft section of Wal-mart, and after feeling dissatisfied, asked WH, who suggested the hardware store. This is a metal ring from a horse's bridle, and works most excellently. Started: Sometime this spring... Finished: July 10, 2006 (which now makes is legal for me to start on Sizzle)

Bliss, True Bliss

2006-07-10T11:34:00.000-07:00

Last weekend, we moved Gwenyth out of our bedroom, where she had been sleeping since her birth. I am proud to announce that I have now had six, yes, SIX nights of uninterrupted sleep. This is very exciting, as I hadn't had a full night of sleep in over a year. Sleep. Truly wonderful stuff, that. I was at the mall this rainy morning with my family. Not a place I go very often, but the boys needed to get their hair cut, and WH gets restless if he stays in the house too much. (This is the complete opposite of me, who likes nothing better than a whole day, or two, or more, when I don't have to leave the house once.) After my older daughter, Katie, had a wander through one of those accessory stores, (you know, the ones with all the plastic jewelry, flip flops, and "grab bags") I popped into our local bookstore. I was most pleased to find a copy of Rich Dad, Poor Dad, a book my Wonderful Husband has been wanting to read, and then I picked up this, as well:

Knit Baby Head & Toes, edited by Gwen Steege. It's full of very cute baby things; I think my favourite are the Bumblebee Socks. I did attempt a photo of these, but my camera gave up the ghost as I was working on it, and I have no charged batteries (since once again someone unplugged the camera batteries when they plugged in the toaster, and then didn't unplug the toaster to plug the battery charger back in). Yes, it's always the little things that make you want to flick someone in the back of the earlobe. Sigh. Anyway, it's a sweet book, and since Gwenyth is turning the big 1 next week, I am suddenly obsessed with all things baby.

I finished the tank top for Katie, and just need to sew on the ring. Since I haven't done this yet, I have not allowed myself to cast on Sizzle, but instead have been working away on Tank Girl, feeling very satisfied in that self-righteous sort of way. I sincerely hope to have some "quiet time" this afternoon, and am being very firm with myself that I use it to weave in ends and sew on the ring. If all goes according to plan, photos soon to follow.

Saturday Sky

2006-07-08T15:18:00.000-07:00

What started out as a beautiful sunny morning, turned into this. It's still fairly warm, but it's grey, and we've had one light shower. Thank goodness it stayed nice until we got home this morning. I've had a productive day: did our requisite two hours of garage sale shopping, babysat a friends' little boy for six hours, made reservations at various campgrounds in Alberta, did laundry, baked muffins, chopped up rhubarb for juice, compote and crisp (I got the instructions for the juice/compote here, scroll down until you see the Goodbye June pie). A bit got done on the knitting front. Knit and Tonic has just put out a new pattern, called Sizzle, that I have been anxiously awaiting. To keep myself somewhat disciplined, I will not allow myself to start the new project until I have completed one of my works in progress. (Although I will confess to a little sneaky swatching.) I did a quick survey of where I am at: I have Orangina, one half done, the other just started. Nope, it'll take too long. I have Tank Girl, one half done, the other a few inches in. Hmmm, potential there. I have the tank top I'm knitting up for Katie, almost there! Aha, a quick FO, and then I can legally start Sizzle! Yay! So. The tank top. It's a modified version of Knit and Tonic's Short Snort Tank, and is knit from the bottom up, in the round. The front is sewed on to a little 2" ring of some sort, and then the back is divided into two straps, which come over the shoulders and join around the ring. The front is done, I'm working on the back, and when I do my Wal-Mart shopping this weekend, I'll find a ring of some kind. We'll be good to go, and I theoretically could be working on Sizzle by Monday. Woo Hooo!

Ranks of the Unemployed

2006-07-07T09:26:00.000-07:00

Well, it's official. I have joined the ranks of the unemployed. (Background: For those of you reading this that are not Canadian, here we have 1 year paid maternity leave.) I've been on leave, and with Gwenyth's first birthday approaching, so is the date of my expected return to work. To be truthful, I've known all along that I didn't want to go back, or at least part of me didn't. But, I went through the motions of looking at my options, figuring out the costs incurred in my return to work, heck, I even wrote an Economics paper for school on the subject. And the sad (sort of) reality is that it's just not financially worthwhile for me to go back to my full time job at a local credit union. And the part of me that didn't want to return to my job, knows that right now, my children need me at home, and that I really do not want them being raised by a daycare facility, even a really good one. I feel at peace about quitting, but it was a bit sad to actually do it. I really enjoyed my position, and I had a really great supervisor. You know, one of those people who notice when you do something right, and comment on it. It was very satisfying for me, and I got a lot of personal value working somewhere that I was appreciated, and praised for a job well done. My son Brian, who recently turned 4, told me that he is my job. I guess that saying "out of the mouths of babes" is there for a reason, since he's right. So, now I have to decide what to do with myself. I'm still attending school part-time in the evenings, and I do feel it's important for me to find some way of bringing some income into the household. I've narrowed it down to two basic options. Option #1: I can look for a part-time job, where I can work 10-12 hours per week, on evenings that I'm not at school or on weekends when my hubby is home with the kiddies. Option #2: I can open up my home to provide some childcare myself. I'm still of two minds about which one is best. We're off on holidays starting the 20th of July, so I think I'll wait until we get back, and use the trip to think and pray about it all.

Things for Busy Hands

2006-07-06T13:22:00.000-07:00

I was looking around Busy Hands a few weeks ago, and came across a couple of irresistible bargains. First, the yarn. This is Mission Falls cotton, that was mis-dyed, and so was selling for (I think) $2.50 per skein. The dye is fine all the way through, but off a bit from the shade it was supposed to be. It's slightly more dusty/purpley than the picture shows, but still very pretty. I plan on another ChildHood sweater for Gwenyth, in the next larger size. There were also a few marked down colours, in various shades. Then I checked out the magazines, and found these Rebecca magazines. I've always wanted to buy one, just to see what they were like, but was never willing to pay the higher price. These were $5.95 each, and I saw a couple of patterns in each that I really liked. From what I can see in these two magazines, I like Rebecca. I did feel, as I read through a few patterns, that they were a bit hard to understand. But it could be just one of those things that if you start doing what they say, it all becomes clear as you go along. By the way, Tank Girl is still coming along. I left the first side, and started the second, paying closer attention to my tension. It's firmed up quite a bit, and I'm pretty sure I'll have to rip out and re-knit the back, but at least I'm feeling much better about it.

Tank Girl Progress

2006-07-03T08:10:00.000-07:00

This is just a quickie today; it's still "holiday weekend" here, and I'm posting while the bulk of my household is still sleeping. Once they're all up and at 'em, the day starts to move along fairly swiftly. Here is side A of Tank Girl. I'm about halfway through the decreases at the armholes, so just about complete. That's one nice thing about tanks, is once you hit the arms, it's a speedy slide to home. This is a pretty fast knit, and I'm liking the rib, but I'm a bit taken aback by my gauge. My knitting seems to have changed over the last two months or so. Previously, I have generally been "on gauge" for any project I would start. I would swatch, and always used the same needles/yarn for the pattern as it called for, no problem. I swatched for this project earlier in the year, when I realized I had grossly over-estimated the amount of yarn I needed for Katie's shrug, and had enough surplus to make myself a top. At any rate, I swatched, and put the yarn away with the needles, so I would remember and not have to do more tension swatching. Now I'm seeing that my gauge is pretty loose. For anyone who's made Tank Girl, is loose okay in the finished object? After all my yearning for some gratification, I'm contemplating ripping it all back and trying a smaller needle size. Any suggestions? Tips? Recommendations? I'm usually a keep plowing through to the end and hope for the best knitter, but I hate to get all the way there and end up with something I'm not going to wear.

Canada Day Sky

2006-07-01T18:05:00.000-07:00

It's a true blue blazer, on this, our nation's celebratory day. I know you all have already read the Yarn Harlot's blog, but in cast you missed it, check out all her amazing Canadian info. I spoke with a wonderful American some time ago, who truly could not understand why we don't just go to war with England and win our independence. I tried to explain things a few different ways, but just left it with the old, "You do things your way, I'll do things mine... can't we all just get along" speech. I lived for several years on the US/Canadian border in southern Manitoba, and was always surprised at the way those little cultural differences could pop up. I had a very sad garage sale experience this morning. What better way to celebrate Canada Day than to leave the kids at home with my Wonderful Husband and run off to garage sales for a couple or three hours? I was helping my friend try on a pair of brown leather strappy sandals, when I spied it - a box of yarn. I beetled over as casually as I could, to see cones of yarn. Cones. Another lady (and I use this term extremely loosely) was there already, and as I started to put a cone of yarn under my arm, better to scope out the rest, she reached over, ripped it away from me, and announced that she was buying the whole box. As a Canadian, I said, "Oh, okay," rather than the "Fight me for it, yarn ho (also, as a Canadian, I'm not even sure if that's how you spell that word)," which was floating somewhere at the back of my mind. So she did, and I have no yarn. I did find a couple of knitting books and a few magazines, which require further perusal before description, but no yarn. Darn it, sometimes it's rough being a Canadian.

Anouk

2006-06-30T13:20:00.000-07:00

Don't you think it's funny that kids always seem to act completely contrary to their nature when you want to take a nice picture of them? Gwenyth is truly one of the happiest babies I have ever seen. She laughs, she smiles, she even has a lovely mischievous grin. She absolutely adores being the centre of attention, so if she's there, she's golden. Today was not that kind of day. Now, I'll admit, we've had a trying couple of days. She's cutting a front tooth, and possibly fighting a touch of a cold. Still, I didn't expect anything other than her usually sunny self today at the park. Ah, well. Here she is, fascinated by a blade of grass, wearing Anouk, and the little instant gratification kerchief. Anouk was my first real project, and I don't know if you can see the texture in the fabric of the dress, but after I finished I realized that I had been purling by wrapping the yarn clockwise instead of counter-clockwise, which caused every other row to be twisted. It actually looks pretty good (can anyone say "design element"), but after this I trained myself to go the other way with the yarn. Here are the particulars:

Pattern: Anouk from Knitty Yarn: Sirdar Pure Cotton Double Knitting; 3 balls turquoise, 1/2 ball green, just a bit of the purple Started: December 2005 Finished: January 2006 Needle size: US #6/4mm Pattern size: 12 months I had originally bought a variegated yarn in the turquoise/purple family to do the flowers in, but when I started I wasn't happy with it - not clear enough on the purple pocket. So I tried the turquoise, and felt good about that. I am in love with this pattern. It was an extremely easy knit, and very rewarding as a beginner knitter. Kate Gilbert did an excellent job writing this one!