tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32276278587047447322024-03-12T20:41:42.190-07:00MyDzire4YarnAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11396460760981826515noreply@blogger.comBlogger112125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3227627858704744732.post-2235060124859817962014-01-07T13:55:00.003-08:002014-01-07T13:55:27.783-08:00Selfish Knitting MonthA few years ago, a blogger tagged January as selfish knitting month. Although we knitters/crocheters have something on the needles year round, most projects done in the last 3 or 4 months of every year are holiday gifts for our friends and loved ones. What better way to celebrate all the hard work that produced heart-felt gifts than to start something special just for you? Choosing my first selfish project of the month was tough (there are 650 patterns in my Ravelry queue) but the winner - just for the luxury factor alone - is this Bécot hat by Julie Hoover. <br />
<img class="wd-oj-pe-Ji" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-kftoo9PN-o8/Usxa9mP6LzI/AAAAAAAABoc/6Q4HrqULiOg/w140-h99-p/becot.jpg" style="transform: rotate(0deg);" title="" />It's a classic slouchy shape made with a luxurious yarn. The suggested yarn is Jones and Vandermeer Happy Mink. It's a guilt-free mink mixed with cashmere. Last week my yarn came from <a href="http://knit-purl.com/" target="_blank">Knit Purl Yarns</a>. They are my current favorite online site to satisfy my yarn snob tendencies (lol). I went with the model color "Truffle". My fingers can't move fast enough on this one. With the temperatures in single digits today, I'd like some instant gratification to wear when I have to go out tomorrow. I'm off to cast on ............ <br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11396460760981826515noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3227627858704744732.post-13036410573950704422014-01-05T22:38:00.000-08:002014-01-05T22:38:18.229-08:00The Best of 2013Happy New Year to all. Renewing the blog with a fresh look for the new year. It's an understatement to say that 2013 went by in a flash. <br />
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<li>From retirement to working a couple days a week to keep the mind fresh (and afford my yarn habit); </li>
<li>Leisure travel - Atlantic City, Williamsburg, New Orleans, Cincinnati, Dover; </li>
<li>Knit trips - Maryland Sheep and Wool Festival; Stitches Midwest; Shenandoah Fiber Festival; New York Sheep and Wool Festival</li>
<li>Family fun with the girls & the grandkids; </li>
<li>A spin on the relationship wheel (enough said) </li>
<li>Purchase of my first sheep fleece and lots of knitting</li>
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Plenty has been written about the peaceful nature of knitting and how it can restore a person's sense of peace & tranquility. I am a testament to the truth of that assertion. Even with everything going on, my mind always reverted to the fact that this was the first year without the physical presence of my Mom. But her angel spirit remains with me everyday. To keep life in balance, I relied on family, knitting, knit-sibs, & a vast array of luxurious yarns. Here's the "Best of the Year-In-Yarn":<br />
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Hats and cowls were my projects of choice for the year. A few projects not shown are a second Hitchhiker Shawl, another Beanie in Fort Hunt Federals colors, two cabled beanies (Icicle pattern), and a second pair of leg warmers. I'm not ashamed to say I have developed a deep appreciation for llama, cashmere, and silk yarns that will continue into 2014. </div>
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My fleece was purchased at the Shenandoah Fiber Festival and has been processed into DK-weight yarn by the Central Virginia Fiber Mill. I should receive it shortly so stay tuned for the pics. I welcome all suggestions for a large, intricate project that will showcase its beauty. In the meantime, here's the progress on my first project of 2014. It's the Lineage Cowl by Lisa Mutch. It's a very simple, classic style cowl with garter stitch and a few stockinette lines. I'm using Madeline Tosh Merino Light purchased at Vogue Knitting Live in 2012. The colorway is Midnight in Manhattan which was created for that first Vogue Knitting event. Loving the pattern, loving the yarn ....... </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11396460760981826515noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3227627858704744732.post-78416941213070564182012-11-24T20:55:00.002-08:002012-11-24T20:55:44.494-08:00Blue Sky LoveHope everyone had a wonderful (& filling) Thanksgiving holiday. I managed to bring home enough leftovers from daughter's house to ensure no cooking for quite a few days. <br />
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This is my first year not venturing out for Black Friday. I'm truly "ole school" - napping after dinner, rising at midnight, layering on the clothes to ensure warmth while standing in line waiting for the doors to open. Unfortunately, this year's marketing (stores open all day Thanksgiving; sales starting a week early; non sale-worthy pricing) - took all the anticipated fun out of it. 10 - 20% off doesn't even offset the cost of gas! I was tempted by my LYS' early opening but I truly, truly, need to be on a yarn diet......... the stash is out of control. <br />
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Speaking of stash, I'm doing very well on my quest to finish a decent amount of knitted gifts for Christmas. My latest project completion is the Lovely Ribbed Cowl pattern from Purl Soho.<br />
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Made with Blue Sky Alpacas Suri Merino - it's as soft & cushy as it looks & the project only took 5 days to complete due to the ribbed simplicity. This is my third project using this yarn & each time, I love it more & more. When the yarn diet ends, this yarn will be at the top of my list. </div>
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On to my next project - Slouchy Gauntlets - an extra long pair of fingerless mitts. Suggested yarn is the same Suri Merino but I'm substituting using Rowan Felted Tweed. Happy knitting!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11396460760981826515noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3227627858704744732.post-15457532947983233312012-11-16T17:52:00.001-08:002012-11-16T17:52:48.828-08:00Magic Yarn BallAt last count, I belong to at least 41 groups on Ravelry. From hat, cowl & sweater lovers to fans of Amazing Race & Top Chef - there's a group for everyone & everything on Rav. One of my favorites is my swap group - Yarn Snobs Inc........... yes, that's right, I am a Yarn Snob! Although I began my knitting journey with acrylic yarns, there is nothing quite like the feel of Alpaca, Silk, Cashmere & 100% Merino. <br />
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The ladies of YSI have opened my eyes to lots of specialty yarns & we love to treat each other with all kinds of goodies. Which brings me to our latest swap - the Magic Yarn Ball Swap. Each swapper gets a partner. Starting with one goody in the middle - yarn is wrapped around small gifts for the recipient to find as they knit up or unwind the yarn. Our swap focused on items from each knitters wishlist. I received my ball a couple weeks ago.<br />
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Beautifully decorated for fall/Halloween, my partner outdid herself (thanks, Mary)! But the outside was just a warm up to the goodies inside. It actually took me awhile to unwind because there were 3 separate sections of goodies. A gorgeous tote with my favorite Fleur de Lis pattern, stitch markers & holders, chart keeper, tape measurer, note book, needle caps, scented soap and of course a skein of luxury yarn.<br />
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It's the cashmere/merino blend (Bugga) from the Sanguine Gryphon in Red-White Leaf Beetle colorway. A gorgeous pink. Mary also gifted me an added bonus of the Summer Wind Cowl pattern by IrishGirlKnits which will look lovely in this color, </div>
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I'm off to start winding up my partner's ball. Hoping to do mine justice. Happy knitting!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11396460760981826515noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3227627858704744732.post-85385612427499927612012-11-09T12:22:00.001-08:002012-11-09T12:22:23.775-08:00The Week In ReviewMy daughter has an awesome timeshare in Williamsburg, VA so I've truly been chillaxing & putting in some dedicated knitting time. My BFF came down last weekend so we spent some time at the Outlets, Ripley's Museum, & in Virginia Beach. Drove back to NoVA on election day to vote with DD#2. <br />
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That's my Knitters For Obama pin (WAHOO!). Drove back to Williamsburg & spent Wednesday celebrating the end of all those dang political TV ads (can someone say excessive?). Visited my favorite southern LYS - Knitting Sisters - & picked up some new stash for my holiday gift knitting.<br />
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That's Rowan Drift, Rowan Felted Tweed, Regia sock yarn, Prism Lace Wool and a cool logo tote. Really love that shop. The ladies are super-friendly & the inventory is great. I managed to finish a couple of projects using my Vogue Chicago stash....... my Lucy Hat & the Ombre Cowl. Lucy Hat uses Madeline Tosh Vintage & the Ombre Cowl is in Rowan Kid Silk Haze. Both projects were fun & gave me new appreciation of these yarns. </div>
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In fact, I see that Little Knits has a fantastic price for the MadTosh Vintage so I'm off to make an order. Happy Knitting!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11396460760981826515noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3227627858704744732.post-85938899110577576872012-11-02T09:08:00.000-07:002012-11-02T09:11:59.552-07:00Yarn & Family LoveThis has been a whirlwind year for me - full of highs & lows. I'm getting used to the life of retirement & find that I truly enjoy the ability to travel on a whim. The year started with Vogue Knitting Live in New York, followed by Homespun Yarn Party, followed by Maryland Sheep & Wool Festival. This was my first year hosting a knit2gether for "I Love Yarn Day" & I missed a couple of my favorites - Stitches Midwest & Shenandoah Fiber Fest. The ultimate treat was my first New York Sheep & Wool Festival in Rhinebeck, NY. Tagging along with my knitsibs - Cici, Chelette, Arthella, and Wanda - it was truly a great experience. <br />
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Eating, knitting, shopping, more eating. The Rav meetup was fun. Getting to meet & greet the knitty "celebs", bloggers,designers, and of course other Ravelers. Stayed at home a couple days then made my way to Vogue Knitting Live in Chicago. Great (cold, cold, cold) time hanging out with aunts & cousin, Jen. Even took a sidetrip to Loopy Yarns .<br />
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Final stop was Cincinnati, OH to spend a few days with family. Kept abreast of impacts of Hurricane Sandy on the homefront while knitting up some of the new stash. Quick visit to their LYS - Hank, A Yarn Boutique (of course more stash was acquired). Very nice shop with a great inventory. Back home now finishing up the Lucy Hat - from the latest Knitscene magazine. It's a great pattern!<br />
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As the weather continues to cool down, my knitting mojo heats up so I'm in full knitting mode now. Winter knitwear for me, the daughters, & the grandboys, as well as holiday gifting. Life is good!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11396460760981826515noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3227627858704744732.post-87590426705798505382012-08-09T12:00:00.000-07:002012-08-09T12:14:06.238-07:00In Loving Memory of Gwen SampsonTo my Mom who passed away last week.
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">You blessed my life in so many ways</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">I will cherish our memories until the end of my days.
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">You left me too soon - this was not part of our plan
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">But God's wishes always come before those of man
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">A special bond we share like no other
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">For this is possible for only Daughter and Mother
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">I thank God for each day we were able to share
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Without you in my life, it will be difficult to bear
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Being with God, you will find joy and peace
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">In this I find comfort and some happiness at least
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Mud-Dear you will always be
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">My Mom so loving and so loved by me.
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Excerpted from Deanne Finewood's poem - Mommy Dearest</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11396460760981826515noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3227627858704744732.post-79415508849732214752012-07-07T09:15:00.002-07:002012-07-07T09:15:31.211-07:00Celebrate!My birthday was a couple weeks ago but this is worth a new celebration.
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It's Chocolate! So pretty I don't want to cut it........Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11396460760981826515noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3227627858704744732.post-55149323815626794122012-07-05T06:55:00.000-07:002012-07-05T06:55:58.124-07:00IndependenceWhoosh, whoosh (blowing the dust off the blog).
Happy Belated Independence Day to all! This year is super-special for lots of reasons. After a couple of fun-filled celebrations, I joined the Double Nickel Club (yep, that's 55 for those counting) and retired from federal service after 32 years on the job. Independence is sweet.
My Plans? Refocusing efforts toward my Arts & Crafts business (Stitches of Heritage); traveling; getting healthier; assisting Mom; volunteering my time/talents; & of course more time knitting!
My latest project is the Color Affection Shawl. As the Ravelry stats will attest, it is very popular. I've named my version the "2ManyAffections" shawl because it's being made especially for Mom who is always chilly during/after chemo. Hopefully, this shawl will wrap her in warmth & love on a daily basis. I'm using Miss Babs Yummy Superwash yarn in the Moss, Frogbelly & Roasted Pumpkin colorways.
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You would think boredom would set in since the pattern is entirely garter stitch, but the stripes & design keep it interesting.
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Until next time, happy knitting!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11396460760981826515noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3227627858704744732.post-20890592146220958912011-09-07T18:10:00.000-07:002011-09-07T18:28:21.455-07:00Kauni LoveA year or so ago, I made a Baktus Scarf using Kauni yarn. The long colorways & color transitions make this one of my favorite yarns. Aunt E & Jen are currently doing a KAL (knit-a-long) for a Kauni shawl/wrap we saw at Stitches Midwest. Not to be left out, I went to my stash for the black/gray/white combo which is becoming a great Leaf Lace Scarf<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z0giJluYDSs/TmgX0bcZktI/AAAAAAAABgA/SIrfmfA2Cvg/s1600/002.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z0giJluYDSs/TmgX0bcZktI/AAAAAAAABgA/SIrfmfA2Cvg/s320/002.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5649791922023797458" /></a><br /><br />The pattern is quick & super simple so hopefully I'll finish before the cooler weather settles in. Mom's eyes sparkled when I showed it to her so I probably won't get to keep it for myself (lol). <br /><br />Finished the Minimalist Top aka the "Fuzzy Wuzzy Bear" sweater. All the stockinette wore me down so it didn't quite make it to tunic length. Fits nicely though & oh so warm. This was supposed to be my year of "11 Sweaters in 2011"....... well, Fuzzy Wuzzy officially rolls in as #1. What can I say but I certainly had good intentions. <br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AQ80hyI5Ses/TmgZurRl3TI/AAAAAAAABgI/8w3ZIEikb7w/s1600/002.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 272px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AQ80hyI5Ses/TmgZurRl3TI/AAAAAAAABgI/8w3ZIEikb7w/s320/002.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5649794022217473330" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11396460760981826515noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3227627858704744732.post-91730978410285261442011-08-29T16:28:00.000-07:002011-08-29T17:31:31.400-07:00Yarn Blast in the MidwestThis year's Stitches Midwest was a blast. Aunt E & I met up with Jen in the burbs of Chicago this past weekend for a knitting getaway of yarns, gadgets, and books. This was our 3rd year in attendance & we were immediately greeted by.......<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_TsBglM9UBs/TlwhzQXZuhI/AAAAAAAABeI/M5jduO5Qj6k/s1600/012.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_TsBglM9UBs/TlwhzQXZuhI/AAAAAAAABeI/M5jduO5Qj6k/s320/012.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5646425197265926674" /></a> What a hoot!
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<br />I got to visit all me favorite vendors - Signature Needle Arts, Miss Babs Yarns, WEBS, and Habu Textiles - as well as some new favorites: Erin Lane Bags, Flying Fingers, The Yarn & Fiber Company, Windy Valley Musk Ox, and Fiber Optic.
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<br />Plenty of goodies but I think my favorite has to be the Habu hand-dyed cashmere & the silk/mohair blend from Capistrano Fiber Arts (sold by Habu). Planning a couple of luxury scarves for me & only me (lol). Here's some shots from the weekend ................<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IIeaZqFgnX4/TlwtAISDmWI/AAAAAAAABfQ/jn8t437Tf_Q/s1600/022.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IIeaZqFgnX4/TlwtAISDmWI/AAAAAAAABfQ/jn8t437Tf_Q/s200/022.JPG" border="0"alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5646437513062226274" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OiMKdMvHamo/TlwtAF-ZQBI/AAAAAAAABfI/Kd7MijPLxt8/s1600/019.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OiMKdMvHamo/TlwtAF-ZQBI/AAAAAAAABfI/Kd7MijPLxt8/s200/019.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5646437512442888210" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WGaZZwQame0/Tlws_1mCn2I/AAAAAAAABfA/FqS0jqBpGy4/s1600/018.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 172px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WGaZZwQame0/Tlws_1mCn2I/AAAAAAAABfA/FqS0jqBpGy4/s200/018.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5646437508045774690" /></a>
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<br />I even managed to start & finish a project over the weekend. WEBS gave away a mini-skein of Berroco Boboli at the festival that I turned into a headband for DD#1. The Boboli is ultra soft & great to knit with. <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-T-rR_lIY4cw/TlwpKJLrxFI/AAAAAAAABeo/dG9LZhHyMrg/s1600/032.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-T-rR_lIY4cw/TlwpKJLrxFI/AAAAAAAABeo/dG9LZhHyMrg/s320/032.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5646433287056114770" /></a>
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<br />Happy knitting Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11396460760981826515noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3227627858704744732.post-71273698165889502762011-08-22T17:26:00.000-07:002011-08-22T18:16:44.035-07:00Knitting Nook - DIY StyleTrying to get my "knitting seasons" in sync. Seems that by the time Autumn rolls around, I should have at least a couple of cardigans, car coats & wraps completed. Headed in the right direction. I finished Jared Flood's Guernsey Wrap in an olive color which will be great for early fall. Didn't follow all the repeats but it's certainly long enough to wraparound a couple times.
<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_az8xasiqGg/TlL2WCHGlwI/AAAAAAAABdY/kaNXiemVdVE/s1600/010.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_az8xasiqGg/TlL2WCHGlwI/AAAAAAAABdY/kaNXiemVdVE/s320/010.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5643844141432870658" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--Mjo80ejjH0/TlL2e7iQrII/AAAAAAAABdg/sH2hz8jJHSQ/s1600/008.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--Mjo80ejjH0/TlL2e7iQrII/AAAAAAAABdg/sH2hz8jJHSQ/s320/008.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5643844294286552194" /></a>
<br />Also finishing the Mohair Minimalist by Anna Kuduja. It's a top-down seamless top in stockinette stitch. Found myself with an extended ER wait with Mom earlier in the month so this baby was practically finished in a weekend. That was the positive - the not-so-positive was that I obviously used a heavier mohair than the original pattern envisioned so mine isn't so sheer. But it will be perfect for winter when I'm going for the fuzzy-wuzzy-wuzza-bear look (lol). Making it tunic length so maybe mama bear?
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<br />All my years & years of watching HGTV have finally paid off. I needed to convert the former knitting room back to a bedroom & find some space for the yarn & knitting paraphernalia. Drum roll please........... meet my Knitting Nook!
<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eaIxplIW2QM/TlL7OGT0bjI/AAAAAAAABdw/U6QxEO4yExs/s1600/014.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eaIxplIW2QM/TlL7OGT0bjI/AAAAAAAABdw/U6QxEO4yExs/s320/014.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5643849502679133746" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-akxol6x4xLY/TlL7dj4VlKI/AAAAAAAABd4/SqTtycygUao/s1600/001.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-akxol6x4xLY/TlL7dj4VlKI/AAAAAAAABd4/SqTtycygUao/s320/001.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5643849768314967202" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AVZD4Ya5OMk/TlL70FOFxAI/AAAAAAAABeA/I0ghbB_i6YU/s1600/009.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 276px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AVZD4Ya5OMk/TlL70FOFxAI/AAAAAAAABeA/I0ghbB_i6YU/s320/009.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5643850155221697538" /></a>
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<br />With a great chair find on Craigslist, floor tiles from Lowes (love them!), and all my knitting gear, I'm in knitters heaven........also known as the oversized closet of my bedroom. I had a blast & looking forward to starting my next project when I return from Stitches Midwest this weekend.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11396460760981826515noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3227627858704744732.post-5071768846244135192011-07-11T18:21:00.000-07:002011-07-11T18:40:39.879-07:00Another Year OlderSo much going on. Days are whizzing by. Mom's chemo treatments are ongoing; DD#2 scored a great new job; DD#1 was honored as Citizen of the Year in Media from the Roanoke NAACP and I celebrated my 54th birthday a couple weeks ago. I'm entering a landmark year - planning on retiring on my next birthday....... Oh Happy Day!<br /><br />In the midst of all this I'm still balancing out the hectic with knitting. After a couple of hiccups on the chart for Shirley Paden's Cabled Shrug, finally making decent progress. It is a beautiful design & the cables are exquisite. Haven't felt so challenged since completing the Every Way Wrap back in 2009. <br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8XbjmNEfpRY/Thukco-X0CI/AAAAAAAABdA/Uu3rlDXcKjE/s1600/002.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 226px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8XbjmNEfpRY/Thukco-X0CI/AAAAAAAABdA/Uu3rlDXcKjE/s320/002.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5628272971271884834" /></a><br /><br />Y'all know how I love all my knitting gadgets. Special shout-out to my knitsib, Debbie, for this beautiful Yarn Bowl. Been scoping them out for over a year & just like Goldilocks.......some were too small, some were too low......but this one is just right! <br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OebGZz11PJE/ThulxBDwmsI/AAAAAAAABdI/quGJ3-QwkdQ/s1600/001.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 201px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OebGZz11PJE/ThulxBDwmsI/AAAAAAAABdI/quGJ3-QwkdQ/s320/001.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5628274420845943490" /></a><br /><br />Happy Knitting.........Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11396460760981826515noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3227627858704744732.post-29826077544890593332011-05-30T07:08:00.000-07:002011-05-30T07:36:09.031-07:00The Guernsey & The ShrugHappy Memorial Day!!! The wonderful start of summer.......bar-b-ques, picnics, beaches & of course - new knitting projects. After finishing so many hats, I need a challenge. So I turned to one of my favorite designers, Shirley Paden. There are several of her patterns in my Ravelry queue including a cabled shrug from the Interweave Knits Fall 2005 issue. Chose the Nashua Alpaca/Merino blend in Periwinkle from my stash. <br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nDIAS969MAc/TeOnc_bmwgI/AAAAAAAABcs/dbQPfzOq7Bs/s1600/003.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 266px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nDIAS969MAc/TeOnc_bmwgI/AAAAAAAABcs/dbQPfzOq7Bs/s320/003.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612513677139165698" /></a><br />The design is a simple rectangle with cuffs and an intricate diamond-cable pattern. Since I'm going through my "wrap" phase, I also started Jared Flood's Guernsey Wrap. It's also a simple rectangle with a series of knit & purl patterns that simulate a traditional Guernsey sweater. Chose Elann's Limited Edition Naples - a wool/silk/rayon blend with a great drape. Perfect for any air-conditioned venue.<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gLblWFhDLfs/TeOppqVeW6I/AAAAAAAABc0/xfSzs1LN1fg/s1600/002.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 297px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gLblWFhDLfs/TeOppqVeW6I/AAAAAAAABc0/xfSzs1LN1fg/s320/002.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612516093837859746" /></a><br />The Guernsey is my take-along project while the shrug demands all my attention so it's my stay-at-home project. So no excuses for not knitting all the time (lol). <br /><br />Enjoy any festivities you have going on today. Mom came home from hospital on Saturday full of energy so we'll plant the garden today & enjoy goodies off the grill. Happy Knitting!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11396460760981826515noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3227627858704744732.post-7344746816577749652011-05-15T19:04:00.000-07:002011-05-15T20:06:33.145-07:00Thrown For A LoopIt's been two months since my Mom was diagnosed with lung cancer. She has moved in with me & we're working our way through chemo, nurses, physical therapists, home health aids & far too many trips to the ER. Through all the upheaval, we are blessed with a strong family & support system. Brother stepped up to ensure her move/storage of goods goes smoothly. DD#2 cares for Mom daily while I work. DD#1 travels home every weekend to cook & care for Mom while giving us a break. Auntees call, write & most importantly, send their prayers & love. Speaking of prayers - there is a "prayer circle extraordinaire" all around the country that's providing us strength everyday. <br /><br />And through it all, I knit. Hats are perfect mindless knitting & Mom calls them a security blanket for her head that seems to always be cold. Sanguine Gryphon's Bugga - a mix of merino & cashmere; Blue Sky Alpaca Silk; and a skein of hand-dyed have been transformed to........... <br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N9mm8dLbmWg/TdCOX9jXBDI/AAAAAAAABbE/fXC4aA7TgoI/s1600/alpaca%2Bsilk.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N9mm8dLbmWg/TdCOX9jXBDI/AAAAAAAABbE/fXC4aA7TgoI/s200/alpaca%2Bsilk.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5607138078387274802" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0Q1Yik3tXiY/TdCOpCUIGuI/AAAAAAAABbc/1MhdQSwc2Mc/s1600/bugga%2Bbeanie.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 195px; height: 200px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0Q1Yik3tXiY/TdCOpCUIGuI/AAAAAAAABbc/1MhdQSwc2Mc/s200/bugga%2Bbeanie.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5607138371723336418" /></a><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j555Z5HEvUg/TdCOoyIrbVI/AAAAAAAABbU/o-ClJ3CmYKY/s1600/hand%2Bdyed%2Bbeanie.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j555Z5HEvUg/TdCOoyIrbVI/AAAAAAAABbU/o-ClJ3CmYKY/s200/hand%2Bdyed%2Bbeanie.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5607138367380352338" /></a><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4RsdxB_2qQI/TdCOom8_82I/AAAAAAAABbM/iESMwyxTQIM/s1600/slouch%2Bbugga.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4RsdxB_2qQI/TdCOom8_82I/AAAAAAAABbM/iESMwyxTQIM/s200/slouch%2Bbugga.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5607138364378575714" /></a><br /><br />Although I don't have a pic - a big shoutout goes to my knitsib - Arthella - for knitting Mom a beanie in beautiful shades of pink & purple from supersoft yarn. Speaking of knitsibs, Debbie & I attended our fourth Maryland Sheep & Wool Festival on the Saturday before Mother's Day. <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tVxzuoFD4d0/TdCSqfhInsI/AAAAAAAABb8/85mGafjidFk/s1600/014.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 144px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tVxzuoFD4d0/TdCSqfhInsI/AAAAAAAABb8/85mGafjidFk/s200/014.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5607142794788904642" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jmLvZ6AKTI0/TdCSqMeo6GI/AAAAAAAABb0/x0FTBjMGnO0/s1600/013.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jmLvZ6AKTI0/TdCSqMeo6GI/AAAAAAAABb0/x0FTBjMGnO0/s200/013.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5607142789678164066" /></a><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PvN0pAHVNjo/TdCSp4eHU7I/AAAAAAAABbs/Yb131pQpXBs/s1600/006.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PvN0pAHVNjo/TdCSp4eHU7I/AAAAAAAABbs/Yb131pQpXBs/s200/006.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5607142784307254194" /></a><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kBEClnv6xxk/TdCSp3trtSI/AAAAAAAABbk/NNlEaZR5x-I/s1600/004.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kBEClnv6xxk/TdCSp3trtSI/AAAAAAAABbk/NNlEaZR5x-I/s200/004.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5607142784104117538" /></a><br /><br />A beautiful day with vendors galore...... Babs, Bugga, Mohair, & a yarn meter - all made their way into my bags (lol). (Need to seriously consider a yarn diet!) <br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UoJR0ar44Yo/TdCUUTeQymI/AAAAAAAABck/E_dlXkTcvx0/s1600/023.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 96px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UoJR0ar44Yo/TdCUUTeQymI/AAAAAAAABck/E_dlXkTcvx0/s200/023.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5607144612621765218" /></a><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JPazR7mNLZc/TdCUULkp-jI/AAAAAAAABcc/Sg117X23ejc/s1600/021.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 114px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JPazR7mNLZc/TdCUULkp-jI/AAAAAAAABcc/Sg117X23ejc/s200/021.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5607144610501098034" /></a><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dD-0PqOg9Qg/TdCUT0oC1wI/AAAAAAAABcU/N7D13aoyfhg/s1600/020.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 91px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dD-0PqOg9Qg/TdCUT0oC1wI/AAAAAAAABcU/N7D13aoyfhg/s200/020.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5607144604341294850" /></a><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jlLw4alYn1E/TdCUT_NLcaI/AAAAAAAABcM/NokoEjq9ES4/s1600/018.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 96px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jlLw4alYn1E/TdCUT_NLcaI/AAAAAAAABcM/NokoEjq9ES4/s200/018.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5607144607181402530" /></a><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e3_eigjjQAw/TdCUTpgwS5I/AAAAAAAABcE/Lf5m9662rgA/s1600/017.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 96px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e3_eigjjQAw/TdCUTpgwS5I/AAAAAAAABcE/Lf5m9662rgA/s200/017.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5607144601357929362" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11396460760981826515noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3227627858704744732.post-45269000342413455772011-01-08T18:56:00.000-08:002011-01-08T19:19:12.782-08:00Happy Birthday Ma!Today is my Mom's 76th Birthday. She's living the life I hope to at that age...... retired 20 years, organizing events in her active-seniors community, & traveling to the casino whenever she wants....... She worked so hard the first part of life, I like to see her enjoying the second part. My handknit gift to her was the Button-up Wrap by cdaniele. Made from Cascade Yarns Eco+ in the Cordovan colorway. She loves the poncho style but arthritis makes it difficult to maneuver over the head. The button-up front makes it secure & easy. <br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TSkl4j_ZEUI/AAAAAAAABas/SGd1e1QWUp0/s1600/016.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 290px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TSkl4j_ZEUI/AAAAAAAABas/SGd1e1QWUp0/s320/016.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5560016868629614914" /></a><br /><br />Belated Happy New Year to you all. It was a wonderful holiday season filled with family, friends, & lots of knitting. I finished all the hand knit stocking stuffers (a first for me) and joined the 11 in 2011 challenge on Ravelry. It's finishing 11 sweaters (cardigans, tanks, pullovers, etc) during 2011. It's really just an excuse to knit more (as if I needed an excuse). In addition to pulling out the unfinished Einstein Coat, the Tempest Cardigan, & the Vogue short-sleeve cardigan - I started the Cire-Perdue by Norah Gaughan. Beautiful cable up the center front. <br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TSkoGb3OTVI/AAAAAAAABa0/byxgLt28yKc/s1600/010_medium.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TSkoGb3OTVI/AAAAAAAABa0/byxgLt28yKc/s320/010_medium.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5560019305989295442" /></a><br /><br />Let me get busy........ happy knitting!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11396460760981826515noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3227627858704744732.post-82731991066335108512010-12-16T18:05:00.001-08:002010-12-16T18:36:18.816-08:00The Hat Brigade<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TQrGq62LfBI/AAAAAAAABaY/GgRq12ACLCc/s1600/2010-12-11%2B13%2B28%2B57.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TQrGq62LfBI/AAAAAAAABaY/GgRq12ACLCc/s320/2010-12-11%2B13%2B28%2B57.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5551467931340864530" /></a><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TQrGqqv5A2I/AAAAAAAABaQ/NC44V3Qd5vs/s1600/teal%2Bhat.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TQrGqqv5A2I/AAAAAAAABaQ/NC44V3Qd5vs/s320/teal%2Bhat.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5551467927019520866" /></a><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TQrGqE2knUI/AAAAAAAABaI/D4flUSz_xuo/s1600/2010-12-11%2B13%2B29%2B53.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TQrGqE2knUI/AAAAAAAABaI/D4flUSz_xuo/s320/2010-12-11%2B13%2B29%2B53.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5551467916846996802" /></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TQrGqPlFqPI/AAAAAAAABaA/UbtlTmRDUAM/s1600/ridged%2Bhat.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 203px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TQrGqPlFqPI/AAAAAAAABaA/UbtlTmRDUAM/s320/ridged%2Bhat.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5551467919726455026" /></a><br /><br />Thanks for all the well-wishes! The good vibes from all of you hit their mark & helped me have a peaceful & uplifting week. And the great equalizer - knitting - also did it's job. I delved right into my pattern queue & selected a few hats I've been wanting to make. The result is the array of hats at the top. From top to bottom - Felicity made from Mirasol Yarn Akapana; Slouchy Beehive Hat made from Araucania Nature Wool Chunky; Claudia made from Berroco Blackstone Tweed; and Garter Ridged Hat made from Ester Bitran Hand-Dyed Andes Wool. All were great fun & best of all made from stash yarn. I plan to gift them all to co-workers who have been hinting all year about wanting something handknit. <br /><br />Still have a few more last-minute items to knit-up for the family. Today starts my winter vacation (aka knitting-at-home-in-pjs). Won't go back to work until the first week in January. D.C. got the first real snowfall today so it really feels like hibernation time. First, I need to get the tree decorated and all the trimmings together for enjoying the kids & grandkids next week. <br /><br />Happy knitting & happy holidays!<br /><br />P.S. Forgot to mention that I did finish my Warmer/Capelet. Came out wonderful!<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TQrMfGFCxGI/AAAAAAAABag/ff5XaCFdqpM/s1600/003.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TQrMfGFCxGI/AAAAAAAABag/ff5XaCFdqpM/s320/003.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5551474325267334242" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11396460760981826515noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3227627858704744732.post-89048790805563339072010-12-09T19:00:00.000-08:002010-12-11T07:55:54.682-08:00Getting In BalanceI am usually the calm one in high stress situations. That went out the window last night when I was struck by a minivan while crossing the street at an intersection near my home. My angel (and the Lord) was looking over me. At the middle of the crosswalk, the sound of the engine accelerating made me step back. But not quick enough - the van ran over the front of my foot. I have never experienced the level of rage that I felt towards the driver. My spirit still feels out of balance.<br /><br />Emotions have gone full circle. From fear, to anger, to shock, and back to anger after learning that the driver was not issued any citation. While she was extremely apologetic - not giving your full attention to driving; striking a pedestrian in a crosswalk; and not heeding the right-of-way should have circumstances. While the police officer was very polite, it is unnerving that he was more concerned with conveying the insurance reporting procedures to me than sending that message to the driver. I won't vent about the hazards of the "sue them" or "get paid" mentality that prevails in this society. The popularity of shows like Judge Judy, Joe, & Alex attests to that. <br /><br />The swelling has subsided, the limp and the bruising will eventually go away. The opportunity to get paid doesn't interest me - having drivers who are not distracted does. <br /><br />Maybe meditation & more knitting can get my spirit back in balance.........Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11396460760981826515noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3227627858704744732.post-75487693155102046052010-11-21T18:45:00.000-08:002010-11-21T19:33:50.956-08:00A Home For The Holidays<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TOnavYdnbkI/AAAAAAAABZI/7gqZfD5H-hY/s1600/102_0171.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TOnavYdnbkI/AAAAAAAABZI/7gqZfD5H-hY/s320/102_0171.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5542201324011482690" /></a> Yesterday, the girls and I participated in Fannie Mae's Help the Homeless Walkathon that raises funds to support organizations working to prevent and end homelessness in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. I've been walking this one since 2003 and it's one of my favorites because 100% of all registration fees, donations, and sponsorship contributions go directly to the Organizations that provide services to people who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. Plus it's such a family-friendly affair - lots of moms, dads, kids & dogs (yes, even doggie donations in the name of your pet)...... This year there were more than 14,000 registered to walk on this bright & sunny day. Here's a few pics: <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TOnc5DW9A8I/AAAAAAAABZQ/Mi3fjePMlSs/s1600/102_0170.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TOnc5DW9A8I/AAAAAAAABZQ/Mi3fjePMlSs/s320/102_0170.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5542203689168339906" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TOndILX_Q8I/AAAAAAAABZY/qnUiblgOT2I/s1600/102_0172.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 227px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TOndILX_Q8I/AAAAAAAABZY/qnUiblgOT2I/s320/102_0172.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5542203949018203074" /></a> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TOndYo2B5LI/AAAAAAAABZg/smqCf1UDekk/s1600/102_0175.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 250px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TOndYo2B5LI/AAAAAAAABZg/smqCf1UDekk/s320/102_0175.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5542204231806739634" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TOndYwU0lgI/AAAAAAAABZo/bFoYgEfWJFE/s1600/102_0178.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TOndYwU0lgI/AAAAAAAABZo/bFoYgEfWJFE/s320/102_0178.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5542204233814939138" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />After the walkathon, it was home & back to knitting. I finished the cap for DD#2's SO. Used the "Regular Guy Beanie" pattern and Frog Tree Alpaca yarn for a super soft finish. <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TOngDsuhXZI/AAAAAAAABZw/PvTus4jCqQg/s1600/007.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 261px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TOngDsuhXZI/AAAAAAAABZw/PvTus4jCqQg/s320/007.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5542207170606620050" /></a><br /><br />Started the "Hot Chocolate Warmer" by Eline Oftedal last week. It's a beautiful capelet that's knit in the round from the bottom. Leaf pattern at the bottom designed to resemble the leaves of the cocoa plant. I'm using my stash of Knit Picks Wool of the Andes Bulky in a beautiful blackberry colorway..... so mine is a "Blackberry Warmer". Have finished the body and now working the shoulders. My only modification will be to drop the contrasting neck color. Very nice project. <br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TOnkZZCdfxI/AAAAAAAABZ4/as1G2ID21eM/s1600/002.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TOnkZZCdfxI/AAAAAAAABZ4/as1G2ID21eM/s320/002.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5542211941325176594" /></a><br /><br />Have fallen in love with several patterns from Twist Collective - Winter 2010 edition. If you haven't checked it out - run, don't walk - to the website. In case I don't get back to post this week...... Happy Thanksgiving & Happy Knitting to all!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11396460760981826515noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3227627858704744732.post-84045007943428514722010-11-10T06:41:00.000-08:002010-11-10T06:54:21.267-08:00Yowza Saroyan<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TNqvb1IgWZI/AAAAAAAABZA/tL9GDeICAHY/s1600/saroyan1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 170px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TNqvb1IgWZI/AAAAAAAABZA/tL9GDeICAHY/s320/saroyan1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5537931584459528594" /></a><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TNqvbpU12eI/AAAAAAAABY4/WtT4t2H-gzQ/s1600/saroyan2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 273px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TNqvbpU12eI/AAAAAAAABY4/WtT4t2H-gzQ/s320/saroyan2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5537931581290043874" /></a><br /><br />Saroyan by Liz Abinante (free pattern at feministy.com)<br />One Skein (560 yards) of Miss Babs Yowza - Whatta Skein <br />Colorway: Russet<br />Began - October 20. Finished - November 5<br /><br />I'm in love with this pattern and this yarn. The pattern is one piece from start to finish and can be adjusted to different yarn weights & lengths. My modifications were 9 leaves on the increase & decrease and 12 leaves in the center. Have another skein of Miss Babs in Plum that just might become another Saroyan. <br /><br />Keeping peace in the family. DD#2 liked the hat & gloves I made for DD#1's boyfriend - so I've started another set for her boyfriend. Using Frog Tree's Alpaca Sportweight for this one. Pics coming soon. <br /><br />Happy knitting!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11396460760981826515noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3227627858704744732.post-2764801397671492592010-10-26T19:22:00.000-07:002010-10-26T20:01:26.762-07:00Full Knitting MojoGood thing I need my job to afford my yarn habit. Feeling like I could just spend my days knitting, knitting, knitting. Maximizing my daily commute time (knitting), my Saturdays at the grand kids football games (knitting), Sundays watching NFL (knitting). Best of all I'm getting projects finished! The proof - hat & fingerless gloves for Martin ........<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TMeOy1xUa5I/AAAAAAAABYI/plGBpnNk8EM/s1600/001.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TMeOy1xUa5I/AAAAAAAABYI/plGBpnNk8EM/s320/001.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532547671326485394" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TMeOywQEQVI/AAAAAAAABYA/2ugk1rxa7iw/s1600/002.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TMeOywQEQVI/AAAAAAAABYA/2ugk1rxa7iw/s320/002.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532547669844836690" /></a> Getting it in the mail this week for overseas delivery and will follow-up with another care package of socks and a scarf. <br /><br />Started the Saroyan Scarf designed by Liz Abinante. I tend to shy away from patterns on Ravelry that has been done by the masses but couldn't pass on this one. Using Miss Babs "Yowza" yarn in Russet. The pattern is simple, yet interesting, with its leaf edge and the yarn colorway is beautiful. Haven't decided if it will be a Christmas gift or a keeper. The deciding factor may be if there's enough yarn for a hat...... then it's all mine.<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TMeQJ_VbyWI/AAAAAAAABYY/2UI58kypFN0/s1600/004.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TMeQJ_VbyWI/AAAAAAAABYY/2UI58kypFN0/s320/004.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532549168542501218" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TMeQJg5HyOI/AAAAAAAABYQ/3w_755vTMwk/s1600/003.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TMeQJg5HyOI/AAAAAAAABYQ/3w_755vTMwk/s320/003.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532549160370686178" /></a><br /><br />Since I missed the Rhinebeck Festival (again!), a trip to my LYS, Fibrespace, was a must. Last weekend picked up another skein of Miss Babs Yowza in Plum; a skein of Madelinetosh Merino Light in Clematis, and a skein of Madelinetosh Pashmina in Forestry. All three colors were shouting my name (lol) as I roamed the store. <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TMeT3EoRtYI/AAAAAAAABYw/67vuO2IMNj4/s1600/033.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 146px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TMeT3EoRtYI/AAAAAAAABYw/67vuO2IMNj4/s320/033.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532553241592706434" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TMeT28U6tPI/AAAAAAAABYo/S26KEgyuBpk/s1600/030.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 138px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TMeT28U6tPI/AAAAAAAABYo/S26KEgyuBpk/s320/030.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532553239364023538" /></a><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TMeT2n_NenI/AAAAAAAABYg/0GMVRSVAL68/s1600/029.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 190px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TMeT2n_NenI/AAAAAAAABYg/0GMVRSVAL68/s320/029.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532553233904269938" /></a><br /><br />Looking forward to a roadtrip over the weekend and yet another chance for dedicated knitting time (not driving, of course). Happy Halloween & happy knitting, y'allAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11396460760981826515noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3227627858704744732.post-33434120422770256282010-10-13T16:41:00.000-07:002010-10-13T17:15:13.068-07:0030 Day Wrap-upSooo glad the weather has changed & it's fall. Been crazy-busy but the knitting Mojo is in full effect. Maybe this will be the year that I accomplish my plan of knitted stocking stuffers for all this Christmas. <br /><br />After a quick trip to Ohio last month, I visited daughter just in time for the 10th Annual Smith Mountain Lake Wine Tasting Festival. What a blast! Delicious wine, swinging band, and plenty of fun-loving patrons. <br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TLZGFu0u2aI/AAAAAAAABXo/iOOufBBV81U/s1600/015.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 317px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TLZGFu0u2aI/AAAAAAAABXo/iOOufBBV81U/s320/015.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5527682656926357922" /></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TLZGFRBE6-I/AAAAAAAABXg/074PEamJrPc/s1600/013.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TLZGFRBE6-I/AAAAAAAABXg/074PEamJrPc/s320/013.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5527682648925072354" /></a><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TLZGFDugoXI/AAAAAAAABXY/f1xdqFd5KjE/s1600/006.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TLZGFDugoXI/AAAAAAAABXY/f1xdqFd5KjE/s320/006.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5527682645357535602" /></a><br /><br />Saturdays have been filled with cheering on the grandsons at their football games. Nothing cuter than those ankle-biters running the field. Watch out NFL! Been trying to become a "regular" with the Sunday Sit-n-Knit group at A Tangled Skein. I get so much motivation from these knitsibs. Everyone has such great WIPs. Thanks to Thella for encouraging me to try some colorwork. Her projects are beautiful and she knits and spins with no-fear (lol). After all these years of knitting, I had never tried color stranding. For my first project, I finished the Sheep & Wool Hat by Emily Spence. <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TLZI7d9EQyI/AAAAAAAABXw/vRe0Cta-KyA/s1600/006_medium.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 293px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TLZI7d9EQyI/AAAAAAAABXw/vRe0Cta-KyA/s320/006_medium.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5527685779134104354" /></a><br /><br />Super simple project with great results. Need to master the "float" but have definitely added a couple more stranding projects to my queue. Lastly, started my gift knitting with <em>Jeff's Mitts </em>by Lorraine Ehrlinger. Named mine "Martin's Mitts" because they're for my daughter's boyfriend who's been deployed overseas. They will be matched with the <em>Regular Guy Beanie </em>by Chuck Wright and a pair of<em> Man Socks </em>by Hannah Fettig. All great traveling projects I can do on the metro during my daily communte. Hope to finish up in the next week or so. <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TLZK20mqZuI/AAAAAAAABX4/AsatjZlnGeU/s1600/006.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TLZK20mqZuI/AAAAAAAABX4/AsatjZlnGeU/s320/006.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5527687898338060002" /></a><br /><br />Happy knitting y'all.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11396460760981826515noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3227627858704744732.post-67945733249206666762010-09-06T16:56:00.000-07:002010-09-06T17:30:40.807-07:00Start-itisMy que of projects on Ravelry represents my wish list of everything I'd like to knit if I had a gazillion years of "me" time. Since that's not the case, deciding what to make next is always a challenge. This summer I was on a cardigan binge where I started the Cotton Crane Cardi, the Oriel Lace Cardi, and the Tempest Cardi.<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TIWDkPZ9zTI/AAAAAAAABWk/dVs-o18mPbQ/s1600/crane.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TIWDkPZ9zTI/AAAAAAAABWk/dVs-o18mPbQ/s200/crane.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5513957977419009330" /></a><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TIWDjwhKZXI/AAAAAAAABWc/5UoVnN31SbY/s1600/oriel.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TIWDjwhKZXI/AAAAAAAABWc/5UoVnN31SbY/s200/oriel.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5513957969127695730" /></a><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TIWDjpcTqKI/AAAAAAAABWU/BPQ0R6cKUfY/s1600/tempest.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 184px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TIWDjpcTqKI/AAAAAAAABWU/BPQ0R6cKUfY/s200/tempest.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5513957967228283042" /></a><br />All of them beautiful - none of them finished. <br /><br />While at Stitches Midwest, cousin Jen gifted me some great sock yarn. Of course, in the hotel that night, I started a pair of toe-up socks with the gusset on the bottom (my new favorite sock technique from Wendy Johnson). <br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TIWHOOb8NCI/AAAAAAAABW8/IYXbXk6H6qg/s1600/003.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 248px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TIWHOOb8NCI/AAAAAAAABW8/IYXbXk6H6qg/s320/003.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5513961997248246818" /></a><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TIWFg1u5zsI/AAAAAAAABWs/Q2Fh-UEseDw/s1600/005.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 270px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TIWFg1u5zsI/AAAAAAAABWs/Q2Fh-UEseDw/s320/005.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5513960118011154114" /></a><br /><br />As I finish-up the first sock (do I really need 2?), my attention is drawn back to the que. This time it's hats & scarves for fall. Someone please send the knitting police to issue me a citation - I must finish something soon!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11396460760981826515noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3227627858704744732.post-6894506582431542312010-08-24T18:11:00.000-07:002010-08-24T18:51:59.744-07:00Stitches Midwest 2010I enjoy all types of Yarny Events - from the mega Maryland Sheep & Wool Fest to the local Homespun Yarn Party. This past weekend, I headed up to Schaumberg, IL for the annual Stitches Midwest expo. My cuz, Jen, lives nearby so it was also a chance to hangout with fam & fellow knit-crazy. <br /><br />This was my second year in attendance and another chance to support some of my favorite vendors: Signature NeedleArts, Miss Babs Yarns, Creatively Dyed Yarns, Habu Textiles, and Webs. My first Stitches event was Stitches East in Baltimore a few years ago. And although I enjoy the Midwest locale, the event didn't quite "wow" me like that first one. Either I'm getting jaded or just anticipating the Rhinebeck festival in October. Anywho...... none of that stopped me from enjoying some stash enhancement.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/THRyu0OBSsI/AAAAAAAABVs/GDtoaW1Y334/s1600/007.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/THRyu0OBSsI/AAAAAAAABVs/GDtoaW1Y334/s320/007.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509154392797956802" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/THRy-RI0OHI/AAAAAAAABV0/48g5ZumU5jY/s1600/006.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/THRy-RI0OHI/AAAAAAAABV0/48g5ZumU5jY/s320/006.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509154658258794610" /></a><br /><br />My favorite purchases by far were Signature's Sock Blockers (that feature the rare ability to hang over your shower rod) and a couple tshirts that tout my love for the hobby (I did say I am a knit-crazy......).<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/THR0qTGr7fI/AAAAAAAABV8/pilF-CN4qhw/s1600/008.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/THR0qTGr7fI/AAAAAAAABV8/pilF-CN4qhw/s320/008.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509156514212605426" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/THR016bYHoI/AAAAAAAABWE/XDjOrkX9rYQ/s1600/013.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/THR016bYHoI/AAAAAAAABWE/XDjOrkX9rYQ/s320/013.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509156713746931330" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/THR0_mzpKEI/AAAAAAAABWM/vVEHKKvmiX4/s1600/011.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/THR0_mzpKEI/AAAAAAAABWM/vVEHKKvmiX4/s320/011.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509156880278693954" /></a><br /><br />Jen and I both started new projects at the hotel on Saturday night (yep, knit-crazy)that should be done just in time for the trek to Rhinebeck. Until next time........happy knitting!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11396460760981826515noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3227627858704744732.post-70530555453549115602010-08-14T19:19:00.000-07:002010-08-14T19:57:37.873-07:00Yarn As DecorI am lucky enough to have a dedicated knitting room in the house. Well actually, it's a knitting-slash-guest-slash-exercise-slash-TV room. Since the TV is most often tuned to HGTV, the decor changes very frequently. But one thing never changes - the decor is focused on my love of yarn & knitting. Here's the latest layout.<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TGdQrRaQVZI/AAAAAAAABVM/2K0UXPPU5GA/s1600/010.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TGdQrRaQVZI/AAAAAAAABVM/2K0UXPPU5GA/s320/010.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505457773821842834" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TGdQ143krII/AAAAAAAABVU/VfN2mTpRYV4/s1600/006.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TGdQ143krII/AAAAAAAABVU/VfN2mTpRYV4/s320/006.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505457956212485250" /></a> <br /><br /><br />My favorite part has to be the "yarn planters" and open baskets that keep my stash in sight. After last winter's snowstorms & the most recent freak thunderstorms, I've learned to appreciate the ability to shop from my own stash when the weather turns bad. <br /><br />Speaking of stash - this week has offered multiple opportunities for enhancements. Knit Happens is closing its doors and A Tangled Skein hosted their popular "Friday the 13th" sale. Willpower kept me away from both events but I decided to use my Fibre Space birthday gift certificate from knitsis Ava for these goodies: <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TGdUEjFdT6I/AAAAAAAABVc/5K4un7dtlDI/s1600/002.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TGdUEjFdT6I/AAAAAAAABVc/5K4un7dtlDI/s320/002.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505461506598064034" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TGdUYl-7MJI/AAAAAAAABVk/5q6Qd4kUIIc/s1600/003.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_20yYVwb5RWE/TGdUYl-7MJI/AAAAAAAABVk/5q6Qd4kUIIc/s320/003.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505461850973352082" /></a><br />They are both Miss Babs "Yummy" HandPainted Sock Yarns. The first color reminds me of Mardi Gras colors & will make a great pair of celebration socks. <br /><br />Coming up at the end of the week is Stitches Midwest in Schaumburg, IL. Of course, I will be traveling to attend with my cuz, Jen. Meanwhile, still working on the Paper Crane Cardi. It's coming along nicely & with any luck maybe I can wear it to Stitches. Until next time - Happy knitting y'all!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11396460760981826515noreply@blogger.com3