Kissed Knitter

SAROYAN

2012-01-21T13:15:00.001-06:00

I've been knitting! I've knit two scarves from the Saroyan pattern by Liz Abinante. I used 100% super wash Merino-worsted 280 yds 4 ply 4 oz by Yarn Daze in Mallard. I used size 4 needles. LOVELY! The pattern and yarn were really nice to work with! I had the pattern before I got the yarn. A friend and I went to the Greencastle fiber event last year and I found the yarn. It was fun! Now...what should I knit next? I have more yarn that I bought at the same event.

AGAIN WITH THE LADY BUGS!

2011-11-12T07:20:00.001-06:00

Here they are again. Every year at the end of October, I can expect the return of the quiet, tiny critters to appear in my laundry room and around my windows facing southeast. They are harmless but there are so many of them they get a little messy. I don't mind much. They don't live long inside. I guess it's a little sad they are looking for a warm place to hibernate. If that's what they do.

WELCOME FALL!

2011-10-03T10:42:00.000-05:00

Like I said in my last post, I love Fall. I decided to take apart my spring wreath and make a new wreath for Fall to hang on my front porch. It was fun....I hadn't done anything creative in quite some time and I really enjoyed it. Later on in the day, my daughter and I trekked down to the nearest Orchard to check out their Fall scrumptiousness! We found all kinds of yummies. The store had pies, jellies, apples, syrups and sorghum. We decided to make an apple desert for dinner and bought a half peck of apples. I wanted to get some pumpkins to decorate my front porch. I have two urns that sit on each side of my front door and I usually stack three various sized pumpkins in each. This year I went with a large white pumpkin, a squatty pale orange pumpkin, topped off with a small orange mini pumpkin. It worked out well. The front porch looks very inviting. I'll have to take a picture and post it later. But for now I've provided a picture of the wreath I made. Watch out Martha!

Fall Flavor!

2011-09-29T16:22:00.000-05:00

I love this time of year. The weather goes from moist and sultry to cool, crisp and dry. The air is full of autumn fragrance and color is popping all over.

This year I am in the middle of taking a class, so I don't have time to do what I want What I'd like to do is knit! I do this every year. I get into the middle of my class and then wish I could spend my time doing something else.

I flit from project to project. I must be ADD. I start all these wonderful projects and get bored with them in the middle and don't complete them. Or, I get to the very end of a project and have only one more thing to do to complete it and I put it down, forever. What's wrong with me?

I am looking forward to the season. This weekend I am going to get all my fall decorations out and I might create a new wreath....we'll see. If I think I am not going to get it done before the season is over, I won't even attempt to begin.

Happy Autumn!

Cleanliness? Who's Version?

2011-09-10T16:09:00.002-05:00

I am convinced that one person's idea of cleanliness is not the same as others. So it seems this goes for companies who develop cleaning products and equipment. A few weeks ago, I used a Shark steamer on my kitchen tile floor. It wasn't the most delightful job I had ever done but it had to satisfy me at the time. Life was busy, I had just sent my babies back to college and was adjusting to the empty nest. So I was obviously nesting, cleaning everything in sight. Anyway, today I decided to get back to the kitchen floor. I steamed it first with the Shark. All the while thinking that the filth I was seeing couldn't be true! I said to myself "this modern technology has to be better than being on my hands and knees" and cursing the fact that I am not impressed by the Shark steamer one bit. Finished, I take a picture of the results. I can honestly say I am surprised and horrified!! My floor was that dirty? Come on!

I decided to go over the floor again, using a different product... Could it be the Shark was not hot enough or strong enough to shoosh out enough steam? And what about sanitization? Hmmm...let's try the wet Swiffer. I used the one that has the cleaner attached to the side so you can squirt out as much as you want to the floor area? Well, I used this over the same area thinking it would at least pick up what the steamer did not. I used the dry Swiffer pad, to begin and ended with results as equally horrific as the first. How can that be? It can't be possible that the floor was still as filthy as the first time using the steamer! Impossible!! Well the results told no lie no matter how embarrassing!

Now I am thinking surely a third go over will produce more pleasing results. So, I will try the Swiffer again with my version of a better pad to clean the floor. I put a terry cloth pad on the mop with a cloth padding layer inside. I used the liquid Swiffer floor cleaner again too. It smells pretty clean. The pad on the mop seems to be doing a pretty nice job. Or so I thought! That pad looked as if I went over the floor for the first time after a herd of elephants!

I am becoming quite discouraged thinking that my floor looks as if I have never cleaned it! Should I try a fourth go over? On my hands and knees? If I do, I don't think I'll post the results. It's embarrassing to think I've been using these products with the confidence that my floors have been getting clean and sanitized.

Beware commercial cleaning brands, I have followers and I use tags...you can find me in Google search.

The Larch of it All

2011-05-14T11:42:00.002-05:00

My first mini shawl. . .
I've been working on this poor thing ever since I was gifted this lovely yarn in January 2011. It has been picked out and restarted once and every row has been picked back and re-knit at least twice. I am trying to finish it so I can begin another...I know, yes, begin another. I am hoping this one will make me so knowledgeable that it won't take as long to knit another...of course I will use another more unfamiliar pattern.

I noticed that this pattern is just like my GPS navigator...just trust and do what it says. Put all your faith in, relax and just flow with it. I hope after doubting enough I will come to realize that my having that faith and trust will make me a better knitter. . . or driver.

TUMULTUOUS WINDS

2011-02-02T02:18:00.000-06:00

I awaken to see the clock.
It's still early in the evening.
I toss and and turn fighting for rest.
My bed is extremely comfortable.
I snuggle into the flannel covers.
The wind gusting against my windows as I drifted earlier
still begs to come in crackling the panes.
My thoughts become as tumultuous as the wind outside.
I begin to pray for my family and friends.
For family members to have the strength they need while fighting for their lives.
For friends who need prayers of strength for health, safety and happiness.
A relaxing calm comes over me.
The wind outside has subsided.
I drift into dreams.

Christmas!

2010-12-16T14:21:00.000-06:00

A friend just reminded me that it's nice to count your blessings. I actually have two friends that do that very well. I have neglected this blog. I haven't done a lot of knitting....but I am working on something. Maybe I'll post some pics as it progresses. I will have more time to devote to knitting as I am not signing up for any more college classes.....I know, some may look at that with dismay, but really, you have to look at your situation sometimes. I've taken a hard look at mine and determined that I would never get my return on my efforts of what I would hope to be the outcome of finally achieving such a feat. It really, honestly, would not change anything in my life drastically enough to put the time and effort toward it, not even monetarily. I find that I like to take courses that are directed at learning more specific information. I also know that the internet, library and bookstores are places to find out what you want to know....ultimately, that's what the paper from college really tells people....you can learn. Yeah, maybe I have some weak spots that might benefit from a college class or two...I am not opposed to taking a class here and there. I just can't devote the time to getting a degree....I've figured it up, I'd be retired by the time I received it. Then what?

Oh well, now that my final is over I am planning what I will do with my time. Some knitting, maybe some sewing, blog journaling, spending more time with good friends, some working out....ok, a lot of working out! I'm ready for it.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Happy 24th Anniversary

2010-07-08T20:40:00.007-05:00

"It's been three good years!" is what my husband always says when asked how many years we've been married. I have yet to figure out just what that means. In my eyes, it's been 24 good years! My husband has been very good to me over the years and I am so happy he is a part of my life. I can only hope he feels the same about me. We have two beautiful girls to show for it. They are good girls.

We celebrated our 24th with a weekend trip to St. Louis. We stayed at the Chase Plaza Hotel which was across from Forest Park, a 130 acre park! It was amazing. We drove through it to check it out and there were a lot of newly married couples having their wedding pictures made at various spots in the park. We went into the Art Museum at the park. It was filled with lots of beautiful interesting pieces. After the park tour, we found a lovely restaurant within walking distance of the hotel. We decided to order a pitcher of Sangria to cool off and then we had a scrumptious dinner. After dinner, we took a cab downtown to The Big Bang to watch the duelling pianos. Then we watched the fireworks. After all, we were married on the 4th. It was fun. The next day we had a great breakfast at a place called Crepes and then we went to watch the Cardinals play. It was hot Don! But it was fun. The weekend was great and very special to spend that time with him. I love him.

This is my hubby thinking what a good decision he made 24 years ago! :)

April Showers Bring May Flowers

2010-05-08T12:58:00.001-05:00

Well, here is May, Mother’s Day even. Not much going on here. Still taking a class, but I intend to take a break until Fall so maybe I can start knitting again for a bit. I have some baby stuff to prepare. I noticed this last year, but again this year, the peonies in my yard are beginning to finally bloom, just in time for a pretty bouquet for mother’s day. I am excited. I look forward to them every year. I like to fix them up in vases with Hosta leaves. Makes for a very pretty arrangement. Well, just wanted to check in to let you know I was still here.

It's March!

2010-03-18T21:46:00.004-05:00

Well, now it's March. Hope everyone had a Happy St. Patrick's Day! Not much going on. It's been pretty boring around here. Spring is starting to show some signs of attempting to show itself. So, things are starting to thaw out. The schools are beginning their Spring break sessions. We are planning a trip to Las Vegas! I hope we have a good time. I've never been there. I've been told there is a lot to do there. I don't plan to do a lot of gambling, unless I win :P

I have not been knitting because I am still taking classes and I feel guilty if I spend any free time on knitting rather than studies. But, I am starting to feel the guilt turn a 180. I would most certainly rather be knitting. I have to master a pair of socks. It's just a given.

Oh well, just really wanted to check in. Wish I had something more interesting to post, like a nice finished object!

Maybe next month.

February Cha Chu Cha Cha Cha

2010-02-02T21:08:00.003-06:00

Well, It's February. I've begun another class at WKU. It takes a lot of my free time that I used to use knitting. I kinda like taking the classes but I kinda don't. I don't like the way I have to stay on schedule to get the classwork done or I get behind. If I didn't work full time, I guess it would be ok. I don't know how these kids do it, working, going to school, they take more hours than I do. But they probably don't work full time, most of them anyway. There is no humanly way possible. Anyway, I just wanted to post something, anything. I don't want to ignore my blog. However, it was set up originally to log my knitting objects and since I don't have any projects going right now, I have to write about what is going on. Work and studying. I am also following my youngest daughter around the region watching her play club volleyball. That's my boring life right now. I wonder.....does the weather have something to do with this feeling of boredom? When the weather is nice, who has time to blog? Oh well. Hope everyone has a wonderful Valentine's Day!

HAPPY 2010!

2010-01-09T18:12:00.004-06:00

Happy New Year everyone! I hope this new year brings me more time to knit. I began a project on my vacation during Christmas and if I had not ran out of yarn, had a few needle cable breaks, and not had to frog it once, I might be finished with it. I am knitting the Twisted Cable Neckwarmer. I am using a yarn that looks a little thicker than what the pattern recommended but it still looks nice. As soon as I get a photo I will post it on this blog. I am hoping to have time to knit more. I am once again taking another college class. I've also embarked on some wellness activities. There just isn't enough hours in the day to do all the things you actually want to do versus what you have to do. Drives me crazy!

Christmas Already!?

2009-12-17T10:32:00.003-06:00

Well here it is December! can't say I've been busy knitting. I have managed to knit a special scarf for my Godmother. I missed her birthday and when I think of all the thoughtful cards and gifts I received without fail every year on all the holidays, well let's just say she's an example. She is a very giving person. I learned that about her early on. She will always hold a special place in my heart. I hope she likes her birthday/Christmas gift. ~Sorry no picture. (Made from grey misty alpaca and lighter grey kid mohair/handwash gently in cold water)

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

2009-11-27T12:18:00.002-06:00

Thanksgiving of a few extra days off work! My husband and girls, my extended family and relatives, my friends, life. I am thankful for so many blessings in my life. I wish all a happy and safe holiday!

OUT OF THE SHADOWS

2009-10-19T10:19:00.002-05:00

Ok, so it's been awhile since I've paid any attention to my blog. I've been busy. I haven't even picked up a knitting needle since July. I am taking a class. It's volleyball season....well it will be over by the end of this month and work has been busy. Not that you don't deserve attention, but you're mainly a knitting blog and I have done nothing, hear me, n o t h i n g! I have surfed knitting websites and keep up with some knitting email. Ragged has created some wonderful items. I am so jealous.....she knits so well. Her work is so neat. I'd like to see her wear some of it. But I don't see her that often, maybe she does wear it.

I guess I am a one project person and right now my project is my class. That might change soon though. Not sure I'm cut out for school anymore. I know where to get info or learn how to do something if I need to. I can read anytime I want to expand my mind. I'm not stupid. I just don't have the little piece of paper that says that I've attained that bachelor degree! :) Maybe it will come in time.

2009-07-03T09:34:00.001-05:00

Happy Independence Day!
Nothing better than a three day weekend and celebrating with family and friends.

APRIL SHOWERS BRING MAY FLOWERS

2009-05-20T21:57:00.003-05:00

It's been almost two months and nothing to say, blog, report, pass along. The only thing I've been working on in knit world is a chemo cap that has turned out to be a disaster. I am certain the color is the right color. It's the type of yarn that I am not happy with. It is cotton. I tried to use a cotton yarn to knit a nice soft chemo cap. Well, for one, it was not stretchy and then it was too small. So, I guess I'll find another yarn for the cap.

I have not finished the FLS either. I am about to finish the length on it and begin the arms but I have not even picked it up since...... well, a long time. Don't know what's wrong with me. I don't really want to knit right now. Must be the transition from winter to summer or something.

I've been busy working and I made the decision to go back to school. If I can't sign up for a summer course I will begin in the Fall. But I plan to get started very soon. Just need to sign up for that first class. I have to admit, I'm a little nervous that I won't be able to do it since I have been out of that world for quite some time and I'm worried I've bitten off way more than I can chew. But, the way the economy is going, I guess it will be best in the long run. I have a feeling unless I win the lottery, I'll be working for some time longer than I planned, thanks to the hit on our 401K plans.

Although Spring came in quite chilly and rainy, we now have some very pretty flowers blooming now that it is May.

YES, I'M STILL HERE

2009-03-28T12:57:00.003-05:00

I've been working on the February Lady Sweater and am still working on it. But I haven't had anything to say to the blog. Sorry. I lead a pretty boring life lately. I have been trying to "work out" more. I have some tonage to lose. I haven't been too successful at that. But I won't give up.

I have been knocking out a few chore like things that I've let go for more than a week or so....ok so it's been piling up like on one of those shows you see where they go in and the house is packed with junk. I can say I only have a few areas that look like that. And to think I laugh at those people and wonder how they let it get that far. But I can truly understand. But I've got to get a grip. If I don't it will spread to more than just a few areas and then I'll be the one someone is sitting on their couch watching in disbelief and thinking how can you let it get that far!

Anyway. No pictures, no interesting conversation...until I get this damn sweater finished. Oh and my other chores of course. As my friend Ragged says, "One bird at a time". And trust me. It is one bird at a time.

DEAR BLOG,

2009-02-13T22:14:00.007-06:00

I apologize for the neglegence of words and photography. I haven't had a lot of thoughts to share, much less projects or photos. But, I have managed a project of late. You see, our area was hit a couple of weeks ago with ice and snow, mostly ice. It took power out for a lot of the community's population and for some, it's still out. The wonderment of every surface of nature encased in an ice crystal made for some interesting pictures such as the one above. The storm also afforded some time to spend on knitting a quick project. Proof below.

So Blog, I hope you accept my apologies. Surely you know what it's like to be at a loss for words.

Darkside Cowl, designed by Sarah Fama

Kissed Knitter's knitted version

MAIL CALL!

2009-01-24T16:58:00.003-06:00

This year on my birthday, I received a nice birthday card and gift certificate to The Loopy Ewe from my special friend Ragged. It took me several trips to the Loopy Ewe website to determine what I wanted to spend my gift certificate on. I finally decided on the Toe-Up Socks pattern by Anne Berk from Shibuiknits and a skein of fingering weight merino wool yarn in Antique Jeans colorway from Claudia Hand Painted Yarns. Once the decision was made I had the terrible wait for the mail to come. I found the package this afternoon on my doorstep. I am so excited! Friday I had the itch to knit so bad that on my lunch break from work I visited our local Hobby Lobby store. They had some Bernat Alpaca Natural Blends on sale. I bought a few skeins with a project in mind and snuck them into the house without my hubby knowing. I've sat all morning purusing Ravelry trying to decide what to knit next. Like I said....I had something planned for those two skeins of Bernat I bought, but it's all so overwhelming...I start projects and never finish them. I buy more yarn and patterns and never use them. I do finish a few things here and there. But I want to move on to more complicated stuff. I feel like if I can't finish what's on my needles now, how am I going to knit something more complicated? The choices of what to knit with what yarn is so overwhelming, I find myself just looking at all the possiblilities rather than actually knitting. Ragged is so talented with her hobby. She always has something on the needles and usually finishes her projects and has some of the prettiest knitted projects I've seen. She's so good at it. I'm jealous. So what! If it weren't for her I wouldn't even be getting this excited over a package with a skein of yarn coming in the mail...I love it!!!

Somethin' Squared

2009-01-02T09:11:00.008-06:00

I can't believe I finished another project! My knit mojo is back. I am already looking forward to beginning another project. I have a few projects that need to be finished, but I will get to them... someday.

I wanted to knit my dad another hat. The one I knitted for him two year's ago(?) has become almost felted from the wear in the weather (he farms). I thought he could use an alternate. I decided to use Ann Budd's Book of Patterns to begin the hat and I used a hemmed edge. I wanted to try something new. It was a little difficult to do. I don't think I matched up the stitches quite right. When I decided to do the decreases, I went surfing for information because I wasn't entirely sure how to do it. I found Booklyn Tweed's Turn a Square hat pattern. (I love his stuff!)

I liked the way the yarn's colorway made a camouflage pattern and I love the way the decreases produced the striped look. I think I could have began the decreases a little earlier, but I was so afraid of knitting the hat too small. Overall I am pleased with the way it turned out. Somethin' different. Thanks Brooklyn!

Needle: US 5 / 3.75 mm
Yarn: Elizabeth Austen Andes, 165.0 yards in stash, 0.5 skeins = 82.5 yards (75.4m)
Purchased from: Knit Witts Yarn Shoppe in Evansville, Indiana

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

2009-01-01T11:14:00.002-06:00

Here's to a new year of promises and more knitting!

Knit on!

BELIEVE! KNITTING IS GOING ON!

2008-12-27T14:04:00.004-06:00

It took a vacation to get a project done. But I have been knitting, roaming Ravelry, stalking blogs, just not posting. I have had not much to say actually. Just been trying desparately to finish a project. I have knitted a scarf from some Peace Fleece - Red and these Solar Mitts. My sister recently moved from Florida back to her home state and needed some warm clothing. So I started the mitts a few days before Christmas thinking I would actually get them done, but I did finish them today. Since Christmas the weather has been uncharacteristically warm (in the 70's today) so fortunately, she has not needed them. Hopefully, I will have the time to finish the February Lady sweater that I have started, more than once.

Solar Mitts - Rowan Classic Accessories

Alpaca with a Twist Temptation

'TIS THE SEASON

2008-12-09T11:27:00.003-06:00

I get this way every year. I get pretty excited about the prospect of decorating the house and making it warm and cozy, excited about getting caught up in the season of giving, excited about bringing good cheer to my family, friends and some neighbors. But after I get started, hear the girls fight over trimming the tree, fight with my beloved over how the outside should be decorated. Fret over my gift list, mull over the food I'd like to have around for the holidays, I just lose my momentum. Plus I work full time so that really gets to me at this time of year. Always a lot of year end stuff to finish up. I guess it's just overwhelming or something. But I want to be excited and festive. I want to feel like a kid again. I guess it's my own fault but why do I let it get me down? I just feel like I don't have enough time. In a way, I guess I don't.

I haven't started any Christmas knitting. The way I knit, it's too late to even begin a Christmas gift in hopes of finishing it in time. That's depressing. (I have a good friend who might like a nice soft scarf.)

Ok, I resolve to come out of this funk. Maybe some Christmas spirits would help!

(This post is in response to friends wanting to see a new post. Sorry, this is why I haven't posted.)

RETURN OF THE LADY BUGS!

2008-10-31T19:02:00.006-05:00

Every year at this time, my laundry room fills with lady bugs. They've been flying around the house. They are so cute, so harmless, I just let them wonder. Unfortunatley they eventually die. I wonder why they gather in my laundry room?

Well, it's hallows night and we've had a few trick or treaters. It's now 7:00 pm and I'm guessing we'll get maybe one or two more strays and that will be it. They usually start around 6:00 and done by 7:00. Halloween is not anything like when I was kid. The streets were so packed with people in the neighborhood it took at least 3 hours to get around. I was never in before 9 pm on Halloween night. I guess the little tykes still have a good time anyhow.

Happy Halloween!

RETURN OF THE WOOL

2008-10-12T11:24:00.009-05:00

Ok, I admit, my obsession with knitting tapered this summer. After trying ONCE AGAIN, to knit socks, I became disheartened and disinterested. So, this weekend, I had some free time to myself and Ragged and I decided to head south to a nearby town to check out a few yarn shops. I thought sure, I'll go, look and feel but I really don't think I'll feel the urge to want to knit much less purchase. I didn't feel like investing yet more $$$ for the ever growing yarn stash that keeps growing because I never start or finish a project. Well, I should have known better. Yarn is so addicting. You walk into a place and are greeted with friendly people who are eager to help you with anything you desire. The walls and crates of yarn filling the store just beg to be touched. Once you touch, you start thinking, ok... maybe I could do this one project. It won't hurt to try. It can be ripped out if it doesn't work out and the yarn used for some other project. Well then the possibilities just overwhelm you and before you know it, your addicted. Yes, addicted. Addicted to the possibilities of enhancing your wardrobe with something stylish. Addicted to final accomplishment. Well, here's what had me at first feel.

I went with a pattern in my purse, the February Lady Sweater. With the craze of swing jackets and sweaters, I thought this would be a great addition to my work wardrobe (provided I could finish it before the cold season ends and the fashion changes.) Ragged and I stopped at a quaint shop called Enchanted Yarn & Fiber located in Russellville, KY. The owners were very nice and the shop is actually getting an addition it was a very nice place. I bought some Peace Fleece, Sheplova Mushroom, DK to knit my sweater project. Bought some buttons for some neckwarmers I plan to knit too and a book that had a pattern in it that I've been looking for and yes, plan to knit. All sorts of treasure were purchased. We then moved on to another shop in Bowling Green, Kentucky called Crafty Hands. I bought yet more yarn (Alpaca with a Twist, Temptation) to knit some fingerless mits. I can't wait. I can't wait to finish all these projects! Yes, I've started on the Frebruary Lady Sweater pattern and, yes, I'm as addicted as ever!

Purchases made after a fun day shopping with Ragged.

THE LURE OF CINEMA

2008-10-04T08:59:00.008-05:00

Ok, I don't usually gush over movie stars but every once in a while, one will grab my attention and I become enamoured. For instance, Robert Redford. When I was a teen and even now, I just thought he was the greatest thing on the screen. Watching him was bliss. I even had dreams with him in it. I love to watch his movies. Well, he's the only movie actor that I can say affected me the way he did until I saw 10:30 to Yuma. Russell Crowe. He's always facinated me with his deep voice, accent and eyes. But until I saw this movie, I didn't really think him to be, well dreamy, sexy I guess. He wasn't all that in this particular movie until the last couple of scenes. Oh my gosh!! He took my breath away. Something he did with the character just put him into a different light for me. I went to bed thinking what a hottie! He's up there with my Robert Redford, just younger. He might even be close to my age. And he knits! What else could you ask for?

Click here to see what I'm talkin' about!

BEING NOSEY

2008-09-21T10:56:00.006-05:00

Have you ever followed the link on the header of a Blogger's blog that indicates you can move to the next blog to view? You've seen it, NEXT BLOG>> Occasionally I will click the link to see where it takes me and to see what interesting blogs are out there in cyberspace. Look what I found! I found a blog with the following text and links. I just copied and pasted it here. Hope the blogger I copied it from doesn't mind.

A New Handbag Site....

Handbag Planet is celebrating the opening of their new site with a contest!...

Win a Free Handbag

Something kind of neat about this contest is if you don't like the bag that is featured for giveaway, you can choose a different one to try to win.

So take a look and if you see a bag you like, enter for a chance to win!

Looking for that perfect purse is such a hassle. I know I've been looking for a while for the perfect bag, but haven't found it yet. Maybe I'll win one.

LABOR DAY HOLIDAY WEEKEND

2008-09-01T11:18:00.004-05:00

Not a whole lot has been going on. My daughter came home from college, my sistern and hubby come in from Florida for a visit. We were pretty lazy Friday night, went out to eat after work. My youngest had a volleyball game on Saturday out of town. I heard they played some awesome games. We chose not to attend this out of towner. Saturday we stopped over to mom's for a light breakfast and visit with her, dad and my sister and brother-in-law. Then I went home and tried to do some cleaning. I managed to do some laundry and got my floors cleaned up. Sunday we went to church then to a couple of cookouts. I thought Ragged and I were going to visit a yarn shop today, but haven't heard from her. If we don't do that, I'm just going to hang around today. I'm kinda tired anyway. I haven't really felt all well this weekend. But I do want to get rested before I have to go back to work. I'm not looking forward to going back to work.....I think I'm ready for a vacation. Unfortunately I don't have but a few days left to take. :(

SO THE SEASON BEGINS TO TURN

2008-08-23T09:13:00.003-05:00

Well, summer is coming to a slow end. I can see the leaves beginning to turn and some of those are even fluttering to the ground. I can't tell if it's because it's a little dry from a lack of rain or fall really is approaching. It seems time does pass fast.

Well, I haven't blogged much this summer, all of three to four entries. Nothing exciting happening here. Not much knitting going on either. But I have discovered something about myself. Maybe it's not really a discovery as much as it is an admittance. I like learning to do new things, but as soon as it becomes more difficult than I think it should be, I panic and back off. I've been told I don't give myself enough credit when I think I can't do something. In reality, I think I'm afraid to try to trudge on. Afraid of that possibility of failure. I'd rather quit before I discover I can't accomplish. I feel like I always learn enough to be dangerous with the information. But really, how do you know if you've finished learning whatever it is and that you are now just trying to put your own spin or improvision on what you've learned. I have to admit, that's what I've been doing with my knitting. I mean, I know I haven't learned it all but the basic stithes have been learned and when I look at patterns I think I might like to knit, I think to myself "I'd like it except that sleeve or neckline" - I would rather knit a different type of sleeve or neckline on that. And so, then I think, "oh I can't do that, heck I've yet to finish a sweater or a sock." I've begun those things but not finished them. Hence, the lack of confidence that I can. I think I have some ADD to go along with that although that's a self diagnosis. I don't like realizing my imperfections. Damn!

LET THE SEASON BEGIN!

2008-08-04T22:57:00.003-05:00

Well, it's that time of the year again. Volleyball. Every weekend in August will be filled with driving anywhere from 30 minutes to 3 hours to a destination to play volleyball. My daughter's high school has a very agressive game schedule. Why you ask for such a small high school? It produces the area's most competitive players. Will the D1 sports programs look our way? Only if you whistle and snap your fingers and wiggle your index finger. The high school aspires to become a team that can compete with at least the two top high school volleyball teams of the state, let alone possibly the nation. I've seen our little program grow quite a bit in the past five or six years and the girls that have gone through have worked extremely hard for their achievements thus far. I have a few more years to watch and I am certain the girls will make us proud. We actually are scheduled to play, in regular season, the two top schools of the state and I am looking to hopefully surprise them. If anything, the girls will get a taste of what hey can be. I can't wait!

CHECK OUT THOSE FEET!

2008-06-23T21:30:00.006-05:00

Do you see the feet on that avatar? Yeah, that's right, the one over there to the right of this page. They just don't seem porportionate to her body. That girl don't need no fins! I will just say that the socks I'm knitting right now for 2008 Summer of Socks will not fit those feet. Happy sock knitting. I started a sock thinking it would be finished by the time we returned from our vaction exploring Virginia. I'm still knittin' on it. GRRRRR. I am determined to have a pair by the time this fest ends and they will fit somebody!

The Awesomeness of America

2008-06-12T18:52:00.011-05:00

One day while in Virginia we decided to take the tour through Washington D.C. It's an awesome experience to see the massive monuments, some made entirely of marble, some made of bronze and others of various stone.

Iwo Jima Memorial

Arlington National Cemetary

Library of Congress

Capitol Building

White House

Yes, Virginia, there is Yarn!

2008-06-11T20:35:00.006-05:00

Not far from where we were lodging in Virgina, there was a small town called Harrisonburg. We decided to drive into that town to do some esplorin'. While driving around the streets of downtown Hburg, I spied an interesting structure to photograph. And yes, we happened across a store with yarn. It had a lot more material and buttons than yarn. I didn't really find anything I couldn't live without. As we walked around town further, we spotted a ribbon cutting ceremony in progress. The season's kickoff for the town's farmers market. It brought back some haunting memories that I am sure a few of my readers will relate. The town had a coffee shop and restaurant. But it really didn't take us long to see all there was to see. The quilt museum was closed, only open certain days at certain times.

SkyLine Drive

2008-06-10T18:42:00.005-05:00

After a quick stop at the Blue Ridge Pottery, we headed toward Skyline Drive. While winding up and down the drive, we saw a doe feeding her fawn. It was an exciting sight to behold. I can't believe I caught it with the camera. The view from the mountains into the Shenandoah Valley were awesome.

Nation's Capitol

2008-06-08T20:14:00.011-05:00

Guess where I've been? I've been on vacation. Yes, again! My hubby and I had a nice kidless vacation together. We went to Virginia and played golf, drove Skyline Drive and toured Washington D.C. We stayed at the Massanutten Ski Resort located in McGaheysville in the Shenandoah Valley and also toured the sourrounding small towns. It was a lot of fun. Oh, I started a sock too!

On our way to Skyline Drive, we stopped to visit the Blue Ridge Pottery

I'M GOING TO KNIT SOCKS!

2008-04-30T21:33:00.006-05:00

I can't believe I just did this. I signed up for the Summer of Socks 2008. I have yet to finish a pair of socks (that can actually be worn). You might remember the "SOB" Sock. I have no idea what compelled me to sign up. I guess I thought if I signed up for it that I would force myself to actually follow a pattern to knit two socks alike to the finish. Maybe, just maybe I'll get at least one finished pair out of this. You see, I seem to have some kind of block about knitting socks. I really, really want to knit socks, not actually socks, but footies. (My daughters only wear footies.) But when it comes to actually knitting them, I don't really know what I'm doing. I look over the pattern, try to determine the proper amount of stitches I need to use for the correct size sock I want to knit. Then, I decide if I want to attempt the magic loop method or the method using 2-circular needles or just stick with the traditional four-double points. The double points don't appeal to me. Too many needles to fiddle with and keep up with and to keep stitches on. I only have two sets and they aren't the right size for socks. My preference for some reason is the 2 circs. I ask myself, how can I have a preference if I have never actually knitted a pair of socks? I'm getting pretty anguished over the fact that I feel like I can't knit them. I just want a very, very simple, easy, easy pattern for an 8 1/2 sized foot. I don't know what my problem is. I feel weird about it. I feel like I'm making them harder than they really are. I have actually knit one pair. They were so skinny and long in the foot part. I've yet to find anyone who can get their foot into them. They were footies. Ok, enough with the rant of my sock delimma. I am hoping this Summer of Socks will be my salvation. I wonder if it will be ok to get a head start. I have a feeling it will take me more than two weeks to knit a pair.

These were my first ever "skinny" footies knitted.

UHOYUH, GARSH!

2008-04-15T19:52:00.008-05:00

Vacation is a wonderful time. Time to spend with family and friends, kick back and be a kid! We had a great time in Orlando at the Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, Hollywood and Epcot. There was a lot of walking, waiting in line and riding on rides. Not to mention eating. We topped it all off with a day at the beach, 'cause you can never return from vacation without a sunburn! It was a lot of fun. I can't wait until my next vacation. But I think I'll wait until I recover from this one.

I had started on the Ice Queen before I left for vacation and am almost finished with it. Just a few more rows to knit with some beads.

WALK FOR THE CURE

2008-03-27T22:49:00.011-05:00

Anyone who is close to me knows that I normally do not ask. It pains me to come out of my shell to do so. But sometimes I surprise myself. So, here goes.

On May 17, family members and I will be walking together as a team in Walk to Cure Diabetes benefiting the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.

I will be walking as a member of The Pink Panthers team, and would appreciate any support that you could give for this very worthwhile cause.

Since there are 18 million Americans affected by diabetes, including my niece with type I diabetes, I believe that my work with JDRF is important and well worth the effort. I am particularly proud of the fact that JDRF has provided more funding for diabetes research (over $900 million since 1970) than any other non-governmental agency in the world.

I hope you will consider sponsoring my participation in this event; any amount will help the work of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. Visit my walk web page if you would like to donate online or see how close I am to reaching my personal goal or follow this link to make a donation: Make donation. If you would like to send a check the information can be found on my walk web page. Your donation will be tax deductible.

Thank you for considering this request for your support.

His Ribbed Scarf

2008-03-16T22:06:00.002-05:00

My beloved requested a scarf and with delight I immediately went through my stash to find just the right yarn. I knitted a 2x2 rib with Reynolds Andean Alpaca Regal Luxurious bulky alpaca.

Snow 2008

2008-03-16T21:57:00.003-05:00

These are few pictures I took of our last snow.

The Joys of Blogging

2008-03-04T21:32:00.005-06:00

I've been awarded in a way that's special, by someone special. So now I pay it forward and even though I am not supposed to list the one who listed me, I will. She's one of my very favorites and will be listed first. So disqualify me.

Now onto the rules: The rules for the “You Make My Day” award are to re-present it to 10 people whose blogs bring you happiness and inspiration and make you feel happy about blog land. Let them know through email or by posting a comment on their blog so they can pass it on. You can't choose the person who chose you.

Ragged Around the Edges: She's very interesting and often writes about what goes through my mind but never really say out loud. I most often can relate to everything she writes about and and also find out new, very interesting and wonderful things about her. She takes exceptional photographs and knits really well. She's a very good friend of mine who got me started in this knitting and blogging stuff. She's a much better blogger than I. She has honed writing skills. She's thoughtful, giving, gracious....I could go on. She's a great friend.

I Live on a Farm: She's delightfully scumptious! She's loving, compasionate and extremely talented. I enjoy reading her entries and viewing her photographs.

Needlefingers: She's one of a few bloggers I've actually met. From what I hear and what I've read on the blog scene, she's the best sock knitter I know.

Finally, you know who you are. I like to read his blog cause he's got an interesting and humorous view of things that I can honestly relate to. He's got a great sense of humor. I like his pics of kitties.

That's it. I don't have 10 to list.

WORKS IN PROGRESS

2008-02-26T19:26:00.004-06:00

I have to say, I don't like going so long without dropping a note on the blog scene. But I keep thinking if I don't have a picture to post with my words, it will be boring. I also think I have to post about knitting. After all, it is a blog devoted to knitting.

I am working on some projects. I've recently frogged the vest I started with my grey heather Caron's Simply Soft. I am now knitting a cardigan sweater with it (sweater #3 attempt with this yarn). We'll see how it goes. The pattern calls for knitting it in 3 panels. I have the back panel finished and ready to begin the left side.

I also have a sock on the needles. As you know, I have a hard time with socks. I have yet to finish a pair. The first pair I knitted were too narrow to fit even a ski foot. Therefore they are unusable. I started another sock and got to the closing of the toe and have yet to finish it. Since then, I've started yet another and put it down to start the jacket. I was trying to knit the sock from the toe up thinking it would be easier. But so far, socks in general are just hard. I'm destined to knit only scarves and wash cloths.

Well, that's it. My boring post. It's snowing and I'm watching American Idol. Hope your evening is enjoyable.

ICY BEAUTY

2008-02-11T20:57:00.001-06:00

It's been snowing and sleeting since after noon on Monday. Snow makes everything look so beautiful and sparkly? This was taken around 8:30 p.m. Monday evening.

A FALSEHOOD

2008-02-03T20:15:00.000-06:00

Ok. I lied. I said I'd post a picture of the ruffly twisted scarf (Angora Times Two Pattern) that I knitted for a friend for her birthday. Well, I forgot to take the picture. I gave it to her without getting a picture of it. She said she liked it though. She even wore it to work last week. The yarn was so soft it just beckoned to be snuggled into. Sorry I lied.

AMERICAN IDOL

2008-01-16T21:00:00.000-06:00

It's unbelievable! It's utterly amazing! It's astonishing! It's curious! I've watched the auditions for American Idol for the past three seasons and I am flabbergasted at the number of people who think they can sing and horrifically and obviously can not. Do these people not hear themselves? I don't sing aloud. I don't dare. I can hear myself and it's not musical. It's just disbelief for me how some of those who can't sing can't hear it themselves? Don't they have friends that tell them the truth? I can see how some wouldn't hear their friends even if they did tell them the truth. I do get a lot of knitting done when I watch the show. I am currently working on a ruffled scarf using two colors in MODA DEA Dream yarn. It was given to me as a birthday gift and now I am knitting something from it for that person's birthday. A picture will be posted when it is finished.

We are due some snow the next couple of days. Not sure of the accumulation, but I wish it would be a storm. I'm ready to be home bound for a while so I can catch up on knitting, posting, cleaning and organizing.

...AND TO ALL A GOOD NIGHT

2007-12-25T19:28:00.001-06:00

Believe it or not, I have been knitting. I have knitted several neck warmers for gifts and am almost finished with them. Yes, I know, Christmas was today, however, I won't see my friends until New Year's eve. Speaking of Christmas, how was yours? Mine was great. Every year it is great. I prepare and stress like a fool and it always turns out well. It would be nicer if the stress would stay out of it. Oh well. My husband gave me an awesome swift for a gift. It is really, really nice. I didn't elaborate when I told him my wish and in fact, if I had purchased this item for myself, I am sure it would not have been as nice as the one he gifted. ~ Thanks babe! I received a lot of other gifts as well and am excited about them all and can't wait to enjoy them. Ragged gave me sock yarn, some very nice sock yarn. I can't wait for her to teach me to knit socks!
I hope your holiday was an enjoyable as mine! Happy New Year!

Neck warmer knitted from Misti Alpaca chunky using a
modified two button neck warmer pattern.

The glorious swift! It's huge!

Stockings Were Hung by the Chimney with Care...

2007-12-04T06:20:00.000-06:00

Made with Lorna's Laces, Bullfrogs & Butterflies - color poppy

And so it begins....the Christmas season is upon us. I've been fretting over Christmas gifts and have found the perfect gift. These lovely neck warmers. Actually, I was cruising around on Ravelry and found some knitters had made these lovely neck warmers, small smidge of a scarf, smidglet. As I read I learned that some were derived from the splash maker, the Pidge scarf. They were selling at a ginormous price! But, I guess the yarn is what made them so expensive. I thought to myself that I could make one of those, no problem! I could use stashed yarn too. So, I surfed the web for an unusual stitch and found this free software for the Two Button Scarf designed by Carole Wulster. I then rummaged through my stash and so far, these are what I've come up with. They were quick and easy. I really enjoyed making them. So, let the season begin!

This scarlet was made with Rowan's Ribbon Twist.

LADY BUGS IN THE LAUNDRY ROOM

2007-11-17T18:14:00.001-06:00

Skinny Scarf: Malabrigo and di'Ve Tiwi
Designed by: Kissed Knitter

It's that time of year again. The leaves are turning into brilliant colors of red, orange and yellow and look like flames of fire flicking from the tree branches lighting up the forest behind our home. The lady bugs are migrating into my laundry room. Not as many as the first year we lived in this house. They've become fewer and fewer each year. Nonetheless, they've found their way again this year. The weather is beginning to become cool, finally. The Christmas parade is this evening. There are 38 days until Christmas. Are you ready?

IT'S OCTOBER?!!

2007-10-24T19:50:00.000-05:00

Well, it's been quite a while since my last post. I've been a busy person and could go on and on about what I've been doing and I think I will.

In July my husband and I took a very nice vacation with some long time friends. We visited Los Cabos, Mexico. We actually stayed in an all inclusive hotel located in San Juan Los Cabos. We had a great time lying by the pool, sipping cool drinks and relaxing. We would spend the mornings after breakfast at the pool, grab a snack around lunch and go out for dinner. By the time dinner was over we were ready to crash (yes, old fogies!) We would go to the beach or sit and listen to the bands that might be playing at the hotel. Needless to say, I gained a good 10 pounds before leaving Mexico. We had a great time. No knitting was done on vacation.

When we returned it was time to concentrate on getting my college Freshman (I'll call her Sweatpea)ready for college. She got a job after high school graduation and I really didn't get to see her much during the summer. I guess that's the way it's supposed to work....the gradual separation of the apron strings. Didn't like it much. She is now settled in her dorm and getting along pretty well. She's been home several times and it seems like there is never enough time to be with her or see much of her. Seems like the time is just too short. Anyhow, by the end of August kids were back in school. I miss having her around. I don't miss her scrapping with her sister. A little knitting was done. I knitted a few washcloths and a trinket bowl for her vanity stash.

My youngest daughter (Rainbow) entered high school as a freshman. She's been very busy taking after her older sister playing volleyball. We've been busy traveling on weekends to games, mostly out of town. She had a great season. She played on the Freshman and JV team. She got play briefly in one of the regional games with Varsity and lettered. She's a pretty good little player. Our Varsity is going to state this year and have a chance to get farther than any other team from previous years attempts. State games are this weekend. She won't be playing but she'll be there to cheer them on. Her Freshman team actually could have a chance at going to state by the time they reach Varsity play. I can't wait! Did I mention she's a left handed, jump serving setter? AI little knitting was done during the weekend treks out of town. I knitted the skinny scarf and began Teva Durham's mock cabled capelet. The yarn for that was purchased on a quick stop in a LYS on my way to one of the volleyball games in a nearby community. It was a lot cheaper than the yarn called for in the pattern, yet still expensive. I got two capelets out of it....more on that below.

The beginning of October was dry and hot! I was so looking forward to Fall, cool, crisp weather and colorful leaves. No such luck! It was HOT DON! I was invited to visit with my college roommate at her newly finished cabin located along Nolin Lake in Leitchfield, KY. It was actually about an hour and half drive to the location from my home. On a Friday afternoon, after work, I drove through the winding roads looking for colorful leaves through the late day sunshine. It looked as if it should have been a chilly day. But it wasn't. But it wasn't steaming either. I had packed my swimsuit because we were going to boat on the lake on Saturday. Guess what, it was a gorgeous, summer day! We had a great time, we slept late, packed a lunch and gear and took off on the gator to load the boat. One on the boat she showed me the area and then we anchored to sit and catch up on each other's life. It was such a nice day, and nice to visit with a long time friend. Being with her is always so comfortable for me. I hope it was for her too. Needless to say, no knitting was done.

Well, that's about all I've been up to. I have finished two capelets. I began the mock cables capelet but found the pattern had a few mistakes. The pattern had chart for the cable portion and it was my first time using a chart. It was daunting at first. But I had enough since to realize the chart was amiss. I wrote to get it clarified and did receive an edited pattern....but it still had a few mistakes so I made do with my novice abilities. Speaking of my novice abilities, I started that capelet using the beautiful Rowan yarn pictured above and frogged it about 6 or 7 times before finishing. My novice abilities hinders my mastering gauge. It fit, but a bit shorter than I had wanted it to be. I had enough yarn left (obviously I was supposed to double strand it but didn't) I made another with a real cable that I used in place of the chart for the mock cable and also lenghtened. I just could'nt fight that pattern again. It was a great pattern but it would've been a lot easier and more enjoyable to knit without the mistakes. Anyhow, the finished projects!

This is my version with a cable ......................................................Pattern version

WHAT IS IT ABOUT YARN?

2007-09-09T20:45:00.001-05:00

As promised, a little addition to the stash was made when I visited our LYS for a fab sale on Labor Day! Scored some Noro, Patons, Misti Alpaca and a chibi!

Here is one of the wash cloths that I knitted up for my daughter to take to college. I will be knitting up a few for her boyfriend who used one of them and liked it. I think I'll use that Patons in my stash!

Here I Am!

2007-09-02T22:27:00.000-05:00

Sorry, it's been a while since I've logged a blog. A lot has been going on this summer. After our trip to Mexico, we began to prepare my oldest daughter for college - it's her freshman year. Dropping her off wasn't as bad as I had imagined....although some deja vous did creep in from my college experience when I tried to help her unpack. She gave me the same reaction that I gave my mother when she tried to help me on that first day. When I saw it, I recognized it immediately and tried my best to back off. I think I did alright. When we finally left her, I was ready to go. She's been doing fine. Actually, the hardest part of her being away is that I can't actually see her enjoying herself.

Once she was settled, I began work on an ad booklet for my youngest daughter's volleyball team. I thought it would be easy to do this year because I had actually did last year's and thought all I would have to do was drop in the ads that weren't already there. But, all the rosters of the different teams had to be changed and some other stuff. It ended up becoming a bit rushed because I didn't give myself enough time to get it done. But it turned out pretty nice.

Now I am helping my sisters and brother plan for my dad's 70th birthday. I am in charge of making a video for the occasion. I have yet to begin. I will have a lot of pictures to scan in on the computer and it will take time. I've yet to pick out very many good pictures. Hopefully it will fall into place.

I've also been very busy as work trying to get caught up or stay caught up. My house has become very messy and not much knitting has been attempted.

As you can imagine, not much knitting has been done. I did knit about four face cloths for my daughter to take with her to college. I also knitted her a change bowl. My first bowl. It was a bit larger than I had intended. Hopefully she'll find a use for it.

I also started an oven mitt which lacks the thumb and needs to be felted before finished. This past Saturday I started a skinny scarf that I finished this morning.

I am getting excited about Monday because Ragged Around the Edges and I planned a trip to our local yarn shop which is holding a holiday sale. She called me on Saturday to let me know that another fellow knitter/blogger will be joining us. I am excited to meet her. I've heard such good things about her and she's very good at knitting socks......a sock knitting champ I believe. I think she taught Ragged to knit too.

I have some great projects planned......I just hope I can get the patterns and yarn and start on them. I am getting excited about knitting again. More on our finds later!

SUMMER TIME, SUMMER TIME!

2007-07-15T19:16:00.000-05:00

Since SP10 has finalized, I've not been diligent in posting. I've been busy working and getting ready for vacation! My husband and I are going to Mexico! San Jose del Cabo to be exact. We are going with two couples who we've been friends with for a long time. With this trip, we are celebrating our 20th wedding anniversary as well as one of the other couples. It's going to be so much fun! I'll bring back pictures to post....and maybe some yarn if I can find a shop! One of the best things about summer is VACATION!

I have been knitting! I've knitted four face cloths for my daughter to take to college as well as started a sweater and a almost finished one sock of a pair. Unfortunately, I've decided not take anything with me as it sounds like to much trouble to get through the airport, customs etc. I'm nervous enough having to use a passport for the first time.

Happy Summer!!!!

THANK YOU SP10!

2007-06-27T19:42:00.000-05:00

I arrived home from work tonight and found a package from my SP10 Pal awaiting to be opened. I was so excited! She also revealed herself and I was so happy to meet her. I had been searching the verrry loooong list of SP10 participants to find out or try to guess who my secret pal might be. I had taken some tidbits of clues from her emails to search different blogs to find her. I had even found a blog that showed pictures of the very same stitch markers that I had received from her. I have to say she put together some really awesome packages and I enjoyed her emails! She is very much a more experienced knitter than I and was very helpful to me. She even wrote two sock patterns for me to adapt to my footie fetish! (One footie almost finished!)

The reveal package contained not one, but two books by Ann Budd. These are books that I have coveted from my friend Ragged's collection. I am thankful to my Pal and admire her generosity. It has been a genuine pleasure. ~THANK YOU!

I also have been knitting some items from another book given to me by my SP10 Pal, "One-Skein Wonders". I have knitted a wash cloth and plan to knit more for my daughter to take to college. I have also finished this catch-all bowl for her to use to catch all her loose change that she thinks won't come in handy in college! Ha!

SP10 SLEUTH

2007-06-20T20:10:00.000-05:00

Ok, I confess! I can't stand it anymore! I've been trying to figure out the identity of my SP10 pal before that person actually reveals. I have been going through the SP10 list, one by one, reading blogs and websites to try to figure out my special person. At one time I thought I had figured it out and had bookmarked the page. Now I can't seem to find it. I just wanted to see if I was right. I love to try to figure things out. I am quite sure I have no clue whatsoever who it is much less make it through that very long list of wonderful knitters! I strayed many times from my quest of blogs and websites to the links from their favorite knitting blogs, sites and friends. You see the list on the SP10 don't you? That list plus all the links each one of those sites have that are related to knitting combines a great deal of knitters with presence on the net. I'm amazed! Just think about it! It's an amazing network!

One of my latest works in progress: Green Gable not so green!

WORKS IN PROGRESS

2007-06-02T20:49:00.000-05:00

I know I missed the deadline for posting about my works in progress but I thought I would go ahead and post about mine anyhow. It was kinda nice digging into my project basket. I found several things that I thought I'd misplaced or lost! It was great! I also realized that I had fewer projects on the needles than I had thought. That was a great feeling.

The booga bag was started back last Sept/Oct and what's been
completed on it so far was probably done the first two days of the beginning.

This sweater was started last November. It is a really easy pattern
from Vogue. I started it when the Grey's Knit Along
began and when I realized it was going to be too small
for the intended recipient (me), I kinda gave up on it.
I didn't know anything about gauge and still
don't. But I am going to frog this and try something else.

This baby sweater was started back in

January for a friend of mine who was

having a baby due in April. The baby

girl has been born, around the first of

April and here the gift sits, with an

unattached sleeve.

Marsha! Marsha! Marsha!

2007-05-26T11:00:00.000-05:00

SOCKS! SOCKS! SOCKS!

Check this picture out closely. Notice anything unusual? I've knitted my stitch marker into the sock! This is my first pair of socks and I must say......"FINALLY!" I've been struggling with knitting socks, particularly the heel portion. Of course, this being my first finished pair of socks, they are not perfect. The first sock of the pair has a kitchener finished toe that is perfect. The second sock of the pair has a kitchener finished toe that was done on the outside of the sock instead of the inside. How did I manage that? I haven't the slightest idea. How'd I manage to knit the stitch marker into the sock? Well, it was easy......for me. I love the style of this footie, however, it is a child's size and my girls wear the adult size....wonder where I can find the pattern for the adult size? These are what my girls prefer...they don't really wear the regular ankle socks anymore unless it is around the house. I wish I could get the hang of knitting socks. I am going to try again with a different yarn and a different pattern and perhaps a different type heel. I wish I could find the most simplist of heel turning patterns. Wish me luck! - I'm gonna need it if I continue to try to enter the creative world of sock knitters! It's a craze I would like to experience but not quite there yet.

MY FAVORITE PLACE TO KNIT

2007-05-09T22:33:00.000-05:00

My spot is on my family room couch. It affords a nice spot in front of the TV where I can also watch Amercan Idol, Lost, Boston Legal, Grey's Anatomy, Brothers and Sisters.....well the list will go on. Also there is a nice table in front of the couch that obviously holds some of my gear, magazines, needles. If you look closely, you can see my ball winder in the corner of the photo. I like to be home.

PROJECT SPECTRUM

2007-05-09T22:30:00.000-05:00

The Peonies are beginning to bloom!

My daughter's prom dress. Love the colors!

Thanks Secret Pal!

2007-04-28T23:34:00.000-05:00

I was very busy today doing several things such as watching my youngest daughter play her volleyball match, running a few errands and doing the things I needed to get done to help my oldest daughter get ready for her senior prom tonight. When I finally arrived home, I naturally checked the mail and there was a delightful surprise waiting for me. I received a package from my secret pal. I couldn't wait to tear it open. Once opened, I found the wonderful goodies pictured here. The book I had been coveting and the stitch markers were much needed. The rest, well, that's just extra goodness! (The chocolate is scrumptious!) It made me feel special. Loved it all! ~ Thanks Secret Pal!

WHAT KIND OF YARN ARE YOU?

2007-04-10T21:35:00.000-05:00

I'm Mohair. I am a warm and fuzzy type who works well with others, doing my share without being too weighty. I can be stubborn and absolutely refuse to change my position once it is set, but that's okay since I am good at covering up my mistakes.

What Kind of Yarn are You?

The Florida Wrap

2007-04-03T07:58:00.000-05:00

Finally finished! This project is a wrap I began back in September of 2006. My sister was visiting from St. Petersburg, Florida for the Labor Day Holiday. We were talking about crocheting and knitting and I showed her all of my finished knitted projects. She got excited and named a few things she would like to have. One item she named was a wrap. She said a wrap would be nice for when the weather in Florida becomes cool and for those cool restaurants. The yarn is Berroco Soft Twist in taupe. It took around 11 skeins to make. The length could have been longer. I thought it turned out ok for my first wardrobe project (other than a scarf). I made up the pattern myself after looking through knit books for the perfect stitch combinations. The pattern is free.

I'M ON VACATION!

2007-03-29T20:57:00.000-05:00

Yippeee! Since 5:18 p.m. this evening, I am officially on vacation! Goin' down south to catch some sun and R & R. I love to be on vacation. The only thing wrong with it, is that it is never enough time. Time to get my wish list accomplished. The first week is great! But I need another week to get more stuff done, catch up on that stuff that needs to be done at least once a year. Oh well, this begger is surely not going to be choosey. I'll take my camera in hopes to get some nice shots. Hopefully on the ride down south I'll FINALLY finish that Florida Wrap!
I'M ON VACATION!!!!! :)

MY FAVORITE KNITTING ACCESSORY

2007-03-23T12:42:00.000-05:00

My SP10 host has asked that we blog about our favorite knitting accessory. (There could be a prize involved too!) For me, the stitch marker would be my favorite accessory for two reasons. Stitch markers are the jewelry for knitting and are an essential tool for a knitter’s bag. I haven’t been knitting long. My pattern tastes are along the advanced level knitter however my skill level is still in the easy/beginner range. It’s kind of like shopping. I have expensive taste on a sow’s ear purse. Anyway, the items I’ve knitted rarely require the use of a stitch marker. But, I find uses for them on my own such as placing a particular number of stitches between the markers to eliminate the repetitive counting that sometimes has to be done to maintain a pattern. I have a tendency to not trust my stitching and count stitches even though they are marked. But having those shiny bobbles dangling or peeping from my stitches looks really nice on my potential garment. Hopefully it gives the illusion to others that I am knitting some elaborate piece that needs the stunning sparkle to keep me straight on where and what I am doing in the pattern or that it may give the appearance that I am a more accomplished knitter than I actually am. I like that. The only problem with stitch markers are that they tend to disappear. When I clean my house, I find them everywhere, under the couch cushions, under the couch, in my bed, laying on my nightstand, in my car and sometimes in my pockets. So you see they don’t stay around long. I was given a pair of very nice handmade markers in a swap and have already lost one. I was saddened because it was hand made with pretty beads and given to me as a gift, and it was one of a pair. They reminded me of pretty, dangly earrings, or those pretty wine glass markers that are so popular hence the jewelry of knitting. As a tool, they are handy to have for use. Whatever that use may be, the marker is one of the essential tools in a knitter’s bag. I hear men tell of the fascination of their tools….and drool when they speak of tools….well, I drool when I speak of my favorite tools for my hobby, stitch markers.

WARM & FUZZY

2007-03-08T19:21:00.000-06:00

I know, signs of spring are coming. Tiny buds are peeking from branches of trees and crocus, daffodils and hyacinth are poking through the ground. But I had to knit up a few more scarves. I finished the Misti Alpaca Ribs & Ruffles and gave it to my mom. My niece, was there when I gave it to her. She liked it and expressed an interest in having one. So, I ran home and found the pretty Nobo yarn with pink hues in my stash. She stated emphatically that pink was her favorite color. The small scarf is knitted with ruffles on each end. Very simple and only took about two hours to knit, including interruptions.

The pretty blue scarf, Ribs and Ruffle pattern, was knitted in about a week or less. As soon as I found out that a previous co-worker was leaving her post, I immediately wanted to knit something nice for her to take with her. The blue reminded me of her warm personality and pretty, sparkly blue eyes. Yes, it's almost spring but it's warm and fuzzy, like her. Who knows, maybe she'll take up knitting and knit pretties for her grandbabies.

SECRET PAL 10 QUESTIONNAIRE

2007-03-01T00:00:00.000-06:00

1. What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with? What fibers do you absolutely *not* like? Not real excited about some acrylics, some are fine.

2. What do you use to store your needles/hooks in? I keep them in their original packaging, which is becoming ratty, and then I store them in a pocket in my knitting bag.

3. How long have you been knitting & how did you learn? Would you consider your skill level to be beginner, intermediate or advanced? Knitting for about a year and my skill level is beginner to intermediate.

4. Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list? No. But I have my eye on the book One Skein.

5. What's your favorite scent? I like harvest type scents, pumpkin, spices (I am allergic to fragrance.)

6. Do you have a sweet tooth? Sinful sweet tooth! Favorite candy? Chocolate! Not crazy about hard candy.

7. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do? Sew Do you spin? No

8. What kind of music do you like? Anything but RAP Can your computer/stereo play MP3s? (if your buddy wants to make you a CD) Sure.

9. What's your favorite color(s)? Harvest type colors; pumpkin, greens, greys, yellows, browns, blues. Any colors you just can't stand? Don't care for red but I do like coral type colors.

10. What is your family situation? Married with 2 teenage girls. Do you have any pets? Have an outside golden retriever.

11. Do you wear scarves, hats, mittens or ponchos? I wear scarves, don't have any of the others, yet!

12. What is/are your favorite item/s to knit? Purses/bags, hats, scarves.

13. What are you knitting right now? On the needles I have a baby kimono sweater, an adult sweater, Booga Bag and a wrap.

14. Do you like to receive handmade gifts? Absolutely!

15. Do you prefer straight or circular needles? Bamboo, aluminum, plastic? Circulars are my fav. I use the Knit Picks needles and I like the bamboo needles.

16. Do you own a yarn winder and/or swift? Thanks to my hubby, I own a winder.
17. How old is your oldest UFO? I started a project back in September 2006 and am trying to finished before March 12.

18. What is your favorite holiday? Christmas

19. Is there anything that you collect? Pictures and dust! :) Seriously, skeins of yarn and patterns. HA!

20. Any books, yarns, needles or patterns out there you are dying to get your hands on? What knitting magazine subscriptions do you have? I am currently using some Misti Alpaca for a Ribs & Ruffles scarf. I wouldn't mind having more in other colors; red or the blue. Thanks to RaggedAroundTheEdges (as a birthday gift), I now receive Interweave Knits.

21. Are there any new techniques you'd like to learn? Eventually everything.

22. Are you a sock knitter? Not yet! But I hope to be by the end of the year. What are your foot measurements? I wear a size 8.5 shoe, medium or B width.

23. When is your birthday? January 5th

CLICKING THOSE NEEDLES!

2007-02-27T20:18:00.000-06:00

A recently finished project, Misti chunky Ribs & Ruffles Sarf.

This pattern was easy and fun to knit. I decided to begin another scarf with a different type of yarn. So far it is turning out really nice. I have to admit though, the Misti Alpaca is very luxuriously soft and scrumptious!

Boy! I've actually been busy with projects. I have a baby kimono that just needs the sleeve seamed on and the sides seamed up to be finished. I am still working on the wrap for my sis that I began last September! It is coming along so slow. I also have a sweater that I am probably half finished and that has been easy, easy to knit so far but have decided to frog because I know it is too small. This was my first gauge sensitive item that I began and I failed. No biggie the yarn was on sale and I know it can be used for something else. I am planning a wrap vest. Yes, another test in gauge. Then there is the Booga Bag I have started with some Noro and have yet to finish. There is probably a dishrag or two that haven't been finished as well. I wish I could stay home from work and knit, knit, knit. I know I've said this before, but it really is what I want to do right now.

Well, enough of my rambling...it is something I do when I don't really have much to say.

WHY MY BLOG POSTS ARE SHORT

2007-02-27T19:19:00.000-06:00

I AM 30% Extrovert, 70% Introvert

I am quite reserved. I am not afraid of social situations...But very much prefer to go it alone. And why not? I'm my own best friend!

Are You An Extrovert or An Introvert?

MY! HOW FETCHING!

2007-02-19T21:44:00.000-06:00

Finally I was able to knit up this charming yarn! BullFrogs & Butterflies in poppy. I had bought this in this color and a grey color and waited patiently for the perfect project to come my way. Fetching aren't they?

Tonight I bought more yarn when I went to knit group at our LYS. I bought a skein of chunky
Misti Alpaca in the orange color, a skein of Noro's Transitions and a skein of Patons Classic Wool Merino. I can't wait to knit these into something pretty! I have plans for the Misti Chunky Ribs and Ruffles Scarf. No plans for the Noro yet. I know, I know....I am hording my stash!

CURRENT PROJECT (cont'd)

2007-02-03T08:23:00.000-06:00

I have partially finished off my Noni Urban Adventure Bag. I still need to add the lining and work on the zipper a little more and I think I am going to knit some BIG flowers that I can felt and pin to the bag to decorate when the mood strikes. I couldn't find any pretty rings for the handles in handbag hardware anywhere in stores or on the net. Well, not anything other than the standard. So I looked at napkin rings. I found some very nice rings with colored glass beads. If I had planned better, I would have knitted the tab to fit around it. It fits, but it doesn't look as nice as I would like. I'll know better on the next bag.

On another note....what's with this new Blogger. I don't like the fact there is not a title box to type your title like on the old "create post" screen. I would like to see that added.

Also, It finally snowed here! We didn't get much, about an inch, maybe! But it was enough to enjoy the beautiful perspective that snow gives. I took a few pictures, but none do it justice.

CURRENT PROJECT

2007-01-27T16:46:00.000-06:00

My current project is a Noni Design, Urban Adventure Bag. It was an easy knit using Cascade 220 in a dark brown color. I even learned several things. I learned that I was twisting my stitches, rather, I was purling incorrectly. I try not to purl, it doesn't seem easy to me. But it really doesn't matter when you are felting because the stitching desappears. I also learned what brackets mean in a pattern. It threw me for a loop when I got to it in the pattern because I wasn't sure what it was telling me. But I had a little help from my friends. I have posted a few pictures and plan to do some needle felting on the bag and maybe add some knitted felted flowers. This will be a first for me and I am going to practice on something first. The pattern calls for decorative rings to attach the bag's handle. I found some pretty napkin rings and thought they would work well. I'll post a picture of the finished object when it is completed. For now here are some before pictures.

Uhhhhh, 1996?

2007-01-17T21:07:00.000-06:00

My 1996 Theme Song Is: Breakfast at Tiffany's by Deep Blue Something

And I said "What about Breakfast at Tiffany's?"
She said, "I think I remember the film,
And as I recall, I think, we both kinda liked it."
And I said, "Well, that's the one thing we've got."

What's" Your 1996 Theme Song?

MITT KIT SWAP 2006

2007-01-16T19:44:00.000-06:00

Exciting! I received my kit swap from my partner in Oklahoma and it was loaded with lots o' goodies! Inside the package were two skeins of Knit Picks Wool of the Andes tucked inside a very pretty bag with (forgive me I'm a novice) intarsia(?) work. It's amazing. Also included in the package, a hank of soft sock yarn from Woven N Spun, Kittenz Mittenz pattern from the same, some chocolates, some very nice stitch markers and a tape measure. I am so excited! Sock yarn....I've been meaning to give that SOB sock another try.....guess this is a sign to get started!

Thanks Swap Partner!

FINISHED OBJECTS 2006

2007-01-15T15:32:00.000-06:00

2007-01-14T01:38:00.000-06:00

SPIRAL RIB BAG

The latest finished object is the Spiral Rib Bag. It was a first for me. It was knitted as a gift for my swap partner in my latest swap. I hope she likes it. It will be filled with something luscious. More on that later.

2007-01-08T20:30:00.000-06:00

COFFEE AND YARN SWAP

Finally! I have been eagerly awaiting a package from my swap partner and it has arrived. I knew that it was arriving from New England and that they had some snow and ice right after Christmas which would delay the package. But it is finally here! It's filled with lots o' yarn and some coffee with a note from my partner. The yarn had been hand dyed and spun by a friend of hers and it came in a very large hank. The color is pretty and this will come in handy for Color Spectrum which I recently joined. What is really great about this hank is it gave me the opportunity to use my ball winder for the first time. A Christmas gift from my hubby. I couldn't wait to use it. He was kind enough to pose as the swift. This swap was my first and I am gearing up for another, the Knit Mitt Swap. I will mull over the package contents for my next swap while I enjoy the yummy coffee that was with the yarn I received.

Thanks Swap Partner!

2007-01-06T10:48:00.000-06:00

THE DREADED BIRTHDAY!

Now that I am over the hill (for several years now) I usually dread my birthday. I don't like when it comes around and I try to keep it "low key". But as usual, friends and family don't let me forget. Ragged and I had a very nice "low key" dinner and knitting at her house, which was extremely enjoyed after a tough day at work! I even saw signs that Cynical really does live there! He showed up. I appreciate that he let me sit in his spot on the couch! It was very comfy. Thanks for all your hospitality!

On the actual said day, I had to work.....and had planned to get through the day without a peep of aging to get around to coworkers. We have new staff and no one would have had a clue of the marked day since I have the list of birthdays and no one else has seen it. However, a plant arrived addressed to me from a local floral shop. The first hint. When I returned from lunch, a cute bag full of yarn with a special, handmade card was found in my office chair. It was from a coworker. She was extremely generous and I loved her choice. She has been a joy to have around the office and she's an avid crocheter. She said a little bird told her about the birthday and I probably have another coworker to thank for that. Said coworker had given me a knitting book for Christmas and it was a very nice surprise. She is also very kind and great to work with. Finally, the boss comes in with a scrumptious bag from Great Havest filled with cookies and chocolate chip pumpkin bread. Extremely generous and thoughtful. I also received cherished wishes from others.

I get to celebrate for a week because next week are several lunch and dinner dates with special friends.

My family was generous with lots of hugs and kisses, dinner, cake, cards and gift card to Hobby Lobby! My husband and two girls are so special to me and love them dealy, no words can describe.

I am taken aback with the reminder of my special blessings and what a joy it is to have them in my life. This realization happens every year and is the best gift of birthday! Love them all!

Humble thanks!

2007-01-01T20:10:00.000-06:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

The new year has been rang in and I have a project to post already. Unfortunately I began the project in November 2006 and procrastinated the felting of it. Why? I have no idea. I suppose Christmas preparation got into the way of finishing it. Sounds good doesn't it? This bag was knitted by the Romantic Ruffles pattern, a second from this particular pattern. I have to say, I did not follow the pattern literally as I did the first time and therefore it turned out a little different from the first bag I did from this pattern (Click here to see it.)

This bag was knitted with Knitpicks' Wool of the Andes, colors Daffodil and Rain. I also knitted a few small beads into the ruffle part of the bag. The decorative yarn used on the bottom stripe and ruffle is a NOBO brand yarn I love to use. I found it at WalMart.

2006-12-29T13:40:00.000-06:00

Ahhh! The hustle and bustle of Christmas is over and now we enjoy the fact that we are off from work, entertaining guests, visiting with families! I love it. I did finish the hat project for my beloved. I hope he liked it. I finished it on Christmas Eve. Speaking of Christmas, I received some very nice gifts. A ball winder! My husband consulted Ragged on where to acquire one and also included in the package was a sock kit that included the book "Knitting in the Round" with yarn and two #1 circular needles! I was very excited! I also received two travel coffee mugs which I requested. One is made where you can insert pictures. The kids made a very cute page of pictures with some of my favorites and put them into the holder of the cup. It looks great. I also received a nice knitting bag from my mother which was desperately needed and a co-worker gave me the book domiKnitrix. These, along with the special gifts from Ragged chronicled in an earlier entry, I am so happy! Thanks EVERYONE!

The hat is made from Malabrigo yarn that Ragged and I purchased at a holiday open house from a yarn store in a nearby town. The hat pattern I used is a version of the London Beanie.

Special Friends

2006-12-16T21:42:00.000-06:00

Ragged and I got together here at my house for a little dinner and Grey's Anatomy ...and knitting of course. We also exchanged Christmas gifts. She is too good to me. I received a very nice copy of the Knitter's Handbook and a gift certificate to our nearest LYS. I am so excited! Thanks Ragged!

A couple of weeks ago Ragged and I met up to attend a holiday open house in a nice yarn store in a nearby town. We had a great time. We milled around for more than an hour coveting yarns and touching them all. We even came away with a few goodies. I had noticed that Ragged had some Lorna's Laces in her basket at one time, I had the same in mine. I made it home with mine, she had changed her mind and left hers behind. I know she loves Lorna's Laces and the color is gorgeous. So, I made a trip back and that's what she received from me along with a gift certificate for a book. She has a vast collection of knitting books and she is an avid reader. So I didn't want to take any chances on duplicating anything she may already have. It was a lot of fun having her over, although the dinner could have been better. We did have a nice dessert, peppermint ice cream. Everytime we have time to get together I learn that she and I have a lot of the same interests and tastes. It's pretty amazing. She's a special person and I am pleased to have her as my friend. I wish her and Cynical a very Merry Christmas.

IMAGINATION or DAYDREAMS

2006-12-16T08:27:00.000-06:00

Last night my husband and I decided to go out to dinner after dropping our youngest at the movie theater. On the drive into town I started, sorta daydreaming. I was thinking to myself, at 42 years old, I long for when I was at a much younger age and that feeling I felt when my family took drives to our grandparents homes to visit. The drive took 45 minutes to an hour to make on winding roads deeper into the country. Sometimes the weather was bright and sunny, sometimes not. Sometimes there would be a dusting of snow on the ground. But I remember looking out the window of the car and daydreaming, my mind would literally wonder wildly from one thing to the next....I would watch the hillsides with the trees go by, if it was fall, I would notice the vibrant colors and also notice how it made me feel inside to see it. It was an overwhelming feeling. Then, my mind would wonder to how the sun was casting shadows along the road, glistening through the trees, warming my face as I peered outside in a daydreamed daze. But all the while, noticing how it made me feel inside. I hoped I would never lose that feeling. But, somewhere down the road of age, I can't seem to find it. Imagination, daydreams, they just aren't the same. Is it because when I was younger and not having experienced a lot in life as of yet, I imagined what it would be like to actually experience whatever I happpened to be daydreaming about. Now that I am older and have experienced those feelings, there is nothing to imagine. No feeling to imagine, because I have already experienced them. I miss it. This morning I was reading Scrumptious Living and it was like looking into a mirror. I do the same, wanting everything to be perfect and working like a dog to get it there and when it doesn't get there, I am somewhat dissappointed. I retreat. I try not to be let down, I tell myself that there are always other things that have to be considered that get into the way of the perfection. Others wants and needs. You know I try, but sometimes it just isn't good enough. Sometimes, I don't have the inner strength, much less the physical strength to pull it off and I just want to give up. It's such an uphill battle. Should it be? Is that the way it is supposed to be? When do you get to enjoy that feeling inside? At what point is it all perfect? Just when you think you have it perfect, something comes along and sheds a light of imperfection. ~~These are ramblings, because that's what I needed today. To ramble. It's imperfect.

I've been struggling with getting into that mood for the season, be it creative or festive. It usually comes early for me. I love this time of year. I think back on how perfect my mother made everything at this time of year. She too struggled for that perfection, to have everything done, she still does. This year, so far for me that mood is just not here. I so want it to be, it's going to mess with my perception of perfection if it doesn't come. My perfection will be less if it doesn't come. ~~These are ramblings, because that's what I needed today. To ramble. It's imperfect.

The picture was taken in October of the woods outside the back of our home. Of course pictures never do justice to the vivid colors we experience in Kentucky during the Fall.

Making Progress!

2006-11-30T21:27:00.000-06:00

This is my latest finished project. A simple scarf. The yarns used here are Trends Baroque (light blue/blue) and Yarn Bee's Topkapi (navy). I ran the Baroque and Topkapi together then dropped the Baroque for several rows then picked it back up. I did it mainly to stretch out the Baroque. The scarf is a tad short for wrapping but can be crossed.

I am now working to finish a purse and felt it by this weekend. Then I can begin a few other projects and hopefully have those finished in time to give as Christmas gifts. Santa has so much to do! And yes, I worked on this during Grey's Anatomy instead of knitting!

Different Kind of Turkey

2006-11-26T11:55:00.000-06:00

Our family typically celebrates thanksgiving in a traditional manner. Go to mom and dad's (or grandparents) house, (usually less than a 20 minute trip from home) take a dish, visit with family. Most of the women are gathered in the kitchen putting in their helping hand with the men watching a ballgame or the parade on the television and snacking (on food and beverages).

This year we did the same only in a different place. I have a sister who lives in St. Petersburg, Florida and my dad called me early in the week of Thanksgiving to ask if we'd like to make a surprise visit to her house for turkey day. It would be a major road trip (16 hour trip) for just a two day visit. Spontaneous fun staring me in the face, I was up for it. We decided to keep it a secret because my sister had invited my aunt and uncle (my dad's sister) from South Carolina for Thanksgiving. My sister had plans to cook for them. We wanted to surprise them all. We packed the car on Wednesday morning and left Kentucky around 3 a.m.

The trip down wasn't toooooo bad. We kept conversing back and forth about whether to call my sister to let her know we are coming or keeping it as a surprise......as we grew closer to the destination, my mom and I were beginning to get a little apprehensive about possibly intruding on the visitors that were invited to be there. We also reminisced about how one year we had made a trip to my aunt's house in South Carolina and surprised her.

As we approached my sister's house, probably about 5 miles from it, we get a cell call from her husband telling us that my aunt and uncle had arrived and they had finished dinner and were preparing to make pies for the upcoming T-day meal. It was probably around 8:30 or 9:00 p.m. Conversation was carried on while we were sitting outside their home in our car. We still had cell phone to ear when we knocked at the door. My two teenage girls were at the door first, for confusion and surprise. My uncle had passed his phone to my sister to answer the door. His disbelief at seeing the two girls was apparent when he blurted, "What the heck is going on?" As we all began trickling into the house the faces were so surprised! It was unbelievable that they really had no idea we were coming.....the cat had not been let out of the bag! It was great! It was an awesome surprise to all. The surprise alone was worth the trip.

We helped finish making the pies and assured my sister we would have enough food because we did bring some things in preparation. The next morning, we began our task of preparing the grand meal. The weather was awesome! (Thanksgiving Day in Kentucky is usually unpredictable. We may have a flurry or two or we may have 75 degree weather). The day had been extremelysunny, 60-75 degree weather....we sat on my sister's porch by the pool most of the day snacking and resting in between preparing dishes. After the meal, we decided to take a trek on the beach to make room for some pie! We had been snacking and eating all day it seemed. So, all the girls piled into the car and drove down to the beach to catch the sunset. I couldn't help thinking as we watched the sunset and felt the slightly cool breeze on our faces as to what a different kind of Thanksgiving Day it was, but how it was really kind of the same being with family. It was an overwhelming feeling to know that no matter where or how you celebrate it, that family makes it all so familiar.

A different kind of turkey!
(Pictures taken at St. Petersburg Beach, Florida
Thanksgiving - November 2006)

Gauge the Grey

2006-11-09T20:59:00.000-06:00

This is one of my WIP. It's a sweater. I haven't figured out how to knit by gauge so I already know it's not going to fit me. I just don't get it. I guess I could frog it and use a bigger needle. Maybe that would help. I had the desire to knit my first garment. So far this has been really easy to knit and I really like the pattern. But it is not going to fit. I even followed the bigger size knowing it wouldn't from the start. Oh well, I am using Paton's Simply Soft yarn, it was on sale .99 a skein. Can't beat that! I've got to learn to gauge.

Knit Mitt Kit Swap

2006-11-06T18:18:00.000-06:00

I have entered my first swap and the following questions have been provided to help the swap partner. I have answered them in hopes that my partner will find out needed information.

What are your favorite colors? Blue, Aqua, bluegreen, browns, oranges, fall like colors.

Are you a new mitt knitter? How long have you been knitting mittens? I have never knit mittens or gloves yet. I've been knitting for about a year.

Do you prefer solid or multicolored yarn? Mostly solid, some multicolored

What fibers do you prefer in mitten yarn? Soft and warm.

Where do you usually knit mittens? Probably at home or a ballgame.

How do you usually carry/store small projects? I have a bag that I knitted and felted that I carry my projects in.

What are your favorite mitten patterns? Easy

What are your favorite mitten knitting techniques? Easy

What new techniques would you like to try? Cable technique

What are your favorite needles for knitting mittens? I like to knit in the round.

What are some of your favorite yarns? Gallway, Noro, Wool of the Andes

What yarn do you totally covet? Cashmere

Any pattern you would love to make if money and time were no object? hmmmm probably some kind of sweater. (I have yet to master guage!)

Favorite kind of needles (brand, materials, straights or circs, etc)? Circulars (I just got a set of Knit Picks Options) Bamboo is nice too.

If you were a specific kind of yarn, which brand and kind of yarn would you be? Too hard to decide.

Do you have a favorite candy or mail-able snack? Anything! :)

What’s your favorite animal? Cat (But I am allergic!)

Would you prefer super warm mittens or something more like fingerless mitts? Super warm, but the other would be interesting.

If you were a color what color would you be? Aqua

What is your most inspiring image, flower, or object in nature? Poppies, Cosmos, hydrangeas

Do you have a wishlist? Not yet, I just like everything! Plus there is so much to choose from, very overwhelming!

Packages! It's not even Christmas!

2006-10-26T19:20:00.000-05:00

Ragged and I have been patiently waiting for a joint purchase to show up in the mail. I have emailed her daily to find out if it had arrived. I ordered a set of knitting needles from Knit Picks. I had been reading reviews and looking at prices and finally gave in and bought their advertised set. I am so excited! On my way home from work I called Ragged and asked if I should stop by her house. She said yes! She had just arrived home and noticed the package had arrived. She was just as excited as I as she had already broke into the box to see all that awaited us. Finally there, we both ripped into the various packages to check everything out. We looked like two kids ripping into presents at Christmas! The needles looked so nice and shiny. They are everything I have read and heard. I told Ragged I was going to exchange the needles with my current project to begin knitting with them immediately. I told her she could borrow any of them if she wished. Gosh knows I don't do as many projects as she in a given time period. Ragged had ordered some beautiful baby alpaca yarn in a lovely fall color for a future project (it was soooooo soft!) and a book with sock projects to her heart's desire. Since I left her house, I've been home filling the organizer and changing out the needles on my project. They were easy to assemble, just like they say! I had to prepare to knit with Grey's Anatomy! Then, I thought I should to take a picture and post first. So, now that I have accomplished everything, I am so ready to knit!

Apples and Fall Go Together

2006-10-22T13:27:00.000-05:00

Finally the leaves are turning! I've always heard that the more rain there is during the summer months that the more vibrant the foliage colors will be in the Fall. This wwekend has been beautiful! The leaves are finally popping with color! I'll need to post a picture for your enjoyment. Needless to say, volleyball is over and this has been another catch up weekend. I decided to make up for all the missed family meals and make some fall goodies. Candy apples! Nothing better! I also made s scrumptious meal of fried chicken! Something thats's rare around here. Baked is so much easier. But it was worth the reaction from the family!

Booga Bag 2006

2006-10-14T12:43:00.000-05:00

This is one my works in progress. It's a bag for my sister who lives in Florida. Hopefully, I will finish it soon as I have several things I would like to mail to her with it. I knitted another dishcloth and was hoping to have something else knitted up for her but she just may have to wait for a Christmas surprise!

Volleyball is almost over. My oldest daughter plays on her high school's varsity team and has traveled extensively to different tournaments throughout the year. As well, my youngest plays for her middle school team....they also have traveled to several tournaments. The varsity will be playing their regional tournament this coming week and hopefully will be traveling to the state tournament. These games are where I get some of my knitting done. The waiting between matches is sometimes long. I hate to see the games end because I like watching, but the traveling gets old and I am anxious about spending some time at home for a change. Gosh knows between knitting and volleyball, the house is a mess!

What you can do in a Pinch

2006-10-01T20:20:00.000-05:00

(Pre-felted Romantic Ruffles)

This cute purse knitted up easily. It is from a pattern called Romantic Ruffles felted handbag by Kate Lemmers. I used Knit Picks' Wool of the Andes, Tulip color with a decorative yarn in the ruffle. I was pressed for time in finishing this project as my daughter intended to give it one of her friends as a birthday gift. I had to buy handles to attach as I did not have the time to knit them. I thought it finished it nicely. I hope her friend enjoys it.

Dad's Birthday Hat

2006-09-18T10:22:00.000-05:00

I have finally finished a project. I began knitting this hat last weekend with size 7 needles. The yarn is Lion Brand Wool-Ease Chunky, Walnut color. The pattern I used was a combination of the London Beanie and the J Crew Style Hat. I really like the London Beanie pattern, it seems fairly easy. But it wasn't quite big enough. I know my dad would want something that would cover his ears. He doesn't like the cold much. I think I'll knit him a matching scarf with the yarn that's left. His birthday is next week. So maybe I'll have something new to post!

I GIVE!

2006-09-08T11:06:00.000-05:00

OK! I give up! I have abandoned the SOB sock! I have talked with and received some excellent advice from others as well as some excellent sites to refer to. I just haven't been able to conquer the SOB sock. My last attempt resulted in broken thread. That did it. The heel flap is not the problem....it's what comes after. I have decided that my skill level is just not there yet.

I need to work on some other projects. I have actually finished a dishrag, which I tried to knit up 6 months ago and had trouble with. I gave it to my sister to take back with her to Florida. She came in for a quick visit over the Labor Day holiday and said she had one that she had received from someone and used it until it fell apart....she really liked it. So I knit one quickly in a day for her. I am actully working on another and will send her a few in the mail. She also wanted me to knit her a wrap. Living in Florida that's all she sometimes needs for warmth. Since Ragged and I had planned a little shopping spree at the LYS (there was a sale going on!), I purchased some lovely Berroco Cotton Twist in the shade Gravel. It has a pretty little shiney thread running through it. I can't wait to get started. I also purchased some Addi's! So, when I attempt to conquer the SOB I will prevail!

Not Much Goin On

2006-08-22T22:57:00.000-05:00

Not much goin' on here. I keep checking my blog thinking something new is going to show up on it, all by itself. I have been working like the dickens to knit a pair of footies. My first ever sock project. It is wearing me out! I have begun the sock/footie about a billion times. I just can't seem to get the short row wraps right. My husband is making fun of me spending so much time on this one footie.....that I could have bought a pair cheaper than the time I have wrapped up in it. Well, we all know it's about the conquest of the project itself. Not to mention the item that can be used or given as a gift. Besides, when I do finally achieve this pattern, I have advanced my knitting abilities just a little further. This has proven the most difficult project yet. I can't wait to conquer!

The SOB SOCK

Summer is all but Gone!

2006-08-02T23:55:00.000-05:00

Soooo.....it's been a while since I've had anything of worthy interest to update here. Another purse is finally finished. Sorry to say that these pictures do not do the color justice. The yarn is Gallway and I think the color is Mango. The Fun Fur is Tuti Fruiti. It actually went together very well. I am going to try to make one of those felted flowers for embellishment. My eldest daughter will use this purse, so I might make the flower so it can be pinned on.

I am currently working a scarf and have begun my first sock. I chose a footie pattern. In my haste to get one started, I have cast on, created the ribbed edge and now I have no idea where to go next in reading the pattern. Needless to say the sock has been ripped out and begun three times already and I have realized my ribbed edge is wrong. Guess I should learn how to read the pattern before I begin my project huh? I was just too excited to begin. Never fear, Ragged will help me. She is becoming a sock connoisseur and has made some lovely creations.

I should have a lot more time for knitting projects now that my girls will be going back to school. They are both playing volleyball. I enjoy watching the games but sitting at tournaments, watching and waiting between matches can get a little boring without something interesting to occupy the time. This will be a great time to begin my winter projects and Christmas gifts.

It's Hot Don!

2006-07-14T22:12:00.000-05:00

. . . It's HOT, HOT, HOT!

Lucky for us there is air conditioning, swimming and knitting!!!!

What's on the sticks? Another purse
from Pursenality Plus, the All in One.

Where Does the Time Go?

2006-07-12T06:51:00.000-05:00

Yes, I have been busy with knitting, vacation, work, knitting, kids to camp, knitting and knitting! I seem to knit a lot (my husband and kids think so anyway) but nothing every gets finished. It's not like I have several projects going at any given time either. So far, I've only worked on one project at a time. Yes, I think about the next project, buy yarn for the next project (lots o' yarn!) and look at patterns for the next project. But that next project is always waiting. I've got so much to knit! I best get busy!

My latest finished project: a first attempt at a keyhole scarf. The pictures don't do it justice.

Simple Saturday

2006-06-24T19:20:00.000-05:00

How I enjoy a great photo! Just wish I could take one! I practice every chance I get. My mom and I went to a daylily farm to tour the various daylillies in the many prepared beds. The varieties were colorful and I managed to come home with a Chicago Sunrise and a Pardon Me as well as a few photos!

A little something spied on my mom's back porch.

Who can resist the fascination of a ladybug!

Lonely Tomato

2006-06-24T12:48:00.000-05:00

I planted two tomato plants at the side of my house in the landscaping in May. Both plants appear to be growing quite nicely with lots of blooms. I monitor them quite frequently to make sure the family dog has not nibbled the branches because she loves to trim my landscaping. Seems all is well. I became quite excited when a tiny green bud appeared and it has grown to the size of a tennis ball and is nice and green. But....it's the only one! I keep waiting for it to turn red but there is no hint of it turning. There are lots of other blooms but nothing is becoming of them. Unforturnately, the soil is extremely poor on the property, mostly clay. It may be that the plants' roots have hit the clay soil and can't seem to grow any more. Who knows. I love green tomatoes but I thought I'd let the first one turn red. I can't wait for the lucious taste of something that is not HOT HOUSE!

The Purse

2006-06-17T00:27:00.000-05:00

My daughter picked out this purse pattern from the book Pursenality Plus. This is the Double Delight. She picked out the colors, beads and handles. This is what it looked like when I finally finished knitting it. So far so good. I thought it turned out quite nice. This is before felting.

It didn't shrink as much as I would've liked so I felted it twice. It appears to be much larger than the photo in the book and what my daughter would like it to be. I tried to come up with other ways to decorate the purse so that she would be happy with it and use it. She suggested making it into a bag with a drawstring around the top for a closure.

I thought that would be a great idea and realized she was going to use it to lug her things to the pool. As I looked for some sort of drawstring and embelishments I realized that this was becoming an expensive project...the yarn alone was around $27.00. Mind you, I had bought beads and handles too. I did find some neat handles in the curtain/tassle department, and the right color too. Then I found some very nice buttons. I thought they would be nice to hook the handles onto. Dummy me wasn't thinking. I only bought two buttons and I needed four.

I was so excited about my purchases that Iwas determined to finish this purse Friday night. I had to make a run out anyway to Wally World so while I was there I checked out their sewing department and bought more buttons, different from the original. Finally home, I began my task of finishing the purse. My husband put in a movie, Jarhead. I worked on knitting the loop that would be the closure for the purse. I knitted during the whole movie and finished about the time it was over. The rest was tedious but I finally finished!

Tribute

2006-06-10T16:00:00.000-05:00

I love being creative. Unfortunately my creative abilities seem to fall behind my creative ideas for projects. I attribute my latest hobby to my most creative friend, Ragged Around the Edges. She coaxed me into and is teaching me knitting and I thoroughly enjoy it. In spending time with her and learning this new hobby, I have come to realize she has some very creative talents. She's quite the photographer. I love the pictures of her projects and other subjects she posts on her website. I have also learned more about her. She's a generous, kind soul and I enjoy her friendship very much.

Below are my finished projects since learning knitting. I have tried very hard to keep up with Ragged but she is so much more advanced.

My First Projects: Scarves Second Project Third Scarf My first felted project: Before After:
My first hatMy Stash

I gave up reading as a hobby a long time ago and have been searching for a creative outlet. I am so thankful that I have found a hobby.