Just Knitting

Knitting Night - Second Tuesday 2012

2012-01-11T22:37:00.003-05:00

10 Jan 2012 - Ruth, Ann and I knitted together.

Ruth worked on a pair of socks.

Ann showed us three very cute striped hats she knitted for three special little girls in her life. She worked on a lace patterned shawl.

I put the final touches on a little stuffed parakeet for Anna; his name is Cassie. They are currently tucked into bed, side by side, fast asleep.

Knitting Night - First Wednesday 2012

2012-01-05T13:40:00.004-05:00

Hi, All,

Linda, Ruth and I had the pleasure of knitting together last night. I can't promise a detailed write-up after each of our gatherings, but I thought it would be fun to at least post a photo each time.

Ruth was working on a charity project, a scarf for Special Olympics. She wisely chose the softer of the two acceptable yarns for the project, Red Heart Soft. It's not as wide as she had hoped, so will be adding a crocheted edge.

Linda worked on a dishcloth. She also has another small project in the works. Sarah requested a warm headband for chilly Pittsburgh and sent a photo to mom. Of course Linda jumped right on the opportunity to design and knit for her daughter. Linda is working up her own variation of a pattern she found on Ravelry to match the photo from Sarah. Linda wants to take copious notes as she knits that project and will require a more quiet atmosphere than us at B&N. Greg can help her with that.

I worked on the final step of the shrug for my niece. It has a ruffle around it that is taking way longer to knit than I expected.

We all had some good laughs, especially on our way out the door. For me it was one of those laughs that made my belly hurt. Now I can't even remember what was so funny, but it had something to do with 'Words With Friends". Last night I introduced Ruth to the app. She immediately downloaded and is currently beating me 122 - 18. I'm no longer laughing ;).

Cool Giveaway

2009-09-12T11:12:00.003-04:00

Hi JustKnitting Group,
Check out this link, a woman is giving away an entire flock of Angora Goats...with a shed to house them in. It's a cool thing and I want to help pass the word along. And I want to win the other prize she's giving away to someone who helps spread the word!! Yeah, there's no way Chuck's putting up with a herd of goats!
Pat

http://www.fiberfarm.com/2009/09/a-mighty-big-giveaway

2009-05-02T15:51:00.001-04:00

Sorry it’s taken so long to write this up.

Above is the picture that Beth took on April 22, 2009 of me holding the basket I felted. It is based on a worsted weight knitting basket by Lucia Tedesco on Ravelry. Here is the link:

http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/knitting-basket

I used a little less than six skeins of Bernat’s Felting Natural Wool (a chunky yarn) and a #11 needle. Because of misunderstanding the directions, the bottom was increased to 126 stitches instead of 120. Except for that and knitting the sides for fifteen or sixteen inches (directions said thirteen) before binding off and on for the handles, I followed the directions.

Since Beth took the picture, I felted the basket again and it is currently drying.

Ruth

Pysanky Making

2009-04-07T23:04:00.007-04:00

On Saturday Jen, Gina, Marsha and I gathered at my house for a morning of making pysanky. Jen had made these eggs in high school art class and quickly remembered the technique. Gina and Marsha caught on fast. Brad joined in the fun too. Before kids he and would make some of these eggs every year. If you are looking for pysanky supplies, here is the place to shop. Happy Easter.

A Very Special Project

2009-01-08T12:05:00.004-05:00

Thanks to all who knit a scarf for a very special group of people.
The scarves are now on their way to Utah for the Winter Games and will be ready to embrace some lucky Special Olympians!

Both my aunt and my nephew have participated in Special Olympic events and if you've never seen the proud faces of those athletes, you don't know what you're missing.

reading

2008-04-10T13:20:00.002-04:00

i love to read almost as much as i love to knit. i don't think i can confine this list to just a few books that have really touched me. i'll try to keep it down. i can never remember authors but i have all these books if anyone wants to borrow them.

A Fine Balance is a moving story of life in india.

the vanishing of esme lennox - is recent and a bit disturbing but still a moving story of triumph. i still get shivers every now and then as a bit it of come into my memory.

garden spells - fun and quick.

robert ruark - something of value - omg. older book about the maumau (sp?) revolution in africa
cloud atlas - there are two by different authors. very different but both good reads

anything by ayn rand. who is john galt?

anything by leon uris.

ok. i'm getting carried away here. i'll stop.

Beth Reads

2008-04-09T15:08:00.009-04:00

Sometimes I can sit still long enough to read and comprehend what I'm reading. But, it doesn't happen very often. Here's what I've been enjoying most recently in the way of books:

1. Not Quite What I Was Planning: Six-Word Memoirs by Writers Famous and Obscure by Larry Smith and Rachel Fershleiser

Read this book cover to cover in one sitting or use as a bathroom reader (or both!). It is just what its title suggests: a collection of six-word memoirs. How would you describe your life in six words?

By the way, my first knitting publication is going to have the same title, Not Quite What I Was Planning. Unless, of course, that would be a copyright infringement!

2. The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick

The story revolves around the secret life of a young boy. The book was written for 9-12 yr olds, but I think most adults will enjoy it too. Believe the author when he says that the book is "not exactly a novel, not quite a picture book, not really a graphic novel, or a flip book or a movie, but a combination of all these things."

Did you clutch a black and white notebook as you explored alleys in your neighborhood after reading Harriet The Spy? Were you ready to move into an art museum after reading From the Mixed-up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler? If so, you'll be ready for another exciting adventure after reading The Invention of Hugo Cabret.

Secret Pal Reveal - March 27, 2008

2008-04-01T07:40:00.002-04:00

Here are the pictures from our Secret Pal Reveal on March 27, 2008. It was so much fun!

I hate to hog the blog but.........

2008-03-26T16:35:00.002-04:00

Once again, I'm saying huge thanks to my SP!

I just got home to find a HUGE bunch of roses waiting
for me. Flowers are one of my very favorite things
but I don't remember telling you all that. These
are beautiful. They're in a great metal European-
style metal vase and were accompanied by a nice note
on a beautiful postcard.

Work has been very stressful lately and this was such
a happy surprise. Again, many thanks!

Mark was home when my SP stopped by with them and he
teased he knows something I don't know yet. Oh well;
it won't be long until I can say thank you live.

hugs back to you, SP,
Deb.

Thank you, Secret Pal!

2008-03-26T05:59:00.002-04:00

I had to drop you all a quick note to say "thank you", once again,
to my Secret Pal. She left a nice package at the front door
containing a note, adorable (and delicious) bunny-shaped sugar
cookies as well as Irish Potatoes. Sugar cookies are way up on
my list of favorite foods and the Irish Potatoes were good, as
well. I'd heard of Irish Potatoes but never before tried them.
Like most sweet things, I can now claim that I do like them. :)

Quite some time ago we talked about guessing our SP's identity.
While I don't know who mine is, I do know a few things about her.
They include:
1. She's an excellent cook.
2. She and I don't work together in my office. This one is an
observation from the five-year old and is an easy one since I
don't work with any of you!
3. I know her from knitting. Again, a point made by the shortest
part of the family. This one, too, makes me giggle since I know
all the potential candidates through knitting.
4. She's considerate and thoughtful, thinking of more than just
me. The five year old is looking forward to knowing who she
is almost as much as I am!

The list, above, could apply to the whole group, I believe. In
other words, I have no good ideas yet. Looking forward to saying
"thank you" in person tomorrow night!

Yipes! Stripes!

2008-03-25T01:31:00.003-04:00

Here is our first strippy blanket for Afghans for Afghans. Held by volunteer Ann Batman and photographed by Laura Truffaut, the Scarlet Knitter...http://scarletknitter.typepad.com/ in the basement in San Francisco where Afghans for Afghans packs all the boxes. (I am probably the only person who wants to go to San Francisco so I can go down into the basement of the AFSC building. . .)

Another one is in progress. This one doesn't look half bad!

We should all be very proud! (Even though I did not knit a single stitch of this one. I put my time in on seaming, though.)

Leap Year

2008-02-29T22:18:00.003-05:00

For all you knitter's out there. I suggest you celebrate Leap Year by frogging a project that you've had sitting around for more than ten years that is less than half complete.

Free to good homes

2008-02-28T13:48:00.003-05:00

A few years ago, I worked for an organization that has huge archives on stuff on the history of chemistry and the molecular sciences. While I was there, IUPAC (The International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry) donated their archives to my organization. The stuff came from Oxford, England, in a couple hundred moving boxes, several dozen of which I brought home to use for moving into my house.

The papers were filed in these "Hunt File Boxes" (which were made by Hunts Office Equipment Group in Oxford but are no long manufactured by anyone, it seems). The archivists at my organization were keeping the papers but discarding the boxes, so anyone who wanted them was allowed to bring them home. I couldn't bear to see such sturdy boxes tossed into the trash, so I brought some home. Actually, I brought a lot of them home--two or four at a time on the subway and the R5.

I've found these useful for storing magazines, papers, crafting supplies, and all sorts of stuff. But I have far more of these than I'll ever need (and I don't have the shelf space to accommodate them), so I need to find new homes for the surplus.

Dimensions are 14.75" tall, 9.75" wide, and 3" deep. The frame of each box file is actually made of wood, the fronts and backs are very thick pressboard. The interiors are covered with a marbled paper, and the exteriors are covered with book cloth. The boxes are very stuy and are in excellent condition; they can be stacked on a shelf vertically or on top of each other horizontally.

If you want some of these boxes, please let me know. (I have dozens of them, so there are plenty to go around.) I'll bring one to knitting next week so you can see it in person.

A very happy

2008-02-14T17:52:00.000-05:00

Cardigan Complete

2008-02-11T20:31:00.000-05:00

After six month in the making the Debbie Bliss jacket is finally complete, except the buttons are not sewn on yet. It fits her and she likes it.

I miscounted rows and have ten evenly-spaced buttonholes instead of seven. I had planned to use the buttons shown, but I only have eight of them. I think ten buttons along the packet would look too crowded. I'm looking for suggestions, fellow knitters?

MY SP Wants to Know

2008-02-07T08:55:00.000-05:00

My secret pal really gets around (and changes handwriting from town to town -- hmmmm. . .). Postmarks so far from San Francisco, Minneapolis, and Boston. . . I'm waiting for Duluth, or how about my favorite town, Durand, Wisconsin? Oh, but where was I . . . right. SP wants to know "What are your three favorite things you've ever knit?" I've been mulling this over, and I'm not sure I can answer. My current favorite is the big purple mitered square blanket, appearing here. After that, I really don't know. . . maybe the Norwegian sweater, with an all-over pattern of stars, that I knit for my boyfriend the fall after I graduated from college. Having never done colorwork before. I loved that project. No one told me it might be hard, and it was just beautiful. And then. . . well, I just don't know. Possibly Bill's "elf" hat -- navy blue with 1-inch stripes in all the colors of the rainbow. He won't wear wool, and my hands don't like working with cotton (ouch) or acrylic (squeak squeak squeak) so it's the only thing I've made for him. I gave it to him for Christmas 2005, and he wore it all day, and he's worn it every day from November through March since then (not at work, just while getting there and back). I think he might get a new one next year. It's more about matching the project to the recipient for me than about virtuoso knitting. And since a good deal of my knitting time comes late at night, autopilot is usually the best kind. Not to say I don't have ideas about magnificent, complex achievements -- just maybe not this year.

twin baby pattern suggestions sought

2008-02-07T06:58:00.000-05:00

I recently found out a co-worker and his wife are expecting
identical twin girls in June. Thanks to new 3-D ultrasounds,
earlier this week, everyone in the office saw their sweet
little faces. It's amazing how much better this new technology
is than what was available even a few years ago!

Anyone have any suggestions for gift knitting for the two?

I'd suggest something not overly complicated or ridiculously
time consuming and not booties. Other than those two
guidelines, I'm open.

I look forward to your ideas!

A visit from my secret groundhog pal

2008-02-03T10:18:00.000-05:00

Even though yesterday's Groundhog Day party got canceled--and even though Phil says we've got six more weeks of winter--I still managed to have a great Groundhog Day.

Jan, Sylvia, and I went out to lunch with an old friend (whom we haven't seen in six years because he now lives in Yakima). When we returned, I checked our mailbox and found another gift from my secret pal. A beautiful card (with a woodcut that reminds me a lot of some of the woodcut art I've seen in Vermont and really adore) wished me a happy Groundhog Day. Accompanying it was a book that's been on my wish list for a long time (I think my secret pal is a mind reader!): Rowan Babies, by Kim Hargreaves. The designs in here are adorable--I am really looking forward to knitting them up!

Thank you, secret pal!

Thank you, Secret Pal

2008-02-02T23:55:00.000-05:00

Just look at the lovely slippers my Secret Pal gave me. I don't know how she does it - the first gift bag (with the mittens) appeared out of nowhere into my knitting bag at Wegmans; this bag was left on my front door knob today and as far as I remember I was home all day!

These slippers are toasty and fun on the hardwood floors. I glide around as if ice skating!

Thank You Secret Pal!

2008-01-31T09:47:00.001-05:00

I love my new mug!
Pat

Another Question for Pals

2008-01-30T11:40:00.001-05:00

So what is your absolute, most- favorite knitting book? And which, if any, would you like to own someday?

What do you all think?

2008-01-29T15:23:00.000-05:00

So, as you all know, I lurve etsy. I am completely enamored with hand-made goods. And I love to support folks who make a living being creative. If I could do it, I would.

However...

I think this is just dumb. What do you think? $12 for that? Um...no.

Now this, from the same artisan, I think is cute and probably useful. Especially if you like tea (like I do).

Thanks, Secret Pal!

2008-01-25T23:56:00.000-05:00

Just wanted to say thank you to my Secret Swapper for the lovely bunch of blank notecards that I received in the mail today! As you can see, they are all different shapes and sizes and really pretty!

These will come in handy! Thanks so much!

Questions about beverages

2008-01-20T09:04:00.000-05:00

A few of us have mentioned being fond of coffee or tea, and I figured it would be nice to have all of our preferences in one place to make things easier for our secret pals. :)

Please answer (in the comments to this post) the following questions:

What kind of coffee do you like? (Fully loaded or decaf? Flavored or unflavored? Any particular roasts?)

What kind of tea do you like? (Fully loaded or decaf? Black or herbal? Any particular varieties?)

And not to assume that everyone here is keen on coffee or tea...

Are you especially fond of any non-coffee/non-tea beverages? (Hot chocolate? Certain beers? Particular wine varieties? Juices? Sparkling waters?)

What a sweet surprise!

2008-01-19T13:36:00.000-05:00

OHMYGOSH, this secret pal thing is so nice! We just got back from Kate's
5th birthday party at the bowling alley and I went to get the mail.
It included a card for Kate. It was from my secret pal! I can't tell
you how *touched* I was. Secret Pal, thank you so very much. That was
such a sweet gesture.

enjoy your weekend, everyone. Again, SP, thank you so much!

Deb.

Thanks Secret Pal!!!

2008-01-18T02:04:00.001-05:00

When I came home today from picking up my girl from school, I found these lovely plants and a sweet card. There's a crocus for me and an African violet for Buttons (as I call her on my other blog). On a snowy day, a few flowers really help to cure the wintertime blues. What a thoughtful and warm gift. Thanks Secret Pal!

Circular knitting question!

2008-01-17T16:01:00.000-05:00

Hi, everyone!

Looks like I am not going to make it to knitting tonight. It's just too nasty outside for me to make the trek.

But I do have a question that I hope one of you guys can help me with about circular knitting.

So I am knitting my second pair of socks. And I saw a pattern that I'd like to use on the leg part. However, the pattern is written for straight knitting, not knitting in rounds. I learned this the hard way by knitting a few rounds in this pattern and looking at the sock, then going "Um...no."

So, what can be done to adapt this pattern to function in the round as opposed to back & forth knitting?

With a number of stitches that is a variable of 2 +1 (so for my sock it would be either 53 or 55),

Row 1: K1 *YO, K2 repeat until end
Row 2: P1 *P3, PFSO (pass first stitch over) repeat until end
Row 3: *K2, YO repeat until last stitch, K1
Row 4: *P3, PFSO repeat until last stitch, P1

Would it work if I just knit wherever it calls for purl?

Thank you, Secret Pal

2008-01-17T07:07:00.000-05:00

This week the girls got mail from my secret pal. My SP wrote each a handwritten note and facts/lore about sheep! "Do you think sheep really ride scooters and wear hats?"

This morning A. saw her card displayed in the bowl of clemintines and said "Is that my card? I better hold it."

The girls were thrilled to get mail! What a nice touch. Thanks, SP.

Not really resolutions

2008-01-17T05:42:00.000-05:00

I'm slow to the 2008 resolution posting but thought I'd share my
plans for the year.

First, I have a LOT of yarn at home. Most of it was bought for a
particular project. Looking through the stash, I still love most
of those projects.

This year, I will finish some of the almost-completed-UFOs. I
have more of them than I realized. They include 2 sweaters for
me. One of the two just need sleeves and MINIMAL finishing.
The other is a Kaffe Fassett intarsia project that'd be more
involved BUT that I'd LOVE to wear when done. The list also
includes at least 2 almost-completed winter hats and several
pairs of gloves or mittens. These are small things that should be
completed more quickly.

Here's the biggee, though. Pat, are you reading this?
...........I vow to make significant progress on my TKGA Master
Knitter designation this year. I've done most of the swatches
and reading/research/writing. I've bought yarn for a sweater
and hat and have ideas for both. I just need to knock that
out. Pat, are you with me???? :)

with you guys cheering me on, I'm sure I can get it done!
(she typed with new-year's-enthusiasm!)

happy knitting!
Deb.

Info for my secret pal

2008-01-14T13:11:00.000-05:00

I can't seem to think creatively today so will use Marsha's two older questionnaires as guidelines about my likes and dislikes.

Non-knitting first:
At home I usually drink decaf coffee black (though will sometimes have high test before 2 p.m.). When I'm out, sometimes add Splenda and nonfat milk. At home I drink unflavored coffee. At Wawa, I often get Hazelnut if I'm adding Spenda and milk.

I also drink tea, but have enough for quite a few years to come.

I'm not into candles, bath products, etc.

My favorite music is classical, folk and "oldies but goodies."

I don't wear many scarves or hats, but do wear gloves and mittens.

I don't have an ongoing sweet tooth (only an occasional craving), but do love ice cream. I like my ice cream and other foods plain. I do like salty snacks such as chips and pretzels.

I like to wear fun earrings and rings.

I have two cats (Inky is 18 and Jessica is closing in on 15).

My birthday is in August (am a Leo).

Knitting related:
I posted my favorite colors as a comment to Marsha's question.

Except when I'm knitting for children, I prefer natural fibers like wool, silk, alpaca. My favorite yarn is Koigu and I like to blend their colors (like with mill ends).

I don't have a favorite thing to knit. Like most things in my life, I like variety. Since I'm on the go a lot, I like to take small things (such as socks) when traveling.

I don't like straight needles, only circulars or double-pointed. I have a hanging canvas gizmo for the circulars and keep the double pointed ones in three-hole punched plastic bags in a loose leaf binder.

There's nothing I have a burning desire for right now.

Hopefully, this will help my secret pal.

Ruth S.

Another question for our swap!

2008-01-14T09:37:00.000-05:00

What is your favorite yarn to work with and are there any yarns in particular that you've been dying to try?

Getting To Know Each Other

2008-01-13T18:53:00.000-05:00

I feel lucky to be a part of such an interesting and diverse group of women who genuinely
enjoy each other's company. I enjoy getting to know everyone better through the lists of
"likes".

Not in any particular order, I'll make my list my first blog post. They include:
Knitting - a given here. I like all kinds from very challenging to brainless
Chocolate - dark
Coffee - also dark, black, flavored or not
Live Performances - concerts, theater, etc.
Water - the ocean, baths in the winter, swimming in the summer, the sound of water..........
Reading - I wish I kept up with my book club better. I'm currently enjoying "Pillars of the Earth" for the second time while looking forward to Follet's next almost-1000-pager, it's sequel. Mark gave me "Number Knitting" for Christmas which is THE gift I've asked for for a few years.
Friends and Family - I cherish our group and love it when I can spend time with folks.
Pottery
Nativities and Christmas trees
Music - an eclectic mix of folk, 70s and 80s rock, old-time gospel, reggae, and almost anything live.
Antique Stores - I love old copper (and have a number of old copper knitting "holders")
Cuff Links and Funky Socks - some of the ways to personalize and differentiate while still wearing traditional, classic business clothes.

Also, I finished the Kathryn Alexander Color on Color Scarf today! I'm going to block it as soon as I quit typing! Elizabeth, I only have about 2 inches left on my afgan strip so I hope to finish it tonight, as well.

Enjoy the snow this evening -- safe and warm at home!

more than you wanted to know about Elizabeth

2008-01-13T09:50:00.001-05:00

Hmmmm. . . no camera capability yet, so I can't do an appealing artsy shot like Pat's. (I think I'd need a few years of practice anyway, so that's just as well.)

OK, secret pal, here are answers to questions. You all know I like knitting! And I have a lot of stuff, and plenty to share, but that doesn't mean I don't like new things. . . I confess to serial abuse of my Jo-Ann Fabric coupons in the book section, so I already have pretty much everything that I want, so I'd advise steering clear of that. I like smooth yarns more than textured or fluffy yarns (although KidSilk Haze is highly acceptable). And, like Marsha, I'd never reject Koigu. . .Natural fibers. And please! No sock yarn, unless it's something new and wonderful. Lantern Moon straight single-pointed needles, 10-inch length, ebony preferred, sizes 4 and 7, are high on my list of wants. . .

I don't collect anything.

Favorite colors? I'm hopelessly out of style. I love virtually all shades of red, green, and blue; most purples; and nearly all grays. Cannot abide mustard tones. Take them away!!!! I prefer clear and "jewel" tones rather than spice tones, but I do recommend that all of you get a good look at Kristin Knits, by Kristin Nicholas (I'll try to bring it on Thursday). If I could start with an empty house, I'd design it to look a lot like Carl Larsson -- or maybe Simon Pearce -- had drawn it.

I love to read. Favorite book is The Bean Trees, by Barbara Kingsolver. I'm a good cook, but I find that the kind of cooking you have to do every single day is very wearing. I own loads of cookbooks.

Favorite music? Bach, hands down. Also, Cuban, Cajun, Celtic, Franco-American, folk in general; Renaissance [the era], lots of jazz but not the Sun Ra kind, um. . . . Self-indulgent singer songwriters? uh-uh. I like to sit at folk festivals and knit.

Favorite place to be? On the beach, preferably in Maine but any beach will do, especially in the winter.

I like most teas, and I love coffee. But never, ever dark roast. And not flavored -- cinnamon coffee makes me feel like I have dirt in my mouth, and all the others are just too sweet. Yup, I drink it black. I like mild, full coffee flavors. Ground for a Melitta drip filter.

Preferred chocolate? I know I'm "supposed" to express a preference for dark chocolate, but alas, I like milk chocolate better. I know, I'm terminally unhip. Best? One dark Wilbur bud and one milk chocolate Wilbur bud, eaten at the same time.

Fragrances? Can't use scented candles -- Bill is highly allergic. I do buy handmade soaps to fulfill my need for things that smell good. Favorite types of scents would be in the lavender/rosemary/lemon range. I loathe patchouli. The only floral scent I like -- and I love it -- is rose.

Gina, forgive me, but I'm not fond of cats. . .

If I were to pick the animals on my totem pole, they'd be elephant, penguin, flamingo, polar bear, frog, and rabbit. I'm sure this says something very odd about me.

Enough, already, Elizabeth -- how long do you think these people are going to keep reading??

P.S. One more thing -- if you are my giftee, you know I live in a different area. How shall I surprise you without revealing my zip code? I work during the day, and Bill's not home until late at night, so sneaking out to leave things on your doorstep isn't gonna work for me. . .

2008-01-12T21:36:00.001-05:00

this secret pal business is creating interesting outlets and ways to find out interesting things about all of us. our knitting group is very interesting in its people and its dynamics. and i love it. i can't repeat often enough how grateful i am to be a part of this group. being with the group has never failed to lift my spirits. i have never felt judged or pressured or any of the other not-so-nice feelings that i often get in other groups. it is just pure fun. THANK YOU.

to answer the questions, i love earthy tones. my stable colors are brown and green. when i evented with my domino i rode in beige and hunter green and managed to find halters and blankets in those colors for my horse. now i only ride dressage, no jumping, and they're rather stuffy about only wearing black and white (if i ever get back into competition). but i love all variations of those earthy tones and purples. yet my closet is full of reds and blacks. go figure. orange is not a real good color for me.

i have a penchant for collecting just about anything. if i find something i love i keep getting more of it. i discovered tea and have a cabinet full of so many different flavors. but i enjoy them. i do have a small but nice collection of snuff bottles. my uncle's partner gave me one for some reason and then i found a couple on my trip to scotland. when jim died, he left me his snuff bottle collection. they're all rather oriental in style, jade and cloisenet (sp?) and my favorite is carved cinnabar. other than dusting them and thinking of jim each time i do - i was going to say they're rather useless but making me remember jim gives them great meaning.

i also collect animals but i'm trying to give that up because i'll need a kennel license soon.

when i live my perfect life it will be filled with lots of knitting - using up my stash - lots of walks with my dogs and rides with my horse all on my own 5-8 acres near the mountains with incrdible views, lots of curling up with a good book and not falling asleep, lots of opportunities to play games (i love cribbage, backgammon, bridge, trivial pursuit board games, but don't really know anyone else who does), lots of time to watch old movies and garden, lots of time to watch ballets preferrably with my daughter on the stage, and not a court reporting machine in sight.

A visit from my secret pal!

2008-01-12T20:51:00.000-05:00

I was out all day today, and when I got home a little after 7 p.m. there was a package from my secret pal waiting for me on the porch!

I love this clear zippered tote with handles--it is really going to come in handy for organizing and carrying works in progress. And these two skeins of yarn are lovely! I think they will be very nice on the needles. Thanks so much!

What shall I do with this fabulous yarn? Suggestions, anyone?

(Secret pal, can you tell me anything about this yarn? If you like, you can put an anonymous comment to this post with the info.)

Another question for our secret pal swap

2008-01-12T08:56:00.000-05:00

Do you collect anything (besides yarn) ?

Secret Pal Information

2008-01-12T08:32:00.000-05:00

Hi, Secret Pal'ing is fun, especially with a group like you!

I know that you know that I like to knit. But did you also know that I like to play games (cards, cribbage, board games) and work jigsaw puzzles. There's nothing like the feel of a brand new deck of cards in my hands! I like to walk, take a deep breath of fresh air, rake leaves, make snow angels, fly kites, pick up sea shells, skip rocks and stop for pedestrians in front of grocery stores.

I try not to accumulate too much stuff. That being said, I do collect cookie cutters. I'm trying to decide where I could post my database of all the coookies cutter shapes I own, any ideas Marsha?

Some of my favorite munchies are cashews, Frito-lay brand crunchy Cheetos, chocolate and pie - I won a pie eating contest in college and my birthday "cake" is usually a pie!

I avoid some things: smoke, mint, coffee, white chocolate, perfumy scented candles and shellfish. I like little things like pens, papers, notecards, pretty napkins and the Cooper Mini!

I hope this helps.

A question for our secret pal swap

2008-01-11T19:13:00.000-05:00

Hello there, Just Knitters!

Here's a question for our secret pal swap. If you're participating in this swap, please leave your response in the comments to this post (where they'll be easy for your swap partner to find!). And if you're not participating in this swap, feel free to leave your response here anyway--it's fun to get to know more about everyone in this group!

What are your favorite colors?
What colors do you dislike?

My list for our secret pal swap

2008-01-11T19:06:00.000-05:00

Since we don't have a formal questionnaire for our secret pal swap, I'll just point you to the questionnaires I've done for the last two swaps I participated in. They include lots of info that might be useful to my upstream pal. (And I know that it's Katie...I mean Pat...er make that Linda...or Ann...maybe it was Beth...)

The questionnaire for SP11 (which ended two months ago) isn't totally up to date. For example, I've since acquired two of the books I mentioned in #20. And #16 is no longer true, too, because I now own my own swift and winder. (Gina rocks! But you all knew that already...)

Some of my Favorite Things...

2008-01-06T14:09:00.001-05:00

I know we all agreed to let our secret pals know if we have any allergies, kind of clue them in to things we like and don't like. I'm allergic to cats, molds, mildew and dust and I just don't like mustard or mayonaise. I think that's about it for negative stuff.

It was nice making a list of all the things I like; it was easier than I thought. Tomorrow is my birthday and I had some time on my hands today so I worked on a still life of my favorite things. Couldn't cram everything I like into one photo but I covered lots of it.

I like so much stuff it was hard to figure out where to start but here goes in no particular order:

My family (a given) and my friends
Knitting (duh) and all things knitting! Note to secret buddy - I probably own everything I will ever need but still covet new yarns and stuff.
Hiking and taking walks in new places...for that matter I don't mind walking around my neighborhood.
Photography (Anyone willing to pose for me? Anyone willing to have their kids pose for me?? Family shoot???)
Easy Crossword Puzzles, I work the one in the Daily Local News every day. On the days I finish the puzzle I feel like a genius!
Coffee and Tea (decaf only, yawn)
Eating out (especially lunch with dear friends)
Sappy Movies
Murder Mysteries
Sugar Cookies (well all cookies but sugar are my all time favorites)
Candles & Soaps
Snow
Dark Chocolate covered Carmel, Swedish Fish and those gummy frogs with the white bottoms

I'm pretty sure there's a lot of other stuff I like but this is a start...so back to my knitting.
Pat

2008 Knitting "Resolutions"

2008-01-02T09:44:00.000-05:00

Well, I started to think about what I would resolve to do by way of knitting in 2008. And there are things I really want to do and hope to do, but there are only a couple things that I can firmly resolve to do. (I think!)

First and foremost, I totally agree with Ann: that I will make knitting a part of my life every day, even if it means just tidying up my yarn supply or organizing my needles.
More socks. I have acquired a lot of sock yarn in the last year. And after completing that first pair of socks (finally), I've decided that I actually LIKE knitting socks. Especially after I discovered the joys of Addi Turbos. So, that said, I cast-on a second pair of socks while in Illinois on Friday of last week (visiting Todd's sister) and got cranking on them. I am doing the gussets now. I don't think I can commit myself to a pair-a-month, but I do hope to get several pairs of socks done by the end of 2008.
Knit the cashmere stuff for me. As most of you know, I got this awesome cream-colored cashmere yarn back in November. I am going to make a scarf and some-sort-of-head-covering set for myself with the yarn. The scarf will most likely be this one, which is the same pattern as that fabulous purple one that Elizabeth knit. Head covering, ah, not so sure. Possibly a hat but I was also thinking a Calorimetry or some other sort of head-band thingie to cover my ears. I find that most hats overwhelm me.
Finish my mom's knit kimono. It's in merino wool, so hopefully before it gets hot here! I've got a good portion of the back panel done. It's just a lot of repetitive knitting, so my hands get tired.
Knit what will forevermore be called "Marsha's Sweater." Back over the summer, Marsha discovered this sweater pattern in a magazine of Rowan patterns. It's a lovely, wrap-tie sweater in a lattice pattern. Very detailed. Well, we decided that this would be the sweater we make for ourselves. I did some web surfing and found the yarn at a fairly decent price (Rowan Kid Classic). Of course, the pattern also calls for a non-US needle size, so I went and found those too (Size 10.75). Marsha knit her gauge swatch already. I have been a total Slacky McSlackerdoodle about getting my swatch done. But I RESOLVE to get it done. Honestly, the pattern makes me a little nervous. I feel that it is quite an undertaking for me, as it will be my first adult-sized real sweater. However, since I have a friend to commiserate with on it, I think I might just be ok. ;-)

So there you go!

Knitting Resolutions for 2008!

2008-01-01T16:44:00.000-05:00

Elizabeth asked last week about our resolutions for 2008. I've been stewing on this since she asked and I finally came up with a few. In 2007 I set my sights on knitting a pair of socks per month. I've got five pairs to show for it so I think I'd better aim a little lower this year! Well here goes:

I'm going to finish my blue sweater. It's been sitting in the "basket o' shame" for well over a year and it's time it was done. I do think I may have to lose ten pounds or so for it to fit me so part of this resolution is to have the darn thing fit me by the time I finish it...I may have to take my sweet time finishing it!

Along the lines of finishing things, years ago I started a lace sampler and this year I'm going to finish it. I love knitting on it but when you set it down it's a struggle to know where to start again and when you knit on it you really have to pay attention. I do love long rows of mindless knitting, however; 2008 is my year to finish the lace sampler.

Lastly, on my knitting resolutions list is to knit socks again this year with Elizabeth. This year I'm setting my goal at 6 pairs of socks or one single sock per month. Seems resonable as I finished five pairs last year.

I do plan to continue knitting for folks in need and I know that Elizabeth will continue to bring projects to my attention!

Pat

My knitting in 2008

2007-12-30T22:21:00.000-05:00

I don't have any knitting resolutions, really. I have ideas about all sorts of projects I want to start (and, I hope, finish!), but I won't know until the last minute which ones will actually end up on my needles.

I do have two plans, though. One is to figure out what I do with the yarn described here. (Any suggestions? I'm thinking of making a sweater or a poncho for a 12" Waldorf doll.) The other is to knit a sweater for myself--a first!

My Knitting Resolutions

2007-12-30T11:38:00.000-05:00

I only have three resolutions (one with sub-items):

1. I'll finish the projects I begin in a timely manner.

2. I'll complete two old projects:
a. A Gypsy Shawl begun about a year and a half ago. It's knit in blues from Koigu mill ends and Cherry Tree Hill sock yarn. The knitting is complete; the ends have to be drawn through, the bottom border crocheted, and the tassels cut and added.

b. Quite a few years ago I bought seconds of Nature Spun and Nicky Epstein's White on White Afghan. All of the square are knit, but the embellishments have to be sewn on and the squares sewn together. Unfortunately, the seconds weren't from the same dye lot, so I'm also going to have to figure out the best way to arrange the squares.

3. I'm going to investigate if there is a way to put photos in a blog in the places I want them, not always at the top.

A good and (knitting) fruitful new year to you all.

Ruth S.

My Knitting Resolutions

2007-12-28T20:00:00.001-05:00

Elizabeth, I hope I'm not stealing your thunder, but I just finished making bonus at work and I'm playing around and taking a much needed break, which brought me to our blog and made me think about your call for knitting resolutions. It's a ripe time since one of my resolutions is to change my attitude about work and enjoying my life. One of the things I enjoy is knitting and I'm going to do a lot of it in 2008. So --

I firmly resolve to work on the Master Knitter program.
I firmly resolve to finish my UFOs and begin to knit up my stash.
I firmly resolve to start knitting the gifts I planned to give this year so that I can give them next year.
I firmly resolve to make knitting a part of my EVERY day life.
I firmly resolve to allow the joy I feel when I knit and when I get time to spend with my Knitting Buddies to spill over into every aspect of my life.
I firmly resolve to live in joy.

(I also am determined to figure out how to post links and to put pictures in these things.)

Here's to a wonderful 2008 for all of us. Blessings, prosperity, love, and yarn.

Afghans 4 Afghans Part II

2007-12-12T17:05:00.000-05:00

I snapped a couple of photos of my afghan strip, it's about 25" long and 8.5" wide. I'd planned on making this one somewhat narrower than the last one but once I start casting on and knitting; it seemed just as quick and easy to knit across 8"-9" as 5"-6"...honestly, turning the knitting while reading a book can be quite tiresome so wider = better? I do love mindless knitting while reading and these strips are proving good for my reading backlog.

An interesting point here: the bright pink strips were a tiny bit of yarn that sat in the bottom of my unspun basket for ages. I kept telling myself to toss that little bit out but it stayed there, with the thought that it might come in handy as a highlight in some sort of knitting project...it looks pretty good in the strip.

I'm knitting these strips with my Knit Picks Harmony Wood interchangeable knitting needles. I'm trying to give these needles a run for thier money and see if they hold up well or wear out and only time will tell.

Twins' Baby Sweater

2007-12-09T08:51:00.000-05:00

Here goes a try at a blog. As many of you saw, I knit sweaters for Kate and Adrian. The impetus was to knit Leisure Arts' Daddy's Little Girl pattern for Kate. However, in order for Adrian to have a companion sweater, I eliminated the ruffles and picked up other pattern stitches from the sweater for the bottom ribbing and collar.

By the way, for the ruffled collar, I loved the way the collar was knit separately and then attached to the body of the sweater by knitting two together--one stitch from the collar and one from the sweater body.

Afghans 4 Afghans

2007-12-08T13:10:00.000-05:00

One of our knitting buddies has asked that we knit 45" long, garter stitch strips which she will seam together to create baby blankets. These blankets will be donated to the Afghans for Afghans project. I've already knit one strip using odd colors of Cottage Crafts yarn that has been hanging around the house for many years. 45" of garter stitch takes more yarn than I expected but such mindless knitting is a pleasure.

My next baby afghan strip is going to be knit using mainly yarns that I think of as "unspun"; yarns that are very lightly plied and have termendous loft. I have a small basket stuffed full of this yarn; it's not enough of one color for more than a small hat or pair of mittens but just perfect for this strip project. I thought you might enjoy a photo or two of the yarn prior to its being knit.

Now I Have A Question

2007-10-12T09:07:00.000-04:00

Ok, so we all know how yarn has different weights and what that means. For instance, worsted-weight is usually labeled a "4" on the package of yarn and usually requires sizes 6-7-8 needles, or thereabouts.

The Elmore-Pisgah webstore sells A LOT more than just Peaches N' Cream yarn. Some of the stuff is to DIE for! Seriously, check out the rayon chenille. DROOL. Anyway, they also sell some other types of cotton yarn, which I think is primarily used in crochet. But the weights are listed differently. So my question is what is a size 5 cotton (or size 10)? I think they get thinner as the numbers get higher. At least it looks that way. But they have a kit where you can knit a back scrubber and a washcloth using this "size 5" cotton (I WANT IT) ! But I just don't know what the deal is with that weight number. Anyone know what this means?

Thanks!

Peaches N' Cream

2007-10-12T08:52:00.000-04:00

Hey folks:

Here is the online webstore for the Peaches N' Cream yarn:

http://www.elmore-pisgah.com/On%20Line%20Store.htm

If anyone is interested in placing an order, just let me know. Cones are only $6.64!! You can get a 4-pack of the balls (in one colorway) for just $5.08. Single balls are $1.50. Still cheaper than the stores, I think.

Also, here is the site that I mentioned that had a zillion Addi Turbo needle sizes and for cheaper than I've seen anywhere else. Also free shipping!

http://www.yarnandfiber.com/

Ha ha, I'm giving away all my knitting shopping secrets! You guys won't even need me anymore! (sniff, sniff)

2007-10-11T20:03:00.000-04:00

I am showing Ruth how to do a link.

I'm entering the 21st Century!

2007-10-11T18:50:00.000-04:00

Hi Everyone ~ Just testing this out. I made it through the password process. See you all tonight at B&N. I'm not working on a washcloth this evening! lw

2007-10-07T14:27:00.000-04:00

before everyone freaks out, i guess i'm registered as mellisande on this, despite how marsha set it up. i was messing around a while ago and set up a blog under that name. i guess google remembers. anyway, it's me, ann, mingdom, whatever.

2007-10-07T14:17:00.000-04:00

what fun having our own blog.

i started working that lace yarn you gave me, marsha. unfortunately i discovered the pattern is entrelac, which i thought, oh, no problem, i can figure this out. i'm ending up with holes that i don't think are going to get filled in - and they are not part of the lace pattern. does anyone have a suggestion for the best book on entrelac? i'm bound and determined to do this. i think i'm just not figuring out the second step of the process.

Wallaby Issues

2007-10-05T20:50:00.000-04:00

Well, here's* the Wonderful Wallaby on Buttons (as I refer to her in my blog) and I'm seeing that the sleeves are farrrrr too long. Hmmph. Any suggestions? I'm thinking I need to cut the knitting at the cuff, rip up and then pick up stitches and knit down in the seed stitch. I think most of you are familiar with the pattern or have at least seen me knitting it long enough to know that it's knit in the round and then the sleeves are added and it's again knit in the round up to the placket. I will need help and moral support as I do this. If y'all say I can, that is. Thoughts?

*Sorry the pics are sideways, but it either that or no pictures. If you go here, they are rotated correctly in my blog.

Welcome!

2007-10-04T21:18:00.001-04:00

Hello, everyone! Here is a brand spankin' new blog for us all to share! Enjoy!