I was reading one of the blogs I follow and discovered how you spend your New Year's day is how you will spend the rest of the year.
This theory makes sense out of last year's record breaking doctor visits and other medical issues. I took a spill carrying something to the compost heap, banged up my knee and twisted my ankle, the year went to Hades in a handbasket from that moment.
I believe this year has an auspicious beginning. While I did take down curtains and tossed them into the laundry room, we also managed to get a home improvement project completed. One I had the parts for but never got around to doing because it involved two people. I now have fabric shutters across my living room window! No more having everyone who drives by seeing what's on the telly. (Yes, the house is a tad close to the road) Better still, road noise has been cut in half.
I also managed to get in a bit of reading. I checked three books by Clara Parkes out of the library. The Book of Wool was fascinating reading. Her Book of Socks had loads of info on construction. I am seriously considering adding her Book of Yarn to my wish list. This one volume has information on the types of yarn, how it is structured, how it behaves, why it behaves that way and then there are the knitting patterns. I found four I wanted to cast on while flipped through the back of the book.
I also managed to do a wee bit of knitting today. I made up a watch cap in a denim blue colored yarn. It will be making its way to a friend who was promised a knit gift back in December 2010. He's been very patient and understanding. I need to bake some cookies to add into the package. That level of patience deserves a big reward.
Showing posts with label knitting. Show all posts
Showing posts with label knitting. Show all posts
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
Friday, December 30, 2011
Year in Review
Looking back, I managed to knit less. It seems I completed 20 projects this year. I must confess to reading a whole lot more. I devoured read 113 books. The books varied in length from novellas to full length sagas, there were some classics in the mix along with brain candy (romances) and a few non-fiction works.
My recent projects were all gift items or commissions. I completed two hats this week, a pair of house shoes and one head band from Knitty.com.
Calorimetry was made with Lion Brand's wool-ease yarn.
The dog blanket/sweater was made with Caron's Simply Soft. Yes it's an inexpensive acrylic. A dog will be wearing it and the owner doesn't know how to care for good wool
She requested I include a horse shoe for luck. If you click on those images, you can view the larger sized photo.
Hat number one is a simple cover
No real pattern, just cast on and start knitting until it was done.
Hat number two is a version of something found in the Leisure Arts book: Slouchy Beanies.
This year I have also discovered taking pictures of hats in the mirror is a challenge when you have short arms.
My recent projects were all gift items or commissions. I completed two hats this week, a pair of house shoes and one head band from Knitty.com.
Calorimetry was made with Lion Brand's wool-ease yarn.
The dog blanket/sweater was made with Caron's Simply Soft. Yes it's an inexpensive acrylic. A dog will be wearing it and the owner doesn't know how to care for good wool
She requested I include a horse shoe for luck. If you click on those images, you can view the larger sized photo.
Hat number one is a simple cover
No real pattern, just cast on and start knitting until it was done.
Hat number two is a version of something found in the Leisure Arts book: Slouchy Beanies.
This year I have also discovered taking pictures of hats in the mirror is a challenge when you have short arms.
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
November daze
How time flies. I looked at the calendar yesterday and couldn't believe it was already the middle of November. I need to check the stashed presents and see who in the family I still want to shop for.
Along with copious amounts of reading (at 98 books for the year and counting), I have been working on smaller projects. The pumpkin bag I made up for Halloween inspired me to make a slouchy hat. I followed the pattern until the decreases matched a hat opening, changed to a pale green yarn and worked a few rows of ribbing.
I am not only amused by the results, I think I now have a hat to wear while shoveling the end of our driveway. If oncoming traffic cannot see this hat, they are blind.
In other knitting news, I am so far behind on my pay it forward knitting it isn't funny. My only excuse is procrastination. I have finished another project off that list and am going to be shipping it out this week.
Say hello to Norberta
The pattern is from Knitty.com, one of my favorite online knitting newsletters. I like the slightly puzzled air this little dragon has. It's as if everything the humans around her do is a wonder to her.
Last night, the hound and did some volunteer work. If it weren't for my dog, I probably would never be able to stand or move after an hour in a metal folding chair. Arthritis, dampness, plus fibromyalgia = a not happy body.
My fun discovery of the night is that the dog can recognize my phone's new ring tone. One week, with minimal calls and she was able to alert me to the phone ringing in my purse where it was sitting under a mound of coats.
On to the next project.
Along with copious amounts of reading (at 98 books for the year and counting), I have been working on smaller projects. The pumpkin bag I made up for Halloween inspired me to make a slouchy hat. I followed the pattern until the decreases matched a hat opening, changed to a pale green yarn and worked a few rows of ribbing.
I am not only amused by the results, I think I now have a hat to wear while shoveling the end of our driveway. If oncoming traffic cannot see this hat, they are blind.
In other knitting news, I am so far behind on my pay it forward knitting it isn't funny. My only excuse is procrastination. I have finished another project off that list and am going to be shipping it out this week.
Say hello to Norberta
The pattern is from Knitty.com, one of my favorite online knitting newsletters. I like the slightly puzzled air this little dragon has. It's as if everything the humans around her do is a wonder to her.
Last night, the hound and did some volunteer work. If it weren't for my dog, I probably would never be able to stand or move after an hour in a metal folding chair. Arthritis, dampness, plus fibromyalgia = a not happy body.
My fun discovery of the night is that the dog can recognize my phone's new ring tone. One week, with minimal calls and she was able to alert me to the phone ringing in my purse where it was sitting under a mound of coats.
On to the next project.
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Knit and Natter
I've been slow finishing up my last scarf for the Super Bowl project. The pattern is sweet. Knitting 325 stitch rows can be boring. I really miss having a television. One good Ghost Hunters marathon and the scarf would be done.
It's a pretty slip stitch pattern. Unfortunately the pattern is not fully reversible. My only other complaint, I do not have quite enough yarn to complete the last pattern repeat:
I may go ahead and bind off since the scarf is almost 6 inches wide.
The other experiment in color work was a knit hat. I recently finished this little gem and sent it off to a friend.
The pattern can be found in Quick Nordic Knits by Ann-Mari Nilsson. The book is very nice. Patterns are easy to read and there are a variety of skill levels to play with while knitting. I checked a copy out of the library and felt compelled to knit the above hat. Thus showing my fondness for slouchy hats and berets.
In other news, I've decided to deactivate my account on facebook. This is in response to repeated "updates" and new features which make chatting with the relatives more complicated instead of simple. Snail mail is much less stressful even if it does cost money. Seriously, having something update and move each time a contact sneezes let alone likes something or writes a comment is almost seizure inducing. It certainly is nausea inducing.
It's a pretty slip stitch pattern. Unfortunately the pattern is not fully reversible. My only other complaint, I do not have quite enough yarn to complete the last pattern repeat:
I may go ahead and bind off since the scarf is almost 6 inches wide.
The other experiment in color work was a knit hat. I recently finished this little gem and sent it off to a friend.
The pattern can be found in Quick Nordic Knits by Ann-Mari Nilsson. The book is very nice. Patterns are easy to read and there are a variety of skill levels to play with while knitting. I checked a copy out of the library and felt compelled to knit the above hat. Thus showing my fondness for slouchy hats and berets.
In other news, I've decided to deactivate my account on facebook. This is in response to repeated "updates" and new features which make chatting with the relatives more complicated instead of simple. Snail mail is much less stressful even if it does cost money. Seriously, having something update and move each time a contact sneezes let alone likes something or writes a comment is almost seizure inducing. It certainly is nausea inducing.
Monday, August 8, 2011
Knitting, Politics, Budgets
There's been a lot on my mind lately. Most of it having to do with my personal budget. It seems like the cost of everything is going up however, our pay isn't. Add to this a person who has been paying less of his rent because things are tight for him and I'm getting stressed.
The cure for stress is knitting. I promised a baby blanket (or two) for twins back in March. I completed a nice nine patch blanket done in rows of three squares last week. It was supposed to be delivered to the new parents this week. My messenger has car troubles, a snug budget and is not traveling east on his vacation as planned. Instead, he's sitting around waiting for the car to be repaired.
Exhibit One:
Baby Blanket
I did get a package into the mail today. It contains the Tudor shawl, some toys and books for a friend who is going through a rough patch. I now know why I could not find an auction to put this shawl in over the spring months.
Now to the Political part of my program. There was a big recall of Turkey this week. At first I got very excited. I thought the members of our National Legislature had all been sent home.
I'm appalled at how they have twiddled, diddled and done next to nothing about our debt. If I ran my household like they are our country, I'd be in prison for financial fraud, or worse.
After thinking things over, I came up with some short term programs to help ease the country's financial woes. None of this is a cure, but it can't hurt to implement a few basic bits of common sense.
Pay cuts: when a private company has financial trouble, employees get pay cuts. Personally, I'd like to see those folks take a big pay cut. I'm of the firm opinion members of the House and Senate need to make 5 figures, just like members of our military.
Pensions: those little necessities often disappear during a financial crisis. The Legislature members can lose their pensions just like many folks have lost their IRA's, 401's and so called Social Security.
Retinues: Package them up as staff, or whatever you want to call them. There are too many people earning money for following their representative around. Let them get a real job in the real world, or let the states pay those people, but take them out of the national budget.
Cars, Planes, etc: no more five star hotels, minimize the amount of travel you all do, and drive economy vehicles. Show us you really do understand how the rest of the nation is doing.
Earmarks: I saw a reaction from an 'honorable' member of congress where he said "our peculiar institution" You know what, there was another 'peculiar institution' and it cost our nation money and lives. Drop Them. Stop adding expenses to bills/laws. No more back room deals where in "I'll vote for your healthcare if you add in this pet project" Half the time those pet projects have nothing whatsoever to do with the legislation being passed and only benefit the bozo who's pushing for it. We Cannot Afford IT. Quit Spending Money You Don't Have.
And last but not least, let's hear it for term limits. Honestly, there are people serving on Capital Hill who've been there for 30+ years. Do they still have a clue as to what will be in the best interests of the country? I doubt it. Recall them. As voters, we need to look at what our congress persons and senators are doing. We need to stop voting straight party tickets.
Until there are TERM LIMITS on the seats in both the House and Senate, we the voters need to enforce term limits.
NO INCUMBENTS IN 2012
The cure for stress is knitting. I promised a baby blanket (or two) for twins back in March. I completed a nice nine patch blanket done in rows of three squares last week. It was supposed to be delivered to the new parents this week. My messenger has car troubles, a snug budget and is not traveling east on his vacation as planned. Instead, he's sitting around waiting for the car to be repaired.
Exhibit One:
Baby Blanket
I did get a package into the mail today. It contains the Tudor shawl, some toys and books for a friend who is going through a rough patch. I now know why I could not find an auction to put this shawl in over the spring months.
Now to the Political part of my program. There was a big recall of Turkey this week. At first I got very excited. I thought the members of our National Legislature had all been sent home.
I'm appalled at how they have twiddled, diddled and done next to nothing about our debt. If I ran my household like they are our country, I'd be in prison for financial fraud, or worse.
After thinking things over, I came up with some short term programs to help ease the country's financial woes. None of this is a cure, but it can't hurt to implement a few basic bits of common sense.
Pay cuts: when a private company has financial trouble, employees get pay cuts. Personally, I'd like to see those folks take a big pay cut. I'm of the firm opinion members of the House and Senate need to make 5 figures, just like members of our military.
Pensions: those little necessities often disappear during a financial crisis. The Legislature members can lose their pensions just like many folks have lost their IRA's, 401's and so called Social Security.
Retinues: Package them up as staff, or whatever you want to call them. There are too many people earning money for following their representative around. Let them get a real job in the real world, or let the states pay those people, but take them out of the national budget.
Cars, Planes, etc: no more five star hotels, minimize the amount of travel you all do, and drive economy vehicles. Show us you really do understand how the rest of the nation is doing.
Earmarks: I saw a reaction from an 'honorable' member of congress where he said "our peculiar institution" You know what, there was another 'peculiar institution' and it cost our nation money and lives. Drop Them. Stop adding expenses to bills/laws. No more back room deals where in "I'll vote for your healthcare if you add in this pet project" Half the time those pet projects have nothing whatsoever to do with the legislation being passed and only benefit the bozo who's pushing for it. We Cannot Afford IT. Quit Spending Money You Don't Have.
And last but not least, let's hear it for term limits. Honestly, there are people serving on Capital Hill who've been there for 30+ years. Do they still have a clue as to what will be in the best interests of the country? I doubt it. Recall them. As voters, we need to look at what our congress persons and senators are doing. We need to stop voting straight party tickets.
Until there are TERM LIMITS on the seats in both the House and Senate, we the voters need to enforce term limits.
NO INCUMBENTS IN 2012
Sunday, July 31, 2011
Working and Reading
Over the years I have become less heat tolerant. This means less time where I can easily work in my butterfly garden. I decided to make an attempt at beating back what is fast looking like a rain forest. The back yard is the finger system for our septic tank, so all of the plants are very happy and very big.
After wacking down a pokeberry shrub and taking out the sapling which seems to have a love affair with our deck, I sprayed the driveway weeds with a combination of vinegar and salt. I got the recipe from a friend who swears by it. She also warned me nothing will grow in the sprayed areas for two years. I'm good with the idea of no drive way weeds for that long, or longer.
Since it is summer, and warm, I spend a lot of time reading. So far this year, I've read 57 books, most of them are novella length or full sized novels of 400 or more pages. I should focus more on growing my direct sales business. My only excuse is that reading feels safer to me.
Knitting continues, I'm working on a hat, a baby blanket and want to knit up Alan Dart's chess set. I got that pattern in the June copy of Simply Knitting. It looks like something fun to make and it will be useful since I like to play chess. I might try adapting the pattern and giving the pieces specific personalities based on a series of books. We'll see how ambitious I get over the fall.
Ramadan started today. I have a few Muslim friends who fast during this time. I wish them a good holiday. Lammas is in another day, to all of my Pagan friends, have a good celebration of first fruits.
After wacking down a pokeberry shrub and taking out the sapling which seems to have a love affair with our deck, I sprayed the driveway weeds with a combination of vinegar and salt. I got the recipe from a friend who swears by it. She also warned me nothing will grow in the sprayed areas for two years. I'm good with the idea of no drive way weeds for that long, or longer.
Since it is summer, and warm, I spend a lot of time reading. So far this year, I've read 57 books, most of them are novella length or full sized novels of 400 or more pages. I should focus more on growing my direct sales business. My only excuse is that reading feels safer to me.
Knitting continues, I'm working on a hat, a baby blanket and want to knit up Alan Dart's chess set. I got that pattern in the June copy of Simply Knitting. It looks like something fun to make and it will be useful since I like to play chess. I might try adapting the pattern and giving the pieces specific personalities based on a series of books. We'll see how ambitious I get over the fall.
Ramadan started today. I have a few Muslim friends who fast during this time. I wish them a good holiday. Lammas is in another day, to all of my Pagan friends, have a good celebration of first fruits.
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
Blankets, Scarves and Hats, Oh My!
It's winter here in the Midwest which means the weather forecasters are predicting gloom, doom and end of the world scenarios. So far, it's been a normal winter.
With that in mind, and my resolution to knit more, I've dug in my stash and started to use yarns I bought with certain projects in mind. I am finally getting around to them.
I made one baby blanket and have two more on the needles
Then there is the blue and white insanity which is called the Super Bowl Scarf Project
This is my third contribution to the cause
I wanted to make something quick. I needed to see progress in my knitting and pulled out a partial skein of bright red wool along with a skein of mixed red, blue and purple wool blend.
When I cast on, I thought it would be nice to make a beret. I was too lazy to dig out a pattern and put 82 stitches on a US size 10 needle, closed the circle and managed not to twist the stitches. That is always cause for celebration.
After an inch of k2p2 ribbing, I began to knit plain. I decided to place markers every 21 stitches and increased one stitch before and after each marker on every fourth row. This gave me a nice shape. When I thought I had enough increases, I decreased one stitch front and back of each marker at every fourth row.
The decreases eventually made a need to switch to double point needles, and once I was down to 8 stitches, I cut the yarn, slipped the tail through those final stitches and tightened up the hat.
After two rounds in the wash with my darks (heavy agitation, lots of pounding) the hat was the right size for me to wear.
I love it when a plan comes together
With that in mind, and my resolution to knit more, I've dug in my stash and started to use yarns I bought with certain projects in mind. I am finally getting around to them.
I made one baby blanket and have two more on the needles
Then there is the blue and white insanity which is called the Super Bowl Scarf Project
This is my third contribution to the cause
I wanted to make something quick. I needed to see progress in my knitting and pulled out a partial skein of bright red wool along with a skein of mixed red, blue and purple wool blend.
When I cast on, I thought it would be nice to make a beret. I was too lazy to dig out a pattern and put 82 stitches on a US size 10 needle, closed the circle and managed not to twist the stitches. That is always cause for celebration.
After an inch of k2p2 ribbing, I began to knit plain. I decided to place markers every 21 stitches and increased one stitch before and after each marker on every fourth row. This gave me a nice shape. When I thought I had enough increases, I decreased one stitch front and back of each marker at every fourth row.
The decreases eventually made a need to switch to double point needles, and once I was down to 8 stitches, I cut the yarn, slipped the tail through those final stitches and tightened up the hat.
After two rounds in the wash with my darks (heavy agitation, lots of pounding) the hat was the right size for me to wear.
I love it when a plan comes together
Friday, October 29, 2010
This Hat Which is Completed
I did it, I finally got the hat down to normal hat size. There was great rejoicing at this achievement.
It sits a little high in this photo because of my hair clip. There is enough room to wear the hat with my hair pinned up, yet it is snug enough to not blow off if my hair is down.
Knit in the round on US size 9 needles with Fritisgarn wool. This is a bulky yarn from Iceland (I think the band is in Icelandic) and it knits up very nicely. The yarn does make a solid material when felted that has enough play in it to allow for shaping.
In other news, I'm currently listening to the sounds of rattan being loaded into the truck for tomorrow's Crown Tourney. The shop will be there rain or shine. I'm staying home with the guard pets and doing a bit of baking. The weather has been good for staying indoors and being productive in a warm environment.
It sits a little high in this photo because of my hair clip. There is enough room to wear the hat with my hair pinned up, yet it is snug enough to not blow off if my hair is down.
Knit in the round on US size 9 needles with Fritisgarn wool. This is a bulky yarn from Iceland (I think the band is in Icelandic) and it knits up very nicely. The yarn does make a solid material when felted that has enough play in it to allow for shaping.
In other news, I'm currently listening to the sounds of rattan being loaded into the truck for tomorrow's Crown Tourney. The shop will be there rain or shine. I'm staying home with the guard pets and doing a bit of baking. The weather has been good for staying indoors and being productive in a warm environment.
Saturday, October 23, 2010
This Hat Which Needs Felting
Last weekend, I went to the Corydon fiber festival. It's not Rhinebeck by any stretch of the imagination. However, there were some good bargains to be found. I also had nice visits with other textile fanatics.
I had planned on knitting in the car on the way there and back. Alas, I ran around the house like a mad woman looking for the right sized needle the night before and the morning of our trip and had no luck. I took along the yarn and pattern just in case I found the right sized circular needle and found zero circular knitting needles. Oh well. If I'd been knitting I may not have seen the deer, the fall leaves or the neat older homes along the way.
We got home safely and I found the blasted needle. It was hiding in my basket, laughing at me. I cast on red Fristisgarn:
and got to work. I knit a few times during the week. Then today came the big burst of "just another row" followed by, "I can see the end" and the inevitable "why don't you get larger?"
I did eventually have to switch to double points and an hour after that, I had the following:
I am not too sure of the brim. It may need to be a touch wider. Tomorrow this hat will be taking the big plunge into hot water with lots of beating and felting. If all goes well, it will be a person sized hat.
I had planned on knitting in the car on the way there and back. Alas, I ran around the house like a mad woman looking for the right sized needle the night before and the morning of our trip and had no luck. I took along the yarn and pattern just in case I found the right sized circular needle and found zero circular knitting needles. Oh well. If I'd been knitting I may not have seen the deer, the fall leaves or the neat older homes along the way.
We got home safely and I found the blasted needle. It was hiding in my basket, laughing at me. I cast on red Fristisgarn:
and got to work. I knit a few times during the week. Then today came the big burst of "just another row" followed by, "I can see the end" and the inevitable "why don't you get larger?"
I did eventually have to switch to double points and an hour after that, I had the following:
I am not too sure of the brim. It may need to be a touch wider. Tomorrow this hat will be taking the big plunge into hot water with lots of beating and felting. If all goes well, it will be a person sized hat.
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Of Scarves and Bracelets
I finally completed a garter stitch scarf for the superbowl scarf project. It should not have taken so long to work on. I blame my lack of motivation on how hectic life has been. Also I blame it on my short attention span. I only knit on this project while watching Ghost Hunters on Wednesday evenings.
Last night I went to the local library and taught a beginning knitting class to 9 people. Two folks showed up late and didn't get started since the library closed 30 minutes after they arrived. They did make head way in getting yarn from a hank into a ball. Next month I have got to remember to take along my swift and my ball winder. Those tools will speed things up.
I am planning on sending out an email to the students with an invite/reminder for the local knitting group's gathering on the third Wednesday of the month. I think they'll enjoy it and they will also have more time with knitters while they work on their scarves.
Recently some friends and I were chatting about ways to keep small children from wandering off in a crowd. I mentioned the bracelets linked with cord my younger step-daughter and her mother would wear. This system was made up because the younger child showed signs of being the second coming of Houdini.
There are two bracelets made from ribbon and attached to each other with a sturdy cord. I made the above as a present for one of the ladies in chat night after she requested a set.
~~
I'm still fighting the major depression. It's been a rough season. One daughter was rear ended and is fine. We're now shopping for a replacement car for her. The other daughter's vehicle needed serious repairs due to parts wearing out, our water heater was feeling neglected and sprung a leak. That's been replaced.
To top it all off, a friend passed away over the weekend. I'm alternating between numb and celebrating. You have to understand. This lady spent 25 years as a quadriplegic and is no longer stuck in a hospital bed or a wheel chair.
More knitting will be forthcoming. I promise.
Last night I went to the local library and taught a beginning knitting class to 9 people. Two folks showed up late and didn't get started since the library closed 30 minutes after they arrived. They did make head way in getting yarn from a hank into a ball. Next month I have got to remember to take along my swift and my ball winder. Those tools will speed things up.
I am planning on sending out an email to the students with an invite/reminder for the local knitting group's gathering on the third Wednesday of the month. I think they'll enjoy it and they will also have more time with knitters while they work on their scarves.
Recently some friends and I were chatting about ways to keep small children from wandering off in a crowd. I mentioned the bracelets linked with cord my younger step-daughter and her mother would wear. This system was made up because the younger child showed signs of being the second coming of Houdini.
There are two bracelets made from ribbon and attached to each other with a sturdy cord. I made the above as a present for one of the ladies in chat night after she requested a set.
~~
I'm still fighting the major depression. It's been a rough season. One daughter was rear ended and is fine. We're now shopping for a replacement car for her. The other daughter's vehicle needed serious repairs due to parts wearing out, our water heater was feeling neglected and sprung a leak. That's been replaced.
To top it all off, a friend passed away over the weekend. I'm alternating between numb and celebrating. You have to understand. This lady spent 25 years as a quadriplegic and is no longer stuck in a hospital bed or a wheel chair.
More knitting will be forthcoming. I promise.
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Power Outages and Knitting
Sunday morning we were awakened by a loud boom. I honestly thought we were finally going to get rain. The thunder like sound didn't repeat which made me open my eyes to check the time. My clock was dark. That motivated me to sit up and look out the window to the south.
It was still dark outside, and the traffic light a block away didn't appear to be working. There were however sparks. Lots of sparks from a downed power line and blinking red lights from emergency crews. Someone hit a pole and took down the power lines. No one was hurt. Four hours later, we had electricity and water. The perils of having a well include not having water when the power goes out. This accident made me realize it was approaching the time of year to start keeping jugs of water in the house.
The rational part of me was very glad to find out no one was hurt. The irrational part of my brain went into full parent mode. I spent Sunday alternating between wanting to smack someone for texting while driving and wanting to shake them for endangering themselves and others. I also wanted to celebrate their not being killed.
I'm in a better mental place than I was with my last entry. As you can see by the way I bounce around I am not fully recovered.
Since this blog is supposed to be about needle work and pets, I bring you a poncho.
This one was knit on US size 13 needles using a boucle yarn. I wanted to play with color and texture so I knit a section, joined the garment in a circle and knit more then bound off and cast on in a different direction for the bottom. I'm rather pleased with the way the yarn's colors played out as I worked.
I have also been working on a scarf for when this city hosts the Super Bowl. Since I'm not using the "official" yarn, the scarf I'm making is for a friend who plans on being a volunteer at the big game in 2012. Pictures of blue and white alpaca next time. I promise.
It was still dark outside, and the traffic light a block away didn't appear to be working. There were however sparks. Lots of sparks from a downed power line and blinking red lights from emergency crews. Someone hit a pole and took down the power lines. No one was hurt. Four hours later, we had electricity and water. The perils of having a well include not having water when the power goes out. This accident made me realize it was approaching the time of year to start keeping jugs of water in the house.
The rational part of me was very glad to find out no one was hurt. The irrational part of my brain went into full parent mode. I spent Sunday alternating between wanting to smack someone for texting while driving and wanting to shake them for endangering themselves and others. I also wanted to celebrate their not being killed.
I'm in a better mental place than I was with my last entry. As you can see by the way I bounce around I am not fully recovered.
Since this blog is supposed to be about needle work and pets, I bring you a poncho.
This one was knit on US size 13 needles using a boucle yarn. I wanted to play with color and texture so I knit a section, joined the garment in a circle and knit more then bound off and cast on in a different direction for the bottom. I'm rather pleased with the way the yarn's colors played out as I worked.
I have also been working on a scarf for when this city hosts the Super Bowl. Since I'm not using the "official" yarn, the scarf I'm making is for a friend who plans on being a volunteer at the big game in 2012. Pictures of blue and white alpaca next time. I promise.
Thursday, May 13, 2010
needlework and other things
I have a fondness for fine needlework and a friend recently pointed me to Chef Tiger's Kitchen which is doing a give away. The needlework set/box has very pretty accessories in it.
I'm making a second cozy for the vigil light at church. This one is in liturgical red. For those who haven't see my post about the purple one I made, the base for our vigil light is very large and ornate. There are certain times of year when covering it is desired by our current priest. Some of us in the parish think covering the base year round is a desirable thing.
For those of you who live in the United States of America and are fans of Avon products, they are having a sale on lip gloss. Each Glazewear purchase comes with the opportunity to win a 2010 chevy. Check with your favorite independent AVON sales representative, or visit my little store for more details.
I'm making a second cozy for the vigil light at church. This one is in liturgical red. For those who haven't see my post about the purple one I made, the base for our vigil light is very large and ornate. There are certain times of year when covering it is desired by our current priest. Some of us in the parish think covering the base year round is a desirable thing.
For those of you who live in the United States of America and are fans of Avon products, they are having a sale on lip gloss. Each Glazewear purchase comes with the opportunity to win a 2010 chevy. Check with your favorite independent AVON sales representative, or visit my little store for more details.
Thursday, May 6, 2010
On the Road Again
I'm not, neither are the critters. Our rattan business however, will be in Perrysburg, Ohio this weekend at an SCA event. We're hoping to make lots of fighters happy with our current selection of rattan. There is more stock on order. It has not arrived as of this evening. The thought has occurred to us that we will get the call saying it is at the local Yellow Freight hub about the time our rig is in northern Indiana.
In other news, the Fibro has settled down and my inner voice is no longer shrieking like Miracle Max's wife. I have passed the pre-screening for a study. Fibromyalgia patients who qualify will be sorted into two groups, one group will receive savella, the other will be receiving a placebo. I don't care which one I end up in. I'm just tickled I can help others by participating. The more doctors can learn about this disease, the better the odds of them finding a cure.
I am working on a few knitting projects. No photos to show off at present. I completed a prayer shawl last night and need to package it for shipping. I plan on working on hubby's socks next followed by finishing up my wimple. I want to stick with some short and easy projects for this month before I begin making baby things for various friends.
In other news, the Fibro has settled down and my inner voice is no longer shrieking like Miracle Max's wife. I have passed the pre-screening for a study. Fibromyalgia patients who qualify will be sorted into two groups, one group will receive savella, the other will be receiving a placebo. I don't care which one I end up in. I'm just tickled I can help others by participating. The more doctors can learn about this disease, the better the odds of them finding a cure.
I am working on a few knitting projects. No photos to show off at present. I completed a prayer shawl last night and need to package it for shipping. I plan on working on hubby's socks next followed by finishing up my wimple. I want to stick with some short and easy projects for this month before I begin making baby things for various friends.
Saturday, March 27, 2010
Home Again, Home Again
We traveled to Lumberton, Mississippi the other week and camped at King's Arrow Ranch. This was for our hobby, the S.C.A. While attending Gulf Wars XX, I taught a class on darning and other mending and two classes on basic hand sewing.
The weather was clear, cool and almost ideal for camping. It did get a touch cold at night. We packed down on Saturday and managed to leave the camp before predicted rain arrived and missed out on the snow. Yes, it apparently snowed in southern Mississippi.
While on the road, I did a small amount of knitting.
This is another wimple. I plan on keeping this for myself. I have a few small trade silver charms I want to work into the lace border.
I also have a sock on my needles. It's the second of a pair and I sincerely hope to complete it by next weekend.
One other accomplishment from this trip
I learned I no longer should climb on furniture to lower the seven foot tall tent walls. There are some things even the best trained dog cannot prevent from happening.
We're home now. It's warmer here and I have flowers in bloom. Our next events might be the Greencastle Fiber Fair, Feast of Three Saints in Rivenstar, and Baron Wars in Perrysburg, Ohio.
Note the key word: might.
The weather was clear, cool and almost ideal for camping. It did get a touch cold at night. We packed down on Saturday and managed to leave the camp before predicted rain arrived and missed out on the snow. Yes, it apparently snowed in southern Mississippi.
While on the road, I did a small amount of knitting.
This is another wimple. I plan on keeping this for myself. I have a few small trade silver charms I want to work into the lace border.
I also have a sock on my needles. It's the second of a pair and I sincerely hope to complete it by next weekend.
One other accomplishment from this trip
I learned I no longer should climb on furniture to lower the seven foot tall tent walls. There are some things even the best trained dog cannot prevent from happening.
We're home now. It's warmer here and I have flowers in bloom. Our next events might be the Greencastle Fiber Fair, Feast of Three Saints in Rivenstar, and Baron Wars in Perrysburg, Ohio.
Note the key word: might.
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Knit and Natter
I've been off reading and knitting. It's healthier than fretting over bills, the economy, or the state of the world in general.
This is my third shawl done on US size 13 needles with a boucle yarn. I like the color changes on the blue almost as much as the so called brown. Actually, that one should have been named autumn because it had a lot of gold and orange in it.
same thing in red, which was disappointing for the lack of color changes. Ah well, one can't have everything.
I am also working on a block a month throw. This one was for January.
My M.I.L. saw this and positively drooled. I think I know what she'll be getting for next Christmas.
Hubby ran a sale on rattan during our slow month. We had two orders that took forever to arrive. At least, I hope they've arrived by now. I managed to sell two magazines this week. I really should finish adding the books and magazines to our online store instead of relying on word of mouth to sell them.
Today is Val-Day in Kalamazoo. Hubby was at the event with rattan and yarn. Last week, we only took yarn to an event and he still managed to sell three sticks of rattan. He's decided to add Winter's End to our schedule this month. After that, we have the push to prepare for Gulf Wars down in Lumberton, Mississippi.
This little beauty arrived in the mail yesterday. Hubby ordered it from Clang Armory. They do nice work on the forge. The rose even had a bit of rose scent on it which made the dogs happy. My hound mix likes the smell of roses very much.
Time for a bit more knitting and to wind down for the evening. Tomorrow will be a busy day.
This is my third shawl done on US size 13 needles with a boucle yarn. I like the color changes on the blue almost as much as the so called brown. Actually, that one should have been named autumn because it had a lot of gold and orange in it.
same thing in red, which was disappointing for the lack of color changes. Ah well, one can't have everything.
I am also working on a block a month throw. This one was for January.
My M.I.L. saw this and positively drooled. I think I know what she'll be getting for next Christmas.
Hubby ran a sale on rattan during our slow month. We had two orders that took forever to arrive. At least, I hope they've arrived by now. I managed to sell two magazines this week. I really should finish adding the books and magazines to our online store instead of relying on word of mouth to sell them.
Today is Val-Day in Kalamazoo. Hubby was at the event with rattan and yarn. Last week, we only took yarn to an event and he still managed to sell three sticks of rattan. He's decided to add Winter's End to our schedule this month. After that, we have the push to prepare for Gulf Wars down in Lumberton, Mississippi.
This little beauty arrived in the mail yesterday. Hubby ordered it from Clang Armory. They do nice work on the forge. The rose even had a bit of rose scent on it which made the dogs happy. My hound mix likes the smell of roses very much.
Time for a bit more knitting and to wind down for the evening. Tomorrow will be a busy day.
Saturday, December 20, 2008
Frustration
I've been a touch frustrated lately. I fully understand how everyone has less descretionary funds. I just wish I could make a few more sales in the online store.
No good deed goes unpunished. One year ago, I bought out a friend to help her retire. While I was wanting to have an online shop, I had (and still have) very definite ideas of what I want to carry. Unfortunately, most of what I bought does not fit the bill. It is very nice yarn. It does not work for reenacting or recreating historical clothing. I have a lot of Crystal Palace fizz, glam, deco and Debbie Bliss yarns, along with Ironstone's Desert nights and Paris nights, there is mohair, rayon, and ribbon yarns. None of it is in large quantities. There is likely enough of most items to make a single project. In a fit of inspiration, I did package some of these items to sell off at one price.
The economy being what it is, not too many people are purchasing odd lots of yarn. Maybe I could request a bail out? Or, do you think the tax man would accept yarn instead of cash?
~~
In other news, I discovered I am allergic to mohair. Not a mild, oh it itches allergy. I break out in hives if I touch the stuff. Irony = owning a yarn shop and being allergic to one third of what you have in stock.
I have been working on these wash clothes this week. I have a stack of five completed. Just four more to go before the holiday. I know that sounds odd or cheap, but that's the stocking stuffer this year. Everyone gets a fancy new dishcloth. It's the thought that counts.
~~
Upcoming events:
Visit MGA/Two Dogs Yarn Shop at these upcoming SCA events:
Regular Event in Cleftlands 24 Jan
Better War through Archery 7 Feb.
Gulf Wars in Gleann Abhain 15 - 21 March
Three Saints at Rivenstar 11 April
Midrealm Coronation 2 & 3 May
Baron Wars in Red Spears 8 - 10 May
Midrealm Crown Tourney 23 24 May
~~
shameless exploitation of my pets: http://www.cafepress.com/twodogsyarns
I plan on having more of my photos available there in the future. Look for flowers, knitting related shirts and other goodies after New Year.
No good deed goes unpunished. One year ago, I bought out a friend to help her retire. While I was wanting to have an online shop, I had (and still have) very definite ideas of what I want to carry. Unfortunately, most of what I bought does not fit the bill. It is very nice yarn. It does not work for reenacting or recreating historical clothing. I have a lot of Crystal Palace fizz, glam, deco and Debbie Bliss yarns, along with Ironstone's Desert nights and Paris nights, there is mohair, rayon, and ribbon yarns. None of it is in large quantities. There is likely enough of most items to make a single project. In a fit of inspiration, I did package some of these items to sell off at one price.
The economy being what it is, not too many people are purchasing odd lots of yarn. Maybe I could request a bail out? Or, do you think the tax man would accept yarn instead of cash?
~~
In other news, I discovered I am allergic to mohair. Not a mild, oh it itches allergy. I break out in hives if I touch the stuff. Irony = owning a yarn shop and being allergic to one third of what you have in stock.
I have been working on these wash clothes this week. I have a stack of five completed. Just four more to go before the holiday. I know that sounds odd or cheap, but that's the stocking stuffer this year. Everyone gets a fancy new dishcloth. It's the thought that counts.
~~
Upcoming events:
Visit MGA/Two Dogs Yarn Shop at these upcoming SCA events:
Regular Event in Cleftlands 24 Jan
Better War through Archery 7 Feb.
Gulf Wars in Gleann Abhain 15 - 21 March
Three Saints at Rivenstar 11 April
Midrealm Coronation 2 & 3 May
Baron Wars in Red Spears 8 - 10 May
Midrealm Crown Tourney 23 24 May
~~
shameless exploitation of my pets: http://www.cafepress.com/twodogsyarns
I plan on having more of my photos available there in the future. Look for flowers, knitting related shirts and other goodies after New Year.
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