One more step towards getting "back to normal" I started doing demo's again
but with a new company. Just a couple hours a week but it's a start. This will be short term
job....through the beginning of Nov. then done until the new year. That's fine with me. it is
fun talking with people and seeing their pets.
Now my goal is to try to make a dent in the stash! Seems I've said that before but this time i'm doing it. Whenever I start something with
new yarn I also pull out an unfinished project or start
something with stash yarn...so far so good!
Just finished a top down pullover that I really enjoyed
working on. Stash project is the log cabin afghan that's
been tucked away for years. I don't really like it....I' ve definitely become
a yarn snob since that was started! It's going to go to my son's house. Now that I have a purpose for it I don't mind working on it.
Otn now is a shrug out of Casablanca by Cascade. It's pretty but pulls
apart really easy. The company says it shouldn't be wound on a
ball winder....hmm, maybe they should mention that on the label!
A pair of socks are in the works too. They are a b'day gift for my
son's gf. Did I mention her b'day was in July? She picked out the
yarn and I told her she'd get them once the weather got cold...
which it has.
I'm in two knitting groups now....Monday evenings and Wed.
afternoons. The Mon. night group are all doing the shrug...fun to see
it in all the different colors. Wed's group is a support group at the
shop Have Ewe Any Wool in Snyder(great shop). There everyone
works on whatever.....that's always interesting to see new
projects. That can become a bad thing too...specially since
you're surrounded by yarn!
I've got to start posting using the computer....this phone thing
is tough on the eyes/fingers specially this time of night!
Nite
Off to read
Saturday, October 20, 2012
Friday, October 19, 2012
Fight like a girl
2012......well over a year since my last post. Don't even know if anyone will read this
but I'm writing anyway.....kind of like talking to myself.
A month after my last post I was diagnosed with breast cancer. I remember the tests
and then them telling me we'd have the results by the end of the week....that was Monday.
Early Wed. morning the phone rang-my hand was shaking as they told me
the news. The rest of the day went by in a blur. From that day
things moved quickly.....at least looking back it seems like it
did....at the time it felt like everything took forever to get started.
Once a course of action was decided on it was one appointment
after another. Then it was dealing with 12 weeks of chemo every
Wed.,the hair loss,the exhaustion,weird rashes,mouth sores. Seems one
thing would clear up just in time for something else to happen!
My doctors were great .....you have a whole team taking care of you.
Had surgery in Oct.a year ago. Had to stay in the hospital
longer than normal because I couldn't eat.The next weeks were
spent mostly sitting/sleeping in the recliner...couldn't get
comfortable anywhere else. Dh was right there by my side through
it all. He was my rock when I'd get discouraged he'd cheer me up.
Shingles was the insult to injury tho....dealing with that two weeks
after surgery was almost too much to bare.
Chemo every 3 weeks for a year and here I am. Almost myself....they
tell me it takes up to a year to really feel totally back to normal.
I'm taking each day as it comes....my new motto....don't worry if the
house isn't perfect or laundry needs to be done...it can wait while I nap
or read/knit..it'll be there when I get to it!
Enough for now....bedtime
but I'm writing anyway.....kind of like talking to myself.
A month after my last post I was diagnosed with breast cancer. I remember the tests
and then them telling me we'd have the results by the end of the week....that was Monday.
Early Wed. morning the phone rang-my hand was shaking as they told me
the news. The rest of the day went by in a blur. From that day
things moved quickly.....at least looking back it seems like it
did....at the time it felt like everything took forever to get started.
Once a course of action was decided on it was one appointment
after another. Then it was dealing with 12 weeks of chemo every
Wed.,the hair loss,the exhaustion,weird rashes,mouth sores. Seems one
thing would clear up just in time for something else to happen!
My doctors were great .....you have a whole team taking care of you.
Had surgery in Oct.a year ago. Had to stay in the hospital
longer than normal because I couldn't eat.The next weeks were
spent mostly sitting/sleeping in the recliner...couldn't get
comfortable anywhere else. Dh was right there by my side through
it all. He was my rock when I'd get discouraged he'd cheer me up.
Shingles was the insult to injury tho....dealing with that two weeks
after surgery was almost too much to bare.
Chemo every 3 weeks for a year and here I am. Almost myself....they
tell me it takes up to a year to really feel totally back to normal.
I'm taking each day as it comes....my new motto....don't worry if the
house isn't perfect or laundry needs to be done...it can wait while I nap
or read/knit..it'll be there when I get to it!
Enough for now....bedtime
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Can It Be???
Is it possible that I haven't blogged in over a year?? Funny I've been thinking about blogging the last few days and in my email today came a reminder from blogger.....maybe it's karma that I blog again?
I thought of deleting this blog and starting over but that would take more effort than I can muster up right now. Think I'll just clean this one up a bit. Hopefully I remember how!
My New Year's resolution is to go through my projects and finish things that have been otn. I'm tired of moving overflowing bags with half done projects! The Einstein jacket is finally done and I've even worn it! Now The Lady Eleanor wrap has my undivided attention!
One more tier to go and then the fringe! hmmm, how may years ago did I start that??
I'm also trying to knit a pair of socks a month. Doesn't sound too difficult ....since I have a couple pair that only need their mate!
Thought I'd tuck them away and next year I'll have a few to pick from for gifts since I did no holiday knitting this past Xmas.
Well, that's it for now...it's knitting time
I thought of deleting this blog and starting over but that would take more effort than I can muster up right now. Think I'll just clean this one up a bit. Hopefully I remember how!
My New Year's resolution is to go through my projects and finish things that have been otn. I'm tired of moving overflowing bags with half done projects! The Einstein jacket is finally done and I've even worn it! Now The Lady Eleanor wrap has my undivided attention!
One more tier to go and then the fringe! hmmm, how may years ago did I start that??
I'm also trying to knit a pair of socks a month. Doesn't sound too difficult ....since I have a couple pair that only need their mate!
Thought I'd tuck them away and next year I'll have a few to pick from for gifts since I did no holiday knitting this past Xmas.
Well, that's it for now...it's knitting time
Wednesday, May 06, 2009
May already??
Where does the time go?? When I was a kid I would hear someone say that and wonder what the heck are they talking about...now I get it! Wasn't it just Christmas?
The weather here is finally starting to feel a bit like spring. Now that means all the yard work begins. I can hardly move tonight after doing some weeding yesterday and again this afternoon! I got quite a bit cleaned up but there's still so much more to do. KK got the pond running so I'll get some fish soon. I think the nights are a bit too cold yet for them.
This past weekend we had the first Yarn Shop Hop! It was really fun spending two days with friends and running around to the shops! The ending was a party with lots of food and giveaways! I didn't win but one of the women with me won the grand prize! It was a mammoth basket packed with yarny goodness! In it was the felted Poinsettia felted wreath kit which she gave to me! So in around about way I won too! Got more info on spinning and wheels. I think that's the next step for me!
Would have liked to make the Sheep and Wool festival in Maryland but maybe next year! From what I hear I'd better start saving now!
Saw some new summer yarns that were nice. Did get some summer weight sock yarn of course!
Let's see, what else is new?? hmmm, knitting the Kyler's Cardigan a Cottage Creation pattern. It's an all garter stitch sweater so it's pretty easy knitting. A couple new techniques but so far so good! I'd like to have it finished before the weather gets much warmer since it's all wool. It's a top down so there's a lot of sweater in your lap!
The weather here is finally starting to feel a bit like spring. Now that means all the yard work begins. I can hardly move tonight after doing some weeding yesterday and again this afternoon! I got quite a bit cleaned up but there's still so much more to do. KK got the pond running so I'll get some fish soon. I think the nights are a bit too cold yet for them.
This past weekend we had the first Yarn Shop Hop! It was really fun spending two days with friends and running around to the shops! The ending was a party with lots of food and giveaways! I didn't win but one of the women with me won the grand prize! It was a mammoth basket packed with yarny goodness! In it was the felted Poinsettia felted wreath kit which she gave to me! So in around about way I won too! Got more info on spinning and wheels. I think that's the next step for me!
Would have liked to make the Sheep and Wool festival in Maryland but maybe next year! From what I hear I'd better start saving now!
Saw some new summer yarns that were nice. Did get some summer weight sock yarn of course!
Let's see, what else is new?? hmmm, knitting the Kyler's Cardigan a Cottage Creation pattern. It's an all garter stitch sweater so it's pretty easy knitting. A couple new techniques but so far so good! I'd like to have it finished before the weather gets much warmer since it's all wool. It's a top down so there's a lot of sweater in your lap!
I'm pleased with the FLS and I think I may do it again. I've gotten a lot of compliments when I wear it.
I did do the Pinwheel blanket that we started at one of the Guild workshops. Hopefully you're looking at a photo of it! It's a good tv/movie watching project once you get it off the dpn's and on the circulars. I would like to do it again in a nicer yarn..this yarn seemed almost too soft for it.
I finally did a felted bag that I've been wanting for myself. I used up odd bits of Lamb's Pride that I've had leftover from other projects. I had it lined then decided it needed to be felted more so now I have to redo the lining. I'll get a photo once it's finished.
Not much else happening...we took a couple day trips to combat the cabin fever we were getting but now with the nicer weather there's plenty to do!
I'm going to try to get back to blogging ...I don't know where my time goes!
Off to bed
Wednesday, March 04, 2009
What knitting??
We had a wonderful few days away but I think I left my knitting mojo there! Since we've been back I just can't get back into the mood. I'm very restless..could it be spring fever?? Already?
I hope not because if the recent temp.'s are any indication we have some time to go before spring hits! One nice thing though as cold as it's been the roads are clear. The other day we were out on one of the main roads and I thought it was snowing up ahead but it was powder from the road salt being scattered about from the traffic! The days have been sunny and clear but oh so cold! If there is even a slight breeze it goes right through to the bones! Good scarf weather for sure!
I digress, back on the subject of knitting.....there's none to write about! At least not much. I have made progress on the Berroco Sox sweater. The back is almost done and there's a couple inches on one sleeve. I do enjoy it because it's that easy mindless watch tv knitting. With working on that I don't feel like I've accomplished anything else. While away I started a sock on dpn's! Shocking , I know but I must admit I'm liking them. I picked up a really short pair of dpn's and they make all the difference. Since we've been home I'm at a loss what to knit. I want to knit everything and nothing ....I hate this mood!
I started an entrelac bag but I do believe there is a problem in the pattern and I can't find any errata for it. So that's shoved in a bag and tossed aside for now!
I keep walking into "my room" looking and fondling but walk out without any ideas!
I think I'll opt for something really simple and quick until I can get my thoughts together. How about a dishcloth and tribble?? Sound good?? Does to me...and kitchen cotton is one thing there's plenty of!
This is Guild week so maybe being around all those knitting gals will rub off on me...one can only hope.
Off to stash dive
I hope not because if the recent temp.'s are any indication we have some time to go before spring hits! One nice thing though as cold as it's been the roads are clear. The other day we were out on one of the main roads and I thought it was snowing up ahead but it was powder from the road salt being scattered about from the traffic! The days have been sunny and clear but oh so cold! If there is even a slight breeze it goes right through to the bones! Good scarf weather for sure!
I digress, back on the subject of knitting.....there's none to write about! At least not much. I have made progress on the Berroco Sox sweater. The back is almost done and there's a couple inches on one sleeve. I do enjoy it because it's that easy mindless watch tv knitting. With working on that I don't feel like I've accomplished anything else. While away I started a sock on dpn's! Shocking , I know but I must admit I'm liking them. I picked up a really short pair of dpn's and they make all the difference. Since we've been home I'm at a loss what to knit. I want to knit everything and nothing ....I hate this mood!
I started an entrelac bag but I do believe there is a problem in the pattern and I can't find any errata for it. So that's shoved in a bag and tossed aside for now!
I keep walking into "my room" looking and fondling but walk out without any ideas!
I think I'll opt for something really simple and quick until I can get my thoughts together. How about a dishcloth and tribble?? Sound good?? Does to me...and kitchen cotton is one thing there's plenty of!
This is Guild week so maybe being around all those knitting gals will rub off on me...one can only hope.
Off to stash dive
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Skaneateles
This post is for me....a reminder of this surprise from KK! This morning he said to me "see if the dogs can stay at the kennel for a couple days". I'm thinking, huh?? why?? He says just wait and see! I call but the gal that watches Sophie and Maddie wasn't there so I left our number and asked her to call when she got in. About an hour later she called back and said it was fine to bring the dogs over! So after some frantic packing for us and the dogs we got on our way.
Two hours later we were here! I'm blogging sitting next to the fireplace in our room at the Sherwood Inn. This place is awesome. The building is 200 years old with wonderful atmosphere!
A mixture of wood burning fire and something cooking greeted us when we signed in. Heavenly!
We were able to browse through many of the rooms as many of the guests weren't checked in yet. Our room has a mammoth high bed....when I sit on the edge my feet don't even reach the floor! Of course the fireplace is the perfect touch. My only wish is that we would get snowed in and have to stay longer!
When I stand next to the spa tub it's higher than my knees...perfect for soaking with the jets on! The wall is curved with a handpainted mural. Lovely!
Perfect sunny day for the drive and after we checked in we took a walk through the village. Peeked in a couple shops and then stopped for a piece of pizza at the deli. Came back here and had coffee by the fireplace. With all the wing back chairs and comfy sofas I said to KK I could just picture all the women from knitting sitting here. The funny thing is after dinner in the lounge we came out and two woman were sitting there knitting! One said she was starting a bag and the other was doing a felted flower. I was tempted to run up to the room and grab the yarn I brought and join them! The spa tub won out tho!
I didn't have any socks otn so I brought a skein of Regia Kaffe Fasset with me. I've been wanting to try this yarn since it doesn't stripe it sort of pools....exactly what I've been looking for!
I was disappointed that the lys here went out of business. I was looking forward to checking it out. The good news is that while we were in the deli the mail person came in and she told me where there is another yarn shop and it's very close to here! The Yarn Bin....we're going to check out the area tomorrow and we'll stop there.
We drove through Auburn,NY where Carrie of Socks in The City podcast fame lives! Wouldn't it be interesting to run into her at the lys!
Better get to bed since we want to get up early!
Off to sleep
Two hours later we were here! I'm blogging sitting next to the fireplace in our room at the Sherwood Inn. This place is awesome. The building is 200 years old with wonderful atmosphere!
A mixture of wood burning fire and something cooking greeted us when we signed in. Heavenly!
We were able to browse through many of the rooms as many of the guests weren't checked in yet. Our room has a mammoth high bed....when I sit on the edge my feet don't even reach the floor! Of course the fireplace is the perfect touch. My only wish is that we would get snowed in and have to stay longer!
When I stand next to the spa tub it's higher than my knees...perfect for soaking with the jets on! The wall is curved with a handpainted mural. Lovely!
Perfect sunny day for the drive and after we checked in we took a walk through the village. Peeked in a couple shops and then stopped for a piece of pizza at the deli. Came back here and had coffee by the fireplace. With all the wing back chairs and comfy sofas I said to KK I could just picture all the women from knitting sitting here. The funny thing is after dinner in the lounge we came out and two woman were sitting there knitting! One said she was starting a bag and the other was doing a felted flower. I was tempted to run up to the room and grab the yarn I brought and join them! The spa tub won out tho!
I didn't have any socks otn so I brought a skein of Regia Kaffe Fasset with me. I've been wanting to try this yarn since it doesn't stripe it sort of pools....exactly what I've been looking for!
I was disappointed that the lys here went out of business. I was looking forward to checking it out. The good news is that while we were in the deli the mail person came in and she told me where there is another yarn shop and it's very close to here! The Yarn Bin....we're going to check out the area tomorrow and we'll stop there.
We drove through Auburn,NY where Carrie of Socks in The City podcast fame lives! Wouldn't it be interesting to run into her at the lys!
Better get to bed since we want to get up early!
Off to sleep
Tuesday, February 03, 2009
Resolutions????
I made only two resolutions for the new year and I've already broken the first one! I was going to try to blog on a regular basis. Here we are into the second month of the year and this is my first post! I'm not sure why I don't take the time to blog, I used to and I was busier then. Now I have more time at home and I seem to get less accomplished.
So much for good intentions!
My second resolution seems to be off to a good start. I'm going to try to knit at least one pair of socks a month for the year. For January I used the yarn I dyed and knitted up a pair of Fluted Bannisters. I'm quite pleased with the fit on this pair so now I'm motivated to get on to #2. I've got a pair of Tidal Waves in the works.
I did get take a photo but the camera cord isn't right here and I'm way too lazy right now to hunt it up. I'll try to get them uploaded tomorrow.
I started the February Lady Sweater based on an EZ baby pattern. I absolutely love this sweater!! I wasn't confident in my ability to knit this one so I didn't want to invest $$ into only to be disappointed so I stash dived! Amazing what you forget that you have when it's tucked away!
I don't have much in enough quantity for sweaters tho...I totally forgot a couple years ago when Cotton Ease was discontinued I swapped for 10 skeins of Blueberry. This seemed perfect for a summer cardi thinking it would probably take me until the warm weather hits before I would complete it. This sweater is done top down and I have the body completed and I'm ready for the sleeves! It would have been further long but I'm striving for perfection! Having never done button holes that was an obstacle to overcome. I went on you tube and watched a tutorial till my head ached! Unfortunately, they aren't perfect but I'm ok with them after redoing a couple times.
You have to do some figuring on your own to get a good fit..so it meant trying it on as you go. Not my favorite part running a thread through all those live stitches but it's worth it in the end.
I finished the yoke,lace gull body and the garter border and then decided I wanted it longer! Out came the border and I added two more sets of the lace then redid the border.
I want to do the sleeves in the round rather than dpn's which meant picking up a short pair of circulars. You'd think with all the needles I have I wouldn't ever need to buy anymore!
I finally got to the lys on Sunday and picked up a pair so now I'm set. While I was there I found buttons that will work, so no excuses not to finish it!
One of the lys' has a Super Bowl sale every year and since it was a nice day Sunday we took a drive out there. I can't believe I didn't see much that caught my eye! I did get Opal Harry Potter to make socks for dd. I think in the back of my mind I was thinking about Monday night Knit Nite. One of the lys's closed a few years ago and the owner is friends with the woman whose house we meet at so she agreed to come over and bring goodies. She brought two huge suitcases stuffed with yarn....all at half price!! I snagged quite a bit of Cascade 220 for $3 a skein!!! Eureka!!! I'm planning next years Xmas gifts! We asked her if she'd come back in a few weeks.
A few weeks before the holidays dd asked me if I would make her a hat. Of course I said I would but probably not for Xmas as I already had those projects lined up and the supplies on hand. She didn't care, she would buy the yarn and whenever I felt like it was fine. I totally forgot about it until I went stash diving for the sweater. So now that's otn, too. Knitting on circulars, started the decreases and ready to switch to dpn's(hate that part) We're going over for dinner this weekend so I can take it to her then. At least she'll get some use out of it this season. I'm sure our cold weather is far from over.
Kk and I spent a couple hours at B&N this afternoon( I love that place) I've been stalking the knitting section and finally they got in Socks a la Carte! I swear they are only getting one new book at a time and you have to be lucky enough to get in there at the right time. Today I wasn't even looking for it and there it was!! I got 20% off being a member so I was happy to bring it home!
I've been having some horrible headaches lately. They come on all of a sudden at any time of day. I'm wondering if the ever changing weather has anything to do with it. It shouldn't be my eyes as my glasses are only a few months old. Maybe it's all the knitting and reading. I finished the last three books of the Twilight series in less than a week. Once I started the second one I was sucked right in!
Well, I guess that's enough rambling for tonight so
Off to bed
So much for good intentions!
My second resolution seems to be off to a good start. I'm going to try to knit at least one pair of socks a month for the year. For January I used the yarn I dyed and knitted up a pair of Fluted Bannisters. I'm quite pleased with the fit on this pair so now I'm motivated to get on to #2. I've got a pair of Tidal Waves in the works.
I did get take a photo but the camera cord isn't right here and I'm way too lazy right now to hunt it up. I'll try to get them uploaded tomorrow.
I started the February Lady Sweater based on an EZ baby pattern. I absolutely love this sweater!! I wasn't confident in my ability to knit this one so I didn't want to invest $$ into only to be disappointed so I stash dived! Amazing what you forget that you have when it's tucked away!
I don't have much in enough quantity for sweaters tho...I totally forgot a couple years ago when Cotton Ease was discontinued I swapped for 10 skeins of Blueberry. This seemed perfect for a summer cardi thinking it would probably take me until the warm weather hits before I would complete it. This sweater is done top down and I have the body completed and I'm ready for the sleeves! It would have been further long but I'm striving for perfection! Having never done button holes that was an obstacle to overcome. I went on you tube and watched a tutorial till my head ached! Unfortunately, they aren't perfect but I'm ok with them after redoing a couple times.
You have to do some figuring on your own to get a good fit..so it meant trying it on as you go. Not my favorite part running a thread through all those live stitches but it's worth it in the end.
I finished the yoke,lace gull body and the garter border and then decided I wanted it longer! Out came the border and I added two more sets of the lace then redid the border.
I want to do the sleeves in the round rather than dpn's which meant picking up a short pair of circulars. You'd think with all the needles I have I wouldn't ever need to buy anymore!
I finally got to the lys on Sunday and picked up a pair so now I'm set. While I was there I found buttons that will work, so no excuses not to finish it!
One of the lys' has a Super Bowl sale every year and since it was a nice day Sunday we took a drive out there. I can't believe I didn't see much that caught my eye! I did get Opal Harry Potter to make socks for dd. I think in the back of my mind I was thinking about Monday night Knit Nite. One of the lys's closed a few years ago and the owner is friends with the woman whose house we meet at so she agreed to come over and bring goodies. She brought two huge suitcases stuffed with yarn....all at half price!! I snagged quite a bit of Cascade 220 for $3 a skein!!! Eureka!!! I'm planning next years Xmas gifts! We asked her if she'd come back in a few weeks.
A few weeks before the holidays dd asked me if I would make her a hat. Of course I said I would but probably not for Xmas as I already had those projects lined up and the supplies on hand. She didn't care, she would buy the yarn and whenever I felt like it was fine. I totally forgot about it until I went stash diving for the sweater. So now that's otn, too. Knitting on circulars, started the decreases and ready to switch to dpn's(hate that part) We're going over for dinner this weekend so I can take it to her then. At least she'll get some use out of it this season. I'm sure our cold weather is far from over.
Kk and I spent a couple hours at B&N this afternoon( I love that place) I've been stalking the knitting section and finally they got in Socks a la Carte! I swear they are only getting one new book at a time and you have to be lucky enough to get in there at the right time. Today I wasn't even looking for it and there it was!! I got 20% off being a member so I was happy to bring it home!
I've been having some horrible headaches lately. They come on all of a sudden at any time of day. I'm wondering if the ever changing weather has anything to do with it. It shouldn't be my eyes as my glasses are only a few months old. Maybe it's all the knitting and reading. I finished the last three books of the Twilight series in less than a week. Once I started the second one I was sucked right in!
Well, I guess that's enough rambling for tonight so
Off to bed
Sunday, December 07, 2008
Here I am, again!
Just looked at my blog and the last entry was from September!! How can that be?? What have I been doing? Nothing exciting comes to mind.
I did take a sock dying class through knitting guild. That was yesterday.
I don't usually like taking classes. I always feel pressured to move along quickly so not to hold everyone up but it didn't matter for this. You worked at your own pace which was good as I was the last one done! I used two methods and found that painting the dye on gave you much more control over the results. Once you do it you have more appreciation for those that do it well!
I'm sure it's like anything the more you practice the better you become. Here's a photo of the first two skeins. I think I just might invest in some more supplies and try this again! I'm really anxious to knit one of these up to see what happens!
Here's the same two skeins on a white floor so you can see the color better.
Over on Plurk we had a swap and this is the package I received. Very nice goodies! With sock yarn that's very soft and squishy! Even the pups got a treat!
Like many of you I'm knitting as fast as I can to get Xmas gifts finished on time. DD requested socks so of course they are top priority! I think d-i-l is going to get a scarf since she doesn't wear socks that much, at least not warm ones. Son's girlfriend is going to get her first pair this year ,too.
For knitting guild this month we had an ornament exchange. At the last minute I decided to do a mini sock which took me all afternoon! Why is it when you're in a hurry it seems like you're all thumbs? I even managed to snap a Bryson dpn in half! I was very annoyed and almost said the hell with it but I was 3/4 done at that point! I got a lovely wool embroidered heart...makes me think of how the wool penny rugs are done.
Most of our Xmas decorations are done. If we could just get these boxes cleaned up I'd be happy.
The outside doesn't have as much as we usually do but it's so cold now that I told KK it's fine as is.
I think later in the week we'll do some shopping. I haven't been to the stores at all yet. No black Friday shopping for me! Just looking at the parking lots is enough to keep me away!
As for knitting not much has been accomplished. I started a sweater and actually had everything but the sleeves done when I finally admitted I didn't like it......so after setting it aside for a week I frogged the whole thing! I really like the yarn so I'll have to find another pattern more suitable.
It's getting late so I'm
Off to sleep
I did take a sock dying class through knitting guild. That was yesterday.
I don't usually like taking classes. I always feel pressured to move along quickly so not to hold everyone up but it didn't matter for this. You worked at your own pace which was good as I was the last one done! I used two methods and found that painting the dye on gave you much more control over the results. Once you do it you have more appreciation for those that do it well!
I'm sure it's like anything the more you practice the better you become. Here's a photo of the first two skeins. I think I just might invest in some more supplies and try this again! I'm really anxious to knit one of these up to see what happens!
Here's the same two skeins on a white floor so you can see the color better.
Over on Plurk we had a swap and this is the package I received. Very nice goodies! With sock yarn that's very soft and squishy! Even the pups got a treat!
Like many of you I'm knitting as fast as I can to get Xmas gifts finished on time. DD requested socks so of course they are top priority! I think d-i-l is going to get a scarf since she doesn't wear socks that much, at least not warm ones. Son's girlfriend is going to get her first pair this year ,too.
For knitting guild this month we had an ornament exchange. At the last minute I decided to do a mini sock which took me all afternoon! Why is it when you're in a hurry it seems like you're all thumbs? I even managed to snap a Bryson dpn in half! I was very annoyed and almost said the hell with it but I was 3/4 done at that point! I got a lovely wool embroidered heart...makes me think of how the wool penny rugs are done.
Most of our Xmas decorations are done. If we could just get these boxes cleaned up I'd be happy.
The outside doesn't have as much as we usually do but it's so cold now that I told KK it's fine as is.
I think later in the week we'll do some shopping. I haven't been to the stores at all yet. No black Friday shopping for me! Just looking at the parking lots is enough to keep me away!
As for knitting not much has been accomplished. I started a sweater and actually had everything but the sleeves done when I finally admitted I didn't like it......so after setting it aside for a week I frogged the whole thing! I really like the yarn so I'll have to find another pattern more suitable.
It's getting late so I'm
Off to sleep
Sunday, September 28, 2008
Old Forge!
Here I am in Old Forge,NY blogging! KK and I have had this weekend get away planned to coincide with the craft fair in Remson,NY. We learned of the fair a couple years ago when we took the train ride from Utica to here. We liked Old Forge but didn't have enough time to really explore and we decided we needed to come back and spend a few days here. They told us the last weekend in Sept. is the best to see the fall foliage and they were so right! We definitely weren't disappointed! Even with the overcast skies the views are stunning! We took so many pictures but I'll have to wait until we're back home to download them.
Unfortunately, the weather didn't cooperate yesterday morning for the fair...it poured almost the whole time we were there! Thank goodness we had our umbrellas so we were fine. By early afternoon it started to clear up and it got quite warm.
A couple of booths were really nice but some we just passed by. I stopped at one that had some really nice homespun yarn but she only had one skein of each color and there wasn't enough yardage to do much with. She did have awesome thrummed mittens but I couldn't bring myself to spend $69 on them. A garter stitch sweater caught my eye and I must have the pattern! She didn't have it with her but I'm going to call during the week and she's going to send it to me. Her shop is only open a few evenings a week so I won't be able to go there. The sweater she had on display was done in Cashvero....I've never heard of it before so I'm going to have to check into it.
I did get a pair of fleece mittens that feel really soft and hopefully warm. I'm already having problems with the RS and it isn't even that cold yet!
Once we got to Old Forge and checked into our room we went off to look through the shops. Of course I had to go to the Hardware store and check out the yarn area! Nothing caught my eye this time. I was a bit disappointed. I enjoyed the shops and picked up a few things. Tomorrow before we leave I'm going to get a blanket. They have these really thick soft throws that will be perfect for winter TV watching in our family room.
This morning we got up early and when we walked out of our room there were 5 deer right outside our room. A few people were out taking pictures and they said the deer stay right near here all the time. They actually walk right up to you if you stand still. I fed a button buck and a couple of the does...the baby was more timid and stayed out of reach. When we came back into town this evening there they were right on Main St. in the front yard of one of the shops! The locals watch out for them as they casually stroll back and forth across the street!
Today we took a drive to Lake Placid. It wasn't what I expected...it didn't have the old comfy feel of Old Forge. The shops were more what you'd expect to find in most cities which didn't interest me. I did go into Adirondack Yarns which had a nice variety of yarns and friendly staff. Lots of sock yarn many I'm able to get locally but they had Peace Fleece which I've never seen so of course I couldn't leave without some. Another colorway caught my eye but no matter how much I try I can't remember whose it is and I left it in the car..but I got a skein of it too. So now I have my souvenir yarn!
We ate an early dinner and decided to come back to the room to relax. I knew KK was tired after all that driving even though he wouldn't admit it. I grabbed a coffee and had the pastry we got at the bakery earlier. KK drifted off and I've been knitting!
I wasn't sure if it was worth the bother to pack up the knitting bag but I'm glad I did. I'm working on the Modular Vest that's on the front of Creative Knitting. I started it the beginning of the week and right before we left finished the first block only to discover it was totally wrong! My miter was going in the wrong direction! How annoying! I think right at the beginning I marked the right side row on the wrong side which of course threw the whole thing off. One of the ladies I knit with said don't rip it we'll make it work but I couldn't stand the thought of having to fudge it, so out it came! I started it over making sure it was marked correctly this time. I'm almost done with the second block of the first piece and it's looking good!
Also otn's is a pair of annetrelac socks that are almost finished. They're another story! I had the first sock almost finished when I realized there wasn't enough yarn! No way was I taking out all that work. I ripped it back to the cuff and Kk and I went on a hunt for something that I could do the heel and toes in. The second shop had Koigu in a nice shaded brown that went well with the variegated colorway so a sock disaster avoided! Redid the heels in the brown and I'm just about to the toes on the first one and about half way down the foot on the second. Keeping my fingers crossed there's enough yarn to get to both toes!!
Another project otn is the wrap vest in Love of Knitting. It's going to be a slow knit with almost 200 sts. on 7's. It's worked in a seeded rib so it's not difficult just slow.
Almost forgot to mention last weekend was the Hemlock Fiberfest. Had a great day from the weather through the shopping! That's were I got the yarn for the wrap vest. It's a hand dyed shaded dark blue with a touch of deep purple. It's definitely a step out of the usual for me!
Right as we were leaving I took the plunge and purchased enough hand spun/dyed yarn for a cardigan! It's beautiful,and again I stepped out of my normal and picked what I'd call jewel tones. I'd like to complete a couple smaller projects before I tackle the cardigan.
I've looked at the Lantern Moon dpn's for socks but never bought any but when I saw them at the fest I decided to treat myself!! They are so smooth and so tiny....maybe I'll have to cast on using the new yarn I got today!
I'm probably forgetting something but it's getting late and I want to finish the second mitered block so
Off to knit
Unfortunately, the weather didn't cooperate yesterday morning for the fair...it poured almost the whole time we were there! Thank goodness we had our umbrellas so we were fine. By early afternoon it started to clear up and it got quite warm.
A couple of booths were really nice but some we just passed by. I stopped at one that had some really nice homespun yarn but she only had one skein of each color and there wasn't enough yardage to do much with. She did have awesome thrummed mittens but I couldn't bring myself to spend $69 on them. A garter stitch sweater caught my eye and I must have the pattern! She didn't have it with her but I'm going to call during the week and she's going to send it to me. Her shop is only open a few evenings a week so I won't be able to go there. The sweater she had on display was done in Cashvero....I've never heard of it before so I'm going to have to check into it.
I did get a pair of fleece mittens that feel really soft and hopefully warm. I'm already having problems with the RS and it isn't even that cold yet!
Once we got to Old Forge and checked into our room we went off to look through the shops. Of course I had to go to the Hardware store and check out the yarn area! Nothing caught my eye this time. I was a bit disappointed. I enjoyed the shops and picked up a few things. Tomorrow before we leave I'm going to get a blanket. They have these really thick soft throws that will be perfect for winter TV watching in our family room.
This morning we got up early and when we walked out of our room there were 5 deer right outside our room. A few people were out taking pictures and they said the deer stay right near here all the time. They actually walk right up to you if you stand still. I fed a button buck and a couple of the does...the baby was more timid and stayed out of reach. When we came back into town this evening there they were right on Main St. in the front yard of one of the shops! The locals watch out for them as they casually stroll back and forth across the street!
Today we took a drive to Lake Placid. It wasn't what I expected...it didn't have the old comfy feel of Old Forge. The shops were more what you'd expect to find in most cities which didn't interest me. I did go into Adirondack Yarns which had a nice variety of yarns and friendly staff. Lots of sock yarn many I'm able to get locally but they had Peace Fleece which I've never seen so of course I couldn't leave without some. Another colorway caught my eye but no matter how much I try I can't remember whose it is and I left it in the car..but I got a skein of it too. So now I have my souvenir yarn!
We ate an early dinner and decided to come back to the room to relax. I knew KK was tired after all that driving even though he wouldn't admit it. I grabbed a coffee and had the pastry we got at the bakery earlier. KK drifted off and I've been knitting!
I wasn't sure if it was worth the bother to pack up the knitting bag but I'm glad I did. I'm working on the Modular Vest that's on the front of Creative Knitting. I started it the beginning of the week and right before we left finished the first block only to discover it was totally wrong! My miter was going in the wrong direction! How annoying! I think right at the beginning I marked the right side row on the wrong side which of course threw the whole thing off. One of the ladies I knit with said don't rip it we'll make it work but I couldn't stand the thought of having to fudge it, so out it came! I started it over making sure it was marked correctly this time. I'm almost done with the second block of the first piece and it's looking good!
Also otn's is a pair of annetrelac socks that are almost finished. They're another story! I had the first sock almost finished when I realized there wasn't enough yarn! No way was I taking out all that work. I ripped it back to the cuff and Kk and I went on a hunt for something that I could do the heel and toes in. The second shop had Koigu in a nice shaded brown that went well with the variegated colorway so a sock disaster avoided! Redid the heels in the brown and I'm just about to the toes on the first one and about half way down the foot on the second. Keeping my fingers crossed there's enough yarn to get to both toes!!
Another project otn is the wrap vest in Love of Knitting. It's going to be a slow knit with almost 200 sts. on 7's. It's worked in a seeded rib so it's not difficult just slow.
Almost forgot to mention last weekend was the Hemlock Fiberfest. Had a great day from the weather through the shopping! That's were I got the yarn for the wrap vest. It's a hand dyed shaded dark blue with a touch of deep purple. It's definitely a step out of the usual for me!
Right as we were leaving I took the plunge and purchased enough hand spun/dyed yarn for a cardigan! It's beautiful,and again I stepped out of my normal and picked what I'd call jewel tones. I'd like to complete a couple smaller projects before I tackle the cardigan.
I've looked at the Lantern Moon dpn's for socks but never bought any but when I saw them at the fest I decided to treat myself!! They are so smooth and so tiny....maybe I'll have to cast on using the new yarn I got today!
I'm probably forgetting something but it's getting late and I want to finish the second mitered block so
Off to knit
Tuesday, September 02, 2008
September already???
Can it really be September already??? It doesn't seem possible that summer is over or just about anyways. Yet I guess it's true as we had my b'day get together over the weekend. That for me is the sign that another summer is done.
KK and I didn't do as much as we thought we would which I'll blame a lot on the weather. Seemed every time we had something planned it rained or looked like it was going to. We did take a day trip to Ithaca,NY which was fun. We managed to shop at The Commons, go to the brewery, hike the Buttermilk Falls gorge, and stop at a few wineries! It was a great day and we couldn't have asked for better weather. Of course an outing that includes a yarn shop is just what one could hope for!
On said trip I did snag some Happy Feet and Mt. Colors. As you can see a new bag just happened to catch my eye....no surprise there for those who know me! No trip to the wineries is complete without bringing some home for later! (DD and I managed to illiminate 2 bottles at b'day gathering)
Oh, I almost forgot that very light color is some Crystal Palace chenille. Very nice and soft! I've never see it in person and once I did I had to bring some home. Only wish I could have gotten more. There is a washcloth in Weekend Knitter that I'd like to do.(waiting for book from library)
KK and I managed the hike up the gorge and as exhausting as it was it was worth it! It was beautiful at the top...well, the top as far as we were concerned anyway!
These are some of the views as we were hiking up.Of course pictures don't do it justice.
This was amazing to see how the water had etched out this pool. On the way up there were three of these and with the sun shinning through the trees the water literally glowed emerald.
As you can see after that hike the temptation was too great not to cool off! I couldn't resist! They told us the water was 55 but it felt wonderful! Right behind me in the photo was another one of the natural pools. Teenagers were sliding down the rocks right next to the falls into the pool....that looked like so much fun! I resisted tho.......
Not to bore you with anymore nature photos here's the socks from the Sockotta my girls gifted me with from when they took this same outing!
Ater finishing these I wished that I would have knitted something with a slight pattern. I never would have picked this colorway myself but it really knitted up nicely.
I hate to say it but we've had the nicest five days in a row weather wise then I think we've had all summer. With the storms all over the country who would think it would be so nice here. Weird!
I'm looking forward to Guild starting this week. First project is some charity slippers and they are providing the pattern and yarn. We'll have until next meeting to do as many pairs as we can.
I've got a couple project ideas floating around in my mind to start. Not quite sure which I want to tackle first. Should probably think about holiday gifts but I can't think that far ahead!
Off to make dinner
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
