If Ponies could knit...

I'm here... no really!

2011-01-17T14:09:00.000-08:00

WOW it has been a long break... that's what happens I guess!

Lot of things going on... Here's a top 10 (had to limit myself somehow!)

10. Business trip to San Francisco CA

9. Discovered Zumba

8. Went on my first Cruise

7. Freelancing + Busy = Good

6. Business trip to Temecula CA

5. Still stalking Jillian Michaels and Jackie Warner and loving SparkPeople

4. New Job!
3. New apartment finished soon

2. Book was published

1. Upcoming trip to P.R.

Stay tuned... more to come

Winter Goals wrap up

2010-04-29T08:12:00.000-07:00

I'm moving again into an apartment until this apartment is ready. No, I do not enjoy moving, but unfortunately, it's inevitable. AND my camera battery decided to die, so I don't have any pictures at the moment.

Here's a pathetic wrap-up:

Winter Knitting Goals
1. Cast on for at least one baby item for second pending baby. SORT OF (I have pic to explain)
2. Complete one baby item for second pending baby.
3. Participate in KrisKnits KAL. DONE
4. Participate and complete at least one dishcloth in KrisKnits KAL for either Jan, Feb, or Mar.
5. Participate and complete the dishcloth for each month in KrisKnits KAL (Jan, Feb, Mar).

Bonus: Cast on for something new (either a lavalette, a little ruffle, or ?)
March 20th, 2010

Well, one thing is for sure, I left myself room for improvement ;) After completing 4 of 5 of my Fall goals I thought I was back on a roll but then life happened... I did make a lot of progress on one dishcloth, KrisKnits January cloth. But c'mon, ONE? I'll be posting it soon. In terms of baby gifts, I hadn't blocked the ruffled hat, so I didn't gift it. One of the two pending babies that I was planning for received a dishcloth and I still hope to knit something for the second baby. And of course, there are more babies being added to the list (one for fall, so the completed ruffled hat may be an option.)
As for the next week I'll probably be packing, sorting, and moving. I hope to get my knitting time back after I am settled.

Spring Knitting Goals
1. Participate in KrisKnits KAL.
2. Complete KrisKnits KAL Jan dishcloth. (almost done)
3. Participate and complete at least one dishcloth (besides Jan) in KrisKnits KAL.
4. Cast on for something new (either a lavalette, a little ruffle, or ?)
Bonus: If bead stash is found, start 1 beading project.
June 21st, 2010

I wasn't as ambitious with my goals this season. I'm thinking that way I can get more checked off of my list. I hope to get some more dishcloth knitting in, as well as a cast on for a new project. I'd really love to find my beads in storage! I've got a few projects that I'd really like to cast on for now, so we'll have to see what wins. Also, I'll be traveling in June for work again, and this time it's a LONG flight, so I'd like to have some good travel knitting OTN.

Cocoa Swappin' 3 Package

2010-03-15T15:17:00.000-07:00

I got a delicious package from my Cocoa pal! I opened the box and found everything wrapped up individually. After I opened all of the packages I found all of this...

Two skeins of worsted Mmmmmalabrigo

Here's a close-up of one skeinand a close-up of second skein. YUM!

Then I found a square of chocolate, a canister of drinking chocolate, an adorable tape measure with a cocoa cozy that she made for me, cute stitch markers of cups of cocoa (where did you find these? They're the perfect theme for this swap!) and 2 size 6 KnitPicks tips (1 nickel and 1 zephyr) to add to my set. My partner did a great job! I had commented on how I was always running out of size 6 needles, thanks pal! I can't wait to try the Zephyr tips!

Close-up of cocoa stitch markers

Thanks Cocoa pal! You did an awesome job spoiling me and putting my package together!

There has been

2010-03-10T14:38:00.000-08:00

A. Dishcloth KAL Knitting...

B. Which was interrupted by...

which turned into this guy, who was Top Secret knitting for Cocoa Swap 3C. And shopping for Cocoa swap 3...where this Plymouth Paca Tweed followed me home...D. A MAIL CALL! I received this box from my Cocoa Swappin' partner yesterday but discovered it this AM. I'll be opening it tonight and posting soon. Can't wait! Thanks pknitsox!
E. All of above

Correct answer is all of the above (becomes pretty believable when I include photographic evidence huh?)

Blah Buster Mouse
Pattern: City Mouse Toy by Lion Brand Yarn
Weapons: US 6 short DPN's
Yarn: Ella Rae Classic Print (Scraps of random black yarn for eyes and pink sugar and cream for whiskers)
Start/Finish: Feb 28th - March 9th 2010.
For: Downstream Cocoa Swappin' 3 partner

Notes: Fun knit! Bit fiddly with ears and tail, but then again, this is my first Amigurumi. I wanted to use stash, and I found this Ella Rae. I was thinking of a solid brown, but when I found this skein it looked like fun. Quick and fun knit! Casted on and finished the body and also started the bottom piece in one sitting. Ears and tail were a bit fiddly (most likely because this is my first amigurumi) but I liked how it all came together. I would have re-done the second ear if I listened to my compulsiveness, but I had to get him into the mail, so I talked myself out of it. Total project took me time from three evenings. I'd say total of 4 hours? Not sure. I was often multi tasking with laundry or etc.

If I was to make another one, I would add some weight to the bottom. He was sitting well as is, but I imagine after his trip with USPS or over time, he may not sit as well. I didn't have access to my bead stash or stuffing, so I had to get creative as it was, and I didn't have anything heavy to stuff the base with. I stuffed the body with fabric scraps. Thinking about it now I could have used a little rice in the base. Next time!

Modifications: I opted to keep one color for the ears. I found scrap black yarn for the eyes and some pink sugar and cream for whiskers.

Cocoa Swappin' 3 Hostess Package

2010-03-07T06:46:00.000-08:00

Because Cocoa Swappin' 3 was so small this time around, our hostess decided to send a gift to each person. She's so sweet! Kate sent me two books: Sew On and Knitprovisation
as well as some Noro Silk Garden Sock yarn.

Thanks Kate, that was so very generous of you! I love the package! She must have peeked around my blog to see my interest in knitting my first
pair of socks as well as getting into sewing. I can't wait to get all set up to sew
once I move! These books look great for a beginner like me!
Thanks for being such a great hostess Kate!

Stay tuned... I may have knitting evidence...

Cocoa Swap 3 Questionnaire

2010-02-11T08:02:00.000-08:00

While I was away I had not seen that the questionnaire was posted (didn't realize that it has been up since last time). Sorry to keep my partner waiting, I just got back today.

The Yarn…

1. Do you knit, crochet, or do both? Knit only. May learn crochet one of these days...

2. What is your favorite one-skein project? What item do you find you knit the most of? Amanda Hat. I have knit a shawl, hats, mittens, scarves and dishcloths. I hope to make more hats and mittens and knit more lace.

3. Do you like using a particular type of needle or hook? (wood, metal, straight, circular) Is there something you’ve been wanting to try, or a particular size you always seem to be short on? I think each type has it's place. I have a fair amount of bamboo straights in my collection and I have some aluminum and plastic circulars. I am preferring circular over straight these days when I have the option. (Knitpicks options and random others) I always run out of size 6 Knitpicks Options needles.

4. What’s on your needles\hook right now? What’s your oldest UFO (unfinished object)? I'm currently working on the January cloth from KrisKnits Knitalong. One UFO from last year is a February Lady Sweater. But by far my oldest UFO is Clogs (OCS... one clog syndrome.)

5. What are your favorite types of yarns? Are you allergic to any yarns, or just hate working with something? Anything type/brand of yarn you’ve been dying to try? I really like working with Malabrigo, mohair and other yarns. I like soft yarn and I like wooly yarn. It depends what I'm making. I do not like 100% acrylic yarn, but I have no problem with a mixture of acrylic. I do not like fun fur or eyelash yarn. I'm always open to trying someone else's favorite.

7. What are your favorite colors? Brights? Pastels? More muted colors? Variegated? Are there that make you want to stab yourself in the eye with your needles? I love yellow and blue. I'm also a pink fan. I have something against purple. I still end up wearing it a lot and sometimes I find myself persuaded to use it or buy clothes that are purple.

8. What is your favorite knit accessory, your fancy needles? stitch markers? your yarn cutter? What do you have TOO many of? What do you wish you had? I love stitch markers. I'm always open to try someone's favorite knit accessory.

The Chocolate

1. Do you prefer boxed/packets, or something homemade? Either. I'm open to try someone else's favorite.

2. Marshmallows or whipped cream? I don't typically have either on my hot chocolate. Marshmallow's are a nice addition, whipped cream is yummy for a special occasion.

3. Do you use any ‘add ins’? Typically no. Since the first time I logged into the swaps' site, and saw the hot cocoa with chocolate chips and whipped cream, I've been considering it.

4. Are you a year round cocoa drinker or just in the winter months? More in the winter time.

5. Do you like flavored cocoas or are you just a ’straight chocolate’ kind of person? Depends on my mood. Typically a straight chocolate person. Can be tempted if it involved mint or coffee Hot Chocolate. (See #6)

6. Do you enjoy cocoa from restaurants or shops like Starbucks? What are some of your favorites? Not technically cocoa, but for a treat I love a Cafe Mocha at Starbucks. Chocolate meets coffee, can't beat that! I also drink "Natural Mint Cocoa" from Trader Joe's.

7. You’ve just made the perfect cup of cocoa - is it in a thick mug, or a thinner cup? Where would you sit to drink it? A thick mug with my current WIP and latest Netflicks.

8. You’re enjoying that perfect cup, what treats will you enjoy with it? Are they sweet or salty? Crunchy? Soft and flaky? Some chocolate or cookies.

It’s all YOU!

1. Do you have other hobbies like spinning or scrapbooking? I do not spin. I love making stitch markers. I have also started doing some small sewing projects. I don't mind sewing by hand but now that I have a little machine (thanks SP13 spoiler!!!) I'll imagine I will be sewing more. I have a lot of ideas for tote bags, needle organizers, etc.

3. What is your favorite part of Winter? SNOW!

4. What sort of scents do you enjoy? Any difference in what you like for your house versus what you like for your body? I LOVE lavender. It's sooo relaxing. I also love the smell of fresh roses. I also like "clean" scents or vanilla for the home.

5. Are you allergic to anything? No allergies. Aversion: I don't like ultra dark chocolate.

6. Are you on Ravelry? What’s your ID? Ponyknit

7. How would you spend an ideal winter afternoon/day? Out to the barn for a ride, and back home to snuggle up with Daizzy and a cup of hot cocoa. We'd watch a movie and knit ;)

8. What’s your favorite animal? Tie, Horses and dogs.

Ruffles...

2010-01-28T09:33:00.000-08:00

If you haven't noticed, I'm in love with ruffles these days. After starting this post I realized I previously had a post with almost the same title but I figured it'd emphasize my love these days. I also thought that if I knit more than one of these, I know exactly what the post title will be... hahah SO not creative, ah well.

After casting on over 200 stitches for the ruffled baby girl hat I kept picking up to recount my stitches, and then put it back down. After getting some sleep I could finally get going. Once I actually got knitting, this one flew off of the needles!

(Sorry for the unblocked dark photo. I hope to block it soon and I'll post a better pic then.)

Now that I've spent 2 knitting and chatting visits with Moriah last week I'm thinking about knitting my first pair of socks sometime soon. I may have to incorporate it into my Winter Goals. Which reminds me, I'm a bit behind with my wrap-up.

Fall Knitting Goals Wrap-Up
1. Decide what to do for the two babies that I want to knit for. Not sure how big of a project I want to do now that there's 2 to knit for, and considering how long one project has been sitting on my knitting goals. Finish booties? (booties or garter stitch baby kimono) Start something new? Partly decided, knit one item to start and most likely make another ruffled baby hat.
2. Make progress on at least one baby item. Done
3. Complete at least 1 baby item. Done
4. Work on Bijouterie. Haven't found bead stash yet :(
5. Make final decision on next lace project. Still want to knit both this and this, but the lavalette has won this time (another link). I want to knit it all! (Use stashed Malabrigo Silky Merino Lace)

Deadline: January 1st 2010

Wow, I hit 4 of 5 goals this season! Awesome! And the only reason I didn't work on some beading (#4) was that I can't find my bead stash. I still have one more place to look or I'll have to wait until I empty the storage unit and officially move.

Winter Knitting Goals
1. Cast on for at least one baby item for second pending baby.
2. Complete one baby item for second pending baby.
3. Participate in KrisKnits KAL.
4. Participate and complete at least one dishcloth in KrisKnits KAL for either Jan, Feb, or Mar.
5. Participate and complete the dishcloth for each month in KrisKnits KAL (Jan, Feb, Mar).

Bonus: Cast on for something new (either a lavalette, a little ruffle, or ?)
March 20th, 2010

I went for cumulative goals again because I really think that breaking them up to smaller goals helps me to get them done. Not that finding my knitting mojo hasn't either ;)

Swap Update:
Hot Cocoa Swappin' 3 Registration closed Jan 26th (sorry I took soo long to post). I had a blast last time!

Things are a bit crazy here these days as I'm trying to get a lot of stuff done before I head off for a business trip to Miami next week, looking forward to some sun and travel knitting!

Source

Dishcloth KAL

2010-01-08T10:10:00.002-08:00

held by KrisKnits
Check it out....

I got a message from HSailorMoon on Rav (I'm a bit behind in my GoogleReader these days) and really appreciated the heads up! Looks like a ton of fun. Not that I haven't had something OTN for when I do have a few minutes to knit... but I think this will help me to pick up the needles more regularly. AND who can turn down dishcloth knitting OR KrisKnits pattern's?

For this KAL a portion of each month's pattern will be revealed in blog posts through out the month. I'm going to aim for doing this month's and take it from there, but I think participating each month isn't too much of a commitment time-wise for me. I'll see how January goes.

Anyone else interested?

Have a great weekend! I'll be back soon with an update on my Fall Knitting Goals as well as hopefully a WIP update on the Ruffled baby girl's hat and the beginning of January's dishcloth!

Ruffles

2009-12-21T13:16:00.000-08:00

I casted on for the Ruffled Baby Girl Hat in some Peruvia that I had in my stash.
I loved what I had seen of this pattern in cotton (peaches 'n cream) but the babies that I needed to knit for were going to be born when it was still quite cold out in New England and the hat is sized for a newborn. SO, I decided to use a warmer yarn instead and knit the size that the pattern was written for so that the babies could wear the hat sooner rather than later. If I really like the pattern maybe I'll make one for another baby in a lighter weight at some point. The pattern was too cute to pass up.

While I was out shopping the other day I saw a ruffled scarf. That sent me to Ravelry looking for patterns. The scarf was something like this, or this (chunky version). I also came across this
gathered version which was a really neat spin on a ruffled scarf.

Then I really loved and settled on: A Little Ruffle (pattern available on the blog Sadie and Oliver).

I couldn't pass this one up, neither could a lot of other knitters:

Stay tuned once I catch up on my to-do list and decide what to make this out of, and when!

In the meantime, Daizzy wanted to say HI to the blog and her friends.

She loved that Mom had a snow day on Sunday and didn't have to teach any riding lessons, so she got to hang out in Grandpa's recliner while he was out plowing snow.

Her sister Plum was quite happy about Daizzy being in the recliner too, that meant the couch was open for lounging!

Daizzy also had time to have fun with one of her favorite squeaky toys.

Dusty watched the girls to make sure that they didn't do anything that he wouldn't do ;)Daizzy also had her first experience with this nail trimmer. It went really well. She seemed to like having her nails manicured instead of just clipped.
This was taken after she had all of her nails done lightly.
From this pic I'd say PediPaws has got Daizzy's approval!

Unique Basketweave Dishcloth

2009-12-08T14:17:00.000-08:00

During the week of Thanksgiving my itching fingers found something to do...

This pattern was a fast and fun knit. Thanks Anna of Knitting Up a Storm for sharing her great pattern. I casted on in the afternoon on a long car ride and was done after dinner. I think it was just what I needed to get my knitting mojo going. I casted on for this afterward!

One cute baby gift done and off the needles and another baby item OTN. Two checks off of my Fall Knitting goals!

Fall Knitting Goals
1. Decide what to do for the two babies that I want to knit for. Not sure how big of a project I want to do now that there's 2 to knit for, and considering how long one project has been sitting on my knitting goals. Finish booties? (booties or garter stitch baby kimono) Start something new? Partly decided, knit one item to start.
2. Make progress on at least one baby item. Done
3. Complete at least 1 baby item. Done
4. Work on Bijouterie.
5. Make final decision on next lace project. Still teetering between this, this, or this. I want to knit it all! (Use stash)

Deadline: January 1st 2010

I also was feeling the need to bead (goal #4). After searching I realized that I didn't know where my bead stash went during my move in March. I have one more place to check, or otherwise it's waiting for me in storage when I move into the apartment. ::crosses fingers:: I really liked the pearls I picked out for this project and I'd like to make them soon.

Look at what I found when I uploaded pics off of my camera, it's my Son of Dish Rag Tag cloth! (Funny how they are both a derivative of basketweave)

Over The Top Blog Award

2009-11-20T14:39:00.000-08:00

Thanks Danica! I received this award from Danica's Daily quite a while ago (yikes!) and now I'm finally have a bit of time to post my responses... (see I told you I'd post it eventually!)

In order to accept this award I have to answer the following questions with only 1 word answers…

1. Where is your cell phone? Near
2.Your hair? Blonde/Brown (ha... cheating already)
3. Your mother? Brunette
4. Your father? Rocks
5. Your favorite food? Cheese
6. Your dream last night? forgot
7. Your favorite drink? Frappuccino
8. Your dream/goal? successful
9. What room are you in? Office
10. Your hobby? Riding
11. Your fear? Forgetting
12. Where do you want to be in 6 years? Healthy
13. Where were you last night? Highfields
14. Something you aren’t? Shy
15. Muffins? YUM
16. Wish list item?
17. Where did you grow up? Massachusetts
18. Last thing you did? Data (C'mon... since when does something in the lab have one word?)
19. What are you wearing? Jeans (My own prompted casual friday ;))
20. Your TV? off
21. Your pets? Daizzy (Don't forget Dee and Dusty!)
22. Your friends? Rock
23. Your life? Busy
24. Your mood? T.G.I.F
25. Missing someone? Yes
26. Vehicle? Element
27. Something you’re not wearing? Glasses
28. Your favorite store? TJs (hahha Danica I made it one too!)
29. Your favorite color? Yellow
30. When was the last time you laughed? Today
31. Last time you cried? ???
32. Your best friend? KMEAD (HA.... had to combine everyone's name in one, can't put one)
33. One place that I go over and over? Barn
34. One person who emails me regularly? Enid
35. Favorite place to eat? Home

Alright, now I need to pass this torch on to 6 bloggers. It’s so hard to narrow this down to 6. If you don't have time to post it, not worries at all. Just know I was thinking about you!

1. Moriah at Tales from a Knitting Med Student

2. Megan at Tangled Up in Knots

3. Nichole at Lapdog Creations

4. Bekka

5. Susan at No Knit Sherlock!

6. Erica at Itzy's Kitchen

T.G.I.F everyone! Have a great weekend!

Overdue catch up

2009-11-09T07:45:00.000-08:00

WOW I've been crazy busy... as seen by my longer than a month absence! I must admit to my lack thereof of knitting for the greater part of my absence, but I am feeling that familiar itch to knit these days, so hopefully I'll be back with some progress shots soon. I'm beginning to think I'm more of a cold weather knitter. Also, the swarm of swaps have ended and now I'm itching to sign up for something new.

Anyway... I do have one FO. I participated in dish rag tag again this year and here is mine.Oh right... you wanted to see the dish cloth. Well I managed to knit it and forgot to take a pic of the FO. (There's a slight chance the pic is in my camera, but not uploaded. I'll have to check. FOUND IT) For now, you'll have to use your imagination a bit. Here's the package I received. I followed the same pattern and used the Peaches 'N Cream in the pic above and below.
Nicole sent me her completed cloth along with a bunch of goodies! I got a card, pixie sticks, swedish fish, coffee, peaches and cream (to knit my leg of the race) and a skein of Antuco. Thanks Nicole!

Our team finished 12 out of 20 on 10/13/09. Great job U Can't Knit Just One! We were against some steep competition! As always, I had a great time. Thanks for running another year of this fun competition Emily! It wouldn't be summer/fall without it!

An update on my Knitting Goals (also late... you see a trend?)

Tardy Summer Knitting Goals
1. At least one FO. (DONE)
2. Cast on for baby sweater. (Wound the yarn... that's progress right?)
3. Complete one baby item. (booties or garter stitch baby kimono)
4. Work on Bijouterie.
5. Make final decision on next lace project. Lately I'm teetering between this, this, or this. I want to knit it all!

Deadline: September 22nd

Well, I did complete #1. I wound yarn for #2, but didn't cast on. I made some progress on the booties, but not enough to warrant an update pic. I didn't get anywhere near my beads so I didn't do #4, but I did put some thought into #5. Still no decision. SO I only can check off #1 from the list. Whew... quite unproductive fall in terms of my knitting goals huh? Now that I got that out of the way, I can set my next goals!

Fall Knitting Goals
1. Decide what to do for the two babies that I want to knit for. Not sure how big of a project I want to do now that there's 2 to knit for, and considering how long one project has been sitting on my knitting goals. Finish booties? (booties or garter stitch baby kimono) Start something new?
2. Make progress on at least one baby item.
3. Complete at least 1 baby item.
4. Work on Bijouterie.
5. Make final decision on next lace project. Still teetering between this, this, or this. I want to knit it all! (Use stash)

Deadline: January 1st 2010
(First day of winter is Dec. 21st. Because I'm posting this over a month late, I figured I'd push it up)

I gave myself mini-goals this time. I broke down "bigger" goals into smaller ones. I started doing that with SparkPeople several months ago. I had set a weight loss goal, and made mini-goals for my progress along the way. It worked really well with that, I've now lost over 25 lbs., so let's see if it works with my knitting goals ;) I've not only been itching to knit, but I've been wanting to bead as well. Now I need to just find the time. Stay tuned...

Lots to catch up on. I've been tagged!!! That will be up soon.

Final SP14 Package!

2009-09-21T14:37:00.000-07:00

I was totally spoiled with my SP14 reveal package. Setembrina sent me: bath salts that she made herself, a skein of knitpicks yarn that she dyed, stitch markers and earrings that she also made for me which were inside a cute tin along with a measuring tape and needle tips, a bath mitt and sponge, bath fizzies, wool shampoo, a skein of Plymouth worsted Jeannee, a set of handmade coasters (made by her?) and some STASH tea. Everything was inside a cute blue tote bag.

Here's a close-up of the Knitpick's yarn and coasters.
She made such a beautiful combo of my favorite colors, yellow pink and blue!

Closer look at the earrings, stitch markers, measuring tape and needle tips.
I love the eyes on the yellow beads.

Thanks Setembrina! I was officially spoiled rotten!

I've been tagged in DRT! Post coming soon...

Updates

2009-09-15T11:56:00.000-07:00

Tardy Summer Goals update: I only have till Sept. 22nd. If the deadline was today, things wouldn't be looking so good. Let's see how much I can get done in the next week. I've knit a bit, but no FO so far.

Dish Rag Tag Update: It's almost my turn!!! I'm on deck. I'd better get my needles ready!

SP14 Update: It's coming to a close soon, wow how time flies! I'm starting to get things together for my downstream as it ends Sept. 30th.

Everyone seen the new Knitty? I am loving Colonnade. It may be the next project that can get me out of this lack-of-knitting-mojo-funk. How cute is Zozo? Kindly sheep is a really neat idea, and super cute.

Twist Contest

2009-09-08T14:59:00.000-07:00

Hurry, it's only till tomorrow! Buy a pattern and get entered to win. Now if I could only decide which pattern to buy...

Kenny Weekend 2009

2009-09-01T14:37:00.000-07:00

Ah yes, it's that time of year again. Well at least it was back in August. Suddenly we're into September and I haven't had time to post the evidence of Kenny Weekend, until now.

This year Kenny was playing in CT on a Thursday, before his yearly stop at Gillette Stadium for Kenny's Country Fest on a Saturday. Incidentally it was my friend's birthday on the following Sunday. So, when we bought Country Fest tickets back in December (yes they go on sale 8 months ahead and sell out in minutes every year) we coined the ordeal to be "Kenny Weekend."
When we arrived at the concert in CT, we couldn't believe how close our seats were. Here's a photo depiction of just how close we were...

Lady Antebellum Opened

Yes we were THAT close!Whoa!

Can you see two Kenny's?

Shot of the screen

Kenny and the Band

Here are some shots from Gillette. This is the first year we were not on the floor, and I really didn't mind. At first we thought it would feel much father back, but it wasn't bad. Being up in the seats had a few benefits, one being that they had some actual air flow (with 56,000 people attending and it was a hot august day, it was much breezier than the floor seats), and two being that the chairs are fixed, so no one was squishing into our row.

Lady Antebellum Montgomery GentrySugarlandKENNY!!!Kenny always has some Sox or Pat's visitors... this year it was Bruschi. Little did we know at that time that he'd be retiring this season. His skills, enthusiasm and energy on and off of the field will be missed! (Wes Welker was there too, but I didn't get any good shots of him)

Next: Some actual knitting content! Last week I sneaked in some time on my booties. Hopefully my increase in knitting time will continue. I found a mistake early on so I ripped back to zero and started over. I'm now ahead of where I was before the rip!

It's that time of year again... sharpen your needles...

2009-08-25T11:27:00.000-07:00

It isn't summer until I've participated in Yarn Miracle's Dish rag tag . I have participated in it every year since it's very beginning. The race will begin on Friday.
Go team U Can't Knit Just 1!!!
Coming Next: Kenny Pic's (I haven't forgotten, just haven't had time to sort through all 83 pics!)

Three surprise packages from my SP14 spoiler!

2009-08-18T11:17:00.000-07:00

All books off of my amazon wish list! How awesome!
After getting these three packages I noticed just how eclectic my interests are. I go from horse training to fast and healthy cooking to dog agility.

Thanks for the awesome picks off of my wish list SP14 spoiler!!!

Next: This years Kenny stalking via images ;)

Mount Desert Island Maine

2009-08-11T12:55:00.000-07:00

I went to a conference at MDIBL last week. It's so beautiful up there! I'd like to go back just to play tourist next time in Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park! When I wasn't in the conference I had a little time to get to the ocean and take these pics. One morning I also took a nice long walk (sans camera, I know, bad blogger yadda yadda). Here's a few shots of the view at MDIBL. I can't imagine how scientists there actually get any work done. Next time I'll have to take a pic of the labs. They're literally on the waterfront.

Here's a shot of me on on the dock.

I thought the coastline was beautiful.

The clouds were so neat in this shot!Coming Up Next: A surprise SP14 package!!!
Also, after this weekend I'll have a few Kenny sightings to post. It's that time of year again, YAY for Kenny weekend!!!

Saucy Spring Swap Package

2009-08-04T08:14:00.000-07:00

This is the first time I have participated in this swap on Ravelry and it was a ton of fun! I can't wait to try all of the sauces!

In my loaded box I got:
2 skeins of Tofutsies, 4 hot sauces (one being Siracha, my current favorite), 3 mustards, 2 jars of peppers (Jalapenos are my favorite add in's), an aromatherapy spa kit, a cute cherry paperclip, aromatic tea, and a package of spicy sour prunes.

Here's a close-up of the saucesHere's a close-up of all of the other goodies!

What an awesome package! I can't wait to get trying everything! I haven't tried any of the sauces that I received, besides the Siracha which I know that I love already, so it will be fun! I also haven't worked with Tofutsies yet! Thanks for such a great package sunmoon!

DishRag Tag, this year it's called Son of Dishrag Tag, sign-ups are going on NOW! I realized today that I hadn't signed up yet, and I saw that the sign-ups were over half full yesterday! If your interested, run over and sign up now! It's a TON of fun. I participated in it's first time through two years ago, and I was a captain last year. It's a blast.

Love me, Ortiz Me?

2009-08-01T13:03:00.000-07:00

I came upon this shirt and it fit today's post PERFECTLY...

For all of you that are Sox fans... here's some pic's from last Saturday's game v.s. the Orioles. We won, 7-2. I had awesome seats. A friend of mine got home plate pavilion seats from work and I was lucky enough to get invited. We sat in bar stools in front of a little table, and had a waiter. It was awesome! You can't complain when your waiter is bringing you your beer and fenway frank to your table! We also loved that we could get up and cheer on Papi during his homer without shuffling around everything in our laps! It was awesome. Great game!!! Nothing like being at Fenway...

Lester pitched

Final was actually 7-2... I just loved this scoreboard shot

Obligatory Lowell shot...

After the game...

First SP14 Package

2009-07-31T12:24:00.000-07:00

My secret pal sent me a beautiful bag with three skeins of KnitPicks Essential Solid, a journal that matches the fabric perfectly, and a copy of "The Girls Book. How to be the best at everything." I love the pattern of the fabric! The yarn looks soo yummy, and also perfectly matches the bag and journal! I had seen the book several times, and I was always interested to peek around in it. Now I can ;) Thanks Secret Pal for such a great package!
My pictures aren't the best. Neither is the weather (a.k.a chronic rain) in New England for the past 2 months. Ah well. I worked with what teeny tiny amount of daylight I had.

Up Next: Saucy Swap Package. I still need to take pics. After seeing how these came out, I wanted to wait to take pics. I will post them soon.
Also, I went to a Sox game last Saturday. Stay tuned for pics.

Spring Knitting Goal Wrap-Up and New Tardy Summer Goals

2009-07-30T08:45:00.000-07:00

I did a pretty good job with my winter goals, getting 2 of the 4 goals completed. When I decided on my spring goals I knew that summer was coming (or whatever we call the weather in New England right now) along with a lot of freelance teaching and coaching, moving, and golf, so I tried to keep my goals reasonable. I didn't account for losing my knitting mojo as well.

Spring Knitting Goals
1. Dust off and make progress on Feb. Lady Sweater.
2. Work on Bijouterie.
3. Plan baby items, using stash or pick up materials needed. (2 friends due Aug/Sept.) Currently thinking at least one pair of booties. DONE
4. Make progress on baby items (especially if sweater knitting is getting too hot!) DONE
5. Decide on next lace project ;) (work on #4 prior to casting on!)

Deadline: June 21

I've planned baby items. I casted on the booties with some Cashmerino from my stash. I casted on and made some progress on booties, but my progress was pretty pathetic. I picked up some Louet Gems (fingering wt.) at my LYS in order to make a garter stitch baby kimono. I have completed number 3 and 4 out of 5. I keep looking at lace on blogs and Rav, and wanting to knit lace. Because I want to get some baby knitting done first, and knowing what happens once I cast on any lace, I haven't decided on what I'd like to knit next, just yet. I'll make that one of my goals for the summer. (P.S. I already would have tried to knit some lace for the baby, if it was a girl. Instead, as you can tell by the booties and yarn for the kimono, she's expecting a boy.) Here's a look at the Louet Gems. I thought I'd go with washable for this mom-to-be.

Seeing that I'm posting this wrap up MORE than a month late! (WHOA! I kept waiting to have some knitting to show... and you see what happens?) Now that I'm posting these so late, I'll call them my Tardy Summer Knitting Goals. I feel that I'm on the way to finding my knitting mojo. I followed some advice that I was given in the comments when I posted the problem. I went to my LYS and I will be casting on for something new soon. :)

Tardy Summer Knitting Goals
1. At least one FO.
2. Cast on for baby sweater.
3. Complete one baby item. (booties or garter stitch baby kimono)
4. Work on Bijouterie.
5. Make final decision on next lace project. Lately I'm teetering between this, this, or this. I want to knit it all!

Deadline: September 22nd

Up Next: A SP14 package and a Saucy swap package! (I got the packages late last night and haven't taken pics yet.)
Contest held by the blog STILL coming...

Caffeine Addicts Summer Swap Final Installment

2009-07-23T11:06:00.000-07:00

The rest of my package arrived!

First I received a handpainted skein from iWunder. It is soo soft and it is my favorite colors! Then I received this package from Greece! I had received a note in my first package saying the rest of my package was coming from a sunny place, being a secret swap I guess she didn't want to tip me off by saying how far away she really was! Once I opened the wrapping I saw just how full the package was!I found all kinds of goodies inside! A bag of Christina's special blend of coffee to try, some"extra blend" from her favorite coffee shop, two types of candies made with Mastic (a turkish delight that is from a tree that grows in Chios), two hanks and 1 skein of kangaroo (cotton?), a tea blend called "Maya" which has spices and chocolate, and also a postcard from the island of Kittira (where she vacationed last week). I couldn't avoid taking one more shot with the yarn that I had received earlier.
All of the yarn looked so pretty together, don't you think? The yarn is beautiful, I love the colors! I can't wait to try the coffee, tea and treats! I enjoyed learning a bit about greece and Mastic as well. (Linked above in case anyone is as curious as I was!)

Thanks for such a great package Christina! (Karmologyclinic on Rav)

Caffeine Addicts Summer Swap First Installment

2009-07-19T14:12:00.000-07:00

I received this in the mail ahead of time from my secret partner from iWunder on ETSY. It's even more yummy in person! ;) Thanks Secret Pal!

Swap Update: Swaps are in full speed!
SP14 has begun!
My Caffeine Addicts Summer Swap (Ravelry) downstream partner should be receiving her package this week.
My Saucy Swap (Ravelry) downstream partner should also be receiving her package this week.

Breakfast time at the barn...

2009-07-12T11:00:00.000-07:00

Dee just thought she'd drop by the blog...It was breakfast time, so she had trouble saying "cheese" with her mouth full, but I think she did a good job. (I love her ears in this shot, she's thinking pretty hard here.)
Daizzy was also eating her breakfast and was quite sleepy. She decided to give me a profile shot.
Pooh (my mom's horse) said his stomach woke him up, where's my grain already? (He's ALWAYS hungry)
Here's a look at Dee (and Pooh's) new home. It's still under construction, as you can see, but the horses don't mind. It's great to have Dee at home!
Once the upstairs is finished, I'll be moving in to the loft apartment.

I'm on vacation this week so hopefully there will be a bit more time for blogging, knitting, and maybe even beading, along with riding, golfing and hanging out with my niece, nephews, brother and sister in law! Stay tuned for a contest as well!

SP14 Questionnaire

2009-07-06T12:32:00.001-07:00

Bit of housekeeping things first.
Life has impeded with my knitting and blogging lately. Stay tuned for an upcoming contest (super late blogoversary contest), a wrap-up of my Spring Knitting Goal's with new Summer Knitting Goals, and a Spark update!

It's that time again... let the swaps begin!
SP14 Questionnaire

1. What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with? What fibers do you absolutely *not* like? I would have to say my love right now is Malabrigo, but I also really enjoy mohair and other yarns. I like soft yarn and I like wooly yarn. It depends what I'm making. I do not like 100% acrylic yarn, but I have no problem with a mixture of acrylic. I do not like fun fur or eyelash yarn. I'm always open to trying someone else's favorite.

2. What do you use to store your needles/hooks in? Knitpicks Options in their own binder/pockets. Straight needles in a roll. (Gifted from Christmas swap)

3. How long have you been knitting & how did you learn? Would you consider your skill level to be beginner, intermediate or advanced? I have been knitting for about 3 1/2 years. I guess I am somewhere in intermediate. I have done some work with increases/decreases, K2TOG, some cables, and YO's. I always like when I pick a new pattern and it has a few new skills for me to pick up along the way. Thinking about socks sometime soon. My first sweater is currently languishing OTN.

4. Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list? Yes, amazon. (see sidebar)

5. What's your favorite scent? I LOVE lavender. It's sooo relaxing. I also love the smell of fresh roses. I also like "clean" scents.

6. Do you have a sweet tooth? Favorite candy? Yes. I like most sweets. Including snickers, dove chocolate, swedish fish, gummi bears etc. I dislike really dark chocolate (over 70%)

7. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do? Do you spin? I do not spin. I love making stitch markers. I have also started doing some small sewing projects. I don't mind sewing by hand but now that I have a machine (thanks SP13 spoiler!) I think I'll be doing a lot more... Once I unpack it out of storage. (See #10) I have a lot of ideas. (tote bags, needle organizers, etc.)

8. What kind of music do you like? Can your computer/stereo play MP3s? (if your buddy wants to make you a CD) I have a love for most music. I love country, top 20, jazz (esp. miles davis), most everything except really heavy metal. I can listen to MP3's in my car.

9. What's your favorite color(s)? Any colors you just can't stand? I love yellow and blue. I also really like pink. I have something against purple. I still end up wearing it a lot and sometimes I find myself persuaded to use it or buy clothes that are purple.

10. What is your family situation? Do you have any pets? I am currently living in an apartment (see a previous SP11 response). I have a percheron/thoroughbred horse named Dee. Sometime during this swap I hope to move into a new apartment above the barn where my horse is currently living. (Spoiler for SP14: There will not be any change in mailing address. I've already started receiving mail at the new apartment because my horse is there already!) I will then live with my own horse, my parents horse, and some boarders as well. I currently live with my smooth Collie Daizzy, Daizzy's sister (a rough collie), and my parents cat Dusty. Once I've moved into the new apartment I'll just be living with Daizzy and the horses. The cat, Dusty, is debatable. I haven't decided what he'd think about becoming a barn cat just yet.

11. Do you wear scarves, hats, mittens or ponchos? I wear scarves and mittens ALL the time in winter. I wear baseball hats a lot and wool hats or headbands in the winter. I don't have a poncho, but I have considered making myself one.

12. What is/are your favorite item/s to knit? I really enjoyed knitting an amanda hat. I have enjoyed making mittens, washcloths, and scarves so far... Thinking about socks sometime soon. I have a few bags on my to-do list. I don't have too many completed projects so I don't feel like I have a "favorite" yet. So far I'm enjoying working on my first sweater. (FLS) I made my first shawl (a forest canopy) and got bit by the lace bug pretty badly as well.

13. What are you knitting right now? Since May, my knitting mojo has gone for a field trip. I hope it comes home soon! I haven't made a ton of progress lately on some baby booties. I'd like to cast on for another lace project but think that if I do that, the baby booties will never get finished. We'll see what happens next, if I give into my lace urges or if I get the baby booties done first. I'm also considering switching gears into a baby cardigan instead. I also have a February Lady Sweater languishing on the needles until the weather is cooler.

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

15. Do you prefer straight or circular needles? Bamboo, aluminum, plastic? I think each type has it's place. I have a fair amount of bamboo straights in my collection and lately I have been adding both aluminum and plastic circulars to my collection. I am preferring circular over straight these days when I have the option. (Knitpicks options and random others)

16. Do you own a yarn winder and/or swift? I have a winder (YAY for lovely center pull balls) Naturally, I've put a swift on my want list.

17. How old is your oldest UFO? Clogs (OCS... one clog syndrome)

18. What is your favorite holiday? What winter holiday do you observe? It would have to be Christmas. I love finding/making just the right gift for someone.

19. Is there anything that you collect? Yes, I have a fair amount of books ranging from horseback riding/instruction to cooking/baking to animal rights to various "fun" novels and of course Knitting books. I collect Miles Davis books and music. (I became obsessed with him and Jazz when I played flute and trumpet and sang during high school.) I also collect the little shell "animals" that touristy shops sell everywhere. I have probably 6 different animals from my travels. It's sort of an "incidental" collection, I can't stop myself from buying them when I see new animals. I also have a collection of Painted Ponies.

20. Any books, yarns, needles or patterns out there you are dying to get your hands on? What knitting magazine subscriptions do you have? Thanks to Ravelry, my books are mostly posted there. I think there are several missing because they haven't been posted on Rav yet. I am trying to decide which magazine to get. I keep swapping between Knit.1 and Knitscene. As far as patterns that I would like, they are in my sidebar (along with the free patterns that I want to knit.) I noted if I have them or need them.

21. Are there any new techniques you'd like to learn? Off the top of my head, learning long tail cast on's. Would like to try toe up socks, maybe try two at a time socks now that I have the book.

22. Are you a sock knitter? What are your foot measurements? Not yet, (see #21). In general I am a size 8. Will post measurements soon. (I know I said I'd do it earlier, twice actually. I will, promise!)

23. When is your birthday? June 3rd.

24. Are you on Ravelry? If so, what's your ID? ponyknit

I got an Award, and Happy Belated Birthday to me!

2009-06-16T13:20:00.000-07:00

from Moriah! RULES you must resend this to 5 bloggers and you must tell 5 things about your crafts you like the most...what inspires you to make home made gifts..

What inspires me:
1. I love making the perfect gift for someone, and even better, I love seeing them enjoy it!
2. Ravelry. I can't log in without finding something new that I want to make RIGHT now for someone!
3. I agree with Moriah, I love the result of two needles and yarn. Such beautiful things can result!
4. I always love the rush of getting something new OTN right when I finish something.
5. Knitting blogs. Reading about other creative gifts and hearing about another knitters generosity is very inspiring.

And now, to nominate others: (I added how they inspire me)

1. Ever green knits with her great knits and patterns, and outdoor photography!
2. Alison with everything she does... her great knitting, humor, generosity and strength.
3. Rachel with all of the crafting from knitting to paper cutting to photography, it's all beautiful!
4. Nichole with her pups, knitting, reviews and charity work.
5. Darcy with her great knits and giveaways. (Already got this award once!)

A few weeks ago, I met up with Moriah, and she gave me an early birthday present! Obviously she knows me... with the stitch markers, blues and butterflies. I've been itching to bead since she gifted them! Thanks Moriah! (Sorry my picture size is still off, haven't figured out how to make pic's not get cut off like that... work in progress I guess)
Contest: Darcy is holding a KaratStix giveaway

Next: Details on my blogoversary contest coming... still working on details.
By then, hopefully I'll have some knitting to show. It's getting really close to the wrap up of my spring knitting goals as well. Yikes!

Which Ewe Are You?

2009-06-10T10:26:00.001-07:00

Quiz: I saw this super cute quiz, posted on cosymakes blog, in honor of The Knitter's Book of Wool that is coming out in October...I'm a Shropshire. Down and down-type wool feels bouncy and crisp and they are often used as filler yarns because they give lightweight bulk to the finished product.

As the oldest pedigree breed, Shropshires can claim elegance, manners, and grace as their inheritance. Like other down and down-type wools, Shropshires stick together and are always sure to make new friends feel welcome.

Swap Updates: I had a bit of a lull around here, and before I knew it I was signing up for swaps left and right!

So far I'm signed up for...
SP14: Sign up now until June 15th. Different price ranges again like in SP13. Swap runs July through September.
Saucy Swap: On Ravelry. I love hot sauce, couldn't resist. I think entries have already closed... Mail Date: July 18th
Caffeine Addicts Summer Swap "My Favorite Things": On Ravelry. Big coffee and tea fan, a.k.a. addict, also couldn't resis this swap. Register now, closes June 10th. (Today!) Mail date: July 15th

Dearest Blog,

2009-06-05T10:59:00.000-07:00

Happy 2nd Blogoversary! We've had another great year. In the first year, you became a part of my life. Now I can't imagine not blogging. Sure, I've had lulls and lags, (including another move!) but "life" happens. I always look forward to come back and post about what has been keeping me for so long!

This year has brought me from one minor casualty, to Kenny Chesney stalking, to 2 Stitch 'N Pitches, to 6 more (of 17?) swaps, to winning contests, to my second dish rag tag (where this time I was a captain), to baby knitting to secret knitting and back again. Can't wait to see what next year brings!

Take a bite of the famous virtual blogoversary cupcake to celebrate! I just read a post today saying how mini-blogs (facebook, twitter etc.) are overtaking blogs in popularity. I see people twittering, but I also see my google reader continually filling up with new posts to read. I don't see blogging going anywhere. I think there is definitely a perk to both, and while I just blog, I don't think blogs will diminish. I can't imagine not blogging what I'm thinking, knitting, or etc, after only 2 years. Sure, some people prefer to mini-blog that sort of stuff, but I'm sure there are many bloggers out there like me. Maybe blogging is developing and expanding as technology advances, but I'll still continue to blog and I don't think too many blogs are going anywhere soon.

The blog wanted to hold a contest in celebration of the past 2 years, and I agree. The blog wouldn't be the same without all of the friends that it has made along the way. It's time to celebrate! Stay tuned for more info!

Thanks for everything blog,

Love,
~Ponyknit

Knitting mojo... please come home...

2009-05-27T10:28:00.000-07:00

I guess I could say it has been stolen by what we all call life.*

Dear Life,

Can I please have my knitting mojo back?

Thanks,
Love,
~Ponyknit

*Life breaks down into several portions of a whole: a full-time job (including designing and
dry-run of a new 3 day technique course), freelancing (here comes show season), working out (I'm close to my goal, 4 lbs. to go!), and still dealing with "the move" including moving my horse to our new barn later today.

WIP: I have made some progress on the booties, but not nearly enough to warrant a new pic.

I recently found some pic's that I had forgotten to post a while ago. Here's Daizzy with her sister to distract you from my lack of knitting mojo. (Yes, they are littermates. Their mom was a smooth and dad was a rough collie)

Daizzy was enjoying a treat (a bone for tough chewers, but it still only lasted about a 1/2 hr. She loved it!) on her favorite blue mat.

And her sister tried to sneak in and snag it...

Daizzy ended up sharing with her sister, and let her clean up the pieces that fell off of the bone while she was gnawing at it. Sharing is caring ;)

Next: Hopefully WIP worthy pics next time!
Stay tuned, my blogoversary is coming in 9 days...

Beginning of booties

2009-04-30T08:33:00.000-07:00

There has been SOME knitting...I've started working on one of my Spring Goals, baby booties. Another goal was to plan what baby items I wanted to make, and decide on what I need and try to use stash. So far, for the booties I've been using Cashmerino DK from my stash. I'm thinking about making a Garter Stitch Baby Kimono to match the booties, and I'll most likely need to pick something up for that.

Spring Knitting Goals
1. Dust off and make progress on Feb. Lady Sweater.
2. Work on Bijouterie.
3. Plan baby items, using stash or pick up materials needed. (2 friends due Aug/Sept.) Currently working on one pair of booties. May make a Garter-Stitch Baby Kimono as well.
4. Make progress on baby items (especially if sweater knitting is getting too hot!) Booties.
5. Decide on next lace project ;) (work on #4 prior to casting on!)

Deadline: June 21

Also, I WON a tunes contest at Ministrone Soup. The Garden Tweed is gorgeous, thanks Mini! Now I've got to decide what to knit...

I couldn't resist posting this pic. I got one of my first iced coffee's of the year on my way into work the other day, and LOVED the statement on the cup.

GO SOX!

While I'm at it... Let's go BRUINS!

P.S. Take a peek at this site. It's the Iced Coffee Weather predictor. I'm sure it would have said yes over the weekend or the beginning of this week. Today it is telling me NO. hahaha

What Kind of Sweater are You?

2009-04-13T13:18:00.000-07:00

Saw this on Abbyknitz, also couldn't resist.

You Are an Argyle Sweater

You are contemplative, brainy, and serious.

You don't take much lightly - life is too important for that.

You are a very determined person. You don't let anything stand in your way.

You think out your actions and act deliberately. You don't waste time, money, or resources.

What Kind of Sweater Are You?

P.S. I'm finally all moved. The stash (yarn) survived the move safe and sound. Regular posts should resume soon. I have an update on Daizzy's agility class, but sadly, no knitting to speak of just yet. Hopefully I will have some to show soon!

Winter Knitting Goals Wrap Up

2009-04-01T06:02:00.000-07:00

A bit late with the wrap up, but I was waiting to post my Forest Canopy Shawl FO pics.

Winter Knitting Goals
1. Finish Feb. Lady Sweater. (hahaha NO)
2. Make progress on my Forest Canopy Shawl. FINISHED!
3. Attempt to knit jewelry. (Bijouterie, Winter Knitty) (Have materials)
4. Make something for Hot Cocoa Swap 2 downstream partner. (Marshmallow Woman) Deadline: March 20th

I was really close to getting 3 out of 4 done, but I ended up completing 2 out of 4. Initially I had just wanted to make progress on the shawl but I couldn't put it down and work on #1 and 3. I will try to consider the obsession of lace knitting next time I set my knitting goals ;) haha I wanted to work on Bijouterie but I ran out of time. I didn't have a lot of knitting time towards the end of the winter season, but in the end I still completed two FO's.

Spring Knitting Goals
1. Dust off and make progress on Feb. Lady Sweater.
2. Work on Bijouterie.
3. Plan baby items, using stash or pick up materials needed. (2 friends due Aug/Sept.) Currently thinking at least one pair of booties.
4. Make progress on baby items (especially if sweater knitting is getting too hot!)
5. Decide on next lace project ;) (work on #4 prior to casting on!)

Deadline: June 21

I am currently moving, and then I will be moving again in a few months, so I am trying to set more conservative goals this season. Also, as much as I want to finish my Feb. Lady Sweater, I realize that it might get too hot. In addition, I'm currently suffering from lace knitting withdrawal and want to cast on for a new project. I realize that I should start some baby items first, before I get glued to my lace project and repeat what happened for the Winter!

While getting behind in my posts, I also got behind in updates of how Daizzy's progress in her Beginner Agility class!
She has gone to 4 (of 6) classes now. Our 5th is this evening. So far, she has amazed me. She has been doing great! She has gone through tunnels, barrels, loops, walked on planks (2 feet wide initially, now 1 foot wide), and leaped over countless amounts of jumps including long jumps.

Here's some pictures of us practicing her homework. Before this agility class (or even her obedience class) she would not like to put her feet on different, especially slippery, things. Here she is working on standing on a lid to a Rubbermaid container.

Look Ma, I'm standing with my front paws on the lid. It's not too bad. Where's my cookie?

How is this? I'll sit in front of the lid, is that what you want?Ooooh I get it, OK. All paws on lid. Got it. Cookie please?

Celebrations!

2009-03-31T10:34:00.000-07:00

My Marshmallow Lady won 3rd in the Cocoa Swap buddy buster contest! A requirement of the Cocoa Swap was to knit your partner a buddy buster. Once I found out that my partner loved marshmallows, and I found the pattern that the swap hostess Michelle had designed, I had to make her one! I won a set of stitch markers from InsanKnitty's Etsy shop! Michelle also included a cute hot cocoa notepad in the package (You'll have to imagine a cute cup of cocoa, it somehow skipped the pic, and now it is packed). Thanks go out to Michelle for hosting such a fun swap, and for donating beautiful stitch markers and goodies!

SparkPeople Update: New You Bootcamp II Completed (Feb.), Swimsuit Bootcamp I completed (March).

For the month of February, I participated for the second time, in a 4 week program on Sparkpeople. I loved it! I feel a lot stronger!
New You Bootcamp II stats:
New You Bootcamp II weight loss: 3.2 lbs.
Inches Lost: 2.5 inches

Total weight loss during both New You Challenges: 6.2 lbs
Total Inches Lost: 5.5 inches

For the month of March, I participated in a different bootcamp, the Swimsuit Bootcamp. It is similar in the way that it alternates the muscles you work each day, but it uses different excercises. I just finished it this weekend.
Swimsuit Bootcamp Stats:
Swimsuit Bootcamp weight loss: 4.2 lbs.
Inches Lost: 3.5 inches

Total weight loss during both New You Challenges and the Swimsuit Challenge: 10.4 lbs.!!!
Total Inches Lost: 9 inches

What's up for the month of April? I haven't quite decided. Maybe a combo of the Swimsuit Bootcamp and a mix of some of my favorites.

Yikes, where did March go?

2009-03-31T06:16:00.000-07:00

As I was thinking about posting, I logged in and realized it HAD been quite a while! I blame moving, Spark (ing), my freelance teaching picking up... and well, life happening ;) In order to catch up, I will be making a few posts in the near future!

First things first, I present,
a FO:My first shawl! I seriously loved knitting it. I am now seeing the addiction! I keep plotting what lace I will cast on for next. I must have put it down for almost 3 weeks because I was really busy, and all I had was 5 rows left! I kept trying to finish it, but I couldn't find the time. I finally got around to finishing and blocking it last week.

Pattern: Forest Canopy Shawl by Susan Lawrence
Weapons: US 8 Knitpicks Options Circulars
Yarn: Knitpicks Ambrosia in Cornflower (3 skeins)
Measurements: Pre-blocking: 18L X 37W Post-blocking: 23L X 47W
Start/Finish: December 25, 2008 - March 20, 2009
I flew through most of the shawl, minus the last 5 rows, in about a month. It could have easily been done in a month of leisure knitting, but life got in the way before I finished it.
Recipient: Not sure...

Notes: Great pattern for my first shawl. I ran out of yarn had to tink back at the second to last row to omit one of the pattern rows and bind off. I ended up skipping just the second to last row and binding off. Also, I learned a new bind off, it was nice and stretchy! I would have liked to make the shawl even bigger, but overall I love it! I see myself knitting another shawl in the very near future, and maybe another Forest Canopy shawl after that!
Modifications: When I had the correct amount of stitches to begin my edging, I felt as if my shawl was small and I still had one full ball of yarn left. I carried on for 3.5 more repeats past what the pattern called for, and the pattern grew exponentially! Then I began the edging.

Quick Post...

2009-02-26T08:10:00.000-08:00

Here's another pic of Daizzy after her graduation. I've been posting about her so much these days, I didn't want her to feel left out of this post. ;) This week she seemed confused that she didn't have "school" on Tuesday. She had this week off, and next week we start our 6 week Beginner Agility class.

Contest: Head on over to Darcy's blog and check out her awesome contest.

SparkPeople Update: I'm currently finishing up my last week of Bootcamp. This is my 8th week of the New You Bootcamp Challenge. (I repeated the 4 week Challenge) I'm still enjoying the workouts. I feel so much stronger. I will post a recap soon. I haven't taken my measurements all month, I'm anxious to see if there were any changes. I'd like to continue with a challenge next month. I think I will change things up and try the Swimsuit Bootcamp instead.

Swap Updates:
1. Cocoa Swapin' 2 is complete, my downstream received her package, and I received an awesome package from my spoiler.
2. SP13 is almost complete. I am finalizing my downstreams' final package.

WIP: STILL trying to get my shawl finished. I haven't had much time to work on it. After knitting a bit last weekend, I only have a few rows left. Hopefully I'll be posting a FO in my next post!

Daizzy Graduated and Winter Goals Check-In

2009-02-20T14:00:00.000-08:00

Daizzy graduated from her Beginner Obedience and Behavior class this week!

Take a look at THAT "sit and stay" while Dusty demonstrates his "down."

Here's her certificate to prove it ;)

I'm so proud of her! We have both learned so much in just 6 weeks! I am amazed at how quickly she has caught on. In one of the final classes the instructor asked the class if any of us were considering going into obedience or agility classes in the future. I asked the instructor if she thought that Daizzy would do well in agility. She said that she thought she would, that most dogs love it. She encouraged me to enter a 6 week class because it is just enough to get a taste of agility and see if it suits her or not. I have always wanted to do agility, and I think this is a good time to see what Daizzy thinks about it! Our first class is in two weeks.

"Mom, what's agility? When do I get to go to school again?"

I feel like I'm overdue for a Winter Knitting Goals Update:

1. Finish Feb. Lady Sweater.
2. Make progress on my Forest Canopy Shawl. (Almost DONE!)
3. Attempt to knit jewelry. (Bijouterie, Winter Knitty) (Materials purchased, not done yet)
4. Make something for Hot Cocoa Swap 2 downstream partner. DONE
Deadline: March 20th

I'm doing well, but I have a loooong way to go before my sweater is done. I haven't picked it up since I cast on for my shawl, so therefore I don't see it being completed by the deadline. However, I have discovered how addictive lace knitting is, and after setting my Winter Goals, I decided to finish my shawl first. I knit my partner a Marshmallow Woman to complete #4. I hope to also complete #2 and 3 before the deadline.

Happy Knitting!

Cocoa Swappin' 2 Package Arrived!

2009-02-16T10:30:00.000-08:00

I received my Cocoa Swap package from Jenn. She did an awesome job! I got 7 flavors of her favorite Cocoa to try. I'm always looking to try people's favorites! Also, a yummy skein of Schaefer Heather Yarn and chocolate twizzlers from her local candy store. She sent me a yarn cutter knowing that I didn't have one yet, and it made a welcome addition to my notions bag! I also received a handmade awesome lavender sack, which I could smell through the box! (Lavender is one of my favorites!) Last but not least, she knit me a Sleepy! He is soo cute!

Shhhh, don't wake Sleepy! (You can also see the lavender Sack a bit better.)

Yummy Schaefer and twists!

Thanks Jenn! You sent me a lot of your favorites, including yarn, cocoa and twizzlers that I haven't tried before, I can't wait!

I can now show my top secret knitting for my downsteam partner now that she's received it! During the swap I found out that she loved marshmallows, so it seemed appropriate (thanks to our swap hostess for sharing such an adorable pattern!) to knit her a Marshmallow Woman.
Marshmallow Woman
Pattern: Marshmallow (wo)man by Michelle Malach
Weapons: Size 10 1/2 Bamboo DPN's (yarn called for 10, but I surprisingly didn't have 10 DPN's, they worked out just fine.)
Yarn: Peruvia by Berrocco
Size: O/S Started/Finished: Feb. 7-9, 2009. (Could be completed in one sitting, but I didn't have stuffing) Recipient: Downstream Cocoa Swap 2 Partner
Comments: I followed her pattern for the body and improvised a bit on the limbs. Next time I'd make the legs longer. It was hard to judge how long they "should" be, it's not like I've ever seen a marshmallow with legs before! Sewed on buttons for eyes and strung some beads for a mouth. Made mouth not firmly attached so that it’s expression can change dependent on how it sits. Overall a great pattern, and a super quick knit! I could have finished in one sitting if I had the "stuffing" on hand.
Future Options: It may be helpful to put some rice or "weight" into the bottom of the body.

Second Package From SP13!

2009-02-10T06:30:00.000-08:00

She's done it again... I've been spoiled!

The package was bursting! First off, 2 skeins of Cherry Tree Hill in "River Run." The colors are definitely something I would have picked for myself. They're beautiful! One skein of Wildfoote sock yarn. It feels so soft! The Everything Knitting book which is a welcome addition to my library! Inside a cute heart tote bag I found beautiful flower note cards, a butterfly notepad, "A" notepad, and pens with my name on them. I can't wait for spring to use the note cards and notepad. I love the butterflies! I typically can't find anything with my name, I don't know how she found them! I also got some pouches of hot cocoa, an adorable dog mug, a tin of cookies, and some boxes of Sweethearts (my favorite candy this time of year!)

Here's a closer look of the CTH...and the squooshy sock yarn.Here's a close-up of the mug. It somehow missed the "group" shot!Thanks go out to my SP13 spoiler again for such an awesome package!
I can't wait to find out who you are!

Work Hard, Play Hard!

2009-02-09T12:23:00.000-08:00

"Grrrrrr...Yum!"

"Whaaat? I'm working!"

"See if you tilt your head like this you break off more chewy stuff faster!"

This week, we had a moderate storm, and the bulk of it was during Daizzy's Obedience class time on Tuesday evening. I called the school, but never reached anyone, so I was not even sure if it was being held. I was set to go anyway, until I saw a three car pile-up next to my driveway. I decided to take that as a sign and stay home. Daizzy and I have been doing our homework, and as a reward she got another insert for her Everlasting Treat Ball. Originally I was hesitant to buy this toy for her, because she can typically destroy a toy labeled to be for aggressive chewers. Luckily, we've had this one for almost a year and it is barely showing wear! Also, the treat inserts last a really long time. She's quite an aggressive chewer and gets hours of gnawing and chewing out of each insert.
WIP: Almost done with my Forest Canopy Shawl. Once I completed the patterns recommended amount of repeats I still had more than a ball of yarn left, so I kept going. I've completed 2.5 more repeats and I'm starting to worry if I have enough to finish. I think I will move on to the edging now. For a while I kept thinking it would be too small, but now my shawl is growing exponentially!
Also, I am almost done with my Cocoa Swap Buddy Buster. I'll post details once my partner gets her package!
SparkPeople New You Bootcamp Challenge COMPLETED! The challenge ran the month of January. I enjoyed it so much I have decided to participate with some other motivated Sparkers in another round for the month of February. This program has helped to get me moving every day. I've now become accustomed to doing one 10 minute video each day, 5 days (minimum) of cardio, and typically I participate in the day's challenge video as well. My goal for next month is to get more cardio in. Overall, I feel more fit and my clothes fit better. I didn't have any huge losses, but any loss for me is a loss. In total I lost 3 lbs. The change in my measurements is more surprising, between my chest waist and hips I lost 3 inches! I gained 1 inch of muscle between my thighs and arms, from all of the lunges and weight training no doubt!
(*graphic was borrowed from SparkPeople.com and saved to my browser)

Feast of Brigid Blogosphere Poetry Slam

2009-02-02T11:00:00.000-08:00

Today is The Fourth Annual Brigid in the Blogosphere Poe try Slam

"Hope" is the thing with feathers

"Hope" is the thing with feathers—
That perches in the soul—
And sings the tune without the words—
And never stops—at all—

And sweetest—in the Gale—is heard—
And sore must be the storm—
That could abash the little Bird
That kept so many warm—

I've heard it in the chillest land—
And on the strangest Sea—
Yet, never, in Extremity,
It asked a crumb—of Me.

Emily Dickinson

If anyone else wants to participate, post any poem you'd like on your blog. Comment here so others can enjoy it too!

Blogger Poetry

2009-01-29T13:49:00.000-08:00

Image found at: http://wordandimage.wordpress.com/2007/09/
Made with concrete poetry generator (really neat, try it!)

I found this on The Spirit Trail and it sounded like fun!

Invitation to The Fourth Annual Brigid in the Blogosphere Poetry Slam

Feel free to copy the following to your blog and spread the word.
Let poetry bless the blogosphere once again!

WHAT: A Bloggers (Silent) Poetry Reading

WHEN: Anytime February 2, 2009

WHERE: Your blog

WHY: To celebrate the Feast of Brigid, aka Groundhog Day

HOW: Select a poem you like - by a favorite poet or one of your own - to post February 2nd.

RSVP: If you plan to publish, feel free to leave a comment and link on this post. So, link to whoever you hear about this from and a mighty web of poetry will be spun. Feel free to pass this invitation on to any and all bloggers.

Getting DOWN to business...

2009-01-26T13:51:00.000-08:00

After our first class, Daizzy and I practiced and practiced her "sit" for homework. This week she learned "down" in a matter of minutes in her second class! Woo Hoo!

Here she is working on this weeks assignment, including "stay" as well...What a smart girl! I am so happy with her progress. We've got her third class tomorrow.

Dusty has petitioned that he hasn't been on the blog these days. While Daizzy and I were practicing, he was silently petitioning and working on his "down" and "stay" in the next room from us. I had to get photographic evidence.

In order to even the cards, he also demonstrated his favorite, "sit."

Too bad I can't get those on command... you know what they say about cats. ;)
He does know one trick by command, I'll have to have him demo that another time.

Lastly, he wanted to one-up Daizzy, so he demonstrated how to "play dead."

He's pretty convincing!
Daizzy listened to her Lassie instincts and checked in on him immediately.

I wonder what he'll do after Daizzy learns something new!

WIP: I have promised a WIP shot, here's the latest "blob" pic of my Forest Canopy Shawl. I finished the pattern repeats, but I'm going to do a few more. It seemed too small to stop now, and I have a little more than one of three skeins left. I wanted to finish it this weekend, but I didn't get enough time to work on it. Hopefully I can get some solid knitting time in to finish soon. Lace knitting is sooo addictive!

Cocoa Swap Q3

2009-01-26T13:22:00.000-08:00

Cocoa Swap 2 Question 3: Marshmallows or Whipped Cream? - The big debate.

I typically have my hot cocoa without any frills and save add-ins for a treat. For a special treat I love to add marshmallows into my hot cocoa. I have been craving a cup of hot chocolate with marshmallows since this swap started, I think I'm going to have to pick some up soon! I'm not sure why, but I usually save whipped cream for the top of a frozen frappachino at Starbucks in the summer instead.

I came across these heart shaped marshmallows while searching on Google, aren't these adorable?

Cocoa Swap Q2

2009-01-22T14:16:00.000-08:00

Cocoa Swap 2 Question 2: Post a recipe of how you would make your Hot Cocoa

I typically use a pouch of Cocoa Mix, or less than a scoop of Mint Hot Cocoa Mix (from Trader Joe's) at home. I haven't made my own from scratch yet, but I did watch an episode of "Good Eats" on Food Network where Alton Brown made this. It looked so good but SO yummy, I saved the recipe.

Hot Cocoa

(Good Eats, Episode:Art of Darkness II, Cocoa)

Yield:: 5 1/2 cups dry mix

2 cups powdered sugar
1 cup cocoa (Dutch-process preferred)
2 1/2 cups powdered milk
1 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons cornstarch
1 pinch cayenne pepper, or more to taste
Hot water

Combine all ingredients in a mixing bowl and incorporate evenly. In a small pot, heat 4 to 6 cups of water.

Fill your mug half full with the mixture and pour in hot water. Stir to combine. Seal the rest in an airtight container, keeps indefinitely in the pantry. This also works great with warm milk.

I'd toss some marshmallows and maybe even some chopped candy canes in if I had them on hand.

(Couldn't resist the pic of Alton Brown. He puts a geeky spin on cooking and baking, what's not to love?)

Class is in session...

2009-01-19T18:25:00.000-08:00

Daizzy had spent the beginning of her life in the show ring, at breed shows. Now she's ready for another job! Daizzy and I attended our first Beginner Basic Obedience and Behavior Class on Tuesday. We have started to work on what I would consider to be "normal" dog skills. I had been trying to work on this one for quite a while on our own, but it wasn't clear enough to Daizzy.

At class our teacher shared some wisdom, and LOOK at who knows how to "sit." In the pic she's also practicing her "stay." We've got class again tomorrow, it runs for 6 weeks. As seen in the pic, we've got plenty of snow. We had two snowstorms over the long weekend. Daizzy doesn't seem to mind if it means that after she helps mom shovel she can play frisbee in the snow!

OTN: I've been working on my Forest Canopy Shawl. It has approached the "blob" stage. It is growing, but picture evidence will not really show it. I will show a WIP pic next time, despite the "blob" status.

KIP and SP13 Question

2009-01-16T13:24:00.000-08:00

Some knitting in the press* in USA Today.When I was flying down to Florida near the end of October, I had two run in's with the Presidential Candidates and their crews. When my plane had a stop-over in Jacksonville, we saw the Obama camp boarding their plane. (As everyone says, "If I only knew I'd be blogging about this, I would have taken a pic!") Our pilot let their plane leave ahead of us and told us he'd make up the time in the air. It wasn't every day that Obama was on the same runway! When we landed in Tampa, on time, our pilot pointed out to look out to the right, it was McCain's plane. They were just getting ready for take off! Crazy!

*thought I'd keep you knitters on your toes, I didn't mean knits in progress this time.

SP13 Question:
What is one thing you think you can't do that you really want to do in 2009? Please elaborate! The one thing I think that will be really hard for me to do, but I hope I can do, is to stick with working out more regularly. I've been doing my SparkPeople New You Bootcamp for 12 days so far, but I know it is a challenge to keep a regular workout schedule. I really like how Coach Nichole has set up workouts that alternate muscle groups. When I worked out without a program previously, I didn't typically do that, and I can already feel the benefits. I know that after Bootcamp I may have to change my schedule a bit, but I hope to find a regular workout schedule that works for the long term.

Cocoa Swap 2 Scavenger Hunt

2009-01-13T07:39:00.000-08:00

Awesome idea Hostess Michelle!

1. Who wants to try plant fibers? Emily
2. Who wants to learn to crochet? Alicia Michelle
3. Who collects yarn? Darcy (handspun), Jenn Kate
4. Who loves yellow? Alicia
5. Who doesn’t like fruit flavors? Jenn
6. Who loves Malabrigo (who doesn’t??? hahaha) ? Alicia (easy answer) Michelle and Monica love Malabrigo.
7. Who has one mitt to go to finish her Endpaper Mitts? Elizabeth
8. Who’s favorite animal is a dog? Alicia (easy answer) Becca (Daschounds) Channon Holly (her dog Max) Mary Lynn Michelle
9. Who likes to paint? Kathy
10. Who has too many stitch markers? Ariel
11. Who likes Bailey’s in their cocoa? Becca, Channon
12. Who likes Starbucks salted caramel cocoa? Darcy Holly
13. Who can’t stand vanilla flavored cocoa? Channon
14. Who’s favorite animal is a hedgehog? Ariel
15. Who might stab themselves over Neon Yarn? Jenn Laurie
16. Who’s oldest UFO is at least 15 years old? Kate
17. Who likes crystallized ginger? Chelle
18. Who likes whipped cream in their cocoa? Elizabeth Chan's Husband ;) Monica Ruth
19. Who likes marshmallow fluff in their cocoa? Becca
20. Who needs stitch holders? Holly

Cocoa Swap 2 Questionnaire

2009-01-09T16:26:00.000-08:00

Questionnaire

The Yarn…

1. Do you knit, crochet, or do both? Knit only. May learn crochet one of these days...

2. What is your favorite one-skein project? What item do you find you knit the most of? Amanda Hat. I have knit scarves and dishcloths mostly. I hope to make more hats and mittens.

3. Do you like using a particular type of needle or hook? (wood, metal, straight, circular) Is there something you’ve been wanting to try, or a particular size you always seem to be short on? I think each type has it's place. I have a fair amount of bamboo straights in my collection and lately I have been adding both aluminum and plastic circulars to my collection. I am preferring circular over straight these days when I have the option. (Knitpicks options and random others) I keep running out of size 6 Knitpicks Options needles. I keep having to swap them around.

4. What’s on your needles\hook right now? What’s your oldest UFO (unfinished object)? Currently I've got my NaKniSweMo February Lady Sweater waiting on the needles, it's waiting for me to finish my Forest Canopy Shawl. Oldest UFO is Clogs (OCS... one clog syndrome.)

The Chocolate

1. Do you prefer boxed/packets, or something homemade? Either. I'm open to try someone else's favorite.

2. Marshmallows or whipped cream? I don't typically have either on my hot chocolate. Marshmallow's are a nice addition, whipped cream is yummy for a special occasion.

3. Do you use any ‘add ins’? Typically no. Since I've logged into the swaps' site, and saw the hot cocoa with chocolate chips and whipped cream, I've been considering it...

4. Are you a year round cocoa drinker or just in the winter months? More in the winter time.

7. You’ve just made the perfect cup of cocoa - is it in a thick mug, or a thinner cup? Where would you sit to drink it? A thick mug with my current WIP and latest Netflicks.

8. You’re enjoying that perfect cup, what treats will you enjoy with it? Are they sweet or salty? Crunchy? Soft and flaky? Some chocolate or cookies.

It’s all YOU!

1. Do you have other hobbies like spinning or scrapbooking? I do not spin. I love making stitch markers. I have also started doing some small sewing projects. I don't mind sewing by hand but Now that I have a little machine (thanks SP13 spoiler!!!) I'll imagine I will be sewing more. I have a lot of ideas for tote bags, needle organizers, etc.

3. What is your favorite part of Winter? SNOW!

5. Are you allergic to anything? No allergies. Aversion: I don't like ultra dark chocolate.

6. Are you on Ravelry? What’s your ID? Ponyknit

7. How would you spend an ideal winter afternoon/day? Out to the barn for a ride, and back home to snuggle up with Daizzy and a cup of hot cocoa. We'd watch a movie and knit ;)

8. What’s your favorite animal? Tie, Horses and dogs.

Onward to 2009!

2009-01-02T11:25:00.000-08:00

FO's of 2008 (Listed by date completed.)

February: Winter Doldrum's Dishcloth and Tribbles
May: Speckled Washcloth, Amanda Hat, Shimmer Eye Pillow
June: Bib O' Love #1 (green/yellow)
July: Baby Genius Green Burp Cloth, Secret Square
Aug: Dish Rag Tag Cloth The Sequel
Sept: Bib O' Love #2 (green/blue)
Oct: Baby Genius Blue Burp Cloth
Dec: Mom's Flip-Top Mitts

I spent most of my knitting time over the holidays working on my Forest Canopy Shawl. I am really enjoying the pattern. The KnitPicks Ambrosia is sooo soft!I recently posted my Winter Knitting Goals, which include progress on my shawl and a finished February Lady Sweater. Because I'm enjoying working on the shawl so much, I may just keep knitting until I finish. My goal was just to make some progress, but it's quite addictive! I just started the second skein.

Blog Update: I gave my blog a bit of a face lift. You might have noticed the Flickr Badge (on sidebar.) I always like to see other people's FO's or knitting pictures while browsing their blogs. I also added pictures of each individual WIP with links to them on Ravelry (see "On the Needles" on sidebar.)

Maybe seeing what I have OTN more regularly will be that extra push to give some of my lingering WIP's some much needed attention. I didn't list a goal of working on some old WIP's this time because I wanted to get my sweater completed first. I remember how hard it was to put down Mom's Mitts in order to cast on for my shawl to complete all of my fall goals.

I guess I am not only a process knitter, maybe I am part product knitter too. I like having several projects OTN at one time, so that I can choose what I want to work on with the time/place that I am going to knit. However, I am finding that once I really get into a project, I'm quite monogamous.

Quiz: Here' a fun quiz that has been bouncing around cyberspace.

You appear to be a Knitting Guru. You love knitting and do it all the time. While finishing a piece is the plan, you still love the process, and can't imagine a day going by without giving some time to your yarn. Packing for vacation involves leaving ample space for the stash and supplies. It can be hard to tell where the yarn ends and you begin.
http://marniemaclean.com

Bootcamp: Also, I just joined a fitness challenge on SparkPeople.com. I have been logging into the site since July. It's a great place to keep track of your workouts and what your eating, and it's free! I have been trying to get more regular treadmill workouts in, and while I was on the site I saw a post about the SparkPeople New You Bootcamp Challenge. For the month of January, each day you are to do a 10 minute fitness video, and 5 days a week you need to do 30 minutes of cardio. It sounds like the kick in the butt that I need. If you join SP or are already a member, comment here and we can swap usernames.

Happy New Year! Happy Knitting!

Winter Knitting Goals and a FO

2008-12-28T15:16:00.000-08:00

Fall Knitting Goals Wrap-Up

1. Finish other baby gift set. DONE
2. Start my first shawl. (Notice the key word, start) (Forest Canopy Shawl).
3. Purchase yarn and make progress on first sweater. (A February Lady Sweater.) Ended up being my NaKniSweMo sweater. It's not done yet, but more progress than I expected when making these goals at least!
4. Work on more projects that have been OTN for far too long. (Finished Mom's Mitts)
5. Something for Amazing Autumn Coffee Swap (Registration closes Oct. 15th) Made Stitch Markers instead of knitting, due to NaKniSweMo and due to the fact that I hadn't made any for a while and missed it.

I met all of my goals, if I grant myself a bit of an extension! I got so caught up with finishing my Mom' Mitts that I could not put them down to cast on the shawl. I made more progress than I thought I could at the time I made my Fall goals, on both my February Lady Sweater and Mom's Mitts. This is the first time I met all of my set goals! Now comes that hard part, deciding on my Winter goals!

Here's a peek at my Forest Canopy Shawl WIP:
Winter Knitting Goals
1. Finish Feb. Lady Sweater.
2. Make progress on my Forest Canopy Shawl.
3. Attempt to knit jewelry. (Bijouterie, Winter Knitty)
4. Make something for Hot Cocoa Swap 2 downstream partner. (TBD, Rec: deadline Feb. 15th.) FYI: Registration opens Dec. 28th.
Deadline: March 20th

Mom's Mitts
Pattern: Urban Necessity Gloves by Colleen Meagher
Weapons: US6 DPN's, and KnitPick's Circular's
Yarn: Cascade 220
Size: Medium cuff, Large once 1/2 way to fingers and for cap. (Recipient has hands similar to mine w/long fingers.)
Started/Finished: Feb. 25th- Dec. 22, 2008.
Recipient: Mom

Comments: Casted on in February (2008) and finished first mitt (without cap) in March. I had started the second cuff with DPN's and then switched to circulars for the body of the mitt, and then switched back to DPN's for the fingers. I casted on second mitt in June, put it down for a while, and picked it back up in December. I knit the second mitt entirely on DPN's and was way more comfortable with them by the time I got to the fingers of the second mitt. I had issues understanding the cap directions, and ended up modifying the flap of the cap myself. I picked up 7 stitches at the top of the cap and then made short rows picking up 2 stitches on each side of the cap. I may add velcro or something once the mitts are used, to keep the cap more tightly shut, if needed.
Overall I liked making these mitts. I got way more comfortable working with DPN's. The fingers, although fiddly, were much easier for me the second time around. If I am to make another convertible mitt, I may try a different pattern next time. I really like the diamond on the top of the mitt and may include that chart on another pair. As most people mentioned, the hand portion of the mitt is a bit big, and next time I would just follow medium instructions. If I had made a medium cap instead of a large, the cap would also fit a bit more snugly.

Some Holiday Cheer and SP13 #2

2008-12-18T14:08:00.000-08:00

SP13 #2
Part A:
Are you doing any holiday knitting? Yes. I hadn't planned on it, and then because of my Fall Knitting Goals I started working on a UFO, my Mom's Mitts. The guilt started setting in, they were started right after X-Mas last year.

Part B:
Have you finished? YES!

Next:
1. Update on Fall Knitting Goals coming soon along with new Winter Knitting Goals. I sort of granted myself an extension, after I got so into finishing my lingering WIP.
2. FO pic's coming also!
3. Adorable ETSY purchase.

Here's my cute dog to distract you for now ;) I think I caught her making her X-Mas wishes.

"Santa, can I have some more chew toys? I keep running out. I also want some yummy treats.
Oh, and a new big and comfy bed."

Happy Holidays!

First packge from SP13

2008-12-18T06:56:00.000-08:00

WHOA! My SP13 spoiler had contacted me a little while ago and asked if I minded one of my packages being bigger than the others, and of course, I said no. Well she was not kidding about sending a big package! I worked late yesterday, and came home to her package. It had been left in front of a door that we don't use very much, so it had been waiting for 2 days.

I opened the box and found a (mini) Mighty-kite. Then, I found three wrapped packages with instructions.

The first package that I was instructed to open had a Clover Crochet set and beautiful earrings, that she made for me.

Next, I opened a package with a fat quarter of fabric.
Here's a closer look at the crochet hooks, earrings, kite, and fabric.

Then lastly, I opened a big wrapped box, which was a sewing machine! I bet it will be perfect to learn on!Thanks go out to my SP13 spoiler for such an AWESOME package. She knew I'd been itching to get sewing, and she has now helped me to get started. I can't wait!

One close-up for the lady.

She's so pretty, I think she deserves a name.

WIP Update: Mom's Mitts. (Try to ignore my silver thumb ring)
Finished first cap, almost. Followed the pattern but got confused. I think I'm going to graft the back portion of the mitt.

Christmas Meme

2008-12-16T07:09:00.000-08:00

Spotted this on Mommy+Knitter. Feel free to post this on your blog if you'd like to spread some cheer.

Wrapping paper or gift bags? Either. It depends on the gift. I like using gift bags when it's several small items, but I also like to wrap something up beautifully in a box.
Real tree or Artificial? Real, when I have my own house. But I'm sure I'll eventually resort to Artificial, it gets messy after a while.
When do you put up the tree? Usually the first weekend of December.
When do you take the tree down? Around New Years.
Do you like eggnog? Yes, especially the adult variety ;)
Favorite gift received as a child? I'm remembering Petster to be a hit...
Hardest person to buy for? My dad.
Easiest person to buy for? My pets. They are easy to please, if it involves toys and/or food.
Do you have a nativity scene? Nope. My mom does.
Mail or email Christmas cards? Prefer snail mail for X-Mas cards.
Worst Christmas gift you ever received? I can't think of one... I'm sure there is one in there somewhere.
When do you start shopping for Christmas? Used to hate shopping before T-day, and usually started shopping last minute. This year I started was just after T-Day, and have everything that I've bought wrapped already. I have a few things left. It is nice to be almost done well before X-Mas.
Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? Yes.
Favorite thing to eat at Christmas? Lasagna or Snowball cookies.
Lights on the tree? Yup, white only. Not a fan of colored lights.
Favorite Christmas song: Dominick the Donkey. (Hee Haw, Hee Haw)
Travel at Christmas or stay home? Stay at home. I usually travel to Florida sometime in January to celebrate with my brother and the gang.
Can you name all of Santa's reindeer? Yup. Dasher, Dancer, Prance, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner and Blixen.
Open the presents Christmas Eve or morning? One X-Mas Eve, the rest Christmas morning.
Most annoying thing about this time of the year? Obnoxious lawn ornaments.
Favorite ornament theme or color? I like a good mix of homemade ornaments and store bought in different colors and variety's.
What do you want for Christmas this year? Upgrades to my golf clubs, contributions toward my entry of Daizzy into a beginner obedience class.
Angel or star on top tree? Angel this year. Sometimes a star.
Favorite meal: Lasagna.

DPN Love, Swap Update, and a Quiz

2008-12-15T09:00:00.000-08:00

Last week I said I wanted to put some work towards the rest of my Fall Knitting Goals, and work on Mom's Mitts. I did, and I can't seem to put them down! Strangely, the second mitt was easier. (No OMS apparently.) I knit it entirely on (5" Brittany Birch) DPN's the whole time. For the first mitt, I was uncomfortable and swapped to circulars after the cuff. I think it also helped to be already on DPN's when I reached the fingers. I was way more comfortable using them by the time I reached the fiddly fingers, and I loved the feel of my Brittany DPN's. I also ripped some of the first mitt's fingers and re-knit, but it's still not the neatest knitting I've ever done.

Over the weekend I started the caps.

Swap Update:
SP13 has begun. I'm getting a package ready for my downstream. Cocoa Swap 2 is coming. Registration opens December 28th. Swap by Feb. 15th.

Quiz
I've recently gotten into this show. When I watched the first episode of the first season I did not like it. Now I've been watching last season on my Netflix and catching new episodes weekly. Good thing it's going to be after Grey's soon. Sounds like a good fit to me.

Knitted Gift Ideas AND Entertainment

2008-12-09T06:00:00.000-08:00

While catching up on my Google Reader I ran into a few things worth sharing:Dusto may need some new grubs. I mean there is already an 85% chance that he is plotting to kill me, so why not right? Not sure if I could actually get this ON him, but it would be entertaining.

Check out these adorable key cozies.

This picture was taken sometime last week. I've since made more progress.

I worked on my February Lady Sweater over the weekend (I'm finally done with the yoke.) I also worked on Mom's Mitts. I think posting my Fall goals got me itching to work on some more off of my list. Then, of course, I started thinking about these. I am getting close to finishing my goals. If I can just get started on my first shawl before December 21st, I will make all of my Fall goals. I want to make more progress on my Feb. Lady sweater and Mom's Mitts before then also.

Amazing Autumn Coffee Swap Package Received

2008-12-08T08:01:00.000-08:00

I received a great swap package from Frances! The box was bursting with gifts! Inside there was not only one, but two new brands of coffee to try! Boca Java and Blue Mountain. Blue Mountain smells awesome! I also got some M&M's, a super cute "Better latte than never" potholder , dishtowel, and coaster. I also received a pair of beautiful hand knit socks and 5 skeins of Hip-Hop (Berroco) along with two patterns, the Palindrome Hat and Palindrome scarf.

Here's a closer look at the yarn

Here's a close-up on the beautiful and WARM socksThanks Frances for such a lovely package. I love the coffee theme along with all of the gifts!
Thanks again! I can't wait to try the coffee.
The Hip-Hop looks like fun to knit. Also, I've always liked the Palindrome patterns.

Fall Knitting Goals, Some Stitch Markers and SP13 #1

2008-12-02T13:59:00.000-08:00

Because I haven't checked in for a while with my Fall Knitting Goal Progress:

1. Finish other baby gift set. DONE
2. Start my first shawl. (Notice the key word, start) (Forest Canopy Shawl, Simple Lace Shawl).
3. Purchase yarn and make progress on first sweater. (A February Lady Sweater.) Ended up being my NaKniSweMo sweater. It's not done yet, but more progress than I expected when making these goals at least!
4. Work on more projects that have been OTN for far too long. (Thinking Mom's Mitts?)
5. Something for Amazing Autumn Coffee Swap (Registration closes Oct. 15th) Made Stitch Markers instead of knitting, due to NaKniSweMo and due to the fact that I hadn't made any for a while and missed it.

Deadline: December 21st

So, I need to continue progress on #3, Feb. Lady Sweater, and #4, work on WIP's, and start #2, Shawl over the next few weeks. Possible? I think so! (Unlike my NaKniSweMo ideas... haha which is STILL proving to be a good motivator!)

Here are some pics of some stitch markers that I made for my Amazing Autumn Coffee Swap downstream partner, who just received her package on Saturday.

And some others that I made with secret intentions:

(Anyone have a clue as to why my pictures keep getting their right sides cropped when I post? I'm posting with photo's uploaded through Flickr. They look normal in my "edit" view, but are cropped in the published version)

SP13 Question #1 Since we've just had Thanksgiving here in the US, I'm wondering what everyone is most thankful for this year. You don't have to be in the US or even celebrate Thanksgiving to answer. Just share with us! :-) I am most thankful for my health, my family, and my friends (the family that you get to choose for yourself), and also my pets. After having some health issues with close family members this year, it is closer on my mind. Luckily my mare's health has improved from this time last year, and for that I am also thankful.

Coming soon, a new WIP pic of Feb. Lady Sweater.

Another NaKniSweMo Update and a Quiz

2008-11-28T17:43:00.000-08:00

Here's some another progress shot. After posting the blob of knitting on my last post, I realized I hadn't posted what it looked like more flat. Life continued to happen, but I stole time for a row here and there. Here's a WIP pic from before I knit while watching some Netflix and TV. (More recent photo coming soon.)

I'm hoping for more time over the rest of Thanksgiving break. I won't be making the November deadline for a sweater in the month of November, but I'm hoping to make a lot of progress into my first sweater before December hits! I've still got some more time to try.

Found this quiz over at Mariknits and I've recently been pondering this exact question. It just may have confirmed my beliefs. Dusto has been QUITE friendly lately...

Gobble Gobble and AACS Q5

2008-11-26T07:30:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving!

Autumn Coffee Swap (Final) Q5

This week is Thanksgiving in the US, and our Canadian friends have already celebrated their day of thanks. So for his week, share a recipe, or tell us about your favorite "Fall" foods.

My favorite fall foods are anything with apple. I love apple crisp, apple cider, and apple pie. this time of year. This fall I had a craving for apple cider doughnuts (and I'm not a doughnut person regularly). I still haven't had one since my craving hit this fall. The best apple cider doughnuts are from a little market near where I went to college out in Western MA. They are especially known for the apple cider doughnuts. They sell them faster than they can get them out of the oven!

And now for a bit of Thanksgiving knit dreaming...
Recently I saw these mitts and thought both options were quite cute. (Rav Link to Toast) Then I saw the Knotions Winter Issue and fell in love with this vest. (Fence Vest by Mara Leigh)

Maybe I should call it knit planning...
I'm loving this vest!
And my mom has been hinting that her Mitts aren't done yet,
and that she could use something in the meantime...

Hoping to have a lot of time to work on my NaKniSweMo sweater during my time off for the Holiday, while it's still November...
Almost past yoke.
Sooo not finishing in November, but I can try to get closer to finished before December hits.
It doesn't hurt to have *more* knits lined up for "next" right?
I like how this his pic shows the reds in this heather Cascade.

The Secret is out...

2008-11-20T06:33:00.000-08:00

It has been received... NOW I can reveal the secret behind my Secret Square. It started with a brilliant idea from Krista of KnitDeleware upon hearing of a fellow bloggers Mom's passing. First Krista sent an email to a bunch of knitters. Then a collaboration of these knitters sent squares to Krista. She then seamed them into a blanket. Once it was completed, Krista sent the knit hug over to Rachel from Yarn-A-Go-Go.

Can you feel the love? When Knitters efforts are put together, the results are amazing!

Some more NaKniSweMo

2008-11-16T19:20:00.000-08:00

Not much knitting, but some progress to report. Life got in the way again... Next update I hope to have more visible progress ;)

After posting about my minor casualty, I emailed KnitPicks and asked about their replacement policy and they mailed out a replacement promptly! YAY!

SP13 Questionnaire

2008-11-13T08:10:00.000-08:00

SP13 Questionnaire

1. What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with? What fibers do you absolutely *not* like? I would have to say my love right now is Malabrigo, but I also really enjoy mohair and other yarns. I like soft yarn and I like wooly yarn. It depends what I'm making. I do not like 100% acrylic yarn, but I have no problem with a mixture of acrylic. I do not like fun fur or eyelash yarn. I'm always open to trying someone else's favorite.

2. What do you use to store your needles/hooks in? Knitpicks Options in their own binder/pockets. Straight needles in a roll. (Gifted from Christmas swap)

3. How long have you been knitting & how did you learn? Would you consider your skill level to be beginner, intermediate or advanced? I have been knitting for about 3 years. I guess I am somewhere in intermediate. I have done some work with increases/decreases, K2TOG, some cables, and YO's. I always like when I pick a new pattern and it has a few new skills for me to pick up along the way. Thinking about socks sometime soon. Currently knitting my first sweater for NaNiSweMo

4. Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list? Yes, amazon. (see sidebar)

5. What's your favorite scent? I LOVE lavender. It's sooo relaxing. I also love the smell of fresh roses. I also like "clean" scents.

6. Do you have a sweet tooth? Favorite candy? Yes. I like most sweets. Including snickers, dove chocolate, swedish fish, gummi bears etc. I dislike really dark chocolate (over 70%)

7. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do? Do you spin? I do not spin. I love making stitch markers. I have also started doing some small sewing projects. I don't mind sewing by hand but I feel that if I buy myself a little machine I'll be sewing a LOT more. I have a lot of ideas. (tote bags, needle organizers, etc.)

8. What kind of music do you like? Can your computer/stereo play MP3s? (if your buddy wants to make you a CD) I have a love for most music. I love country, top 20, jazz (esp. miles davis), most everything except really heavy metal. I can listen to MP3's in my car.

9. What's your favorite color(s)? Any colors you just can't stand? I love yellow and blue. I'm also a pink fan. I have something against purple. I still end up wearing it a lot and sometimes I find myself persuaded to use it or buy clothes that are purple.

10. What is your family situation? Do you have any pets? I am currently living at home (see a previous SP11 response) I have a percheron/thoroughbred horse named Dee. She lives 10 minutes away. I will be moving to a new house/barn sometime soon, in the same area, and Dee will live with me then. I also live with my smooth Collie Daizzy, Daizzy's sister (a rough collie), and my parents cat Dusty.

11. Do you wear scarves, hats, mittens or ponchos? I wear scarves and mittens ALL the time in winter. I wear baseball hats a lot and wool hats or headbands in the winter. I don't have a poncho, but I have considered making myself one.

12. What is/are your favorite item/s to knit? I really enjoyed knitting an amanda hat. I also made a wrap (Wisp) and plan to make a shawl. (Although this one ended up being smaller and more like a scarf.) I have enjoyed making mittens, washcloths, and scarves so far... Thinking about socks sometime soon. I have a few bags on my to-do list. I don't have too many completed projects so I don't feel like I have a "favorite" yet. I really loved making my Wisp. It was my first lace project and I loved the mohair. Even though it was simple, I still enjoyed making it. Liked it so much I have some Knitpicks Alpaca Cloud to make another one. At this point, if I'm willing to make something again, I'd call it a favorite.

13. What are you knitting right now? Currently I'm participating in NaKniSweMo and knitting a February Lady Sweater. I have made some winter goals which include working on my first sweater as well as trying to knock out the high amount of almost finished WIP's that I have hanging around. Want to finish my mom's mitts soon. I just finished a streak of baby bibs and burp cloths.

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

15. Do you prefer straight or circular needles? Bamboo, aluminum, plastic? I think each type has it's place. I have a fair amount of bamboo straights in my collection and lately I have been adding both aluminum and plastic circulars to my collection. I am preferring circular over straight these days when I have the option. (Knitpicks options and random others)

16. Do you own a yarn winder and/or swift? I recently purchased a winder (YAY for lovely center pull balls) Naturally, I've put a swift on my want list.

17. How old is your oldest UFO? Clogs (OCS... one clog syndrome)

18. What is your favorite holiday? What winter holiday do you observe? It would have to be Christmas. I love finding/making just the right gift for someone.

19. Is there anything that you collect? Yes, I have a fair amount of books ranging from horseback riding/instruction to cooking/baking to animal rights to various "fun" novels and of course Knitting books. I collect Miles Davis books and music. (I became obsessed with him and Jazz when I played flute and trumpet and sang during high school.) I also collect the little shell "animals" that touristy shops sell everywhere. I have probably 6 different animals from my travels. It's sort of an "incidental" collection, I can't stop myself from buying them when I see new animals. I also have a collection of Painted Ponies.

20. Any books, yarns, needles or patterns out there you are dying to get your hands on? What knitting magazine subscriptions do you have? Thanks to Ravelry, my books are mostly posted there. I think there are several missing because they haven't been posted on Rav yet. I am trying to decide which magazine to get. I keep swapping between Knit.1 and Knitscene. As far as patterns that I would like, they are in my sidebar (along with the free patterns that I want to knit.) I noted if I have them or need them.

21. Are there any new techniques you'd like to learn? Off the top of my head: Learning long tail cast on's. Would like to try toe up socks, maybe try two at a time socks now that I have the book.

22. Are you a sock knitter? What are your foot measurements? Not yet, (see #21). In general I am a size 8. Will post measurements soon. (I know I said I'd do it earlier, twice actually. I will, promise!)

23. When is your birthday? June 3rd

24. Are you on Ravelry? If so, what's your ID? Ponyknit

NaKniSweMo Update... and AACS Q4

2008-11-13T07:12:00.000-08:00

Good progress this weekend, but not nearly as much as I anticipated. Life happens. I've since knit more, will post a newer update soon.

Baby Umbilical Hat Partial Frog

may just become a complete Riiiiiip...

AACS Q4
Check out the blogs of some of the other participants, and find someone you have something in common with - post a little on your blog about the common interests or loves you both share and tell us about them! Don't forget to leave a comment on their blog saying hello!

I stumbled upon Jill's blog and found that she had just recently frogged a completed project too. Her project was MUCH larger than mine. As her blog post says, it did take a lot of courage! Another thing in common, she also enjoys knitting dishcloths.

Final Library Enhancement... for now... and AACS Q3

2008-11-07T06:07:00.000-08:00

Playing catch up with this one. Franklin's book arrived the weekend before I went away. I'm sure I can find good use for the free gift bag (Included with pre-order from Interweave) over the holidays!

Amazing Autumn Coffee Swap Question #3
What is it that you love about your first cup of the day? Are you a daily drinker? How do you take yours? Tell us how you love to enjoy your first cup!
I love the aroma while brewing, and then the taste, once I've poured a cup. I'm a daily drinker. I take mine with just a touch of skim milk. Occasionally I will drink a mocha or something, but my daily cup is usually pretty simple with just a touch of skim milk.

Also, a quick update on my Minor Casualty. I emailed KnitPicks and they are replacing my cable! Woot!

NaKniSweMo

2008-11-06T08:24:00.000-08:00

I incidentally* swatched for my February Lady Sweater on November 2nd while on vacation. I had been thinking about joining the madness called NaKniSweMo (Knit a sweater in the month of November), but wasn't sure if I could get enough knitting time to finish before December. I joined, so we'll just have to find out. (*Yes, Moriah, I believe this is partly your fault.)

OTN: February Lady Sweater in Cascade 220 Heathers. Progress pic's coming. Just got in from vacation yesterday. Made good progress past the first button hole on the plane home. Just haven't had time to take a pic yet.

Progress pic of Baby Umbilical Hat before I left for vacation last week.

Finished: Baby Umbilical Hat
Knitted most of the hat while on the plane on my way to vacation. Once I arrived in Florida I saw that I had dropped some stitches and decided to just rip back a bit. Where I picked my stitches back up I managed to twist a few stitches and it resulted in a not so pretty mid section of the hat. I'm considering ripping and knitting backwards (Towards the bottom of the hat, instead of as the pattern is written towards the crown) to relax my OCD. If I only wasn't such a perfectionist! Once I do that, I will post a FO pic ;)

Dish Rag Tag The Sequel Finale! AACS Q2

2008-11-01T19:01:00.000-07:00

Dish Rag Tag is officially over. Everyone has finished the race! I had a fun time again this year, and enjoyed being Captain this time. Can't wait for next year!

Go team Dishin' It Out! Not only did we finish, but we got 4th!!!

The lovely dishcloth that I received is from Heidi from TX.

Thanks Emily, the super swap host, for the awesome tea and adorable card!

Amazing Autumn Coffee Swap Q2

With Halloween coming up this Friday, tell us what you think of when you think of Halloween! Do you love it? Hate it? See it as a sign of Fall? Are you a total sucker for candy and little kids in cute costumes?

I love fall, so I love Halloween. I'm not really into dressing up, but if I have a party or something I will go in costume. On halloween I love seeing kids trick-or-treating and having a good time. Yes, I am definitely a sucker for candy and little kids in cute costumes.

Next Post: Knitting evidence, maybe even a FO!

KnitPicks Haul

2008-10-27T07:09:00.000-07:00

After last weeks casualty, I needed to order more cables. I'm always running out of my small 24" cables. I also got a pack of 60" cables too. While I was shopping I also found several other items to add to my cart in order to qualify for free shipping.

After filling out this questionnaire I realized I'm always needing more size 6 needles for my KnitPicks Options set. I'm sure I could use even more, but this should help. I also thought that this Lint Shaver would come in handy this winter.

I couldn't resist these Harmony buttons.
I am in love with all things Harmony. The only reason you don't see any Harmony Straights here is because they were sold out in the sizes I wanted when I ordered. (US 6-8's.)
Couldn't resist this Wool of the Andes Bulky in Wine (for a Juliet).
Not a great pic with it still bagged, I'll get better photos once it's opened. With knowing that I still have a February Lady Sweater to start and finish first, I wanted to keep it safe and sealed ;)
The most anticipated purchase, a wool winder! Now I can wind and wind and wind to my hearts content. I just love how it forms perfect yarn cakes every time! I decided I wanted to try my new winder out and wound the Cashmerino for my Umbilical cord hat (from Stitch 'N Bitch) and one skein of Malabrigo lace. I don't know how I survived without one before!
Now that I've got a winder, I've got a swift on my list.

WIP: I casted on for a Baby Umbilical Hat. My newly acquired Magic Looping skills are coming in handy. (I'll definitely be taking this with me to Florida.)

Minor Casualty, Luxury Library Enhancement, and a FO

2008-10-24T09:22:00.000-07:00

I was trying to finish another Baby Genius Burp Cloth and then this happened;

Look a BIT closer

EEK! My cable pulled out from the screw that connects it to my KnitPicks Options needle. I promptly fixed that problem by logging into KnitPicks and ordering some more. I frequently use the small cables and was needed some more anyway. Unfortunately I bought them just over a year so they are not covered under warranty. Stay tuned to see what other goodies I put in my shopping cart. I may have been encouraged by the $50 order free shipping policy, obviously!

Everything worked out in the end. I finished the Burp Cloth. Whew! I just made sure to BO really slowly.
One of the babies that is receiving this burp cloth and my blue bib has already arrived. I will post a pic once it's ready to ship out. I am tempted to cast on an Umbilical Hat before it goes into the mail. I had bought this cashmerino for a Branching Out Scarf but I think it has now spoken, and wants to be something for baby. How can I argue?

Also, another book arrived fresh off of the press! It completes the collection. (I'm such a Geek.)
I loved the scarf in the middle of the pic. I don't have the book with me right now, but I'll add the name if I get the chance later.
I'm taking a vacation next week to Florida to go and see my nephews, niece, and my brother and SIL again. Is it normal to be worrying about what to pack to knit and not have put one thought into what I'm bringing otherwise?

I signed up for SP13. They are offering 3 different price levels this time. I couldn't stay away... Can you? Registration is STILL open!

Amazing Autumn Coffee Swap Q1

2008-10-22T10:29:00.000-07:00

What makes a "Fall day" for you? How do you know it's here, and what do you love about the weather, the scenery, or something else that makes Autumn lovely?

For me, Fall is crisp air, leaves changing color and falling to the grass. I like feeling a bit of a chill in the air in the morning or evening. To me it means that the beautiful foliage is coming, and that fall is here. I think of horseback riding, trail riding, or even the squeezing in the last few horse shows of the year. (This coming weekend, I'll be coaching my last show of the season.) I also think of fall foods, like hot apple crisp straight out of the oven. (I've already made one this year so far!) Things just wouldn't be the same without fall in New England, don't forget about the football!

GO PATS!

Next Post: Updates!

Amazing Autumn Coffee Swap Questionnaire

2008-10-14T19:01:00.000-07:00

Sign-ups close Oct. 15th

About Your Yarn Passion

1. Do you knit, crochet, or do both? When did you first learn? Knit. Coming up on 3 years. Haven't crocheted yet.

2. Do you like using a particular type of needle or hook? (wood, metal, straight, circular) Is there something you've been wanting to try, or a particular size you always seem to be short on? I use my 6 and 7's a lot. I tend to have to decide which project that can go without needles for the moment.

3. What kind of projects do you enjoy making? Any types you just haven't ever gotten into as much as others? I enjoy making dishcloths, scarves, mittens, shawls, bibs, burp cloths, basically everything I've made so far.

4. What's on your needles\hook right now? What's your oldest UFO (unfinished object)? Currently OTN I have another Burp Cloth, Mom's mitts, So-Called Scarf, Airy Scarf, and Fiber trends felted clogs. Clogs are by the oldest, they've been on the needles for over 2 years.

5. If you were going on vacation tomorrow, what project(s) would travel with you? I like to take at least one portable project when traveling along with at least one more. I fear running out of something to knit, or having free time without any knitting, so I typically take plenty of choices with me on vacation.

6. What are your favorite types of yarns? Any you're allergic too, or just hate working with? Anything in particular you've been dying to try? I love working with Malabrigo, CoolSpun Cottons, and various Mohairs. I love trying other peoples favorites (that's how I found CoolSpun.) No allergies, I dislike novelty yarns (eyelash, etc.).

7. What sort of colors do you love in yarns? Brights? Pastels? More muted colors? Variegated? Are there any you can't stand? I love blue, yellow and pink. I do have a thing for heathers and variegated colors such as in Malabrigo.

Your Coffee Passion

1. Do you prefer caffeinated or not? Leaded. Seriously.

2. Whole bean or ground? For what type of pot or press? Either, Whole beans are nice, but I often end up buying ground. I make my coffee by the pot. Considering buying a Tassimo. I do appreciate every cup brewed fresh, and I do make it for just myself... it seems like a good idea.

3. What types of roasts do you enjoy? Are you more the light and lively or dark and robust type? Medium to rich/bold works for me. I dislike decaf or flavored coffees. Anything that is a roast or traditional flavor is what I like. I typically like house blends or breakfast blends.

4. How do you 'take' your coffee? Creamers? Sweetener? Other add ins? Skim milk only. Not really into add ins, unless I'm spoiling myself with a cafe mocha and adding chocolate or something.

5. That first morning cup - is it about the taste, or the caffeine? Taste wakes me up, caffeine keeps me awake ;)

6. Do you enjoy going out to coffee shops like Starbucks? What are some of your favorites? Occasionally I will have a Cafe Mocha or Mochacchino for a special treat. I am open to try anything in the traditional realm of flavor. I do drink Starbucks frozen Frappucchino's that are flavored (Java Chip Light).

7. You've just made the perfect cup of coffee - is it in a thick mug, or a thinner cup? Where would you sit to drink it? Thick mug. I like to sip, and I find if I'm having a cup at home I have to use something that keeps my coffee hot for a long time so that I get the chance to finish it before it is cold. I'm often taking it with me in a travel mug that seals tight on the top, to keep my coffee hot longer.

8. You're enjoying that perfect cup, and have a magic cabinet in your kitchen - when you open it, magically, your favorite treats will appear to enjoy alongside the coffee - what are they? Are they sweet? Crunchy? Soft and flaky? Depends on the day. I like the occasional treat of biscotti or chocolate with my cup of coffee. Often I have my coffee with breakfast and it can be a granola bar or bagel with cream cheese.

All about YOU!

1. Do you have other hobbies like spinning or scrapbooking? I make stitch markers.

2. Do you collect anything? Yes, I have a fair amount of books ranging from horseback riding/instruction to cooking/baking to animal rights to various "fun" novels and of course Knitting books. I collect Miles Davis books and music. (I became obsessed with him and Jazz when I played flute and trumpet and sang during high school.) I also collect the little shell "animals" that touristy shops sell everywhere. I have probablly 6 different ones from my travels. It's sort of an "incidental" collection, I can't stop myself from buying them when I see new animals. I'll have to get a pic of them. I also have a collection of "Tra il of Painted Ponies." (handpainted horse statues, I linked in case you are curious)

3. What is your favorite part of Autumn? Colors of the beautiful foliage, crisp air...

4. What sort of scents do you enjoy? Any difference in what you like for your house versus what you like for your body? Love lavender and rose scents. I love fresh/clean scents in my home more than on myself.

5. Are you allergic to anything? Yes, anything heavily perfumed/fragranced, but nothing food/beverage.

6. Are you on Ravelry? What's your ID? Yes, Ponyknit.

7. How would you spend an ideal fall afternoon/day? Head out to the barn!

Library Enhancement and Actual Knitting Content

2008-10-13T07:13:00.000-07:00

There has been a steady stream of books arriving on my doorstep... First it was anticipation of this book, then this, and now THIS. (I can't say this is the end of my library enhancement for now, because I am waiting for two more books as they are released, stay tuned for those.)

Yarn for February Lady Sweater
I chose Cascade 220 after seeing the overwhelming number of 189 Feb. Lady Sweaters made in either Heather (106) and Classic (83). I chose a navy heather because I liked the color variations.

That's one thing to check off of my Fall Knitting Goals checklist!

I have taken forever to post this little FO:
It's another Mason-Dixon Bib for another of the pending babies.
Here's the current WIP:
I think this picture is a bit old, I've knit more on it since. I hope to finish this soon. Once I finish this second Mason-Dixon Baby Genius Burp Cloth I will post the set together and show the button in a bit more detail. Here's a picture of the cute ladybug buttons in the meantime.

UPDATED Fall Knitting Goals:

1. Finish other baby gift set. (Bib completed, Burp cloth OTN)
2. Start my first shawl. (Notice the key word, start) (Forest Canopy Shawl, Simple Lace Shawl).
3. Purchase yarn and make progress on first sweater. (Most likely a February Lady Sweater.) (Yarn Purchased!)
4. Work on more projects that have been OTN for far too long.
5. Something for Amazing Autumn Coffee Swap (Registration closes Oct. 15th)

Deadline: December 21st

GO Sox!!!

Team Dishin' It Out Races to 4th Place!

2008-10-01T07:24:00.000-07:00

YAY! Go team Dishin' It Out!

We not only completed the race (which is great in my book to choreograph 12 knitters, actually 13 (counting Emily the wonderful host who was both the starting and finish line), with one box, pattern, and handknit dishcloth at each stop all around the U.S.) but we finished 4th out of 24 teams!

Last week I made my first purchase at this lovely site... maybe you've heard of it... Ravelry...

I've been stalking the Rip and Frog pint glasses for some time now. And who could resist the Bob pin? I borrowed my SP12 downstreams yarn to model this shot, the white worked perfectly. Also, 50% of all pin proceeds go to Special Olympics!Close-up of Bobicus Maximus Limited Edition Pin

New Swap: Now that all of my swaps are finishing up it's just about time to start a new one :)

Just registered in the Amazing Autumn Coffee Swap. I participated last time around and had a great time. Sign ups open till the Oct. 15th.

Final SP12 Package and a Book

2008-10-01T05:50:00.000-07:00

This round of SP12 flew by! I've been receiving awesome packages from my upstream since June. Being the last package of the swap, I found out who had been behind all of the packages and spoiling me. My partner was Shannon.

First I found a package with a lovely yellow bag that Shannon knit (and felted) with an adorable blue button keeping it closed. Next, I opened another wrapped package with two lovely skeins of Silky Merino (Mmmmm Malabrigo) with a shawl pin and a packet of Soak (which must have fell somewhere in between the Malabrigo for both pictures). Then I opened a package full of a yellow hand knit bath mitt and hand towel with a sprig of lavender (from her garden!), a stick of lavender lotion, lavender lip balm in a pouch, and lavender oatmeal soap. Everything smells soo great!

She not only sent me all of the above, but once I opened the bag that she made me, it was chock full of all sorts of treats. Dog treats for Daizzy, cat treats for Dusty, candy for me, and even horse treats for Dee. (I've never given Dee beets, I bet she'll love 'em.) Last, but not least, (I was directed to open it last) I opened a beautiful card.

I was so very spoiled, thank you so much! I will think of you when I use the hand knits! The colors are so beautiful! I can't wait to try all of the lavender gifts. I have always been a fan of Goat's milk lotion, I can't wait to try everything else. I have really sensitive skin and I think these products will be great. Head on over to The A Page-In-Thyme shop, I know I will! Thanks again Shannon!
I mentioned in a previous post that I had bought something for myself when I purchased a gift for the winner of the Greatest American Dog pool on Rav and didn't want to post it until she received hers. I bought Barknknit a copy of 2-At-a Time socks (Melissa Morgan-Oakes) and Knitting without Tears (EZ). I had just recently bought myself my first 2 EZ books (and was happy to do that for someone else), and I had been eyeing 2-At-a Time Socks so I bought myself a copy also.

A lot of other updates... will make separate posts!

Final Summer of Yarn Package Received and Fall Knitting Goals

2008-09-23T13:39:00.000-07:00

My third and final package from the Summer of Yarn swap arrived!
It was packed with all sorts of great treats. My Upstream partner Heather, HSailorMoon, did an excellent job shopping! This package had a gorgeous skein of Mano's, a lovely seashell tea light holder, a journal, cute post-it's, adorable stickers, seashells, Swedish fish, 6 skeins of Sugar 'N Cream with a Lily pattern book, and an appointment pad. I didn't own any Mano's, she picked out the perfect skein! I've also been eyeing the Lily pattern book for some of it's dishcloth patterns. Also, every knitter knows one can always use more cotton in my stash ;) Heather also knew I liked cute note pads and etc. The beach theme was perfect for me!

Here's a close-up of the gorgeous Mano's. Not sure what I'll make with it, but it may shift some of my new projects priorities!

I have really enjoyed this swap. I hope to participate again next time around. I am not in the Fall swap, but will keep my eye out for a winter one or etc. Thanks Heather, you were a great partner! All three of the packages were awesome!

My new Mason-Dixon book also arrived! After only a quick flip it looks as awesome as expected!

Here's a project that immediately caught my eye, Belinda.
I do believe Mohair is one of my weaknesses...

Because the first day of fall was Monday...

Summer Knitting Goals: (Complete/Incomplete)

1. Complete a burp cloth to gift with Bib DONE
2. Complete a square for something *top secret* (I will reveal later!) DONE
3. Complete another baby gift set (College Roommate due in Fall) WIP
4. Washcloth (or 2) for a Swap (Summer of Yarn, or also SP12 too if I have time) Modified and made my Dish Rag Tag cloth instead.
5. Start my first shawl. (Notice the key word, start) (Forest Canopy Shawl, Simple Lace Shawl).
6. Work on some more projects that have been OTN far too long. Worked on Mom's Mitts

I have started but not finished goal #3. I am almost done with the bib. Not sure what else I will make, another Baby Genius Burp cloth?
The one goal that I did not complete was #5. I blame it on the fact that I have no way to skein my yarn and did not want to hand wind that skein. I'm working on purchasing a yarn winder.

Because I was motivated by my summer goals I would like to propose some Fall Goals as well.

N.B. They may be modified if I decide to add any holiday knitting in the near future, but this is what I'm aiming for now.
This all was started by Skeins Her Way posting her own Summer knitting goals on her blog. I encourage anyone who is interested to post their knitting goals also. (Please comment here if you do!)

Fall Knitting Goals:

1. Finish other baby gift set.
2. Start my first shawl. (Notice the key word, start) (Forest Canopy Shawl, Simple Lace Shawl).
3. Purchase yarn and make progress on first sweater. (Most likely a February Lady Sweater.)
4. Work on more projects that have been OTN for far too long.
5. Something for Amazing Autumn Coffee Swap (Registration opens Oct. 1st)

Deadline: December 21st

Coming Next: Knitting content!

New Blog Gadgets

2008-09-11T07:16:00.001-07:00

Race is still going... Go Team Dishin' It Out! Keep up the pace! Get your needles ready Christy!
GAD:
I participated in Great American Dog pool over on Rav. The shows season ended, and surprisingly my team made it quite far, despite personality/training conflicts. The winner was BarknKnit. Her package is winging it's way to her as I write this. I may blog what it is once she's received it.

Swap Updates:
Summer of Love Swap has ended. Final package has been received by my downstream partner. My upstream partner has said that my package is on the way. I am patiently stalking my mailbox for her package and also the new Mason Dixon book from the ladies at Mason-Dixon Knitting. Anyone else get it yet? I preordered on Amazon. I've heard rave reviews! They posted a cute bag pattern over on their blog to celebrate.

SP12 almost over. Runs until Sept. 31st. Currently gathering final parts of my downstreams package.

Can't wait to "meet" my swap partners, both upstream and downstream!

Two new NEAT blog gadgets added to my toolbar.

Follower:
Had been toying with moving over to Google Reader from Bloglines, and this program was the extra push for me. (Nothing against Bloglines, just want to try the other format and etc. at Google Reader to see what I liked better.) Follower is new to Blogger. Neat idea. Click on the button on the toolbar to check it out. Here's an article on Blogger about it. Your feeds on Google Reader mark you as a follower on other people webpages. To me it's like having a posse... a knitting blog posse. ;)

Blogged:
Another way to find new blogs.

OTN: Another Baby Bib from Mason-Dixon's first book. It's off of my Summer Knitting Goal list.* Haven't had much time to knit this summer. I've only had time to work on the bib a few rows at a time!!!

*Will post a Summer knitting wrap-up soon, as the last day of summer is Sept. 22nd!

Dish Rag Tag Half-Way Checkpoint!

2008-09-05T14:16:00.000-07:00

Just a quick post to cheer on team Dishin' It Out. Go team GO! I can't believe it, but we're already past the half-way point! Hopefully our mailing strategy and speedy turn around will help us to settle on the top of the pack. Keep up the great work ladies!Not much knitting to speak of. Hopefully that will change soon!
Thought you may enjoy seeing Dee and I at our last show. We did well. It was her first traveling show since her injury last year. She is doing so well that she is making progress in her training again. I now treasure each and every ride since she was injured.

SP12 Surprise, SP12 Questions #11 and 12

2008-08-28T09:28:00.000-07:00

I got this in the mail the other day... It's a postcard from my SP12 spoiler.
Thanks go out to my SP12 spoiler for brightening my day!

SP12 Question of the Week #11
What's the best thing you've ever received in the mail/post?
I can't say that I can think of something specific. I love getting stuff in the mail and I love surprises. I've enjoyed many care packages, swap packages, gifts, and etc.

SP12 Question Of the Week #12

I’m sure most of us have a proudest moment when it comes to knitting. A project or technique that you’ve tackled and completed beautifully. What is your proudest knitting moment?? I still consider myself a "newbie" in terms of techniques but I was proud of the Purple Purl Scarf, MultiDirectional Diagonal Scarf, Triple Grrr Lion Washcloths, that were gifted last year to a friend, my dad and my nephews. Each time it was nice to see that they enjoyed their gifts. I enjoyed sharing my knitting with each of them.

And on the flip side? What is the one thing that you can’t get right? What is that one project that you’ve never been able to complete? Or that you did complete but then hid away instantly because it was too embarrassing? I don't really have anything in that category... just yet ;) I guess if you count something lingering OTN, my Fiber Trends Felted Clogs. I have one mostly done. I should just finish them so I can wear them and free up their needles!

Tagged!

2008-08-22T07:30:00.000-07:00

Whee I was tagged! The race has begun! That means it was my turn to receive a box with dish rag cotton, a pattern and some goodies. It was my turn to knit a dish rag as fast as possible and pass on the pattern and some goodies to the next team member.

Being an excited captain for team Dishin' It Out in Dish Rag Tag (the Sequel) this time around, I figured I'd post something to walk participants through the race. There are several veterans from last years race on my team, as well as several who didn't participate last time. Emily has done an awesome job explaining, but I figured it wouldn't hurt to try and explain the process in other words also. If anyone sees anything that is incorrect, please let me know.

Once you've been tagged (i.e. the person before you has received the box and logged in to DRT to report it) you will be notified when you login to DRT. Priority mail states that it can take 1-3 days to arrive at it's destination. Note: If you log in before you've physically received the box, wait to check off that you've received it, as not to goof up the neat widget that Emily has set up.

Now is the time where you hurry and wait. I'd suggest to have already picked up your goodies and dishrag cotton before your tagged so that your ready. But if you haven't stocked up, do so now.

Emily sent me a skein of Sugar 'N Cream with measuring cups, candy, and a recipe along with the Official Dish Rag Tag The Sequel Pattern and Official Rules

Once your box arrives, remember to treat it gently. Emily has posted this on her forums, and I've also seen the boxes far into the race. They go through a beating. Make sure you cut the tape and resist the urge to just rip it off. The tape works much better as a buffer on the box instead of removing pieces of the cardboard with it each time it is opened which instead weakens the box.

Now that you've received the box you can log back in and report when you received it and you will be prompted to select who you are mailing to. Carefully select who you are mailing to, and you will be presented with that persons mailing address. (*Important* make sure you know who you are mailing to. I am fairly certain that once you select one person you will only be able to see their address. If you choose incorrectly, this could goof up your teams selected mailing order considerably.) You can print the mailing address straight from there and avoid any errors when handwriting (which was what I did and recommend) if you prefer. This will tag the next member of your team letting them know that they will be receiving the box soon.

Could not capture the detail in the cloth, but the pattern is much more visible in person. It still keeps the pattern a secret for while the race is going on.

Now is the time to take out your sharpened knitting needles and knit faster than you have ever knit before, while following Emily's pattern (included in the box) with the dish rag cotton that you received in the box.

Once you have cast off you can take pictures, as I did, or proceed to packing your box for the next leg of the race. You get to keep the dish rag that was shipped to you in the box, along with any goodies inside.

You must include:
1. The pattern sheet
2. The rule sheet
3. A skein of dishrag cotton
4. The dish rag that you have just completed.
5. Any other small goodies that you want to include (I recommend candy, it keeps the
sugar high going. I sent a second skein of cotton in my package. Only one is required.)

Carefully seal the box and attach the label. (I like to sign and/or decorate the box before I ship it out, but it's up to you and your team.)

Head to the post office. You want to mail the box at your local U.S.P.S using Priority Mail with delivery confirmation. *Important* you will disqualify your team if you don't follow this rule.

Once you have mailed your package be sure to hold on to the delivery confirmation stub. You can then log in to DRT and you will be prompted to report when the you mailed the box. You will also be prompted to enter the delivery confirmation number for tracking purposes.

Now you can get back to work or doing whatever it was when your package arrived before you dropped everything to knit. Remember to log into the forums to cheer on the next legs of the race!

P.S. You'll notice that I haven't received a dish rag yet. Emily changed things a bit from last year and is sending the captains (who are all receiving the box straight from Emily and were the first leg of the race) the dish rag that is sent to her at the end of the race.

Let the race begin! Summer of Yarn Package #2 and SP12 Question #10

2008-08-14T10:42:00.000-07:00

Dish Rag Tag has almost begun! I was assigned as the captain for team #20, called Dishin' In Out, so I'm sure I'll be posting about our progress frequently ;) The host, Emily, mails the packages on Aug. 15th and it goes to captains first, to each of the 11 remaining team members, and back to Emily across the finish line. Let the race begin!

I got a great second package from my Summer of Yarn spoiler. I had been house/barn sitting for the past week and couldn't get my camera in the same room with the box. It finally worked out last night.
She sent me four skeins of Bute, two felt book marks, a beautifully etched stone, a zippered pouch which will most likely reside in one of my to-go bags for stitch markers and other small necessities, "A" post-its, and a cute mug with a little bear inside. Also, 3 chapstick's (I could never have too many flavors, I am addicted!) and hand lotion which were both inside a clear cube which could be used to show off some lovely yarn afterward.

The yarn is lovelier in person, as expected ;) My spoiler told me they found it in a store that sells different exotic yarns. The blue is so beautiful and the yarn is soo squooshy! I'm sure if I saw it somewhere I would have picked it up for myself.

Here's a close-up of the stone. I really like it. I have to find a place to keep it where I'll see it every day. It's so cheery. Underneath it is the zippered pouch that I'm sure will be put to use soon. I've already tried the lotion, it's awesome!

Thanks for another awesome package! Your doing an awesome job picking out things for me, They're awesome!

SP12 Question of the Week #10
What Olympic event would best describe you knitting/knitting style?
I would have to say Diving. I like to have things just right, and I typically jump right into a project. Lately I have been trying to finish up the ones that are already OTN, but I find myself casting on for something new quite often.

OTN: Speaking of my cast-on issues, I casted on another Baby Bib from Mason Dixon from #3 of my Summer Knitting Goal list.
Peeking at my list made me realize I've got a bit more to go. First day of fall looks to be September 22nd.

Blue Italics indicates DONE

Bold indicates in progress

1. Complete a burp cloth to gift with Bib I made last week. DONE
2. Complete a square for something *top secret* (I will reveal later!) DONE
3. Complete another baby gift set (College Roommate due in Fall). Casted on Bib
*4. Washcloth (or 2) for a Swap (Summer of Yarn, or also SP12 too if I have time).
5. Start my first shawl. (Notice the key word, start) (Forest Canopy Shawl, Simple Lace Shawl).
6. Work on some more projects that have been OTN far too long. (I have done this, but still have projects OTN that could use some attention)

*I joined Dish Rag Tag after making these goals. I wanted to make a washcloth for a swap. May substitute the cloth I will make for my leg of the race for #4.

Second SP12 Package and Catching Up on SP12 Questions (#8 and 9)

2008-08-06T12:09:00.000-07:00

I got my Second SP12 package!

She found this book on my Amazon wishlist... sneaky sneaky... She also made me a book thong to help me keep my place!
My spoiler picked out a lovely skein from Cherry Tree Hill. She sent me the pattern for Juliet that I've been thinking of making for quite a while. (I thought it would be a good pattern for my first sweater.) Also I got a lovely smelling lavender sachet for my stash, highlighters in my favorite colors, and some Jelly Belly's along with a beautiful card with another cute poem inside.

Close-up of the Cherry Tree Hill, I can't wait to work with it, it's sooo yummy!

Here's a close-up of the beautiful beading. She's quite the artist, whoever my spoiler is! Thanks go out to my SP12, your doing an awesome job spoiling me! Thanks for another great package!

My lab just moved on Friday so I've been a * bit * busy. Also, this coming weekend is the first horse show of the season that I'm riding my horse in since her injury last season. In this craziness I managed to fall behind enough where I have two SP12 questions of the week to post. Whew!

SP12 Question # 8
What is your favorite supper for a hot summer evening?
A nice and fresh salad. Once it gets hot I don't want to eat anything heavy!

SP12 Question #9
Have you ever entered your knitting (or anything else) in the fair? Would you ever consider it?
Not yet.. but maybe some day. When I was really little I used to enter the doll carriage parades that my town held near the Fourth of July. One year I won a huge trophy. That's as close as competing into a fair as I can remember.

Had soo much fun last year, had to play again! Sign-ups may still be open.

More Kenny, SP12 Question #7 and Contest Wrap-Up

2008-07-30T20:17:00.000-07:00

Just because I had so many responses from my previous Kenny stalking, I figured these photos may be of interest to a few of you. This years tour was...

(yes, he wore Red Sox stuff ALL night! ;) )

This weekend was one of my favorite weekends of the year, Kenny weekend! I've been going every year with a good friend for 3 years now. This year Kenny had Gary Allan, LeAnn Rimes, Sammy Hagar, and new dad Keith Urban with him.

Here's LeAnn in a Brady Jersey

During Kenny's performance he even had some Patriot and Red Sox stars join him up on stage! The concert was held at Gillette stadium in Foxboro, MA (for those of you who are not from the area, it's the home of the Patriots!)

If you look close, you can see Vinatieri and Wakefield in the group.

(sorry, gotta love random hands in photos.)

As always, it proved to be a great time.

SP12 Question #7:

What is (are) your favorite place(s) to knit? I knit everywhere. I am most comfortable on a comfortable couch somewhere.

What supplies (besides yarn & needles) make the setting perfect for knitting? I always keep my mini bamboo crochet hook, stitch markers, little scissors, and a yarn needle nearby.

Contest Wrap-Up

Prizes from my Belated 1st Blogiversary 101st post hybrid contest have been mailed out. Congrats to the winners!

I asked for people entering the contest to tell me about their favorite knitting or sewing projects. I received a lot of great ideas through this contest and I wanted to share the great ideas. Maybe they will inspire your next project! (I linked to Rav if a specific pattern was mentioned and I could find it.)

Bags: Felted, Market Bag

For Baby: Baby Surprise Jacket, Baby Hats, Knitted Babes

Hats: Mini Ruffled Pillbox Hat, El Capitan Hat

Mitts: Fingerless Mitts

Other: Socks, Cowls, Dishcloths, Headband, Fiber Trends Felted Clogs

Shawls: Icarus, Feather and Fan Comfort Shawl, Triangle Shawls

Scarves: Branching Out Scarf, Diamondback Scarf, Flame Scarf, Cable Scarves

Sweaters: Wicked, Kauni Cardigan