unraveledagain

Harriet Hargrave workshop

2011-09-10T08:40:00.001-07:00

I was fortunate to be able to take a Harriet Hargrave workshop at Quilting is Happiness in McKinney recently. I wasn't sure about what I was in for....but I had a pretty good idea it would be intense. Harriet is a wonderful teacher and very passionately serious about quilting and teaching. She teaches Heirloom Quilting on a machine as well as piecing techniques. This class was on the quilting aspect of her knowledge. I haven't done any freehand quilting at all, so it was a huge eye opener for me. I learned that I will need to practice....A LOT.....to be able to free hand. I like this. It means you can't just pick it up, but you have to work at it. Challenging. Yes? Yes. Right now my quilting looks like a drunk trying to mend a sock on a crummy sewing machine. Yeah.......almost disheartening......but I am going to try. And try and try.... This is Harriet with one of the students and one of her glorious quilts.

One of the things I love about taking classes is the people I get to meet. I don't tend to meet a lot of quilters in my daily life so this is nice for me. I met some wonderful quilters in this class. Not only great quilters but genuinely nice supportive people. Hi Chris! :0)

We also worked on stitching in the ditch a bit. Here are my placemats getting that technique. I had no idea I was doing it wrong. This does look a lot better than my previous work. I also learned I should not meander on a walking foot...........yes. I actually did this. hahaha I was wondering the whole while "why in the hell do people do this?" Yeah......so much for self teaching. It is easier to do it freehand. Not that it looks better at this point....just saying easier than the alternative.

Now....can you guys be brutally honest with me? Would you hate these? My fear is that I have no style and no idea they are actually hideous. I think many crafts people probably wonder this. You get into it and all of these new techniques and fabric draw you in and pretty soon...WHAM!! You are wearing ugly quilted coats that shouldn't even be in public because you like the fabric or technique, think it looks great and you have no idea you look like a Bozo reject. I am serious. You wouldn't let me go out like that, would you? Honest. Brutal. I can take it........

And this is a top finished a few weeks ago. I think I will also ditch quilt this and maybe branch out slightly and do a pattern within the blocks....hmmm. We will see......

Why do they call it CATnip?

2011-07-21T16:25:00.001-07:00

Cuz it grows cats!!! I think this one's ready to pick....maybe a little over ripe.

Shhhh, I don't think the recipient reads my blog...so I am going to take a chance and post these after all. I know I said I wouldn't......... You know, I can't keep Christmas presents til Christmas if they are already made, either. Makes it hard to do handmade gifts. Probably a godsend for my friends. "Oh look.....ANOTHER handmade gift", all the while thinking....."I wonder if she ever sees these things at Goodwill?" And yet...I still keep trying. Here are the tops of some placemats and a table runner to match. Still need to be quilted. Not Christmas presents....I am too smart for myself this year. Just because gifts. Just-because-I-would-like-to-torture-you-and-see-if-you-still-have-them-next-time-I-visit-you gifts Beware if your kitchen is blue.........She has no idea I am doing this anyway....so she might not even guess it was hers in the off chance she ever checks this. She might even hope they aren't hers....muahhahahahah!!!

Even though I have quilting on the brain I am still finding time to do a little knitting here and there and some spinning......when I am not lurking on the net for items I am stalking indefinitely.....but that's another story..........there is probably a reality show for people like me..... oh yeah. There is...it's called Hoarders. Haven't seen one with only fiber related items yet.........but I'm going to THAT garage sale, baby!

Hillswick Lumber

Kai-mei socks from one of Cookie A's books.

Finished stuff and not so finished stuff.

2011-07-13T13:09:00.000-07:00

Bayerische-check.

Pomatomus-check.

These have been on the needles so long I don't even remember start dates.. Ooops. But they are done now...just in time for 103 degrees today. Whew! I was afraid my feet might get cold.

I am also working on a couple of quilted presents now. One group goes to Germany (can't divulge any more info than this) and one for my mom... of which you have already seen the beginnings. I think I best not post any more pics here now lest she see them. ;0) I am dying to post them, tho.....I may just keep them on Flickr for now, so if you are on Rav you know how to find that. Sorry Mom. :0D But the top is almost finished and now begins border fun. Frame or flying geese? One yellow or many yellows? Decisions decisions.....

And this little guy is a Mockingbird that comes and knocks on my studio windows every now and then. I give him water

......I am so trained by birds. Especially this one.

A little rain, a lot of hail

2011-06-22T08:34:00.001-07:00

Wow! We wanted rain, we got it...and a little more. It hailed for at least 30 minutes straight. I have never seen a hail core last that long......but, at least it was mostly small here. A few minutes north they had hail that was golfball sized. Windows out, car windshields broken. This pool was sparkling clear blue the day before. Blech. But that's Texas for you.

I am now working on one of my mom's Christmas presents. I had to ask what she would prefer in a quilt....so no surprise there. She asked for a "happy yellow king size quilt". I am thinking a bit traditional with blocks and sort of scrappy but an overall feeling of sunshiney yellow. I can't decide if they should be on point or straight out. I will add white sashings and plain yellow blocks between the sashings to further brighten the quilt. Then at least two borders. What do you think?

On point?

Or not?

Pennants or penance?

2011-06-17T17:19:00.000-07:00

This is it. :0) The Fassett Pennants Quilt that has been on my design wall for longer than I can tell you...well...I can, but then I'd be embarrassed. I changed the outside border just a bit and continued the inside border into it. I like the continuity of it as other designed border didn't do it for me. It seemed like an afterthought. I may put the prairie points on it after quilting but I am not sure right now. I do like the way they look, however, and it seems fitting. This is such an interesting design and colorway. It is going in the room where we spend the most time-probably a wall quilt and inspiration for finally decorating........

Done with the top

2011-06-08T05:44:00.000-07:00

So, we have one more class left in the Niemeyer Glacier Star class I have been taking. It has been a blast taking this class and learning better paper piecing techniques. In the past I have just tried to wing it. The results have been ok, but not something at which I'd like any other quilter to look too closely. heh BUT! I did learn a ton from winging it and now have a better understanding of the technique. "Oh, THAT"S what that add-a-quarter ruler is for....". I get it now. Now I am completely hooked on Niemeyer as well as several other designers I have researched a bit. Jacqueline Dejonge, Karen Stone...to name a couple. Kaffe I have always been crazy over. I am finishing up the pennants quilt top, finally. It's only been on my design wall for over a year. I like to think of it as my Penance Quilt. My first paper piecing and boy did I commit some sins on this one. I think it's why I have left it so long...haha Well, that and the border wasn't working. I think it must have been my copies. Anyway, I have figured a new border after hours of sitting in front of it and moving blocks around. Now, just to sew a few seams and the top is finito. Pics? Yeah, well....the old memory stick isn't giving this one up and my camera batteries are dead for a few more hours....pics to come in a bit. :0)

Spring is for Sewing

2011-03-27T08:56:00.000-07:00

It always seems that my desire for certain creative outlets is seasonal. All I can think of in fall is knitting. Anything. I just have to have a billion projects on the needles at all times and places in the fall. Winter brings more knitting and maybe a little quilting......but spring my desire to sew and quilt is full on. This being spring, I recently started another quilt class. This one is a Judy Neimeyer Technique of the Month class at Quilt Country taught by an amazing teacher, Eileen. She had to become Neimeyer teaching certified to teach the class-which means she studied with Judy and learned her tricks of the trade. Sure there are great instructions with the patterns...and if you follow VERY closely, you can probably manage quite well if you have had prior paper piecing experience. With Eileen's help, however, the process becomes a breeze and I have learned many other time and sanity saving tricks. We have 6 classes, one per month in which to complete 6 techniques that make up this quilt. It is called Glacier Star.

Technique 1.

This is the New Your Beauty technique. I have always loved these blocks, and now I feel comfortable in building them with ease.

Technique 2.

Geese in the Pond

I have also been able to complete another Amy Butler Modern Diaper Bag for a friend that is expecting. I saw this fabric online and could not resist it for her. She is a pretty hip kind of girl, so anything less than fashionable was out of the question.

The pattern is written pretty well for the most part, except for the pockets. I have NEVER understood these directions and never will. I had trouble with them last time, too. REALLY unclear. I read many reviews/blogs of people that had made it and their experiences were similar. In the end I just made sure there were bottle pockets on the ends and had to wing the rest to make it fit. Not stellar, but workable. Hope she like it. The baby is due any minute.

Some spinning....this is Crown Mountain Farm superwash merino. Love this stuff. I want to marry it....or maybe just make some socks.....a little less commitment.

Already October???

2010-10-09T11:37:00.000-07:00

Wow, I can't believe that September blew by so fast. Seems like the school year just started and now we are already deep into October. That can only mean one thing here. Texas State Fair!! A must for the bringing in of the fall. Corn dogs, weird fried food, great people watching...what more could you want? Whoohoo! Here are my entries this year.

It was fun to go and see how they were displayed. We are notified beforehand if we are ribbon winners, but the fun is to see where they are located. We went this year with a good friend, Nik and his mom. She is so funny and full of energy. She wore us out by the end of the day. Unfortunately, my allergies are never on good behavior in the fall and it was a pretty bad day for that. Not that it kept me away from my annual corn dog......but people were keeping their distance from me-snotty sneezing mess. Lovely.

I have a new project on the needles. Hanne Falkenberg's Diva. A very cool pattern. This is the first of her's that I have attempted and it is very different. I like it, though. And now that I am sick I have a little time to work on it. Yeah...I have the obligatory beginning of school bronchial mess. Always happens. I think it is my immune system getting revved again after not seeing so many kiddos over the summer and then going head on with all of those germs at once. Hand sanitizer my ass. Never worked for me.....ok. Back to nap time..........

A FO!!!!

2010-08-07T15:43:00.000-07:00

A hot and muggy summer.........no vacation........both of our backs going out........no a/c.........pool pump dying.......but in all honesty I can't remember happier summer in a very long time. :0) Isn't that funny? This was truthfully a wonderful and happy summer for us. I almost hate for it to end, but time to make some $$$ again, I guess. Happy summer everyone!

A couple of shots of my Rosebud Shetland Shawl. I finally finished her and blocked her today. It has taken me a year and a half to finish but of course that was very intermittent. I love the way it has turned out. Sharon Miller is a genius. Next up is the Wedding Ring Shawl in silk. Oooh lala.

(edit Aug 8)I forgot to add yesterday that as I was blocking the shawl one of my cats came flying through and caught a thread on her claw. It snagged big time. I was thoroughly pissed, but I was able to work it back in as it was only a snag and not a break. Then I laughed as I realized the center section pattern is cat's paw. Go figure.

2010-07-29T11:22:00.000-07:00

I am obsessed with quilting right now. This is a new quilt I have started working on this summer. The top is now sewn but I still need to add borders. I can hardly get anything else done right now. ;0)

And of course, there is always a lot of sleeping going on around here....unfortunately it isn't me!

An open letter to Tony Hayward

2010-06-11T10:10:00.000-07:00

Dear Tony Hayward and BP,

What the disastrous oil spill in the Gulf boils down to is greed. The world knows what happened on that rig. We have all seen so much evidence already that it leaves doubt in no one’s minds. Interviews with family members of those lost on that rig are enough though there is so much more than that. More comes to light every day. And the fact that today we are told that this spill is at least twice the amount thought previously makes me literally sick to my stomach. Are you guessing at these numbers or will you just ease us into even worse and worse news?

Was it worth it? Was it worth it? Trying to save some of your precious profit by risking substandard drilling practices? Risking lives? Risking nature itself? Eleven people are dead. Eleven families are mourning. Countless animals have lost their lives and suffered unimaginable pain. Thousands of people have lost their livings. A huge portion of the world’s waters are contaminated beyond redemption in our and our children’s lives, maybe longer.

Was it worth it? How can you answer that? We have no end in sight. I am no scientist, but I know enough to know that the earth’s thermohaline circulation could bring this oil and poisonous dispersants used on it eventually to your European shores. What a tragedy that would be. The Outer Hebrides and Ireland inundated with tar balls and poison from your mistake. Then on to deep water to circle the earth. It makes me so incredibly sad. Congratulations. BP has truly gone global.

What makes you think you can make this right? There are some things that profit can't buy.

I'm pissed as hell! And you should be, too.

2010-04-30T11:10:00.000-07:00

In watching the offshore drilling "accident" in the Gulf Coast during the last days I have come to a couple of realizations.

1.Our nation is a government of reaction and almost never prevention. Why are we waiting until something like this happens before we make sure that there are safety precautions in place to make sure it doesn't??????? Whah???

2. Oil and gas moguls seem to have virtually a free rein as long as their wallets are overflowing. Yeah yeah...I have no proof of any monetary gains of anyone....yadda yadda yadda.......I'm not even blaming them. Well...maybe a little. Recently, a moratorium was lifted on offshore drilling in several areas including the Atlantic and the Gulf.
President Obama, "If, in order to get that passed, we have to compromise in terms of a careful, well thought-out drilling strategy that was carefully circumscribed to avoid significant environmental damage -- I don't want to be so rigid that we can't get something done." Ummmm.....ooooops!

First, it was no leakage. Then it was maybe 10,000 gallons...oh wait! Maybe 40,000.......now we are up to 5,000 barrels. That doesn't sound as bad, right? WRONG. Why did the media start talking in terms of barrels so suddenly instead of gallons? A barrel of oil=about 42 gallons. We are talking AT LEAST 210,000 gallons a day. 11,000,000 gallons were spilled in the Exxon Valdez spill. In 53 days this # will be more than the Exxon Valdez spill. One report said it could take up to three months to drill a relief well. That is 90 days. 90x210,000 =18,900,000 gallons. But an estimate of these rates is 1,680,000 gallons already spilled? I frankly think so much damage has already been done at this point the Gulf and its wildlife will be ruined for a very long time. Not to mention those that make their living on the Gulf. The Exxon accident happened in 1989. In 2002 a study showed quite a bit of oil still remaining. You can read about it here. Who will help? Who can help? This is a negligent mistake of epic proportions, it is not an accident. If there are safeguards that our government wants in place now to keep this from happening on future drills then these safeguards should have already been in place.

OOOOoooook-lahoma where the wind comes sweepin down the plain..

2010-04-29T11:15:00.000-07:00

And I thought things were only bigger in Texas! Silly me.

Do I ever have some eye candy!!!!

2010-04-19T12:05:00.000-07:00

This is the newest member of the household. A Normandy wheel from Carson Cooper. I ordered her on my birthday and received her last weekend. This week I had a little time to try out a bit of cashmere/silk blend that I got from Skaska Designs when I made a whirlwind trip to the DFW Fiber Fest with Ceci. I had bought the cashmere planning on using it with a new Russian spindle....but I couldn't help myself and had to christen the new wheel with it. The wheel spins like a dream! I can't say enough about it. I have three whorls and two flyers to choose from as well as a single or double drive capability. The options makes my head spin and I think I will need a lot of time to experiment to find out what all this baby can do. For now I will content myself with a little gossamer.

Here you can see how the flyer is shaped so that the newly spun yarn does not rub against the wood. It is just one small example of the wonderful workmanship in this wheel. The proof is in the spinning, but she ain't too bad to look at. ;0)

This is a Bayerische Sock from Eunny Jang's old blog. I have started this sock a couple of times in different colors...but this color is the winner. I love the traveling twisted stitches and this color shows them well. There are almost 100 stitches per round. Ugh! I am working on both at once, so there is NO WAY I am ripping these out again.

One of the clarinet players in one of my groups.....my sentiments EXACTLY! I wish I could wear this shirt every day.

And a couple of locals in Lawton, Oklahoma. You wouldn't BELIEVE how loud these little guys are when protecting their babies from crazy tourists (that would be me). They are everywhere and these little ones were outside a Native American Museum in the park.

The school year is soon over and it can't get here soon enough. I think all of my students are as worn out as I am. Next week is TAKS testing so I get the week off......ahhh...well.....I am TAKING the week off. heh We will put it that way. Sanity break. Although it may be too late for me.....

Finishing Projects

2010-03-05T11:08:00.000-08:00

Texas received an unusually hard winter this year. And I, for one, couldn't have been any happier when we got a record snowfall this February. Fritz, however was not so thrilled about the prospect of looking for his catnip in the snow.

I have been diligently working on finishing some projects this winter and I finally have some progress pictures to report. I have been trying to stay a little farther from the computer and a little closer to the knitting chair.....but with the invent of Ravelry that is increasingly harder and harder to do.

One of the projects I have been working on is a qulit class leading up to the Paula Nadelstern workshop. Here are a few of my blocks so far. It has been an amazing journey already as we have learned about many of the principals she uses as well as different techniques. Very fascinating. Previously I had just thrown colors and fabrics together and would hope for the best. Now I am beginning to understand movement and color in a better way. I have learned so much more than I thought that I would. I can hardly wait until the workshop.

I have also been knitting and spinning a bit.

Fiddlehead Mittens

Latvian Socks

Fireside Sweater

We Call Them Pirates....again! Another gift for a friend.

This is some sort of long wool that I am spinning s twist for a twined knitting project. The yarn is traditionally spun this way and plied with a z twist ply. This is opposite of normal, but twined knitting makes the yarn twist on itself as the knitting is done and this will alleviate some of this. I am spinning it with a little more twist than normal also. It should be an interesting project. I HAVE learned already that I apparently depend on my hand nearest the orifice a bit too much. With an opposite spin this was immediately noticeable. Ooops!

Surprise, Wollmeise!!!!

2009-10-12T14:03:00.002-07:00

We visited family in Germany for three weeks this summer. One of the MUSTS on my list was of course, Wollmeise. It was overwhelming to walk into this little store brimming with gorgeous color and lots of happy knitters. I came home with lots of booty.

And booty.

But we won't talk about that...............

We visited Ulm. Remember this picture?

Here it is in summer.

In the city the party was on with Schwörmontag. It was a lot of fun to walk the streets and drink beer while people watching. What a cool city this is. Right on the Danube and tons of culture and history.

Blautopf

Konigsee...

The Zugspitz! Good LORD it is TALL. We were hoping to hike it, but in contemplating my gracelessness and a hike over a glacier....we thought it best to ride the Zugspitzbahn.

Would you like to see how I got down a granite flight of stairs? Thus the need to stay away from hiking Germany's tallest mountain this trip. hahaha

And one of my favorite cities in Austria: Salzburg. It is such a wonderful city and a place that I feel right at home as a musician. It is a surreal feeling.

We also toured around quite a bit and did do some wonderful hiking. Saw some wonderful museums. I was able to study a knitting technique at one museum that I have been dying to learn...... I will refrain from revealing that one right now, but suffice to say that day trip was by far the most meaningful and magical for me on the entire trip. Stay posted.

I took about 600 pictures in all.....but I won't torture you with them......at least not right now.

Finished objects......I think there have been a few since I last posted, but here is the most recent.

This is a test knit for Donna Druchunas for her book Ethnic Knitting Exploration. It is designed using her explanations of traditional techniques. I came away from this project with the confidence to design my own sweater. Pretty cool for someone who doesn't stray much beyond the written pattern.

Free Days

2009-06-01T07:15:00.001-07:00

I am finally free for a few days. Well...not completely, but free enough to do a little sewing and knitting. I have pictures! Whooohooo!

My new sewing armoire. Love, love, love this thing! I can make a huge mess and then fold it all up for no one to be any the wiser. I am so happy with this. :0) I got the idea from Heather Ross in her book Weekend Sewing. As soon as I saw it I knew that was the answer to my dining room table nightmare. Or so I thought. The table still seems to be crowded....go figure.

Baby bibs and burp cloths for someone who is going to be one of the best moms ever. These were such a pleasure to make. The piping was sewn by machine and then hand sewn on the back for a nice touch.

A few bags from tutorials on blogs I have been stalking. Very fun to make. I have even had a few requests for them, so I may oblige.

Are you familiar with Paula Nadelstern? If not, YOU SHOULD BE. :0) I first learned of her a few years ago when her book on Kaleidoscope Quilts came out. I was dumbfounded by her technique. After reading about her I began an obsession with Singer Featherweight sewing machines. (I am easily persuaded, you see...) So, when I found out she would be doing a workshop near Dallas in 2010 I jumped at the chance. It included a monthly block study on her Puzzle Quilts book. Here is one my first attempts. I have a couple more I will need to take pics of and post.

There is so much more to the study than I even thought possible and I am learning so much about color theory, shading, piecing, etc. So much to learn. I am definitely one of the baby quilters in the group.

This is the progress on my Rosebud Shawl. Looks horrible, doesn't it? LOL But you can see how it will look once it is blocked. I am now on row 40 something of the border and the rows are all more than 600 stitches each! That's a lot o' stitches.

Coming up for air......

2009-04-15T19:50:00.000-07:00

This is what I awoke to this morning.

At least they didn't drag it around the living room, I guess. And look who else is waking from the winter......

Wow! What a busy month it has been. I have played a church job in almost every Christian denomination I can think of this Easter. And after much theological contemplation....I have come to only one conclusion. The Easter Bunny hates me. Oh, I looked for eggs...looked for candy. Looked for one little shred of evidence that he had been there in the form of crappy Easter Basket grass. Nada. Niente. I ended up in Walmart buying Robin Eggs for 50% off for myself on Monday. FOR MYSELF! Thanks Easter Bunny. I guess the Tooth Fairy will disappear now. The economy? I think not.

I have still been working on one of Sharon Miller's patterns called Rosebud Shawl in Jamieson and Smith 1 ply cobweb. It's the first time I have used this yarn and I like it a lot. It is TINY and a little sticky but that is a plus when I inadvertently drop stitches....which happens a little more than occasionally.
Then:

Now:

Looks suspiciously like a shower cap, doesn't it?

I see lace lifelines in my future for the gossamer silk I have slated for the Wedding Ring Shawl. This is my proverbial "carrot" to finish my Rosebud. Beautiful, isn't it? Ahhh, silk, I love you.

Samples from Sharon Miller:

I have also been doing some sewing that I can't show you right now. Baby gifties for a certain readers That's all I'm sayin'. I will post some pics in a few weeks. Speaking of sewing.....have you guys seen Weekend Sewing by Heather Ross? She has some wonderful ideas and inspiring photography. Heather Ross. Check out her blog. I love this book. Unfortunately it's going to cost me. She has a great shot of an armoire she uses as a sewing space and I am now obsessed with having one for myself......obsessed........as if there isn't yarn and fabric coming out of every available space and I could actually organize it into a 9 square ft space.......but I am willing to try.

For the love of God I need to at least get the kitchen table cleared so we can eat on it. I won't share that shame with you in pics.

What is that in my front yard???????

2009-03-06T08:40:00.000-08:00

We got tagged last week by one of the local high school bands. Imagine my surprise at midnight pulling up to see these on my lawn......A DOZEN of them. The neighbors seriously thought we had put them out. Which just goes to show what they really think about us. hahhahahaa Oh yes....just you wait neighbors.....just ....you....wait.

Wow, what a grueling three weeks it has been. The stretch finally concluded with a concert out in East Texas where we finished with Ravel's Bolero. A just end to three weeks of non-stop playing not to mention teaching. A cold front came in the day of the concert and threw all of the reed players for a loop while we rushed to make(double reeds) or find (single reeds) new reeds. Ugh. Not that I am complaining for real, mind you. It's just my way. I am working and happy about it! Tonight's line-up includes Beethoven 7 and some Ravel again. Here are a couple of shots from my seat in ET. In one month we will host Itzak Perlman. CAN YOU BELIEVE IT?????

Even in the midst of all this I have found a little time for knitting. A few years ago I fell in love with Sharon Miller's Heirloom Knitting designs. I started her Pink Puzzle Wrap....in black Kidsilk Haze......LOL and have started working on it again.

I also decided, against my better judgement, to start the Rosebud Shawl in Jamieson & Smith Cobweb weight. I may have possibly gone over the edge this time. This is on size 3mm needles and is unbelievably tiny 1 ply weight. I think the finished product will be gorgeous but will take quite a while. Months if not a year for me. Here are pics of the beginning and then a few rows to a final 1 repeat of the center.

UFOs? Plenty. Pics to follow in the next days. Promise. :0)

I did, however finish another Pirate hat, which I promptly gave away....again. I am such a softie when someone likes my knitting.

Ice, Ice, Baby!

2009-01-27T13:50:00.000-08:00

Wow! Look at that. How long has it been since I have posted? It is embarrassing. Is there anybody still left out there?

Today we are expecting an ice storm. Expecting. Waiting. Wondering. It is almost 4 pm and school was called off. Yet...no ice. And barely any rain. What that meant to me was a day of reed making and knitting (yea)....oh who are we kidding? I knit and gouged a few pieces of cane in the mean time. LOL Perhaps there will be ice for tomorrow.......heh heh.

Here are a couple of things I have been working on. A test knit that is so sorely overdue she has given up on me. So that's it for me and test knits. At least around the holidays. Musician. What was I thinking? So sorry about that one. It was still a pleasant knit and I do like it. Interesting texture that I normally would not do, but it turned out well.

Cable/Rib Cardigan by Gayle Bunn. It is on the wooly board right now awaiting my button choice. I came home with three choices. Why I cannot make the decision at the fabric store I do not know. But I know this. Whatever I choose there will be the wrong one. It never fails. Anyhow, I really enjoyed knitting this one. My knitting time has been limited and it was still a very fast knit for that time frame.

Celtic by Martin Storey, that genius. I love this thing. Rowan Felted Tweed. I have never used it before but I like the feel of it. Especially after the Jamiesons's Aran in the Cable/Rib. It was harsh, but it will soften a little and for cables like that I will make exceptions. :0)

So who got to see the inauguration????? Wasn't it moving? I was really happy to see how many people were there and how moved the country is to have a bit of change. Did you see/hear the music? Wow, what a piece??? John Williams arrangement? Man, oh, man. Itzak Perlman will actually be coming to East Texas Symphony in April. I will get TO SHARE A STAGE WITH ITZAK PERLMAN!!!!!!! If I don't pass out when he walks on.......but that would technically still be a shared stage, right? I am there...he is there.......we have our instruments.......just one of us happens to be passed out unconscious on the floor. (me)

A Work Day In the Life.......

2008-11-07T13:50:00.000-08:00

It begins with hitting every red light on a drive from hell.

Traffic...oh...and buffalo..No, I am not kidding. Pretty cool, huh? There are babies right now the size of German Shepherds.

I have packed in the car my tools

to make oboe reeds

and music to practice for an upcoming concert....

and I drive around to different schools all day teaching oboe lessons to kids in rooms this small. Blech. Love the kids..hate the rooms.

Then it's off to rehearsals with knitting at my side....

and sometimes a concert in the evening. Sometimes not.

Wow! It looks a lot more boring in pictures. Holy Crap, I gotta get a life!

Here's a little more Thoroughbred. I didn't do all that last night...I was just long in uploading my pics.

Also toying with the idea of knitting a traditional fishing gansey. I have always been fascinated by the romantic history surrounding these sweaters. It probably wasn't nearly as romantic as I would have it...but hey!

new, new, news

2008-11-06T14:16:00.000-08:00

I have had the good fortune to be able to test knit a cardigan for a designer from across the pond. It is a really neat design and I think you will like it when she finishes it. Here are the beginnings with her permission, of course. Yea, Katya!!! More info to come.

Here is a small bit of Thoroughbred. Love, LOVE>, LOVE these colors. They blend so beautifully and I can't decide if there is one combination I like more than another.

Poetry in Stitches Wedding Cardigan in Spindrift.

Sad news

2008-10-27T10:26:00.009-07:00

Rupert

We lost this little guy this past weekend. It was really hard for us as he has been in my life for more than 13 years after a rescue. He was getting old, though and he had a good life here. I will miss you my little man.

Pirates

2008-10-23T08:07:00.001-07:00

Remember this skullcap?

I am starting a scarf and mittens to match. Susan.....since you were the lucky girl.....do you need these? Man I love this hat. I think I will make another for myself as well. Is it snowing up there? Hoping to come up and get some skiing in.....even if it is on my face. I think I may still have ice burns on my face and ass from the last skiing adventure. ah well.....you live and you learn.....or not.

Tootin' My Own Horn

2008-10-17T07:07:00.000-07:00

And not just my oboe.

I finally made it to the Texas State Fair last week. Let's just be clear here. My main purpose was to partake of this. Seriously. They will fry anything at this place. I am surprised they don't just hand out Plavix at the fair entrances. And yes...it was good and yes. I do feel guilty. :0)

Here are my Fair Entries this year. I finally finished them all the day before entering (finally, a plus for procrastination) and left them at the entry desk.

Season of Darkness and Winter Light.

Rheingold.

Believe it or not...this is actually Birch. I think Romi had a similar experience with her fair entry being displayed. I feel your pain, Romi. It took me 30 minutes just to locate it. LOL Oh well. I am happy about it placing, certainly.

I have some other things on the needles, but they will be forthcoming. A wonderful cardigan I am test knitting you will LOVE and some socks I have finished test knitting. They were really fun as I learned some new techniques.

One challenging week down.....

2008-08-26T08:03:00.000-07:00

This last week was an amazing week. I was fortunate enough to be asked to record with the Dallas Wind Symphony on a recording that will be strictly Percy Grainger pieces. Not only was the music challenging but the musicianship in that group is just perfection. Nothing left halfway done or halfway practiced. And Jerry Junkin was also a joy to follow. The recording took place in the Meyerson which is acoustically wonderful. It is also a nightmare as you can hear everything in there. Everything.

While in Dallas I had to take a lunch break on Saturday to go and visit a knitting store that I have been meaning to get to for ages. I wasn't disappointed. It is called Shabby Sheep. There isn't much on her website right now, but the owner tells me it is about to go under construction. The store itself leaves nothing to be desired in sock yarns or a nice warm environment. My friend, Marty, and I felt welcome the moment we walked in the door. I don't always have that feeling in knitting stores these days and I liked it very much. The store is in a renovated frame house in a really cool uptown neighborhood. Bravo! Shabby Sheep. I highly recommend it if you get to Dallas. Please let them know I sent ya. ;0)

I got more on the quilt finished before last week, but have barely had time for it since then.

I also did a couple of quilt blocks for a charity blanket. These were so much fun to make and I can't wait to see what the quilt looks like when finished. It is for a lovely little boy named Aryn..

In another unbelievable turn of events...I finally finished three things on my to-do list. That means darning in ends, adding interfacing, blocking, over stitching steeks, etc. Embarrassing but true. I only finished because I had a deadline to enter them into the fair. heeeheee Yes, really. I just wanted to see, ya know? Now the waiting. I felt like I had abandoned my children when I drove away. It was awful. And you thought I had already darned in those ends, didn't you? heh heh

Now I am finishing Elizabeth I and waiting for some Spindrift from Anne of She Ewe Knits. Luckily it is a longer post than I thought from Canada and I may actually finish the knitting on Elizabeth I before it arrives. I wonder if Anne planned that? huh.

And from the "What the HELL?" category......

2008-07-30T13:20:00.000-07:00

It's V's birthday, so we are having a party. So, I make my list.

groceries
laundry
clean the fridge
guest list
make desserts
make floating candles
completely redo the entire bathroom......

"What the hell?"

Perhaps I should just frame out a new addition to the house while I am at it? No, let's stick to taking down wallpaper.

Oh, yeah. I think I may have overstretched it this time just a little. It's a problem I have. Just one more thing to add to the little list of things to do before the weekend....never mind that it is a job that should take a couple of weeks. (or in my case several months due to my flitting attention span) I just get distracted easily.....that's all. Hauntingly similar to the way I prepare to leave for an overnight gig in another town. I must complete a year's worth of housework in one hour. I dunno. Perhaps I am unwittingly punishing myself for not having done it, oh, say, two years ago. Oh, did I mention I almost caught my hair on fire?????? That's me. Sharonarooni the Great Human Tiki Torch. But back to the wall.......as I peel wallpaper and cuss........what do I see but this little morsel of what is actually underneath.

NOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!

On a brighter note-borders are coming along on my Pennants Quilt.

And Elizabeth I.

I know. Not exactly eye candy, is it? I never claimed to be a photographer....only the owner of a camera. I am working both sleeves together because we all know about my attention span now....and my affinity for leaving projects with one arm done. It will not happen this time. I swear it. :0)

Ever closer

2008-07-26T16:35:00.000-07:00

I only have ten blocks left for the center of the Pennants quilt! That means 70 down and a boat load of borders to go. I think I need more light yellows........maybe in the closet.....

One of my favorite blocks. This check material just glows. Kaffe, I love you...in a purely platonic way, of course.

I scored this little guy at an estate sale this morning. I plan to reupholster it in some odd fashion, but I will leave the turquoise intact underneath in case I ever decide to sell it later. Nothing like a little "mid century" investment. I am still kicking myself for a chair I left on the curb when we moved a couple of years ago. I knew I would regret that one. UGH! And that is why I am a pack rat....and should most likely stay away from estate sales.

Now, since this IS a knitting blog...I have been diligently finishing my old Elizabeth I this summer. Remember her? I will have pics up soon. I am finished with the front and back and am now working both arms at the same time on one Knit Picks circular needle. It is A LOT of plain knitting and very tiny needles, so it is taking a very long time. Does anyone else get sleepy when they have to knit copious amounts of plain knitting?

Fassett rides again....

2008-07-25T12:56:00.000-07:00

It's been a while, eh? Not that I haven't thought about updating....I just couldn't seem to get the internet up to speed. In case you haven't figured it out, I am not the most technologically advanced being on the planet. But I do know when something is awry.

We recently went to a voice over phone system. Immediately our high speed internet slowed to a less-than-dial-up speed. Phone call after phone call. Trouble shooting. It's your computer...it's your router......someone is using your band width. Yeah. darn right! You are!!!! I did some research. Gave them the boot. Low and behold. I am up and running again. No wonder they only have 2 million customers.

Now, on to my Fassett news. You know I love Kaffe Fassett? Do you? I have been working since last year on his Tumbling Blocks quilt. Remember that? Now I am finally hand quilting it. What d'ya think?

It is my first serious attempt at it so it is slow going, but I am really enjoying it. I was hoping to finish in time for the State Fair, but I think it is out of the question. Maybe next year.....

Here is another top I am working on. It is the Kaffe Fassett Pennants quilt. It is done in yellows and ochres and a lot of jewel tones. This has been a BLAST to work on. The saturation of color thrills me. His riotous use of color has always attracted me. I would love nothing more than to fill my house with his fabrics.

There is a long way to go as you can see from this picture in the Fassett book.

I have been diligently working on a halter top by Amy Butler. After 2 attempts and 2 failures for myself but great presents for my buddies, I decided to try it in a knit material as suggested on some other sewing sites. Ta Da! Wisdom of the masses.

And just when I had almost given up hope that my body was not grotesquely deformed. I think my next project will be bust alterations on my pattern. We are not all A cups, Amy, for the love of God. I do love the girl's patterns and fabric design, tho.

Place mats for Mom-for a little sunshine in the kitchen. Love ya, Mom!

Here is some sock yarn in progress. Paris Sparkle.

It is tencel and super wash merino with a little glitz thrown in. Spins great and I am so happy because I ordered several shades from the same Etsy seller. She is theranch on Etsy. Wow! What colors and fibers and she is an absolute pleasure to deal with. I highly recommend her work. She got it to me in no time....now it is just up to me........hmmmmm. I plan to order again from her.

We were lucky enough to have some cardinals nest right outside our living room window in one of the house plants. We were able to see the whole process from nesting to the babies finally leaving the nest. It was just beautiful to watch them grow every day. In the end I think two made it. One of those two I had to rescue from the pool. Oh yes. Diving for chicks. I was a bird in my previous life, you see....

And last but not least. A little story.

I recently decided to go for a swim. It is nothing out of the ordinary...it has been 100 almost every day. So, I swim. Swim, swim, swim. While I swim I am thinking of a news story last night about how they are short on rabies vaccinations this year. I smugly think to myself, "Well, I will never be in that situation anyway." My how smugness gets one into trouble. Three minutes later I notice a fowl smell emanating from the pool filter. You know the one. The death smell. "Oh, one of the baby birds fell in again and I bet he is in the filter." This is what I think. I open it. I see a sad little floating body and I am even sadder when I see it is one of the babies. I practically raised these babies myself! Ok, I didn't feed them....but theoretically, I was there. Right there. Oh, agony. My broken heart. Then, I reach to get the skimmer....and I see an ear. WAIT! Birds don't have ears on the outside. Good Lord!!! That's a BAT! Well, now. Who's been swimming in rabies NOW? Oh-MY-GOD!!!!!! I rush in and call CDC in the off chance there could be an open cut contact with saliva in the pool water. They put me on hold. They can't find any data. I start to panic. Could I become rabid? Regardless of what my students say, I HAVE NEVER BEEN RABID BEFORE. CDC can't find anything so they give me a State Health Line number to call. I do, wrong number. I think I have awoken a college student in Austin from a drunken stupor. "No Man. This isn't the Texas Health Department." "Thanks. Sorry to have awoken you at 3 o'clock IN THE AFTERNOON." I rush to the phone book and locate the the right number. The longer this takes the more convinced I am that I will soon start attacking my own pets. Or I might need a stake through my heart. Is the sun becoming brighter? It rings. I am beginning to wonder how one cuts off a bat head let alone actually ships it to the health department. UPS? FedEx? Post office. "Is there anything hazardous in this package ma'am?" "Well, it depends on your point of view...." It rings. An answer. "Let me put you in touch with the bat specialist", she says. Did she snicker? Is there really a bat specialist, or are they just humoring me while they pinpoint my location? "No ma'am", he says. "The chlorine will negate any small trace of saliva if he was even rabid. Let me tell you how to safely get rid of the body......".

Sewing and sowing

2008-05-27T08:54:00.000-07:00

First a little sowing. These are pics from a Memorial Day fish fry we always attend at my mom and step-dad's place. He always has an amazing garden. There are always blue berries and black berries for all fresh off the bush. Potatoes and onions and squash already coming in, too. Better than gold. It's worth the long drive and the million dollar tank of gas..... :0)

I have been doing lots of sewing, too. This last week is the last week of teaching in the schools, so I have slowed down to a crawl....and I LIKE it. Sewing and knitting and lounging and spring cleaning. It is heaven.

I bought this book a couple of months ago.

Have you guys seen it? I bought it for one pattern...but I find I am increasingly attracted to many of the beautiful things inside. These are a couple of things I just made for my buddy, Susan, for her birthday yesterday. Shhhhh, she won't get them until today, but I am pretty sure she won't look here today. This is a roll for colored pencils.

(notice the Allegra in the background............ugh.)

And a pin cushion like one I have for myself. She is about to start sewing...so how could I resist? I am a sucker for any friend that shares the desire to knit or sew. These are both in the book.

And here is the color wheel quilt. It is one of the best patterns in the book in my opinion. Here is the pic in the book. The author, Joelle Hoverson, is a co-owner of Purl and Purl Patchwork in New York. Their online store has a wonderful selection of fabric and yarn! If I ever get to NY..........anyway, they have this pattern kitted up. I used my own stash, but was mightily tempted to use theirs.

Here is mine as it has evolved so far. Not a perfect color wheel in the artistic sense, but it works well enough. Now for the quilting. I think it will be a fast machine quilt on this one with my little Featherweight. Thank God for walking feet attachments.

Spring in my backyard

2008-05-04T08:42:00.000-07:00

There isn't much room for growing things around here but we manage in containers. A little basil.

Purple ruffled basil.

Ahhh, tomatoes.

Eggplant.

This is the Earth Box my dad sent to us. This thing is amazing! I think we already have over a dozen tomatoes on the vine. Good thing as I thought I would have to take out a loan the last time I went produce shopping.

Is anyone else feeling the pinch from your grocery bill? How about the gasoline bill? I have a fairly economical car.....$50 bucks to fill up now, people. FIFTY. Oh sure, I hear people say "Well, we've had it good so far. Just look how much Europe is paying." Hello? They actually use their gas taxes for repairing highways and bridges (Minnesota-remember?) and other things besides just lining politicians pockets. Maybe even heath care.....I am not positive...but don't get me started. I just can't believe we are sitting back and taking this crap from Exxon and the other big oil companies. Yes they pay high taxes. So do we. Add up your sales tax and property tax and income tax sometime and see if you don't reach the same amount. I'm just sayin'.

But this is a knitting and sewing blog, isn't it? :0) How about my finally finished foot stool?

This is mostly Kaffe Fassett fabric, but I have some Amy Butler and other great stuff in here. It is a great way to use up some leftover fabric. Paper pieced and easily done. :0)

Of Tartans and Kilts

2008-04-20T13:51:00.000-07:00

I had a chance to go to a Firefighter Bagpipes, Drums & Honor Guard Jam Session yesterday. I love bagpipes and will move mountains to hear them if possible. Really, I just go to look at the kilt hose, but shhhh, don't tell anyone. Well, and the legs. heh heh Anyway, our local regiment sounded just wonderful. Amazing Grace always brings chill bumps to me no matter what the occasion. I had no idea there was even a regiment here, so I am glad to know it. Here is a shot of one of my Socks for Soldiers getting into the action. This will go either to Iraq or Afghanistan.

They are sending packages to both zones. If you are a knitter and interested in making socks for soldiers, I highly suggest checking out the group. It has been a great experience for me. (wave to Chuck and Celia...Hi, Guys!!!.....ummm, did I respond to that last email? My mind is going..........)

I also recently found some interesting books on Tartans. I think these are the most comprehensive I have seen so far. This is one of a series of three. It gives info on the names , of course, and then on the weaving structures and colors. Very fascinating. I intend to use these for the tartan hose coloring. There is another older series I am also trying to locate that has tons of illustrations on the tartan hose. Stay tuned. Also, for anyone interested in kilt hose, there has recently been a reprint of the Veronica Gainsford book Designs for Knitting Kilt Hose and Knickerbocker Stockings by
Schoolhouse Press. It is a great little book on kilt hose.

I am going to gush, so if you care not for mushiness, move ahead for pics of recent trials and travails. You still here? Ok, here goes. I recently had a birthday. No big deal, and frankly, at a certain age I would just as soon not remember I am a year older. This year was different. Oh, I tried to forget. Even taught a little that day just like any other Sunday. My phone rang all day. It was beautiful. I can't tell you how much I loved those calls and how I didn't realize how much it would mean to me that you remembered. One call was just a mysterious oboe playing Happy Birthday. hahahaha I laughed and laughed. I received flowers the day before from my friend of about 30 years, Susan.

She lives very far away but never feels distant. Flowers are wonderful, but the message that comes with them is always better. She and her family are tall. I am not. Thus my nickname that has been able to withstand the test of time :0) Love ya, Buda Jace. (That one is a very long story) Then, a few days later these showed up on my doorstep.

These are from my other friend of 30 years, Raquel. I had been threatening to run away with my neighbor's set of them and I think she decided this would be less risky than being an accomplice to chairnapping. Not to mention the chairs live a half mile away and she thoughtfully insinuated I might look ridiculous running down the street with a pair of adirondak chairs in tow. Truthfully, with my track record of clumsiness she didn't think I would make it. Ambulances are not cheap, my friends.

This is a purse I recently finished for Raquel. She picked the colors and style and I sewed like crazy. It has some special touches in it like hand sewing the flaps so they would wear better, double top stitching on the zipper, and a false bottom. I really love the size and the style. It fits her. Next up is an Amy Butler Chelsea Bag for my mom in denim.

Been doing a lot of spinning on my little Van Eaton wheel. This is Pink Lemonade BFL from Madeline Tosh. I visited the DFW Fiber Fest this year and purchased it there along with some sock yarn and a morado wood Bosworth spindle for lace yarn from Fire Ant Ranch. Gorgeous wood. It is a featherweight, so I will be spinning some silk on it soon.

And some more sewing. This is an Amy Butler cami done in Alexander Henry fabric. It's lined and topstitched and the whole bit. I love it....on my dress form. It looks ridiculous on me. Ridiculous. I don't know if it is just not my style (usually black-I am trying to break out of that) or it is my body type...but it is a real drag to spend that much time and have it look so weird to me.

Oh, and I forgot to mention the storms. We have had some pretty nasty ones this spring. Have a look.

This is what we had one evening about 3 am. Nothing like trying to drag a BBQ grill under the porch with this stuff pelting you. Thus the brain damage you may have noticed earlier...That's my excuse and I am sticking to it. I also have footage on my camera of a tornado...however, I can't seem to get it off of my camera. Further proof of said brain injury. My neighborhood looks like a roofing convention.

It takes a snow day......

2008-03-07T09:28:00.001-08:00

to get me back where I belong. This is what my drive home looked like yesterday. They said midnight it would come in...a little event, they said. At noon all hell broke loose and at 3 the roads looked like this. This is near Dallas. It is March. Does anyone understand this? I was actually hoping for a snow day...but c'mon.

I took the time to get acquainted with the new love of my life...spinning wheel # 319 by Wallace Van Eaton!!!! It arrived Wednesday and I couldn't be any happier. Looks like a dream and spins even better. It is made of several gorgeous woods and all the bobbins are different as well. He really has outdone himself. Pictures just cannot do this wheel justice. The balance is just magnificent.

Here is some superwash on the flyer which will soon become a pair of socks. Do you see the amazing woods there on the flyer? Wow! He is a master.

So, I know I have been absent for a very long time....just couldn't balance things very well lately. All good, just busy as usual. I suck at time management. Oh, and organization.

So, how about a little eye candy? I have been doing a few things lately. Some place mats from some Kaffe Fassett material. It is some of my favorite. The man's a genius. Also, this is the beginning of a foot stool with many of his fabrics and some others I have found. It has been really fun. It is done by paper piecing and much easier than I anticipated. The rest will be made from scratch. Keep tuned and hopefully I won't injure myself with tools.

Some knitting and a little more sewing.

This is why I haven't blogged......or answered emails. But, I am on the way!!!!! Keep checking your inbox! I really am back for good now. ;0)

Christmas Knitting????!!!!

2007-12-27T17:20:00.000-08:00

Who actually finishes Christmas knitting on time anyway? Oh, sure, it all starts with good intentions. The carefully selected yarns and colors....the perfect pattern for the right person. I have it all laid out in my head. If I can get these mittens done this week, I can finish all 183 sweaters and those socks by next week. It sounds rational. To me. In the twisted little part of my mind that handles time management....at least until Christmas Eve. I have never been good at my to-do Christmas knitting lists. Always putting my ambition in overdrive and being disappointed when I couldn't finish on time...never mind the fact that my lists are as long as a roll of toilet paper and would scare the be-jeeezus out of even Martha Stewart. I was secretly glad that when she came out of prison she had only her poncho to show for it. When I found out she was knitting I feared she would put us other knitters to shame with the sheer volume she would produce. I was relieved she didn't step out gifting pairs of socks and scarves to reporters and nearby homeless. I know...it's an ugly side of me. I am not proud. But, it didn't offer reprieve from my mania. Still, years later, I sit here and work on my Christmas knitting (pared down to a few wash cloths and some mittens) on the 27th of December. There's always next year.

These are some convertible mittens from Never Knit Your Man a Sweater* *unless you've got the ring by Judith Durant. I have used this book previously on researching argyle socks. They are Christmas presents for a friend of ours that plays bass. He mentioned one time a couple of years ago that he would love to have convertible mittens that would also open on the thumb so he could feel the bass neck when he plays outside. I am morphing the pattern just a bit. He also has extraordinarily large hands. Maybe, New Year's presents?????? No, you can't see the wash cloths. I actually finished them on time.

I got out of the house tonight and went down to Dallas to Passion Knit to spend a gift certificate I got in March!!!!( Yes, E., it's the one you gave me.) Even got out of my pajamas. That is a big feat for me between Christmas and New Year's Day when I relegate every spare moment to knitting, quilting, sewing and watching the news channels 23 1/2 hours a day. Yes....yet another small issue of mine. Another day we will discuss that one. Anyhow, I will have you know I do put on clean pajamas and brush my teeth. Yeeee! I digress.

The store has a nice selection of novelty yarns as well as a lot of typical designer yarns we all look for when we knitters (yarn snobs) enter a yarn store. It is a neat lay-out with a loft upstairs perfect for sitting and knitting. Starbucks close by. A 30% off sale. What more could one ask for? A must on your Dallas knitting shop tours.....I was able to come away with a couple of lace Addi needles and some Shi Bui Silk Cloud. It is very much like Kidsilk Haze but with much more yardage. It is 60% mohair and 40% silk where Kidsilk is 70/30. I imagine it will have more of a halo on it. I am thinking Icarus shawl or maybe even....this.

V's brother from Germany is here visiting for 3 weeks so we have been doing a few touristy things we never get to do..or just don't do...on our own. I have seen more sporting goods stores than I knew existed. Do you know some of them have live fish and ducks in them???? Oh yeah. I actually have a yearning to tie flies now. No, nevermind there are no places to fly fish near here...or that I don't even fly fish. Hell, I would even get a bow and arrows if I didn't have this clutzy streak...but we all know that could only end in a hospital visit and some kind of blood letting. Mine or an unsuspecting neighbor. So, I refrain for now.....I hope when we take him to the Ft. Worth stockyards I don't have a sudden need to cow wrestle or bull ride. We took his mom there a few years ago to see the cattle drive. I have seen too much TV and cattle drive to me involves danger and fast moving herds. I had Pamplona-esque visions. What were these people doing in the street!!!!!! After yelling for people to move off of the street and onto the sidewalk ( I was saving lives) I saw the first hundred year old cow round the corner in a wheelchair. Nothing like being in a geriatric cow stampede. I was humiliated. That's the last time I save anyone's lives.

Meme

2007-12-18T12:57:00.000-08:00

I got tagged by email on this one...but could not resist making a meme and tagging all of you who are reading this. Bwaaahhhahahahahaha

1. Wrapping paper or gift bags? Wrapping paper and tull and as much crap as I can load onto the present. The wrapping is half of the fun. It distracts from the inside. *See #13.

2. Real tree or Artificial? Real....decorating is another thing.

3. When do you put up the tree? After the gigs are over and all the trees we can still purchase either look like Charlie Brown trees or are as dry as the Mojave. I live fairly close to the Fire Department.

4. When do you take the tree down? March is always good.

5. Do you like egg nog? Not really.

6. Favorite gift received as a child? A large purple stuffed horse named Silver. Go figure. I threw a fit at the airport when they wanted to put him in a plastic bag in the cargo hold. I thought he would suffocate. My mom ended up buying another plane ticket for him to shut me up.

7. Do you have a nativity scene? No.

8. Hardest person to buy for? My step dad.

9. Easiest person to buy for? me....no... V, most definitely.

10. Mail or email Christmas cards? Usually too late.

11. Worst Christmas gift you ever received? huh. It will come to me. Can't remember. Must be blocking it.

12. Favorite Christmas Movie? Well...Rudolph, of course, because I am in love with the Abominable Snowman. It's the hair. I have always been a hair girl.

13. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? Do I have to answer that?

14. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas? Cookies, fudge....hell. What ISN'T my favorite thing to eat?

15 Clear lights or colored on the tree? Everything.

16. Favorite Christmas song? Bring a Torch Jeannette, Isabella....at least the tune.

17 Travel at Christmas or stay home? Depends on the year.

18. Can you name all of Santa's reindeers? Wow! Do we all sing this song to remember them??? hahahah You know Dasher and Dancer and Prancer and Vixon, Comet and Cupid and Donner and Blitzen but do you recall the most famous reindeer of all, Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer

19. Open the presents Christmas Eve or morning? Both.

20. Most annoying thing about this time of year? Traffic, hands down.

21. Favorite ornament theme or color? Purple and blue light. Christmas elves and pixies in Japan ceramic. Call me crazy.

22. Favorite for Christmas dinner? Fried fish. I kid you not. That's what we have.

23. What do you want for Christmas this year? For my family to just get through it this year and look forward to a new and better year..

24. Who is most likely to respond to this? Michele

25. Who is least likely to respond to this? No one, because gifts may depend on this. Everyone got that? ;0)

Kaffe Fassett's Tumbling Blocks revisited.

2007-11-25T11:25:00.000-08:00

Everyone that celebrates Thanksgiving have a good holiday? I hope so. Ours was quiet but nice. Better than I had anticipated. I was actually sort of nervously dreading it. The first holidays without a family member are always harder. We did have great food, though. My mom always makes cornbread dressing from my Grandmother's old southern recipe. It wouldn't be Thanksgiving without it. :0) Mmmmmm mmmm, good.

It keeps growing. I thought I had finished with one striped border. I was mistaken. Once I put the backing down to see if I had enough yardage...well...as you can see...it begs for another dark border to frame it. The pink stripes blend into the quilt a little too much for me. Anyway, I will get more backing soon and the quilting process will begin. I am going to quilt it by hand...so don't look for this to be a finished object in the near future.....you all know me too well for that anyway, don't you?

So what are you all working on for the holidays this year? Anyone already finished with their knitting for the Christmas season? hahahah That's laughable, isn't it?

Psssst, look here...

2007-11-07T14:04:00.000-08:00

Here is the Season of Darkness and Winter Light in a crappy picture...but that's about the best shot I have right now. Once it is lined I will get a better modeled shot. Right. I am finished with the sewing now. Finally! I will still add some velvet lining as the pattern calls for....but I had to do a little try-on dance and show you guys. I may be a hermit, but I am still crafty. ;0) Please, for the love of God, don't judge me on my wallpaper.....I am trying to find a paint color to match my garish tiles and counter top.

I really enjoyed this pattern, but it was very time consuming to sew. LOTS os seams. I used the mattress stitch on all of them except the back grafting and I like how neat that seaming stitch can look even with a lot of fudging. These seams cannot be lined up one to one as it is horizontal against vertical.

I have discovered Amy Butler. How did I ever live without her fabric? The colors and the patterns are just mouth watering. Here are a couple of her purse patterns I tried out. The patterned Velma purse is her fabric and her design. The skulls are her Madison design but the fabric is Alexander henry, I believe. The patterns are very well written and super easy to follow and get great results. AND I only sewed through my finger once. Yes, through. With a sewing machine. It's a good thing I don't work in a factory or on a farm with large equipment. And it is amazing how horror and shock can keep you from feeling pain and give way to the utter curiosity of viewing your own finger skewed on a sewing machine needle. Oh, to have had my camera nearby........

Quilt in progress. Blocks are done and now I am piecing the strips. I am fearful of whether the strips will match up. Very fearful.

This is a jacket pattern I located after drooling over one I had seen on a student in a high school hallway. That is where I go for my fashion ideas these days....just randomly roam high school hallways......no! I was teaching music lessons.......but hey, I get my ideas where I can. And I assure you I need all the fashion help I can get, especially when I spend my income on yarn. Anyway, I digress. I searched high and low and found this.

This purple will be my test run as I found some vintage silk from Hong Kong from around the 50's. Wanna see it?

Here it is-all 5 yards of it. Great marine blue and I am scared as hell to cut it. I had seen it in an antique place this summer and when I saw that jacket I knew what had to be done. It was still waiting on me to come and rescue it......or destroy it...whichever comes first. I know, you are thinking about the sewing machine incident, aren't you? Is it hard to get blood out of silk?

Cuteness. She doesn't LOOK like Satan in this pic. Don't ler 'er fool ya.

The knitting...she's a finished.

2007-09-03T10:18:00.000-07:00

The blocking......she's a NOT! Blocking in progress. T-pin bending....stretching the crap out of......blocking. Hmmmm. one side seems to be just a bit smaller. That was the second side I knit. Little more tense at the end of the season last year, I guess. Darn it! Let's see what a little magic can do. Still need to sew it and then sew in lining. We may be looking at an EFT of next February. :0)

Next up on the UFO list is Luskentyre. About 2/3 of a sleeve to go on that one.

This is an older shot with the Rheingold.

Then....let's see....various socks.....Birch. Then my pile will be finished. I better hurry up and start another large piece! Oh, wait! Little Rivers........Marina, was that you I heard shout in the background?

I also just got an order from Glorious Color. Some more stripes to add to my Kaffe Fassett quilt. The colors just weren't to my liking. These will be much better and I have already started cutting and placing some of them. The darker colors really make it.

So, I guess summer officially ends for me tomorrow as I start my full teaching and playing schedule once again. I am actually ready for the summer to be over for once. For obvious reasons, sure, but also the summer was longer this year due to laws changing. I have also been able to work out a schedule I am VERY happy with so I can be at home much more. Pretty cool. I look for this to be a much less stressful but successful year. What more can ya ask for? :0)

Throwing myself into knitting...

2007-08-24T09:34:00.000-07:00

....or what I wish WAS my work.

It has been a really tough couple of months. I imagine it will be so for a long while to come, but things are at least starting to get into a routine. Something comforting about a routine. Is that age showing or??????? Anyway, I want to thank you all for the wonderful emails and calls and comments you have bestowed on me. Not only do I have some really wonderful friends here, I have some truly special cyber friends. I feel truly lucky.

Anyway, I have learned a few things over the last few weeks. Things I have had lots of time to mull over...and over......They are all things I already knew and thought I put into practice. Apparently not. We tend to fool ourselves sometimes. Would you like to hear them?

1. I can’t wait to do the things I deem important whether it is to call a loved one or visit the Eiffel Tower. Don’t wait! Life is
not permanent.
2. Tell my loved ones that I love them. Often.
3. Tolerance is far better in the long run than regret.
4. Learn to know the signs of when to intervene. Do not wait!
5. I have learned who my true friends are.
6. Some people just don’t know what to say in the face of tragedy, and that’s ok. Sometimes all a grieving person needs is
for someone to be close by them and hold their hand…..or color their hair….or drive three hours one way for a hug. (You
know who you are).
7. There are some that hold grudges so tightly that it clouds their judgment even in the face of tragedy. Avoid these people
at all costs.
8. Slow down and take more time with family and friends.
9. Usually multi-tasking gets less done.

I know...they sound mundane, probably. Simple minded even. Just a few of my truths.

Enough of the sappy. Here are some things I have been working on over the last couple of weeks. I have thrown myself into my knitting and some quilting again. First, Season of Darkness and Winter Light getting close. I am just finishing the cuffs and will sew it all together and block. I still need to add interfacing and velvet lining....but we will see. The thought of fusible interfacing on my knitting gives me the heebie-jeebies.

Next, a Kaffe Fassett Tumbling Blocks quilt in progress. I am playing with colors....do you like the turquoise in there for contrast or not?

And my work spaces.

My little pride and joy.

Finally finished the rainy Day Socks. It is not rainy anymore.

Hi, Guys!

2007-07-08T09:40:00.000-07:00

We lost my beloved older brother suddenly on Friday. The family is devastated, but we will make it through. We have a good support system. He left a huge hole in our lives and we will miss him forever. I will be back later on, but I don't know when I will post again.

Love and peace. Tell your loved ones how much you love them. S.

One of those days.

2007-06-27T11:16:00.000-07:00

Ever had one? One of those days that you should have just stayed in bed? One of those days that no matter what you touched, you wrecked it? Oh, yeah, it is one of those for me today. I should have known within the first 2 minutes of getting out of bed at 5 AM!!! Couldn't sleep.....decided coffee must be made, but in the dark. I don't know why....it isn't worth the psychology probably needed to figure out why I do anything.... On the way to the kitchen in the dark, I accidentally kicked the cat AND knocked their water bowl into oblivion. Finally made it to the coffee pot after putting a towel on the worst of the cat bowl water mess....dropped the entire filter complete with old grounds onto the floor...and cabinet....and dishwasher.....and leg. Who knew that wet coffee grounds could fly that far? Dropped first cup of coffee on my other leg and remaining clean cabinets. Should I drive today? Reed knives are out of the question.

Here are my first pair of finished socks for Summer of Socks. :0)

Log Cabin socks from Handknit Holidays. This pattern was a fast knit in terms of time spent as it is a worsted weight. Not my normal weight for socks, but it was a gift from the Socks for Soldiers group owner and I am donating it back to go to a soldier. Most of my socks this summer will be going to that group or perhaps some sort of charity. I am thinking of cooking something up...stay tuned on that front.

She doesn't LOOK like a monster, does she? Her innocent look is her secret weapon. Don't let it fool ya.

Trying to take a bath.......it IS water. ;0)

I thought no one saved turtles anymore. I just read a friend's entry about how she saves turtles. I love that. I have always had a soft spot for them and stop whenever possible without risking life and limb. I recently stopped at a tollbooth on the turnpike to tell the tollbooth man about a turtle on the road. I only wanted to ask him to send someone to get the poor thing off of the turnpike before he gets killed or kills someone...(I am the only one who actually swerved) !!! I am sure from the look on his face that the tollbooth guy could only see a strange mad woman waving her hands around in the car speaking a launguage he obviously didn't understand ......TUR-TLE... TUR-TLE....OH God! What's the universal sign for turtle????........ Can't you see? It's a matter of turtle life and death?

Ship's Log: Saturday June 23, 2007ish

2007-06-23T14:45:00.000-07:00

Now I remember, this is a knitting blog.....see? I haven't forgotten. Here is Arrrgle Sock # 2 coming along slowly. hahahaha

And, yes, it is pink! And black and green.....It's the irony, you know? I know you know. ;0) and besides...I seem to have that color combination on the brain.

It is a little slow going as I dropped it for a few days to begin my first pair of socks for Summer of Socks. I couldn't start early, so....here ya go. Notice the date on the newspaper so casually placed below.

These will most likely be leisure socks sent to the Socks for Soldiers group along with the regulation socks always in progress. ALWAYS a pair of those on the needles. :0)

Here are my little termites. The pic of Hayley looks strange because it was actually taken upside down. That's how you find her most days. Welcome to my zoo....and this is only half of it.

Rain, rain....go away.......

2007-06-18T15:51:00.000-07:00

come again some other day.....(warning-sad news story ahead)

It rained 22 days here in May this year. So far in June it has rained ...well...I haven't kept track. I have never seen this much rain in this area before. Here are a few shots from inside my car as I drove into a storm cell.

This is the shot of the wall cloud after I drove under it. Remember, wall cloud-tornado-wall cloud-tornado.....luckily not so in this case. I had all my fingers and toes crossed.

This is the shot from inside the storm and the wall cloud in the rearview miror.

I show you these pictures for a reason. Last night I stayed up late reading. About 2am I woke up to the sound of thunder after nodding off while reading. Not unusual these days....the storm or the nodding off... I looked at the radar as I knew there was a slight possibility of rain. Looked like a storm was coming. Then the tornado alarms in the city starting wailing. Oh crap! These days it isn't even shocking anymore-I don't get panicked. Not a good thing. And honestly, we don't even know why the alarms sound anymore it happens so often. Severe storm? Tornado? Bombing raid? It's anyone's guess.......which is what I did last night. Guessed that it was a severe storm as there was no other media to help me out. Soon the sirens were quieted and I went to bed. No one else in the entire neighborhood...or my house..for that matter...woke up. Some of the smaller cities just 30 minutes north and east of here and 30 minutes south were severely flooded last night within a couple of hours. There were high water rescues and some lost their lives. Some of you have probably been watching this on the national news stations today. Unbelievable. Apparently we were right in the path of some of this, but for some reason it didn't rain as much here. Shocking to see just how fast that kind of a flood can happen unexpectedly. A little four year old girl, Alexandria Collins, was swept out of her mother's arms as she tried to rescue her children. They found her later after the father failed at an attept to save her. It was heart wrenching to see her aunt speak to news reporters about how they had no money to send this little girl to heaven. I want to put up the address of the funeral home that is taking donations for her family....just in case. My heart goes out to her family.

Alpine Funeral Home
2300 N. Sylvania Ave.
Fort Worth, 76111
817-834-4116

AAArrrrgggh!.......tennis, anyone?

2007-06-11T14:29:00.000-07:00

This pattern is so much fun! After all those years of wanting to knit argyles and not having the nerve for intarsia...here we are.

I have a suspicion that argyles may be on the short list this summer...a lot! I found a couple of 50's sock booklets and they are really neat. Once you get the hang..no pun intended...of the bobbins, it is smooth sailing. ...no pun intended, again. heh heh What the h%^*l is wrong with me today? I think I have been in the house too long. Schmami!??? You out there? I need a drink!

There are some great tutorials that Zarzuela and Moth Heaven (creator of the Arrrgyle sock) have mentioned on their blogs. There is also another site I found this weeekend called........ ASS. Sounds like the perfect site for me. Awww, it actually stands for Argyle Sock Support. It is a group of knitters that get together and knit argyles. They have mentioned a couple of books that I am interested in browsing. One in particular is a book of color plates picturing Scottish clans and tartans. Great colors. Interesting close-ups. heh Just go see what I mean. That's all I'm sayin'.

Here are some little stitch markers that I just got from DesignsbyTami.etsy.com.

Aren't they adorable? Look at that little face!

A little lace weight merino on my new Granny Forrester spindle. I have another cop on another spindle that I will ply with this one as soon as I finish the roving. It is amazing how far that stuff goes when you spin lace weight. And how tired your arm gets when using a spindle.....

You have to do WHAT??? tomorrow?

2007-05-31T13:43:00.000-07:00

My mom gave us all a scare recently when she had to go in and have a procedure done for her heart!!!! She called me and calmly informed me that she would be going in the hospital the next day instead of coming for a visit!!! Good God! It took a few minutes to sink in. You have to do WHAT tomorrow? I drove out the next morning and thank God all is extremely well. Except my frayed nerves. ;0) We knew something was going on when we took the Hawaii trip, but we weren't sure what it was. Now we do. Whew!!!

Summer is for buying...right?

A little stash enhancement recently. Kidsilk Haze and lorna's Laces. I was staying at home minding my own business and pretending there WASN'T a 35% off sale going on at one of the LYS. And who called me to make sure I knew? Thanks, Ceci. I even waited until the last possible hour to ensure that the things I wanted were gone. Oh, no!! There they were on the shelf where last I saw them, patiently waiting. Kind of makes me wonder if I have weird taste.

Also ordered a "few" spindles recently.

These are some Forrester spindles I received from The Spinning Bunny. She has great customer service and lightening fast shipping. These are a Granny of canary wood and black walnut 26.19 grams, a white oak and cherry Linum 34.1 grams, and a purple heart and walnut Linum 20.69g. earmarked for some silk soon. I LOVE Forrester spindles. They spin incredibly well and are so smooth. I may even have another one or so on the way. ;0)

I have been able to get a little knitting done lately. I have been enamored with all of the argyle sock knitting going on. Zarzuela has been doing this! Aren't they great? I have always been interested in knitting some, but when I saw these I knew I had to go for it. The girl is a genius and she has a great tutorial on argyles. Here is my first attempt.

Ummm, more like a swatch. I was intending it to be the first sock, but when I had to go back for a problem, I decided not to unravel full rows. OOpps! Because on the way back I seemed to have missed making a row somewhere on one side...soooo. It is a swatch. (Note to self-in intarsia frog full rows) I was also not completely satisfied with the stranding/intarsia of the skull. I tried some of each and each reacts differently to being stretched as a sock will. So, I will try again, maybe in different girlie colors.

Also, have been working on Elizabeth I.

This is a hard yarn to photograph, but here is the best I could get. I am no artist when it comes to photography. Oh, yes the desire is there....just like the desire is there to be a famous rock singer.......I am embarrassingly bad at both. I have come to a quiet acceptance of this. It does not, however, keep me from singing in the car at full, eardrum shattering capacity. Sarah MacLachlan, I love you. Or does it keep me from continuously taking bad photos to show you. :0)

One of my dearest and long-time friends, Susan, was in town from Colorado....we went for a drive in the country to see what we could see. And we did see....and laughed and laughed. You really have no idea what you will find in the East Texas back roads. This is but a small sample. And now, for your "only in Texas" shot of the week. I give you......redneck indoor pool.

We also went shopping. Whew.....thank God they had these labeled.

No, seriously, do they really need to label these like this? A whole section of it in the craft store. And do people really use this sh%^&t?????

And I guess this guy's winter sale must have been successful. I will be watching for a summer sale......or is that his busy season-no sales needed? Eeeeek!

Almost done!

2007-05-09T11:59:00.000-07:00

No, not another finished knit....I wish! Almost done with the symphony season and also with teaching private lessons in school. No more driving and schlepping my instrument and tools around!!!! In crappy waether. Yipppeee! My back could really use the break from the load....because of course, I can't pack lightly even if it is only for a few hours.

Usually the season winds up with a wimper, but not this year! As soon as I returned home from my vacation it has been full steam ahead. Beethoven's Ninth Symphony up in Sherman..

....then a Cinco de Mayo concert in Tyler with East Texas! And not an easy concert as one might dare to assume. Unbelievable rhythms and fun counting.We hosted Jeff Nevin and the Mariachi Champana Nevin. Here they are in rehearsal minus Jeff.....

don't know why I didn't get a picture of him.....was probably too busy drooling over him when he came out. heh heh The whole female portion of the orchestra was having a little difficulty concentrating....heh heh Look here to see him. He's the one in the chair...............I am JUST KIDDING!!!! That's Charles Bruck. Jeff is the one standing. The pic doesn't do him justice, by the way. ;0) Anyhow, I digress....they were terrific. The orchestra had as much fun as the audience.

So, I have had the Jamieson & Smith discontinued colors on my mind a lot lately. I have poured over the color cards comparing them to Jamieson's and Campion......It seems that I have had them on my mind a little TOO much, actually, and I am starting to think in jumper weight color terms. Here is proof. What did I see when I woke up the day after yet another bad storm that has gone through here in the last few weeks?

The pool had turned into a swamp overnight!!!! FC11 I believe...........

Here are some more pictures of the storms and their havoc.
driving

my poor tree

tree again :0(

I was caught in the worst storm on one of the metro freeways. Hail, flood..........late to the rehearsal.....agony. But, at least the lakes have water again..... ;0)

Oh!!! And my SoDaWL....still going...and....going....

Where in the hell?????

2007-04-24T12:22:00.000-07:00

Have I been? Again? Have a look for yourself. I have so much to tell you.

I spent a little time in Honolulu, Hawaii. Ahhhh, the sun, the sand......the breezes, the ocean, rainbows....a beautiful place. This was the fourth or fifth time for me, but it has been a while. We actually lived there when I was a little girl, but I don't remember much. Hell, I don't remember much now........ heh heh It was hard to come home. Back to real life and work issues.......Do any of you get depressed after a vacation, or is it just me?

I tried to find a knitting store there and took a long walk in the direction of the place I found in the yellow pages.........I ended up sunburned in crack alley...........oh yeah. Why I do not call first, I do not know. The right address looked like a massage parlor and those guys out front weren't selling leis.........heh heh

I met a Hawaiian soldier returning to Ft. Leonard Wood to start school after a couple of tours in Iraq. We talked for a few minutes in the LAX airport and he showed me some pics he took in Iraq. Stunning pictures. Pictures that make you think and pictures that really tell the truth about what is happenening over there. I will blame it on lack of sleep....but all I could ask was "Was it hard over there?" As soon as it was out I felt like an idiot. Of course it was hard.......dumbass. He nodded his head and I saw the pain and remembrance in his eyes that you don't usually see in such a young person. To meet one of these men makes the war so much more personal for those of us who may not live near bases or have daily contact with those who are fighting this war. Thanks Adam from Hawaii, for sharing a little of your story with me. I enjoyed meeting you.

Speaking of soldiers...Chuck, I hope you are doing well now that you are home!!! :0) I got word that your box was returned from Socks For Soldiers...so it looks like the new chaplain didn't get it. It's too bad, but I am sure that the owner of the group will see thaat she gets some out there somehow.

Oh crap! looks like we are under a tornado warning........GEEEEZ! Gotta love Texas. It is thundering and lightening..perhaps a little hail coming.........and I should probably turn off the Mac...but what the hell? Yikes...getting very dark and loud outside.

I had a birthday. No, I won't tell. Don't ask. ;0) Here is the honored guest, Captain Underpants, in his tighty whities. I found him passed out on the back porch after the party. I thought he was getting a little heavy on the vodka.

I took some knitting with me on vacation, but didn't get a lot done. I did get some work done before I left, however. Here is the Season of Darkness and Winter Light out of the Norsk strikkedesign book. About half way done on the second half. Much slowere than anticipated....but when ISN'T it?? Uhhh...this storm is really getting bad. Pics later. Better get off of here and shut it down!!!!

On this episode of Yarn Hoarder

2007-03-21T12:14:00.000-07:00

I had the great fortune to be able to take a class on color knittting with Joan Schrouder this weekend. I was THRILLED!!!! I had to play in Tyler with the "Beatles" (cover band)

and so I missed her Friday class on lace. Not happy about that, but hey! Work? Play? Work? Play? Which one pays the bills? So, I did sneak into the color class at the last minute on Saturday when someone cancelled. It was very interesting to me to see how she had the class structured and how she handles teaching new techniques. There was something for everyone to learn whether beginner or long time color knitter. I was particularly interested in the crocheted steeks and of course, how she handles her two strands. Since I have knit in a vacuum for so long without any other Fair Islers around to teach me, I was extremely glad to see how someone elses color work looks in person after blocked. The samples she brought were fabulous, including Abalone and several of her design. They were all wonderful. I should have taken more pictures!!!!

I also came home with this fabulous bag that I think is perfection for carrying socks in progress around in style. :0)

And I also grabbed a pair of Addi lace circs to see how they compare. Just in looking, I think I will really like the pointy tips. I have some lace stuff that is screaming at me to get started and done, and I think I will have to comply.

A little further on the Season of Darkness and Winter Light from Norsk Strikkedesign. I really love this design. I am almost up to the underarm steek on the second side. It is going to be a little strange to put this thing together as the directions are not like any I have ever seen. I will keep you updated on it. Hopefully this doesn't turn into a really wooly pillow!

Socks, socks, socks and sock yarn. Eunny's Bayerische still moving along at a ridiculously slow pace.

Rainy Day Socks from Mag Knits in Lorna's Laces Sherbet.

Cherry Tree Hill yarn from Socks For Soldiers. No idea what the color is. Looks like Halloween something....not sure. Will have to find a not-so-scary pattern. ;0)

Lorna's Laces in Red Rover and Irving Park. They look GREAT!!! I secured these from one of my favorite stores on the web, Loopy Ewe!

Look who's come out of hiding....

2007-03-14T08:04:00.000-07:00

it's the Season of Darkness and Winter Light. Trying to get her finished, but I fear it is too late for this season anyway. Nevertheless, it is a design I am eager to wear. I am on the second half, but will still have cabled cuffs and bands to go once I get this done.

I am working on some new socks out of Lorna's Laces Shepherd Sport. The design is called Rainy Day Socks and I found it at Magknits. I changed the cast on #'s quite a bit as I wanted the fabric knit a lot tighter than what it called for. I used 72 instead of 48 and am using much smaller needles. I like the way it is turning out so far. Pics to come as soon as there is something interesting to see. :0)

A little more spinning happening at chez sillyewe as well. This is from Somerhill Farm in Ohio.

It is a gorgeous shade of orange with a touch of fire engine red occasionally. It is from her Bluefaced Leicester flock. I ordered a ton of it and I am very glad about that. I intend to use it for something special......just not sure what yet....

As promised....more pics of birch. This is such a girlie shade of pink.

NOW FOR THE BEST NEWS OF ALL!!! I told you about the soldier in Iraq I have corresponded with??? remember...two entries or so ago? I got word today that he is going home!!! I am so thrilled for him! Congrats, Chuck! I know you and your unit and your families are ecstatic! I have so enjoyed getting to know you. Have a safe journey and I hope this will be a wonderful new chapter of your life adventure. Thanks for bestowing your friendship and sharing your knowledge.

Parting is such sweet sorrow.....

2007-03-05T12:30:00.000-08:00

Even though this reed has some obvious flaws...at least to an oboist...this was one great reed! Every now and then you get one that you would like to use forever, or at least bronze. This was one of those. Deep and rich, flexible.....singing quality...Unfortunately, they don't tend to last much longer than a few good rehearsals or concerts. I'm going to miss you little reed. (sniff sniff)

Here is my reed thread drawer. It looks suspiciously unorganized like my yarn room.....

I heard on NPR recently that unorganization could mean you are just creative. Did I already tell you that? Well.....I think there must be some truth in that. Right? Right???

"What's Cookin'?"

2007-03-04T08:52:00.000-08:00

That's what my brother always asks me. Knowing my lack of culinary skills he isn't usually asking what is in the oven or on the stove. Well...it's not exactly a lack thereof....just not a burning desire to make use of the limited skills I possess. Unless we are talking baking....and chocolate....and butternut squash. Not necessarly in combination......but it makes me wonder....

Anyway, to what's cookin'. I recently let you all in on the bead knitting I have fallen in love with. I have been in touch with Herma of Kralenwerk in the Netherlands. She has been pointing me in the right direction with books, supplies and a little encouragement to get started. She has an online shop with everything one needs to knit beads. Look at this beautiful coffee table book she has on her site.

It has a great deal of history and some gorgeous patterns in it. It is written in German but is out of print. Turns out that most of this traditional knitting of beadwork comes from the Netherlands, but also from near the area in Germany where V. comes from. Isn't that interesting? I would never have known that had I not started reading this book. They apparently produced these beads in the 19th and 20th centuries around that area. I would suspect that many of the beads that came to North America for trade with Native Americans came from this area...but I haven't confirmed it. Just a suspicion.

Sock knitting continues.....

it is a constant these days along with whatever other knitting seems to be catching my divided attention at the moment. Birch is moving along and will be done soon. Just in time for the last subscription concert in April, I hope. It's Beethoven 3!!!!! Whhhhheeeee! Eroica!!!!! I have been waiting all year to play this one with this orchestra. I have played it twice previously, but never with this group.

Last weekend I played up in a small town north of here. Here are some of us between rehearsals having dinner. I am behind the camera, you see. ;0)

On the drive up we encountered a dust storm. I had seen them before in New Mexico, but never here. You could see the sky begin to turn yellow and before long the dust came in. At first a little...

Then a LOT!!!

I started panicking seeing visions of pile-ups dancing in my head. One of my passengers mentioned quietly that we COULD slow down if I wanted........oh yeah. Of course. Take your foot OFF of the accelerator, dumb$%#S!!!

I finally also finished spinning and plying the Platinum from mama-E. Here it is in all of it's glory.

I haven't figured yardage yet, but I think I will try something lacy. It is merino and tencel...so no socks here. I made some socks last year with a 100% merino wool and ran holes in them the second wearing. The pattern was fairly intricate. :0(

So, did you guys see that Ennio Morricone got an honorary Academy Award!!!!!! I was so thrilled for him. His music is just marvelous and I don't believe he has been recognized nearly enough for his work. If you haven't heard Gabriel's Oboe....run out and buy the Mission soundtrack right now. Go on...I'll wait! It is a heartwrenchingly beautiful short piece that many of you may have heard at the 911 memorial when it was televised. Yeah, I am biased because it is an oboe....but still! It's too good not to mention.

And another work week begins.....

Not just good news, GREAT NEWS!

2007-02-14T20:52:00.000-08:00

So, do you guys remember the Socks For Soldiers that I was working on a while back? Remember?

Well, this weekend I got an email from one of the soldiers who received a pair of my socks along with the legendary photo album. heh heh I was really hoping that they would go to someone who has a sense of humor since I risked life and limb getting some of those pictures....(not really). And they did!! He is a chaplain in the Army in Iraq right now and he has a huge sense of humor. As a matter of fact, he is just huge, period.

They were not small socks, so I was expecting at least a six foot soldier to fit into them........or a rather odd looking short man. Either way..... ;0) Anyhow, here are some of the pics he sent. I laugh every time I look at them. This is him with his assistant/bodyguard. He says she's amazing at her job. It is such a treat finding out where these little bridges across the world end up. And it is an honor and priviledge to be able to meet some of these guys putting their lives on the line every day. Thanks, Chuck, for extending your friendship.

She's Psychic...again

2007-02-03T11:53:00.001-08:00

;0) First and foremost, I want to thank my SP9 Pal Michelle, for being such a great secret pal.

It has been a blast and I am enjoying getting to know you immensely. Look at this wonderful stuff she sent me!!! It is like the girl is psychic! I had been looking at the chart holder from Knitpicks....

Check.
The Alpaca Cloud....

check.
Wonderful lip balm from Bath and Body...check.
And her marvelously sinful truffle recipe. Oh, wow!!! Thanks Michelle!!!!!!!

We woke up to this

on Friday. Unfortunately, school was still in, but I only had a couple of lessons anyway, so it was an easy day. Came home to a fire, coffee and much knitting. This is all I have wanted for weeks. It isn't much to ask, is it? Here is my progress:

Birch in Kidsilk Haze pink with beads added in as I go. It's about halfway finished so far.

And this sock.

I have now fallen into the deep dark well of bead knitting. Always loved beading....and knitting. Why not combine them and make myself more miserable? heh heh I am using 0000 needles, silk and size 11 beads. Welcome to my world of insanity. I think I will be experimenting for a while, but I have supplies now for a nice sized purse. Wish me luck and much mental health.

Fritz and Mia enjoying the warmth inside.

Stay of Execution

2007-01-17T06:34:00.000-08:00

That's what this feels like. It was a grueling rehearsal last night and I couldn't figure out how to juggle a day's worth of oboe students, practice for tonight's rehearsal, and of course, the inevitable reedmaking. Then this!!! Wow, did the forecasters really miss this one. HA! There is a God. I know all of you up north are laughing your as#@s off, but have you ever tried to drive on ice with TEXANS? It isn't pretty. It is, however, funny...if you are not actually on the roadway. While I was in college in Colorado people would actually stay a safe distance from me when they saw my license plate. At least I hope it was my license and not my driving...hmmm....I will pretend it was my license plate. Anyway, rehearsal is cancelled as well as anything else fun. Looks like I got my reprieve.

So, Carrie...you think these are medieval instruments? Check these out!

These are my Ross gougers. The brass is a newer one and the aluminum is an older but better gouger. I use them to turn this

into this.

...well...eventually. Anonymous...does your brother still play? What a horrendous thing to happen. Ugh! I have had some accidents, but none so bad. I was once teaching a little 10 year old boy for the first time and I started making reeds right before he and his dad arrived. As they arrived I sliced through my thumb with my razor knife. I think I hit an artery and almost bled out before his lesson was over. Looked like a murder scene even with me trying to pretend it wasn't happening. I was shocked when he actually came back the next week....."Look little boy. Look what you have to look forward to for the rest of your life. That trumpet looks pretty good now, doesn't it?"

I am starting another Birch shawl since I gave my black one away. This one is a very light shade of pink and I am adding beads as I go. What do you think? I tried smaller, but it just didn't work for me.

In panic mode.....

2007-01-16T08:51:00.000-08:00

Why is it that making these takes years off of my life? Surely the fact that I am such a procrastinator has nothing to do with it.....and not much to do this past Sunday..and Monday except a little teaching. Damn procrastination. Damn these pieces! Have you heard Rachmaninow's (yes I know it isn't the Americanized spelling) Symphonie in e minor? The third movement is just glorious...the rest of the piece is brutal. I am going to die tonight. Of my own accord or having a baton stuck in my eye? Which, I am not sure of yet.

A drawer full of sharpening stones, ceramic sticks.....knives......I WANTED to play flute. That was my first choice. Damn band director. I was tricked into the oboe, you see. "Well...only smart kids can play oboe" he said. I fell for it...proving, of course, that I WASN'T!!! Apparently, I am still not. ;0) Gotta go practice.......

Ice, ice, baby????

2007-01-15T13:41:00.000-08:00

What a lame ass ice storm! We had all gotten ready for an evening of freezing rain, slick streets....and whatever else Mother Nature could throw at us......this morning I crawled out of bed to the coffee pot and to the window......in that order...to see what she had left. Nada. Oh, sure, the newscasters made it look horrendous. It's their job. And they almost had me for awhile until the coffee began to work it's magic. I don't see clearly until at least my second cup. And I suppose it may have been worse before noon........

Thanks for the comments and emails, you guys! It WAS a fun show. And now I am sure that everyone else on the planet already knows of them...or at least all of you freaks do. ;0) I think this next weekend will be a great concert as well. We have a conducting symposium on Sunday after the concert and we will be playing some wonderful chamber music there. Dvorak Wind Serenade. It's one of my favorite pieces to play. Anyone know it? It has fantastic oboe parts. Then later in the month we are playing Pictures at an Exhibition and Peter and the Wolf for a family concert.

Hey, Carrie! It's Zephyr. I got the Peacock color, of course, and I also snagged some sage. They are both gorgeous and I think I will enjoy working with them....when I get around to it. And there was some more Kidsilk that I failed to admit to. Pink. Just wanna come clean here.

Tigers....c'mon...chocolate? What are you thinking??? There are things to give up and there are things...well, look, chocolate is just not an option. I know what the Cadbury chocolate factories are like down there in Oz, remember? I filled my M.C. Hammer pants pockets full with it during a tour.......Oh, God! Did I just say that out loud? Do you think there's a Statute of Limitations on chocolate theivery? You're setting yourself up, girl!!! So, I hear the bush fires are getting pretty ugly this summer. Is Adelaide dodging them so far? God, I miss that city. I really do.......hope you are safe and sound. The hats are just a skein of Noro each. Really simple and fast. The pink is for one of my oboe colleagues I played with this weekend.

Here is a little link my buddy sent me today. I'm looking at the fuschia myself......

Where the hell.......

2007-01-14T10:05:00.000-08:00

have I been? I know that's what you are thinking. Once November hit, I dropped out of site...get it? Ok, anyhow. Still on the busy symphony schedule these days, but GUESS WHO I PLAYED WITH THIS WEEKEND?????? I will give you a hint...Love Potion # 9. Got it? Another one? Henry the VIII. No not the sweater...the SONG! God, you knitters have one track minds. Well, the Divas of the Las Colinas Orchestra heh heh

....remember us? played with HERMAN'S HERMITS this weekend. It was such an amazing time. I think many of you will know who they are...I must admit, I didn't really have much of a clue. I'd heard the name, heard the songs...but didn't make the addition to put the two together. I never was good at math. And considering that I was probably conceived to one of their songs in the 60's...you can't really blame me for not knowing EXACTLY who they are, can you. ;0) Peter Noone is truly a great performer. He had the crowd going strong last night and there was a definite electricity in the air. The hall was full of middle age ladies known as Noonatics. heh heh I just found that out. There were actually many men and lots of younger people as well....but the vast majority...well...you know. The show was supposed to be sold out, but unfortunately, due to the forcasted ice storm many people ended up opting to stay off of the roads. Too bad, their loss. Chris Pati of N.Y., where most of the band is based, has recently written arrangements to many of the Herman's Hermits hits and he conducted us as well. He was such a dynamo and obviously had a blast at the concerts. Not sure if this was his first symphony gig with them, but great job Chris! We loved ya! And by the way...where's my damn umbrella? ;0) heh heh Have safe travels on to your next gigs, guys! Too bad I didn't get some pics with you. Go and check out his site if ya get a minute.

Next week I am on to Tyler to play principal with the East Texas Symphony for the weekend. Our conductor, Per Brevig, flies in from New York where he teaches at Julliard and Mannes. He was principal trombone with the NY Met for many years and he is an unbelievable musician and maestro. I have learned so much from being under his baton these last few years. Dallas and the surrounding areas are still a great place for a musician to still make a living...however meager....being a musician. Yeah, we all teach a bazillion lessons and work ridiculous hours...but it is part of the gig. The travel is fun. And I wouldn't trade it......at least not today.

Ok, on to knitting content. I am so out of the Knit From your Stash-along it isn't even funny. I was was out the first week of the year. I have no self control....but haven't we already established that long ago? So here are a few pics of some finished things...small things...some ongoing projects, and some stash and things I couldn't live without. Oh yeah.

And I will leave you with a few pictures of the hood wrapped in ice. It's really very pretty and as long as I have a fire in the fireplace....all is well.

Warning!!!! Heavy picture post ahead!

2006-12-28T07:05:00.000-08:00

Hi, guys! It's been a while, hasn't it? After my long Christmas rush I settled in for a long winter's nap...but instead I immediately got nasty sick. Or nasty and sick....whatever! :0) Anyhow, it happens every year at this time, and you'd think I would learn not to burn the candle at both ends, BUT! No. I like my routine. heh So, I have spent the past couple of weeks trying to repair myself. Good news, I was able to get some knitting and spinning done in the meantime. Bad news, all the yarn stores are having sales and I haven't been yet!!! I need to get my last stash enhancement in as I think I may join Wendy's Knit From Your stash 2007.

I THINK. Honest to God, I don't know if I have the willpower.

Note: sock yarns do not count.

On an even brighter note, I received a package from my SP!!! She is the BEST!!! She went above and beyond. Thanks, SP!Look at this stuff. I have been admiring Arctic Lace online and here it is!!!

It is a very interesting read, I might add. And look at the Alpaca! Can't wait to spin this!

Bath and Body, my fave!

One of the best gifts was for my two pals Fritz and Mia. It squeaks like a mouse and Mia will play with it forever. It has been hilarious.

And last but not least. Truffles!!!!!! Homemade truffles. I can't show you because we ate them immediately....like the gluttons we are. But, believe me, they were amazing. The peppermint truffles were to die for. My mouth is watering again just thinking of them! Thanks again, SP!!!! REALLY! I can't wait to find out who you are.

Here is the platinum from Mama-E all spun and plied.

It is 50/50 merino and tencel. I am thinking of a lace shawl or scarf with this depending on my yardage. The sheen on this is just stunning.

And socks, socks, socks. This is the heel on some socks I should be finishing this weekend.

Notice the needles?

They are Celtic Swan Needles made of sterling in size 0. They are a dream to knit with. Yes, they do bend a little if you aren't careful. I am a super tight knitter with a death grip on my needles, so it has helped me lessen the mongo-grip a little to knit with these. Amazingly, it is a little more comfortable to knit. Imagine that.
;0) I also received some in the bronze that she makes, but I have yet to try them. They are gorgeous as well!

I haven't cast on for the Zauberflote, yet. Surprised? Yeah, me, too. I am still working on my SoDaWL and Elizabeth I. and Luskentyre.....and the list goes on and on............but now that I have a little taste for finished objects...I think I may finish one or two more before the cast-on. :0) Maybe.

And in closing, here is a little shot I found as we headed out to my family for Christmas. heh I couldn't resist it, you know me.

I scream, you scream...

2006-12-06T09:47:00.000-08:00

We all scream for ice cream! :0) She loves it. Who would have thought it? They are supposedly lactose intolerant, so quantities are severely limited, but she fights for it.

Here are my shots of the Rheingold as promised. Blocking and modeled for Brigitte. :0) I still need to go back and block the cuffs and neck smaller, but I am happy overall. I blocked it a bit larger, but I can't stand tight fitting pullovers! Ugh! Makes me clausterphobic.

Question for all you Fair Islers....when you finish the steeks inside, do you only grab the floats or a little of the stitch underneath, too?

Here is a little more of the Latvian sock. Things are getting really busy, so I am still knitting on the fly. It's ok. Need more practice time, huh, Ceci??? heh heh I am about to tackle that 6/8 lick.......

Oh! And the Platinum. Finished one bobbin and am on to the next. I am dying to see this finished. I think I may order more for a shawl or something else. Lovely sheen on this, isn't it?

Two days late.......but ...ahhhwell.....

2006-12-03T18:30:00.000-08:00

Here is the finished Rheingold unblocked. I will post more pics as I block it tomorrow or the next day. I am so thrilled to have her done, done, DONE!!!!

Lots of updates and pics to come this week. Marina, I hope you are feeling better! I am worried about you.

A day late and a dollar short

2006-11-22T14:43:00.000-08:00

Or more. Here are a couple of pics I promised. Rheingold Sleeve #2.

Season of Darkness and Winter Light Sleeve #2.

And here is the heel flap on the Latvian Sock. Isn't that pretty how it works out so symmetrically on the back? This color is a little better than the last shot, but still not right. Think pumpkin pie.

And Brigitte, here is the shot for you. Probably not what you were expecting, but I thought it would be funny for you to see it.

Time flies

2006-11-20T17:27:00.000-08:00

in November. It seems like it was just Halloween and now..look at this. No post in two weeks! What is going on with that? Gotta make the money when you can, and this is high season for musicians. Knitting is just stolen time these days, but I have managed to get a little in here and there. :0) Lots of Christmas present knitting going on. And look at this! This is Platinum from Mama-E.

It is just as shiny and lovely as it looks on the monitor. It looks very much like my cat Mia who would NOT be photographed with it. I followed her around with a camera and handful of the fiber waiting for the right shot in just the right light......but she got tired of the Paparazzi action and lashed out-like any starlet would. No pictures...PLEASE! I was not the winner in that scuffle.

I have been doing a little sock knitting on the side as I can carry it from job to job easily. Here is my Bayerische

and Latvian socks from Folk Socks by Nancy Bush. This is more of a pumpkin or paprika shade rather than the glaringly hunter-safety-orange that it looks like in this photo.

And for my Fair Isle friends.....more pictures to follow tomorrow. :0) I have a special one for you, Brigitte!

New Post!!!

2006-11-04T12:03:00.000-08:00

Can you believe it? I bet you thought I had disappeared, didn't you? At times I actually thought about doing just that....but..ahhh, well, I would just get busy there, too. My family says it is in my personality. I think they are correct. Thanks for still emailing and messaging me. :0) It makes the busy times easier to bear.

WHAT have I been busy with, you ask? Well, take a look.

I have been finishing Socks for Soldiers. I got them finished at 11:57 Halloween night and overnighted the next day. Whew! That was close. They had to be in Ohio on Thursday. I had decided that instead of just sending some socks along to the soldiers, I would use the Yarn Harlot's idea of taking pics with socks and make a sock-picture diary. That way the soldiers can see where their sock came from and who the socks met along the way. The response was fantastic and I was amazed at how much people wanted a chance to show the soldiers that they were thinking of them. I asked many complete strangers to take pictures with my socks and everyone was thrilled....except the fire department...which has some stupid rules about pictures and city property...but that's another story. Better luck next time, guys. Here are some of the pictures of the places and the people my socks went and met. See the B.A.C.A. (Bikers Against Child Abuse) group? One of the ladies actually KISSED the sock when she found out where it was going. Is that love for our guys or what? They were fantastic. Thanks, B.A.C.A.!!!

Enjoy the pictures!!! :0)

Here are the albums all finished and just about ready to go along with the socks. The very BIG black socks.

Goodies for my soldiers.

Dalls skyline.......in a rush. :0) Notice I am not even at the heel yet...and that was on two socks. I actually FINISHED those socks THAT night! Thank GOD Michele, my lifesaver was driving. Thanks, Michele! I love you.

Sock waiting for the concert to begin from an oboist's perspective......more people DID show up than that, ok??? I know it looks lame in this pic......

B.A.C.A. (Bikers Against Child Abuse) These guys rock!!! Thanks, guys!

Starbucks friendlies. :0) I'd smile, too, if I worked there and could coffee all day. Thanks, guys!

AND!!!!! My secret pal has struck!!! Look at this booty! Whoooohoooo! Speaking of booty, look at that chocolate. MMMM mmmm, good. And that yarn is so beautiful. I hope you are having a blast in Venice. Am I turning green????? Wow!!! What a vacation. You go girl! hahahah Thanks secret pal. I think I will save the glow necklace.......hmmmmm....when to use it. heh heh

P.S. Good to be back...I have missed you guys!! :0)

I'm dreaming...

2006-10-20T14:17:00.000-07:00

of a new project.

Main Entry: suc·cumb
Function: intransitive verb
Etymology: French & Latin; French succomber, from Latin succumbere, from sub- + -cumbere to lie down; akin to Latin cubare to lie
Date: 1604
1 : to yield to superior strength or force or overpowering appeal or desire
2 : to be brought to an end (as death) by the effect of destructive or disruptive forces

I haven't. Yet. Shhh.socks don't count. I am thinking of this Isn't it gorgeous? Romi, was that you who showed this to me? I adore it. I will be making it in this.

It is color Splendor and I love how bright it is. I am sure I will look jaundiced, but hey, who cares? And besides, I usually work in flourescent lighting, so who the hell is going to notice anyway? :0) Recently, Brigitte asked me about needles I use for Kidsilk Haze. I love the old nylon needles...you remember? The ones you inherited from your grandmother? The ones at every garage sale between here and Zimbabwe? Yeah, those. They have become a hot commodity these days, so if you see them at that garage sale, snap them up. Push down that lady in the corner looking at them and run like hell. They'll chase you for them. I'm tellin' ya, they're hot. Or....did they just chase me because I pushed that little lady down.................I dunno. Try them. That's all I'm sayin'.

Voila! A couple more rows.

At this rate they certainly won't be Christmas presents. It sure is a fun knit, however. The crossed stitches are divine and I think the way that Eunny designed the increases to make the pattern flow out of the ribbing is very clever. All is right with my world when the ribbing matches the design. I don't ask for much. Also, Janet asked about yarn. This is Opal, and it is on the thinner side of sock yarns. I am using 2mm needles, so I needed it. I am a TIGHT knitter. Comes with the personality type........I am not saying it. You can THINK it, just don't say it out loud. Hey, people, I am an OBOIST. What kind of personality do you think I have? ;0) Rhetoricaal question there.

Can't be bothered...

2006-10-18T08:51:00.000-07:00

Can't be bothered to even move for food. This is the life. Fritz in the background and Mia up front-as usual. We got Mia when our other cat passed away from complications due to diabetes. Fritz mourned for him and his entire face actually turned white like an old cat. We brought Mia home and he preteded to be disgusted, but his face returned to his natural black color. He still pretends to be disgusted.....but I know differently. ;0)

Here is the beginning of my Bayerische sock from Eunny Jang. This thing is amazingly tiny and very fun to knit though it takes a lot of concentration until you get the pattern down. I had a hard time deciding on color, but finally went with an apple green. I have this thing for that color right now...that and orange. Who'd a thunk it? My two least favorite colors and now I can't get enough of them.

Rheingold is still ongoing and progressing and so is Season. Good thing because I have already spied at least two more sweaters I would like to do. heh

Trick or treat!

2006-10-15T15:39:00.000-07:00

Somehow, I always thought it would be much larger.......and not made of canvas...and with a little bit of a garden. So much for assumptions. I do see, however, that it does indeed have many rooms. I did expect that...since that was what I read somewhere once or twice. I do not remember anything about outhouses. I opted out of the free tour and kept the car running since those people seemed to kept in place by something that looks suspiciously like crime scene tape. Somehow, I figured I wouldn't get what I bargained for.

In between the concert and the rehearsal, my friend Elvan and I slipped away to a nearby knitting store. I bought sock yarn. I had already been there the day previously. I bought sock yarn. I started a sock in said sock yarn.

It's going to be this! Oh, Eunny! Must you tempt me with your beautiful designs? I have always had a soft spot for traveling stitches. I bought Uberlieferte Strickmuster aus dem steirischen Ennstal a couple of years ago. It is a three book set written in German about the Bavarian/Austrian traveling stitch patterns. They are really wonderful eye candy books and full of information-if you have a German in the house. ;0) Anyway, it IS

you know.

SoDaWL is moving along nicely. Well, for me, anyway. It's raining today which means there is lots o' knitting and eating of Butternut squash soup going on in this place. Mmmmmmm.

Sleeve Two

2006-10-13T12:25:00.000-07:00

Here are some shots of the arm # 2 and my second pair of Socks for Soldiers.

Check out the three needle bind off on the shoulder. I love this bind off.

Making up for lost time

2006-10-07T18:43:00.000-07:00

Third post-same day. making up for lost time away from blogland. Voila! One collar. I even tried her on for size, but I looked ridiculous with only one arm and a pointy shoulder. My husband made some fairly shallow Madonna references and ....well......anyway. These purl rows take me forever, but they are worth the trouble. The effect is beautiful. Carrie was just mentioning how much time hers is taking on Mary Tudor. BTW, it looks fabulous, Carrie! Go have a look.

SP 9 Questionnaire

2006-10-07T14:00:00.001-07:00

1. What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with? What fibers do you absolutely *not* like? I absolutely hate acrylic yarns. I love anything wool and don’t really have a favorite as I am constantly finding new yarns I like. Right now I am working with some Virtual Yarns Hebridean and some Norwegian Rauma yarns that I really like. I do have a special place in my heart for Kidsilk Haze.

2. What do you use to store your needles/hooks in? I have a giant bin that I store most of the straight and circulars in and a little heart shaped box for the double points. I guess that tells you what kind of a ridiculous collection I have. I just hate to go out and buy new needles when I want to cast on NOW!

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 since about 1988 ish. One of my best friends (whose mom is a Master Knitter) taught me the first bits and I picked up everything else along the way, but mostly from books. I guess I am advanced.

4. Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list? Not anymore. I think I will make one.

5. What's your favorite scent? (for candles, bath products, etc.) Oh, boy, I love just about anything Bath and Body, especially their Stress Relief scent. I was in yesterday for the Columbus Day sale and they have some amazing new cinnamony things. There are not many scents that I don’t like....and they don't usually make those into home fragrances, if ya know what I mean.

6. Do you have a sweet tooth? Favorite candy? Uh, yea, that is a positive. Love Haribo Fizzy Cola and Haribo Bears, Lemon Heads and chocolate. Did I say chocolate?

7. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do? Do you spin? I am a spinner and I love to make bobbin lace and tat as well.

8. What kind of music do you like? Can your computer/stereo play MP3s? (if your buddy wants to make you a CD) I like it all! Yes, I can play it on my computer or stereo.

9. What's your favorite color(s)? Any colors you just can't stand? I adore purple. Love purple. Never met a color I didn’t like.

10. What is your family situation? Do you have any pets? I have been married to a crazy foreigner for about 5 years and we have two cats and two birds...all of whom desire our full attention at all times. :0)

11. Do you wear scarves, hats, mittens or ponchos? Yes, yes, and no. I don’t need any help in making my butt look any bigger. heh heh Did I say chocolate?

12. What is/are your favorite item/s to knit? Sweaters, socks, shawls......

13. What are you knitting right now? It’s just embarrassing. Check out my previous entries in the blog.

14. Do you like to receive handmade gifts? You bet.

15. Do you prefer straight or circular needles? Bamboo, aluminum, plastic? I like circs and double points mostly.

16. Do you own a yarn winder and/or swift? Yes.

17. How old is your oldest UFO? Maybe a year and a half or so? Do I need to really be honest here?

18. What is your favorite holiday? Hmmm.....Christmas or Halloween.

19. Is there anything that you collect? Antique needlework items and old spinning wheels.

20. Any books, yarns, needles or patterns out there you are dying to get your hands on? What knitting magazine subscriptions do you have? I am sure there are, but none come to mind. I have no subs at the moment.

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

22. Are you a sock knitter? What are your foot measurements? Yeppers. I have a size 8 foot.

23. When is your birthday? (mm/dd) 3/30

Victory over Procrastination

2006-10-07T08:26:00.000-07:00

Yeah, I know it doesn't SEEM like a big deal, but it isn't "just a sleeve". it is victory over my fear of sleeves. It is one battle fought over the war of procrastination. It is...it is.....uh., it's just a sleeve. I humbly remember I have 5 to go, or 7 if you count Elizabeth.
I am already working the collar of Rhinegold and hope to get the second sleeve going this weekend.

This coming weekend we are having the good fortune to have the host and some of the students playing with From the Top play with our orchestra. I am really looking forward to it. I have always been amazed at what these kids can do and it will be a pleasure to see some of them play in person. It makes me wonder what kind of a glorious career they may have after such great training and exposure so early in their lives.

Thank you for all of your lovely comments about Marcella's shawl. It is truly a beautiful piece of work.

I was successfully killed off in Sock Wars as were most of the players this week. I did receive a great pair of socks, tho, and met a couple of neat knitters. Hey, guys!!

Works in progress-or my not-so-secret shame

2006-10-01T13:49:00.000-07:00

So, let's just make this very public. These are my works in progress. Everyone has come out of hiding. Proof of my short attention span coupled with a very busy life. I never meant to abandon some of them...it just happened. I heard the call of another pattern or another yarn and there I was-off to a new dream of a finished object. NOW is the time to buckle down and FINISH, I do so solemnly swear. I will not cast on for Zauberflote until I have at least one finished sweater-not socks, not shawl-SWEATER. And without further ado...here they are, some progress on some:

I recently became friends with a lovely knitter in the Netherlands. I did her a small....I repeat..small... favor and this is what she sent me in return. It is absolutely more gorgeous in person and I can't wait for it to get cool enough to wear. Thank you, Marcella from the bottom of my heart. It is one of the most beautiful gifts I have ever received not only because it IS beautiful, but because of the time you must have put into it.

And here is the Zauberflote that I won't be putting on the needles for a while. :0) It sure is beautiful, though, isn't it? Purple is one of my favorite colors and I cannot WAIT for this one. These colors are LUSH.

Where does the time go??

2006-09-25T11:22:00.000-07:00

Wow! It is almost October and I have no idea where the time has gone this month! Seems like September just began. Is it like this for everyone as you get older or is this just brain cell damage from oboe playing? heh And for enquiring minds...thanks for all the lovely emails of support for the concert last weekend. It was great to hear from so many people. The concert went well and I was able to stay seated despite my claims of potentially running from the stage....besides, I as trapped within the violas anyway. The reception was far too hot for Birch, however...alas...maybe next time.

My Socks of Doom are ready for Sock Wars!!! Prepare to be eliminated my pretty! I know. They don't really LOOK like socks of doom, do they? aww well...no need to send ugly, is there? Started on Friday afternoon as you can just barely tell from the monitor and finished on Sunday afternoon.

Here is a little update on Season of Darkness and Winter Light

as well as Elizabeth I.

Rhinegold is actually getting some work done as well. Marina is making so much sleeve progress and I feel horribly guilty for not finishing my projects witing in the wings. Guilt seems to be a good motivator for me, much as I detest admitting to it.

Birch is done!

2006-09-09T17:38:00.000-07:00

I finished Birch a couple of days ago after some fast and furious knitting. I am planning on wearing it this Saturday evening after the concert and I wanted to make certain it was done. Never mind the wrist pain....I think I better slow down a little before this week begins or I won't be ABLE to play! umm...naaaahhhh. I started Elizabeth I with my Hebridean driftwood. It is a very hard color to capture so you will have to take my word that it looks better in person. Much more lavender. The stich definition is great and in my opinion, it is plenty soft for next to skin wear. I had to go down to a 2.5 mm needle to get gauge....so this one may take a while. Also, Rhinegold and Season of Darkness and Winter Light are back in play. I will have some pics up soon of them.

****Warning****Non knitting content ahead.
Now for the oboists. I ordered several different staples last weekin order to compare them. I have taken some pics of the tubes and then the openings as well. I have used Glotin and Pisoni for a long time, but thought I would try the silver Pisoni Artist and Pro and the Glotin **, the regular Glotin and Loree gold. On observation, I find that the Glotin** is EXTREMELY thin walled. So much so it makes me nervous that I might bend it with pressure from tying on. It's that thin, really! Have a look. You may have to click on it to enlarge it. The Pisoni openings look very close except for the scoring.The Loree tube is just superior in craftsmanship no doubt. It is very narrow at the opening, however, so it remains to be seen how it will perform. I ordered several more Lorees after my first run because I liked certain aspects of the staple, but I am not sure if that was a fluke, or it is really the staple giving me these qualities. I have blocked out several reeds in all of the staples now, and I will post my results in case anyone is interested or I can email you my thoughts. Of course, it is always somewhat personal, but I think any information on equipment helps us all a little. I also recently experimented with the Chudnow E staple in silver. It gives a lovely sound, but I found pitch placement in the upper register very difficult-especially high A.

That'll do it! Let me know if you would like any info on the staples, and now back to our regularly scheduled knitting blog! :0)

Socks For Soldiers

2006-08-29T13:51:00.000-07:00

Voila!

Long time-no write

2006-08-28T15:30:00.000-07:00

Wow, it's been a while, hasn't it? I suppose that would mean there should be lots to report on...if I had a life, that is. School is starting and I have been trying to arrange lessons between 12 schools and about a billion oboe students. This is the part of my school year that I like the least. Once the scheduling gets done, it's all downhill. Right? heh Anyway, that's where I have been. Pulling my hair out and answering endless emails and phone calls, making reeds,
practicing, and KNITTING!!! Whoohooo!

First, here is my Hebridean from Virtual Yarns in Driftwood. You all knew I was getting it anyway, so no surprise there, but here is the color. It isn't quite as light as I had thought, but I do love the combination of the lavender and rust heather. It will make a very lovely Elizabeth I, I hope.

I also have a comparison of yarns I thought some might find interesting. Starting from the left, this is a pic of Campion, Hebridean and finally, Dunedin. I have never seen any close-ups of the Dunedin, so I thought it would be good to see for some of you still contemplating Elizabeth in another sub yarn. If you click mon it you can go to my Flicr account and see a larger pic of it. You can make out just how much finer the Dundein is because of the merino it is made. Very soft and light.

I gave in and started a Birch that I want to wear to the reception of the first concert...providing that I SURVIVE the first concert. And yes, there is a question in my mind that I COULD just run screaming from the stage halfway through the show. I have actually wondered about that. Anyway, the question of my sanity aside, I am thoroughly enjoying Birch. It just flies and I have always loved Kidsilk Haze.

Also, I am almost done with my first pair of Socks For Soldiers. I have overestimated my productivity on these....among other things.....stop laughing, Marina! They are Looooog! But, tonight I will finish these monsters.

Not much progress on the other beauties in my pile o' sweaters being knit. I intend to get back on them again this week. Gotta make the sweaters. Gotta make the sweaters. Gotta make the sweaters. Anyone else know this commercial I am alluding to? :0)

Spies among us

2006-08-17T17:37:00.000-07:00

You guys are amazingly intuitive...or you are spies. Which is it? Yes, it is a VY kit! I looked long and hard for a sub for Elizabeth I, but wasn't happy with swatches. Tried Jaeger DK, Jaeger 4 ply and several others. Finally decided to just order from VY. I am getting the color Driftwood and a copy of the Children's Collection. Whooohooo! I will need some somewhat mindless knitting in case of a boredom emergency in rehearsals...but looking at this year's repertoire, I don't think there will be much room for diversion. First concert: (pay attention oboists) Don Juan, Pictures at an Exhibition and Brahms Violin Concerto. Ummm, help. Send reeds...or money...or maybe even bottles of alcoholic elixor. :0)
Here is what you can get out of 2 balls of Patons Kroy sock yarn. Partial BBS (big black socks). Lucky for me I have about five more balls. Talk about mindless knitting.

And the walls, they are almost done. Pretend the blue painter's tape isn't there. I will put more pics up when it is finally done and actually somewhat clean looking. Uh, or IF it is ever clean again.......

Went to the dentist today. It is one of my biggest all time fears...(besides having a semi truck or a train fall on top of me from an overpass....but that's a different problem or past life). My blood pressure was high. I was shocked. Me? I thought, "Lady, I am scared sh%^$less to be here, OF COURSE IT"S HIGH!" We took it again afterward. Normal. Anyone else scared of the dentist?

Around and around she goes....

2006-08-15T10:24:00.000-07:00

Has it been that long since I last posted?? Good grief. I have been knitting in circles...literally.

Socks for soldiers almost completed. Around and around and around....these things are huge! I can knit in spare moments with no thinking, so it actually goes pretty fast once I am knitting. I don't seem to be doing so much of that lately. The season is about to crank up and there are plenty of things to be done....like practice? Hmmm. And finish the kitchen??? Oh yeah, the kitchen. I am starting the color washing today and I really like the effect. I almost decided to leave the light yellow just out of pure laziness, but decided to get my a#$ is gear. Here is the beginning.

We used a textured paint in a light yellow base and then knocked it down with a trowel. I have mixed 2 parts sienna and 1 part maize glaze with 1 part clear glaze and applied it in small areas. After it dried slightly I ragged off where I thought appropriate. Now do you see why I was procrastinating? So many steps. So much mess. But totally worth the effort. One pic is with flash and one without. I think the darker is actually closer to the real deal. I am going to find an iron chandelier and some iron wall sconces to go in there as well.

And the ever lovely Season of Darkness and Winter Light sleeve # 2! I love this patttern. Love, love, love.

Something is winging its way across the pond right now to me. Anyone care to venture a little guess?

Lonely Saturday

2006-08-05T15:26:00.000-07:00

Hey! Where is everyone? Are y'all all on vacation? Please come back.......hello? I think I better tell you a symphony story to see if you are still listening out there.

It was a cold dark night........ok. It wasn't. But it was one of my first professional jobs in a symphony. This is especially for all of you who are not musicians and sometimes go to the symphony for an evening of relaxation. Yes, it certainly LOOKS placid enough on stage from the audience, doesn't it? Lies. All lies.

It was time for the concert and I was really nervous. Of course, I was only playing second oboe in this group, but believe me when I tell you there are plenty of places for embarrassment if you are not paying attention and playing well. All was going great. We were into the symphony of the evening, I forget (or have blocked) what that particular piece was. I was sitting as straight as possible, being as quiet as possible when not playing, looking straight ahead and all those other things your teachers beat into your head as a performance artist. It was almost time for the beautiful bassoon solo. Suddenly, in the row behing me I hear the sound of falling metal objects. A voice, "Motherfu%^$$%$r, does someone have a screwdriver?? Some of my f&^%%^ng keys just fell off!!!" I thought I would pass out for moment as the world began to sway. It was the principal bassoon. I was panicked. Surely someone from the audience heard that! I looked pleadingly at the conductor. The conductor looked calm. She had no idea. My adrenaline.....my God! My head would explode. A screwdriver instantly appeared from the principal oboist's bag. Time for the solo. The bassoon sounded wonderful. No one ever knew.

A little progress on my soldier's socks. We have family in and I needed some mindless knitting. Perfect! I don't even have to look at it as I knit anymore. Very cool. Next I will be able to read and knit. Not. I have heard of people doing this. This multitasking knitting business. I will just consider myself lucky enough to keep the things on the needles at all. :0)

Finito!

2006-08-03T16:54:00.000-07:00

Yeah, had you going for a second, didn't I? I did finish, but it is only the first half. It was a haul, tough. This is the left half.

There is a steek of about 6 inces that will be cut to make the front.

Then you can see the back after that and live stitches are left to graft to the right side when it is done.

THEN....comes the aran/lace sleeve bands as well as the front/lower/collar bands which are done together. Can I envision it? No way. Better get out the wine again.

And number 2, otherwise known as the right side...with the obligatory cup o' java. Hmm...wine..java...wine..java? Oh, my aching kidneys.

And here is a little work done on my Socks for Soldiers.

Four inches of ribbing. It feels like a lifetime of ribbing. I wonder who will wear them? I wonder if he will be safe? Which war zone will he be in? Honestly, you think these things as you make them.

Oh! Almost forgot. Go over and check out Yarnmonkey's Sock Wars! It looks like it is going to be loads of fun. The more the merrier!

Surprise Sunday

2006-07-30T07:11:00.000-07:00

I have a wonderful surprise today. Margaret in Manhattan has let me post a picture in progress of her beautiful work on the Alice Starmore sweater called Mardi Gras. It is from the elusive Scottish Collection. I have always adored this design, and when she mentioned it on a knitting list we belong to, I begged for a picture. It is too good not to share, so I asked if I might post it. Here it is in all of its glory. Wow, Margaret! And thank you for sharing it. Look at those colors!!

I have some progress to report on Rhinegold today. My muse, Marina, has been kicking me in the butt again. I really just procrastinate because she threatens to come down here and beat me. Shhhh, it is a ploy to lure her away from her stash so I can capture it. OK. Truth. I just have a short attention span.

I *have* been working on my Season quite diligently lately. I just bound off part of the pattern. More pics up later.

Also have a new pair of socks going for a group I joined recently. It is called Socks for Soldiers. I have to say, I have my own opinions about the war, but I will keep them to myself right now. I don't want to go down that road here. However, I will say I believe that no soldier should be without handmade socks whatever side or military group he may belong in. It is the knitter in me.

And last note, have you checked Eunny Jang's site lately??? She just posted a design she did for the winter Interweave Knits. Wowza! It is a modern fit Fair Isle and I am drooling over it already. She is an amazing designer and spinner. What are you waiting for??? Get over there!

I am a walking drought.

2006-07-27T10:20:00.000-07:00

It's true. I was born in the desert and apparently I take it with me wherever I go. We haven't had rain in so long, I can't remember what it looks like. Something like this,

but better. This is a little tease we got. Wind, clouds thunder. It moved on just as I got excited about the possibility. Hummmmppph.

I have been working diligently on the Season of Darkness and Winter Light. I am becoming rather dark myself as I realized my gauge has been getting a little tighter. Sheeesh! It is non-related stress issues. Don't worry, I am fine. Just keep your fingers crossed that this thing fits decently. I think it will be fine in blocking, tho. I will just block the crap out of it on my wooley board. I will have to let the arms on the board drop as these are bell sleeves, but I think it can be done just fine. (fingers crossed)

Here is the steek at the underarm.

It is a really interesting pattern for those of you not familiar. It is knitted in two separate mirrored halves-both from the arm up. The actual body continues sideways in the round to the center back with a steek at the underarm for a few inches. Then they are cut open and grafted together at the center back. It took me a while to actually visualize how this was going to take place. A long while-involving a mini paper pattern and a glass of wine.

And of course, the obligatory pic of the major time consumer of my life. :0)

Season of Darkness aWL update

2006-07-18T18:30:00.000-07:00

Moving along a little faster now. I have had some time between lessons and such to get going on it......

as well as work on some other (ahem!) languishing projects.

Stash enhancement from a private seller on the net. I have no self restraint. I admit it freely.

I also just picked up an interlibrary loan. It is A Silkworker's Notebook by Cherl Kolander. Very fascinating. I thought it would only be about the spinning process of silk, but it is so much more. This book contains information about the history and trade of silk, but the main focus seems to be on the properties, functions and types of silk. It also has info on raising silkworms. No, I am not considering it. :0) A great read I highly recommend if you are interested in silk whether it is knitting, weaving or whatever the case may be. I suggest a library though as it is going for quite a bit these days because it is OOP.

Whew!

2006-07-14T17:20:00.000-07:00

Ok, I have a few hours left...so I better give you this! My update on Red Hot Sizzling Socks. Which is certainly timely considering that it was a mere 102 degrees here as I finished this sock today. I give you...wooly, sweaty goodness. Pomotomus in Slayer from Sweetgeorgia Yarns.

Also an update picture on the remodeling taking over my life. Practice you say?? Reed making? Knitting? I have barely had time. But here is where we stand. Now I will colorwash and seal it. Keep your fingers crossed as I am not sure how that will turn out. But, I am not really a big yellow fan, so I have to antique the color just a bit. What do you think about the texture? It makes me happy!

And here is my miniscule progress on the SoDaWL. I can't wait to get back to it. And my Rhinegold...and Luskentyre.........and Little Rivers.........Marina, I hear you laughing. Please go look at the one Mandy is knitting! It looks great. The color combination is winning me over. We were both a little unsure of it, but she took the plunge and I am glad she did. Also, check out her vintage lace blouse. It is really fabulous. Really nice, Mandy. I can't wait to see it on.

Why remodeling got delayed....

2006-07-08T15:49:00.000-07:00

How could we disturb that?

Here is the beginnings of what we are after. I think I will end up colorwashing it later on this week. What do you think? Cool, huh?

And a little Season update. No pics. Perhaps tomorrow...A little farther, but the kitchen is taking precedence, so it is only a little. Mandy is on the back stretch and closing in fast! C'mon, Mandy!

And my Pomatomus socks for the Red Hot Sizzling Socks. Hmm. ......it needs to be finished July 15 and this is.........July..8??!!!! Oh, crap!

What was I thinking?

2006-06-30T15:54:00.000-07:00

Does everyone pause in the middle of remodeling and wonder "just what the hell was I thinking?" ? Truly? Three days in and we are seeing more layers. Even a little 70's paneling. Oh, yeah, baby. I am scared that if I dig too far I may find some smokey mirrors. heh. Must keep my mind on the finished outcome, right? If all else fails I can knit some wallpaper, I suppose.

I thought I would add insult to injury and start my Red Hot Sizzling Socks...since the deadline was extended to July 15. Yea! I had such good intentions. Even created an impossible design. But, alas, my startitis got the best of me. I did cast on tho, and it will another pair of Pomatomus socks in Slayer by Sweet Georgia Yarns. It is a really cool, or should I say hot, colorway. Reds, wines and some purples thrown in.

And of course, my SODAWL update. Love this yarn. Tried to order more, but got no reply. That seems really strange, so I may try to call it in tomorrow. I need to get one more ball in each because it seems as if I may run short. If not, no problem, but better safe than sorry.

Now you see it.....

2006-06-28T08:44:00.002-07:00

Now you don't.

Kind of. I am just learning about wallpaper removal as you can see. We've lived with this wallpaper for a year now and I finally could take it no longer. In a fit of flower induced mania, I started ripping. And ripping. Two hours later this is what I had. Pity forced V. to go to the store and bring back wallpaper remover and various other items said to make this process easier. I will let you know. My desire for this kitchen gone hallucinogenic-garden is something like this. I love the color and the texture for a kitchen......now what to do with this green counter top.......

Here is the Season of Darkness and Winter Light progress. This pattern is so much fun I am barely working on anything else. The pattern emerges so quickly that it is hard to put down. Just one more row.....I have had to switch to two circulars because it is now the dreaded girth of an arm with all of the decreases. You know how much I hate working on arms. Mandy has ordered yarn and is getting ready to start hers in the original colors. It is going to be fabulous. I also didn't like the original colors but have now decided that I do like them. They are subtle and beautiful and I bet will look even better in person. She has a great entry on the season of darkness.

What is this?

2006-06-23T18:53:00.000-07:00

I've been holding out on you. I got my Rauma Yarn from Arnhild and I have already swatched and started on a Season of Darkness and Winter light. Check it out. The colors are more true to life on the piece rather than the pics of the yarn. The Rauma is wonderful to work with. Nice firm fabric which is just what I want for this design so the jacket hangs well. Shouldn't be too drapey. Is that a word? Mandy is ordering her yarn right away so we will have a couple of colorways going in tandem. This should be really fun. Glad we're doing this together, Mandy!

Sneaky

2006-06-18T08:56:00.000-07:00

This is what happens when you turn your back for one second. She is amazing at waiting patiently for the right moment. She doesn't forget although she may pretend she has. She might even drag a toy over there to show you she has forgotten about that thing you have told her no to so many times. Then finally you look away for a second. She pounces.

Here is a progress shot of the sleeve...yes...first sleeve...just to prove I *am* working on it. It is actually moving a little faster now. I am finally getting the hang of the Russian Joint and I really like the result.

And a pic of the inside of the body.

My yarn for the Norsk Strkkedesign sweater should be here any time. There may be a slight color problem, but I will know right away. I want the cable and one of the inside colors to be a perfect match. If not, I may have to resort to something else, but I really hope this works out. I am looking forward to trying out the Rauma yarns.

Now...there's a winery event I must attend to today if you will all excuse me for a while. (hiccup)

World Cup Socks

2006-06-16T10:21:00.000-07:00

Well, they are finished just in the nick of time! Germany is still in the running and I brought them no bad luck by not finishing before the start of the games. Whew! What pressure. Now I can get to my regularly scheduled tortu...I mean....knitting of arms.
I have decided to order yarn for the Norsk Strikkedesign cover sweater Season of Darkness and Winter Light. No, I won't tell you what colors. :0) You will have to wait and find out....plus the scheme may not be working out and I can't handle the laughter. ;0) Mandy is going to be knitting along with me on hers as well. It'll be nice to have the company and we can whine over enlarging and reversing the miniscule charts together. Thanks, Mandy!!

Never come home empty handed.

2006-06-11T10:56:00.001-07:00

Well, I went home to visit a little and wha did I find? I find that I can't go home and not buy yarn. :0) Hmmm, what's this? And what is it intended to become?

A little update on the arm situation. A little progress, but not much. I find myself dreaming of new projects already, but I will persevere. I love the juxtaposition of the two colorways together. The yarns are so very different. The Luskentyre is J & S and the Rhinegold is VY, so there is a huge difference in the hand of the yarn as well as the gauge. The Virtual Yarns is a little more bulky and softer. It is absolutely luscious to work with. The Jamieson and Smith is a finer yarn. To my eye and hand it is slightly finer than Jamieson and Campion, which I find to be interchangable. I used Jamieson on Saga Rose and Jamieson and Campion on Mary Tudor. The color selection of J&S is fabulous and it should bloom really well once it is blocked. We will wait and see. Anyone else want to chime in?

Here are the heels on the German World Cup socks. Almost done. They have been getting the most attention since the squeaky wheel gets the oil. Besides, I was warned that if Germany lost before these socks were finished, it is all my fault. Who can live with that kind of pressure? ;0)

Sockapalooooza!!!!

2006-06-02T15:13:00.000-07:00

They're here! They're here! And look at my presents. My sock pal went above and beyond and gifted me with these lovely socks (in my favorite color no less) and yarn and a really neat card of women soldiers knitting. It looks like Italy WWII. Very wonderful. Thank you so much, Pam!!! I am in awe of your generosity. I hope your sock pal gifted you as well as you gifted me. :0)

I have also been doing a little on Luskentyre...but look who also came out to play. I seem to be in exactly the same spot on both. Oh, God, it's the arms. I must push onward, for I have some new projects brewing and I refuse to start until I have at least one of these done, if not both. Still looking at Norsk Strikkedesign and also another Starmore or two...but a little different than a Fair Isle. Piqued anyone's interest?