'TWAS A COUPLE OF NIGHTS BEFORE...

KNITTERS CHRISTMAS EVE

'Twas the night before Christmas and all around me
was unfinished knitting not under the tree.
The stockings weren't hung by the chimney with care
Cause the heels and the toes had not a stitch there.
The children were nestled all snug in their beds,
But I had not finished the caps for their heads.
Dad was asleep;he was no help at all,
And the sweater for him was 6 inches too small,
When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter
I put down my needles to see what was the matter.
Away to the window I flew in like a flash,
tripped over my yarn and fell down with a crash.
The tangle of yarn that lay deep as the snow
reminded me of how much I still had to go.
Out on my lawn I heard such a noise,
I thought it would wake both Dad and the boys.
Although I was tired, my brain a bit thick,
I knew at a moment it must be St Nick.
But what I heard then left me perplex-ed,
for not a name I heard was what I expected,
Move Ashford, Move Lopi, Move Addi and Clover!
Move, Reynolds! Move Starmore! Move Froelich--move over
Paton,don't circle 'round;stand in the line.
Come now, you sheep will work out just fine!
I know this is hard; it's just your first year.
"I'd hate to go back to eight tiny reindeer."
I peered over the sill; What I saw was amazing,
Eight wooly sheep on my lawn all a-grazing.
and then, in a twinkle, I heard at the door
Santa's feet coming across the porch floor.
I rose from my knees and got back on my feet,
And as I turned 'round St Nick I did meet.
He was dressed all in wool from his head to his toe,
And his clothes were hand knit from above to below.
A bright Fairisle sweater he wore on his back, and his toys were all stuffed in an Aran knit sack.
His cap was a wonder of bobbles and lace.
a beautiful frame for his rosy red face.
the scarf 'round his neck could have stretched for a mile,
And the socks peeking over his boots were Argyle.
The back of his mittens bore an intricate cable.
And suddenly on one I espied a small label,
"S.C." Was duplicate stitched on the cuff,
And I asked, "Hey, Nick, dId you knit all this stuff?"

THIS WAS POSTED ON A KNITTING LIST LAST YEAR WITHOUT A CITATION. I LIKED IT AND WANTED TO SHARE IT WITH ALL YOU OBSESSED, WONDERFUL KNITTERS OUT THERE! ENJOY AND A MERRY CHRISTMAS TO KNITTERS AROUND THE WORLD.

Ahhhhhhhhh...I'm out of Control!!!

And loving it, but still...Last week, I was looking for a yarn needle to graft some sock toes and decided to look in my stash. I was actually shocked at how much yarn and proposed projects I have! There's yarn for sweaters, shawls, scarves, socks...You name it I have yarn for it. I'm exaggerating a little when I say I have Yarn beyond life expectancy, but not by much! How did this happen? Actually, I know how, but like most people with addictions, I'm not willing to give it up totally!!! I'm just going to yarn stash rehab to "clean up...dry out" "Cuz, you know I can get clean", "I can handle it", "I'm not like those other fiber addicts" "I can stop anytime I want to!!!" Who the hell am I kidding?!!! I'm just making room for future, buys!!! After all, I don't want to be responsible for collapse of the world's fiber cartels and my local dealer...er, I mean LYS.

I've decided to join in on Wendy of www.Wendyknits.net Knit from your stash 2007 Here are the rules in case I can entice anyone else into rehab with me!

1. The Knit-From-Your-Stash-a-Thon will start January 1, 2007 and run through September 30, 2007 -- a period of nine months.

2. We will not buy any yarn during that period, with the following exceptions:

2.a. Sock yarn does not count. What? You think we are made of stone?

2.b. If someone asks for a specific knitted gift that we really and truly do not have the yarn for, we may buy yarn to knit that gift.

2.c. If we are knitting something and run out of yarn, we may purchase enough to complete the project.

2.d. We each get one "Get Out of Jail Free" card -- we are each allowed to fall off the wagon one time.

3. We are allowed to receive gifts of yarn.

4. Spinning fiber of any sort is exempt.

Anyone else who would like to join us in this is welcome to do so! You may also alter the guidelines to suit your own situation.


I'm too weak to edit the rules to fit my situation or I wouldn't be reducing the stash! So, I sticking to the above rules.

Have a good week and get knitting!!!

Stuffed Eggplant Parmesan...mm good!

Patty, our SP9 hostess has come up with a new contest. To win, one has to post about a memory/memories attached to a favorite recipe! Two winners will be chosen. M favorite recipe is my mother's stuffed eggplant Parmesan. It didn't start as a family tradition, but quickly became one! I was in high school at the time. My mother and her friends at work would have recipe swaps based on dishes brought to company potluck lunches or Christmas parties. By popular demand we started making it for all holiday family/friend get-togethers. In fact, my aunt who lives in FLA. called this summer to say she was coming up to visit and would I make the "eggplant" and bring it to the family barbecue. During the holidays my mother and my sister and I would prepare it together. Each cutting up a different vegetable. It was a time for us to share gossip, talk about what was going on in our lives or just to get downright silly about some event or crazy situation!

Like the time my sister's new boyfriend pulled into the driveway to pick her up for a date (She was a high school senior). My father came around to the front of the house, when he heard a car in the driveway. He was absentmindedly swinging an axe while walking down the driveway to the car! With a look of horror, my sister's date whispered "Is Kim home?" My father had forgotten he had the axe in his hand(cutting dead branches off a tree). When he realized why the boy had a such a look of shock/horror...He laughed and said "Don't worry, I always wait until the second date to make a decision!
In the meantime, to the boy's relief, Kim came outside and off they went on their date. My sister later told as they drove away he said: "What did you tell your father about me!!"

Stories, hopes and dreams have been shared while making this recipe. Here is the recipe below. Enjoy!

Stuffed Eggplant Parmesan
(it makes a lot!)
2-3 eggplants
1 chopped pepper (any color you like!)
1 tablespoon garlic (more or less as you like it)
2 tablespoons olive oil (I've also used canola or vegetable)
1 box fresh mushrooms, sliced
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup seasoned croutons
1 15 ounce can tomato sauce
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 egg
If you want to "stuff" the mixture back into the eggplant skins, then slice the eggplant lengthwise and scoop the eggplant out to make "boats". Then when the mixture is cooked, it's put into the eggplant boats and covered with sauce and cheese, then baked.

Me, I do it the lazy way. I peel the skin from the eggplant, cube it and put the mixture in a foil lined or no stick pan like a casserole.

First, cut up the pepper and mushrooms. In a pot or a large pan, heat the olive oil: ADD peppers, mushrooms, and garlic. Saute, until the peppers and mushrooms are starting to soften/cook. Add cubed eggplant a little at a time until its all mixed together. Cook until, the eggplant becomes slightly translucent. At this point, if the mixture looks a little dry, you can add a little more olive oil or a little water to moisten. When eggplant is cooked ADD: 1 egg, breadcrumbs, and croutons. Mix it all together and heat for about 3-5 more minutes. Its ready to put in a pan. Pour tomato sauce over the mixture and then the mozzarella cheese. Cook in the oven at 350 degrees for about 20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbling and slightly brown.

bon appetit!

THANKS!!!

I got my first package from my secret pal today. She checked with me the other day to see whether it had arrived. I had a mail notice and thought it was for the package, but nooo! and as usual I never coordinate well with the postman when it comes to being home to accept packages. While I was at the post office picking up a package Saturday morning, he was delivering 2 packages to my apartment!! The slip I had was for Victorian Lacy Today. This was exciting, but it was not secret pal! Well, today's 2 packages included secret pal and boy was it worth the wait for Monday to arrive!! My SP is awesome! Let me show you the goods! First thing I smelled when I opened the box was Burt's Bees Essential body kit. . Just in time for the cold weather! MY skin gets so easily chapped.
I love Burt's Bees products! This was only the beginning. I've been totally spoiled! Next was Zhena's Gypsy Tea (raspberry earl grey) I absolutely love tea and will definitely be having a cuppa tonight. There was also a tin of Traveler's chocolate. However, the only place this chocolate will be traveling to is my stomach! Along with all these goodies came some cascade yarn begging to become some fetching wrist warmers or maybe a little felted something. Lookie here! Now by this time, your all thinking what more can there be? Let's continue with Show and Tell! I got something new to try called An embellishment Kit for felted knits. This one is called String of Lights and just in time for the Holidays. My head is swimming with ideas! Perhaps a felted scarf with a string of lights or a wall hanging. Hmm...that cascade yarn might notturn into wristwarmers after all. Of course,there's plenty of yarn in the stash... My picture doesn't do justice to the beautiful colors of roving included in the kit.

I also got a Christmas themed memo pad!

Thank you SP for such a wonderful package. I'm going to enjoy every bit of it!!!

I'm a Winner!

In more ways than one! But I'll just share the good, fun kind tonight! Our Hostess for this latest Secret Pal exchange has made things even more fun by having a series of contests! The most recent contest required participants to make a dishcloth and post it. Here's mine It's the famous Mason-Dixon ballband dishcloth made with sugar&cream yarn. It was easy and fun to make. Well, guess what? I won second place (names of winners drawn from a hat). There were four winners chosen. Here is my gift!!! The colors are really beautiful. The yarn is from Newton Country Yarns and the color is Truffle. It's a cotton rayon boucle. It's quite a good size hank too. My challenge is to decide what to make. So, stay tuned I will think of something cool. I love it! Thanks Patty!

In other knitting news:
I am working on a simple pair of socks using self-striping yarn and being amazed at the stripes! (I'm so simple to amuse sometimes 8-)). The heel is done in short rows with wraps. I like doing short rows, but hate the wraps! I had to frog once because, I had holes! Second time has been the charm. The swatch is done for beadwork and I'm ready to cast on!

Have a good evening everyone and good weekend. I'll probably be posting again this weekend because I have some postal notices about packages waiting for me. Yahoo!

Happy Thanksgiving

~*~*HAPPY THANKSGIVING ~*~*

'TWAS THE NIGHT OF THANKSGIVING, BUT I JUST COULDN'T SLEEP.
I TRIED COUNTING BACKWARDS, I TRIED COUNTING SHEEP.

THE LEFTOVERS BECKONED - THE DARK MEAT AND WHITE.
BUT I FOUGHT THE TEMPTATION WITH ALL OF MY MIGHT.

TOSSING AND TURNING IN ANTICIPATION,
THE THOUGHT OF A SNACK BECAME INFATUATION.

SO I RACED TO THE KITCHEN, FLUNG OPEN THE DOOR.
AND GAZED AT THE FRIDGE FULL OF GOODIES GALORE.

I FELT MYSELF SWELLING SO PLUMP AND SO ROUND,
'TILL ALL OF A SUDDEN I ROSE OFF THE GROUND.

I CRASHED THROUGH THE CEILING FLOATING INTO THE SKY
WITH A MOUTHFUL OF PUDDING AND A HANDFUL OF PIE.

BUT I MANAGED TO YELL AS I SOARED PAST THE TREES

HAPPY EATING TO ALL, PASS THE CRANBERRIES PLEASE.

MAY YOUR STUFFING BE TASTY, MAY YOUR TURKEY BE PLUMP;

MAY YOUR POTATOES AND GRAVY HAVE NARY A LUMP.

MAY YOUR YAMS BE DELICIOUS, MAY YOUR PIES TAKE THE PRIZE -

MAY YOUR THANKSGIVING DINNER STAY OFF YOUR THIGHS!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING (Irene @ New England Textile Association)

--

I've come to the conclusion ...

that I need to find a new job. If you want to skip this part and go to the knitting feel free. I just needed to get these thought out of my head, where they've been intruding all weekend. I work as a therapist and really enjoy what I do. However, I don't like where I'm doing it. There have been many changes where I work over the last few years and not many of them are positive. Some things have happened at work this week that have made me see clearly that I have to make a change. My body has been telling me for I while(headaches, body aches,stress eating,insomnia), I just haven't been listening. I thought that because I like what I do and the people I see, that I could just ignore everything else, but I can't anymore. So, I've starting updating my resume and beginning the search for a new job. I'm being vague on some details for now...never know who reads these things. It's been a lousy weekend because I can't let it go. Hopefully I'll start feeling better about things, now that I've made the decision to leave. Thanks for listening. I'm so glad I have knitting... I don't want this post to be a total downer, so here's some knitting:
I finished the Ballband Dishcloth from Mason*Dixon Knitting . It was a fun knit and fast. The pattern was really easy to remember after a couple of repeats. It's cool how it all comes together. At first I couldn't picture how the vertical stitches were done, but it's clever and simple at the same time. Here is a close-up of the pattern and colors:
I'll be making more of these in the future! Completing this dishcloth put me contention for the grand prize of stash enhancement, courtesy of Patty our Secret Pal 9 hostess. She is keeping SP9 fun and exciting by have contests. In other knitting news, I actually have nothing to finish, this is sinful. However, I'm correcting the situation immediately by starting the Beadwork sweater by Alice Starmore. I had been putting it off to finish other projects, so Let the knitting beginning. Lest you think I'm slacking, I do have other projects in mind. They're just not on the needles!

Felting 101

I can't believe it, but I've finally finished my felted slipper socks. They came out really cute! They were huge after knitting them! The picture does not clearly show the size and the knitting well prior to felting, but here is the before picture:

I really like the color for these slippers. The yarn is Paint Box and is 100% wool. The pattern is from www.knitty.com . When it came to felting these, I thought it would be a piece of cake. Not True! My machine was not very cooperative and I forgot to put in that little bit of detergent to help with agitation. I must've worked it with the machine for almost 40 minutes and there was no felting to be seen. I got online and quickly looked up "felting". Lucky for me the first hit was a good one. The author talked about felting in the kitchen sink with step-by-step directions. Here's a progress pick:

The soapy hot water and hand agitation resulted in almost instant results. It was kind of fun playing water! I was also determined these were going to felt or else! I think for first time felting they came out really well. They are a still a little bit big, but I was afraid of over felting them. Still, I love the feel of them and they will definitely keep my feet warm this winter.

This won't be my last felting project. I have a bag to make next using Noro yarn. Both felting projects are courtesy of Kate of Secret Pal 8.

In other knitting News...



Our group's SP9 Hostess, Patty has dreamed up another contest! The prize will be yarn. You know I can't pass that up, though I'm beginning to feel like I have a stash beyond life expectancy ( and I've got a long way to go ). The contest is making a dishcloth by the stated date and posted to the blog. Winner will be chosen and yarn dispatched. I'm making the dishcloth from the Mason-Dixon book. I can't believe how easy it is!

Dishcloth in progress
I'm off to watch Bones on T.V. it's a great show. It's a crime drama laced with humor. I can relax and knit too. Who could ask for more on a weekday evening.

Diagnosis:Single Sock Syndrome, Prognosis: Excellent!

I'm not a doctor nor have I played on T.V. So, I'm diagnosing without a license. Maybe I should make an appointment with Dr. McDreamy from Grey's Anatomy. After all, he's not a real M.D. and single sock syndrome's not a real disease. Perfect! As of the weekend, I now have handknit socks and all with mates!

lookie here, we're mates!
These socks are called "Seaweed socks" by Nancy T. McGlynn. I used knitpicks "Sock Garden". It's 100% Merino yarn in a color called Zinnia. they're really soft and comfy. I did use wooly thread to reinforce the heel, so they'll last longer. Definitely a fun knit. It's difficult to see the pattern in the picture, but its cool!

Sixth Sense Socks
The pattern for the sixth sense sock came from a member of the sixth sense knit-a-long. Members of this group get a new sock pattern every 2 months. A KAL is done for each new sock. At the end of every 2 months a new sock design is offered. There are some talented knitters and sock designers in this group. Most of the patterns are original designs offered for free. So far, I haven't met a pattern I didn't totally like ( well... Not totally disliked).The Sixth Sense sock is good example. It was a fun knit, moved quickly, and was well written. The only part of the sock that bugged me were the short row wraps! Otherwise, things went smoothly. Its made from soccotta's denim yarn. For both socks I used size 2 DPN's. I used metal for one pair and bamboo needles for the other.

This week's plan is to complete the Fuzzy Feet felted slippers. I love the yarn and the colors for fuzzy feet. These were a gift from my secret pal (#8)whose enabling me to felt everything and anything I want! (Hi Kate!).

Well, it's time to get my weekly fill of Prison Break and Heroes. I'm really hooked on Heroes!!!

Weekend in New England

This has been the first weekend in 3 weeks in which I have not been in constant pain from the grand case of tendonitis I had. I actually only thought about it a couple of times and I no longer have to think about buying stock in ibuprophen (motrin)! The muscle pain radiate from the tendon in my elbow to the muscle of my forearm down to my wrist. Then it decided to radiate around to the back of my arm up my shoulder and stopped at the scapula on the same side. An occupational therapist told me this is actual not uncommon. Gee thanks! So, you know this meant no knitting was touched. However, since the inflammation has been reduced to a minimum. I was able to knit!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! So, now that I can get my knit on, there'll be more knitting content soon. I did have a really good weekend. It was a beautiful and sunny Saturday,tho a bit brisk! My friend Katie and I went to the Regatta to watch some of the races and see the sailboats. Here are a couple of photos.

These are the sailboats that braved the wind. I thought for sure a few of them were going to go over, but everyone of them held on. The pictures don't really do these boats justice. We missed several of the international scullers for the regatta, but the races we saw were fun. Katie used to scull and compete in college, so I had my own guide to the races and what goes on. I learned a lot.

This picture didn't come out as clearly as I wanted. The sun was so strong, I had a hard time seeing what I was taking a picture of. The sun reflected off the LCD screen on my digital camera. Katie said: "Some of my best pictures were taken when I couldn't see what I was taking." This didn't work for me (LOL).

After leaving the race, we walked around the Boston University campus, Katie's alma mater (I'm an Emerson College alumni) and stopped at Uno's Chicago Grille for wine and a quick lunch to get warmed up. Next stop? The Public gardens and Boston common via Newbury street. It was then we realized today must be parent's weekend and every college student in the area was giving their parent's a tour of the city. Man, it was crowded!!! You could hardly walk on the sidewalk, but it was actually fun and brought back a lot of good college memories! I kept an eye out for two recommended yarn shops on Newbury street, but had no success finding them! Just means a yarn crawl for another day 8-)! I did find a yarn shop close to the public gardens. It had a huge banner that said Now knitting too! It appeared to be a cross stich/needlework store. Although, it had some nice yarn, but was definitely was not knitter friendly. So, we looked briefly and left.

At the public gardens, a wedding party was having pictures taken. The bride was beautiful and probably freezing her ass off! It was late in the day and the temps had cooled quite a bit. However, she'll have great pics for life. The setting was really pretty. As we were walking to the gate exiting the public gardens, I looked across the street and saw a huge crowd...HUGE! I did not know it but we were about to join the The Great Pumpkin Festival! I couldn't believe the number of pumpkins I was seeing. There were thousands and every one of them carved!!! Turns out a Group called "Life is Good" was sponsoring this year's festival.

Just the beginning...
This group raises money for children with serious medical problems and their families to attend Camp Sunshine for some respite. There were over 4 thousand pumpkins and they were planning to carve a thousand more to make the Guinness book of world records for the most lit pumpkins in one place. All of these pumpkins were going to be lighted at nightfall. Here are more photos!

more pumpkins!
Pumpkins wound all around the Boston Commons walkways. It was a sight to see! The pumpkins were donated by various companies and carved by kids and anyone wanting to contribute. This was one of my favorites. Though all of them were good!

Cool, huh!
I was not able to stay for the lighting, but saw it later on the News. It was fantastic. I have one last picture that I took before heading home. It was such a fun and relaxing day. I love the color of the trees. Autumn is definitely my favorite season. Today, was a perfect Autumn day!

I love autumn!

Insert witty title here " ".

I haven't done much knitting this week, but have been looking at it longingly. I'm still have trouble with my elbow, but it's significantly better than last week!!! I did get to do a little, tiny bit of knitting. I'm using this post to show you what's on the needles. I am making beadwork by Alice Starmore. I'm using knitpicks merino style and can't believe how the stitches are popping out on the swatch Yes, I actually do swatch for projects...Well some projects (LOL). Here is a picture of the sweater:

I can't believe blogger is cooperating today! Back to this sweater. I'm making it in a knitpick's color called Hollyberry. It's a beautiful red. Not too dark and not too bright red. I really love it! I'm knitting this as part of a KAL. I wasn't too sure how complicated it would be to make and figured it would be a good way to get support and tips. The knitter's in the group are unbelievable! They're a talented group and many are experienced in fair isle, aran knitting, and techniques in general. Some are making this sweater in the round as a pullover:, are knitting it in the round using steeks to make the cardigan: and some like myself making it in pieces!

I'm also in the middle of making felted slippers. I can't wait to felt them. I have almost finished the second sock. Here it is in progress:

This is an unbelievable knit because it knits up so quickly! Right now, I'm calling it the sasquatch sock, because of the size! I'm sure I'll be making more of these. I think my sister would really like them. I'll have to make a before and after picture, these babies are felted!

Well that's all the knitting for now. However, I can't help but show off my little niece. The last picture I had of her on this blog was her year old picture. She is now 16 months old. Here is a picture of her at someone else's birthday party.

I said: "Balloon, don't you speak babble?"

My sister was trying to give her the bottle. All she was interested in were the children and the balloons. Eventually, she ended up with three balloons!
Have a good week and get knitting!

SP9 contest..Let the games begin!

I think SP9 is going to be really fun. Patty, the hostess for our group is already having a contest! The winners (2) will have a choice of handmade book marks or stitch markers.

Post on your blog your favorite:
Actor - This is hard. I have 3 absolute favorites! But I'll say is Cillian Murphy ( I've liked him even before "Red Eye" and "Batman begins"!
Actress - Another hard one! Jody Foster
Animal - Cats (jungle and domestic)
Band - I like too many!!! Dave Matthews band
Beverage - Tea (alcoholic/ frozen maguritas)
Book - from childhood (The Secret Garden) as an adult (The Tower Series)
Bubble Bath - Sweet Pea (bath and body works)
Candy - Don't really like candy (I know, I know what planet am I from!)
Color - Mauve
Flower - roses
Food - Italian
Lip Balm - Bert's bees lip balm in peach
Lotion - Evelyn and Waughs gardner's hand cream
Movie - Raiders of the Lost Ark (fun movie!)
Song - don't have one!
TV Show -Smallville
Vacation Spot - Scotland
This contest was harder than it looks! I'm a real movie fan and could list many favorites. I also love to read and could list many more than one as a favorite. As for music, I have eclectic tastes and pick music to suit my moods. Thanks Patty this was fun!

I'm baaaaaaaack, sorta!!!

It's been one hellacious week, I can tell yah! First, I went to get my car inspected and the cute inspector guy comes out to the reception area to say "Wendy, I'm sorry, but I can't pass your car." I'm thinking "why not" nothing seemed wrong with it. Well it was a big thing! A "broken strut coil" A what? And where is it found? SP, needless to say I took my "turn away document" NO rejection sticker for this girl! The document helps one avoid getting a ticket for an expired sticker. I got the car fixed. This years inspection sticker cost me $269.00. That's a lot of yarn, folks! The real hell of the week is the pulled muscle in my neck that extended down to my scapula and made me keep my neck cocked to the left to relieve the pain. Then 2 days after that started I got a grand case of tendonitis on my right elbow! By Thursday, I was wishing humans were put together like snap on toys, so I could unstrap that section of my body and put it aside, until it decided to behave. It's Sunday and the first day I feel human again!! Of course, this would be the week my M.D. would be out of town! I finally got hold of the office's nurse practitioner, who was really helpful and why I feel better today! I've been in a knitting mood and really want to knit, but not yet. I tried to do a little on Friday and boy was I sorry! So. I resting a few more days!


I'm doing my second SP. I really enjoyed the first one and had a great secret pal! So, I'm ready for more fun!
Greetings new secret pal (I don't know who she is yet, but should today)

1. What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with? What fibers do you absolutely *not* like?

I like all kinds of sock yarn, wool and wool blends, hand-dyed/hand-painted, and bamboo. I don't like or use fun fur,chunky yarns,novelty yarns, or acrylic. As I've knitted more and more I like the way certain yarns look and drape. So, I'm more choosy about yarns now.

2. What do you use to store your needles/hooks in? My needles are usually kept in a drawer.

3. How long have you been knitting & how did you learn? Would you consider your skill level to be beginner, intermediate or advanced? I've known how to knit since I was a little girl (my grandmother taught me). I've been obsessively knitting for about 3 years now (LOL). I think I'm an advanced knitter now.

4. Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list? Yes! It's on Amazon.

5. What's your favorite scent? (for candles, bath products, etc.)I like fresh scents and citrus scents like grapefruit, light floral, and some spicy scents. I don't like vanilla,lilac or rose scents.

6. Do you have a sweet tooth? Favorite candy? You won't believe this, but I don't like candy or chocolate!

7. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do? Do you spin? Mostly, I love knitting and learning new techniques. I would like to learn how to spin, but I don't now.

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 all kinds of music. Country is probably the only music I don't listen to. I'm a classical guitarist, so I do love classical music, some rap, alternative rock, and Jazz. I'm a Tori Amos fan and recently heard Leona Naess, so I can't wait for her next CD. I'll basically try anything, so bring it on!

9. What's your favorite color(s)? Any colors you just can't stand? I love fall colors and shades of pink (mauve,rose). I think the only color I don't like is bright yellow.

10. What is your family situation? Do you have any pets? I'm single and have two very spoiled cats !

11. Do you wear scarves, hats, mittens or ponchos? I wear all except ponchos. I'm highly allergic to ponchos. They make me run, screaming from the vicinity. (LOL).

12. What is/are your favorite item/s to knit? I love knitting socks. I also make sweaters, scarves, and lace knitting.

13. What are you knitting right now? Beadwork- a sweater, socks to be felted into slippers, and starting a dragon shawl.

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

15. Do you prefer straight or circular needles? Bamboo, aluminum, plastic? I like all types, except plastic because there's too much drag on the yarn. I just got my first pair of addi turbos. I'm excited to use them after all I've heard. Generally, I just use what works!

16. Do you own a yarn winder and/or swift? Yes. I love em!

17. How old is your oldest UFO? 4 months old. I've actually caught up on all projects!

18. What is your favorite holiday? Halloween (It's because fall is my favorite season and Halloween is part of fun memories of Autumn!)

19. Is there anything that you collect? Knitting books, yarn (of course!), and decorative knitting needles.

20. Any books, yarns, needles or patterns out there you are dying to get your hands on? What knitting magazine subscriptions do you have? Current books are on my Amazon wish list. I subscribe to Vogue Knitting, Interweave Knits, and Knit Simple.

21. Are there any new techniques you'd like to learn? I would like to learn magic loop or knitting two socks on circular needles and spinning. I'm really open to learning anything new!

22. Are you a sock knitter? What are your foot measurements? Absolutely! I have size 9.5 foot.

23. When is your birthday? March 20th

I started this post yesterday and finished it this A.M. Damn tendonitis! Anyway hope to have a more interest post next time.
Get knitting!

RIP update and a little knitting.

I have been reading like crazy lately!!! I'M doing the Reader's Imbibing Peril (RIP) challenge. I got a little side tracked and read two books not on the list. The only requirement is to read 5 books by the end of October and I've already read 3 since sept. 12th when I signed up:

"In Silent Graves" by Gary A. Braunbeck- This was a quick read and a real page turner! The story is about a man whose whole life gets twisted and turned inside out on Halloween night. This book is not for the squeamish and easily creeped out. At the same time, as much as you don't want to know what's going to happen next, your compelled to turn the page to find out!!! I don't want to say anymore to spoil it. Get this book!

"Anansi Boys" by Neil Gaiman. This was a fun read! It had scary moments but overall, I love the characters. It's about to brothers who have a god as a father. However, one is unaware of his father's "skills" and or the fact he even has a brother! He is soon to find out and then the fun begins!!! I've never read any of Neil Gaiman's books before, but I will definitely be looking or more (he's written several books, including graphic novels).

"Cell" by Stephen King. I buy or borrow King's books as soon as they come out. This one, I was kind of undecided about and wanted until now. Early on in the book, I felt like it was just going to be a rehash of "The Stand" which I loved, but didn't want to read the same thing again. This book had some of the same elements, but with a new twist. I enjoyed it from the start and couldn't stop reading it. I'll say one thing, I'm seeing cell phones in a whole new light (LOL)!!!

For my next read, I'm going with another Stephen King book : The Dark Tower V, Wolves of Calla. I absolutely love the Dark Tower Series and have read all the books to this point. I've been putting off reading the rest, because I hate the thought of finishing them. Have you ever read a book and then wished you'd read it more slowly, so it wouldn't end? That's how I am with Dark Tower books! Now on to knitting!

I am finished with the first "fuzzy feet" slipper. This thing is HUGE. I can't wait to finish the second slipper, so I can felt them! I found the pattern for the "Beadwork" sweater and will be swatching for it this weekend! MY socks are all completed, so there's not second sock syndrome in this house! (pictures soon).


I went to the Boston knit out and crochet last weekend. I had a fun time. There were a lot of people there, but I wished there had been even more! I think the threat of rain and thunderstorms kept some people away. I volunteered to teach knitting and crochet basics at the ongoing workshops throughout the day. That was a blast! There was a little girl there that amazed me. She learned the basics quickly and was knitting garter stitch in no time. She and her mother came close to the end of the day. Once she had learned, she want to stay because she was having so much fun! The look on her face was priceless when she found out the needles and yarn were her's to keep! I think she was only 6 years old! All of the people who attended the learning workshops were able to take the needles/hooks and yarn home with them for free. We had a few brave boys/men come to the tables to learn how to knit!

I enjoyed the keynote address by Wren Ross and Daena Giardella. "Discovering The Fabric of Your Creativity". It was a great talk about why we leave some projects unfinished, have so many going at once, and some of the reasons we knit the things we do. It was about finding support for your creative process, not matter what you wish to create and how what we do/learn in knitting spills over and impacts other aspects of our life. This was presented with great humor and insight. People in the audience asked some good questions and shared some great comments. Boy, we knitter's are creative, talented, and intelligent lot, aren't we? I'm not totally sure about the intelligent part in my case, why? I forgot my damn camera! S0, no show and tell for some of the fantastic knitted and crocheted items people made! One woman knitted a head to toe vintage sweater and skirt with hat to match. She looked amazing! She looked like she stepped out of a 1940"s vogue magazine! Allister, made some amazing hats and wall hanging using double knitting. He told the audience, he'd only been knitting for about two years. WOW!

Goodies!
Last but not least, I scored a door prize and complimentary signed copy of Jil Eaton's book "After Dark: Uncommon KNITS for NIGHT TIME" It has some nice knits in it. My door prize was a book Linda M. Niemeyer called "Knitters I Know" Cool patterns from cool people. I couldn't agree more. Its a great little book. Here are some pictures.

from: cool people book

i pod/cell phone cozies
The above are a couple of the projects that can be made. There are socks, a cute block quilt and other projects. Just what I need...Projects!

A quick hello!

I can't believe I haven't blogged in over a week! It may be because I've been knitting and reading! I haven't mastered the knitting and reading combo at the same time yet, but I will!!! The book challenge has been fun for me. It might be the theme or my mood, but whatever it is, I've devoured two of the books on my list!
Blogger is not cooperating tonight, so this entry will be sans pictures! I've been trying to finish some projects before starting new ones. So far, two lonely socks are now couples, and I'm caught up on my Sampler "M" Kal. I have 2 more items to complete. A crocheted bag and a knitted bolero style shrug. Only then can I cast on for something new!!! Since, I've been wanting to try my hand at felting, "fuzzyfeet" is next. I can't wait for Kate of "can't you see I'm knitting here" to see my handiwork! She is the enabler who is adding to my knitting obsession!!! (thanks Kate!). Well that's it for now, I'll be back in a day or two with more info and pics.
Have good evening!

Last week a rant, this week...Raves !!!

Secret Pal 8 ended in August, but I wanted to keep it going for a little while longer by not revealing the name of my secret pal! So, my Secret Pal goodness ended this week with a last package and my pal revealing herself. She is the fabulous Kate of http://www.knittinghere.blogspot.com. I was totally and wonderfuly spoiled by her. When you see what was in the final package, I'm sure you'll agree! Kate was not my original match-up for SP8. My initial match was not able to participate and Kate stepped in. Her experience did not start off well either. I know nothing about the initial match, but I have to say I'm glad things work out the way they did. Kate is a new friend and it was fun getting to know her!!! She also has a great blog, so check her out! Try not to drool on your keyboards...ready?

This bag is beautiful!!! The photo doesn't quite do it justice. It also has a really pretty pin, with the cutest ladybug on one of it's petals. I've already started using it! It's going to be my weekend bag. I don't like carrying a lot of stuff around on weekends. This is perfect to carry just what I need. Kate did a beautiful job knitting and felting it. I can't wait to finish my first felted fo (fuzzy feet). Now the bag itself would have been a great gift, but Kate didn't stop there !! Lookie here:

Two skeins of cascade yarn. I have never tried this yarn before. I like the feel of it and the colors are great. Believe me, I'll find use for these!! Last but not least, feast your eyes on some Twisted Sisters Mirage, in Olive Gold. I'm absolutely in love with this color. You have to see it in person! I see a sleeveless tank or piccovoli in my future!!!

Just when I thought the box could yield not more, out dropped a laminated needle inventory card. So I can see what needles I already have! This great for me, because I seem to have needle amnesia and end up with multiples of needle sizes (not really a bad thing!) Kate, I can't say a big enough thank you for making this exchange so much fun and I'm lucky to have met and gotten to know you. Everyone stop in and visit my new friend!

My spoilee for SP8 was Katrina of http://www.topekatrina.blogspot.com(sorry, blogger won't let me do the links right!)
I had a lot of fun spoiling her and dropping in on her life, via her blog. She's got a great blog, runs contests for movie buffs and has the cutest family on the internet! Just as Kate is, Katrina is generous and fun! She sent me this thank-you!

thank you Katrina!

In other knitting and none knitting news

Knitting on sampler "M" continues. I'm having so much fun working on this. It is a good way for me to work on lace knitting and to know I can't have knitting A.D.D., otherwise I forget to YO or where I am in the pattern! Here's a progress picture:

Sampler "M" progress

This summer I joined some KALs and challenges. How did I do? Don't ask!! I'll tell you anyway. Project Spectrum- was okay. I did do half of the colors and this was a do whatever months you wanted to participate, so...Success! Summer of socks- yah right, one pair of socks! And then there's the reading challenge. I did read 6 books this summer, so that's fair. Of course, 3 of the six were not on my personal list (LOL)! I'm the girl who used to read 2 books a week without any challenges (sigh). Well that didn't stop me from joining a new reading challenge. This one is an autumn/spooky/ atmospheric/Halloween type challenge and I love me some scare the wits out of me books!! I present RIP reading challenge!Readers Imbibing Peril with a
broad criteria of being scary, eerie, moody, dripping with atmosphere, gothic, unsettling, etc.

new reading challenge
My five books will be the following:
1. Forever Odd -Dean Koontz
2. The Dark Tower V: The wolves of Calla - Stephen King
3. Broken -Kelly Armstrong
4. In Silent Graves -Gary A. Braunbeck
5. The Dreaming Jewels -Theodore sturgeon
Wow, I'm looking over my shoulder just typing these titles!
Long Post!!!!!!!!!
Have a good rest of the day and great week...Get knitting!!!

MY FIRST RANT!!!!!!!!!!!!!! HOPEFULLY MY LAST!

The title is a warning for all willing to enter:
I am so frustrated and angry right now. It all started with wanting to join a knit-along that's starting in october. It's for the Beadwork pattern by Jade Starmore. Knitter's who do not have the pattern, have been going crazy trying to find it. therefore, I've have about as much chance of getting it as I have that "snowball in hell" or stealing Brad Pitt away from Angelina Jolie!!!!!!! Don't even think to ask, "Did you try...? I used every search engine available to man, contacted every library available and speaking of that...WHY DO YOU NOT CARRY KNITTING PERIODICALS,EXCEPT FOR SCATTERINGS OF KNITTING MAGAZINES AND THE ONES YOU DO CARRY WTF?!! FOR ANY LIBRARIAN'S READING THIS, KNITTING IS HERE TO STAY GET WITH THE PROGRAM. I do understand about money and fiscal constraints. Knitters tend to be generous people and we read. I would donate a subscription to get the ball rolling. (Sorry librarians, didn't mean to put all on you and community libraries!).

Rant part Deux!
The beadwork pattern is in the Interweave Knits winter 99/00 magazine (hence the library search and mini rant!!!!) On e-bay the bids have been outrageous and if you win...might as well fashion the issue into a sweater and wear it, because it ends up costing the "winner" as much as the sweater!!! As soon as the KAL officially starts , the price will drop back to the usual Ik e-bay price!

Well, I think I can't find it using the usual ways so "What to do? What to do?" Why of course, GO TO THE SOURCE! I found Alice and Jade Starmores website and lo and behold...Adult Beadwork in all it's glory. I think I'll by the book, save myself the the trouble of a continued frustrated search and start swatching! But,no that's not to be.

RANT PART TROIS
I get the book in the mail, open and excitedly look through the book...child's beadwork. WHERE THE HELL IS THE ADULT BEADWORK. NOT IN THE BOOK...WTF!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I try to look at the positive side. I can e-mail and nicely ask why there's no adult beadwork becuase after all it states on the website page "The Collector's Item" (name of the book) is needed to complete all sweaters shown" The adult beadwork was one of the patterns shown. I got a lovely (ggggggggrrrrrrrrrr) return e-mail informing me that the "beadwork situation" was well know and Jade felt obliged to write a supplement to the child's pattern for adults. NOW GET THIS! THE SUPPLEMENT IS FREE IF ONE BUYS THEIR YARN, OTHERWISE NO CAN DO!!! AGAIN, WTF. I PAID GOOD MONEY FOR A BOOK IN WHICH I EXPECTED TO SEE THE PATTERN AS LISTED ON THE WEBSITE AND NOW AM SOOL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I don't know what THE BEADWORK situation IS, but I do know I will not be buying anthing else Starmore related!

This is the first time I've encountered such frustration over one pattern. Most designers I know of or heard about who offer patterns for sale, actually sell them to the public without drama. I really want to make that damned sweater!!!!

END OF RANT.

It's not rocket science...Maybe it is!!!

No, I'm not talking about knitting. I'm talking about this $#%*!!blog. How hard can it be to put titles, buttons, links etc. On the sidebar? Hard I tell you! HARD!!! I know, just shut-up and read the directions provided by blogger or make use of the internet and find websites that explain it in simple terms... or buy "blogging for real dummies". I finally got something on the sidebar. It's the logo for the Boston knitout and crochet 2006 that will be happening on the Boston Commons the last weekend in September. I can't wait to go! I've never been to one before. I discovered it last year on the Lionbrand website of events, but couldn't go. Now that I was able to get one thing on the sidebar. Nothing will keep me from getting your buttons and links listed!!!

Let's move on to something I do know something about! The local yarn store near the hospital, where I work had her annual anniversary sale. When I say sale, I mean SALE! All items including yarn, needles, and books were 30% off. Some yarns were anywhere from 40% to 75% off. I'm not talking about yarn no one would want, but the brands all us knitter's covet! Now, I told myself at the beginning of the summer that I would not buy yarn until I worked projects I already have or used up the "stash" yarn. However, with a sale like that can you blame? Before I walked in the store I had vision my head of Addi's, Inox, Bliss,Rowan, sock yarn. I could go on and on...

Once I entered the store, I was able to keep myself in check and shout "CHARGE IT" "I want it all, every last skein, hank, ball!!! Instead, when Karen (the owner) said: "Can I help you?" I said: "No thanks, I'm just looking" (yah,rat's ass, I'm just looking!). I ended up buying some beautiful bamboo yarn to make a clapotis. I would imagine by now I am the last knitter in the world to make one. Most people have at least half-a-dozen by now, am I right? Isn't this yarn beautiful?

beautiful!
The other item I'd like to make that puts me in the category of "last person in the world to knit_________" is a pair of jaywalkers. I even have the sock yarn I want to use, in my stash.
Lately, I've been seeing stars. Not the clunk on the head, in the sky or celebritieskind of stars...More later!
Get knitting!

It's a vanilla day, week...

I heard an expression a few years ago, while I was a part of an internet group. The moderator of the group would talk about his family's day as being a vanilla day. Initially, people had some fun trying to figure out what a vanilla day was. was it about icecream ?(doesn't take much to trigger thoughts of icecream!) color? Mood? Turns out a vanilla day a normal (whatever that is)day with no surprises and life's rhythms are maintained. That's the kind of week I had. I've been enjoying my vanilla days, because one never knows when life will get crazy! I've been knitting, but feel as if everything is taking forever to finish. I have 3/4 of my second sixth sense sock done (yeah!) and am catching up on my M sampler. I have 3 patterns to knit. Two of them have only a small number of rows to complete the pattern and the third one has only about 20 rows. I will have a more complete entry in a few days. I need to take some pics of knitting progress and stash enhancement! Enjoy the beautiful flower and hope your days are pleasantly vanilla (unless you want wild and crazy!!!).

My SP is amazing,cool,...The shizknitz!

yah, I took license with the spelling of shiznitz. I couldn't help it. My secret pal is making my first Secret pal experience the best! I came home yesterday to find a postal notice. Oh no, it's too late to get to the post office! Like the postman's motto through wind, storm... I was going to get that package. I'm like a kid in that way! I could not believe my eyes when I opened the package.

I think she has ESP or a crystal ball, because I was just talking to a knitting obsessed co-worker about socks and how I loved to get the book "Socks,Socks,Socks" and here it is!!! It has some awesome patterns. How did my secret pal know I journal??? This journal looks good enough to eat. The pictures of chocolate look so real, I swear I could smell chocolate! Now here's the clincher on the ESP/crystal ball theory.

Ever since, I saw a pair of socks made with trekking XXL, I've had it on my list of yarns to try. LO and Behold, this beautifully colored trekking yarn was in my hot little hands. The picture doesn't do this yarn color justice. Thank goodness, she included some aquatanica spa, cuz I need to calm down from all this secret pal goodness! Included with all this was a great card. Secret pal, I hope your pal is being as good to you as you've been to me. You deserve it!!!

Take a sock to lunch!

I love always having a sock project for those times when a bigger project is not feasible. However, I'm constantly being driven crazy, when pulling the sock out of the bag. Why? The needles fall out of the sock and I have get it back on without messing up the pattern/stitches. So, while strolling through wal-mart the other day, I saw mothers checking out a lunch box for her kiddies that stopped me dead in my tracks. Now, I should be bringing my lunch to work because I'd have more money to buy yarn, of course. I always seem to choose an extra five...10...Okay,okay 20(I'm lying)30 minutes of sleep after the alarm goes off! This lunch box was not meant for no stinking lunch, it was meant for my socks!!! Looking at it from the outside its just a regular old lunch box. I like it because when I open it up I can easily pick up the sock and needles without losing anything. It's small so easy to carry. What is really a nice plus with this box, is the compartment inside the box.

It has a zippered compartment that holds ALL of the knitting supplies (pattern, pen, measuring tape, markers, etc.). I'm now a very happy sock knitter and keep my cursing to a minimum!!! How much did this peace of mind cost me ? $6.99 plus tax. I'm sure you can get this lunch box anywhere that sells lunch boxes. I read a blog recently where the knitter divided and lined the inside of a metal lunch box she got on e-bay. It was really cute, but I'm in lazy mode at the moment and wanted instant gratification. Okay enough about this topic.
I'm still sailing along on the "M sampler" KAL. Week 4 just ended and I'm current (hard to believe). This week's pattern is called "Roman Arches" Here is a picture of the sampler (please blogger, work!)

The blogger gods are with me. I didn't have to resort to plan B. Anyway, I love working on this sampler. I've never worked on anything with a lace pattern. So, this is good practice for me, because I have some lace projects on my ever growing list! When I started the sampler, I was anxious because there were no pictures to guide me. My solution? Wait for someone to finish a section and look at their photos. Now? I just jump in and knit. I now like seeing the pattern unfold! The other patterns in the sampler included the M initial, snowdrops, ladders, and zippers. This week's roman arches should be fun!!! This knit-along now has close to 700 knitters! The people are loving the group so much, a weekly pattern(Wednesdays) is offered of international patterns for people to take. Many of them are special family,cultural, or favorite patterns. Cool!

I'm still reading "The Princes Of Ireland". It's a good read. The first chapter gave a really lush description of the genesis of the land. The second is about the people who inhabit the island. I'm now meeting the main characters and the plot thickens. Of course any book that had druids and secret plots has my attention! It's also fun to have an appendix for pronouncing some of the Irish names/terms. Just when I think I have the hang of it...I don't!!!

I can do all this posting with pictures, but I'm brainless when it comes to the sidebar. I've made such good blog friends and read such awesome blogs that I want to shout to the world where they can find you all! I thank all of you who have added me to your list of blogs to read. I always get that "WOW" feeling when I see my blog listed. Again, thanks. My goal this week is to figure things out and plump up the side bar.
Have a great week and get knitting !

What kind of weather are you?

Wow, 2 short posts in one day...end of the world? I was playing on the computer and found this quiz. I was hoping to be more edgy or more ferocious...thunderstorm? hurricane?, but truthfully, this weather is me for the most part. I do have some stormy days.

You Are Sunshine

Soothing and calm You are often held up by others as the ideal But too much of you, and they'll get burned You are best known for: your warmth Your dominant state: connecting

What Type of Weather Are You?