Knit Vicious

Nesting

2011-01-12T08:09:00.001-08:00

The nesting phase of pregnancy is starting for me. I've been knitting mostly baby things for myself and friends the past couple of months. Now the busy work of preparing for the baby's arrival is happening. Painting the room, setting up furniture, stocking the supplies, etc.

This is a dino hat and bib I made for a co-worker for her friends baby shower. I plan on making a boy and girl version for myself, since we won't know until the day our little one arrives. I know of a few other expectant moms out there, so the knitted items I can't use will go to them.

Pattern: Roar, A Dinosaur Hat
Yarn: Lion Brand Cotton Ease

Happy New Year

2011-01-01T22:59:00.000-08:00

Here we go! A New Year full of moments, that I want to photograph and document. I've missed blogging for awhile and feel it is time to continue. Cheers!

Cat in the Hat Socks

2009-07-12T18:42:00.000-07:00

I like to wear them on my feet
I really think they're super neat

Pattern: Broadripple
Yarn: Yarn Chef
Colorway: Circus Tent

Stitches 2009

2009-03-11T10:14:00.001-07:00

Took the train to Stitches West this year and picked up some goodness.
Yarn from Miss Babs & Creatively Dyed, a portable Knitter's Block from Cocoknits, and some vintage buttons from The Button Lady.
The train ride was fun as always and although Stitches seemed smaller this year, there were plenty of things to fondle and drool over.
My first project will be a beret from the multicolored yarn

Color: Cleopatra
Yarn: Miss Babs Yowza-Whatta Skein! Superwash
Pattern: Twirli-gig Beret

Movie Knits

2009-01-18T21:01:00.000-08:00

Last sunday my BFF and I took her daughter to see Twilight. I liked the movie although not as much as the book, and of course fell in love with most of the boy characters on screen. There were many knitted items throughout the film and my first project from this movie will be these
Bella Mittens by Subliminal Rabbit.

The next movie inspired knit will be the Coraline Sweater from the movie Coraline. The website has the pattern hidden in Coraline's bedroom drawer and my daughter wants it finished to wear to the movie, which isn't even a possibility unless I finish this sweater first.
It's Katje by Cocoknits and I want to finish it by the end of February so I can wear it to Stitches.
I'd better get knittin'...

Down for the count

2008-12-31T15:21:00.000-08:00

So I guess the Strep wasn't happy invading my body just once this year. Less than a month later it's come to visit/haunt me again. I was struck down Sunday morning and after a visit to the doc on Monday they confirmed it with a positive strep culture. Whoopee!
So Monday and Tuesday were pretty much wasted on the couch with the occasional sit up for more antibiotics and steroids. But today I am trying to move around more so as not to sleep my way in to next year!

On a positive note-
Christmas was mellow and I think everyone got what they wanted, especially my daughter. She loved her new clothes so much so that she wore them most of Christmas day.
She is seen here wearing her new slippers, arm warmers, sweatpants, and apron. Obviously not all meant to go together, but when your seven, why not! She has also been sporting her latest accessory Fifi the stuffed dog. Much easier to manage than her new real puppy.
We also had time to do some baking and I finished this cute little number for her.

Pattern: Anthropologie Inspired Capelet
Yarn: Lotus Yarns Bulky in Mulled Wine

Here's wishing everyone happiness and great health for the year ahead.
CHEERS!

Holy Crap Batman, Christmas is Coming!

2008-12-05T10:22:00.000-08:00

Hip replacement, Strep Throat, and a new puppy were the highlights of November. Which seems to have come and gone since my last post. On the horizon are many knitting projects for the holidays, training a 7-year old to train a 12-week old puppy, and assisting a 38-year old to feel confident with his 2 shiny new titanium hips.
Sounds feasible now, but last week while I was sitting in my local emergency room with needles and tubes in my arms because my airway was sealing up and my temperature was around 102, due to a severe case of what they thought was Mono, then turned out being Strep, I had my doubts.
With the help of my parents and my friends, we are all still alive! Maybe a little bruised and battered but it really makes you appreciate the little things when you have so many major things happen in a matter of weeks.
I've been working on hats, gloves, and socks for presents, and I'm hoping to pick up some yarn today for a wrap for my mom. I may even venture into some sewing this weekend. Well, practice sewing anyway. I'm just so afraid of the cash I could drop on fabric.

Happy Holidays

2008-10-30T09:19:00.001-07:00

This is my favorite time of the year. The weather is finally cooling down and I get 3 straight days of celebration. Halloween is tomorrow and I'm looking forward to dressing up my daughter, trick or treating and having friends over for dinner. Photos 3 and 4 are of one of my favorite houses to drive by on the way to school. I love how it's not overdone like some houses but it gives you a creepy feeling when you drive by it. It probably has to do with my fear of spiders. And the body encased in a web with little spiders all around it. Ewwwww! But I love it!

The sugar skull and skeleton lady arrived yesterday in the mail and is from one of my best friends in the world. She was visiting from Boston a couple of weeks ago and although we had planned a night of mischief and mayhem, we ended up in the emergency room for some issues she was having. She sent this to our family as a thank you for taking care of her and it will lovingly be displayed on our Dia De Los Muertos altar this weekend.

Everyday is Halloween

2008-10-03T07:56:00.001-07:00

At knitting group, we were talking about costumes and how excited we get this time of year to be anything we want to be. I wish every holiday was like Halloween. With the stress of some of the upcoming holidays, how much fun would it be to dress-up. You could dress-up as a Pilgrim or Indian or turkey, okay well maybe not a turkey, but... and for Christmas I think an elf costume or angel would be fun. Things get so stressed sometimes with relatives coming over and preparation for everything that I think dressing up would make it waayyyyy more fun.

This year my daughter decided to be Princess Leia, all on her own even. Her dad is so proud. I think what made the outfit for her was the gun. One of her best friends is going to be a Stormtrooper, it should be fun! The girls in my weekly knitting group decided to do a Halloween Knit-Along, most of will be making these Leia wigs. I can't wait to see how they turn out.
May the force be with you this weekend.

Radiohead 8-22-08

2008-08-30T10:18:00.000-07:00

Last week G and I went to the Outside Lands Festival in San Francisco to see Radiohead. There were lots of bands, but we only saw Radiohead & Beck and a little bit of Steel Pulse and Black Keys. There were so many people (50,000 plus) at Golden Gate Park I'm amazed we got to see those bands. Traveling from one end of the park was no small feat. Some people, who were obviously much younger and more intoxicated than we were climbed over and under fences and trees to get to the other stages. We left halfway through Beck's set just to get to the other stage to see Radiohead. Beck played to "the smaller crowd" seen here. The haze seen in the last photo is not fog! G and I came home smelling of pot and patchouli, which may have influenced our decision to stop at In & Out at midnight on our way home.

Radiohead was absolutely fantastic! After fighting the crowds earlier in the day, I was about to call it a loss, but when Thom and the boys hit the stage it made it all worth while! Thom's voice, the lights, the crowd singing and dancing, it was AWESOME! You can see how happy G and I are when they hit the stage if you click on the 3rd photo. I've added a sampling of music here, here and here so you can enjoy Thom's fabulousness. Radiohead put on the best stadium show and I would pay thousands to see them in a small venue, although G might not let me go as he'd fear the headline "Crazed fan suffocates Radiohead lead singer with hugs and kisses!" in the next day's newspaper. I'm such a teenager when it comes to music!

Back to School means back to blogging

2008-08-23T21:14:00.001-07:00

Here's my favorite shot from the 1st day of school!
She's jumping for joy that she gets to get to see friends, old and new, and meet a new teacher. I'm jumping on the inside because the chaos of summer is over. Now we get back into "school mode". Although they're kind of boring, routine and organization are things that please me immensely.

6 tHinGs...

2008-07-19T08:24:00.000-07:00

62 Cherry tagged me, so here we go!

The Rules:

1. Link to the person who tagged you.
2. Post the rules on the blog.
3. Write six random things about yourself.
4. Tag six people at the end of your post.
5. Let each person know they have been tagged by leaving a comment on their blog.
6. Let the tagger know when your entry is up.

I love to bake! If I could, I'd wake up every day put on an apron, some good music and bake, bake, bake!

I love Isabella Rosellini. (pictured above)

I was married in Edinburgh, Scotland. On a month long backpacking adventure my man and I decided to get hitched. I'm pretty sure we're married, but it was really hard to understand the marriage clerks Scottish accent, especially over my mother-in-law's crying.

I'm not a touchy-feely-huggy kind of person. I will hug my daughter, my grandma, my husband. When people come up and hug me, I cringe. Although people say I'm very social.

I like gangsta rap! I'm not into most lyrics but I can't pass up a Snoop, Ice Cube, Ice-T, or NWA song on the radio.

I CAN FLY! Well at least in my dreams I can. Since I was very young I've had lots of dreams where I'm flying. People have different interpretations of what it means, but my favorite is my 7 year olds belief that I am indeed a superhero!

Can I get a HooT-HooT!

2008-07-07T23:30:00.000-07:00

I'd like to send a great big Hoot to Madge from Knitdevil for the goodies she sent me a few weeks ago for my birthday. I got the grooviest card, some very awesome skull stitch markers which I couldn't get a good photo of but believe me they are fabulous! A wonderful Punk Rock Crafter button, and last but not least this phantasimo yarn by Tempted called Punk Junkie!
BIG smooches Madge, you are the bees knees!

Speaking of hoot, I finished this owl hat a couple of weeks ago. It is such an easy cable pattern and I love the finished project. It was a very quick knit, and I'm thinking I may put some small black beads where the eyes should be.

Meet Hank the Owl. My BFF PinkPurl crocheted him for me and since he is made with all the classic 70's colors I felt the name Hank suited him. Thanks Nay, I lurve him!

I believe

2008-07-02T12:32:00.001-07:00

that this is one of the best live performances I have EVER seen!
Last night I went to see Supersuckers, Nashville Pussy, and THE REVEREND HORTON HEAT!
Although I enjoyed the first two bands, I have to say The Rev puts on a mighty fine show!

It was a two hour bass slappin', guitar strummin', and drum bangin good time.
Just what G and I needed since we haven't been out "alone" for awhile. It took our mind off the flood (yes, our house flooded AGAIN! last thursday) and even though my ears are still ringing a little today I had a great time!

Supersuckers rocked it, since they are "the greatest rock n' roll band ever" or at least that's what they kept telling us. Nashville Pussy put on an entertaining performance, the girls in this band are bad ass and the singer is quite entertaining! But The Rev takes the cake!

They played their own stuff as well giving us a little music history lesson by playing Bill Haley and the Comets, Roger Miller, Stray Cats, Nirvana, and the drummer sang and played Black Sabbath's Paranoid. At one point the singer from Nashville Pussy came out and sang Motorhead's Ace of Spades. What a night! Okay, back to reality...

Ready, Set... Summer!

2008-06-07T08:42:00.000-07:00

Blue Icee Tongues

Lemon Meringue Yarn

Cadillac and Prickly Pear Margaritas

we're off to a good start!

Punk Rock Sock Club - Installment 1- THE CLASH

2008-05-20T08:30:00.001-07:00

Colorway: The Clash
Yarn: Lotus Knits

I'm so happy with this months sock club yarn! Melanie did it again with the rockin' yarn and theme.
I was looking for some sock yarn for G and I think this is it. He likes the colors and The Clash are one of his fave bands as well as mine. In the background you'll notice a thing called a vinyl record album. This is how we listened to music back in the olden days (and sometimes still do).

FrANkeN-sKeiN

2008-05-07T08:17:00.000-07:00

Last Friday I spent the day with my friend M dyeing some yarn. We soaked, we mixed, we poured, we microwaved. This is one of the hanks of wool and silk my husband has appropriately named Frankenskein. This was my first attempt at dyeing and I see more in the near future. I now have even more respect for hand dyers, since it took me the whole afternoon to color up two hanks of yarn.

Her name was Lola...

2008-04-29T22:52:00.000-07:00

she was a show bag. With yellow feathers in her hair and a dress cut down to there. She would merengue and do the the cha-cha...

May I introduce you to my new super fabulous knitting bag. Her name is Lola Laguna. My daughter named her because we agree that she is so pretty and girly we had to give her a name. Laguna is the style name of this Namaste bag so we felt it should be included but we call her Lola for short. She is made of the softest leatherette material and her color is divine. She also holds a boat load of stuff, some of which I'll share tomorow.
Copacabana

Strike!

2008-04-18T13:49:00.001-07:00

Stitch N Pitch 2008

1. cute bag with ticket purchase

2. telling myself "i got this"
3. textbook form
4. in the strike zone (click to enlarge to see ball)
5. call in the bullpen, i'm done!

knitting, baseball, 77 degrees, and thanks to my rock solid pitching we won 4-3
what a wonderful night!

"One Love"

2008-04-13T00:24:00.000-07:00

One Love, One Heart

Let's get together and feel alright!
-Bob Marley

Pattern: My Hat of Choice - Soulemama
Yarn: Pancake and Lulu - Merino Twist in Crocus

The hat was made for the Pancake and Lulu One Skein Challenge.
This is not a colorway I'd normally pick, but the yarn was incredibly soft and I really enjoyed knitting with it. The colors remind me of Bob Marley, and the pattern is one of my favorite for a spring/summer hat.

New Haircut

2008-03-18T08:32:00.000-07:00

"In helping others, we shall help ourselves, for whatever good we give out completes the circle and comes back to us."
-Flora Edwards

I took my daughter to get a haircut a little over a week ago, and this is what happened to me. My super sweet overly caffeinated hairstylist, who normally only gets to trim my bangs, talked me into cutting my hair and donating it to charity. Although it is 9 inches shorter than before, it's not as short as the mohawk she dons and almost had me talked into.

Knitting content coming soon...

Stitches Stash

2008-03-09T19:00:00.000-07:00

Stitches was a hoot! This year I told myself to make a plan. Although I had a map and a list of patterns for which I needed yarn, I only came home with the yarn I needed for one project. The rest was all, well BONUS! I found a cute pattern that I'll be using with the orange-ish hemp and hemp wool, the turquoise silk and bamboo for this, the fuscia malabrigo is for these, the stainless and wool Habu cones are for this little number, and the shot glasses- well let's just say they were the most necessary items I spotted at the Ravelry booth. I figured since I have so much knitting on my plate, I may need a tasty beverage to go along with it. In case of emergency, fill and drink.
I also scored this beautiful green Hand Maiden Casbah which I am wearing around my neck as I write this, as well as some brilliantly handpainted yarn from Creative. I had to pick up some of her yarn after reading about her trek across the states to get to Stitches. She just may be the sweetest, most gracious person I've ever met. As people were purchasing her yarn, she showered them with the most sincere thanks. She was just the sweetest thang!
The Stitch & Ride train seemed to run a lot smoother this year. They had a chemo cap drive and they gave us a nice bag filled with knitting loot. I believe there was 400 plus stitchers on the train this year, and it was nice that they chartered the train just for us. We started at 6:00 am and returned home by 9:00 pm. It was a long day but well worth the exhaustion and I already can't wait for next year!

Spread The Love

2008-02-29T08:36:00.000-08:00

I received these handmade hearts in the mail recently from Viva Scrapper. It's all part of the Pay It Forward Handmade movement. I think they are adorable and may need to make some in a pillow size for my daughters room!
Do you want to spread the love too?
All you have to do is leave a comment and I'll mail a handmade gift to the first 3 to respond. I haven't decided what that gift will be, but I will get it to you in the next few weeks! All you have to do is promise to repeat the process. Post on your blog and offer gifts to 3 people who will do the same. You can sew it, knit it, crochet it, embroider it! Just make sure you ROCK IT!
ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE!

Circus Monkey

2008-02-11T08:24:00.000-08:00

Last week was busy, glad it is over.
Bunco, softball, and making costumes for tomorrow's dance performance.
I did however find time to start this sock. My knitting group decided we should do a monthly sock knit-a-long, this is our first pattern.
Pattern: Monkey by Cookie A.
Yarn: Circus Tent by Yarn Chef
Yummy!

Reproduction

2008-02-01T11:53:00.000-08:00

I've been knitting baby items lately. I like them because they are fast, easy, and cute.

Kinda like me 15 years ago.
My friend Pogo just had the cutest little boy named Tiber and I am working on the baby version of Cobblestone for him. The pattern is Pebble and I'm using Jo Sharp Silkroad DK Tweed in Beanshoot.

I just finished the Umbilical Cord hat for another friend. She has two boys and I am having so much fun knitting and shopping for girlie things for her. I DID NOT KNIT THIS SWEATER! I know. The horror. But I couldn't knit it for the price I bought it. Baby Gap has the best sales area and I got this regularly priced $34.50 sweater for only- drum roll please...

$8.23
Can you believe it was marked down to $10.97 and then had an additional 25% off all sale items ?
It's fully lined with t-shirt material and has a nice smooshiness too it. So I found some pink stash that matched the sweater and knit this hat to go with it. I think I have enough left over to crank out some booties before the baby shower too!

Rainy Day Beret

2008-01-26T22:45:00.001-08:00

It's been raining a lot this past week, but today we had teeny breaks of sunshine. I decided to take advantage of this and photograph a recent FO. The pattern: Max's Staircase Tam. The yarn: Malabrigo Worsted in Hollyhock. This project was super fast. I love the finished product, but the decreases were annoying and plenty. My favorite part is that she loves it!

She wore it in public, she asked to have her picture taken in it, and she found several different ways to wear it. She even asked if I could try and find her some tinted lip gloss to match. Who is this girl and what have you done with my daughter?

Apparently, I'm a sucker for guys in eyeliner

2008-01-17T09:39:00.001-08:00

and pink blazers who play antler sculpted keyboards in gold lame' shirts.

I've been listening to The Killers a lot lately and decided to research the band. I read about the singer and then found these photos. Not only can he sing, but he's not to shabby on the eyes either. This led me to post photos of other crooners who make me swoon.
Dave from Foo Fighters and Josh from Oueens of the Stone Age and Eagles of Death Metal.
Who are some of your favorite artist that you don't mind looking at as well as listening to? Do tell!

Pro-Active

2008-01-14T08:18:00.001-08:00

I have never met a vampire personally, but I don't know what might happen tomorrow.
Bela Lugosi

Pattern: Cherry Garcia
by Hello Yarn
Yarn: Malabrigo Chunky

Sunshine on a cloudy day

2008-01-06T14:14:00.002-08:00

It's been dreary outside the past few days, so I've decided to add some color with these photos. I've been out twice in the last 3 days, once to the grocery store for butter and once through the Carl's Jr. drive-thru for onion rings.

The positive side to this crazy weather is that is has allowed me to sit down and start on some new things, and we really need the rain!
I started some Jaywalkers with Lotus Yarns Hopeless Romantic and I cast on these cute Buccaneer's Booty Socks that my Winter Swap pal hooked me up with. Sharon gave me the greatest basket filled with goodies, like the pattern, the yarn and needles for the pattern, which are Knitpicks Harmony DPN's ( love, love, love them!). She also made the neatest skull stitch markers and indulged me with Pear Dark Chocolate, homemade cookies and other yummy treats.
I'm also looking forward to starting projects with these yarns from Wollmeise. I like this pattern for the Granatapfel (red) and maybe this one for the Poison No. 5 (black, pink, lilac).
The clouds are getting dark and the wind is picking up, time for more tea and wool.

Cheers!

2008-01-02T08:22:00.000-08:00

Here's wishing everyone a fabulous 2008!
New Year's was fun, here are photos of me and my bestest friend pink purl at the beginning and end of the vodka-cranberry adventure. Great food + great friends = great times.
Cheers to you!

you'd better not pout!

2007-12-17T22:27:00.000-08:00

santa claus is comin' to town... in one week!

or so I kept telling lollipop as I tried to photograph her for this years Christmas card. She was so bored with the whole process after 5 minutes. She tried really hard not to smile because she said "real rock stars don't smile, they just try to look cool."
After 20 minutes of begging, pleading, and bargaining (she gets to choose next years theme, WATCH OUT! she may have us all dress up in KISS gear!) we finally got a "cutesy" one of her to send to the relatives who see her once a year. this isn't it, but she wanted me to post this one instead, cuz it's cooler!

I hope to post a lot of finished knitting projects in the next week but so far I have this:

christmas works in progress invading my desk
an almost finished scarf for my dad
oh!, and some beautiful, squishy, colorful, yarn from pancake and lulu

Ho! Ho! Ho!

2007-12-04T08:23:00.001-08:00

It's raining outside and there is nothing more I'd like to do than cuddle up on the couch and get started on some of this sock yarn. Instead I'll be leaving for work in about 20 minutes braving the commute ,which by the way, didn't work so well for me last night. I probably won't get a chance to play with this yarn until months end since I am still trying to get some Christmas presents finished. So I figured if I couldn't knit it, I may as well take a picture of it as a sort of motivational tool to get those Christmas goodies done. Can't you just here it calling - PLAY WITH ME!

Hitting the nail on the head

2007-11-18T12:50:00.000-08:00

So here is the most fabulous yarn evah!

I know , I know, I've said it before but its for real this time! Melanie from Lotus Knits nailed it when she dyed up these colors and I love it so much that I might have to marry it.

Me: OMG I love this yarn soooo much!
Lollipop: Then why don't you marry it mommy?

Well divorces are brutal and expensive, and an affair seems easier and cheaper! So I'm just going to walk around fondling this yarn until "the" pattern comes along. My husband shouldn't mind, Lollipop already takes up room in our bed every morning, and the skein promises not to snore. Haha.
Anyway, anyone who hangs with me knows how much I love my Russian Red MAC lipstick, funky black glasses, and the White Stripes. This yarn is a tribute to these and all things red, black and white!
Viva la "Seven Nation Army"!

Sweaters, scones, and a big bad baby blanket

2007-11-08T08:15:00.000-08:00

Started the Big Bad Baby Blanket from SNB. The pattern calls for 2 strands of Koigu held together, I opted for one strand of bulky. I started it last Thursday and I'm halfway done. It's a very mind-less, Zen-full project and I hope to have it finished this weekend.
I told myself I can't start another project until I finish the blanket so it has motivated me to get it done, FAST!
Although I am working on these:
Flair and Emerald for me and Drive-Thru for Lollipop. I've found another sweater I want to start. The Lotus Cardigan from Norah Gaughan modeled here by Cirilia from Skrilla Knits. Simple, stylish and looks good with jeans. I need one! I'm having trouble getting the pattern for it seems to be sold out everywhere, which may be for the best since I should finish the other 3 before I cast on another.
The photos in the middle are of fabulous food and friends. We had our Skeins and Scones get together a couple weeks ago. It was kind of like our Wednesday night meet-up of Chicks with Sticks but on the weekend with yummy food, mimosas, and a lot more time to knit! I really loved the fact that I didn't have to leave the house. Cheers to all who came and brought awesome treats. Can't wait for next month!

like mother, like daughter...

2007-11-01T08:31:00.000-07:00

we hope you all had a fabulous halloween. we did!
started the day with coffee with a friend, then we got to celebrate in the classroom with all the cutest kids in the cutest costumes. had a fun neighborhood party and lots of trick- or- treating. the funniest part was hearing the group of 10-12 kids yell "trick-or-treat" each time someone opened their door, it seriously startled a couple of people. We stopped when the kids started complaining about their legs hurting and their bags being "too full". one boy said his bag must weight at least a million and two pounds!!! Lollipop was a "cheerless cheerleader" and my make-up was inspired by this cute Lillyionia doll that pink purl turned me on to, she also did my eyes for me. fun was had by all, we hope you had a nice night too!

must be something in the water

2007-10-20T22:22:00.000-07:00

Contrary to the activity on this blog, I really have been knitting. I've been in baby knit mode, since it seems in the last month almost everyone I know is pregnant. My friend Jen, seen here wearing Jake's hat because we tried to get him to keep it on long enough for a photo, (which as you can see 3 kids and 1 adult could not get done) just recently got thumbs up that she'll be able to adopt him and then just found out that she's pregnant! Mel is having a little boy after two cute girlie girls and then Carla who I just recently caught up with after 1 1/2 years, is due soon with her third.
I found this cute pattern at Knitique by Mountain Colors and am modifying it just a little for each child. I am also throwing in some mittens, and maybe some booties too!
Here is the first set for baby Jake. He is turning 1 today and I wanted to give him a special welcome to his new family. He's had a difficult 1st year with addictions to several drugs, learning disabilities, and just plain looking for someone to love him. Jen and Damon are awesome people with great big hearts and I know they will make great parents for him and the baby on the way, just as they have for their son Logan. Happy Birthday Jake!

Scrum-dili-o-cious!

2007-09-30T20:04:00.000-07:00

I didn't get much knitting done over vacation, but I did receive these scrumptious items in the mail. I'll be using Yarn Chef's Buttercream yarn in Merlot for a shawl for my mom. Lotus Yarns Nirvana in Hopeless Romantic will become socks and matching armwarmers for "lollipop" and Yarn Chef's Bouillabaisse in Circus Tent will be socks for me.

VaCaTioN

2007-09-26T08:15:00.000-07:00

Hey all! I'm on vacation. Can you picture it? Sandy beaches, crystal blue water, a cocktail in one hand and a good book in another. Yeah, me either!
Instead I'm at home cleaning and organizing one of the last rooms affected by our April Fools Flood. It kind of sucks that I have to use vacation to "clean house", but it is something that must be done. The holidays are coming, and I love entertaining for Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas, ( mostly Halloween though)! I have found some old WIP's during this process and I'm trying do decide if I want to finish 'em or frog 'em. See ya in a couple of days!

Quick Fix

2007-09-09T17:34:00.001-07:00

This past week has been hectic! Work, soccer kick-off week, and numerous trips to the chiropractor found me wanting to work on a project that:
A. is mindless
B. is fast
C. uses yarn I already have

Where would I go to find such a thing you ask?
RAVELRY OF COURSE!
I searched their miscellaneous section until something caught my eye, and there it was:
Wellenreiter by Iris Wilde
of Strickmasche
Size 10 needles, 2 random balls of Noro Kureyon from my stash (one was rewound, it was a hat that was too small, and the other ball is leftover from a felted purse), and time. Lord knows I've had time this weekend. I can't really do much else but sit and knit or lay and knit with my icepacks. I started yesterday morning and it's almost done. It goes so fast and like a child I'm amazed at how beautifully each color blends in as I knit along.

happy

2007-09-04T19:16:00.001-07:00

Knitting these socks makes me happy!

I'm already planning an outfit for work and I haven't even finished the first one.Why? Because when I work on them in the office everyone has to comment. What are you making? What is that? Why are those sticks so small? Oh, very interesting! Are those for your daughter? Nope! They are for me, Melanie nailed it with this color. A perfect blend of colorful, bold, and girlie.

"The Bag"

2007-08-25T14:39:00.000-07:00

Here are the bags that I made for Kristie over at Chickbags. The felted clutch on the bottom was a simple knit and full. I love the way these bags turn out. I've made a quite a few and love how every one turns out, but I'm really fond of this blue/green color combo. The knitted bag, quite a different story. For being such a "simple pattern" this bag gave me a quite a few challenges. As you can see the bag is a combination of knit, purl, cables, and seed stitch, easy enough. HA!
Although the pattern is simple, getting ALL that purling to look even was not! After I finished the knitting there was the sag factor. With suggestion from my knitting group girls, we decided that I needed a liner. GREAT IDEA! Oops, wait I don't know how to sew.
So the lovely Taryn brought her sewing machine and the ever so helpful Laurie brought her sewing skills. Put these two together and what do you get? A liner for the bag!
Laurie gave both Taryn and myself a basic lesson about the machine since neither of us had a clue, though we both own brand new sewing machines that we've had for over a year!
Taryn machine sewed the liner together, and then I hand-sewed the liner in to the knitted bag. The funniest part of the process: the manager at Panera's looking at our knitting circle, wondering why there was a sewing machine on his table, as well as a swift and a ball winder.
The best part: the wonderfully friendly, helpful, and craftastic girls I've met at my Wednesday nite knitting group! You guys R-O-C-K!!!

All Grown Up?...

2007-08-21T17:03:00.000-07:00

I'm not sure how this happened, but my baby is entering the 1st grade. I think I was more anxious than she was. She popped out of bed, ate her breakfast, got herself dressed. She even brushed her teeth and did her hair without me asking, and in our house that's a big deal (or usually an ordeal.) Today it was her Dad and I who were running around like chickens with our heads cut off. Where's the backpack? Is her info packet filled out? Is she having hot lunch or should we make her something? I'm sure it had something to do with the ridiculously early time they have to start school that threw us, 7:45 a.m. what the ----!
Anyway she made it on time, she got to see all the friends she missed over summer, and she got right back in to the groove without missing a beat. The smile in this photo is forced because she only wanted me to take a picture of her backpack, but after a little begging and pleading, she decided to turn around.
As for me, I'm sure I'll need a little more time to adjust to the time difference. But when I do I'll actually gain an hour before I have to drive in to work. Perhaps some extra time to enjoy my coffee and get some knitting on.

Today's post brought to you by the letter...

2007-08-14T07:44:00.001-07:00

FIBER= Handspun by Yarn Ball Boogie, the most mellow combination of avocado and sky blue, thick and thin
FELTED= Clutch I made for a crafty girl over at Chickbags
FRIEND= A fawn necklace for a best friend from Imogen

FRANK= What can I say, I'm feeling a bit nostalgic

F= Letter from a FedEx sign we drove by after dessert tonight

Busy B

2007-07-26T08:26:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the lack of posting, but I have actually been working on lots of different projects! Photos to come the next couple of days. Hope everyone is having a great week. Now I'll go back into my cave and try to get some of these projects done!

Get it while it's Hot!

2007-07-14T17:56:00.000-07:00

Get it while you can! Pre-order the Premiere Issue of Mixtape on Etsy. Justine of 62 Cherry and pal Nikkishell, are putting together what looks to be quite a zine. Mixtape is a collision of craft, eco-cool and pop culture kitsch und drang Issue 1 features:
Craft 101, trashy movies, best of Etsy, 5 ways to go green, puzzles, and more. But hurry, looks like the girls only planned on making 100, and it seems as if there are almost double that already ordered. Props to Auntycookie for the cover design, isn't it cute? I just love the sewing machine in the tree, and the bunny in the corner, and the little girl knitting, and okay I'll stop...

The Question Is...

2007-07-08T13:48:00.000-07:00

what do I make with this wonderful fiber??
I am having so much fun staring at it, touching it, photographing it. I know,I know - it's starting to get a little creepy, but I love this yarn sooo much and I want to make sure I do it justice by finding the right pattern. I love how bright the pink is, and I love how when wound into a cake it comes out with this argyle-type look. Now I'd love to find a pattern. Any suggestions?

Dead Milkmen

2007-07-02T22:16:00.001-07:00

Thanks to the wonderful Lotus Knits for making my month by sending me this fabulous yarn. I squealed when I got it in the mail, and it procured a similar response when I showed it to my best friend Naomi. It's name: Punk Rock Girl just like the Dead Milkmen's song from the late 80's, so I thought I'd photograph it with my Docs from that same time period. Yikes! I can't believe I've had these boots over 20 years. I love the contrast of the pink and black and I can't wait to find a sock pattern that will be worthy of this yarn. Now maybe I can persuade her to make a colorway that consist of red, white, and black for one of my favorite bands, The White Stripes. Perhaps she could name it "Icky thump", or "Jack and Meg". Just maybe...

Sweater swatch

2007-06-26T11:41:00.000-07:00

Here it is almost 100 degrees in sunny California and what do I find? A pattern for my Cherry Tree Hill Yarn that I purchased sometime last Fall. These aren't my "normal" everyday colors, but there is something about fall that makes me want to wear browns, plums, deep reds, and dusty grays.
The pattern is Emerald from Knitty, and it looks to be the perfect match for the casual, comfy sweater I've been searching for. It should be a pretty quick knit, but I'm not speeding through it since I won't be able to wear it for a few months. Besides, there is only so much bulky wool one can handle when it's so toasty outside.

Bean's Room

2007-06-16T16:06:00.000-07:00

The paint is dry and now it's time to start decorating Bean's room- with guidance and input from the princess of course. The goal is to have her room fully functional for friends and summer sleepovers by her birthday, which is a week and a half away. Her prints arrived from the Black Apple and are ready to frame and hang. I plan on building her nightstand tomorrow, and hopefully daddy will have her hardwood floors done by the end of this week. Bean has been such a trooper through this whole flooded house thing, that I want to make sure she sets up her room her way. She picked the paint color, the prints, and once all the furniture is done, she can set it up how she wants.

Sunday...

2007-06-10T19:56:00.000-07:00

These little ingredients, pictured above, ended up making some great pancakes this morning. So much so that I made a second batch after breakfast, and put them in the freezer for whoever gets a craving. G and S liked them and S liked them even more when I cut hers into stars. Now they are "superstar pancakes". Taryn posted the recipe last week and made it sound so simple, which it is, that I had to try it. They're great! Light, fluffy, and flavorful. They don't have that sometimes gritty, chalky, floury taste like my regular stand-by pancake mix, and they were a cinch to make. Thanks Taryn!

I'd also like to give T a big shout out because she gave us quite the spread for International Knitting Day yesterday. We nibbled on fresh fruit, veggies, scrumptious shortbread cookies, warm focaccia and dipping oil. While we indulged in those goodies her boyfriend was preparing linguisa and "nuggets of happiness", which consist of a small chunk of chicken and a slice of jalapeno wrapped in bacon and cooked on the BBQ. They were hot, but so good that even though we couldn't feel our tongue or lips, we were compelled to keep eating them. Thanks for a wonderful afternoon of knitting and knoshing.
I started a lavender skirt for S from Barefoot Knits, the yarn is from a tank knit last summer that no longer fits her, so I figured I'd re-use it.
The finished object is my grandmothers lace poncho. I will be mailing it to her this week since it was a present for her 90th birthday a couple of weeks ago. I love the way it drapes and feels and I can't wait to see it on her!
Last but most definitely not least, I'd like to thank Justine from 62 Cherry for this wonderful package.
She sent me polka dots(see cute bags above), leopard(a bag and some extra material for my own devisings) some dice, and then the coolest club, heart, diamond, and spade buttons! She also made 2 of the most ace Cd's I have ever owned and sent it all with a charming card and chocolate. What more could a girl ask for? Nothing. Thank you Justine!

Rock n' Roll, Ravelry, and Project Restlessness

2007-05-29T22:11:00.000-07:00

Share Ross came to visit Knitique last week, (pictured above with Danielle the shop owner), and we all had a great time learning to drop stitches (on purpose!), making new friends, and getting to see the items from the book up close and personal. We had our very own model, Alicia, a daughter of one of the Knitique employees, put on the items and give us a mini-fashion show. Everything looked like it was custom made for her, and she was so sweet to try everything on.
I got my invitation from Ravelry this past Sunday! I'm crazy about this site. The information, organization, and community it plans on providing is amazing! It is in the beta stage now, but you can still send them an email to join. Join, join, join, you know you want to! It just seems that there may be a bit of a waiting list.
My photo taking has been lacking as of late, and it's not that I don't have a lot to show you, I do. Let's see, I received a most rockin' package from 62 Cherry that I want to share. I have a lace shawl that's ready to be photographed as well as some "other" projects I've been working on. As soon as I get a spare moment and good lighting I promise to shoot away. Anyway I'll leave you with a project from Punk Knits that knits up in a about a night and a half. It is the Madlad hat which can be knit up as beret like mine, or you can add a crochet brim for more of a newsboy look.

Aaaah-Chooo!

2007-05-17T10:09:00.000-07:00

Allergies suck! I'm home sick day today because yesterday I spent all day helping customers with a tissue in my nose. I really got sick of hearing "are you sick or do you have allergies?" I didn't want to have another day like that because I'm afraid I might say something like "Yes, I am sick and I have a highly contagious incurable disease and now I'm going to hand you back some money that I've made sure is covered with my germs!" Oh wow after reading that last part, I guess I'm PMS-ing as well. When I went to my weekly knitting group, I couldn't enjoy it as much as I normally do because I had to keep checking to make sure snot wasn't spilling out of my nose. I called the doctor and they won't see me unless I having trouble breathing. They just told me to go out and get a cool moisture humidifier and take sudafed every 4 hours so I don't get a sinus infection. Lovely.

On a brighter note I will be attending my daughters Open House tonight, she is so proud to show me all of the work she has done in Kindergarten this year. I can't wait!

Rock n' Roll Knitting

2007-05-12T09:00:00.001-07:00

This Friday the 18th, Share Ross of Punk Knits will be here. I hooked her up with an in-store at one of my favorite knit shops Knitique. I can't wait to see her trunk show. I'm trying to finish a hat so that I can wear it that night. I know it's kind of geeky of me, but whatever. Share's current band is Bubble in which she plays with her husband Bam. The Bam from Stitch n Bitch's Bam 13 sweater. She also used to play in Vixen back in the 80's. There's a flashback for ya. I can't wait! Knitting, Purling, ROCK AND ROLL!!!

Sparkles

2007-05-10T22:38:00.000-07:00

This wonderful lady came in to my work today. Helping her was the highlight of not just my day but the whole week! She is 90 years old, sparkly, spunky, and sweet! She is the DIY Queen. Her bag is covered in sequins, her cane in rhinestones, her wallet has a great big antique sparkling flower on it, and the glasses in her hand are covered in stones. Her grand-daughter helped her with the rockin' hairstyle, but she said the rest was all her. "Why buy when you can DIY?" I think today was her first time at the store, so hopefully I'll get to see more of her. She was so nice and sweet and I just wanted to pick her up and bring her home. When asked what her name was she said "just call me Sparkles".

This and That

2007-04-30T21:03:00.000-07:00

Here's a little update from the Vicious camp.
I've been working on some goodies for a package that I'm sending to 62 Cherry. I've snapped some photos, but will not post them until she has the package. The only hints I can give are "green" and "polka dots".
Next, I got these great pair of skull needles from Share Ross of the new Punk Knits book by setting her up with an in-store at a local yarn shop. I can't wait to see her trunk show. She'll be here at the end of May- Hooray! Notice the wonderful basket the needles are in? This was one of my birthday presents from my man. He's the grooviest. Now when I ride around town, I can take or pick-up just about anything.
Check out the cute t-shirt with yarn and horns. While perusing Cafe Press I found this t-shirt that made me think of Knit Devil. Note to Knit Devil: you must buy this shirt! It's so devilish! Malabrigo Chunky from Stitches is almost a cabled handbag. I just have to sew up the seams and add the handles. I love the color and texture of this yarn, but am glad I'm almost finished as temperatures are headed for the 90's.
Last but not least, I bid farewell to my bionic leg. I went to the podiatrist today and I'm going to try my regular leg out for a while.
Dear Clunky,
We've spent the last month together day and night, night and day, and I'll miss you- but not too much!

My photographic musical meme

2007-04-20T22:53:00.000-07:00

Way back in the beginning of March, the 1st to be exact, Knitdevil tagged me for a musical meme. The meme ask that I list songs that are guaranteed to make me "speed in my car, dance in my seat, and sing out loud!".

For the last 15 years, these bands have consistently been in my life, some maybe even 20. Ewww, I'm old! I didn't list individual songs because it would be to hard to decide. Pretty much any song from any one of these artist would rock my socks off!

1. Iggy Pop (with and without the Stooges)
2.The Ramones- I heart Joey
3. X -I heart John Doe
4. X- Exene Rocks!
5. The Fuzztones- Rudi Protrudi
6. The Reverend Horton Heat- Let's go to church!

These are my fave of all time.
I also went through a crazy British Mod phase scooter and all, a gloomy gothic phase Sisters of Mercy, The Mission U.K. , and a crazy hair-band phase you know Cinderella, Ratt, Faster Pussycat, anyway... I'll quit while I'm ahead.
Stay tuned knitting progress coming soon...
Who are your faves?

Happy Friday!

2007-04-13T07:31:00.000-07:00

April Fools

2007-04-07T12:15:00.000-07:00

I'm sure our friends thought we were playing an April Fools joke when we woke them with a phone call at 6:15 a.m. Sunday morning asking if we could borrow their wet/dry vac because our house was flooded. "No really, the whole house, please hurry!" my husband asking his friend.

This is how April started. Instead of planned bike rides to the local coffee shop and a day at the park, we spent the whole day pulling up sopping wet carpet and carpet pad while trying to move all of our furniture into the ONE dry room in the house. So now we are living on chalky concrete floors with soggy echoing walls and we have to decide what type of flooring we want and where. We've wanted new floors for awhile but didn't want this to be the way to get them.

Next on Monday Bean has random swelled up bites all over her, we take her to the Dr. and she tells us she's having a severe allergic reaction to bug bites so keep her covered in bug spray and keep lots of Benadryl and Claritin around. Just what a mom wants to hear at the beginning of mosquito season!

Then on Tuesday I go for a scheduled appointment with the podiatrist and tell him my woes and he has the nerve to send me home with stomach churning anti-inflammatories and a huge right leg contraption that I have to wear for the next 3 weeks. Eeek! I'm almost afraid to leave the house anymore.

P.S. a quick apology for not responding as fast as I'd like to those of you who left comments this week, but our computer was unplugged and yanked out of the office before it started floating with everything else! I hope this weekend is better and April turns out to be less foolish. Sheeesh my birthday is this Friday! FRIDAY THE 13th, that should be interesting.

How I Roll...

2007-03-30T21:55:00.000-07:00

Last weekend I was browsing through the latest Ready Made magazine and there it was, a bike that caught my eye. A bike you ask? Yes. A bike, this bike: a 21-Speed Baby Blue Pearl Electra Townie. Although it's been 7 or 8 years since I've been on one, once I saw it I knew I had to have it. We went to REI to see what they had, we got there 5 minutes before closing, were kind of rushed, and didn't see what I wanted. The next morning we headed to Ibikes and I tried a couple of models. I found the perfect fit and bought it! I love this bike and the way it rides!
As far as bikes go it is a little pricey, but exactly what I need for my back and leg issues. It's also great to have a bike now that Bean has taken off her training wheels, so now we can ride together as a family! The other great part: Electra has a full line of accessories for your bike. Look! I've already started my wish list:

1. Fuzzy leopard seat
2. Fuzzy leopard handle grips
3. Quick-release wicker basket
4. Either dice or skull valve caps
and last but not least-
5. Coffee cupholder ( yes! they really make one!)
My birthday is coming up here in a couple of weeks, I better get busy hinting to family and friends. Happy Spring!!

Erin Go Braugh!

2007-03-19T21:21:00.000-07:00

This past Saturday we celebrated St. Patrick's Day to the fullest. The Guinness was flowing, the kids were a jiggin', and the corn beef and cabbage was spectacular as always, thanks to my wonderful chef/husband. A leprechaun even stopped by to fill up the kids hats with goodies. Although we are not sure which one it was Leppy, Lucky, or Lucy, it should keep the kids busy wondering until next year. I even cast-on the Aran Bag in a wonderful green made out of Irish wool in the spirit of the day. Cheers!

Green Day

2007-03-14T22:30:00.000-07:00

Photo 1:
Black Water Abbey Yarn in Pippin for Aran Bag.
Photo 2:
Beginnings of Cable Footies in Artyarns Handpainted #139

Stitches Faves...

2007-03-06T23:26:00.000-08:00

So Stitches was about a week ago, and I had a great time! I had
fun hangin' out with the girls ( photos from the train only since they wouldn't let us take photos inside the convention). Here's the lowdown on my faves:

Chunky Malabrigo purchased from Imagiknit
Speed Knitting book and CRAFT magazine- given to us in the Amtrak Stitch n' Ride goodie bag
Children's Viking Hat patterns from Bella Knitting
Lexie Barnes pink, black, & white Skull & Flowers Knitting Bag
My fave demo was a lady doing tunisian crochet on a size 35 crochet hook,
I wish I could remember the booth she was sitting in front of, but...
and the best shirt I saw someone wearing said:
DID YOU KNIT THAT ON PURPOSE?
good times!

Fabulously Funky Fashion!

2007-02-18T19:51:00.000-08:00

From Benjamin Cho's Fall 2007 Collection.

Yee Haw! She's Back

2007-02-15T08:17:00.000-08:00

My Clara Barton Cabled Scarf is back!
My daughter found it in her suitcase in her closet.
When asked where she was taking it, she replied "I thought it wanted to go to Disneyland!"
I couldn't get upset at her, because I thought it was great that she had planned an adventure for it. Her response could have been, "Oh I put in it the trash bin because it wanted to take a trip to the landfill." Whew! We found it in time to wear for at least a couple more weeks! As Jessie would say: "Yee Haw!!!"

SWATCH THIS!

2007-02-10T17:00:00.000-08:00

Pattern: Cabo Hoodie by Wendy of Knit and Tonic
Yarn: malabrigo 1309.1
Color: Fucsia 93

I'm not much for diving head first into a single project, but when I saw this pattern, found the yarn, and gathered the needles all within 24-hour period, I knew I really wanted to make it! As I reviewed the pattern the words "TO SAVE TIME, TAKE TIME TO CHECK GAUGE" jumped out at me. I'm not one for swatching either but I thought, just in case...
I knit a swatch, my gauge was spot on so it began. I measured the swatch, I measured the girl, and I couldn't believe how fast the pattern went. As I got further along on the hoodie, I looked at the girl, I looked at what I had in my hand, something seemed off. So I put the hoodie on waste yarn and tried it on her. OH THE HORROR! THIS CAN'T HAPPEN, I KNIT A SWATCH AND EVERYTHING!!
Don't get me wrong it fit, but she would get about two months use out of it and then what?
My husband said, "just think of it as the largest swatch ever." So I'm moving up to the next size and will hopefully have better luck. F*$@#N SWATCHES! Who needs em!

Process of progress

2007-01-28T20:28:00.000-08:00

Here are some of the things I've worked on so far this year. Pink clutch from Yarnplay book I got from hubby for Christmas. I still need to put in a liner and sew on the buttons, but you get the idea.
The beginnings of Jaywalker socks in Yarntini's Gimlet, go ahead chuckle a little and then start placing your bets, you must know I have a little case of Second Sock Syndrome. But the pattern interest me enough that I may actually finish the second one! I'm not making any promises.
Next is SNB's Kittyville Hat, I 'm almost done but I can't get my i-cord tight enough. Any suggestions? Anyone? Anyone? Bueller?.
I'm also working on some cabled gloves, some mittens for S, and I'm going to be purchashing some Malabrigo for a kids hoodie pattern I just purchased by Wendy from Knit and Tonic. I haven't even purchased the yarn and S wants to know when it will be done!

Seeing Red

2007-01-21T14:39:00.000-08:00

1.Ruffle bag for a swap pal. 2. My fave "One Night Stand " self striping hat, named so because it takes only one night to complete. 3. A preview of my Alexander Henry tote that I'm waiting to get in the mail from Novelty Creations , on a tip from Knitdevil. 4. My missing Clara Barton cabled scarf that I've had for about 2 months and is now missing! I love this scarf and I can't find it anywhere. If you see it aimlessly roaming the cold, hard streets please tell her I miss her and want her to come home. My neck is really cold! Brrrrr.

Punk Rock Girl Strikes Again!

2007-01-06T19:30:00.000-08:00

My Punk Rock Secret Pal struck again and this time she revealed her identity.
It is GothKnits!The package absolutely ROCKED! Not only was there stuff for me, but she also included goodies for the family. She individually wrapped everything so we got to have Christmas twice this year! The package was magnificent!!

This is what we found once we opened the packages: pink and black skully washcloths(given to husband & child), skull & bat jingle bells, bat sponge, 2 velvet coloring posters(one is done and hanging in her closet), B&W photo magazine(beautiful), classic cocktails book(yummy!), felted bag(sweet!), felted purple & black striped needle holder with handmade DPN's inside (very F@*#ing awesome!), handmade stitch markers in black, red and silver( i love them!), a miniature collie, and some dark chocolate with caramel(eaten!). I am so lucky to have such a great pal. This was such a treat and such a fun swap!Thanks again GothKnits. Love Ya!

Clean Slate

2007-01-01T19:00:00.000-08:00

In the spirit of the New Year, I've given myself this.

Coffee and Yarn

2006-12-30T21:16:00.000-08:00

Thanks to my Coffee and Yarn swap buddy The Knitstress for this very lovely package. There was some black licorice enclosed but S and I have just about finished it off. The coffee is from Raven's Brew Coffee and it is a special holiday blend called Santa Caws. I'm thinking of making something for S out of the pink, since she snatched it out of the box and screamed "mine!" before I could even check it out. The hank of black, pink, red, and grey is for me as these are my most fave colors together in one. What should I make with it?

Rockin' the Yarn Tour

2006-12-12T21:25:00.000-08:00

I think I'm covered until 2007. This past Saturday 4 very highly caffeinated yarn fiends when searching for... YARN of course! At 9:00 a.m. we met at our local neighborhood caffeine dealer, grabbed a hot pastry and headed to 5 local yarn shops. Here are the results, I have all the yarn needed to finish my holiday projects as well as some stuff for my secret pal exchanges. The blues are for gloves and a hat, the Malabrigo for moi, the cotton candy pink turned into a scarf that night, and some wonderful Yarntini in Gimlet which I will work with after the holiday gifts are complete. I guess Yarntini is a hot commodity, because I had 2 girls chasing me all around the store until I purchased it. The owner of the shop pulled 2 hanks out of her special stash and said they were the last 2 she had. The pressure of these stalkers following me around made me give one back, and as soon as I set it on the counter to give back to the owner it was swooped up by one of the "yarn stalkers" and she promptly pulled out her credit card, paid for it and left. I hope she enjoys it, she worked for it! But no one told her it had way less yardage than mine and wasn't really enough to make a pair of adult socks. Oh well, maybe she has really teeny feet!

Tick-Tock, Tick-Tock...

2006-12-08T17:29:00.000-08:00

It's not enough that I put pressure on myself to make holiday presents, I now have a child who reminds me daily how many days there are left until Christmas. She made a "countdown thingie" at school and now every morning before breakfast she tells me how many days I have left. I have been knitting more than usual, but I'm not sure if it is enough. Tomorrow some of the girls from my knitting group and I are going on a yarn shop tour and afterwards coming back to the house to knit and fondle our finds. Fingers crossed after tomorrow I'll be a little closer to completing the holiday items.
Photos are: the beginning of my dad's cabled scarf. I like that it has 2 cables on one side and 3 on the opposite side, but it is taking much longer than I hoped, my completed Tote Exchange tote made from Noro and Cascade, and some super groovy chocolate cherry sock yarn that I will treat myself to when I complete my holiday stuff. Hey, it's always good to give yourself some incentive. tick-tock...

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY...

2006-11-24T12:24:00.000-08:00

After waking to every news station covering the "purchasing frenzy" that is the day after Thanksgiving, I've decided to stay home and work on my own presents.
My 5 year old was watching with me asking "Mommy, why are all those people pushing each other to go shopping when they could be sleeping?". Ahhh, good question my child. But instead of going into a rant about why some people choose to wake up at the butt crack of dawn so they can fight there way to that "special item" that the store has only 50 of and then go sell it on E-Bay for 3 times as much to someone who can't really afford it. But wants to make sure their child isn't the kid who returns from winter break without the "super-hip-does everything-must have-electronic wonder" that will be out of style in 3 months when the next "Big Thing" is launched. I just told her some people think braving the crowds the day after is "fun". She just shook her head and said "weird".
Anyhow, after reading Worsted Witch's latest blog entry, today we have decided to stay away from the malls and stores and put together lists of what we'd like to MAKE for friends and family. This year we will try and regulate "the Hype" of Christmas as much as possible without shattering the dreams of our 5 year old. I mean I wouldn't want to make her sad by telling her that if everyone continues to (over)consume at the current rate, not only are we losing the fish, polar bears, and migratory birds. But we may be losing "ourselves".

Miss Priss

2006-11-17T10:12:00.000-08:00

Shown as a work in progress, Miss Priss is now finished. The pattern is from Kpixie's Midnight Knitter. I've worn this scarf a few times and have received many compliments on the texture and the color. The pattern is simple but looks as if you've spent lots of time on it. The yarn is Schaefer Yarns Miss Priss and the color is Clara Barton.
Now kids here's todays history lesson about Clara Barton: Known as the Angel of the Battlefield for her to devotion to the soldiers during the American Civil War, Clara Barton then compiled the records which identified thousands of the dead and missing on the battlefield and at Andersonville prison. In 1881 she organized the American Red Cross and remained at its head until 1904. She wrote several books on the Red Cross and was instrumental in emphasizing its work in catastrophies other than war. Class dismissed...

Knit Mitt Kit Swap Answers

2006-11-11T09:22:00.000-08:00

ARE YOU ALLERGIC TO ANY FIBERS?

No.

WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE COLORS?

Red, black, pink, purple.

ARE YOU A NEW MITT KNITTER? HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN KNITTING MITTENS?
Semi-new. On/off for a year.

DO YOU PREFER SOLID OR MULTI-COLORED YARN?

No preference.

WHAT FIBERS DO YOU PREFER IN MITTEN YARN?
Something soft and not too thin.
WHERE DO YOU USUALLY KNIT MITTENS?
I don't have a special place, just wherever I get a chance to knit.
HOW DO YOU USUALLY CARRY YOUR SMALL PROJECTS?
In a small pink silk bag.
WHAT ARE YOU FAVORITE MITTEN PATTERNS?
Haven't done enough to have a fave.
WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE MITTEN KNITTING TECHNIQUES?
See answer to previous question.
WHAT NEW TECHNIQUES WOULD YOU LIKE TO TRY?
Intarsia-Fair Isle, some type of color work.
WHAT ARE YOU FAVORITE NEEDLES FOR KNITTING MITTENS?
So far double-points.
WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE YARNS?
Malabrigo, DB Cashmerino, Schaefer, anything soft.
WHAT YARN DO YOU TOTALLY COVET?
Anything with cashmere in it, I love the softness it produces.
ANY PATTERN YOU WOULD LOVE TO MAKE IF MONEY AND TIME WERE NO OBJECT?
There are a few Rowan Patterns I would love to make, with their yarn.
FAVORITE KIND OF NEEDLES?
Depends on the pattern and yarn. I usually use bamboo or addi's.
IF YOU WERE A SPECIFIC KIND OF YARN, WHICH BRAND AND KIND OF YARN WOULD YOU BE?
A worsted/bulky handspun, multicolored with red, pink, and black, super soft yarn like malabrigo, and I'd call myself "Cherry Bomb". Is that specific enough?
DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE CANDY OR MAIL-ABLE SNACK?
Licorice (preferably black and in a rope, although I like red too).
WHAT'S YOUR FAVORITE ANIMAL?
It's a toss up between ring-tail lemurs and monkeys.
WOULD YOU PREFER SUPER WARM MITTENS OR FINGERLESS MITTS?
I wear both.
IF YOU WERE A COLOR WHAT COLOR WOULD YOU BE?
Red/Black.
WHAT IS YOUR MOST INSPIRING IMAGE, FLOWER, OR OBJECT IN NATURE?
The Sky.
DO YOU HAVE A WISHLIST?
Yes. On Amazon
ANYTHING ELSE YOU'D LIKE TO SHARE WITH THE GROUP TODAY?
Let's Swap.

pUnK RoCk PrESeNTs

2006-10-30T22:03:00.000-08:00

I would like to send out a huge thanks to my PRGE Pal! I recieved this package a couple of weeks ago but didn't post the photo because it was missing a magnet she sent, (which is on my fridge). I was going to reshoot the contents, but now its dark when I wake up and when I get home from work (damn daylight savings!). Included in the package were a skull and crossbone washcloth, (which my daughter keeps trying to hijack), a glass jar full of dark chocolate kisses, a green leaf bar of soap, numerous packages of "knit girl" notecards, a really cool magnet( which i will photograph later), and a very cool handmade notecard. I don't know who you are, but you rock and I thank you for all the great stuff.

Coming Soon!

2006-10-20T21:38:00.000-07:00

I apologize for the lack of posting, a little pre-occupied. I recently recieved two wonderful packages in the mail, and have started some new projects. I'll try to photograph and post them by the end of this weekend.

Funky Scarf is on its way!

2006-10-13T08:42:00.000-07:00

Well I finished my scarf and put it in the post yesterday. The pattern is Edgar from Knitty and I really enjoyed making it. I used Lorna's Laces Shepherds Worsted in Black Pearl and really liked working with this yarn. I hope she likes it! Props to my girl Naomi for modeling for me at our Wednesday Chicks with Sticks group!

WHAT'S THAT SMELL?

2006-10-09T21:23:00.000-07:00

Ahhh, the smell of pigs, horses, turkeys, and cows in 85 degree weather.
I got to spend the day with my daughter and 15 other kindergartners at the local pumpkin patch for their first fieldtrip- it was pretty fun minus the smells. I was going to photograph and post today, but maybe tomorrow. Aunt Flow decided to pay me a visit this afternoon, so instead I am going to take a couple of Advil, grab a heating pad, and hit the sack. See ya manana.

Speak up, I can't hear you!

2006-09-30T09:11:00.000-07:00

Spent last nite with this man and now I'm temporarily deaf. It was an evening of flames, fireworks and free cocktails. Sully and the rest of Godsmack put on a great show and I was pleasantly surprised by his percussion abilities. Rob Zombie opened for them and his show was almost the same as I witnessed 18 years ago, you know go-go girls, monsters, vampires, manson, etc. , and lots of fire! Violet, M, and I had a fun time and didn't feel as old as we expected to(this may be due to the fact we were mixing drinks in the parking lot, like teenagers, before the show). We were surprised at how many people were as old or older than us, and I'm thinking it's because you need to have full-time job/double income to afford a concert ticket these days. I mean come on, $60.00 could buy me a decent amount of yarn.

Shout out to my "Chicks with Sticks" girls!

2006-09-28T10:42:00.000-07:00

These are the wonderful scarves that girls from my Wednesday night knitting group donated to the Think Pink Challenge. If you're fast, there is still time to make one and donate. They have extended the deadline until mid-October. So here's to the girls-Claire, Theresa, M, Lisamarie, Naomi, Heather & Stefanie. Thanks for donating your time and for your thoughtfulness, I know they will be appreciated.

Shake it, don't break it! - Cocktail of the Month

2006-09-21T21:22:00.000-07:00

I know I haven't posted a drink in a while, but this one is worth the wait!

Chocolate Martini

full shaker of ice, 4 shots vodka, 2 shots Godiva chocolate liquer, 2 shots white creme de cacao, splash of Baileys
shake, pour, enjoy!

What the F@&#!

2006-09-17T11:21:00.000-07:00

From what I've heard dressing up at Walmart is making sure you wear your good slippers and a clean wife-beater.

Wanted: Two more hands!

2006-09-13T23:51:00.001-07:00

Here are the latest knitting projects: A luxurious hank of Black Pearl from Lorna's Laces, which is being used for my Funky Scarf Swap. One almost finished Lace-Up Armwarmer from Alterknits (which I started last September on a trip to Disneyland! I know how lame is that?) A scarf that only needs the ends woven for my honey to wear to our daughters soccer games, (I think I found the perfect matching blue, don't you?) I also started my bag for the International Tote Exchange, a beanie for my daughters soccer coaches, and am halfway through a blanket for a baby shower that is at the end of this month. Oh yeah, and I just started these cool sleeves too! I guess I'll be waiting until the beginning of October to start my holiday knitting. .

Gone Fishin'

2006-09-08T08:40:00.000-07:00

Be back Sunday. Have a nice weekend!

Punk Rock Gift Exchange Questionnaire

2006-09-04T20:42:00.000-07:00

1) How long have you been spinning/Knitting/Crocheting?
I've been knitting about two and a half to three years.
2) Do you consider yourself a beginner, novice, or experienced Yarn Artist?
Intermediate.
3) What type of fibers have you worked with?
Mostly wool, some cotton, baby alapca, soy, acrylic.
4) What types are you dying to try?
I'll try anything once.
5) Are you allergic to anything, (Fibers, Food, Smells that make you want to puke, etc.)?
Sadly, I'm allergic to cats although I still play with my friends.
6) Do you have any Disorders, ex: Diabetes?
Physical or Mental?
7) What is your Favorite Time/Style period, ex: Romatic, Grecian,Metal, Goth,etc?
I like bits of miscellaneous periods. I really like Ramones-esque late 70's punk, as well as some 70's glam( ex: Marc Bolan from T. Rex), I also love 40's and some 50's fashion.
8) What fibers do you dislike?
I'm not a big fan of the super- eyelashy- fun- fur- ribbon kind a yarn.
9) Name some of your favorite Artist, Movie wise, Television if you watch it ex: I heart Keanu, some things cant be helped, and Rachel loves Mike Ness !?
I *heart* Ewan McGregor and Anthony Bourdain.
10) Whos your favorite Character ex: Jack or Cpt Jack?
Randy(Nicolas Cage) in Valley Girl.
11) Do you prefer natural colored fibers, or handpainted/dyed fiber?
No preference.
12) What are you favorite colors?
Red and black, pink and black, purple and black, green and black, & sometimes black.
13) What colors do you dislike?
Bright neon colors. No desire to relive 80's fashion again.
14) What projects are you currently working on?
Too many to list, I am quite the project ho!
15) Do you have a wishlist?
No.
16) Do you have any other favorite hobbies?
Photography and collecting. I love vintage stuff.
17) When your birthday?
4/13.
18) What is your favorite food, candy, scents that you love!! Etc.?
Food: mexican, Candy: anything with caramel, Scents: vanilla & most citrus scents.
19) Are you pierced at all? Any tattoos? Can you/would you wear jewelry that isn't real?
Pierced-yes, Tattoos-4, Can you/would you?- I guess.
20) What do you like Culturally, ex: Celtic, African, Devil Worshiping, Kidding!?
I like Celtic stuff, I'm a bit Irish and I was married in Scotland( go figure).
21) What do you use to store your needles/hooks in?
My straights are in a glass vase, and most of my dpn's and circs are in a small travel case from Target.
22) What kind of music do you like? Can your computer/stereo play MP3s? (if your buddy wants to make you a CD)
Please refer to my about me profile section on my blog, there are just too many to list, I love music. Yes my stereo/computer can play MP3's.
23) What's your favorite season and why?
I enjoy fall. The air is crisp but not freezing, and it means summer has left.
24) What season do you abhor?
Summer. I do not thrive in the heat!
25) How about Sports, any that you just cant get enough of or do they make you throw up in your mouth just a little?
I like sports but there isn't anything I can't live without.
26) What is your family situation Do you live alone?
I have a great husband and a wonderful daughter.
27) Do you have any pets?
Yes. An old, but sweet border collie
28) Do you like handmade gifts?
Yes!!!
29) What's your favorite thing to make, knit/crochet or other craft wise?
At the moment bags.
30) Do you prefer straight or circular needles?
Lately I've been using circs more than straights. Depends on the project.
31) Do you own a yarn winder and/or swift?
Yes.
32) Tell us how you learned to knit/crochet?
I tried to take lessons at a no longer existing (thank goodness) yarn store, and after spending over 100.00 for two 4 week sessions, I just slowly taught myself through books, mags, and asking lots of questions at knit groups.
33) Do you enjoy getting helpful hints from others or does it just piss you off?
Anytime you learn something its fine, I just don't like self-proclaiming experts trying to fix what is working for me.
34) How old is your oldest UFO?
Almost a year and a half.
35) Is there anything that you collect?
Purses, shoes, and little vintage knick-knacks.
36) Any books, yarns, needles or patterns out there you are dying to get your hands on?
Gee, there are so many.
37) What knitting magazine subscriptions do you have if any?
None.
38) Are there any new techniques you'd like to learn?
Intarsia and Fair Isle.
39) Do you enjoy knitting socks? How big are yer boats (feet)?
Yes, but i have a problem finishing the second one. I wear a size 8 and a half.
40) When is your birthday? (mm/dd)
See #17.

One Skein Swap: Prodotto Finito

2006-09-02T14:45:00.000-07:00

Sent my final One Skein package out yesterday. I was a day late getting it in the mail, but the inside DID NOT want to dry. I hope Trish likes it. It's the clutch pattern from the One Skein book with added vintage button on the front. I also threw in some other goodies for her to enjoy. This was a fun swap and I can't wait until they start the next one.

Cher needs...

2006-08-30T23:05:00.000-07:00

While perusing blogs today, I came across this idea from Punk Rawk Purl (which she posted sometime last year). I figured I'd give it a try. Just type in your name and add the word needs and see what the Google Gods come up with. Here's mine:

1. Cher needs to accept that no one is self-sufficient all the time and to be gentler with her "childish" emotional needs and wants.
2. Cher needs to take a break, she has been on tour for...I don't know how many years.
3. Cher needs to make a new cd, because her voice is one of a kind, and we love her so much.
4. Cher needs a job...
5. Cher needs my help with her yardsale.
6. Cher needs to study up on her politics before showing her ignorance of the issue.
7. Cher needs a clue for Christmas.
8. Cher needs the profits from t-shirt sales at $35 each to pay for more surgery.
9. Cher needs $30 million for a family crisis.
10. New York needs Cher!

Pretty funny, eh? I must admit I do agree with them on #4, (a new one), and #'s 9(a million will do), and 10 (duh!). Ciao.

Happy Trails to you...

2006-08-21T20:41:00.000-07:00

Well here she is, the Noni bag I made for my KSKS Pal. I hope that KnitWit Momma likes her. I must admit that once she was complete, I was very tempted to keep her for myself, but I figured it wouldn't be fair to her owner since I picked these colors specifically for her. Who knows, I may get to see her again since my pal is somewhat local. Farewell Miss Thing, have a safe journey... until we meet again.

FuNkY sCaRf SwAp

2006-08-19T20:29:00.000-07:00

1. ARE YOU ALLERGIC TO ANY FIBERS?
Not as far as I know, but I do get a tickle in my nose when I wear mohair and alpaca. Not that it stops me from wearing those fibers.
2. DO YOU PREFER ANY FIBERS OVER OTHERS?
I really love soft fibers. I'm working with some Malabrigo right now and I just got some Cashmerino that feels good as well. I like lots of different fibers, and I'll wear almost anything as long as it isn't too scratchy around my neck.
3. THINKING BACK TO SCOUT'S POST ABOUT WHAT FUNKY MEANS TO YOU, POST AN IMAGE OF SOMETHING THAT YOU THINK IS FUNKY!
Green sweater photo above.
4. WOULD YOU PREFER FUNKY YARN OR A FUNKY PATTERN?
I'll let my pal decide!
5. WHAT ARE YOU FAVORITE COLORS?
Deep rich reds and black- and army greens, pinks and greys.
6. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PIECE OF ART?
Just about any photograph from Man Ray.( photo above)
7. WHAT COLORS WOULD YOU NEVER HAVE UP CLOSE TO YOUR PRETTY FACE?
Yellows, peaches, or anything neon.
8. WOULD YOU PREFER AN ACTUAL SCARF OR A COWL?
A scarf please.
9. DO YOU PREFER A WIDER/SHORTER SCRAF OR A THIN/LONG SCARF?
Thin/medium-long or medium/medium-long. I'm 5'8".
10. WHAT IS THE CLIMATE LIKE WHERE YOU LIVE?
Pretty mild, but I do like to go to the snow in the winter. I wear scarves as an alternative to sweaters. If my neck is warm, I'm warm.
11. WOULD YOU PREFER A FUNCTIONAL SCARF OR JUST ONE TO FUNK UP YOUR WARDROBE?
Probably one to funk up my wardrobe. I usually wear basic but boring black t-shirts, with jeans or army green pants and a pair of converse or mary-janes.
12. WHAT ELSE WOULD YOU LIKE YOUR PARTNER TO KNOW ABOUT YOU?
I'm pretty open to anything. I love the idea of letting someone be creative and funky to come up with something they'd think I'd like. I love vintage stuff, retro kitsch stuff, as well as classic romantic things with a modern edge. Even though my wardrobe is plain and simple, I love to funk it up with accessories.

Kindergarten is gonna R-O-C-K !!!

2006-08-15T22:38:00.000-07:00

Next Tuesday will be my daughters 1st day of Kindergarten. Pictured here with friends who will be attending the same school. My friend Naomi had an American Idol birthday party for her oldest daughter, and all the kids got dressed up in their favorite rockstar gear. My daughter asked me to knit her a Hannah Montana outfit (those of you with youngins know she's a crowd favorite) , and after I got done explaining how long it would take me to knit jeans, a shirt, a cowgirl hat, etc., we settled on this outfit. Pink AC/DC t-shirt (hubbies input), a leopard print mini-skirt (she luvs the Cheetah Girls), pink knee-hi's and brown motorcycle boots (my idea, so the outfit wouldn't look too cheetah-eee). Anyway, the kids had a great time and even some of the adults joined in. It makes me wonder, did I ever think I looked this cool in Kindergarten? Did I care? I think my main focus was ABC's and how to spell my name. Oh well just wondering...

Delivery Confirmation Status: Recieved!

2006-08-10T23:19:00.000-07:00

After a day of dealing with full moon crazed customers, I came home to this wonderful surprise! A very large box sitting on my kitchen table just waiting to be opened. I started ripping into the box as my husband sat chuckling, amused by my actions which closely resembled a child on Christmas day. This is my 1st completed swap and it way exceeded my expectations! I got so into planning my pals kit that I almost forgot I would be recieving one as well. Look what I found inside:

A beautiful felted bag in
blue, green,black,purple
and orange.
Tasty treats including
bazooka gum, mini m&m's,
& knitting girl mints.
3 separate sock pattterns,
a magic loop handbook and an addi circular
to use with it, a mini-sock keychain kit,
a hank of yarn in Tiger from Sunshine Yarns,
a finger yarn guide, and a very nice note
on super cute knitting stationery.

Thank you so much to Dani for this wonderful package. I'm in awe of all the great stuff, and I can't wait to use the yarn and try these new techniques. You're AWESOME!!

I said "W I P it, W I P it good!"

2006-07-22T12:47:00.000-07:00

These are a few of my works in progress. 1. Pink scarf for the Think Pink Challenge. 2. Black twitterpated purse needs a liner,(found this pink, black and white skirt at a thrift shop and thought it would make a perfect lining). 3. Pink and Brown Noni (soon to be felted) purse for my KSKS Pal. 4. Socks made with Scout's Hurricane Yarn in Run Like Hell. My goal is to finish them this week so I can start other projects. One being a new knitalong to help me finish items for my daughter. If you are a mom who knits for everyone else except your kids, click the Little Bit Knits button and play along.

I've got mail

2006-07-18T07:51:00.000-07:00

My One Skein SP Package arrived and I am in love with the contents! So much so that I have been looking for patterns that use DK tweed or #9 needles just so I can use this stuff! The package contained a ball of Jo Sharp Silkroad DK Tweed in Beanshoot, a pair of #9 Beechwood knitting needles with green tips and a package of super cute Knitting Girl mints that are green apple flavored(yummy!). So here is a shout out to my secret pal. Thank you very much, YOU ROCK!

Tra La La, La La La La... Cocktail of the Week

2006-07-06T22:00:00.000-07:00

The Banana Split(s)

1 shot banana liquer
1 shot Kahlua
half and half
pineapple juice
cherries

Combine ingredients, shake, and pour over ice in cocktail glass.
Garnish with cherries!

My vacation-Blue sky, lake, and lips...

2006-07-02T21:52:00.000-07:00

Just back from 3 days of much needed rest and relaxation in Tahoe. We got a nice little lake front cottage and hung out on the beach all day. I packed my knitting hoping to get a lot done, but instead found myself mesmerized by the beautiful blue lake with its snow capped mountains, and cotton candy clouds. My daughter frolicked in the water while hubby and I took turns standing knee deep in the toe-numbing lake. Bean's little chin was shivering and she had goosebumps all over, but she did not want to get out! We finally had to pull her out once her lips got bluer than the water, yet she denies ever being cold!! Kids, you gotta love 'em.
Even though I didn't get much knitting done, I did have the opportunity to teach both of my aunts to knit. One night we were up until 1:00 a.m. learning the basics and when I woke up that morning there was my Aunt Maria sitting on her patio knitting away. I was so proud!

Graduation-Celebration-Vacation...

2006-06-23T23:45:00.000-07:00

My daughter graduated pre-school this afternoon,(yes, I cried). Tomorrow we will be celebrating her birthday at the roller skating rink(thank goodness it's inside, since it is supposed to reach 110 degrees), and today is my first day of vacation! Hooray! I'll try and post some of my new projects by Sunday. Have a great weekend y'all!

Knit Swap Kit Swap

2006-06-19T23:23:00.000-07:00

Yay! My kitter got in touch with me yesterday, so here are my answers to the questionnaire. This is such a great swap. I'm looking forward to all the creativity that this swap produces.

What are your favorite colors? Deep reds, pinks, and oranges, & greens, purples and black.
Are you a new sock knitter? How long have you been knitting socks? Yes. Only about 3 months.
Do you prefer solid or multicolored yarn? Multicolored.
What fibers do you prefer in sock yarn? Wool. I haven't really tried anything else, yet.
Where do you usually knit socks? On the couch at home, in the breakroom at work, and on the bench during my daughters ballet class.
How do you usually carry/store small projects? In a small silk bag, or my small basket from Trader Joes.
What are your favorite sock knitting patterns? Since I'm fairly new to socks I can't really say I have a fave, but there are sooo many I want to make. I just got the Sensational Knitted Socks book, and I love it, so many ideas!
What are your favorite sock knitting techniques? See answer above.
What new techniques would you like to try? I'm up for anything!!
Do you prefer circular or dpns for sock knitting? DPN's.
What are some of your favorite yarns? For sock knitting I've only used Claudia HandPaints, but I just got some of Scout's Hurricane sock yarn, and picked up some MegaBoots stretch for my husband.
What yarn do you totally covet? I really like Malabrigo, because it's so plush and fluffy and I love their colors. I also like just about anything with a good amount of cashmere in it.
Any pattern you would love to make if money and time were no object? Ummm. Again there are so many, I just can't decide.
Favorite kind of needles(brand, materials, straights or circs, etc)? I like wood or bamboo dpn's for sock knitting, but my fave needles are addi's.
If you were a specific kind of yarn, which brand and kind of yarn would you be? Manos del Uruguay color 115.
Do you have a fave candy or mail-able snack? I love anything with caramel in it. I am also addicted to Altoids Raspberry,Tangerine, and Apple flavored sour candies.
What's you fave animal? Ring-tailed lemur.
Do you have any pets? What are their species/names/ages? Yes. A border collie named Ansel, he is 11 years old.
If you were a color what color would you be? RED.
Describe you fave shirt? Black v-neck t-shirts.
What is you most inspiring image, flower, or objects in nature? Right now I'm obsessed with clouds. I love to photograph them in black and white.
Tell me the best quote you've ever heard or read. "Saturate yourself with your subject and the camera will all but take you by the hand."-Margaret Bourke-White.
Do you have a wishlist? Yes, on amazon but I haven't updtaed in a couple of months.
Anything you'd like to share with the group today? yeah! let's get this party started!!

Cocktail of the Week

2006-06-15T23:41:00.000-07:00

The Mary Pickford

1 1/2 oz. light rum
1 oz. pineapple juice
1/2 tsp maraschino liquer
1/2 tsp grenadine
1 maraschino cherry

Combine rum, pineapple juice, maraschino liquer, and grenadine in a shaker half filled with ice cubes.
Shake well, strain into a cocktail glass and top with a cherry!

Sit and watch a classic, and in no time you'll be feeling like America's Sweetheart!

Camera on the fritz !

2006-06-05T22:52:00.000-07:00

Sorry I haven't posted in awhile but my camera is on its last leg and now I can't even get my card to read in the reader! Aaaaargh! Here's what I've been up to: I just packed up the box for my One Skein Secret Pal and it should get to her by the end of the week. I just purchased what looks to be a great pattern book from Knit Pixie called Barefoot Knits in which I hope to find great patterns to knit for my bebe girl. I'm halfway through my 1st scarf for the Think Pink Challenge, halfway through 2 socks in different yarn, and occasionally I pick up my sweater and try to work 6-8 rows before getting bored and stick it in its basket. Since I 'm unable to post current photos, here are some I meant to post in the past but never got to get around to. My bebe in crocheted cowgirl hat from the cover of the Happy Hooker book, my mom in "Mini Poncho" from Interweave Knits, my birthday stash from friends and family(thanks, i *heart* u guys!), and my bebe getting luv'd up by debbie stoller on the train. She is still trying to figure out how the lady from mommy's book came to life and went to Berkeley with us, (Deb was wearing the exact outfit, head to toe, that she had on the cover). Hopefully I can get this camera thing worked out by the end of the week.XOXOXO.