Unfufu

I made these bracelets last night. They are being modeled by Unfufu my new doll. I used a necklace that I bought from a thrift store. I disassembled it and used the lavender, blue and vermilion beads. The silver beads are round spacers. The brown beads are from Ghana. They are made from recycled glass. I like the rough look but I can't understand why they are so expensive. They cost me about $13 a strand. Maybe it's the import fee. I find it interesting that they are made from crushed glass fired in ant mounds.

Ed-Dee!

Update

Well, I'm back on the A.M. shift now. It's killing me. I set the alarm clock for an 0400 wakeup. I don't actually get up until 0445 or something. I know it will take some adjustment. It's better to be at work on the A.M. shift. I'll get to blog and knit more often. Speaking of knitting, I haven't been doing much of it. I've been making other stuff like earrings and toe rings. I am currently working on knitting a dress for my doll. I'll post a pic of her later. I still have two t-shirts to reconstruct and a skirt to sew. Well, back to work for me. Blog ya later!

Hit Me Baby!

Yes Baby! I've finished the cut-out turtle neck sweater. The yarn is Knit Picks Palisades. I can't remember the color, but that doesn't matter. KnitPicks doesn't sell Palisades or any other super bulky yarn anymore. It's a shame. Palisades was a joy to work with. It feels soft against my skin and responds well to three different needles sizes. It'll keep me warm this winter also. I used the pattern from The Leisure Arts Trendy Tops book. I like it and I'm going to make another one, as soon as I finish the edges on this one. [Deja Vu'?]
And yes, I got sheered. My hair is cut way short. *SIGH*

This is Leigh. He's been getting a lot of my attention lately. I can't blame myself. I like him, but not only because he respects me as a knitter. What more can a girl ask for? Plenty, but he has other admirable qualities too. He's wearing a beanie I made for him. He likes it a lot. I used Lorna's laces Shepard Bulky in Cami print #708. It's the softest beanie that I've ever constructed. Too bad Lorna's is so expensive. Here is another beanie made with Lamb's Pride Superwash Bulky. It's a prototype of my own design. I will publish the pattern for free as soon as I make a few changes.

I just received this in the mail. It's Noro Blossom. It's fabulous darling!

Finally!

My Knitdiva halter is done. Surprise! Kiki and Illanna, I love your halters. I hope you like mine too. I used Berroco Quest in white. It only took three balls. The pattern came from The Leisure Arts Trendy Tops book. I like it and I'm going to make another one, as soon as I finish the edges on this one. I think I should give myself a few more millimeters tho'. Look what the mailman brought me today. It's so soft! I'm going to knit something for my new guy friend and it's not a sweater. He's partial to army green and cami print. I can handle that.

Tah Dah!

Here's the finished rose tote. I felted it twice in my top loader with a pair of jeans. It felted nicely. I would like to felt another bag and use grommets in place of tabs. Maybe leather straps too!

Project Pics

Here are pictures of my current projects. The turtleneck sweater is made from Knitpicks bulky weight 100% wool. I like knitting with it because you don't get a large degree of difference when switching needle sizes. The waistband was done using size 9 needles. My t-shirt was a size too small for me when I bought it. I pulled out my sewing machine and got to work. I added side panels and lace around the collar and armholes. I'm pleased with the results. I'll work on two more t-shirts this weekend. The tote bag is a test knit for SWTC. I'm using their new Karaoke 50% soy silk, 50% wool and worsted weight. It self stripes. They don't have a color card on the website yet. I've managed to get an idea from two other test knitters Allison and Stephanie . I love this stuff. It felts wonderfully. I will post another pic when it's completed.

Temporary Entry

I've been knitting a lot of stuff lately. I temporarily put down the washcloths. I will knit more later. I'm test knitting a felted tote bag. I'm almost finished with it. I am almost done with a sleeveless turtleneck sweater, and I started my halter top with secret yarn. I have two other sweaters still on the needles and another scarf.
Nothing much else going on except work, and it's you know. Work!
I will add several pictures tomorrow. One picture will include my new reconstructed t-shirt. So come back tomorrow and see it.

Dog Gone

Sunday, I made the mistake of leaving my dishcloth pattern on the coffee table. Abby the Terrier got to it and chewed it into tiny unreadable bits! She only half ruined my paper with the row counts. I was able to salvage that. Oh well it was my fault. She got a bedtime treat anyway.
I was able to log onto the Lily website, signup under a free membership and download and copy of the pattern. I finished the dishcloth last night. I'm starting dishcloth number four.

Evocation

I visited LusciousGracious today. I needed an evocation of feeling. I know art is many things but isn't emotion a by-product of art? Maybe like a catalyst. Even if I don't get it, I feel something anyway. It's made by human beings in the act of expression. I am grateful for the artist in my life. I am privileged to know them.






Cross posted

Dishcloth/Washcloth

I got the idea from my knitting partner. In the past, I thought knitting washclothes were a waste of knitting time and talet. I was a snob and I was wrong. They are quick and easy to create. You can use very inexspensive cotton yarn. They make great gifts. Just make a few to provide a fun distraction from your other complicated works in progress. I'll give these washcloths away as gifts. I used a free pattern from LILY's Sugar N' Cream. They have over ninety colors. The patterns are available at the website (with free membership) or on the sleeve.

Lookie Lookie

I visited Illanna's Blog (all links open into a new window) and viewed her new background design. It's really cute. I browsed the designer Explodingdog.com's website and I liked just about everything. I'm adding one of his t-shirt's to my wishlist. I want this one called Thinking. It's cute huh?

My Flowers

I used and modified the flower pattern in the Knit 1 magazine. I used Plymouth Encoure.

My New Button

Target's "Knit This" Knitting Kit Review

Here is Kiki's unedited review.

Ok, so the knit kit was cheesy. I took it back today. I really, really liked the yarn, but there were NO KNITTING NEEDLES. It was a crochet kit. And nowhere, nowhere at all on the box, did it say "Learn to Crochet". And the dvd was ONLY about knitting. There was a little blurb of specific written directions tacked onto the learn-to-knit pamphlet (which was tucked clear down inside the box) for this particular project that basically just said "crochet the belt". How disheartening for someone who really wanted to learn to knit. They have the yarn, and the book, and sit down with the DVD, ready to go, and think "Why is she using TWO sticks? I only have one, and it is funny looking....."
Also, I think that, judging by the host and the models, they are really appealing to small town Minnesota Future Homemakers of America teen girls. Overweight with acne and longing for something to fill the hopechest Daddy made them. I guess that knitting is no longer hip. The host actually wears (I am shuddering just thinking about it) black stonewashed jeans. And her makeup, which is quite thick, is the same color as her face. Like the no-makeup look, with all of the hassle of using quite a lot of product. Same for the nails. Band-aid colored.
I will say that the instructions on the actual DVD were VERY good and thorough. I found myself slipping into a coma, as she repeated everything again and again, and in slow motion. Like Teletubbies. "Tinky Winky, again, again!!!" And the basics were all covered, except for any mention of crochet at all. It was a little bizarre. And you got to see her pale fleshy fingernails from so many angles, to make sure you really learned to knit by watching another person, which is helpful to many, many newcomers to the practice. What else would help? Actual knitting needles.
It would be like buying a "LEARN TO SCULPT" project, being attracted by what you saw on the box, and then getting it home to find that the kit contained the clay, but a paintbrush to use instead of a chisel.
That is my review. Feel free to post it on your blog. And warn others of the singular evil that is "KNIT THIS!" learn-to-knit kits. I am a little sad that Target, my favorite place in the world, would let something like this slip into the store. I think that to make it up to all knitters, but especially to me personally, they should produce and sell their own lines of high-end yarns in luxury fibers and great Target colors at their awesome prices. I would take a huge $10 ball of Japanese handpainted wool or Irish laceweight with a snappy yarn band featuring beautiful jet-setting young people wearing original designs (free on the ball band, of course). And they should carry Addi's at 20% discount. Hey, I am not unreasonable.

I agree with Kiki. I bought the Knit This Wine Cozy Kit. The price is right. It is much less expensive than the overpriced Lion brand scarves and hats kits, which cost around $19.99. Target's Knit This kit starts at $9.99 to $15.99 for a variety of projects like bikinis and belts. I really liked the yarn. My kit came with a set of four, size ten, unfinished bamboo DPN's. I was very disappointed with the condition of the needles. The tips were flushed! Yep, that's right. The tips were not rounded. They were flat, blunted and utterly useless. Who, at Target, came up with this poorly constructed kit? Any person who crosses their heart with knitting needles would not have allowed this kit to be put on shelves as is. Target single handedly created frustrated first time knitters. Now, we fellow Stitch N' Bitchers, have to pick up the pieces, and be the shoulder to cry on for all of the first time knitters, that were led astray by Target. GEES!

After that I need a Martini. Thank goodness I found this tumbler set for one buck a peice. Isn't it cute? Target's .99 cent bin is great! The shot glass is freezeable.
Cheers!

Hum Drum

I got a great surprise yesterday. I got tulips in the mail from my coworker Debra. They came with a spring green vase and a stuffed bunny. I love them. I'll post a picture later. I emailed her a big "thank you" and a promise to knit some fine little baby duds for the new family addition. I get to knit baby stuff for the first time! I briefly entertained the idea of knitting a vest for the bunny. Maybe some other day.
Not much going on here at home. Brenden and I went for coffee then ice cream last night. It felt good getting out of he house. We were like to old ladies when it came to driving over bumps. We both ached and moaned over our recent surgery wounds. LOL! I did some paperwork today and I need to fax it. I was going to drive down to Kinko's, but the car wouldn't start. It looks like a dead battery. GEES! I don't need the car for much these days, in fact I probably shouldn't be driving. So you'd think It could at least get me down the street and back? I called Brenden he will fax my stuff for me and fix my battery later this week. Meanwhile I'll continue knitting my green sweater and my tote bag.

Cross posted

Intervention

Ok, While watching bravo this afternoon, I saw the preview for the show Intervention. And yes this is an entry about knitting. Ok, Intervention is a new reality show. They record the lives of people receiving intervention for things like drug and sex addiction. Heavy HUH! Anyway, not to make light of other peoples serious problems, there's something that been bothering me lately. Finishing my knitting projects in a timely manner. Now, is there an intervention for that sort of problem? I'm actually begging for one.
Self analysis:
Ok granted. I usually put down a project when it becomes a problem. Like I have two scarves in tangles and two sweaters that have hit a very minor snag. But that's all it took for me to put down my green cardigan so close to completion. It was so easy to put it down and pick up something new. Especially since Illanna brought me a new project book for my birthday. She made a cute stripped felted tote of her own design and I want to create one and put it in my new book as the first entry. See, the green cardi can wait. Right?! Oh well. Life's about compromise. So, that's what I'll do. No intervention needed. At least not for sex, drugs or unfinished knitting projects. Yarn buying maybe. UGH! Anyway, tonight I will finish the bottom of the tote bag, then pickup the green sweater and finish the sleeves. That's the plan. I'll tell you how it goes tomorrow.
KIKieeee!! I've been home one day and I'm already going nuts. I want to thank you guys for a wonderful birthday. I tried to get Anthony to try the Nutella. He screwed his face so tight, I thought it would get stuck. It was too funny! MEN! If it ain't steak and potatoes(or Illanna's cookies), they don't want any part of it. LOL! Anyway, I'll meet you poolside as soon as I'm physically able, maybe sooner. **SIGH**
Oh, Illanna, Anthony tore through your cookies like the tasmanian devil. He brought me one and ate two. I kicked him OUT! Can you believe it? He said he couldn't help it, he was listening when I made the comment about real butter. Don't worry, he'll be back. **another SIGH**

Not a cross entry.

Kansas City

I'll have to make this a quick one. I'll go into more detail later. I vistited The Studio yarn store in Kansas City Missouri. It was definatley impressive. I'll be back. This is me outside the store and this is what I bought. Trendsetter Shadow Metal, Diakeito,and Plymouth Yarns Dazzlelash. OK, I needed FLASH! I didn't make it to Knit Wit. It was closed on Monday.
My mom loved her knitting kit. It didn't occur to me to take a picture. Maybe I can ask her for one. Night!

Today is my Friday

I start my vacation today then off to Kansas city tomorrow. My family hasn't started spring break yet, so I'll spend my mornings shopping for yarn. I've already noted the address and directions to the nearest LYSs. Coincidently KnitWit is a few miles from my Mom's place. The Yarn shop and more is also in Kansas, a few more miles from KnitWit. It's about a twenty minute drive. There is also a shop in the city that looks pretty good The Studio. None of these have a coffee shop, so I will get some elsewhere. I hope make the sale today at South West Trading Company. I've never been there before. I added a new button in the margin. Check it out!

Sidebar

OK, I got my sidebar working again. That quiz was 600px wide. What blog or journal can handle that? I also added more buttons and links. I wish I know how to embed blogger into my website. So I have to host my own?

Sundress

I want to knit this sundress. I already have the pattern. Needful yarns pattern book No.200. Now I need get the yarn. Gelato

UGH!

Damn! What happend to my sidebar? It wrapped?

This week

I've been away from my journals lately. I have a lot put down but I haven't. I had Thursday and today off. It's been a long time since I've had two days in a row off from work. It feels great.
I've been working on my logo and spend a lot more time on my PC, Knitting, cleaning, organizing and I haven't had that "do nothing" moment yet. Oh well.
Here we are knitting at BnN on Wednesday. We had too much fun! I asked a guy to take our picture and the camera flash was off. But then the auto focus is disabled as well. I tried to fix it a little bit. I think we all took nice pictures despite the blurriness. I want another camera!

Webpages

I have visited some very interesting knitting webpages today:

The Yarn Lounge (nice site but links are busted on the links page)
Lambspun(bulky club)
Coats and Clark(sweater pattern)
Mag Knits(t-shirt pattern)
Carolina Homespun(warp board 45bucks?)
Knitting Software Inc.(how much for a whole package? not that I'm buying.)
Kaspareks(cool stamps)
Miss Fitt & Co(cute felted hats)

Recycle

I wore my new red cowl neck sweater with sleeves that bell below mid-forearm. I received complements and a question. My admirers asked me if I knitted the sweater. I said no but I could have. It got me thinking. The sweater looks as if the yarn could be recycled without too many breaks in yardage. It was a bargain eight dollars at last chance. They had a ton of them in the same color. I will go back this week and buy another one to recycle. This will be fun, especially since the sweater will be new. Can you imagine, unraveling a perfectly new sweater for the yarn? I can. If this sweater was at the thrift store, used, it would cost upwards of twelve dollars!
I will update this post with a pic later :)

DOH!

I finally switched my cable programming. I dropped the movie tier, (western, romance and true channels) and added the variety channel. I am a lot happier. I get the BET Jazz channel and drums please! The DIY channel, including the show Knitty Gritty! YAY! I was going to tape my first episode today, but I forgot to set the VCR while watching it. DOH!

Amen!

You scored as Lower Class. You're stressed over money and unfortunately you're 'maid' to work hard for little money. The only wealthy people you know are the ones who make you clean their floors. Just like the upper class, the government doesn't listen to you either. Lower Class 67% Upper middle Class 67% Middle Class 63% alternative 54% Luxurious Upper Class 50% What Social Status are you? created with QuizFarm.com

Too Familiar?

Here is a knitting journal entry that I found. LYS Rant. MWAH HA HA!

New Fiber

I just received this in the mail. It was an E-bay purchase 5 bucks a skein. The heather yarn is Barlett and the rest is Cascade 220. I'm going to make a new felted tote bag. I don't know what pattern yet. It will come to me.

Project Runway Crafts?

I watched the last episode of Project Runway last night. It was really good. Jay WON! He was ABFAB! I think the Judges picked him because of his originality. He hired knitters to produce a poncho and scarves. He hand dyed leather and used it to make a quilted coat. I never thought I'd see a quilted garment on a fashion runway in New York. He has a great fondness and respect for quilting. He says that his sister is a quilter. Each ensemble was one shade in the spectrum of a rainbow. All of his models walked the runway in color order. Each outfit reminded me of Kureyon. As if Kureyon was striped in a rainbow, fading in spectrum order. I think Jay waited until the final show to reveal his true capabilities. I will keep an eye on him. I can't wait to see more of his craft inspired designs.
Kara's collection was her usual brilliant self. Her designs were inspired by the determined, driven nature of Howard Hughes. She saw the recent movie about him. I think she lost the competition because Michael Kors thought the metal hardware on her designs resembled Gucci. I was thinking Channel myself. But anyway, you know what they say about the losers of these reality shows. That they often become the most successful. Her designs were more marketable and desireable than Jay's, but his collection seemed most likely to start a new trend.

IKEA

Well,
I went back to IKEA after work yesterday, to buy plants. I left with plants plus! I bought a lamp but got the wrong bulbs, a cutting board, foam bulletin board, metal strips, paper magazine storage boxes, tension curtain wire with clips, fabric swatch, a dish brush and rubber gloves. I wanted a certain desk lamp but it was on way way backorder. I will not return to IKEA until I settle on a color scheme for my living room and dining room. I don't want to return any items that won't match my decor.
Knitting:
Well, I am behind in several projects. I have three unfinished scarves, two unfinished sweaters and one beanie. I want to start a pair of socks. I need more time off work so I can finish my stuff. I also have to finish my braided towel rug for the bathroom. I need to construct my sculpey needle point protectors. And prepare my bedroom furniture for painting. There is a lot more but the task list is already heavy. My moms surprise scarf knit kit is almost complete. I need to write the instructions and buy the correct needle size. I will put it in a nice clear plastic bag. Maybe, a mini backpack like kids carry to school. My mom does everything at the kitchen table like, pay bills, fold laundry and watch TV etc. I know the kit will end up on the kitchen table. I want her to see the unfinished scarf every time she walks into the kitchen. Anyway, I gotta get back to work. I have a trainee shadowing me. **sigh**

Comparison

Last night I tried again using my Kodak. I used the flash and the zoom feature. I wonder which one is better. But they both look pretty good.

New Projects

Here is a pic of Brenden's Muffler. This is the very first scarf that I started. It took forever to finish because I got bored with the double seed stitch, then switched to garter.

Lana Grossa sweater front panel

I spent last evening with the nicest and most fantastic people. We met at BnN Desert Ridge for a SnB meet. I even remembered their names. It's because I wrote them down. Cynthia, KiKi, Steve and Kate with their daughters. HA! There's two more, but I didn't write their names and so I forgot. DOH!
I learned how to take better pictures thanks to Kiki and Steve. Kiki found a book called Ebay Photos That Sell: By Dan Gookin and Robert Birnbach. I thumbed through it at BnN and wanted to take it home immediately. It was too expensive to purchase. So I'm searching for a better price.
Here's a sample of what I learned just by reading those few pages. I could not find enough batteries for my Kodak digital, so I had to use my Fuji. The Fuji disables auto focus when the flash is turned off. For the background I taped a long sheet of white shipping paper in front of a box. I used a daylight simulating bulb as a spotlight. The bulbs are also called full spectrum light. I was using it for my plants. Anyway, it allows you to see the true color of your object. I need lots of practice. This will be too fun. I gotta get batteries today! I'll stop by the store on my way back from IKEA.

Needful Accessories

Friday, my friend Brenden came in from Denver for a weekend visit. He brought Wilma, a friend. After getting them settled into my apartment. We drove through the Biltmore Estates to show Wilma the mansions. Wilma works for Starwood Hotels. She wanted to see as many Starwood resorts as possible. Her company has a regional office at the Phoenician. She wanted to see that too! Then we walked around the shops at the Biltmore. I wore my confetti scarf from the SnB book and received a lot of complements. The Macy's sells clerk could not believe I made it. I love amazing people. I came away from Macy's with a Lesportsac L.A.M.B. bag.

I previously searched the Lesportsac website for a cami print L.A.M.B. bag but everything is sold out. E-bay has them for almost fifty percent more than the retail price. I grabbed a bag then Wilma grabbed another and we beelined to the checkout counter. They were fifty percent off! What a deal! I wanted to buy more to sell on E-Bay but my budget was already busted from buying yarn. The clerk also said that Gwen Stefani may not design for Lesportsac's next collection. She was right. Lesportsac has it's own collection this season called Remix. It's nice. I didn't see any of these at Macy's. Their buyer is slacking off!
Later, Wilma told me that women have scarf parties in Denver. She says the scarves sell for seventy-five dollars! I was shocked. She loved my scarf and wanted one of her own. She refused to give me her address. She wasn't willing to wait for me to make her another scarf. So, she offered to buy my scarf for fifty bucks. I agreed. I don't miss it. I can make more. Fifty bucks buys a lot of Trendsetter eyelash on E-bay.
I want to go to one of these "scarf parties." I need to ask Wilma to find one.
I also finished Brenden's muffler so he could take it back to Denver with him. He loved it! It's bright red. I used Lamb's Pride worsted in red baron. I will have a picture soon.
Last night, I wanted to go to the SnB meet at Coffee Rush, but I didn't feel up to the drive. I may attend the meet on Friday because it's early enough to avoid traffic.
I started my sweater jacket last night after reading the Translated instructions numerous times.

It is Lana Grossa Basics Modell No.2. The picture color is a little off. It uses Basics fancy print and Venezia yarn. It should knit-up fast. It requires the crochet poodle loop stitch. I absolutely need to learn how to crochet if I intend to use non-U.S. patterns. I have Canadian and German patterns that combine crochet and knitting. They don't seem to write patterns specifically designed for either knit or crochet as if it didn't matter.
Anyway, Lana Grossa has redesigned their website. The English version is much better.

cross posted in Ginean.

How to Knit Socks

Now I want to knit socks. Knitting socks didn't interest me until I tried to decide what to knit a friend for his birthday. I want to give him something personal and endearing so it will make him cry in front of our coworkers. I am evil. But anyway, I thought about a tie. Then again he only wears ties at funerals so I will knit socks instead. Since he shops carefully for his own socks, he will love a handmade pair! He's fond of the thick cotton, ribbed hiking type of socks. Now I need to learn how to knit a pair of socks. I don't have time to learn it from a book and my video doesn't cover it. I thought about attending a sock workshop at Jessica's but she doesn't have one scheduled anytime soon. I need another video or DVD so I Googled. I haven't found any sock videos or DVD's yet, but I found this website. It will open in another window. KnittingHelp.Com It's fabulous! It has video instruction clips on techniques that I've never heard of. I can't wait to go home and watch more of them. Until then I'll shop for sock yarn and a pattern. I can at least handle the tube part for now.

How to

How I Learned to Knit

My Learning to knit process became a quest. First, I had to find a learning resource and then use it to learn knitting. Whenever I need information that I can absorb in a relaxed enviroment, I get the book. I searched the public library catalog system for knitting books. None of them were beginner basics. Shannon told me to get a copy of Stitch N' Bitch. I was delighted with the book, but it's difficult to learn from a book. Shannon helped me with casting on and garter stitch. I also became a member of the Phoenix Stitch N' Bitch group. I got help there. Learning was frustrating and I began to lose momentum then stopped knitting. Sometime later, while planning to be homebound for a several weeks, I decided to try again. I went back to the library and found Bobbie Groome's knitting video. I loved it. It was a great help. I Kept the video for a long time. I kept it so long that the library figured I had lost the video or bought it. My knitting was going great because of the video. So, I returned it and looked for a copy of my own to buy. I found one E-retailer that was selling the video for sixty bucks. I wasn't prepared to pay that kind of money.

So I kept searching until I found a video on E-bay for 9.99. The seller's page listed the features, but didn't add any photo previews. I wasn't concerned. I just wanted the video. I lost two auctions before I won myself a copy. My knitting skills made a huge light year leap to intermediate. Learning from the video made it easier for me to read instructions in books. I highly recommend using an instruction video to began knitting then keeping it as a reference.

How to knit socks?..................

Progress Report

This is one finished side of my Winhara Poncho. I had one side finished, but It didn't look like it would fit me. So, I made a few adjustments and this is the result. I am sure it will fit. I used the Tahki bunny from my frogged tube shrug. I ordered the pattern from NeedfulYarns Inc.




This is my mini tote. It's the Scull and Crossbones felted tote from HelloKnitty.com. It looked unfinished and boring, so I added the flower. I used yarn from Serendipity. I dyed the golden yellow yarn using Rit. I got the felted poppy pattern from Magknits.com I can't wait to knit another one. I need to dye more felting yarn first. Maybe I'll do that after work today.

The Last Five Days

OK, here is an idea of what I've been doing for the last five days. I have been working. After work I may stop by the library on my way home. I may go to Michaels or the bookstore. Or I may go straight home and take a nap. After I wake from my nap, I freshen up and go to Trader Joe's. Or after a nap I may sit on the couch in my living room and knit.
I was off on Friday so I slept late until 9am. I milled around my apartment putting stuff back in their places, then I went to get a pedicure. The shop was lightly staffed and there was a 30 minute wait. So, I went to get gas and a drink from Quick Trip. It was my first time at Charlie's nail. Charlie is from Vieitnam and started a business so he could employ his migrating family. He's a nice guy and they did a good job. I feel bad for not getting the girl's name. I'm so rude. Maybe I'll bring her something when I go back next. I got my toenails painted red. It's so bright that it on the orange side. I call it "cheap" red.
Later last Friday I went to Blockbuster and rented two really bad movies. The Forgotten and When Will I Be Loved with Neve Campbell. Both movies were a disappointment.

cross posted Ginean

SUNDAY

I can't believe how long it's been since I made an entry. What have I been doing for the last five days?

wistful

Left to right: Me, Shevaun, Katheena(artist) and Darcienne

HEHE!

Tombstone Generator

Acme Heart Generator

Pictures

New picures.
I built a separate picture page for my crafts.
I added pics of my new adventures with polymer clay. I am trying to make pencil toppers and needle point protectors.

Thursday

I had a good time last night at Mama Java's. It was great seeing my fellow knitters. I can't wait until the next one. I went home afterwards and knitted til 2am. I don't stay up late so I was seeing double by then. I will start a few new projects tommorrow. Friday will be my only day off work this week.
I spent this morning goofing around the house or playing with one of my many projects. The Tv was on in the background. The news was talking about an experiment battling depression by researching what makes happy people happier. A group of happy people were told to do certain things repetitively for a period of three months. They were asked to do things like journaling everything that you are grateful for on a daily basis. Or finding people and and thanking them for what they did that made a positive influence in your life. The control group was asked to do nothing. The study concluded that people who followed the regime were happier than the people who did not. The news also mentioned a book by Martha Beck. She is a life coach. The book is called The Joy Diet: 10 Daily practices For A Happier Life. It follows the same idea. I was so interested, that I immediately called the local book stores and put a copy on hold. The book tells you how to add more joy to your life by people who are already happy. I am not very receptive to self help. I can't even listen to Dr. Phil without getting agitated. This book incorporates journal writing into the joy making process. I can be very receptive to this idea. Anyway, I rushed into the shower so I'd have time to pick up the book on my way to work. I haven't opened it yet. I did skim through the pages. It's looks liks fun!

This entry is cross posted.

Unsatiated

I went to six different newsstands to find knittng magazines, Knit 1 in particular. I thought it came out January 10th. It comes out February 10th. I wish that I'd gone to the website first before I did all that running around. They have a preview and it's mediocre at best. I can wait.
I also went looking for yarn and Joann's and Michael's. I left empty handed. I would have gone to some of the local LYS but they were further than I was willing to drive and I didn't have enough time. So yesterday, I decided to drive out to The Fiber Factory after work. It's been so long since I've been to the LYS, I'd forgotten about the crazy hours. The Fiber Factory was closed. So before I pulled away from the curb, I called AZ Knit and Needle. The message said they were closed also. **sigh** I feel dumb. I am working a double shift today. So, maybe tomorrow, after my dentist appointment, I will have time to drive to a LYS somewhere before the meet at Mama Java's.

Size matters

I finished one side of my poncho and it's too small. Go Figure. It has two identical panels that will be joined togehter. So, instead of ribbing it, I started the other part of the poncho. I recalculated and added more stitches. When I am satisfied with the second panel, I will then rib the first panel and re-knit it, using the added stitches. I think it will work.
I want to add more pictures of my progress, but my apartment is dark during the day. I need to find a sunny spot somewhere. My pictures look better that way. **Shrug**
My friend's mom is translating a German pattern for me. The translation that came with it is too confusing. I will bring it to the next SnB meeting.
I am also having a hard time deciphering the Razor's Edge Poncho in the SnBN book. I went to the Crafters.org website to find other knitters who have completed the project. I found two people. The first person is just as confused as I am and another lady who finished the poncho. She posted pictures with her little girl wearing it. It almost fit the little girl. She looked about six years old. So, now I have an added problem. How do I alter the pattern for a larger person? I am a size twelve in the shoulders. I need extra length in the chest to accommodate my breast or the poncho will look like a midrift in the front an normal length in the back.
**Sigh**

On the map

I was at Walgreens the other day looking for conditioning caps, when I came across a Lionbrand scarf kit. It had A skien of Fun Fur, Jiffy ,in red and a pair of large needles. They only had red. It cost about 12 bucks. I was slightly shocked. I mean, a knitting kit in Walgreens? It's official.

dye job

This is my first yarn dye job. I used Rit. I wanted to try the Koolaid dye but I need bright rich colors for my projects. This is yarn that I purchased from Ebay. It dyes quick and easy. I have three skeins left, so maybe I will experiment with space dying.

100% wool

update

I have been out of sorts lately due to my IBS flareups. I've been fatigued and lethargic. I force myself to function despite my foggy mind, but its frustrating. It keeps me from doing things like updating my blogs. I am afraid of blogging unclear and confused thoughts.
I have been unable to attend any of the SnB meetings because of work. It makes me very unhappy, especially because I have a project that needs the professional insight of my fellow knitters. I was unable to finish all of my christmas projects this season, probably because I contiously added people to my list. I am working steady to finish hats and scarves. My family needs them.
Speaking of family, my cousin came home from the Navy for the holidays. I asked my grandfather to give his "too small beanie" to my cousin. My grandfather was chaffed by the idea, despite the fact that it was to small for him. I reminded him of the new beanie that I am knitting and he still huffed. Oh well, what more can I do?
My nephew loved his hat and scarf set. I was so surprised by his excitement. I Had left my camera at my moms house so I was unable to take a picture of him. I will get a picture later. I don't want to offend my nephews vainity. He looked unkept from being in bed for two days after surgery. The scarf was in the washroom drying from being blocked anyway. Speaking of my mom, while at the hospital waiting room, I decided to teach my mom how to knit. I came tho find out she already knew how to knit. Previously, she told me she didn't know how, and that she only crocheted. My shock turned imediately into anger. She lied to me. She didn't wan't to knit her own poncho so she influenced me knit it. That's OK. Her poncho goes to the bottom of the list. If she wants it sooner, she will just have to knit it herself!
I am unraveling the sparkle hat from the SnB book. I knitted the crown wrong. That's why it look too round at the top. DUH!
gotta go buh bye!

beanie bummer

Well My grandfather was gracious enough to model the beanie I sent him. Too bad it doesn't fit. He did say, "It was a nice hat tho' but how about two more inches?" Oh well, back to the yarn store :(

My best friend the Mailman

My Lana Grossa yarn came in the mail November 28th. It took a long time to get to me because it was sent from Germany. It's not what I expected but it's beautiful anyway. I will probably buy from them again in the future. They sent the Basic pattern book also. It's in German. I need to find a translator. My pattern was sent with a translation. It's still hard to understand. I will have to concentrate. Here is what I got Lana Grossa Model .
Here is where I got it Ebay
Here is the website. WWW.WollFactory.de
I can't upload pictures because my internet is down. I will have new project pics and soon as I am able.

Greetings!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Maji's Ski Cap

One down and three to go!

Update

I've been away for a few days. I've been too busy to use my work teminal to update entries and my home computer was not functioning properly. I had to reinstal windows. It's very time consuming. I have to download all of my programs and general settings. I am not able to upload any new pictures until I download my camera programs. I also have to pack all my stuff, so I finally move this Saturday. But amazingly, I still find time to knit. I am working on a new beanie. I wanted to start on my poncho but I packed my knitting instructional video tape. It will have to wait until after the move. Here are a few new pics that I uploaded last week. Pictures

Work Table

Here is the work table that I need. My cooworker Jeff and I will make it. I got the plans from Ebay. SPACE SAVING SEWING TABLE PLAN

Double Thursday

I finished my niece's ski hat and scarf set. It was difficult to block the scarf flat due to the fact that I used stockinette ST. It turned out OK. I know she will love it. I made her a bracelet and I need to finish the charm for her necklace. Then I will ship it. It is about 62 degrees in KC today so, it's not too cold yet. I have a little more time.
I almost finished my grandfather's beanie last night. I was decreasing the crown when I noticed a patch of loose stitches that turned out to be an error. I unraveled it halfway down. I will probably finish it at work today. I don't think he will like it. It's the beanie from the SnB book. It's a younger, less sophisticated style of beanie that covers the ear. My grandfather likes ball caps, Kangol Fedoras, and Billy hats. However, I think he will wear my beanie because I made it and because he's partial to warm wooly things. I still haven't gotten my grey wool military blanket back. He better be glad I can knit myself a new blanket! SHoot!
Anyway, I will knit my nephew's ski hat and scarf set next, while finishing other projects. My mom is still waiting for and orange poncho. **SIGH** I guess I will start looking for orange yarn on ebay. Thank goodness, my sister just wants a heating pad for Christmas! Her beaded charm bracelet and difusser oils, that she also asked for, are already packaged for shipping.

I finished the Sparkle hat from The SnB book. I don't like it. It doesn't look like the hat in the book. The hat in the book must be a slighly different pattern. I am sorely dissapointed. I will probably give it away, so It doesn't constantly remind me of how much I'm unhappy with it. **SIGH AGAIN**

Sashay Shante'

I got this from Aromatherapy For Dummies. I think it's a nice recipe for my yarn bin. I just have to reaquaint myself with the scent of Lavender. I need to get a few things from Lotions and Potions anyway.


Sashay Away Moth "Balls"

As a safe alternative to mothballs, you can make your own herbal sachets to fend off clothes moths. (Commercial mothballs have an unpleasant odor and can discolor the very clothing they protect. Even worse, they contain some very potent — and potentially poisonous — chemicals, naphthalene and Para dichlorobenzene.)
Toss these sachets into your storage chest or drawers and hang them on ribbons from your clothes hangers:
Sashay Away Moth "Balls"
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Yield: 8 moth repellent sachets
1/4 cup dried lavender flowers
10 drops lavender oil
10 drops Cedar-wood oil
8 fabric squares, each about 6 inches square
8 pieces of string (or ribbon), 8 inches long
1. Add the essential oils to the lavender flowers.
2. Place the scented lavender in a glass jar for a day or so to give the scents from the essential oils time to permeate them.
3. Lay out the 6 fabric squares with the design (or outside) facing down.
4. Place a heaping teaspoon of the scented lavender on each piece.
5. Bring the edges of the fabric together and tie with the string.
6. Place your "moth balls" in with your woolens.

DREAMLAND

I had a really creepy dream last night about bugs. I fell asleep watching Stargate SG1 which probably didn't help. I went like this ---> I was on living another planet when it was suddenly swarmed by insects. They had narrow stick like black bodies with long black dragonfly wings. They had long black needle like protrusion where a nose would be. They chased me around the metropolis area as I tried to evacuate and save other people. After the last person was sent away, It was time for me (and a conspicuous partner)to leave the planet. I was climbing into the vehicle when I made a horrifying discovery. I was infected with bug eggs. They were under my skin in three neat little rows of tiny black eggs. It looked like sideways norplant or sideways barcode. The bugs weren't poisonous. They were just a major nuisance. My arm itched like crazy and I tried to scrape out the eggs with a pocket knife. But anyway, that's when I woke up. I would have rather dreamed of being a crazed knitter loose in this yarn shop. PURLSOHO.COM
**SIGH**

pictures

I'm still sleepy. But I manage to get a few things done. I updated my picture page on my website. It needs improvement, but it's a start. Pictures

This is duplicate entry.Away so long. I don't know where to start. I am on a double shift today and it's getting hard to stay awake. UGH!I found a new apartment near the Biltmore area. It is 1,026 square feet, has two bedrooms two baths, garage, fireplace, pool and spa on the property. I am so happy! The second bedroom will be my office/workroom. I can't wait. I have so many projects to complete. Best of all, I get away from my moronic roommate. I had to tell her a few things again this weekend. I had to tell her not to use me to agitate her friends. I don't want to be in the middle of her psycho antics. I had to remind her to keep the front door locked at all times and to be a little quieter after nine PM. I wake up at 0400 to get ready for work. She totally disregarded my concerns. But that's ok. The next time she leaves the door unlocked, she will have to find another place to sleep for the night. I will lock her out, by butting a chair under the doorknob. Halloween was fun. I was a Martini. I wanted to be the sexy Strawberry Shortcake but the costume was sold out everywhere. Anyway, I went to Jessica's Knits, in Scottsdale, for the first time on Friday. Sandra drove as I navigated the Yahoo map. It was a 34min drive, but we didn't get lost. The shop is charming and delightful. I wanted to stay and see everything. I bought a few skeins of Brown Sheep Bulky and two sets of DPNs. I gotta get back to work. Pics later.

UGH!

I have medicine head from overdosing on Nyquil last night. Thursday I felt myself coming down with a cold, so on the way home I stopped and pick up Nyquil. It worked. It got rid of my sore throat and body chills. But I have medicine head. All I want to do now is sleep. Too bad I'm at work.
I haven't added the buckle to my belt yet. Maybe I'll do that after work today. I was debating on hand sewing or machine. Machine will do nicely. I will get a nice line like other belts.
All of my other projects are coming along nicely.
I got my yarn yesterday from Serendipity. It's really nice. You won't believe the colors. I also got my Boye needle set. I don't know if I like them. I should've kept the package they came in just in case I didn't like them. I could put them up for auction on Ebay. I think I like the Denise needle set better anyway. Ebay seems to have competitive prices for Denise and Boye. We will see.
What I really need is a DPN set. I finally took a picture of my finished scarf. I am proud of this scarf. I was able to construct it quickly without any errors. I am satisfied with its design. Good, it stays. It took about 75 yards of yarn. I used Red Heart Classic in black. And Joann's brand eyelash in plum? Joann's eyelash comes only in a few colors.

Funny. It doesn't feel like TGIF

I had a good time (as usual) at the SnB meeting last night. I wish that I could have stayed longer. I was glad that Brooke's mom was there she gave me a few pointers on beginning a quilt. I was so pleasantly surprised. I probably should have pulled out my pen and took notes but I was in shock and awe. Everything she gave me made sense, so I doubt that I will forget it. But in the off chance that I will forget, I will just write it down here. She told me to be mindful of my seam allowances so my quilt squares will be even. I should press all of my seams toward the same square color, which means pressing them inward. I should only cut a few squares at a time, just in case I make a mistake on the size. This will prevent wasting material. But she stressed the importance of gauging the exact seam allowance for every square. She even suggested basting the squares together before machine sewing. She was very helpful. I am very grateful.
Yesterday Shannon Let me use her car. It helped a lot. I was able to get to the SnB meeting in a timely fashion. I'm very short on time these days. I was frustrated yesterday because Joann's didn't have the double d-rings for my belt. They had the wrong size and the wrong tone. It was a relief that Judy had just seen double d-rings at Michael's. I was just there before the SnB meeting and never thought to look for them. I just assumed Joann's would have them. I went by Michael's after the meetings and sure-nuf they were there, just the ones I needed. I am happy. I can finish my belt now. HEHE!
Back to work now.

OK...... I guess

I woke up this morning without much difficulty. I was able to take my time getting ready for work, but I still managed to put my underwear on inside out. I've decided to unravel the shrug. I will make it wider and shorter in ST st. I will need to decorate the edges. I am still thinking of a crochet edge along the neckline. I can't wait to undo it. I finished the Embrace scarf. I also finish and eylash scarf. It's a deep purple knitted with black worsted weight yarn. It turned out great. I will add a pic later. Here is the Embrace scarf modeled by me.

Whoa Nelly!

I just spent a lot of money today on yarn. I have spent about one hundred dollars on ebay. I will probably spend about thirty more. It will probably be enough for awhile. I think(Shrugs). I'm starting to wonder about my sanity. I have never spent so much money on any other hobby. I haven't gone shoe shopping although I really need a few pairs. I haven't made one purchase toward beefing up my fall wardrobe. I am having money withdrawn from my pay going towards savings. Thank goodness for that. But, I could use a little more going into my 401k. Sigh! I'm not done yet. This is probably the nail in my insanity coffin. I gave Shannon my Visa, so she could pick up more yarn for me today. What was I thinking? Well, I just hope she doesn't call me and give me the play by play at the yarn store. I'll be in real trouble if she uses the camera phone. Sigh! It's OK. I'll be alright. I just won't eat next week. I be too busy knitting to eat anyway!

MWAH! HA! HA!

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


What Kind of Knitter Are You?
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Again HUH?

You are "turbo" charged.
Fast moving and classy, you get things done with
power and grace. Your expensive tastes can be
deceiving, since what you really value is
quality and efficiency. As you're careening
around those corners in life, finishing a dozen
knitted objects each month, stop and smell the
roses. Don't miss the beauty of process!


What kind of knitting needles are you?
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HUH?

I like this image better. I am using my own bandwidth at least.

You may not be a granny, but you've got the
mentality. Hard work and artistic vision lead
to your beautiful knitted results.


Are you a knitter?
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Quiz time

What Color is Your Brain?
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fth! fth!

I went to Phoenix Knitting and Needlepoint yesterday. I didn't know it closed so early. I was helping Sandra find yarn for her beginners project. We ended up at Joann's. They have a sparse collection. Empty handed and on the way out, we passed a yarn rack outside of the aisle. It just happened to be Joann's own yarn label. I was surprised. It's called Joann's Sensations. It's not bad. I found a nice plum eyelash and Sandra found a coupla bundles. We are making scarves.

Duh!

Last night on the way home from work, I re-read The Kitchener Stitch part in the SnB book. It says "when a pattern tells you to bind off your pieces, don't do it. Instead, put them on a stitch holder so you can graft them later." Well, I should have followed this advice when I made my Embrace Scarf. I did a horrible job joining the seams together trying to mattress stitch. Thank goodness the nubby yarn hides my bad stitches. I will not bind off a seam ever again. I will use the three-needle method to join seams together. It just makes more sense.

Quilt

I finally decided on my quilt pattern. It's going to be a snowball n' nine photo memory quilt. I cut the templates out already. I need to cut the clothes, sort the pieces and buy coordinating quilt fabric. In that order.

Patterns

I just bought the capelet pattern from NeedFul Yarns. I had to call Canada (toll free) and order direct. I also ordered a patternbook. They have a pattern that will need a special striping cotton yarn. I might have to pickup another overtime shift so I can afford the yarn. It should arrive next week. Canada has Thanksgiving Holiday next week so I hope it doesn't get here to late. I can't wait.

Capelet Galore

So many patterns, so little time. I wanna! I wanna! I wanna!

More capelet patterns: Knit Capelet with Crochet Trim (I gotta learn to crochet),
Round the Capelet, Needful Yarns Capelet

Where do I start?

Idea

I was thing about the caplet Valerie brought to the sNb meet on Monday. What if you use a poncho pattern and crop it? I have a poncho pattern on my project list. It should be easy to convert it to a capelet. Openwork Knit Poncho
Or maybe I will just look for a lacy caplet pattern. DUH!
OK, I have a better idea. Here is a lacy capelet pattern. I love this website. The projects are fun and easy to do. The example Valerie showed me had bigger holes and the yarn was fuzzy aran weight wool, but it's still less complicated than modifying a poncho pattern. I will keep looking.

Hum Drum

I wish I had my knitting in my hand right now. I am work but, I'd rather be knitting. Well I can at least shop online for yarn. YaY!

Tube Shrug

(Singing"Somewhere yarno ver the rain-bow I am Done!")



I like it , but not on me. My shoulders are too broad. It makes me look fat or should I say wide? I think it's the fold-over. The "doubled-ness" adds bulk. I tried to adjust the look by unrolling the fold-over. I looks better this way. But if I were to wear it without the fold-over, it would need a little embellishments around the top opening. HMnn.........Maybe a crochet ruffle in a contrasting texture and color?

Embrace Scarf

My scarf was not going well when these pictures where snapped. The pattern called for stockinette but I didn't like how it curled around the edges. So I stared over using garter stitch. It looks a lot better.
Now it's almost finished. I will post the final product tomorrow.

Stockinette and Garter

UGH!

I have been trying to blog all morning. I can't save template changes or comment on other blogs. This probably won't post either. SHOOT!

UGH!

I am trying to save the template changes to my blog, but it won't load. I can't comment on anyone else's blog either. I guess that I should updated my own blog. SHOOT!

UGH!