Megan Crochets

Pattern Correction

2006-11-01T23:08:00.000-06:00

Hi! I'm posting just in case anyone finds me through the Crochet Pattern-a-day calendar (I'm December 13, 2007). If you're interested in making the Sherbet Ripple Afghan, you'll need two skeins of Caron Simply Soft in Bone (the calendar states you'll need one).

If you have any questions, you can comment at my new blog, Woolly Interlude.

And if you're here because you missed my big move, come see what you've missed!

Hey, there!

2006-10-12T12:46:00.000-05:00

Back again, to say don't forget I moved! Come check me out at Woolly Interlude, and see fun things like the squirrels.

I love the squirrels!

Just a Reminder

2006-09-30T22:05:00.000-05:00

Hey, all, just a friendly reminder here that I've moved over to Woolly Interlude! Wanna visit?

Virtual Move

2006-09-22T12:55:00.000-05:00

Hey, everybody! Sorry I haven't updated earlier this week, but I've been in the process of picking up and moving from good ole Megan Crochets over to Woolly Interlude.

So, if you'd like to change your links and follow me, I'd love to have you. I imported all of my posts from here to there, but I'll still leave this site up for a little while.

Go Hawks!

2006-09-16T16:07:00.000-05:00

Sorry, had to get that out of my system. My favorite football team, the Iowa Hawkeyes, just beat Iowa State, our rival, which always makes me happy. And, of course, I'm also happy that we have cable now, because otherwise I'd have to find a much more difficult way of getting the play-by-play. And after watching every game for four years as a member of the marching band, well, it's important to see the play-by-play. And the best thing is that the networks are getting better about playing footage of the marching bands and having a microphone on them, which (I think) really improves the broadcast.

And that's enough football, isn't it? Apologies for any tangents I take from now until, oh, early January. I'll try to keep them minimal :)

In other news, um, I didn't knit anything yesterday. But I did read some more of those library books, and some of them were great. I checked out Barbara Walker's fourth Treasury, which is interesting, but a little too much about mosaic knitting for me. There were a lot of great lace patterns, although one was a bit too much like a swastika for my tastes. All in all, I'll be making some notes, and I'd check it out again, maybe photocopy a couple of great patterns, but I wouldn't buy this book unless I found it for $5, which is unlikely.

I also checked out Knitted Shawls, Stoles, & Scarves by Nancie Wiseman, and it's okay. The only thing I would knit out of it is the Lavender Linen Lace Shawl, but if I ever want to do entrelac, her instructions seemed pretty good.

I got another Wiseman book, though, that was interesting: The Knitter's Book of Finishing Techniques. It covers various cast-ons and bind offs, as well as increases and decreases, seams, picking up stitches, etc. Some of the information was really basic, and in many ways I prefer the articles Knitty has had on cast-ons and bind offs, but I hadn't seen the chained cast-on before. It's a provisional cast-on worked by crocheting a chain over the needle, which eliminates the need to pick up stitches from a crocheted chain. I think I'll definitely use this one. This book is useful, and it's spiral bound, which is a huge plus, but I think a lot of the techniques are adequately covered on the internet. It would be good to have around if you didn't want to have to look things up online, though.

I'll save the other two books for a little later, but they're the two I liked best. Besides, I've got another football game to watch....

Clearly a Knitter

2006-09-15T00:59:00.000-05:00

So, my Lace Swap partner over at Crafty Bean got her package from me the other day, which is exciting. Obviously, people like to tuck fun extras into their packages, and mine was a big knitting needle magnet I found at my favorite LYS, Sophie's Fine Yarn Shoppe. It's a great way to show everyone that you're clearly a knitter, as you can see below.

I also, you know, like that it's pink.

In other news, here's a picture of what I got from my swap partner, Lindy. I love the color of the Karabella Lace Mohair, and there's some gorgeous brown alpaca in there, too.

Of course, there were also goodies like tea, chocolate, knitting and cooking magazines, a magnet, pens, and I could go on. And a couple of great Karabella patterns that should be lots of fun to knit!

And because I have no exciting knitting progress to show you (note that I don't say there wasn't any, just that it wasn't exciting), I'll distract you all with pumpkins! Tracy knit and felted some awesome pumpkins earlier this week, and posted a pattern for the mini ones. I think they'd be an awesome centerpiece for Thanksgiving dinner, and Tracy also suggested using them as pincushions, and filling the stem with sand to keep your pins sharp. What a great idea! Any of you who knit for the Preemie Project will no doubt already know exactly how creative Tracy is, but if you haven't stumbled across her blog yet, check it out. There's always something totally inspirational there!

Happy knitting, and I'll be back soon. I checked out some awesome and some so-so books from the library, and of course I've got to tell you all about them. Also, the Knitter's Review newsletter reminded me that I've got to start working on Christmas presents, so I've got an overly ambitious to do list in the works. And I can't wait to see what everyone else is cooking up, too!

You know what I love about lace?

2006-09-12T02:24:00.000-05:00

I love that moment when you realize what you're making will bear little resemblance to the thing hanging off of your needles. Here's what I'm working on right now.

Here's my progress on Print O' the Wave; it doesn't look like much. But in the next photo, it's all pinned out on the back of my rocking chair.

I love it. I had to alter the pattern a little bit, mostly because I'm worried that I'll run out of yarn. I bought a 2 oz. ball of Zephyr a couple of weeks ago, so I've only got a bit more than 600 yards. Eunny says that the stole, knit in laceweight, will take around 800 to 900 yards. Obviously, I don't have enough, so I took out one of the 16-stitch pattern repeats and will knit 6 fewer 12-row repeats, which leaves approximately 80% of the original pattern. I'm also using a US 5 instead of the recommended US 4, because for some reason, the only size needle I don't have between US 000 and US 15 is US 4. Plus, I just got a Knit Picks options needle in a 5, and I wanted to try those sharp points on some lace (and they rock). The upside of that is that the lace will block out closer to the original dimensions, but I'm not entirely sure what the effect will be on yarn consumption. Any more experienced lace knitters out there who could offer up some insight? My guess is that I'll run out; I'd be prepared to cut out a couple more repeats, because I don't think the chances of finding more yarn are good, unless I want a different dye lot on the border.

Eh, even if it gives me a heart attack in the end, it's pretty.

In other knitting news, I've almost finished that cardigan. I've got to add sleeves and buttons, and that's it. I'd show you a picture, but no matter how you drape a single color stockinette cardigan over a chair, it's kinda boring. It's a gift for my roommate, Heather, but I can't get her to model it right now (2am) because she's diagramming some Greek and memorizing some Hebrew vocabulary. Definitely not the moment to interrupt with wool.

And last but not least, I'm sorry to anyone whose comment I haven't gotten back to. That's on my list for tomorrow, especially because my blogless lace swap pal, Lindy, deserves more than the little thank you I've given her for her package. I think she's psychic, because her gift included, in addition to all manner of lace knitting stuff, a huge pile of cooking magazines, boxes of tea, and a bag with a picture of the Little Prince. I love this book so much that I actually have two copies: one in English, of course, and one in Italian, because I always saw it at the bookshop I frequented in Rome. Of course, I don't have it in the original French, because I don't speak or read French. If you haven't read it, I highly recommend it, if just for the illustration of a snake eating an elephant.

What I've Been Up To

2006-09-08T19:39:00.000-05:00

So, I've been able to get a lot of knitting done in the last month, since I still don't have a job :) I tell ya, it's good for something....

I promised photos of Birch, so I made Heather pose for one....

I love this shawl; I love the modern, geometric lines of the pattern, and the yarn (Zephyr) was awesome, although, of course, the color bled when I washed it.

And here's a photo with more detail of Birch, as well as two of my current WIPs.

I'm working on Eunny Jang's Print O' the Wave Stole in blue Zephyr (I told you the yarn is great). I had to alter the pattern a little bit, though, because I don't want to run out of yarn, as I don't have a giant cone of this one.... The other blue thing in there is a raglan cardigan I'm knitting as a present, from the free pattern at cosmicpluto knits!

And last, but not least, a pair of little socklets I made for Heather's cold, cold feet.

I used Artyarns Supermerino for these, so they're super thick and cozy for around-the-apartment wear. It was really nice yarn, and it was fun to figure out how I wanted to make the socklets.

So, the knitting's been fun. And, since I finally got the internet hooked up, I've been able to catch up on all of my blog reading :) What fun! But now, I'm off to do more knitting, and to watch cable, since we've got that now, too!

I'm Still Alive

2006-08-29T15:34:00.000-05:00

Hi, everybody! I don't have too terribly much time, but I thought I'd post a quick update. First off, I finished Birch, and I wear it all of the time. Of course, I don't have a photo, but I'll get one up here shortly. I do, however, have a picture of my niece modeling her hooded sweater at her birthday party (of course, I didn't get to go, since I was moving, but that's life). Here she is:

I'm glad that it fit, especially the hood. I was worried that it might be too small.

In other knitting news, I went to the Kentucky State Fair last week, to see sheep and knitting (and pigs and quilting, too). It was nice, although a lot of the entries were really simple. There was a basic baby's roll brim hat, and there was a garter stitch scarf. But, of course, there were some gorgeous arans and lacy sweaters and cabled baby booties. I think I'll enter some stuff next year. But honestly, compared to the Iowa State Fair, this one just didn't measure up. Of course, I'm biased, as I *love* the Iowa State Fair.

What else? Well, I still don't have the internet, so when I make it to a coffee shop or Panera's, I use the internet almost exclusively for job hunting. I've applied for about 10 jobs in the last three weeks, and of course I've heard back from nobody, and they don't have phone numbers you can call. I have a few more to apply for, and some temp jobs to apply for, but other than that, it's just a big waiting game.

And now, back to the job listings....

Done and... Not Done

2006-08-03T21:42:00.000-05:00

Moving is done! We ended up with a Budget rental truck, and driving that monstrosity across four states (as I was the only one insured to do so) was an adventure. So, moving is done, but unpacking and reorganizing my life is definitely not. Unfortunately, the internet is one thing that has yet to be set up, so I am depending on the kindness of coffeeshops that like to give out free wireless. Thanks, Java!

I got a lot of knitting done on Birch while waiting on hold, but I'm not finished yet. Maybe I'll work on that a bit tonight, as a break from unpacking. Or maybe I'll just unpack, so that I can enjoy an apartment in a finished state sooner :)

More later, when it's not nearly closing time!

I hate moving.

2006-07-29T17:38:00.000-05:00

(And by the way, I really can't believe it's been so long since I posted!)

Anyway, I'm getting all set for a big move to Louisville on Monday, and I hate moving. See, about a quarter of the population of Iowa City up and moves on one weekend a year, causing a shortage of moving trucks. Knowing this, and knowing that I would be moving halfway across the country on said weekend, I reserved a U-Haul almost a month in advance. About a week after that, I got an email saying that there is a high volume of reservations that weekend, and they would appreciate my patience and flexibility in terms of the location at which I would pick up a truck. But they assured me that they would make sure I got moved! So then I set up the whole move-out appointment with my landlord, etc., and got friends lined up to move stuff. And today, the big day I get to find out when I pick up a truck, arrives. And the time by which they told me I'd hear from someone comes and goes. So I call the company, and the only response I could get, after 20 minutes of being on hold? There's nothing. Absolutely no equipment *anywhere.* Of course, that's got to be an exaggeration, but nothing's budging, except the fact that they say I have to switch my reservation to a day after the original reservation. There's *nothing* they can do, and they'll call if something comes in a day early, blah blah blah.

Well, the only thing I could do was hang up and call my landlord. Who informed me that I can't move out Monday because that's when the new tenant's moving in.

So now I'm on hold again, when I should be cleaning my apartment. And I wouldn't be upset if this were an in town move, I'd just load up my brand-spankin'-new-to-me SUV and move all of our stuff somewhere, and find something to do about the futon. My dad's got a pickup, and he only lives 3 hours away, you know? But it's not across town, it's a 500 mile move across four states!

In positive news, just about everything is packed! And if the apartment weren't filled with boxes and I weren't waiting on hold, I could be cleaning.

_____

20 minutes later: They finally picked up, only to hang up on me. Seriously. Now I'll spend another 20 minutes on hold, I'm sure. So far, I've wasted an hour.

In other news, Birch is 80% done, and I think I'll work on that while I'm on hold.

Everybody, everybody!

2006-07-05T15:17:00.002-05:00

I had a nice holiday weekend; I went out of town and forgot that I had a cell phone/email and just relaxed. And knit!

I taught Heather's little sister how to knit this weekend, and also got a big chunk of mitten worked on. And I finished Ainsley's cardigan!

This is the first sweater-type thing I've actually finished, and it was a lot of fun. I used a little over two skeins of Cascade Sierra in color number 19, and size 7 Denise circulars/size 7 Clover DPNs. And, of course, this pattern.

I still have to block it and, you know, make sure it fits. My gauge was about half a stitch to big, but I think it'll be fine, as babies grow pretty quickly. I'm slightly concerned that the hood might not fit as long as the rest of the cardigan will, because my niece has a really big head for her age, but that's okay.

I hope you all had a great Fourth! I'm off to work on Birch now, after seeing some photos of a gorgeous one over at Sweet Georgia this morning.

I love 1am

2006-07-01T01:49:00.000-05:00

Why do I love 1am? Because you can watch the local Senior Center's programming on the public station here at one in the morning. At least on Friday/Saturday. I just listened to a saxophone quartet play Claire de Lune, and it was lovely. Although it'll take a lot to beat what was on earlier this month: a line dancing recital performed entirely by, and this is meant in a nice way, old ladies. It was fantastic, and I really just wanted to get up and dance with the television. I hope when I'm retired that there's a really awesome place for me to go and line dance and play in a wind ensemble and knit for The Preemie Project (they're one of the donation centers).

Speaking of knitting (as this is a knitting blog), I've been working away on Birch, and it's still a gorgeous shawl. Of course, it's not the best mindless movie knitting, since I kind of like to see that I'm really making the increases and decreases, so I pulled out Ainsley's cardigan. Here's a photo, and I apologize for the quality; it's difficult to photograph red in artificial light, you know?

Before yesterday, I was to the point in the pattern where I needed to put the sleeve stitches on holders, so I paused there for awhile. I've never made a sweater before, so yesterday I decided to go ahead and get the sleevey bit over with. I have problems casting onto the right needle in the middle of a row, and you just have to go back and pick up stitches later anyway, so for the underarm I used the provisional cast on that starts with a crocheted chain, and then kept working to the end of the body. This afternoon I seamed the hood and started a sleeve; the provisional cast on idea seems to have worked well.

And earlier this week, I decided to start some Squirrely Swedish Mittens (the pattern is free from Elliphantom Knits) that were inspired completely by mittens at Hello Yarn.

I love squirrels.

I've never done any colorwork more complicated than a stripe, so these are pretty exciting for me. I like learning new things, and for these mittens I had to learn to knit English style and subsequently learn to knit holding a different color in each hand. Then I got to learn how to strand while knitting, and then I learned how to make one of those nifty braids at the edges of the cuff.

One thing I find interesting: although it's not particularly clear from that picture, the single color ribbed cuff at the bottom is pretty uneven, yet the colorwork seems to be very even. Why does the part of the mitten I've got the most practice at look the worst?

And now, back to my knitting and the seniors' wind ensemble. (P.S.- I really love squirrels.)

Mmmm, silk and wool....

2006-06-25T00:22:00.000-05:00

So, I got a pound of Zephyr(!) over at eBay awhile back for a very good price; I linked to the seller's store, because I found her to be a good seller (and really fast shipper). But what to do with a pound of laceweight silk and wool? Well, I had a wrap pattern I was going to start, but I really wanted to make Birch. Unfortunately, I couldn't find the Kidsilk Haze stashed away for Birch, but I really really wanted to start it, so I started with the Zephyr. Here's the progress as of a couple of days ago... there's about twice that now.

Verdict on the yarn so far: it's gorgeous! I thought I would never be able to use a whole pound, but there'll be no problem with that :)

Verdict on the pattern so far: it's ridiculously easy. I memorized practially by reading through it. Of course, it's also beautiful and I can't wait to finish. I love the orientation of the lace motifs, which is what prevented me from simply knitting Kiri.

And now? I'm going to get back to my knitting.

Knitting? What's that?

2006-05-25T16:44:00.000-05:00

I promised a crafty update, and here it is.

You see, I've got lot a lot of projects lined up, and maybe even time to carry them out! Here's a handily bulleted list of stuff I want to do this summer. Maybe we'll check back at the end of the summer and see how I did....

• Jaywalkers: They were pictured in the last post, but I knew then that I'd have to frog them. I'm not getting gauge, and I think it might be because the Claudia Handpainted yarn is a little too thick for the pattern. The good news is that the green yarn in that same photo, from All Things Heather is both gorgeous and the right size for Jaywalkers.

• Pomatomus: So what to do with the other yarn? I'm planning to make some Pomatomus socks for Heather with the Claudia Handpainted ('cause I really doubt they'll fit me, and that green sock yarn was a "you finished two final papers in a day and a half present" for myself).

• Baby Cardigan: Libby was working on one of these at knitting night, and I decided to make one for little Ainsley (her birthday is in July, which means I've gotta start soon). I got some nice red yarn yesterday, so I'll try to start ASAP.

• Birch: I've got the yarn, we'll see when I get the pattern. I've already ordered the book, but the book's on backorder? Whatever it is, I've got one online store I'll not order from again....

• Washcloths: I thought I'd give some of these to my sister for her wedding. Of course, I'll feel cheap, but that's life. I'll buy some kitcheny thing, too, but that dress was expensive and I'm essentially unemployed.

• Other stuff: I don't have links for this stuff, but I've got a cardigan in the planning stages, yarn for mittens, ideas for felted bags, sewn handbags, sewn aprons, a sundress in a nice aqua cotton fabric, and all sorts of stuff to work on for the Preemie Project!

What to start first? I'm thinking that sweater for Ainsley.

In other news, I used to disguise my yarn as boxes underneath a foosball table. But as of this afternoon, the foosball table's gone! My cousin's husband drove a couple of hours to pick it up (it's gotta stay in the family and all that), and while it will be missed, it means there's tons of extra space in my apartment now! Of course, now I have to find another way to disguise the yarn... including the yarn that came in the mail today! More on that later, I promise....

I'm Alive!!!!

2006-05-22T23:39:00.000-05:00

Alright, so it's been awhile. I know! Every time I thought, "Golly, I should post something," something new would come up, and then I'd think, "Gee, how will I ever update with everything that's gone on?" and get discouraged and just not post.

So here I am, and there's no way I can fill you in on nearly two months of goings on, so I won't try. I was super busy with school and work and stuff, but I did manage to both graduate and clean my apartment in the last week and a half (thanks for the help, Heather). Here's evidence for, well, half of that statement.

Other than that, I've been reading for fun(!) and knitting! I finally got Knitting Rules and Mason-Dixon Knitting, and boy am I inspired. And today I read Garlic and Sapphires which was very interesting. So now I'm three books into my pile, which is at least 20 books deep right now, and growing.

I'll post about the knitting soon, but not now, because I've still got news to share. When Secret Pal 7 wrapped up, I got the most awesome reveal package in the world. The little box was packed with stuff, but the things that really made me want to pass out from happiness were three balls of Kidsilk Haze (Birch, here I come!) and a copy of One Skein, which I had been wanting to buy since it came out. Thanks, Secret Pal!

I'm really gonna try to update with knitting content tomorrow, and I think I'm finally gonna make it back to Knitting Night!

Hat!

2006-03-25T15:22:00.000-06:00

I finished my hat the night I started it, so I thought it was about time to put up a picture. Especially since I've worn it a few times already.

Of course, it's tough to take a picture of a hat you're wearing. Sorry. The color is more accurate in this picture, but still not exactly true on my monitor. Whatever.

Anyway, I'm bogged down in homework land, and I've got Secret Pal stuff to wrap up. Not much else is going on.

As a note, anyone who is thinking about knitting a lace shawl but doesn't think they have anywhere to wear one, they're excellent as really long scarves.

Have a great weekend!

Spring?

2006-03-21T21:42:00.000-06:00

It's the first day of spring, and in Iowa, that means snow? Check out Libby's post for some lovely shots of our spring snow. I figured, though, since winter's officially over, I might as well start knitting myself a stocking cap. If I finish tonight, it'll probably be cold enough tomorrow morning to wear it. Wanna see the progress?

I'm using some Manos del Uruguay wool that I picked up at Beads and Beyond when we had the knit in for The Preemie Project there. The green is an interesting color; if forced to describe it, I might call it an acid olive green (it's number 68). Unfortunately, it doesn't photograph well. However, I'm liking the stripes.

Speaking of that knit-out thing, I sewed my second bag weeks ago to donate as a raffle prize. It's big enough, and zipper/velcro free enough to be a knitting bag.

And as a bonus, I made a little notions bag. Here's an interior shot.

Other volunteers stepped up and filled this bag with yarn and notions. I don't know who won it, but I hope they like it!

And last but not least, the first day of spring means the one year blogiversary of Wool Windings. Tracy is not only an inspirational blogger, she's a prolific charity knitter and a wonderful woman. Happy blogiversary!

Life Altering Experience

2006-03-19T23:46:00.000-06:00

You may or may not know this about me, but I procrastinate like no other (that's how I get so much knitting done). One of the advantages of having high speed internet is that you can waste a lot of time at websites like Homestar and Google Video. One of the often unanticipated side effects of procrastination, though, is that you occasionally have a life altering experience.

Tonight while wasting time, I stumbled across this humble little 22 second video. My life will never be the same, and so I am sharing it with you. Maybe some of you who have more experience than I do at folding shirts won't be too terribly impressed, but by golly, this really works.

Enjoy!

Two FOs!

2006-03-19T00:07:00.000-06:00

Yeah, pictures of two finished objects! I'm excited. First off, here's my finished Shedir, with the remaining Rowan Calmer.

Yeah, that's, like, a third of the ball left. I knit this on US 3 Addi Turbos, and used US 3 Balene II dpn's. I didn't like the Balenes. I used the specified yarn, too, but I don't remember what color it is right now. I thought I might not have enough yarn (I only got one ball), so I eliminated two rounds of ribbing at the beginning. One to save yarn, and the other because I do a long tail cast on whenever possible. Unfortunately, there are decorative eyelets around the bottom because my m1-purls aren't up to snuff. I left them, though, 'cause I didn't know if I would get gauge, and figured I would end up ripping my first attempt out. Now I know not to assume such things. Here's the top of the hat, which I like very much.

And in even more exciting news, my apartment smells like wet wool! Adamas is blocking!

I finished the knitting last Tuesday, but Heather's dorm room wasn't big enough to block it, and I didn't have pins. I blocked it using some 67 cent craft wires I picked up in the fake flower section of Wal-Mart. And pins. Pinned out, it measures 84" long across the top and 37" from neck to point, but it'll probably get a little smaller when I pull it off tomorrow.

This was a fun shawl to knit, and the pattern was very well written. Thanks, Miriam!. I can definitely see myself knitting this again, especially because the finished product is so lovely.

And in response to my secret pal, I LOVE LACE! I'm done yelling from the rooftops now :) I will say, though, that lace is probably my favorite thing to knit. Although preemie hats for the Preemie Project are up there with it.

2006-03-15T17:44:00.002-06:00

Remind me not to brag about two posts in two days again, m'kay? Seriously, though, things have been ridiculously busy around here. Two whole weeks of taking midterms and giving midterms and trying to remain sane even though my apartment looked as if it had been hit by a tornado were not good. The apartment is still a mess, but at least it's spring break, so I'm not there to notice ;) Where am I? Visiting Heather in Louisville. The weather here is great; it's been in the 50's to 60's, and there was rain (not snow! not ice! rain!) and sun, too.

The trip has been relaxing, although this morning we had to jump my car battery. Here in the South (yes, to me this is the South), when your hood is up, it's like a magnet for every guy in a two mile radius. Of course, since Heather and I are quite capable of jumping a battery, as we've done it often enough, we politely turned down all offers of help. Until that young pup of a security guard on her campus insisted that he be allowed to ~~take over~~ help. See, we were using a jump pack thing that the security office makes available for people in need on the campus, and after carefully reading the directions, were confident that all was well. Well, this eager young man (think golden retriever... "I've got it, I've got it!") was sure that we had hooked it up wrong, and that the black cable needed to be on the battery instead of on a "non-moving metal part on the car." You know, to ground it? So he clips that onto the battery (not the best idea) and tells me to start 'er up. Well, Bonnie (my car, yes, she has a name) wasn't going for that, so he says we need a different jump pack. So he pulls the clamps off of the battery, at which point I can SEE ELECTRIC SPARKS arcing between the battery and the clamp, and hops in his Jeep to fetch us a new one. The new one was dead, so he quickly went to get a third.

Now, I know this is a long story, but I've really got to share... bear with me. He hooks up the third one (yes, the positive and negative ends, again, a bad idea) and says immediately to turn on the car. Um, sir? My battery has absolutely no charge. None. Three seconds is not going to give it a charge, no matter what you think. But I try, 'cause this guy wouldn't take no for an answer. So Bonnie doesn't start (who's surprised? not me), and the warning lights in the interior start flashing (you know, the oil light, the battery light, and the temperature light), so I say, maybe we should just give it a minute and I walk to the other side of the car. He says, "Well, would you mind if I try?" and hops in and starts leaning on the ignition. Now, the pack says to try the ignition for no longer than 10 seconds every two to three minutes, but he's just holding it down, pushing on the accelerator. After about forty-five seconds of this, the air smells strongly of gasoline, and the car, she starts. So Young Pup hops out and pulls the jump pack off of the battery, instead of leaving it on for a few mintues so that the battery has a bit of a charge, and says "Does your car often make a tone?" I was confused and said, sure, it makes lots of noises to GET HIM AWAY FROM THE CAR BEFORE HE BREAKS IT. So he hops into his Jeep and leaves us in the parking lot.

Now, I know enough about jumping cars to know that you have to run them for awhile so that the alternator can do it's job, so Heather and I hop in. And what do we hear? The most ominous noise my car has ever made (and really, she makes lots and lots of noises, not all of which are comforting). It's like the dinging noise that comes on when you leave your lights on or your keys in or something, except instead of being an off-and-on noise, it's this persistent "I'm really upset" alarm type noise. And it wasn't stopping. And I couldn't turn my car off, because I had no reason to believe there was enough power in the battery to start it again. So after five minutes of praying that my car was not ruined in a strange city, I turned Bonnie off. After about ten seconds, the noise stopped. I was a bit nervous about the chances that the car would even start again, but she did, and we took off to get lunch (and charge the battery up).

Really really long story short? Bonnie's fine, and I feel much more like a feminist than ever before. Seriously, I know how to jump a car battery without causing even short-term damage to a car, so just let me do it. Or read the directions. Is that too much to ask?

And back to knitting. I finshed my Adamas Shawl, but it's not blocked. Dorm rooms are, unsurprisingly, not fit for blocking shawls. So that'll be done when I get back to Iowa City this weekend. And I've started Shedir, from the Knitty Breast Cancer special issue. It's lovely, and fun to knit, too. I don't have pictures, though, as I forgot the cable that goes with my camera. You can see some great pictures of Shedir here, though. And why not read about the design process at Girl From Auntie? I only got one ball of Calmer (um, it's expensive), so there's a bit of adventure involved. If there's enough yarn, expect a picture soon. Because why would I do homework when there's anything interesting around to be knit?

Two Posts in Two Days

2006-02-26T19:09:00.000-06:00

aka "How to be a Better Blogger in One Easy Step

I'm back! I forgot to mention yesterday that my sissy is getting married this June, which means that for the first time ever I get to be in a wedding! And of course, I get to wear a pretty dress. If you click the link, it's the brown one, not the red one. I love it; now I just have to go buy it.

Of course, one of the first questions I'll have to ask is how long it takes them to alter things; before I found out about the wedding, I had decided to join Curves, and I've lost nearly 10 pounds since Valentine's Day. I'm not expecting any drastic changes before June, but hey, you never know. I'm really enjoying the atmosphere and the style of workout (circuit training).

No new knitting news, since I didn't get any yarn wound. I always end up with a tangle of laceweight, since I don't have a swift. I do, however, have plans to build one of this type. I've got my hands on some scrap wood taken from my friend's ceiling, so all I need now is a lazy susan, a handsaw, and some dowels. And, of course, room to use it. Crafty things are officially taking over my apartment. Maybe someday I'll show y'all a picture... maybe.

Hello Kitty is not Hokey

2006-02-25T21:51:00.000-06:00

I got a package from my Secret Pal yesterday with a Hello Kitty note and the question, "Is Hello Kitty Hokey?" I would say no; how about you?

Anyway, it was a great package. Check out the beautiful handpainted yarn!

There are also some squishy grey wristwarmers and a bowl full of Smarties! I love Smarties :) There are also some neon hair clips in there, which are perfect for holding back my hair, which isn't long enough to pull back, but is long enough to annoy me by falling in my face.

What else have I been up to? Well, I shifted my Olympic knitting to working more on my Adamas Shawl. Of course, I won't finish because I don't have a swift, and I've got to wind another hank. I did, however, finish up through the 12th of 14 pattern repeats, so I don't have too much left. Just a couple more days of work. (I gave up on the socks; it felt like the gauge was too tight for the yarn, and I just didn't like it.)

Speaking of Adamas, you've got to check out the designer, Miriam's new shawl. It's gorgeous, and while I've never done a knitted-on edge, this makes me want to try. Especially because this pattern was so well written, you know?

Also in that picture, you can see a corner of my new handbag, made with my new Sewing Machine. I went with a Sears Kenmore, as recommended by Consumer Reports via Lori who knits with us on Tuesdays.

Now I'm working on a knitting bag for the raffle at The Preemie Project's big Knit and Crochet Out next Saturday. Here's hoping it comes out looking good, right?

If I can get that yarn wound, I hope to be able to show you a finished shawl soon! Of course, I've got three midterms to take and two to give in the next couple of weeks, so I make no guarantees on a time frame.... I hope you all have a great weekend, and happy end of the Olympics to all of the Olympic knitters out there!

Knitting Olympics?

2006-02-15T12:33:00.000-06:00

Well, the Olympics have been on for awhile, and I'm still woefully close to the beginning. So little progress, in fact, that I don't even have a picture to post yet. I have, however, been ridiculously busy with other things, mainly school and work, so I know I've done the best I can so far. I hope to make a lot of progress later this week.

I'm technically "at work" right now, so I'm going to keep this short. I just wanted to let you all know that there is slight progress, and I'll post more later.

Finished Socks!

2006-02-08T00:15:00.000-06:00

Woo hoo! I managed to finish both socks, and make them match!

It was a necessity this weekend; I woke up on Saturday, and my apartment was in the 50º range. I needed wool socks, so I buckled down and finished the toe on the second sock.

After that, I washed some fabric that I bought to make a handbag out of, a lá the Jordy bag. The brown is for the outside, and I'm going to line it with the pink floral.

I got a good deal, since Joann's was having a sale on bottomweights and home decor fabrics. I really want to go browse some more, but as I don't have a functioning sewing machine, there's no use. Don't worry, though, I've got one I can borrow, but I am window shopping for inexpensive basic models. Are Brothers any good?

Anyway, after Saturday's adventures, I hung some photos pre-Super Bowl party. I'm too cheap to buy lots of 8x10 frames, though, so I settled for plastic page protectors, contact adhesive hooks, and yarn. Here's the view (sorry about the glare).

Unfortunately, it's difficult to get straight pictures with this method. Some of you know about my obsessive tendencies... this is an experiment in doing something imperfectly and leaving it. So far, I'm liking it; the real test is how long it lasts.

And continuing in my experiments in "imperfection," I made a hat for my friend and went with a random stripe pattern. Here's the progression of rounds:
• 9 green
• 7 tan
• 2 grey
• 1 tan
• 3 grey
• 3 blue
• 6 green
• 2 brown
• 3 grey
• 1 tan
• 15ish green
Although having typed that out, I'm feeling a compulsion to sit down and figure out if maybe there's a pattern of some sort. But I'll resist; I have enough to finish up tonight, and it's already after midnight!

But of course, I've got to show the hat. I got A to pose with it, since it was too big to look right on me.

It looks like the back might be a bit too big, but I didn't want it to be too tight. It was amazingly easy to figure out how to make; all of that practice making preemie hats for the Preemie Project must have helped. Speaking of preemie hats, I finished another during the Super Bowl. It's just plain white, though, so I won't add yet another picture to this post :)

Yay Secret Pal!

2006-02-02T23:02:00.000-06:00

The first package from my secret pal arrived on Sunday! It was very very exciting. Wanna see a picture?

On the left, we have lots of squishy wool from Knit Picks; there's some Palette for socks, and some Wool of the Andes. There's also some very pretty green hand-dyed wool. I've never been able to get a color that depth when hand-dying; color me impressed! On the right is an Erika Knight knitting book, Simple Knits with a Twist. It has some awesome projects in it, and is all about knitting with lots of different materials. And in the middle? Some funky bath confetti, citrusy face lotion, and some really awesome rose salve, which is almost exactly what I had imagined Turkish delight would be like (scroll down here to find some good Turkish delight links via notmartha). Plus, it made the ridiculously dry skin on my lips nice and soft! There's also a manicure set in a little pouch with the letters SP printed on it, which will probably become a little notions bag that I'll always be able to remember the origins of. There's also a little monogrammed notepad, which is moving onto my desk tomorrow. I'm always on the lookout for desk things.

Not pictured is some sugar, as I've already eaten it :D

What else is going on? I finished my sock....

And I started the other, but I haven't documented it yet. I've also been working on stuff for my own secret pal, so you won't get to see that for awhile. And other than that, I've been teaching and doing homework and running errands and whatnot.

I also found it: the pattern I'll be using for the Knitting Olympics. It's the River Rapids Socks pattern by Sockbug. I can't use my Claudia Handpainted sock yarn, so I'll be using up some Merino Style from my stash. How exciting! Stash yarn!

Anyway, that's all the news there is, so I'll post more when there's something new.

Meme and the Part-Sock

2006-01-26T19:53:00.000-06:00

Well, it seems like everyone's doing the Four Things meme, and while I haven't been tagged, I'm joining anyway.

Four Jobs You’ve Had In Your Life:

1. ESL Instructor
2. Information Specialist
3. Student Clerk in Echocardiography
4. Customer Service Associate at Walmart

Four Movies You Could Watch Over And Over:

1. Toy Story 2
2. Pride and Prejudice
3. The Return of the King
4. Sixteen Candles

Four Places You’ve Lived:

1. west side, Iowa City
2. Downtown Iowa City
3. Rome, Italy
4. Creston, IA

Four TV Shows You Love To Watch:

1. Everybody Loves Raymond
2. Mythbusters
3. What Not To Wear
4. Project Runway

Four Places You’ve Been On Vacation:

1. Colorado
2. California
3. New York
4. Scotland

Four Websites You Visit Daily:

1. Gmail
2. Cute Overload
3. Stuff On My Cat
4. any blog on my list that's updated

Four Of Your Favorite Foods:

1. Panchero's Chicken Burritos
2. Lasagne
3. Pasta with vegetables
4. Turkey sandwiches

Okay, now that that's out of the way, I've got a partial sock for you!

I'm using that Claudia Handpainted sock yarn from kpixie, and this pattern for ankle socks. I'm ready to do the short row toe on the first sock, and I've barely made a dent in the ball of yarn. I hope to finish this sock tonight, and maybe even start the next! I feel like I haven't finished anything in a long time, but I've started about five things, and I have a pile of yarn itching to get going, too. And I've got some yarn that would make a great hat and bootie set for The Preemie Project.

In other preemie news, check out the contest Jean over at The Scottish Lamb has set up! She's got a gorgeous woven basket ready to go out to someone who knits for the Preemie Project through the end of February. If I can focus long enough to make a teensy tiny preemie set, anyone can.

New Week, New Yarn

2006-01-23T23:52:00.000-06:00

Back in the swing of things, and I'm drowning in homework. But that doesn't mean I'm not going to take a blogging break! I didn't get to knit this weekend, as I had cuter things to attend to. My little niece is growing up so quickly! Here she is not caring about the animals at the zoo.

Of course, she's not quite 6 months old yet (close!), so she's allowed to not care about what her mommy is pointing at. I didn't get many shots of the animals, but if you're interested, Heather has some cute ones posted.

I didn't do anything "productive" this weekend, much to my continuing dismay. I have a big pile of homework next to a big pile of things to grade and a big pile of books to convert into lesson plans. And a giant pile of yarn that's getting bigger by the day. Today's addition? Five skeins of Claudia Hand Painted Sock Yarn, two in "Freesia" and three in "Stormy Days."

Gorgeous, isn't it? I think, based on the fact that I have two midterms the last week in February, that I might have to revise my Knitting Olympics project. I know I'll never get a cardigan done in 16 busy days, but a pair of socks is much more reasonable, and still a challenge as I've never knit a "real" heel, and because of the time constraint. Plus, that yarn is gorgeous. Now I just have to collect the appropriate needles and decide on a pattern. Any suggestions?

Preemie Project Hats

2006-01-20T00:51:00.000-06:00

I've spent the last couple of days finishing up some hats for The Preemie Project. I volunteered to make three white hats for 3-5 lb. preemies, but the first two I crocheted (LB Microspun) ended up being different sizes. After that, I switched to knitting, and knit three in Caron Simply Soft. They were the right size (yay!), so now I just have to do a load of laundry and get them all clean before I get them to Laura.

Other than that, I washed dishes today (all of them!) and got my teeth cleaned. I love getting my teeth cleaned, and I love free floss. The hygenist even said that I must have good brushing technique (really? I never would've guessed... seriously), and since it's bedtime, I can go evaluate whether or not I would agree.

Finished Moebius

2006-01-17T13:44:00.000-06:00

I got quite a bit of knitting done this weekend! First off, I finished my Moebius shawl (I made the executive decision not to thrum it, so this really is done).

I love how it turned out; the yarn, Fleece Artist Blue Face Leicester, is soft and squishy and everything wool should be. My only complaint is at myself; in my desire to finish, I decided to bind off without doing the last three purl rows (it's a wrap, you can make it how you want to, right?) as it seemed wide enough. Wearing it, though, I can't help but think that I shouldn't have done that. I don't care, though, because the colors are gorgeous. And I should have enough wool left to make myself a hat. Woo hoo!

I also knit a few rows on the Adamas shawl, and then cast on a sweater for my niece (finally!). Here's last night's progress:

It's the "Chunky Zip Up Cardigan" from Knitting for Two by Erika Knight. I'm using Knit Picks Sierra in Wild Rose. I really love this yarn for chunky patterns; it's smooth and soft. I'd like to have the sweater done before this weekend's "family vacation" (i.e., trip to the zoo and casino), but that's not an entirely reasonable goal, since it's the first week of classes.

Looking at other lofty goals, I signed up for the Harlot's 2006 Knitting Olympics. Crazy, I know. I've been promising Heather a cardigan for awhile. She gave me a scarf yesterday that she's been working on for awhile, and it's really soft and warm and I love it, so I decided that for the Olympics, I'd challenge myself to finish her cardigan in 16 days.

I'm going to use a pattern from the last Family Circle Easy Knitting. It's the blue and white one under "Powder Blue." Here's a close up of the cables.

I think it'll be fun, and I think I could potentially finish. I really want a challenge, though, so I set the bar pretty high. I'm hoping I can finish and not fail my classes, etc. We'll see.

In other news, I'd like to thank my secret pal for her comments! They made my day!

Moebius Beginning

2006-01-14T02:12:00.000-06:00

The tests are done; don't even get me started on the last one (I have to remind myself that peoples' eyes glaze over when a rant involves linguistics). I'm taking a break from the shawl, because I got my Denise Interchangeables in the mail. They're working perfectly with the Moebieus Shawl. It's really neat being able to just add length and take it away from the cord when I feel like it. Here's the yarn from my Moebius kit.

The colors aren't exactly true; the blue is a bit richer, and what looks like brown in the photo is actually a nice olive green. This big superskein (it's 410 yards) was just right for hugging when I was stressed out yesterday. I'm about halfway through the shawl, but I'll post a progress picture soon, as I don't know when it'll be finished. Hopefully soon, but school starts Tuesday (I can't believe it!), and I have lots to get done before then.

Adamas Shawl Progress

2006-01-11T13:09:00.000-06:00

Finished up another test this morning [in 72 hours: 3 exams, 37 pages written]; only one left. Of course, it's probably the one I'm least prepared for, so at least part of this day off, I'll be studying syntax.

But not all day, because I want to keep working on my Adamas Shawl. Here's the progress:

I was very excited to get to take the picture in natural light; all semester I was out of my apartment during daylight hours, but this spring I've got two afternoons a week without a thing to do. Well, I'm sure I'm supposed to be studying and grading things and whatnot, but, well, it sounds more like prime knitting time to me!

Anyway, I'm working this up in Knit Picks Shadow in Vineyard. It's a gorgeous deep heathered purple. I'm on the fourth pattern repeat of fourteen, but that only puts me at 10% done. Hopefully I can make some good progress today.

In other news, while taking breaks from my exams to, well, um, read knit blogs, I stumbled across Birch. Gorgeous! If I hadn't already ordered a Thrummed Moebius Kit after seeing the Harlot's post. And a set of Denise Interchangeable Needles. That one was a late Christmas present, though. But still, I'll have to wait and clear up a few projects before I seriously consider getting my hands on that pattern book.

Like the shawl in progress, which reminds me... I have knitting to do!

Secret Pal 7 Survey

2006-01-08T18:24:00.000-06:00

Hi, everyone! So, it's about six on Sunday night, and I woke up about an hour ago. My comprehensive exams (comps) started yesterday. I picked up my first exam yesterday at 11 in the morning, and it was due today at 11. They're take home/open book, mostly because the questions are not anything for which you can find the answer in a book. You get a set of data, and you have to do an analysis of it, and defend your analysis. I managed 15 pages for this one, and I feel pretty good about my answer. I know that at about 4am, I was starting to get less coherent, but I took a 3 hour nap before finishing, so I hope it makes sense.

I have today off, and the next test starts tomorrow at 11. I should be studying, but I had to find out about my Secret Pal, and now I'm going to post my survey answers. Read on if you find that kind of stuff interesting (I know I do...)

Secret Pal 7 Survey

1. Are you a yarn snob (do you prefer higher quality and/or natural fibers)? Do you avoid Red Heart and Lion Brand?
I'm a softness snob; I prefer natural fibers, but I don't like wool that's scratchy (like some Noro and Lopi), and I do like soft lower end acrylics, especially Caron Simply Soft. I have nothing against Lion Brand, and I love the colors in Landscapes, but I would say that I prefer real wool to Wool-Ease.

2. Do you spin? Crochet?
Clearly, I crochet ;) I'm starting to think, though, that I prefer knitting. I don't spin, but I'm not opposed to learning someday.

3. What do you use to store your needles/hooks in?
A big ole pile. I do own, um, two needle/hook organizers, but, well, I haven't actually put needles or hooks into them yet.

4. How long have you been knitting? Would you consider your skill level to be beginner, intermediate or advanced?
I've been knitting for six months, and I would say that I'm an intermediate knitter. I'm not afraid to tackle anything.

5. Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list?
Yes, I do indeed. Here's my Amazon Wish List.

6. What's your favorite scent? (for candles, bath products etc.)
Hmmm. I like cherry, and lilac, and vanilla. I don't like pachoulli very much, or coconut, but other than that, I'm pretty easygoing about scents.

7. Do you have a sweet tooth? Favorite candy?
I don't have a chocolate obsession, although I can't say no to chocolate/raspberry things. I like candy in general, but I guess I don't have a favorite candy.

8. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do?
I love baking, and cooking in general. I also really like photography, although I've never been able to get myself to make a scrapbook, much to the chagrin of my entire extended family. I also like embroidery, and woodworking, although with a one bedroom apartment, it's hard to do much of that. I have dreams of building my own swift.

9. What kind of music do you like? Can your computer/stereo play MP3s? (if your buddy wants to make you a CD)
I like all sorts of music, except some rap/hip-hop. I love Led Zeppelin, and Ben Folds, jazz, opera, pop, barbershop, classical, classic rock, Sousa marches, seriously, just about anything. My darling iBook can play anything of a format that iTunes can read (sorry, no Windows Media Audio).

10. What's your favorite color? Or--do you have a color family/season/palette you prefer? Any colors you just can't stand?
Oh, I don't have a favorite, I just love color. Chocolatey brown, bright red, calm blues, and greens are all wonderful. I like rich colors and jewel tones, and some pastels.

11. What is your family situation? Do you have any pets?
I am a single twentysomething with no pets except yarn. That's a pet, right?

12. Do you wear scarves, hats, mittens or ponchos?
I love scarves of all shapes and sizes, and mittens are one of my favorite cold weather accessories. I wear hats sometimes, and I've never actually owned a poncho, although I'm not opposed to them in principle.

13. What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with?
Hmmm.... I love Blue Sky Alpacas (I've used sportweight and cotton), and I've never disliked a yarn from Knit Picks. I also like Cascade 220.

14. What fibers do you absolutely *not* like?
Novelty yarn; it's just not my thing. And LB Homespun. I don't like to be a hater, but I hate using Homespun (although I like how it feels).

15. What is/are your current knitting obsession/s?
Lace.

16. What is/are your favorite item/s to knit?
I really enjoyed making lots of mittens for Christmas gifts. I like things with shaping, or fun lace patterns. Or quick little scarflets and wristwarmers.

17. What are you knitting right now?
Nothing (seriously, I've been pretending to study for my comps). Next up, though, is another pair of mittens for my mom, and after that, I don't know.

18. Do you like to receive handmade gifts?
YES! I love to see what other people make. Seriously, even if it's "just" a dishcloth, I'll treasure it. I don't get many handmade gifts from people, but I love them.

19. Do you prefer straight or circular needles?
Circulars. I have a bunch of Addi Turbos, and I just ordered a Denise Interchangeable kit.

20. Bamboo, aluminum, plastic?
Golly, I like them all. I like bamboo DPNs, 'cause they don't fall out as often. I like my Addis, although, Susan Bates aluminum needles are also nice and smooth. I also like how plastic needles flex a little and warm up.

21. Do you own a yarn winder and/or swift?
I own a winder, but no swift. For now, my knees and the hands of friends suffice.

22. How did you learn to knit?
I used the DVD that came in Target's Knit Kits last summer, and supplemented it with Knittinghelp.com.

23. How old is your oldest UFO?
Crocheted, I've got one that's 1 year old, knitting, um, two months.

24. What is your favorite animated character or a favorite animal/bird?
I don't have a favorite animated characher, but I do like sheep and squirrels and jellyfish (they travel in smacks).

25. What is your favorite holiday?
Thanksgiving. Food, friends, family, and no pressure to have gifts ready. Plus, it helps me focus on what I'm truly thankful for.

26. Is there anything that you collect?
Yarn? And books, I have pretty big collection of those. And pens. And junkmail (I always forget to shred it).

27. What knitting magazine subscriptions do you have?
None.

28. Any books, yarns, needles or patterns out there you are dying to get your hands on?
I saw this pattern the other day at Knit Picks, and it looks great. I like the books on my Amazon.com wishlist, but I'm pretty ignorant about patterns available online.

29. Are there any new techniques you'd like to learn?
Hmmm, I've knit socks toe-up, but I don't know how to do a turn a heel and whatnot. Someday I'd like to know that, and Fair Isle, too.

30. Are you a sock knitter? What are your foot measurements?
I've knit one pair of socks, but I don't really know what foot measurements are necessary. I'll just have a quick go at these: um, around the ball of my foot is 9", 10" around before the ankle bone, 10" at the ankle, 9.75" long. (My shoe size is 8.5-9, wide).

31. When is your birthday? (mm/dd)
June 22nd.

Thanks for reading, and I hope something was interesting!

2006 FO #2

2006-01-04T23:47:00.000-06:00

Hey, I finished another thing! Alright, I technically started them in 2005, but I'm calling them the second finished object of 2006.

I whipped these up out of Alpaca with a Twist Baby Twist. It's 100% baby alpaca, and I picked it up at Sophie's Fine Yarn Shop when I visited Louisville. I used US8s and just k4p1 for awhile, then sewed up the seam, leaving a thumb hole. They're absurdly soft, and will make me wonderfully warm when I'm at work. I still have one ball of this left, and no plans for what to make. I thought maybe a lacy scarf, but we'll see what happens.

New Year

2006-01-02T21:20:00.000-06:00

It's a new year? I never see it coming, but it always does. So I'm declaring 2006 the Year of Selfish Crafting... Sort Of. What I mean by this is that I'm finally going to make time to knit and crochet things for myself. Things that are larger than an iPod Cozy! The "Sort Of" is because most of my pending projects are, of course, for other people. So what am I planning on making this year? For myself, the Adamas Shawl and maybe a sweater. And a stocking cap and mittens? For others, I have some socks to finish up, a scarf and mittens set, and I have to work on some sweaters and blankies for my niece. I also plan on a couple of hat and bootie sets for The Preemie Project each month. And of course, I'll fill in this plan with lots of random little projects, I'm sure. But the point is, I'm at last not going to continually put off making things for myself in favor of making things for other people.

I started off the year by finishing my Panta. I used some leftover Cascade Quatro and a US8 Addi Turbo, and I really like how it worked up.

Then, I worked on Mom's birthday scarf. There's not much to show yet, but here's the lovely texture of a lot of single crochets.

In other news, I did some online shopping for the Crochetville Winter Wool Swap. It was very exciting; I love shopping for other people. I like to be able to pick some of my favorites and share them, but also to see new things and try to find things my partner will like. I actually like the sending part of swaps better than the receiving, but as this swap is all wool/alpaca, I am very excited to see what comes my way.

And now, I'm off to do some studying.

Wrapping Up

2005-12-30T01:07:00.000-06:00

Well, Christmas is over, and the gifts were a hit. My stepmom absolutely loved her bag, and all of the mittens were appreciated, too. Even my stepdad was excited about them, and he doesn't necessarily like the things I make. He leaves Monday for a month in Wisconsin, though, and so he was happy to get some super warm mittens he can wear. I even made them black, so that he couldn't complain that they were too bright.

Go Hawks! I used the pattern Gifted and Knit PIcks Sierra. I used the same for Daddy's mittens, although he got bright green.

I think he likes them; when we were heading to Grandma's on Christmas Eve, he started putting on some ski gloves, and I gently reminded him that he had new green mittens, so he put them on and wore them every time I saw him after that.

I've still got to work on Mom's hooded scarf/mitten set, but I got her The Chronicles of Narnia, so she wasn't left out or anything. Mom didn't used to read a lot, but now that my stepdad travels a lot for work (he's a construction worker), she has a lot more time alone, and has read just about anything I've left with her. I even got her to read Jane Austen last year! I think for her birthday, I'm going to get her a set of the Lord of the Rings.

I got a lot of very nice presents, including the first two seasons of Pete & Pete on DVD. Danny Tamberelli, one of the stars, complimented a scarf I made my sister. It's a long story, but the short version is that when my sister was studying in Florence, Italy, she was at a friend's apartment, and that friend's roommate's boyfriend was there, and it happened to be this actor. Erin didn't get to talk to him, because they were trying to keep it all on the down low, but she accidentally left a scarf I crocheted for her in the living room. When she went in to get it, he complimented it, and of course she had to call me. It totally blew my story for that day out of the water; I had only bumped into Roberto Benigni that day at the airport in Rome.

Sorry if this is all scattered; I've got a cold, and I'm starting to get confused. Anyway, I'll be out this weekend, but I'll want to procrastinate next week, so I should post a list of what I want to get done in 2006. I've decided it'll be the year that I finally start making big stuff for myself. Of course, I'll still be making lots for other people, and for The Preemie Project. Starting my selfish knitting trend, though, here's my Panta in progress.

I hope you all have a great weekend, and have fun ringing in the new year!

Progressing Nicely

2005-12-21T00:15:00.000-06:00

I'm back from my long weekend of relaxation, and, well, I kind of feel relaxed. I did have a lovely weekend; lots and lots of knitting with a couple of hours set aside to grade papers and calculate final grades.

I recall saying (typing?) that I would finish a scarf, a felted bag, and some wristwarmers. Well, I shuffled the schedule again, and made a pair of mittens for Sissy-poo and that felted bag for my stepmom. I'm putting that scarf on hold until next week ('cause it's not an urgent gift), and the wristwarmers have been shifted to January birthday gift. Where does that leave me? Three or four pairs of mittens left. For the first pair, I used Lamb's Pride Bulky, and all of the mittens will be made with Kate Gilbert's Gifted pattern. Here's an action shot (it's a bit snug on my hand, but my sister has very slender hands, so they should have just the right amount of ease).

I've got enought LP Bulky for another set of mittens, and the remaining mittens will be made with Knit PIcks Sierra, a bulky merino/alpaca blend. A glimpse of the wonderful colors is shown below, filling up this French Market Bag. I substituted Cascade Quatro and 220, and it worked wonderfully. It did take most of four days' knitting time, but it was neat to see how the pattern worked up, and how nicely the yarn felted.

Good luck to all of you holiday knitters, working furiously until the "deadline!"

Relief

2005-12-16T10:53:00.000-06:00

Ahhhh, I'm done with my finals. Yesterday was a challenge: my last paper was due at 8pm, and I didn't figure out what I was going to write about until, um, well, 2:30. And the only thing graded for the class is, um, this paper. And you see, I really had thought about it beforehand, but I was having problems with the topic I'd chosen, so I made a last minute switch. Also, I was done at 6:30. And this is why I procrastinate... it's worked for the last, oh, my whole life, so why change now?

Also, I finished up a Christmas Hat for The Preemie Project last night. Now I'm all ready for my weeklong post-finals nap. Wait, no, I don't have time. I still have to grade a bunch of final papers, and knit. Fortunately, I get to travel to Heather's family's house for a long weekend, and that will be relaxing. Her little sis is dancing in the Nutcracker as usual, and we've got tickets for tomorrow's show. Once I get off work, I have to go home and pack up some clothes and lots of yarn.

In the next few days, I will finish one scarf, a felted bag (I've decided to go with this pattern so that I don't have to worry about figuring out a design), and some wristwarmers. I'd also like to work on Mom's scarf, but we'll see. If I get all of that done, it only leaves mittens on the list for Christmas, and I can't start those unless the mailman delivers my Knit Picks yarn before I skip town (or if I stop by the LYS on my way out... it's almost on the way). Now that I think about it, if I get some yarn on the way out of town, I'd have enough in the KP shipment to make Mom a scarf and mitten set, for her birthday in January.

Well, then, that's a sudden change of plans, but it worked for me yesterday, so I'm sure it'll work today. You'll all find out next week ('cause seriously, I'm sleeping a lot this weekend).

Pictures!

2005-12-14T19:14:00.000-06:00

I promised pictures, so here they are! First of all, this is me with my poster at a poster session I participated in a couple of weeks ago.

It was a very exciting poster, let me tell you. It really was fun, though, to discuss my research with people who aren't classmates, because that's when you find out whether or not you can explain it coherently to someone without the background knowledge you have.

And next up, a Branching Out in Blue Sky Alpacas Sportweight. That yarn was wonderful to use, and it blocked really nicely. One more Christmas gift done!

I finished a 7-page paper this afternoon, and now I'm about to start my last paper! If I work for a couple of hours, I'll be able to take a study break for 10 cent wings. Of course, I already took a study break to bake a chocolate cake, and it smells delicious. Now I'm going to take it out of the oven, and happy knitting to you all!

Great News!

2005-12-14T10:06:00.000-06:00

So, I have to share: I found out yesterday that I get to teach another class in the spring! This is good news for lots of reasons. See, last year I was given a quarter time teaching appointment for this academic year, which means teaching one class in the fall and one in the spring, and earning less than half than a TA with a half time appointment, which is three courses over the academic year. I wasn't the happiest about that, but I was excited for the experience, plus I had a second job to minimally supplement my income. So when I got an email yesterday asking me if I wanted another class for the spring, not only did it mean that I'll have even more work experience, it meant that I'll double my income for the year, and I might even get a bigger scholarship.

I'm so amazingly blessed; this comes at a really good time for me, because both my mother and my sister are in pretty bad financial situations. Not only does this mean that I can help my family some, I'll also have some money when it's time to relocate next summer without running up a lot of debt, AND I'll have more money for yarn. And more yarn. And, for the more practical people in my audience, new contact lenses. (And don't worry, I'm not really going to buy that much yarn; I've already got a stash two sizes too big.) (But maybe I'll get some Lion & Lamb to make myself a Clapotis.) (Although I really want to make myself a Tubey. Any thoughts on the Cashmerino? I hear it pills pretty badly.)

Continuing the feeling blessed theme, I randomly got two more people to participate in my research, and turned in an 18 page paper on my findings yesterday. It was surprisingly quick to write, but I had to spend, like, two hours teaching myself statistics. I've still got two papers to go, but one is half finished and the other, well, um, I've kind of thought of what I'm going to write about. It's not due till tomorrow night. That's plenty of time.

And finally, I was fortunate enough to have time for a Revenge of the Sith break on Monday night, and I finished up that Branching Out during the film. It's been blocking overnight, and I'll post pictures as soon as I have time to procrastinate (i.e., you probably won't have to wait that long). Also, I swatched for the felted bag I'm "designing," and I bought a button for the scarflet I've got to finish up by Friday. What does that mean? This week's scheduled holiday knitting is done (and it's only Wednesday)! Proof that even when it's the last minute, I'd really rather not do my homework.

The good news about having that done, though, is that the rest of my study breaks this week are now set aside for finishing up at least one Christmas Hat for The Preemie Project. And for playing Minesweeper.

Anyway, I'm sorry this was so long, I'm just super excited. And I'll put up pictures soon! Hope you all have a great week!

Finals Week.

2005-12-09T10:33:00.000-06:00

Well, now that I've finally reached the last day of classes for the semester, it's time to start panicking about finals week. Which, in all honesty, I should have been doing for the last, oh, month, but I'm sure it'll work out. I only have three research papers to write, and nine essays to grade. And, of course, holiday knitting. And work. But I can't complain about work too much; it gives me a chance to update my blog!

Let's see, this week I've been working on another little scarflette, and it's almost done and ready to gift. I'm making this one out of Debbie Bliss Alpaca Silk, and it's pretty. Up next is a Branching Out in sportweight Blue Sky Alpaca. Also, I'm working on a design for a felted/embroidered bag, and I've ordered the yarn for a series of wonderful mittens a la Kate Gilbert. I decided on Knit Picks Sierra, which I've not tried before. Despite this, I'm sure I'll love it, because I've loved all of the yarn that's come my way from them. That seems like a manageable to do list, right? Right?

Don't worry, though, I've got it all mapped out on my calendar, and my mom doesn't care if her scarf is late. And if it'll be late, I'll just crochet up some dishcloths to tide her over in the meantime. Also, I've purchased a small quantity of gifts so that even if the knitting isn't done, there'll be stuff under the tree for everyone. And I've got to go burn some mix CDs, because I'm, like, the only person in my family who doesn't have a CD player in their car (mom, stepdad, dad, stepmom, and sister all have one, and my tape deck doesn't even work).

Best of luck to everyone on their knitting; mine will make an excellent study break for the next week, and I'm an expert at study breaks.

Holiday Knitting (and Stashing!)

2005-11-30T19:57:00.000-06:00

Well, here I am. Jennifer graciously postponed the Holiday Knitalong update, and I thought I'd take advantage of it to tell y'all what I've been up to.

Thanksgiving was wonderful; I got a whole week off from school and work, so I went to Louisville to visit Heather and, for the first time, actually cook a whole Thanksgiving dinner (sans turkey). Also, I went yarn shopping. I visited Knit Nook and Sophie's Fine Yarn Shop. Wow. Double wow. Both were great stores with friendly staff members and delicious yarn. If I could only go back to one, though, it'd be Sophie's. That store was awesome; it was almost like a yarn overload, plus they had all sorts of patterns, buttons, and knitting supplies. And everyone was just so nice. They even invited Heather to come to their knitting night for 20-30 somethings. Check it out if you're ever in Louisville, although it is kind of out of the way (but so worth it!).

So what did I buy? Yarn for Christmas gifts! I got some great colors of Cascade 220 for a felted bag for my stepmom, and some Debbie Bliss Alpaca Silk for a scarflet for a friend. I also managed to finish a scarflet for another good friend. Of course, I have no pictures, because I left the cable that connects my camera to my computer in Kentucky.

What else? I've got one mitten done, only three to go. And my dear mother, bless her, made a request last night. See, I was going to make her a nice lace scarf out of chocolately brown alpaca. Nice, pretty quick, but iffy as a good gift for her because of the care it requires. Well, last year I crocheted her a hooded scarf out of Wool-Ease Sportweight. That thing was massive, and it took quite a while. She told me that she loves it, but she thinks it's got too many holes. She wants another, "closer knit." So now I know I've got to change tactics, the hooded scarf will definitely be appreciated more than the lace. Fortunately, I got a big bag of KP Andean Silk in the mail on Monday; that just may become a giant hooded scarf.

So, that's one and a half more gifts down, and plenty of yarn purchased for the rest (as if I really needed more). And now, back to my regularly scheduled homework (only two and a half weeks left).

Another FO!

2005-11-19T15:20:00.000-06:00

I know, I can't believe it either. I attribute it to two things: Thanksgiving Break=a complete lack of desire on my part to do anything resembling homework, and knitted toys=fast projects. Of course, I will do some homework over break, since it's a whole week off, but that doesn't mean I have to start yet.

Anyway, here's Spherey (with limbs)!

Since I'm not the world's best sew-er on-er of limbs, some are at jaunty angles. I think it adds character :)

Also, Julie posted a meme awhile ago, tagging anyone who wanted tagged, and I thought it sounded fun. So, here's what's on my desktop:

If you click, it'll take you to a bigger version. That's because I don't know how readable the little plaque is in the small version; it says, "This may have been a stair turret." It was at what used to be a castle in St. Andrew's, Scotland, and it amused me endlessly at the time. I was there after having been in Rome for five and a half months, and in Rome, you look at some hole in the ground and are told, "That was the very first sewer built in Rome." I always wanted to ask, "How sure are you about these things?" and at least in Scotland, they were honest.

It may have been a stair turret. But maybe not.

Neckwarmer Haiku

2005-11-18T10:31:00.000-06:00

so cozy and warm
alpaca and cashmere wrap
necks in luxury

I always promise myself I'll post something short, and I managed it.

Aaaah, sweet relief!

2005-11-18T00:10:00.000-06:00

Woo hoo! Okay, so it took a lot more time than it should have, but I managed to get my presentation and handout finished! My presentation went fairly well; I got good feedback from my professor, and I'm feeling pretty positive about my chances of successfully completing the final project. One thing that confuses me, though, is the fact that I get so nervous presenting something in front of my class of eight people, all of whom I talk to regularly, and yet I never feel nervous when I'm teaching. I don't think I'll ever understand....

In other news, because I was so happy to have finished a major assignment, and because it's getting really cold and I couldn't find a warm scarf in my closet this morning, I knit myself a scarflette/collar thingy this evening!

It was semi-inspired by the Alpaca Warmer pattern at Knitpixie, but I can't find the pattern right now for linking. My other inspiration was Jennifer's awesome version with cables.

I started a warmer awhile back, but when I was reading blogs at work this morning, that photo reminded me that I never finished! So I decided to try something new for me, and just make a pattern myself. I knit this in garter stitch on the bias, which made a neat texture.

The yarn is Knit Picks Panache in Dusk, and I used US 11 needles, so it worked up super quickly. It was a fun project, because not only did I get to figure out knitting on the bias, but I got to learn how to make a buttonhole! There was no button on the inspiration, but I thought it would be handy.

I'm excited to have a new warm alpacay/cashmerey scarfy thing to wear now that we keep dipping below freezing! Of course, the downside to a fun pretty soft useful project is that now I have to add this to my list of gifts to make people for Christmas! The upside, of course, is that I have something nice and quick to make for people.

Hope you all have a great Friday! I'm planning on finishing up Spherey. And in response to a comment I got on my last post, the reason I manage to get all of this done is that I simply don't clean my apartment! I'm not sure it's a good idea, but I enjoy myself....

Christmas Gifts Abound

2005-11-15T19:16:00.000-06:00

Golly, I feel like I haven't posted in ages... probably because I haven't, really. School's gotten waaaaay to busy, but of course, I still make time to knit, since I don't actually enjoy homework (okay, I like the homework, just not the *doing* homework bit). Anyway, not this previous weekend but the one before that, I went to a conference in Ann Arbor, and of course, what else would I do with 16 hours in a Dodge Durango than knit? Here's eight hours worth of progress, and a glimpse of the Michigan Union.

Yes, I finally got around to trying my hand at socks. I'm using one of Knit Picks' free sock patterns, and it's super easy. The yarn is Sock Garden in Pansy. Since that picture was taken, I've worked about half of the ribbing up the ankle, and then I put in the heels, 'cause I wanted to see how they looked, and now I'm back to the ribbing. And because she knows I always tell people what I'm giving them for Christmas, these are a gift in the works for Heather. When I finish, I'll put up a new picture.

In the meantime, I've started on a cute little toy from Jess Hutchison's AWESOME booklet of knitted toys. I'm working on "Spherey," who is essentially a sphere with arms and legs. Except that right now, he doesn't have arms and legs....

I'm using Caron Simply Soft Brites, because I had some left over, but also because I prefer neon to pastel when it comes to babies. The arms and legs are going to be neon orange. The yarn's leftover from my Halloween legwarmer knitting adventure, photos of which will probably not be posted, as the 80's were a little bit scary.

And for anyone who likes Spherey, check out that booklet, seriously. There are some fantastic little toys in there, and the patterns are really well written.

In other news, I think I'm going to knit mittens for Daddy, my stepdad, and my sister's fiance for Christmas. I think my sister will get a OSW, and we'll see what I manage for Mom and my stepmom. The clock's ticking away, and I don't know how I'll make time to get everything done, especially when I think about schoolwork. There are only four weeks(!) left in the semester, not counting Thanksgiving Break, and tonight I've got a ton of papers to grade (the downside of teaching writing...) and I have to finish background reading so I can formulate a research project so that I can write an abstract of it by Thursday. Of course, I also have to make a handout and prepare a 20 minute presentation on said research... have I mentioned that I only have a vague idea of what I'll actually be doing my experiment on? Of course, I'm not panicking or anything; I would just rather make another Spherey arm, or, well, just about anything else.

Oh, yeah, and knit, mama! KNIT! is hosting a Holiday Countdown Knitalong! I'm going to join right now, and it'll be my first KAL! Hope all of you other holiday knitters think about joining; I can't wait to see what everyone else is up to!

Thank you, Secret Pal!

2005-11-01T23:44:00.000-06:00

I got my reveal package from Laura at Crochetville yesterday! There was tons of stuff packed into that box, so here's a picture....

I got all sorts of yarny goodies, some candles, and little pattern books, which have some great little knitting patterns in them. I'm really excited about the TLC Amore, and it's in such great colors! I might try to knit a little baby blanket with it, but we'll see. I might just go with scarves, because you can never have too many.... Thanks so much, Laura!

Yesterday was a huge mail day for me; in addition to my reveal package, I got these....

Yes, you see correctly; that's three sets of Addi Turbos (two size 3, one size 8) and a really cool pattern booklet! I got the needles on eBay from the seller woolaholic. Great prices and fast shipping, and the customer service was great. Now I can think about starting some socks, just in time for a very long drive to and from Michigan this weekend.

And that pattern booklet? It's Jess Hutch's book of unusual knit toys! I can't wait to try some of them, although I probably won't get around to it for while.

Golly, it's been so long since I've posted that I've got all sorts of things I'm leaving out. Later this week, I'll post about all of the delicious yarn I got two weekends ago in Des Moines.... Thanks for all of your comments!

Any suggestions for a title?

2005-10-15T13:25:00.000-05:00

Last night I crocheted up a square for a comfortghan while I watched Pride and Prejudice. It was very nice; I had promised myself that when I got my apartment clean, I could watch it. Of course, my apartment's not 100% clean, but I also didn't watch 100% of the movie, mostly because I was tired.

I don't have any pictures to share of the square right now, as I'm at work. It's pretty boring, although there are lot of people around because it's Family Weekend. The worst thing about working football Saturdays is that I don't get to watch the game, and we don't have a radio or anything, so I don't know what the score is. Fortunately, Mom and Dad both said they'd try to call and give me an update while I'm stuck here.

Now, for a photo. At the end of July, my sister had a baby girl, Ainsley, who was put into the NICU because she passed out. They did an MRI and saw some suspicious things in her brain, although everyone was very fuzzy about what was really going on. Here's a picture of Ainsley at the hospital:

Well, she's been doing quite a bit of growing, as infants are wont to do, and now she looks like this (thanks, Mom!):

Cute as a button! Now I've just got to make some baby sweaters. I'm waaaay behind. But don't worry, I've got a plan. My secret pal sent some great yarn in her last package, and I think I'll be putting some of it to good use soon!

**Edit** I forgot to mention that Ainsley went in for a checkup last week, and they think she's doing just fine! There's some fluid in her head that technically shouldn't be there, but she's not getting any worse, and they think her development is normal. She goes in again on Halloween, and maybe there'll be more information then.

Silly Online Quiz Post

2005-10-11T09:10:00.000-05:00

So, I don't normally post silly online quiz results. Mind you, that doesn't mean I don't take more than my fair share of online quizzes. I just don't often post the results. Today, I will break with that trend, and tell you which city some quiz thinks I should live in:

You Belong in Rome

You're a big city girl with a small town heart

Which is why you're attracted to the romance of Rome

Strolling down picture perfect streets, cappuccino in hand

And gorgeous Italian men - could life get any better?

What City Do You Belong in? Take This Quiz :-)

Find the Love of Your Life
(and More Love Quizzes) at Your New Romance.

Now, I don't think I've ever carried a capuccino around Rome, but I did live there for almost six months, and I loved it. I didn't, however, love living far away from the most important people in my life, and seriously, the bureaucracy in Italy is enough to make a person want to be an illegal immigrant, but I do miss Rome. Maybe someday, when I've got, you know, a real job, I can go back. For now, I'm stuck, bored, at the info booth.

In other news, I finished my project in the wee hours of the morning. I've had, oh, a week and a half to work on it, but I seem to be unable to do things not at the last minute. I did manage to write 2100 words in three hours, which is a plus, but of course, now I have to revise it and make sure that my argument is cogent. That, however, might take caffeine, in which case my coworker had better show up soon :)

Tonight is Tuesday Night Knitting with the ladies from the Preemie Project, and I'm looking forward to relaxing a bit. Of course, then I have to go home and clean my apartment, as the complex is being sprayed for bugs tomorrow, and I want to make sure the place is presentable. If I finish anything, though, I'll let you all know.

Quick Update

2005-10-09T20:24:00.000-05:00

So, I have a major tendency to procrastinate, but I've actually gotten quite a lot accomplished today. Of course, I've still got tons more to do, but I felt like taking a small break :)

Here's a photo of my most recent Preemie Project hat. I'm working on another similar to it, and then I'll try my hand at some booties, I think.

At any rate, I finally figured out what to do with my large pile of Microspun! It was going to become a shawl once upon a time, but that never panned out.... Anyway, up next is a scarf I finished for my Crochetville secret pal. It's going out in her reveal package this week, along with lots of other stuff.

It's a keyhole scarf in HDC, made with an I hook and Joann Sensations Angel Hair. It's the most-novely-esque yarn I've ever used, but it was surprisingly easy to work with. I made it during the first half of this weekend's football game, and just kind of winged it. The scarf was inspired by the Windy City Scarf in SNB, but I obviously converted it to crochet.

And now, back to homework, and Led Zeppelin.

I'm impressed

2005-10-07T10:18:00.000-05:00

So, my friend Sarah learned to knit last weekend, and she's working on her first ever project: a *cabled* scarf! It impressed the pants off of me, as they were completely even, and so were all of her stitches. I'd like to try Libby's Cabled Clutch pattern sometime, but we'll see how that turns out.

I'm excited by how many of my friends are learning to knit; it's nice to be able to share my crafty passion with other people! I even got Heather to pick up some needles earlier this year! Although after the great afghans she's crocheted, I'm not surprised she took to knitting so quickly as well.

In other news, I started a new crocheted preemie hat last night, based on this hat pattern suggested on the Preemie Project mailing list. I should get it finished this afternoon, at which point I'll post a picture. I'm using white Microspun, because I've got a ton of it, and I'm trying to think of a way to incorporate some bright colors. Maybe a pom-pom? But then I'd have to use a different type of yarn for the pom-pom, because I don't think Microspun's unravely nature would work out for that.

Wow, it's really an update!

2005-10-04T21:20:00.000-05:00

I can't believe it's been almost three weeks since I've updated. Sorry! Non-crafty life caught up with me (thanks a lot, school), and my best friend/long time roommate Heather had a week off from school to come back for a visit! It was a nice week, although I procrastinated A LOT! Of course, that means I have fininshed objects to show everyone, and it also means that I'm playing catchup and am trying not to do things like knit instead of doing homework and washing dishes. Anyway, back to the FOs!

Here's Branching Out:

I used size 8 Addi Turbos and maybe half a hank of Knit Picks Gossamer in Caribbean. I don't remember how many pattern repeats I did, but it's relatively short, since I wanted it to be more of a dressy scarf than a warmth scarf.

Of course, it's blocking in the picture, so it's not quite that stretched out off the pins. The edges aren't straight, but that's on purpose. I like it, and now I'm working on more lace.

I also finished a One Skein Wonder for Hannah, just in time for her birthday. Here's a pic:

I made it with size 8 Addi Turbos and size 5 Susan Bates circulars, and thanks to the lace, I think I've been able to tighten up my purls a bit and loosen up my knits, so it's a bit more even than Heather's. I didn't get the sleeves perfectly even, but that makes it unique, right?

And now, the homework needs finished and the dishes need washed. And yes, Heather, I typed that just to drive you nuts. Because you really need driven nuts, right? **insert evil laughter**

Thanks, Secret Pal!

2005-09-15T17:38:00.000-05:00

Wow. Wow! I totally forgot my Secret Pal said my package should get here today. So I struggle off of the bus, backpack around one elbow (really, it's, um, comfortable that way), folders and notebooks that wouldn't fit in the pack in the crook of my other elbow, talking on the phone with my sis. Then I managed to pull my keys out of my pocket with my left hand (which is unheard of for me, I've got lots of wacky idiosyncrasies), got my mail, and started up the stairs. And then I remembered, and there it was, waiting outside my door! And now, a picture.

How lucky am I? My secret pal thinks she "may have gone overboard," well, I'd say so, the box wanted to explode as I was opening it! I'm just giddy with excitement. And I got really great yarn, too!

Well, it wasn't all yarn. I got an awesome hook roll, shown on the left. It's toile! And it's beautiful. I can't wait to get organized and get stuff in there. Then there's some really neat Classic Elite Flash, it's the purple/fuschia marled cotton. It looks just like the Lorna's Laces colorway Laura was knitting socks out of the other day. Above that, you'll see some "Cashmere Luxury Chunky" in three warm colors. I don't know what it'll become, but it's so deliciously soft that I know I'll use it soon.

There's also some peach Red Heart LusterSheen, which I've never seen before; it's really soft, and I've recently gotten into working with lighter weight yarns. There's also some Bernat Cottontots, which will make some nice spring hats/blankies for The Preemie Project. There's some Fun Fur, which I've never worked with before. It's a lovely silvery grey color, and I'm thinking about making a scarf with it. And last, but certainly not least, five balls of Bernat Love Bug cotton in lavendar. Now, I've never seen this yarn, but it's exactly what I've been looking for to make a baby sweater out of for my niece. And with that much, I'm sure there'll be enough!

I also got a lovely note from my Secret Pal, who is worried about the package's delay. Well, don't worry! I'm just so happy to be participating, and I completely understand that life gets in the way sometimes. I just can't get over what a box of yarn that was! And I know I've never mentioned this, but I love toile. Here's a close up:

It has sheep! Toile with sheep, what a present! Thanks again, Secret Pal!

Lacing Along

2005-09-14T21:35:00.000-05:00

Hmmm, so I was going to talk about lace first, but I just, well, sniped an eBay auction. And what makes it bad is that I hate it when people do that. Oh, well, I needed to get a Christmas present before everyone starts their major shopping, and eBay was as good as anything else.

In other news, I'm working on the Knitty Branching Out Scarf. I bought some Knit Picks Gossamer when it was introduced because the colors were lovely. I don't know why I got it, because I didn't have anything to make with it, and at the point probably never would have considered knitting lace. At any rate, I decided to try something new, and here's my progress:

It's about 15" long right now, and I'm going for about 48" so that it can be worn as an indoor accessory. The yarn is really nice; it's squishy, and I love the stripe-like effect. I put in a lifeline a couple of rows back, because I was frustrated by my inability to fix a mistake for the second time. It's not the fault of the yarn or the pattern, I just don't have the mad knitting skills to fix all of my mistakes yet. Fortunately, I don't really care. It makes it unique, right?

I sent off the scarf swap scarf today; I'll post a picture once it's reached it's destination. My goal this weekend is to finish the One Skein Wonder for Hannah, since I'm supposed to see her next Monday. And, of course, I need to finish some stuff up for my second package to my secret pal. I've got a big list of things I'm considering, but I've got to narrow it down. Of course, I have to order some yarn for her reveal package, too, so that it's here in time for me to send it out.

Does anyone know of a nice, inexpensive alternative to Kid Silk Haze? Or is there really no other way to go?

Before I go, I had lots of fun last night knitting with Laura of The Preemie Project, Libby, and Mandy at a coffee shop (I had Earl Grey tea). I can't wait to meet up with them again; it's really nice to get out and ignore my homework with other people for awhile. Speaking of ignoring homework, I've been doing that for far too long today, so I'd better get some work done. Once I finish this lace repeat....

Lots of Stuff Today

2005-09-09T23:07:00.000-05:00

Eat your heart out, Martha.

Do you ever have days where you fee like a Super Woman? I had one today. I woke up shortly after the sun did, ate a hot breakfast (unusual for me), went to work for five hours, came home, rolled out pastry that I pre-made last night, made a delicious savory pie filling (cheese, potatoes, onions), finished a hat for the Preemie Project, sent out an RAOK and Heather's One Skein Wonder, went back downtown to donate blood, came back home, baked 24 mini-pies, went to a potluck, and then came home and started a scarf for a swap. And I'm not even tired.

I essentially owe my sucess to Nigella. Her book How to be a Domestic Goddess really made me feel like a successful domestic goddess. Especially because I came home from the potluck with empty plates.

Enough about food, here's some yarn.

That's (some) of the yarn I got in the mail today for the Scarf Swap over at Crochetville. It's delicious. And I'm not telling what it is till my partner gets her scarf :) We'll just say that I can't stop petting it. And wanting to keep it for myself, which tells me that I found a good yarn.

And how about some hats?

I adapted Yarncat's Amelia hat to a preemie size, and unlike many crocheted hats, it's really stretchy. I made a (full size) one for myself last fall, and I really liked it.

And that's a pumpkin hat for the Preemie Project. I don't remember what pattern I got the series of decreases from, but I just cast on some multiple of 8 and went around for awhile until it was a few inches tall, and then decreased across 8(?) rows, and finished with green i-cord.

And now, the finished One Skein Wonder.

Front

and Back. I just barely remembered to take photos before I mailed it. (While I felt like Super Woman, it was still a rather hectic day.)

I've got more gorgeous yarn pics to share, but that'll wait, I've taken up enough of your bandwidth already.

It's Got Sleeves!

2005-09-05T23:21:00.000-05:00

Or at least, as much of a sleeve as you get on a One Skein Wonder.

Now all I have to do is figure out how to pick up stitches so that I can do the neckline. This has been a fun little project, and I learned how to do raglan shaping. While I've got sleeves, I have to admit that I didn't seam them. Rather, I figured out how to make the sleeves in the round, and magic looped them, because who really wants a seam on such a delicate little garment? Admittedly, I've still got a few stitches that I should sew together, but the tiniest little seam shouldn't be an issue.

And now, to finish my homework. I'm not a very dedicated student; any time it comes down to homework vs. crocheting/knitting, I choose the yarn. Of course, the homework is due tomorrow, and the knitting isn't, so maybe that wasn't the best decision, but I've only got a very little bit of school stuff left that's got to be done tonight.

One Skein Wonder in Progress

2005-09-04T17:20:00.000-05:00

So, after feeling a bit of stash building remorse over that cotton I got on sale, I decided I should use it as fast as possible. Because then the purchase would be justified, right? Fortunately, there's just enough in a hank for a One Skein Wonder, so I'll be making some of those. Here's an in progress photo of the first, for Heather 'cause it's blue.

Next up, one in green for Heather's sister, the ballerina, whose kitty is dying, and whose two older sisters are now both out of the state. I'm hoping to have it done soon, and may even (gasp) start it before the blue one is completely finished.

We'll see how quickly it gets done, though, because one of my classmates has offered to pay, yes, pay me to crochet her a fall shawl. I'm working up some swatches so that she can pick out a stitch pattern, and I'm going to show her some yarn to pick from. Once I know the yarn and stitch, I've got to come up with how much to charge, which will be the hard part. I don't want to devalue my work, but I also know that there's only so much people will pay for stuff.

Unless, apparently, you're me. I felt a bit ashamed the other day as I filled out Crochet Me's Reader Survey. One of the questions asked how much you'd spent on yarn in the last 12 months. Now, I'm a college student, so I really shouldn't be spending that much on yarn, right? That's what I thought until I added it all up and realized it placed me in the highest category *blush.* I felt a bit better once I thought of all of the things I've made, and that one of my friends has spent more than that amount on comic books in the last nine months, but still. I guess that's what induced the OSW frenzy. Plus, they're cute. And it meant I got to buy a new circular knitting needle (size 5). Although I guess that's a bit counterintuitive.

And now, dear readers, I have to go gussy myself up for a wedding reception. The wedding was this morning, at 6:30 am. Don't worry, I took a nap. Instead of doing my homework. Or cleaning my apartment. C'est la vie.

Aaah, Football

2005-09-03T13:56:00.000-05:00

I love the first game of the season; it's almost the fourth quarter, and we're leading 49-0 (Go Hawks!). We'll see how it ends, as the Hawks have a tendency to screw things up in the last quarter. In other news, Kinnick is lovely after it's facelift. The only disappointment today is that this is the first home game in five years I haven't been at. After four years in the HMB, I feel funny not being there. And not waking up at 5:45 this morning to get to the stadium. And not spending over 20 hours a week in rehearsal. As a side note, if you go to the band's website and refresh to see all of the pictures, I'm just to the left of Herky in the picture of Herky (the mascot) in the stands with band members, and my best friend Heather is the girl with a bass drum in one of the pictures.

I wish I'd gotten season tickets, but the Home Schedule leaves a lot to be desired. I didn't really want to pay $130 to watch us play Northern Iowa, Ball State, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, and Minnesota. I've got enough great football memories. Winning the Alamo Bowl (Nade Kaeding attempted to conduct In Heaven There is No Beer), clinching the Big 10 Championship at Minnesota and watching the fans rip out another team's goalpost (they're idiots... you can't get a goalpost out of revolving doors), beating Michigan, beating Michigan, beating ISU, beating ISU at home, and, of course, The Catch. For non-Iowa fans, check out number four at the Top 100 Finishes, 1970-present. The Capital One bowl end is an indelible memory, and it was a fantastic way to finish my career in the HMB.

We're at 56-0 right now. I hope it holds. I hope that this year, the Hawks get to go to the Rose Bowl. I'll be sad to not get to go with them, but you've gotta move on.

Enough about football. This afternoon, I'm hoping to fix up the pumpkin hat, and I've swatched for a One Skein Wonder. Yes, I've decided what to do with that cotton I got on sale; I've got a ballerina friend who could use some cheering up, and that pattern always makes me think of willowy-ballerina-types. Now I've just got see if I can get any closer to gauge without venturing out into the football traffic for more needles, as my knitting needle collection is woefully bare, especially when compared with my crochet hook collection.

School Takes Over

2005-09-02T00:54:00.000-05:00

Gah! I always forget how busy I am during the semester until the next one rolls around. And this semester, I even have fewer classes than I've ever had before! Fortunately, they're all interesting, it's just a lot of work. Yesterday I worked on this hat as stress relief:

This is supposed to be a pumpkin hat for The Preemie Project. Of course, I forgot to switch to a different color for the stem, oops, so I'll have to rip back and fix it. Of course, I've never ripped back anything knitted in the round with decreases. I'll probably just go back to a row before the decreases so that I know where I'm at.

I am very excited that I learned a new technique while working on this hat. I had tried DPN's before, and they worked alright, but not fantastically. So this time, I went with Magic Loop Knitting. I used the video over at KnittingHelp.com, since the other instructions I tried to use left me with a tangled mess. It worked really well, and I didn't get frustrated at all (after the first attempt). Now I'll have to go check out the videos for changing colors while knitting, so that I can put a stem on the hat.

I also ordered some yarn for the Winter Scarf Swap over at Crochetville. My swap partner is from up north, which rocks, because I love making warm, squishy scarves. I'm not going to reveal too much, because I would like the scarf to be a semi-secret, I'll post some close ups when I get the yarn. I can't wait!

I also ordered some sale Blue Sky Alpacas Cotton yarn. I've never used it before, but I've heard good things about Knit Pixie, and I had a coupon. Can't go wrong with a coupon and sale yarn, right? I don't like to buy yarn without having a project in mind, but I've got to admit I don't really know what I'm going to do with this. I'm thinking some spring preemie caps, but cotton's not too stretchy. Maybe a scarf or wrap for myself? It seems like I always intend to make myself a wrap or a shawl, and it never happens, but who knows?

Preemie Project Update and a Cozy

2005-08-29T00:56:00.000-05:00

Two things today! First off, I got to meet Laura of The Preemie Project, as well as Libby, Debbie, MJ, Lin, and Linda, who were all extremely nice. I also got to see and touch all of the beautiful things the volunteers sent in; everything was so beautiful! I can't wait to finish more hats, booties, and blankies for the next donation.

Then, this evening, I came back and worked up Amy's Powerbook Cozy. I tested the pattern for her, and was pleased to see that it fits an iBook comfortably, too. Here's a photo (the colors blend better in person):

I think it turned out really well, and it's going to be a gift for Heather. Her new iBook needs some lovin'.

This was the first time I've tested a pattern, and it was a neat experience. The pattern was well written and easy to follow. I don't know when it'll be available for purchase, but it's a great pattern. Keep checking Amy's blog if you're interested.

Preemie Project Blanket #1

2005-08-23T21:35:00.000-05:00

Here it is... my almost complete first preemie blanket for The Preemie Project:

Of course, I ran out of the reddish/coral color halfway around the border. Don't worry, I've got another skein in a bag somewhere, I think. I've already got the colors planned for my next blankie, although I don't know if it'll be done by this weekend. I might do some hats, though.

Other than that, I just have to do homework and write a lesson plan tonight. And find the rest of that yarn....

Phew, first day of school over

2005-08-23T01:11:00.000-05:00

Wow, what a long day! Normally I really look forward to the first day of classes for the semester, but today was extremely nerve wracking, as it was my first day of teaching as well as the first day that I took a really really upper level course (I know, very scientific sounding). The class I taught went pretty well, although as usual some of my students are older than I am. I don't tell them how old I am, of course, because that would be really awkward for me, but I can still tell, just as I'm sure they can. One student actually asked if I was a grad student or an undergrad.

I also got a lecture from my advisor on why I should drop my elective class (three classes is apparently too much). I think my favorite comment was, "Well, who told you to take this class? Who's your advisor?" "Um, you are." "Oh, I must've been sleeping through that." And then she introduced me to the professor who's teaching the class (who I already know), and said (I paraphrase), "Oh, this is Megan, she's in your class. She's a great student, won this departmental award, in the 5-year program, blah blah blah, and I think she should drop your class." It was a strange situation. And the weirdest thing is that this course will probably be one of the easiest I ever take, because the prof's pretty easy-going and there's only one 12-20 page paper due at the end. As it is, I'm not going to drop it, because I think it'll be interesting, and if I do, I don't qualify for work-study and would lose my second job and not be able to pay for yarn! And that would be the biggest tragedy of all.

In yarn news, I joined The Preemie Project last night. Tonight instead of doing the dishes, I started a preemie afghan. I hope to get it done, as well as another little afghan, and some hats, before this weekend. I'll post a picture of the first afghan tomorrow, as it should be finished then. Thanks to all of the members of The Preemie Project for making me feel extremely welcome; I'm really looking forward to this!

And now, it's way past my bedtime. At least I get to sleep in tomorrow... today.

Crochet Content (at last!)

2005-08-21T18:06:00.000-05:00

Amazing, but true, I've finished something. And within an hour of starting it, too!

After work today, my brain was mushy feeling, so I decided to re-engage it by crocheting. I whipped up an iPod mini Cozy using Knit Picks Andean Silk Twist in Sunset. When I saw the color online (and even in the ball), the darker brownish gold seemed like it didn't fit at all, but once you work the yarn up, it's lovely. Here's the pic:

I just crocheted a rectangle in half-double crochets, and before it was the height I wanted it, I sewed up my seams and joined so that I could do a row of hdc's in the round, which I topped with one round of hdc's alternating front loop/back loop only (a la Yarncat's Amelia Flapper Hat. Then I braided three strands of the Andean Silk in Bluebell, tied the ends into tassels, and wove the strip of yarn through the "ribs" of the alternating loop hdc's. Then I tied a bow, 'cause I'm dorky like that. The ribbing makes the cozy tighten around the top of the iPod mini, and the braided yarn makes sure it won't be falling off.

And now, of course, I'm all set for school to start tomorrow. Except that I still have to write lesson plans for the next couple of weeks and find a textbook for one of the classes I'm taking.

Aha! Moment

2005-08-20T20:11:00.000-05:00

So, not that this is relevant to anything, but I had an aha! moment with knitting earlier today. I don't know if any of you knit, but there's this thing called the Provisional Cast-On. All of the directions I saw for it looked hopelessly obscure, until I saw this: Provisional Crochet Cast-On. You just throw the word crochet in, and it makes sense.

Anyway, sorry about posting lots of little things, I just didn't want to forget this one. Thanks crochet!

A Haircut, and a Photo of Me

2005-08-20T18:35:00.000-05:00

So today I got a haircut, and also a request for a photo of it. As there was some uncommonly lovely indirect natural light in my bedroom, I thought I'd best take some photos and see if one in 65 could be it... the photo I could post. I came up with this:

Got it cut at Great Clips, and I had a coupon, so I saved even more money. I even managed to overcome my inability to make small talk with a hair stylist, and only clammed up when she pulled out the blow dryer. I'm proud of myself, because normally when getting a haircut I talk for like, thirty seconds, and sit there in silence, unable to chat. I even used Heather's trick of asking how long she's been cutting hair (licensed in '83, the year I was born).

For those who don't know of this bizarre twist in my personality, while I am rather chatty and have no problem making small talk with just about anyone I encounter, I cannot make small talk with hair stylists. Seriously, this problem is essentially limited to hair stylists, and I don't know why. Unless I know them outside of the salon-type-world, I sit there in silence while they cut my hair.

To commemorate my continuing lack of finished objects (except some stuff for my Secret Pal which cannot be discussed at this time), I ordered more yarn. But not all of it's for me! Anyway, I still ordered lots for me, without any indication that I'm going to be finishing anything anytime soon.

Now for dinner, maybe Panchero's. If there's one near you, I recommend it wholeheartedly. Founded in the city I live in, this is one restaurant that has shaped my college experience. Seriously. (The other is in Rome, and I'm sure it has no website. If you're planning on going to Rome, take the 75 bus to Fratelli Bonnet, and eat at Pizzeria da Gino, as it is also most highly recommended by me.)

And after dinner? I might [GASP] crochet a little. While it's probably not going to be done in time, I'm going to try to finish that capelet before I have to go to a wedding next weekend. I've, um, swatched. That's it.

Book? No book? I don't know.

2005-08-19T19:34:00.000-05:00

So, when I checked my email about half an hour ago, I was ecstatic. I don't know about the rest of you, but sometimes I'll pre-order things at Amazon.com, and not remember (other than Harry Potter), and then I get an email telling me my order has shipped, and it's like a surprise birthday party or something! I can't wait to get the book I ordered, Wrap Style. So I clicked on delivery estimate, and it said October 4th! What?! That's right. So what did I do? I fired off an irritated email to Amazon's customer service, of course.

And right after that, I went over to the book's page, which I should have done before the email, I know. And on that page, it appears that the book isn't released until Sept. 28 (remember, I forget when these things are coming out). So now I've made a fool of myself, although it's irritating that they sent an email saying my package was shipped if it hasn't been. Or maybe that date is wrong? Anyway, Amazon.com, I heartily apologize if I've been foolish. Hopefully they're courteous when they reply so that I can apologize meekly.

Anyone else pre-order this and get a delivery notification? 'Cause now, I'm thoroughly confused.

UPDATE 08/20: Amazon emailed me back and said that it really did ship (so it's released? The item page still says no), and that I should have it by August 26th. I tracked the package through their site, and it says my package is currently in Ohio, and on its way here, but the delivery estimate is still Oct. 4th. We'll see what happens. I remain Thoroughly Confused.

No crochet news, but a post nonetheless

2005-08-18T22:46:00.000-05:00

Anyone else really like the word nonetheless? I like the runtogetherness of it. It feels daring, even though it's not.

Anyway, as the title states, I've really got no fibery news, but I've been feeling the overwhelming desire to post something. I just don't know what. Today was a nice day; meetings in the morning, break for lunch and part of the afternoon, followed up by a few interviews. Much more relaxed than yesterday: listen to a series of 10 minute lectures, get lunch, listen to more lectures, go type in a cold, dark box. Seriously, I'm a quick typer (80ish WPM, 99% accuracy), but I was so cold that I continuously made typos and felt as if my fingers were large frozen bratwursts.

Tomorrow I just have to go work at the info booth in the morning, and then in the afternoon I'm free. To clean my apartment and write up lesson plans so that I don't completely embarrass myself when I walk into the first class I'll be paid to teach on Monday. Of course, the likelihood that I'll embarrass myself anyway is pretty high. Oh, well.

Highlight of my day yesterday was purchasing How to be a Domestic Goddess while browsing the bookstore. I wasn't going to buy it there, as I knew it would be cheaper on Amazon, but then I discovered that I did indeed have a textbook to buy, so I may as well buy another book. Go ahead, read the textbook's excerpt at Amazon.com. Anyone else love acronyms?

I like that word, too (acronym). Much better than papasan. It took me the longest time to remember what the word for those silly bowl-like chairs that are so easy to break were called, and when I could remember, the word reminded me so much of Papa John's that I'll never think it's an appropriate name for furniture as opposed to food.

Long Day

2005-08-16T22:35:00.000-05:00

So, I'm going to share a frustration with everyone who reads my blogs, with the disclaimer that I'm not really that upset, I just wish I'd been able to eat lunch before 3:30 this afternoon.

A friend of mine emailed me a couple of weeks ago and asked if I'd be able to meet him for lunch to catch up before school starts again next week. Well, I'm really busy, so I told him that there were only two days in all of three weeks that I was free for more than half an hour at lunchtime. We arranged to meet today. Now, I admit, I could have saved myself a bit of frustration by confirming when and where we were meeting before today, but I assumed based on the wording of the emails we exchanged that we would meet at 12:30 when I got off work, at my workplace on campus. I assumed we would then get lunch somewhere near campus, because I had to be at my other campus job at 2:10.

So, I left work a little late, as he hadn't stopped by and I work at a very public place and I had things to finish. Then I went to punch out, and came back up to wait. Well, at 12:45 I was wondering where he was, but he's got young kids, so I figured he was just running late or something. Then I started getting paranoid that we were supposed to meet somewhere else, so I checked my email, but there was nothing. Now, I didn't have this guy's phone number (I know, I really should be better prepared), so I had to call Heather in Kentucky and get her to give me his number, and then I called. Well, he had completely forgotten. At this point, it's 1:05, and I'm hungry, since I ate breakfast at 6:45am. I told him not to worry about meeting me, since he was hanging out with some other people, but he said, "No, no, I made a committment, I'll be there in 15 minutes." So I wait. Outside. In the 90 degree heat. He shows up at 1:25, and asks if I want to grab coffee. I don't like coffee, and I was really hot, but fortunately the coffee place was closed, so we just sat and chatted. Then, at 2:08 I finally get it into the conversation that I've got to go, so I have to hike up a hill, and do some interviews, and be really really hungry and thirsty.

Moral of the story: It was nice to catch up, but if you tell someone you'll treat them to lunch and they've wasted and hour of their 1.5 hour lunch break waiting for you, either take them somewhere fast or don't bother coming so that they can go get something on their own.

The good news is, that I've started another project. I know, I know, is that really good news? Well, I've got to go to two weddings in the next few weeks, and I've decided to make myself a capelet to wear. I picked up some Joann Sensation's Rainbow Boucle (for the first time, I might add) to make a Star Crossed Capelet. I hope it works out, and quickly. Anyone out there tried one of these?

Woo-hoo!

2005-08-15T00:58:00.000-05:00

Wow! So, I took Deneen's advice and submitted the ripple afghan I designed to the 2001 Crochet Pattern-a-Day Calendar. I heard back from Annie Modesitt that she would like to put the pattern in the calendar! I'm really excited, since I've never published anything before. Now to celebrate by, um, going to bed. I just wanted to post first, but the internet has been, well, spotty around here. I love having free wireless in my apartment; I don't love when my building's transmitter is down and I have to pick up from the next building over.

At least the waiting lets me work on my Minesweeper record times; my goal is to beat J.K. Rowling's best time. I'm handicapped, however, by the fact that I've only got a one-button mouse and have to flag mines by using the "ctrl" key. I've seriously considered investing in a two button mouse only to improve my score, as it's above 200 seconds right now for expert, and back in my Windows days I got down to the 160's. And yes, I freely admit that I'm pathetic.

Too Much Repetition

2005-08-10T19:13:00.000-05:00

And no, I'm not talking about a boring pattern. I'm talking about my own writing. I've known for quite awhile that I have a tendency to use the same words again and again. But I seriously just sent an email to someone using repetitive phrasing and the word "right" twice in one sentence. Of course, I didn't read through the email before I sent it. I do think that I need to work on this, though, as I'll be teaching writing this year. Any of you dear readers might have noticed that my writing tends to be in a conversational style. I'm capable of academic writing, but time will tell if I can teach it.

And now, back to crochet. Or rather, knitting, because I'd like to post a picture of a swatch I knitted up last week.

The yarn is Andean Silk Twist in Sunset, and I ordered it to be one in a series of colors of a striped sweater I'm planning on knitting. I wanted to see how it looked actually knitted, and I was really pleased with it. It's not really a variagated yarn, it's got 4 plys that are each a different color, which creates a neat effect. Of course, the swatch is posing with my new Sheepie Apron, which was an awesome gift for Christmas in July. Thanks again to the elf that gifted me! This present made my month. I absolutely love Donna's Sheepie graphic. Anyone else?

Back from Vacation

2005-08-09T21:17:00.000-05:00

Got back from vacation last night; I went to Mt. Olympus, a waterpark in the Wisconsin Dells and then I saw Shakespeare's "The Merry Wives of Windsor" outdoors in Spring Green, WI. It was a lot of fun, and the weather was nice and warm. In the car, I worked on some, uh, stuff, for my Secret Pal. What fun!

Today my roommate and best friend in the world, Heather, moved to Kentucky. It's doubly weird because it's not like it was just my roommate moving out, and it's not just my best friend moving, it's both at the same time, and I've never lived alone before. As a treat to myself, I preordered Wrap Style. I really like the capelet on the cover, although I know I'll never be able to knit something that complicated. If the insides are as good as the cover, I'll be happy, even if it's only ever inspiration. The review at CrochetMe mentioned a sort of "designer's notebook" section at the end, and I've been really tempted to try my hand at shawls and capelets and the like lately. I hope this book lives up to my expectations (don't worry, I'm sure it will).

Speaking of designing my own shawls/capelets/etc., there are NEW YARNS at KnitPicks, and I'm dying to use them, but I don't know what to do. I'll find something, though.

Yay Secret Pals!

2005-08-01T18:38:00.000-05:00

So, Autumn Secret Pals began today in Crochetville, and I'm excited. I got the name of my SP last night and eagerly began researching her... you know, reading her blog, searching for her previous posts at C'ville, all that. It was fun, and I've already compiled a list of things that I'm definitely going to do as well as a list of other possibilites. It makes me want to laugh evilly, a nice "muah ha ha." Maybe that's just me... but I doubt it.

In other news, I was gifted by a stellar Elf today for Christmas in July. Pictures will come soon, but for now I'll just say that I'm spoiled. Someone out there is really sweet. I really enjoyed Christmas in July; it was so much fun to send things out and wait for people to get them and post that they were surprised and happy, and then find something in my own mailbox and be surprised and happy and know that someone out there was being thoughtful. **Happy sigh**

As you may have read, I've been working on some of Crochet Me's Pike Place Market Bags, and I've been thinking about embroidering them. Well, I saw a post over at The Scottish Lamb with a gorgeous felted and embroidered tea cozy. You should all check it out.

Now I'm going to move my car to the street, as some idiots moving in don't know the meaning of parking lot courtesy.

Done with my slump?

2005-07-29T14:47:00.000-05:00

Dare I say it? Yes, I really do think my slump is over. I finished the blanket last night, and I'm actually excited to start and finish my next project! While I have plenty of WIPs, I'm going to start a Pike Place Market Bag in some bright red wool for a co-worker of mine. And to celebrate my most recent FO, I ordered more yarn last night! I really just wanted this cabled hat pattern so that I could make the plain white one for my stepdad for Christmas, but I didn't want to pay $3 shipping for a $2 pattern, so I added my first set of Addi Turbo knitting needles and a bunch of yarn until, um, I qualified for free shipping.

I'm planning a knit cardigan in Knit Picks' Andean Silk, and it's going to be striped, so I got some of the Sunset colorway to see if I like it, and then I got some of the new Gossamer yarn. I think it was just released last week, and while I've never done anything with lace weight yarn, it's absolutely gorgeous, so I got some. I'm thinking about making a shawl for myself out of it, although I don't know for sure what I'll do. We'll see what I decide when I see the yarn....

I'm heading out to visit my sis and her new baby girl after work today, so hopefully I'll be able to post later this weekend or Monday about progress on the bag!

Welcome to the world, Ainsley Grace

2005-07-28T22:06:00.000-05:00

I am again a proud auntie! My sister Erin just had her first child, a baby girl named Ainsley Grace. She was born at 9:28pm, which ironically is the same time I was sewing in ends on her baby blankie... here's a photo:

I made it pretty small because I wanted it to fit nicely on top of a baby carrier or stroller, and to tuck nicely into a car seat. Also, I only had two days to make it, because I've been doing other stuff, of course. I think it works either with the stripes going horizontally or vertically, but I photographed it this way for fun.

Tomorrow I have to work all day, and then I'm heading out to visit the new parents and child. I hope I won't be in the way, but I want to visit, and let Erin nap, and make some lasagne to leaveout there.

That's pretty much all the news there is... hope you're all having a nice end of July! I've had a nice month, what with the Sea of Yarn swap and Christmas in July over at Crochetville. Now I just have to wait a couple of days to find out who my Autumn Secret Pal is! I'm excited, most especially to find out who I have and start figuring out what to make/get for her (him? I don't know if any guys have signed up). And now, since I've FINALLY FINISHED SOMETHING, I'm going to relax.

I Can Never Come Up With a Catchy Title

2005-07-27T09:29:00.000-05:00

I've spent the last week doing a little bit of knitting and crocheting, and relaxing. Of course, since I spent the whole weekend relaxing, I just want to keep on relaxing through to next weekend. I don't really get to, though.

Since last Wednesday, I've finished the sleeves of my first knit baby sweater. I haven't blocked it or seamed it yet, but that's okay. I started the back of a more reasonably sized baby sweater (the first one, a cardigan, might fit a toddler, and it's really not bigger than the pattern says, the pattern is just rather vague) so that my sis might have a handknit sweater to dress the darling child in this year. Of course, I've got my eyes on a lovely dressy sweater that I'd like to make to be worn around Christmas, but we'll see if the child ever gets that.

In other news, I've restarted the baby afghan and refrogged it, too. Now I'm at square one, and a blankie's got to be ready by Friday, as that's when I'm heading out to see the new baby, who is scheduled (yes, I said scheduled...) to be born on Thursday. Of course, I work 10:30-6 on Friday, and then I have to drive 4.5 hours to see Sis, so I've got to get the blankie done well before Friday (by this, of course, I mean during the wee hours of Friday morning, when I'm cursing myself for not getting it done sooner).

I still haven't actually finished anything, but that's life. I made some nice knit swatches in KnitPicks Andean Silk, which is undoubtedly my favorite yarn ever. And I really mean that. I have a cardigan I'm planning on making for my dear roommate out of this yarn, and I'd like to make something for myself out of it, too. If this yarn is ever discontinued, I think I'll just cry... all the more reason to buy as much as I can get my greedy little hands on now, right?

My roommate, Heather, dyed yarn for the first time this week; she turned some wool green and some purple. I'm planning on felting her a Bible case with it, for her journey to seminary. Of course, as she knows how many things I actually finish in a reasonable amount of time, I'm sure she'll be happy to get it at any time before she graduates four years from now. I really do intend to have it done soon, but prior to that, I've got to finish one of the felted Pike's Place Market Bags that I continually talk about working on. Do I really work on it, though? Not so much. I do need to have it done in early August, though, to give to my coworker. Then I can finally get to business finishing the sweaters, the pencil bags, the Bible cover, and maybe, just maybe, something for myself.

Last year I gave out lots of crocheted stuff for Christmas, and that was the plan again this year, but I just don't know. I don't think I'll have that much time, you know? I'd like to make an afghan for my Daddy, and if those Market Bags work up quickly, I'd like to make some for various other people I know, and I desperately want to make a fabric bowl for someone I know, as it would be the perfect gift, and I'd like to maybe knit some stocking caps for my stepdad. I've got a shawl in mind for Mom, but I already know it'll take forever, and I also know that I don't have forever to work.

As a non-crochet side note, I've got an Apple iBook, and I love it more than any person should love a computer. Heather finally decided to take the plunge and ordered one a couple of weeks ago, but due to some glitches it didn't actually get delivered until yesterday. In other news that is clearly related, yesterday Apple unveiled the improved, much faster, free Bluetooth, bigger hard drive, more included memory, same old price iBook. Isn't that a bummer? Well, Murphy's Law and all that.

Anyway, I hope you're all having a nice end of July, and hopefully I'll be back soon with pictures of what I've finished.

Slumping

2005-07-20T09:45:00.000-05:00

I think I've hit a slump. It just feels like it's been forever since I've finished anything, you know? Since May the only things I've finished have been swatches of knitting and crocheted dishcloths, and yet I feel like I've got half a million WIPs. Let's see, right now I've got:

• Knitted Baby Cardigan 70% done
• Knitted iPod Cozy (blue) 95% done
• Knitted iPod Cozy (pink) 30% done
• Pike Place Market Bag in hand dyed yarn 20% done
• Crocheted Sweater/Shrug 40% done, to be frogged today as I hate it, and it's for me
• Crocheted pencil bags (2) 35% done, after being reinvented

The problem with all this is that I've seen about five hundred things I desperately want to make, but I can't bring myself to start anything more until I actually finish something else. Except that pink iPod cozy, I just started that last night. But that's the last thing I'm starting until I finish more stuff, and preferably something crocheted, as I feel I've been neglecting that and it's my favorite.

And a light bulb just lit above my head: I have to start something new, and right away! My sister's baby is due Aug 2, but it seems that was overestimated, and they're going to induce July 28th. Last week I frogged the baby blanket I was working on with every intention of restarting it right away, but that didn't happen. Now I have five fewer days to work! Well, there goes my plan of not starting anything else. I've got to start that blanket tonight, and as soon as it's done, I've got to finish a Pike Place felted bag, as it's promised to my coworker.

In other news, I got a huge box of Knit Picks Wool of the Andes in the mail yesterday. It's got eleven balls of Tomato, and eleven big hanks of natural just waiting to be dyed with Kool-Aid. It feels similar to LB Fishermen's Wool (as they're obviously both 100% wool); they're both a little rougher than I would regularly use, but I think they'll both be fine when felted. The advantage of the Knit Picks is that it's a few dollars cheaper than the LB.

I'm not that much of a yarn snob, I just can't spend $8 on 50g of yarn. I do have high standards when it comes to how the yarn feels, though. What do I mean by that? That I probably wouldn't pick Red Heart Super Saver for a project, not because it's acrylic or because it's sold at Wal-Mart, but because it's scratchy. I want to make things I'll feel comfortable cuddling up with, so if I need something cheap, I go with Caron Simply Soft or something like it. I have jumped headfirst into Knit Picks yarn, mostly because it's gorgeous and inexpensive. I just hope I'm not yet a snob about what I use, if only because my budget would never allow it....

What's Happening?

2005-07-10T21:25:00.000-05:00

Well, what's happening. I've unfortunately been ignoring my crochet for the last week or so; I've got to finish a baby blanket for my sister and lots of felted totes, but the felted bags won't begin until I get my much-anticipated ball winder! After that, there'll be no stopping me, but for now, lots of hanks that are unpleasant to work with. I also need to get myself into gear with that blanket, or I need to start it over (which will probably end up happening).

In other news, teaching myself to knit has been going well. I've progressed from square making to my first almost-FO (an iPod cozy awaiting some coordinating I-Cord) to a more than half done baby sweater! It's a cardigan out of Knitting for Two by Erika Knight, and I've got the back, the two front pieces, and half of one sleeve done already (of course, it's in chunky yarn, which helps). When it's done, I'm hoping to make another (much smaller) baby sweater that can be used in the months after the baby's birth and before this cardigan will fit....

And in even more news, my roommate has just finished up her first baby sweater and is starting her very first hat! She's only made afghans before, so this shaping stuff is new to her. I'll put up some pics sometime.

Kool-Aid Dyeing

2005-07-03T15:33:00.000-05:00

Well. The dyeing experience is over (for now), and it was so much fun. Seriously. And this post? Lots of pictures. Seriously.

Up first: all of the yarn got wound into hanks around the back of a desk chair. That was fun, for awhile.

I can't express to you how long this took. I did a decent job of making the hanks even; they're approximately 2 ounces each. Then I soaked the yarn as my guide (Julie's post about dyeing yarn) suggested. You can see the yarn soaking in the corner of the next picture, which is mostly a picture of my lovely Kool-Aid dyes.

That's essentially all of the counter space that exists in my apartment... again, seriously. FYI, each of those bowls held 2 packets of the selected color, slightly less than 2 tablespoons of white vinegar (I didn't want to run out), and 1 cup of warm water. Each set of three bowls was enough for 3-2 oz. skeins of yarn.

At this point, I realized that the picture of my dye looked an awful lot like another picture I have... sorry for the slow loads, but this one's got a lot of good memories with it.

That's a picture of the dumplings I learned to make when I was in China last summer. Do the pictures look similar to anyone else? I thought it was strange.

Anyway, I forgot to get any sort of turkey baster type utensil at the grocery store, so I used 1/4 cup measures to pour dye onto my yarn. It worked really well for my purposes, and my pie plate was the perfect size for a plastic-wrapped packet of yarn. Fortunately I have lots of pie plates, and they all fit in my tiny college student's apartment sized microwave.

Here's a shot of the yarn drying in my shower... there's lots of yarn in there.

It's still in the shower, as I didn't finish until 1:20 in the morning, but it's almost all dry now. I think some of the thicker hanks have a bit of dampness at the bottoms, but they'll have to hurry up, as I need to take a shower!

Also as an FYI, the solid blues in the picture were a combination of 1 packet Ice Blue Raspberry Lemonade and 1 packet of Berry Blast mixed together in 1 c warm water with 2 Tbsp white vinegar.

A mini-hank that I dyed Lemon-Lime for accent stitching dried quickly, and I've already wound it up. I stuck some undyed Fishermen's Wool in with it, to show the change.

Now, isn't that pretty? As a side comment, I thought the wet wool (when it was soaking) smelled a lot like damp chewing tobacco (eeew, right?), but the Kool-Aid smelled great despite the vinegar! And now that my first dyeing experiment is over, it's nearly time to jump into a felting experiment, as that's what all of this wool is for!

Cleaning Out My Camera

2005-07-03T14:56:00.000-05:00

Some interesting pics to post real quick. Up next, of course, will be more on my dyeing experience, but I thought I'd split the posts for any low-bandwidth friends.

I found a photo on my camera this morning of some squares I sent off for a comfortghan, and thought I'd share.

I got the square pattern out of 200 Crochet Squares. It was super simple and I really like how they turned out. The book itself is okay; I really like a lot of the squares, but I find the thought of making a whole afghan out of squares rather more daunting now than I did when I bought the book.

What's next? Oh, yeah! I've been building up my stash recently. Two weeks ago I got this yarn in the mail, which is earmarked for dishcloth use. The color is much nicer in person, but this is the only photo I could get.

And I got some lovely thread, mentioned in an earlier post. Here's the picture!

It's really really pretty. Don't know quite yet what I'll be making; I'll just wait for inspiration to hit me.

Long Process

2005-07-02T21:28:00.000-05:00

Hmmm. It's taking longer than I anticipated to get the yarn in shape to dye. I think that may be because I have three skeins of Fishermen's Wool (24 ounces!!) to wind around my ever-obliging desk chair's back. I've got two skeins done and tied into eight hanks. Then I had to pause for dinner, as I've been forgetting meals recently. I know it seems odd, forgetting meals. But I normally don't eat breakfast anyway, and I forgot dinner last night (wrapped up in yarn research, I think). This morning I was kind of hungry (surprise surprise), so I went to the grocery store because I needed food if I was going to eat. I had to go get some yarn first, and after the groceries I had to stop by and pay the cable bill, and when I got back, I put the food away and forgot to eat. I finally remembered when my friend called to ask if I was ready to go down to the Jazz Festival around three and said she needed to get something to eat, and I realized that I did too.

At any rate, I George Foremaned some tasty pork chops for dinner, and now I have to wash a bunch of glasses (my least favorite dish to wash, and therefore the one that's always pushed to the end of the line) so that my sink is ready for yarn. Hmmm, I'll probably have to clean out the sink before I put any yarn in there, too. But I told myself that I wasn't allowed to dye the yarn until the dishes were (mostly*) done, so I'd better get cracking if I want the yarn to be ready to dry overnight, and I want to go to bed at a reasonable hour.

The skeins of wool are lovely, though, and calling to me, so I'll update later, and hopefully be able to tell you all that my yarn is bright and cheerful!

* Experience tells me that I won't really wash all of the dishes. Everything has to be washed by hand, and therefore I usually only get 100% of the dirtys clean if I'm going to be out of my apartment for a week or longer. It works, right?

Relaxing Holiday Weekend

2005-07-01T21:46:00.000-05:00

Woo hoo! It's time for a relaxing holiday weekend! We'll see how relaxing it is, but my goal is to get some quality yarn time in. Let's see... I've been working on some dishcloths for a charity project, and started a shawl for my roommate that is now on hold for the forseeable future. I keep thinking I should work on the sweater I'm crocheting myself, but I just can't force it right now. I've got to work on my sister's baby blanket.... What else is there? I hate when I know I'm forgetting something. Oh, well.

I've been wanting to enter an afghan in the State Fair here, but as luck would have it, I remembered that I had to send in the entry form at 5:45 tonight, and it had to be postmarked by July 1, which is today, so I'm out of luck. Or maybe it's off the hook? I hadn't actually started anything for the fair, so now I don't have to worry about that.

In addition to the yarn from the swap, my stash has grown even more lately! I got three balls of thread from Jackie at Crochetville. I also got a couple of balls that were part of a shipment of yarn that I'm sending out as my part of the Sea of Yarn Swap, so no more on that till my partner's gotten her package.

I do have a big upcoming project, though... one of my co-workers requested a Pike Place Market Bag, so I'm going to order some lovely Wool of the Andes from Knit Picks, which has fantastic yarn for little green.

The major project I'm hoping to undertake this weekend is buying Lion Brand Fishermen's Wool, dyeing it with some Kool-Aid, and turning it into a Market Bag of my own. Of course, I've never 1) dyed yarn or b) felted anything, so we'll see how it goes. I'll take photos along the way....

Of course, I've got to do the dishes before I can dye wool, as I don't have any counter space until the dishes are clean. And I don't know if the washer in my apartment building will give me the control I need for felting, so I might have to check out some laundromats. Of course, before any of this can happen, I've got plans to go to the Jazz Festival that's downtown this weekend. Don't worry, though. I'll make sure there's time for yarn shopping.

And now, I'm going to relax and watch The Dog Whisperer on National Geographic Channel.

Happy Birthday to Me!

2005-06-22T23:49:00.000-05:00

Woo hoo! So, not only is today my birthday, but I got my Sea of Yarn Swap package in the mail today!!!! Here's a pic....

Let's see what I got...
• Two skeins of bright blue Cotton-tots, which I'm ecstatic about, as I can't find it locally anymore :)
• Two skeins of Lion Boucle in Tutti Frutti; every time I go to the store, I look longingly at this yarn, but hadn't bought any.
• A BIG ball of Sugar'n Cream in bright blue; now I can make my mom some more washcloths.
• A skein of TLC Coral Rose, which is super shiny :)
• A big fat skein of Lion Brand Baby Soft in red, and it's really soft.
• Two skeins of Brunswick Heatherlands in magenta, which are very pretty.
• One skein of Joann Sensations Angel Hair in purple; I've really wanted to try this yarn, it's one of the softest I've ever touched. Now I can make a super soft scarf!
• Three balls of cotton thread, two in off white and one multicolored (you can't tell how pretty the colors are in the pic).

And as a surprise, thread sized hooks and two booklets of doily patterns! I can't wait to try my hand at some thread crochet; thanks so much, Denise!

Progress Report

2005-06-14T21:42:00.000-05:00

Well, when I last wrote, I made myself a to do list... let's see how far I've gotten. Um, I sewed the ends in and mailed four squares for a comfortghan, and have a RAOK package ready to go. That's about it....

I'm considering submitting a couple of afghans to the Iowa State Fair this summer. The problem, of course, being that I don't have a couple of afghans lying around, contrary to what my dear daddy seems to think. I have to make a decision by the end of the month, though, because that's when the registration is due. I'm thinking about recreating Kate's Ripple since I know that would be pretty easy. I've also got a half done wool blend ripple that I could finish, but it's imperfect to say the least. I'd like to submit two afghans, I just don't know how feasible that is. We'll see soon enough.

I haven't had much to update recently because I'm not letting myself crochet or buy yarn until I clean my apartment. Of course, it's difficult to really want to clean, and I've been super busy. Anyway, I should be able to crochet by the end of the week. This is especially important because I got paid today and would like to go shopping for the Sea of Yarn Swap at Crochetville! I'm really excited to find some neat stuff....

More tomorrow, as I will hopefully remember to update for WIP Wednesday!

To Do?

2005-06-08T16:36:00.000-05:00

Gah! It's been super busy around here for the last week; my boss has been on vacation, so I was in charge at work, and she just got back but Freshman Orientation started today, so there's been no rest for the wicked. Also, last week I worked with a new girl, and she was saying completely inappropriate things, so I had to let my boss know, and she got let go yesterday. This is good because she was pretty awful, but bad because it means that I have to cover a lot of her shifts. And does that leave much time for crochet? No. In an effort to organize my mind, which is running in about forty directions right now, I'm going to try making an annotated to do list of my crochet stuff....

• Finish (altered) Draped Bed Jacket:
I've been working on this one for about a week and a half; I got halfway through the first time and had to frog it all, as it was working up wider than I expected. I am again about halfway done, and will hopefully finish it soon. I'm using Red Heart Plush, so the sweater/jacket thing is super-soft right now.

• Sew in ends on squares:
I finished 5 squares for a comfortghan request on Crochetville, but I've got to sew in the ends before I can finish.

• Send out RAOK package:
Few people read my blog so far, but I'll keep mum on the details so as not to spoil any surprises.

• Finish pencil bags:
I'm working on some really cool LB Microspun pencil bags that I designed on my own, and I need to finish them soon so that I can start using them- hopefully before I start teaching in a week and a half.

• Start Erin's baby afghan:
I need to make an afghan for my sister before she has her baby in late July/early August. I want to use Caron Simply Soft Brites, because the colors are so fun; I know it's worsted, not baby weight, but it's pretty thin. Anyone think there'll be a problem?

• Start Microspun ripple wraps:
This is a percolating project; I really want a wrap, and an extra to gift, I just need to think a big more about my materials. Microspun? Or Caron SS Brites? The world may never know....

• Buy and dye some wool::
I've got tons of Kool-Aid in awesome colors, and I hope to dye my first wool soon! Hopefully in time for the Crochetville Sea of Yarn Swap!

• Other Potential Projects:
I also want to work up an afghan for the back of my futon, and maybe some throw pillows. And I need to start planning for Christmas presents! I really want to do a couple of the fabric bowls in Cozy Crochet by Melissa Leapman. Put some fruit in them, and voila! a tasty gift!

Well, that's about all for now. Maybe I'll actually finish something sooner or later....

Kate's Ripple

2005-05-26T13:10:00.000-05:00

Well, finals week is over and I'm back from vacation; hopefully I will now have plenty of time to update. Also, I got my computer hooked up to the apartment building's wireless network today, so it will be much more convenient for me to update everything now.

Let's see... after graduation, my roommate and I took off for Colorado to visit her sister. My plan for the extremely long car rides was to work on a ripple lapghan for my cousin, Kate, who graduated from high school last weekend. Of course, I realized an hour into the trip that I hadn't brought an essential ball of dye lot yarn with me, so I couldn't finish the afghan. Instead, I decided to start another, as we were stopping by her party on the way back from CO.

I ended up making a lapghan out of Caron Simply Soft Brites, using two strands of yarn throughout on a P hook. She has an affinity for early punk, so I picked unusual and bright colors that looked, well, let's say unusual while I was purchasing them but worked up nicely; here's a pic:

It worked up super quickly thanks to the big hook and multiple yarn strands; I like the texture and thickness so much that I think I'll work up something similar for the back of my futon. Because really, a home isn't complete until every possible thing is covered with crochet.

Photos of Charity Items

2005-05-10T14:15:00.000-05:00

Woo hoo, I finally got some pictures to put up here! First up is a shot of the lapghan I made for a charity auction....

The afghan is lying on a double sized bed, for perspective and all that. My dad ended up winning it at the auction, and he plans to give it to my sister, for whom it was originally intended anyway.

Also, here is the shawl I adapted from a Stitch Diva pattern:

I don't know who got that one at the auction, but Daddy said they were both taken.

I'm really glad I got to donate some stuff; I was super busy when I was working on them, but it was really nice to be able to contribute. Daddy said he thinks they got about $18,000 total for Jerry; in addition to the auction, there was a dinner, a bowling tournament, and a golf tournament. That money will obviously help out a lot with all of Jerry's medical bills and travel expenses.

In other news, it's finals week, and this is about the only break I get until Thursday. Hope you enjoyed the pictures!

Afghan Update

2005-05-06T14:05:00.000-05:00

I finished up the afghan and, well, semi-finished the shawl earlier this week. I decided that it was taking waaaaay to long to crochet the shawl (which is beautiful, by the way), so I modified the pattern and made it more of a trapezoidal wrap with no fringe. I've got pictures, and I'll post them when I get the chance.

My dad got them yesterday and mentioned to my mom that he thought they were really beautiful. I thought that was really sweet, since Dad's not the most complimentary guy. Also, the afghan was originally intended to go to my sister, who is expecting; well, Dad decided that he likes it so much that he's going to bid on it at the auction to give to Erin, to whom it was originally intended to go! I told him I could easily make another, especially since I overestimated the amount of yarn I would need for it and still have enough left over for another baby afghan, but I think he wants to bid on it anyway.

Have I mentioned yet that I'm not very good at figuring out how much yarn I will need?

Also this week I've been working on some pencil bags (now that the semester is over I really need one, right?). They're bright colors of Lion Brand Microspun, and I like them so far. If they bags work out, I'll post some pictures.

Thanks go to everyone at Crochetville for making me feel so welcome!

Well, it sure has been a long week

2005-04-30T13:16:00.000-05:00

Boy, I thought this week would never end; I've had papers and final projects galore to do. I managed to finish them all and a lapghan! Okay, so I still have to finish the border, but that's okay. I don't know the measurements right now, but it's not getting any bigger because I have to start a ten page paper this weekend.

Also, I got this shawl pattern from Stitch Diva Studios last week, and I'm working on one of those. That's another reason that I've decided not to make the lapghan a full fledged afghan, even though I don't have to mail it till Monday or Tuesday- if I can finish up a shawl, too, then I'll have two very different items to send, and hopefully get more money at the auction for Jerry.

In other crafty news (although it's not crochet...), I've got some tea towels to embroider for Mother's Day. My parents are divorced, and I embroidered some hankies for my dad's birthday earlier this month, and I think she was a little sad that I didn't show up with something for her, too. I also have to finish another dishcloth for Mom, because she loves the last one I made her. It makes my heart all warm to know that she uses it every day.

That's the great thing about moms; no matter how goofy looking the thing you make them, they'll always love it and be proud of you.

First post, and a story

2005-04-21T11:09:00.000-05:00

Hi all! Since this is my first post, let me just say that this is a blog to show my creative side to the world. Therefore, I will be posting about what I'm crocheting, what I've done, and what I hope to do someday, and occasionally some asides. I will add more information about myself later, and right now I'm going to play around with my settings a bit.

And the story.... Well, I'm a senior in college/first year grad student, and I'm nearing the end of the semester. The next two weeks will be insanely busy. So my dad called two nights ago to tell me about a charity auction he's organizing for a good friend of his who has cancer, and he said, "So, do you have, oh, I don't know, a spare afghan lying around that you want to donate?" It was adorable, but alas, I have no spare afghan. I'm currently making three, one for a cousing who graduates from high school at the end of May, one for a cousin who gets married at the beginning of June, and one for my sister, who is having a baby in August. And I'm doing tons and tons of homework. So of course, I say that I'll have one to him by May 5th, because I'm insane. The one I had started for my sister will now be turning into a charity afghan, and she'll just have to wait. I don't know where I'm going to carve out time in my schedule between homework, my job, and doing psych experiments for cash, but I'm sure it's, um, possible. Maybe?