Purls Just Wanna Have Fun!

Stitches West 2008

2008-02-26T13:52:00.001-08:00

Knitting a love song (Part 1)

2007-11-28T13:54:00.001-08:00

I Love this video! I love knitting and found this very endeering:) Had I known how to knit as a teenager --this could have been me! Although I must say I don't remember having any unrequited Love:)

I've moved to a new site

2006-07-14T11:17:00.000-07:00

Hello,

Thanks for visiting. As of today you can find me here. I have created a new blogland home and cant't wait to have you over for Knitting fun:)

Summer of Socks - The Knit is On!

2006-07-12T16:12:00.000-07:00

When I signed up for Summer of Socks I was elated as I had been obssesivly increasing my sock yarn stash. Fellow knitters warned me about socks being addictive. Little did I know that my obssesive compulsive personality would kick inn in this area too! When Zarzuela anounced this KAL I leaped at the opportunity to bust some of my humungous stash... I thought to myself --yeah! here is a golden opportunity to fill my sock drawer and bust some stash... Christmas presents may be a side bonus too:)

Picture of my small mountain of sock yarn thats been growing, growing, growing.... I will post prettier categorized pictures later.

Summer of Socks is in full swing at Chez Marisol's. I have 4 pairs on the needles and will be casting on for 2 more. Also, we are going camping in 2 weeks and I will be brining 2 to 3 of these puppies along for the ride. This should count for some vacation knitting as we are going camping out in Clear Lake.

Here are pictures of the various socks I am working on:

Clapotis Fini!!!!! - Goooooollllllllllllll!!!!!!

2006-07-09T13:59:00.000-07:00

Knitting for World Cup - What and Experience!
Wow, I actually made it with pleanty of time to spare. I finished it this morning before the final game started. But yesterday, truth be told, I was not sure I would make it. This morning I got up early and finished. This was a glorious moment as this garment was labor intensive. Fun but labor intensive. Anyhow, it was a great knit and I would consider making another. To make this I used Lornas Laces Lion and Lamb in Bittersweet. The same color as the original. I am glad I did, as I do love this colorway.

I must say though--that it was a bit ironic that I chose the bittersweet as it turned into a bittersweet experience when I ran out of yarn 2 rounds into the decrease rows. I ended up getting an adittional skein from my LYS. Unfortunately, it was from a different die lot. But oh well--what is a desperate woman to do under such circumstances? I was trying to beat the deadline and complete this before the end of World Cup!!!

Without further ado Here is my Bittersweet Clapotis:

Out with the Blue and In with the Purple

2006-06-30T18:11:00.000-07:00

But not so fast. Before we move forward and delve into the purple... Here a couple of Blue Finished Objects:
On the left is a pair of Ragmittens and on the right is a Purl Lace Scarf. Both yarns are fom Insubordknit:

June was a good knitting month --I definetly did better than May. There was only one item of all of those on my list that I was not able to complete: The Felted Clogs. However, this was beyond my control as I needed 2 colorways of the selected yarn and I did not realize that until I was about to cast on. I placed an order but it was un-avoidably detained. The good news is that the clogs will be in varying shades of blue, violet, indigo--all the shades of blue and purple. Thus, they will be a good transitionary project.

Now moving into July... Here is a shot of the purple stash I will be busting through and a couple of projects I have in mind:

On the left is Carla--Lolly isnpired me to knit my first sweater and this seems like a good starter garment. On the right, is a Fiber Trends Sheep tote that I have been meaning to make --but held off 'til August in honor of PS.

Project Spectrum's Theme of the month is all things Purple!

With that in mind here is a song for you:

Purple People Eater:

Well I saw the thing comin' out of the sky
It had the one long horn, one big eye.
I commenced to shakin' and I said "ooh-eee"
It looks like a purple people eater to me.

It was a one-eyed, one-horned, flyin' purple people eater.
(one-eyed, one-horned, flyin' purple people eater)
A one-eyed one-horned, flyin' puple people eater
Sure looks stange to me. (one eye?)

Well he came down to earth and lit in a tree
I said Mr. Purple People Eater don't eat me
I heard him say in a voice so gruff
I wouldn't eat you cuz you're so tough

It was a one-eyed, one-horned flyin' purple people eater
one-eyed, one-horned flyin' purple people eater
one-eyed, one-horned flyin' purple people eater
Sure looks strange to me. (one horn?)

I said Mr. Purple People Eater, what's your line
He said it's eatin' purple people and it sure is fine
But that's not the reason that I came to land
I wanna get a job in a rock and roll band

Well bless my soul, rock and roll, flying purple
people eater. Pidgeon-toed, undergrowed, flyin'
purple people eater (we wear short shorts)
Flyin' purple people eater
sure looks strange to me.

And then he swung from the tree and lit on the
ground. He started to rock, really rockin' around
It was a crazy little ditty with a swingin' tune
(sing aboop boop aboopa lopa lum bam boom)

Well, bless my soul, rock and roll
flyin' purple people eater.
Pigeon-toed, undergrowed, flyin' purple peopleeater.
Flyin' little people eater
Sure looks strange to me. (purple people?)

And then he went on his way, and then what do
you know. I saw him last night on a TV show.
He was blowing it out, a'really knockin' em dead
Playin' rock and roll music through the horn in
his head

Knitters Hodge Podge Post

2006-06-29T13:43:00.000-07:00

I have been meaning to blog for some days on a number of different things. Some Items I received from my SP8, the progress on my Clapotis, some awesome project bags that I acquired through trade, and late breaking news on the Petals Collection.

So lets begin with my SP8. Earlier this month she had surprised me with the most beautiful set of swarovski crystal stitch markers. I have used these several times--most recently to keep track of where I should be dropping stitches on my Clapotis. Through several email exchanges I mentioned that I was in need of some more of these and that I was looking to purchase some. She is so awesome!!! that she in no time whipped up another 25 markers and dropped those in the mail to me with additional goodies (some handspun purple yarn, lollipops, and pink pen). Needles to say, I was jumping up and down when I got her post and saw what was inside. Thanks SP8 --You Rock! Here they are along with Clapotis in progress:

Next in line are a couple of project bags that my new blog pal Leah made for me. I was visiting Teyani's blog and came across the prettiest Sock Project bags... Teyani mentioned that she had received these from Leah. I quickly contacted her and entered into a little deal of my own. Here is what I scored:

Note: This all transpired prior to me entering the KSKS sock bag kitting project.

On the Sock Yarn front: I had signed up for the Petals Sock Club over at Sundara Yarns and I received my first shipment yesterday. This is a 6 months subscription but now that I have received my first shipment--I can already tell that I will need to extend my membership and go for the full year! Be still my heart! Look at this package of sock yarn goodness:) Isn't it Divine?

Clapotis & Rock & Weave Socks Work in Progress:

2006-06-23T10:08:00.000-07:00

I decided to pick up my poor Clapotis that had been sitting on the needles since January. When I first started working on this pattern it seemed to just go on and on forever. However, since then a number of things have happened... I learned how to knit lace, socks, hats, and overall have experimented with more intricate patterns. I believe these previous projects have enriched my knitting experience and I can now look at the Clapotis and have fun with it! I am really enjoying this pattern. I guess you can say I am looking at it with fresh eyes.... Sometimes this is what it takes. Look at how pretty the Lion and Lamb - Bittersweet yarn is--oh and look I've made some good progress too!

Also, I finally cast on the Rock and Weave socks for the BMFA Rocking Sock Club. These will serve for two Knitalongs that I am participating in BMFA and Summer of Socks. Here is a picture of the cuff progess:

June Project Spectrum - FOs

2006-06-17T19:26:00.000-07:00

I have 2 projects down from the stash I had selected to use for June:

Here are the items I completed: A striped Blue hat from the Be Sweet Magic Ball and the Christine Bylsma Ladder shawl:

Next up are a pair of Felted Clogs from the Trendsetter Pattern:

And a Sheepishly Yours - See Jane Knit Scarf using the FightClub yarn that Insubordiknit spun for me.
Here is a closeup of the yarn:

That leaves only 3 skeins from the orignal list that are on the fence. The Ragamittens skein on the bottom right also from insubordiknit--will probably be completed. The only one I am not sure about is the Lornas Laces Socks... Overall, it is ends up being the same # of projects given that I picked up the felted clogs!

ColorSwap Goodies Arrived

2006-06-16T18:00:00.000-07:00

Thank you Dyann!

Dyann my June ColorSwap Pal sent me the most awesome package! June's theme was blue --following the Project Spectrum theme of the month. I really enjoyed opening this package. Dyann took the time to wrap each of the little gifts individually in shiny blue wrapping paper.
Take a look at the loot:

Check out all the goodies: A picture frame, Fortissima sock yarn Cotton Colori in the pretiest varigated shades. Some beautiful loose beads to make a bracelet or stitch markers. A really nice scented bar of soap, a chocoalte bar YUM!, an address book and my two very favorite items: a pretty Blue Star Wind chime and a "Blues" CD especially created for me .

Meme

2006-06-15T07:08:00.000-07:00

I just saw this Meme over at Leah's blog and it looks like fun. So please indulge me. It Looks like it came from Cara to Leah, then to me.

Please leave a one-word comment that you think best describes me — it can only be one word long. Then copy and paste this into your blog so that I may leave a word about you.

Knit Sock Kit Swap

2006-06-14T18:40:00.000-07:00

I just recently joined another swap the "Knit Sock Kit Swap"--this one is a little different in that the objective is to create a sock kit for a pal and send it to them. You start off by creating a project bag (for socks) and then add other items that would be helpful for the sock knitter including a suggested pattern. Very creative and fun. Here are the answers to the The Questionnaire:

What are your favorite colors? Fuschia, Turquoise, Green, lots of vivid colors, Earth Tones too (don't like neons).

Are you a new sock knitter? Yes

How long have you been knitting socks? 1 month.

Do you prefer solid or multicolored yarn? Multicolored

What fibers do you prefer in sock yarn? Merino Super Wash - soft and a little on the thick side

Where do you usually knit socks? At home on the couch, in front of TV during prime time after my son goes to bed.

How do you usually carry/store small projects? I have this thin project bag I purchased at my LYS. Its on its last leg though from the pointy size 1s, 2s, 3 needles.

What are your favorite sock knitting patterns? I like Knitty, Have a number of Lornas laces, I like lace patterns and search the web some times.

What are your favorite sock knitting techniques?
I only know how to knit toe up on 2 circulars for now. I tried Cat Bordhis cuff down on 2 circulars and got only half way. Need to give this another go.

What new techniques would you like to try? Knitting 2 socks at once on circular needles.

Do you prefer circulars or dpns for sock knitting?
Circulars.

What are some of your favorite yarns?
Socks That Rock, Vesper, Scouts Knitted Swag, Sundara yarns, Crown Mountain Farms - Hop sock Yarn, Yarn Botanika on KPixie.

What yarn do you totally covet?: Knitting Sunshine Yarn: Dragonfly and Beach Day, Socks That Rock- I'm trying to collect all the colors. Vesper also, I only missing 2 colors right now: Knit and Tonic and Storm on the water.

Any pattern you would love to make if money and time were no object? The Pommatomus off of Knitty.

Favorite kind of needles (brand, materials, straights or circs, etc)? I like Addi Turbos and Crystal Palace.

If you were a specific kind of yarn, which brand and kind of yarn would you be? I would be Malabrigo Thick and Thin or Worsted or Socks that Rock Thick handspun or sock yarn.

Do you have a favorite candy or mail-able snack?
Caramels, nuts and chews, english toffee

What’s your favorite animal?
Dogs, lions.

Do you have pets? What are their species/names/ages?
No pets for now.

If you were a color what color would you be?
Yellow or Aubergine

Describe your favorite shirt (yours or someone else’s)..
Nice soft cotton pullover with a ballet neckline and 3/4 inch sleeves.

What is your most inspiring image, flower, or object in nature?
The Planet earth as seen from Outer Space

Tell me the best quote you’ve ever heard or read.
The coldest winter I ever spent--was a summer in San Francisco by Mark Twain. It gets cold out here in the summer because the fog rolls in to cool off the inland areas. Unfortunately it rolls in through the city by the bay to spread out and cool things off around us.

Do you have a wishlist?
Yes at Amazon. Knitpics is not working right now.

Anything else you’d like to share with the group today?
I just recently (quite accidentally) was introduced to spinning. I just bought a hand spindle and a spin it instructional book. I have some pencil roving from Crown Mountain Farms and will be giving spinning a go to see how I like it.

I got me some Mail Love from my Secret Pals

2006-06-11T18:49:00.000-07:00

I received an awesome postcard from my SP8 --She thought of me while vacationing in New Mexico. Isn't this a cool looking Hot Air Balloon? Check it out:

Also, This week my One Skein Secret Pal Kim sent an absolutely gorgeous skein of Hand Painted - Schaefer Yarn in Lola. Not only was the yarn inside icredibly soft and luxurious--but look at the packaging and cute card. Very impressive Kim - You Rock!

Aren't I lucky --I have the best Secret Pals ever!!!

An Obscene amount of Blue!

2006-06-03T20:00:00.000-07:00

Well here is a picture of my Blue Stash in all its glory!!!

OMG! I had no idea I had so much blue.... Who would of thunk it? It wasn't until I started pulling stuff out from my stash that I realized! Pretty darn big stash of blue you've got there sistah!--although from the looks of it I have more turquoise/teal than dark or baby blue--I tend to favor bright vivivd colors. But wait, there's more. I did not pull everything out. I know there are some skeins here and there that escaped from this picture.

In honor of PS June I will try to put a dent in it--at least 5 to 6 projects is my goal. We will see how well I do. I have been known to be overly omtimistic at times. Here are the yarns I have selected for June:

Oh oh... wait a minute, how did that Bittersweet Lornas Laces sneak in there? O.K. You caught me. I also plan to catch up on my unfinished Clapotis from February as well as get started on my Rockin Sock Club - socks in Fairgrounds (fairgrounds not present below).

One more FO and some goodies the Postman brought by

2006-06-02T11:02:00.000-07:00

Finally I was able to finish one of my Appletini socks that I had intended to knit for May's Project Spectrum Green Theme. Here it is knitted up in plain stockinette and a Picot edge. I must say I really like the varying shades of green stripes. Scout is very talented with her handpainted yarn. I can't wait to have the second one completed. For now, here is a picture of the first one:

Here are some goodies I've received over the past couple of days. My oh so pretty vintage button from my One Skein secret pal Kim and my new Socks That Rock Kit and first Skein for the BMFA Rockin' Sock club. Yup, I got in heehee... Also take a look at a couple of skeins of Sundara Sock yarn--wow these are gorgeous. The colorway is Chimney.

And last but most certainly not least! Look at the wonderful additions to my knitting library and the very pretty Turquoise Blue yarns for the first PS June project: The Ladder Shawl by Christine Bylsma.

Finished Objects and other Cool Stuff

2006-05-29T10:04:00.000-07:00

Last Weekend was my brothers Birthday he turned 40 and here are a couple of hats I knit up for the occasion.

Its been some time since my last post and I have been knitting--really I have. Here are some additional things I completed for May's Project Spectrum. I tried to stick to just green but sometimes its a little hard to knit just one color. I confess I deviated a little on my sweater socks--My very first pair by the way. I knit these Toe Up using 2 circs with Malabrigo yarn in Magenta. I really like the pooling of the bright green and purple. I am pretty proud of these. They came out nice considering its my first pair.

Other Project Spectrum items include a Bandana for me and a Postcard for my pal Sara:

Looky Looky What I Got from my SP8

2006-05-21T20:56:00.000-07:00

My SP8 The Naughty Elfin Rocks! Check out what I got in the mail this weekend:

I've been wanting this book for a while and can't wait to start reading it, and Wow aren't these stitch markers beautiful! They seem hand made--they are just stunning! I could not resist. I had to cast on for something immediately. Of course, I had been itching to get started on an instant gratification project--and what best to do the job? The green Gedifra bandana that I wanted to make for one of the May - Project Spectrum items. So here is a couple of shots of the first few rows of my bandana and the stitch markers in action:

Thanks Secret Pal --This totally made my weekend!

Mothers Day Shopping Spree - Stash Enhancement Yea!

2006-05-20T08:44:00.000-07:00

This post is a little late --But as I always say

Better Late than Never!

Boy did I have a wonderful Mothers Day Weekend On Saturday we had a picnic at Lake Del Valle with the family --my mom and mother in law were there too. We had a very relaxing day by the lake, good food, and lots of fun and games. Here is a picture of me and my son:

The next day - Sunday we went out for breakfast, then went to church and immediately following; my husband took me to Imagiknit for a Mother's day shopping spree whoopie!

ImagiKnit in San Francisco was having a 30% off sale and I scored some awesome Australian Merino by PearTree products. This stuff is incredibly soft (makes me want to find more). I plan to make a chunky shawl for the Neutrals month of Project Spectrum. I'm Still figuring out which one--perhaps it will be the begginers shawl from "A Gathering of Lace" we will see.

After the shopping spree, I headed off to SkeinLane in El Cerrito for part II of my Toe Up on circulars lesson. Later I came back we had dinner and topped things off with a nice movie.

Other Mothers Day yarn stash enhancements included:

2 Skeins of Claudia Handpainted Sock yarn in: Dark Olive (socks 2b for husband) and 1 ball of Gedifra Disrato in green for a "Mac and Me" Winter Bandana. Here is a picture the bandana pattern:

4 Skeins of Scouts Hand Painted Swag Sock yarn in: Tharzay, Hot Fudge & Blueberries, Fruit Salad, and Pumpkin Smores:

7 Skeins of the oh so beautiful Malabrigo in the following colors: 3 - Seleccion Privada A, K, J. 1 black, 1 Loro Barranquero , 1 Vaa, and 1 in Tortuga. The Seleccion Privada A (left most skein) is going to live with Stacey from Sheep in the City. Stacey has become enfatuated with this yarn (can you blame her!) and the Loro Barranquero is going to gifted to one of my swaparama pals..TBD.

Finally, there is some Vesper sock yarn coming my way along with some Sock Hop yarn--Pictures later.
I guess you could say I've been busy Hee Hee...After all, Living on the West Coast and all made it a little hard getting out to the Maryland Sheep and Wool Festival. See what happens when jealousy strikes!

Guess Who Met Debbie Stoller?

2006-05-17T13:36:00.000-07:00

Yup I met her while she visited Art Fibers in San Francisco to do a book review for "The Happy Hooker". She seems really nice --I did not have too much time to chat as my husband and little boy were waiting for me in the car. While I personally felt a bit rushed it was all good. She was great, she showed us a bunch of the projects from the book and talked about them. And she was wearing the outfit from the cover of her book. She is pretty down to earth.

All in all it was nice to see her in person.

Here a couple of shots of her at ArtFibers:

Oh and by the way, Guess who sent me an email yesterday? My Secret Pal - Naughty Elfin:) This is so exciting I cant wait to see who it is --I'll have to pay attention to the clues as this all unfolds over the next 3-4 months of SP8...

Project Color Swap Green Goodies Arrived!!!

2006-05-12T16:51:00.000-07:00

WoooHooo! I just got home and look what was waiting for me on my doorstep!

I could not wait to open it! I rushed in, put everything down and look at what I found! All these Wonderful Color Swap Goodies - All Green Themed from my wonderful Pal Lu.

Thanks so much Lu! I cant wait to start using the Kiss My Face Items and try those yummy pear candies. As for the yarns --they are all awesome. I already have plans for the Noro - Lily Skein- I will be turning this into a lovely headband from the pattern Knit & Tonic whipped up a couple of days ago. Check it out--don't you agree the Lily yarn is just made for this!

Sock Yarn - Stash Enhancement

2006-05-12T16:06:00.000-07:00

After catching the Sock Bug in a bad way --I've been shoping for Sock Yarn .... Of course, I had no sock yarn to begin with so I have been ravenously trying to acquire the best out there. Can I say that --I absolutely love, love, love Socks That Rock and Julia's Vesper Sock Yarn. Another great find is "Scouts Painted Swag" I have a couple of those in the mail to me that I should receive next week. Other nice finds are Claudia's HandPainted, and Lornas Laces Shepherd Sock.

Look at all the lovely yarns I have acquired:

Blue Moon Fiber Arts - Socks That Rock

Knitterly Things - Vesper Sock Yarn

Other Photos of Recent Sock Yarn - Stash Enhancments

Secret Pal 8 - Questionnaire

2006-05-10T15:31:00.000-07:00

1. What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with? What fibers do you absolutely *not* like? My favorite yarn right now is MalAbrigo from Uruguay --its just like butter! I also like Colinette Point 5, Lornas Laces, Vesper Sock Yarn, Claudia Hand Painted, and the oh so beautiful Socks that Rock!!! I guess this makes me a Yarn Snob:) I don't usually go for scratchy yarns. Unless they are linen or hemp which are supposed to be like that.

2. What do you use to store your needles/hooks in? I have a needle case for my circulars and a Jordanna Paige Knitting tube for my straits.

3. How long have you been knitting? Would you consider your skill level to be beginner, intermediate or advanced? I have been knitting for 2+ years. I would consider myself --Intermediate to advanced

4. Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list? Amazon is up and running. I need to figure out the Knitpicks one too.

5. What's your favorite scent? (for candles, bath products etc.) Any fresh scent, citrus, flowers, fruits are nice too.

6. Do you have a sweet tooth? Favorite candy? Yes, I like Nuts and chews, gummy candy, sours, exotic chocolates like Vosges.

7. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do? Do you spin? I do not spin -I have been getting into cards and post card making lately.

8. What kind of music do you like? Can your computer/stereo play MP3s? (if your buddy wants to make you a CD) Jazz, salsa, soft rock --no hip hop. I am sure I have MP3 if not my husband does.

9. What's your favorite color? Or--do you have a color family/season/palette you prefer? Any colors you just can't stand? I like most colors, earth tones, reds, burgandies, greens, yellow, pink, bright colors are nice too. NO Neons please.

10. What is your family situation? Do you have any pets? I am married and have one little boy. No pets.

11. Do you wear scarves, hats, mittens or ponchos? I wear all of these except for ponchos.

12. What is/are your favorite item/s to knit? Hats, shawls, purses, and lately socks--I am starting to get into socks.

13. What are you knitting right now? A couple of beanies for my brother, A flower basket shawl, 3 pairs of socks, a dishrag, a clapotis, and last but not least a toddler blanket.

14. Do you like to receive handmade gifts? Yes - they are more meaningful.

15. Do you prefer straight or circular needles? Bamboo, aluminum, plastic? I use all of these except for plastic.

16. Do you own a yarn winder and/or swift?
Yes, I have both.

17. How did you learn to knit?
One of my co-workers thought it would be a good to start a "Stitch&Bitch here at work. We agreed and she taught us all how to knit--A learn how to knit group session. The rest is history. We have been meeting at lunch every Wednesday for the past 2 years.

18. How old is your oldest UFO? 5 months --this would be the toddler blanket

19. What is your favorite holiday? Christmas!!!!

20. Is there anything that you collect? Hearts, Knitting nitnacks, jewlery boxes, pins

21. Any books, yarns, needles or patterns out there you are dying to get your hands on? What knitting magazine subscriptions do you have? Interweave Knits. Books I have a list going at Amazon.

22. Are there any new techniques you'd like to learn? I'd like to learn needle felting. I'd like to learn how to make a sweater and get better at making socks.

23. Are you a sock knitter? I am just getting into socks and I am very excited about this--I have been shopping for cool sock yarns: Lornas Laces, Socks that Rocks, Vesper Sock yarn, Scouts Knitted Swag, Cludias Hand Painted, Spunky Eclectic. What are your foot measurements? I wear a size 9.

24. When is your birthday? (mm/dd: July 24th

Project Spectrum - May

2006-05-09T11:22:00.000-07:00

All things Green! Green Oh so soothing Green - Here I come!!!
Look at all the beautiful yarn that awaits me... Here is some of my stash that will be used up and the knitting projects that I have chosen for May:

This beautiful Blue Sky Cotton yarn will become a Summer Shawl --see picture propped up by the yarn

Additionally on my list of May Projects (not counting the post card swap):

1) The left most Cone is ArtFibers: Golden Chai color #10 - This will be a Flower Basket Shawl by Evelyn A. Clark
2) ArtFibers yarn in Tsuki and Rune - This will become a Loopy & Luscious Scarf
3) Some Appletinni Sock Yarn from "Scouts Knitted Swag" check her out at http://scoutj.blogspot.com/ --this of course is a pair of toe up socks
4) My first finished May project --a Monster Hat for my brother who is turning 40 on the 19th. This kit I bought from KPIXIE --made by http://www.insubordiknit.com/

I will try to work on additional items as time permits. Mothers day is killing me right now. Not to mention the kniting classes that have sucked up some of my time: Knitting Lace and Toe Up Socks.

For all my Knitting Sisters - Knit On!

2006-04-21T10:34:00.000-07:00

The following is not Knitting Related but and important message to all women:

Sisters

Fifty years ago, a young wife sat on a sofa on a hot humid day, drinking iced tea and visiting with her mother. As they talked about life, about marriage, about the responsibilities of life and the obligations of adulthood, the mother clinked the ice cubes in her glass thoughtfully and turned a clear, sober glance upon her daughter.

"Don't forget your Sisters," she advised, swirling the tea leaves to the bottom of her glass. They'll be more important as you get older. No matter how much you love your husband, no matter how much you love the children you may have, you are still going to need Sisters. Remember to go places with them now and then; do things with them.

"Remember that 'Sisters' means ALL the women... your girlfriends, your daughters, your women friends, and your other women relatives, too. You'll need other women. Women always do."

"What a funny piece of advice!" the young woman thought. "Haven't I just gotten married? Haven't I just joined the couple-world? I'm now a married woman, for goodness sake! A grownup! Surely my husband and the family we may start will be all I need to make my life worthwhile!"

But she listened to her mother. She kept contact with her Sisters and made more women friends each year. As the years tumbled by, one after another, she gradually came to understand that her mom really knew what she was talking about. As time and nature work their changes and their mysteries upon a woman, Sisters are the mainstays of her life.

After more than 50 years of living in this world, here is what I've learned:

- Time passes. - Life happens. - Distance separates. - Children grow up - Jobs come and go. - Careers end. - Love waxes and wanes - Colleagues forget favors. - Men sometimes disappoint. - Hearts ache. - Parents die.

BUT.........

Sisters are there, no matter how much time and how many miles are between you. A girl friend is never farther away than needing her can reach.

When you have to walk that lonesome valley and you have to walk it by yourself, the women in your life will be on the valley's rim, cheering you on, praying for you, pulling for you, intervening on your behalf, and waiting with open arms at the valley's end.

Sometimes, they will even break the rules and walk beside you.

Or come in and carry you out.

Girlfriends, daughters, granddaughters, daughters-in-law, sisters,
sisters-in-law, mothers, grandmothers, aunties, nieces, cousins, and extended family, all bless our life!

The world wouldn't be the same without women, and neither would I.

When we began this adventure called womanhood, we had no idea of the incredible joys or sorrows that lay ahead.

Nor did we know how much we would need each other.

Every day, we need each other still.

Pass this on to all the women who help make your life meaningful.

I just did

My baby told me that he loved me this morning!

2006-04-20T11:03:00.000-07:00

I have a toddler that is 2 1/2 years old. He is so fun right now. He is talking up a storm and picking things up really quickly. This morning after I finished dressing him and getting him ready for daycare I told him that I loved him. And he said for the very first time "I love you" mommy.

I felt I needed to record this as he is good at repeating everything else but had not yet told me that he loved me --this really warmed my heart! Of course he loves me I know that--it is nice to hear it though:)

Here are a couple of pictures of my cutie from our vacation.

Oh and yes this is a knitting blog. So Here is an update on my so loved addiction. Yesterday, I finally got over to Atelier Yarns - 1945 Divisadero Street. I had a doctors appt in the area and decided to pay them a visit. I looked at everything in the store and they had a good supply of basic items and some nice yarns. A couple of things grabbed my attention that I could not part with: 2 antique purse frames --absolutely gorgeous (one copper with crystals and one pewter), a sushi wallet kit by Pick UP sticks: http://sticksknits.com/togo.html and a pair of suede slipper soles and lornas laces in the Tuscany colorway--to make my little boy some slippers. I tried uploading a picture (appending it to this post and could not get it to work. Sorry.

Happy Knitting everyone:)

Just got back from vacationing in Cancun - Mexico

2006-04-18T14:26:00.000-07:00

I just got back mid last week and I am getting back into the swing of things at home and at work. I absolutely loved my vacation. If you noticed, I updated my Avatar so that she is clearly vacationing on the beach!

I made a number of purchases for this vacation among them was my beautiful Offhand designs knitting bag in a Cruelle knitted/embroidered design. Of course, I had to get the matching Tia hand clutch. They both served me well on this vaction. I highly recommend them as they are ultimate in style and knitting design.

Here is a picture of my gorgeous bag and some really cute knitting needles. The bag I purchased at Imagiknit in San francisco and the needles I got at KPixie.

Project Color Swap - Questionaire & Answers

2006-04-15T16:20:00.000-07:00

Are you crafty?
Yes. I have been getting into painting, card making and of course more challenging knitting projects lately.

Would you enjoy things like: Buttons, ribbons and
embellishments?
Ribbons and Embellishments would be nice.

Do you dye your own wool? No.

Do you like to scrapbook or make homemade cards? Yes. I like scrapbooking and need to dedicate more time to this outside of knitting which comes first. Card making is fun too.

What are your favorite scents?
Flowers, Citrus, Fresh Scents.

Do you like stationary and cards?
Yes.

Do you like to sew or embroider items?
Have not tried embroidery yet. Only sew when I absolutely have too.

Do you like beads?
Yes.

What kind of candy do you like?
Sours, Caramels, Nuts and Chews, exotic Chocolate, gummy bears, chocolates with nuts and cookies. No cremes!

Do you like hand lotions or soaps?
Yes.

Do you like to wear costume jewelry? Necklace,
earrings, bracelets etc.
Yes.

Do you like to make/or use stitch markers?
I use stitch markers.

Do you collect anything?
Hearts, Jewlery boxes, yarn, jewlery.

Do you have any allergies?: Smoke, food, fiber, pets,
etc. No. My husband is allergic to pet dander.

Do you have any hobbies?
Knitting and Card Making. Also, love watching movies and listening to music.

Do you like scented or unscented candles?
Scented.

Are you a fiber snob?
Absolutely!

Do you like to play cards or board games?
Yes. With my sister from time to time. My son is too young.

Do you like neon colors, pastel, light or medium
ranges in the color of the month?
I like all colors pretty much.

Do you like kitchen magnets or key rings?
Yes.

Do you like picture frames?
Yes.

Project Spectrum Post Card Swap - April

2006-04-15T15:58:00.001-07:00

I finely got around to creating my post card --I had to get it all together after returning from Cancun. It took a little while to unwind and come back down from the vacation high! Here is a snapshot of my postcard that I sent out to Lynn in Jacksonville FL.

Project Spectrum - April "Yellow & Orange"

2006-04-14T14:22:00.000-07:00

Hello,
Its been a while since my last post. This of course is due to the fact that I have been on vaction for about 2 weeks and was busy prior to that trying to get everything ready --so that we could go on vaca (my husband, little boy and I).

Here a few items that I knit up: The yellow and blue "Cal Bears" hat I knit prior to going on vaca and the heart scarf during vacation (mostly on the plane to and from Cancun). I am realy pleased with the way the scarf came out. Especially the fringe-I incorporated Murano glass heart beads --I actually strung the wires through myself to make the loops that would hold the yarn:) Pretty Crafty Eh... Project Spectrum is definitely pushing me to be more and more creative!

Upon my return, I got to open many special packages from orders I had placed prior to leaving. Among these, there were several awesome books! Mason Dixon Knitting, Weekend Knitting, Knitting Rules and the Knit It greeting cards booklet. What fun!

Here are some pictures. Oh--and take a close look at my completed post card for Project Spectrum. This is on its way to my postcard swap pal Lynn who lives in Jacksonville FL.

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Two more March Items - 1 left to go

2006-03-24T11:28:00.000-08:00

Hello,

Its been a few days since my last post. I've been a teensy bit busy working on a Textures 2 scarf from Fleece Artist & Hand Maiden Yarn--It came out gorgeous similar to Loopy and Luscious! I also, whipped up a hat that I tried to match up for a set. These are going to go live with my friend Debbie. I hope she likes them.

Red Furry bag is complete

2006-03-10T08:10:00.000-08:00

Wow, I completed this bag in no time... It took me longer to get back hear and post than to actually complete the bag. In my opinion it came out really cute. I used Jaeger Damask 2 skeins and 2 balls of Red Fur also by Jaeger. This is my first completed item for project spectrum. My second item a heart scarf is almost done. Should be done by tonight.

Then I will be on to my next two projects. I have decided to knit up a Clapotis as featured on knitty.com (exact color too. I looked at the other options and like this colorway the best --the bittersweet). Additionally, I will be whipping up a Textures 2 Scarf in Berry Romance a beautiful combination of pink, fuchia and red.

I must say, these may be the most absolutely luxurious yarns I have come across. I can't stopp oggling them. Here are some shots of my work in progress and the new yarns.

Project Spectrum

2006-03-06T11:07:00.000-08:00

I've just recently joined Project Spectrum that Lolly is hosting. This going to be a whole lot of fun. Lolly has prepared a color theme for each month and for March we are working with red and pink. I have it all planned out-- For the red I will be knitting up a funky furry bag with Jaeger natural fleece and red fur. For the pink, I will be making a pretty heart themed scarf that utilized 3 yarns: a silver shimmer, pink eyelash, and cotton stria by Manos. Here are some pictures of the yarn.

I Did It!!!!! I finished my Armwarmers B4 the deadline!

2006-02-26T08:58:00.000-08:00

Yeah, I spent pretty much all afternoon knitting up my second armwarmer and completed a whole day ahead of the deadline! Yipeee!!! I am so excited as i picked up a number of new skills on this small project: using double pointed needles to knit up the whole garment, cable cast on method, cabling... All foundation skills for good knitting:)

I will post pictures soon.

One more day to go--Will I finish on time?

2006-02-25T13:02:00.000-08:00

Well here we are the 10th day of the knitting olympics. I have one more arm warmer to knit and tons to do around home. I would have been done early this morning had I not made a huge mistake on my second armwarmer! I unfortunately did not follow directions closely enough and I had omitted the 1 1/2 stiches of rib at the beginning of the armwarmer. Of course it was not until I set them side by side to look at the color scheme that I realized that they looked different. Oh no! Of course I had to rip it back and start over this morning and I only have 24 hours left to go!!!

Let the Games Begin!

2006-02-10T09:41:00.000-08:00

The Knitting Olympics Officially begin today! Yipee!!!

I am so excited I can hardly wait to cast on tonight as the torch is lit in Torino Italy. Not to mention, that there will be 4000+ Knitters around the world casting on with me (well virtually anyway). Yes thats right we are all joining the Yarn Harlot in the Winter Olympics Knitalong that she is hosting. I will be casting on to knit my "Hurry up Spring" Armwarmers. Once again, these will be a challenge for me as they requie, double pointed needles, cabeling and a thumb gusset. All of which are new to me. Here is a picture of some that someone else knit up.

Knitting Olympics Start Tomorrow

2006-02-09T13:43:00.000-08:00

I've joined the knitting olympics. I cant wait to get started tomorrow night. I am planning on knitting up some arm warmers from Stitch and Bitch Nation. They look great in the picture let see how they turn out. This is a challenge for me since its the first time I will be knitting something other than a scarf, blanket, hat, or bag. The first time to work in thumbs and cabling. Yahoo!

On the Sticks

2006-02-07T13:47:00.000-08:00

1) Caleb's Toddler Blanket: A nice snuggle blanket for my baby
2) Black Plouf Garter Lace Scarf for Claudia at work - yarn is from ArtFbers
3) My so called scarf this one is for me --used Debbie Bliss Soho

To go on the Sticks soon:
1) Chemo cap for Knitting Pals by the Bay
2) "Hurry Up spring Armwarmers" featured in Stitch and Bitch Nation using Noro Kureyon colorway 95

Adding and Updating to my Knitting blog

2006-01-26T10:42:00.000-08:00

Made a few changes today and added a cute graphic to represent me

Getting Started - My first Blog

2006-01-17T15:20:00.000-08:00

Hello,

I have just created this blog and can say that I am new to to world of blogging. Here's to a new fun adventure!