theatreknitter

App Review --- Yarn -U

2011-12-05T12:58:00.001-05:00

I must first apologize to the creator of this app. She approached me almost 3 weeks ago asking for this review, and it's not that her app is difficult to use, it's that I have lacked the "g" key on my home laptop. I thought it would be great to blog on the ipad, but that's no fun at all. so I had to find time at work to sneak in a blog post, so here I am. WHEW!!!!

So I was approached to review an app, and I was pretty psyched about that. I review books, yarns, patterns, why not an app?

the App is called Yarn U and is available on I tunes for $2.99. If you are the type of person that needs your yarn information at your fingertips, and finds searching Ravelry on your smart phone to be a bit of a challenge, this app is well worth the cost.

This App allows you to search yarns by weight, name, or brand. It seems that they have just about all of the yarns accounted for, though my eye could have missed some.

Once you find the yarn you are looking for, you can get more information on that particular yarn. It gives you some history, then the basics (Brand, Weight, Stitch Gauge, fiber content, and yardage). It also does a good job of listing pros and cons. This is important because not every yarn is perfect. there is also a comment section where you can see other peoples feedback on the yarn.

What would I wish of this App? I'm probably asking alot, but i'll give it a shop. So I know that I would likely be using this app while I am out yarn shopping. If I am doing online shopping, I wouldn't be picking up my phone, I would be going online to Ravelry. That being said, I would like this app to have a "locate me" feature, so that if you are looking up a yarn you could see Local Yarn stores that carry the yarn. Right now, it only lists websites. It also lists online prices (ie: yarn.com which is typically lower priced than the LYS)

I know, this is probably a dream, but wouldn't it be awesometo look up "Brooklyn tweeds shelter" and see that "YAY it's at the shop that's two miles away!!!! instead of. . . oh, 3 days for shipping, what do I cast on in the meantime.

All in all, I can totally see the value of this app, and I am sure I will put it to good use on my phone.

Yarn Along 11/11

2011-11-11T06:21:00.001-05:00

From small things

~ Two of my favorite things are knitting and reading, and the evidence of this often shows up in my photographs. I love seeing what other people are knitting and reading as well. So, what are you knitting or crocheting right now? What are you reading? Take a photo and share it either on your blog or on Flickr. Leave a link below to share your photo with the rest of us! ~

I Just acquired a Kindle, an couldn't be happier. I just finished Reading "In Leah's Wake." I had high hopes for this book. the story was great. I wasn't loving the writing style, but stuck out hte book because I liked the story. the ending was a little to "neat" for my liking. But it kept my attention, and I never put it down, so I guess that is saying a lot.

As for the project, Koolhaas. This is one of my favorite patterns. I have made it a number of times (I think this could be my 4th. I am working on this one for a co-workers of my Step mothers that is going through Chemo. I LOVE this hat. It is a great pattern and just perfection.

Why We kit Wednesday - Liz

2011-11-02T06:30:00.000-04:00

Thank you again for indulging my little sociology project. This weeks Why We knit comes to us from Liz.

Why do I knit? Hmm. I think that answer has changed over the years. When my kids were small and I was a SAH mom, knitting saved my sanity. I needed something to keep my brain working. Now, knitting means friends, getting together. It's the best way for me to use my creative instincts and create something useful and beautiful.

Well, let's break this one down. .

First things first, I have an amazing admiration for Stay at Home mom's. I don't know how you do it. I don't have children of my own, I am a proud aunt who enjoys spending time with my nephew, introducing him to new music (he's a big Ben Folds Fan and calls Josh Groban "Uncle Josh"). But when I am done,I give him back to his happily waiting mom. I am so glad that knitting can provide some sense of sanity to stay at home moms.

Friends: I would like to tell you how I met Liz. It was my first time at Rhinebeck and nutmegknitter and I had driven up to New York, and we went to the Ravelry Party.(Remember the party where they called the cops? Yup, that one). We had parked the car and were walking towards the crowd of crazy crafters. We met Liz. Neither Becca or I are ones to randomly walk up to a stranger and start a conversation, but through knitting we immediately knew that we had something in common. Now when I see another knitter or crocheter I immediately have something to say. I can ask about the yarn, the project, or in general we know something about each-other. It is a fabulous ice breaker.

Making pretty things: I can lose myself on the internet finding beautiful patterns to knit. I love how a ball of string can turn into something beautiful. The photos in this blog post are some of the beautiful things that Liz has created. Thanks Liz for taking part in this project.

So tell me. . . .

Why do you knit?

Cooking

2011-10-30T12:46:00.000-04:00

Along with knittign I really enjoy cooking. I have recently discovered canning. It was a nasty weather day (Snow in October, seriously!!!)

Today I decided to make Cranberry Mustard.The recipe is from. Aside from screwing up the order of the recipe, I thik it came out really great.

AFI Top 100 Films

2011-10-29T20:15:00.001-04:00

I have been determined to get through the AFI top 100 films for SUCH a long time. I will keep track of my progress here.

Here is the list: I have crossed off films that I have already see in the past. I may watch them again, but let's try to make this easier.

1	~~CITIZEN KANE~~ FYI . . . it's a sled	1941
2	THE GODFATHER	1972
3	CASABLANCA	1942
4	RAGING BULL	1980
5	~~SINGIN' IN THE RAIN~~ DUH, of course I have seen this one.	1952
6	GONE WITH THE WIND	1939
7	LAWRENCE OF ARABIA	1962
8	~~SCHINDLER'S LIST~~ Saw it in the theatre	1993
9	VERTIGO	1958
10	~~THE WIZARD OF OZ~~ Step mom's Favorite	1939
11	CITY LIGHTS	1931
12	THE SEARCHERS	1956
13	STAR WARS	1977
14	PSYCHO	1960
15	2001: A SPACE ODYSSEY	1968
16	SUNSET BLVD.	1950
17	THE GRADUATE	1967
18	THE GENERAL	1927
19	ON THE WATERFRONT	1954
20	~~IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE~~ Moms Fave	1946
21	CHINATOWN	1974
22	SOME LIKE IT HOT	1959
23	THE GRAPES OF WRATH	1940
24	E.T. THE EXTRA-TERRESTRIAL	1982
25	TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD	1962
26	MR. SMITH GOES TO WASHINGTON	1939
27	HIGH NOON	1952
28	~~ALL ABOUT EVE~~ This movie has such amazing one liners.	1950
29	DOUBLE INDEMNITY	1944
30	APOCALYPSE NOW	1979
31	THE MALTESE FALCON	1941
32	THE GODFATHER PART II	1974
33	ONE FLEW OVER THE CUCKOO'S NEST	1975
34	SNOW WHITE AND THE SEVEN DWARFS	1937
35	ANNIE HALL	1977
36	THE BRIDGE ON THE RIVER KWAI	1957
37	THE BEST YEARS OF OUR LIVES	1946
38	THE TREASURE OF THE SIERRA MADRE	1948
39	DR. STRANGELOVE	1964
40	~~THE SOUND OF MUSIC~~ So many family memories of this movie.	1965
41	KING KONG	1933
42	BONNIE AND CLYDE	1967
43	MIDNIGHT COWBOY	1969
44	THE PHILADELPHIA STORY	1940
45	SHANE	1953
46	IT HAPPENED ONE NIGHT	1934
47	A STREETCAR NAMED DESIRE	1951
48	REAR WINDOW	1954
49	INTOLERANCE	1916
50	~~THE LORD OF THE RINGS: THE FELLOWSHIP OF THE RING~~ fairly confident that i saw this on opening night.	2001
51	WEST SIDE STORY	1961
52	TAXI DRIVER	1976
53	THE DEER HUNTER	1978
54	MAS*H	1970
55	NORTH BY NORTHWEST	1959
56	JAWS	1975
57	ROCKY	1976
58	THE GOLD RUSH	1925
59	NASHVILLE	1975
60	DUCK SOUP	1933
61	SULLIVAN'S TRAVELS	1941
62	AMERICAN GRAFFITI	1973
63	CABARET	1972
64	NETWORK	1976
65	THE AFRICAN QUEEN	1951
66	RAIDERS OF THE LOST ARK	1981
67	WHO'S AFRAID OF VIRGINIA WOOLF?	1966
68	UNFORGIVEN	1992
69	TOOTSIE	1982
70	A CLOCKWORK ORANGE	1971
71	~~SAVING PRIVATE RYAN~~ Saw is in the theatre. I was amazed by the opening sequence. I never thought you could hear underwater. the sounds were incredible.	1998
72	~~THE SHAWSHANK REDEMPTION~~ I LOVE this movie. I can't watch it enough.	1994
73	BUTCH CASSIDY AND THE SUNDANCE KID	1969
74	~~THE SILENCE OF THE LAMBS~~ I know most lines i this movie, and it still freaks me out. I love it.	1991
75	IN THE HEAT OF THE NIGHT	1967
76	~~FORREST GUMP~~ I remember seeing this movie in the theatre, and I still love it.	1994
77	ALL THE PRESIDENT'S MEN	1976
78	MODERN TIMES	1936
79	THE WILD BUNCH	1969
80	THE APARTMENT	1960
81	SPARTACUS	1960
82	SUNRISE	1927
83	TITANIC	1997
84	EASY RIDER	1969
85	A NIGHT AT THE OPERA	1935
86	PLATOON	1986
87	12 ANGRY MEN	1957
88	BRINGING UP BABY	1938
89	~~THE SIXTH SENSE~~ creepy...........	1999
90	SWING TIME	1936
91	SOPHIE'S CHOICE	1982
92	GOODFELLAS	1990
93	THE FRENCH CONNECTION	1971
94	PULP FICTION	1994
95	THE LAST PICTURE SHOW	1971
96	DO THE RIGHT THING	1989
97	BLADE RUNNER	1982
98	YANKEE DOODLE DANDY	1942
99	~~TOY STORY~~ love it., love it, love it. and I feel all three films should tie for this umber because the trilogy is just perfect.	1995
100	BEN-HUR	1959

Weekend WIP : The Circus tent hat. . (AKA the Joy of Short Rows)

2011-10-29T12:09:00.002-04:00

I discovered the joy of short row knitting when I made my first multidirectional scarf I Love this pattern, and if you have never tried short row knitting, this is the perfect start. I have re knit this pattern multiple times, and have loved it every time.

I went on Ravelry to find some interesting hat patterns so that I could challenge myself a bit while working on Pat Pat's hats . I came across the Short Row Sideways Hat on Ravelry. This pattern was designed by Kristi Porter at the Domesticsphere. Be sure to check out her patterns, they really are great. So now I give you the
Circus Tent Hat.

I have had this particular skein of yarn for so long. I remember when nutmegknitter and I were at her house and she was being incredibly generous with her stash. She got this yarn from the All Raveled up Sock Club from Blue Hands Fibers on Etsy. We were both amazed how this particular yarn wound up into the cake. It was PLAID!!! Sure enough, it was just as fun to knit. I love how the playful colors made a joyful hat. I had to give it a fun name.

I stuck with the pattern for this hat, and I got a great preemie hat with just a little bit of sock yarn. If you are new to my blog you will discover that while I LOVE sock yarn, I am not a sock knitter. This sock yarn made an adorable preemie hat, and it is even soft enough to wear. I can't wait to donate it.

Why We Knit Wednesday-- Nutmegknitter

2011-10-26T06:10:00.000-04:00

Thank you all for your kind comments on my post last week, it was a wonderful homecoming to my blog. I am intrigued by this question, because as we all know you can buy socks at walmart, sweaters at Old Navy, and hats at Target. . . Why knit?

I hope to have visitors to my Blog with their responses to this questions. We will start with Nutmegknitter. She is not only a fantastic knitter, she is also a fabulous mom and most importantly to me a wonderful friend. In her house, I am known as "aunt Betsy, your knitting friend" I don't know if I am allowed another catagory, but I'll take it.

Why do you knit?
It makes me slow down and focus, one St at a time. It is relaxing and quiets my brain.

Couldn't have said it better myself. She is a great one for finding just the right thing to say. I have a large and sometimes overwhelming family. When I am without my knitting, or a spindle, I feel awkward and I never really know what to say with them. With my knitting, I am relaxed, the chaos around me doesn't seem so bad. No matter how fast you knit, and some people are pretty speedy, knitting takes individual stitches that must be crafted individually. Each one must be in the right place, or the pattern is lost.

Thank you Becca for being the guinea pig at this project, so now I ask you. . .

Why do you knit?

Work/train knitting

2011-10-24T15:40:00.000-04:00

I openly admit to my knitting addiction. I have knitting with me all of the time, I get nervous when I don't have knitting, I think about knitting, I eye patterns when on the train and think "I wonder if I could figure out that pattern?".

I typically have multiple patterns on the needles. I tend to have something challenging (maybe involving lace, cables, or (GASP) the need to keep a proper Gauge. I always have a work.train project. I am fortunate that I can knit, and sometimes spin, at work. This is a huge bonus, I am aware of this. I work in software support and I spend a lot of time on the phone. That means I can easily pick up my knitting and work on a project. Train/work knitting should be carefully planned. It shouldn't involve counting, it should be easily picked up and started, and just as easily put down.

Thankfully, I LOVE knitting hats!!! Hats are my travel knitting. Many people have socks, I always have a hat.Apologies for the crappy photo quality.

I was able to complete the hat pictures in one night. (While meeting the yarn harlot, more on that later as she deserves her own post).

This hat, and the one in progress, will be donated to Pat Pat's hats. I find hats to be wonderful travel knitting. They are easy, fun, versatile, and can be knit with almost every yarn. I enjoy adding little patterns to make them more interesting. Hats also give me a chance to try out my own pattern ideas.

Yarn: Farmhouse Yarns I'm Allergic to Wool. I've always enjoyed this yarn. It is soft, has great texture, and makes awesome hats!

Weekend WIP: Epiphany Ishbel

2011-10-23T08:00:00.000-04:00

I decided to take a break from hats, and get started on some Holiday knitting. I don't know that I have ever knit something for my Step mom, so I decided to make her an Ishbel. I Love this pattern, I have made it before and I love mine.

I am making the scarf out of Cascade Epiphany. This yarn is Heavenly, that's all I can say. I just love it.

The only problem, I've become too much of a perfectionist, and I can't seem to get it in my head to keep track of my stitch count. So here I am, after frogging the lace for the third time, working on the Ishbel. I am finding this pattern much more challenging than the last time I worked on it. Maybe I need this knitting challenge, but seriously? it's holiday knitting season folks, I need my knitting brain back! Not more autopilot knitting.

I purchases the Yarn at Minds Eye Yarn in Cambridge, MA. I cannot say enough wonderful things about Lucy at Minds Eye. When I started my spinning wheel shopping (Yes, I got one) I went to visit Lucy. She sat with me for almost 2 hours. I didn't end up buying my wheel from her (some day I will have a bigger place and I will get my Ashford Traditional, which was SO much fun to knit with).

Anyway, if you are visiting Boston, check out this spot. It's wonderful. I really love it and don't get there often enough. It is directly off the red line in porter square. A great spot to visit for knitters andNon-Knitters alike.

FO friday: Irish Hiking Cowl

2011-10-21T07:04:00.008-04:00

The Irish Hiking scarf is one of my favorite patterns, I have always thought it was simply perfect. I wanted to make a cowl for my sister for Christmas, so I decided to modify this pattern into a cowl. I couldn't have been more thrilled with the outcome of this project. from the color, to the fit, to the yarn. I was so pleased.

Yarn: madelinetish Baltic

Purchased at: either webs or Windsor button (multiple skeins, multiple shops)

Buttons: purchased at seed stitch a fine yarn in Salem, Ma

Knit for: my sister Jennifer

Introducing Pat Pats Hats!!

2011-10-20T16:00:00.006-04:00

Introducing Pat Pats Hats!!!!!

Okay, so in yesterdays post I mentioned knitting when I found out my nephew was sick. Well, here it goes. . .

On Aug. 30th my nephew was brought to Yale New Haven Children's Hospital Emergency Room. For a few days he had been complaining of a "boo boo " on his head and he was vomiting. The Doctor told my sister that it was likely a stomach bug when the symptoms presented, unfortunately, he wasn't getting better. The doctor told my sister to take him to the ER.

The Doctors int he ER were amazing, and immediately took Patrick into an MRI (he will never be an astronaut, he now hates space ships). The MRI revealed a mass on the back of Patrick's brain.

The next day, Patrick went into surgery to remove 3 brain tumors. We were informed that these tumors were malignant, and Patrick had Medulloblastoma.

We know that Patrick, after everything, will be okay. He will be enduring 6 months of Chemo to ensure that there are no lingering cancer cells, but in the end this little man is going to grow up and hopefully never remember this experience.

As a knitter, the first thing that I did when I found out about Patrick's impending surgery, I knit a hat. Then i found out about chemo, I knit another one. What else was I supposed to do, I'm a knitter and my nephew is bald. It's the PERFECT excuse to stash dive and cast on.

I decided that rather than only knitting for Patrick,I could knit for others (also, the stress of the situation made me forget just how big Patrick has gotten in his almost 3 years, and one of the hats was CLEARLY meant for a preemie). This got me thinking. . . . What if I asked people to donate hats to the hospital?

Thus Pat Pat's Hats was born

On January 6th 2012 (a few weeks after Patrick's 3rd birthday) we will be donating hats to Yale New Haven Children's Hospital. I am looking for hats of all shapes and sizes. . the softer the better. These hats will be donated to the hospital so that the children receiving treatment can take a hat home if they need one.

How much does it take to knit one hat? barely a skein?maybe a day or two?I know that you can do it, and these kids are sure to appreciate it.

I need to personally thank nutmegknitter and the yarn harlot who have helped spread the word about this project.

I hope to be able to donate hats every year, so keep those needles and hooks moving!!!

if you would like more details about the project you can check out our facebook page, or you can email me at
patpats.hats at gmail.com

Also, the Ravelry Group has been created
http://www.ravelry.com/groups/pat-pats-hats

Why We Knit Wednesday

2011-10-19T21:08:00.001-04:00

photo.jpg, a photo by theatreknitter on Flickr.

I can't believe that I have been gone from my blog for so long. Last night I had a fabulous experience and realized that I have been gone for too long. This could be what is missing from my life. So I am back. More on Last night in another Post, tonight I am thinking about a question. . .

Why do we knit?
Clearly there are easier ways to get a scarf, a hat, a pair of socks, a sweater, some lace. . . So why do we do it. I asked this question on Plurk and Twitter, and I will ask it to you. .

Why do you knit?

Why do I knit? To Cope.

I can personally remember the fist day I purchased needles. Nope, I really can. It was Sat. Sept 8th 2001. I remember this because I returned home from Michael's Crafts in High Point North Carolina with a pair of needles and a skein of yarn. I'm fairly certain it was pink. Right when I got home I was informed that my Boppie was dying in CT. I went through the next couple of days, I wandered around hoping that I would get home in time to see him, and learning how to knit. Then on Tuesday Sept 11, 2011. . . well we all know what happened that day.. . but I wandered through that day trying to figure out how to get home, because my Boppie had mere days to live.

For my early knitting projects I remember a pink scarf, I remember a hat, I remember a Christmas stocking. But I will always remember the day I purchased my first set of needles, and where I was.

Throughout the years, knitting ultimately became something that I always had with me, and over the past year it has helped me cope with terribly stressful situations.
This past year. . . . well. . . It has been awful. I won't beat around the bush about that.

When my aunt was passing away last October I was working on some blankets. The intention was for them to be given to my cousin and her new twins. unfortunately I don't knit very well when incredibly stressed. I have those blankets still, and I am reminded of the love that was surrounding my aunt during her last moments of life.

Sadly I don't remember what I was knitting while my Grandmother was passing in January, but I do have the February Lady Sweater that I knit for her as an 80th birthday gift. I loved knitting that sweater, and I think she enjoyed having it. Well, at least I hope she did. I wear the sweater with pride now. It doesn't quite fit, and it's a bit pilled, but I don't care.

This year, in early August, I received a call that my father fell off a cliff. . . no really he did. . . he fell 15 feet into a ravine. He broke multiple bones, but is alive and walking. When I was taking the train to meet him. . . . I had knitting.

And when I found out that my nephew was having brain cancer, I knit a hat (see more about that project in another post.

So why do I knit. To cope. sometimes it's stress, sometimes it's family situations, sometimes it's death, sometimes it's coping after a bad day.

Why do I knit?

to Cope

Why do you knit?

Book Review

2010-11-24T15:19:00.004-05:00

I don't think that I have ever attempted a book review before,so here it goes. While on the knitters review retreat I got to head over to Story Publishing. While every moment of the retreat is a highlight, this is way up there on my list.

I, along with many others on the retreat, snagged a copy of

Sock Yarn One-Skein Wonders: 101 Patterns That Go Way Beyond Socks!

Now those of you who have visited my blog in the past are possibly aware of my love of sock yarn, but also my ambivalence to knitting socks. This book is FABULOUS!!! Of the 101 patterns,I believe that there are over 50 that I cannot wait to cast on. I will likely start with a few hats, thought there are adorable toddler items as well. All of the scarves are fantastic, and lets not forget about the socks. I may actually have to make a pair.

While this is of course a great library borrow, I would HIGHLY advise you to put this book on your Christmas list.

I hope everyone that checks out this book agrees with my reviews.

Central park hoodie

2010-11-18T22:40:00.001-05:00

So this is my new beginnings project. So far this is a wonderful relationship. I anticipate a short separation to go towards Christmas knitting, but I am sure that absence will make the heart grow fonder.

At the retreat (the only place where I get lucky. . . . )

2010-11-15T20:54:00.000-05:00

Finally we arrived at the Williams Inn. Entering the retreat is quite an experience. A lobby filled with knitters.

We checked in and went to our room. We were happily greeted with our goodie bags. Notice the socks that rock, dirty water dye works, beautiful cards, and there was chocolate as well.

We made our first trip to the stash room, a frequently visited spot at the knitters review. I found my first skein of Lorna's laces. (remember that, it's a theme)

After dinner and stash room it was off to meet and greet. We all discussed our favorite yarns, possibly the one that we would want to marry. I mentioned my hand spun bamboo. I chose this yarn because bamboo is supposed to be lucky. The retreat is the only weekend where I am lucky (remember, I won the retreat last year and I got a door prize of kangaroo dyer)

On SAturday it was time for more stash lounge and classes. I took a class with Clara and it was fabulous. I learned so much about different types of wool and yarns and why different yarns work better for projects. This was fantastic.

After classes it was off to another wonderful meal and then the marketplace. SO MANY amazing yarns. Spirit train fiber works, briar rose, Quince and Co. I was bring very reserved with my shopping, but two new spindles found their way into my bag. a Blue denim pine kundert and my Katherine, a greensleeves 0.8 oz.

Then it was off to Story publishing. 50% off books? yeah, you keep me away. I got 101 patterns for sock yarn, 2 cook books, one book for sis, and another sock book. WOO HOO.

We made one more trip to the stash room wher eI had a lovely chat with Cat Bordhi. Yup, you heard me. She was just hanging out preparing for her bed time story and she reccommended a couple of patterns for me (like I would not take her advise)

After that it was off to dinner, then story time with cat. Clara gave out some door prizes, and I found more lorna's laces. Yup, more.

On Sunday it was yarn church where were were joined with a project. I chose the central park hoodie. Then it was home.

Because the retreat is the only place I was lucky, this lasted with me for the drive home. my car had issues while driving home and it died. Clearly my retreat luck was still with me because someone from the retreat drove past me, and she drove me back to Lexington so that I could get home.

Yup, only on the retreat.

Checking in, and returning from retreat

2010-11-14T19:09:00.002-05:00

Yeah, It has been awhile. I know that. I apologize for the disappearing act. It has been a busy fall. Work is crazy, enjoying my new place, and lots of traveling back and forth to CT to be with Family.

Ultimately there is lots of happiness in this post, so we will get the sad stuff out of the way. On Oct. 26th we lost my aunt Candy. This was an extremely difficult loss for everyone in out family. We will miss her more than anyone can imagine. Everyone in the family i grieving in their own way. We all have our moments, but each day does get easier.

I have the pleasure to escape reality this weekend and enjoy the knitters review retreat in Williamstown, MA. This is my second year enjoying the retreat, and it was even better this year because I was able to bring nutmegknitter along with me.

On the way up to the retreat I stopped at Wonderful things in Great Barrington, MA. holy yarn batman!!!!! This shop has everything. I couldn't believe it. After an extensive tour of the shop I came across a yarn that I had never come across before, and left with a skein of Cascade Rustic. It is lovely and I am anxious to put it on some needles.

After Wonderful things I went off to meet Becca at Colorful Stitches in Lennox, MA. This is a great shop with lots of yarns. I must comment on their pattern selection. It was FABULOUS!!!!! I have rarely seen a shop with the number of books and patterns. They also have a great selection of ribbon (frequently lacking at yarn shops)
I left the shop with a fabulous book that includes an awesome afghan.

I am catching up on work right now, so I am looking forward to telling you more later.

What I've been doing

2010-06-14T06:57:00.001-04:00

I haven't had a while lot of knitting inspriation. I have been knitting baby hats for my cousin and swifter covers for te house. I also have a few small projects that I've been working on.

Though yesterday I picked up my spindle. I do enjoy spinning. I am looking forward to getting better at it as time goes on. I am excited to try plying also
.

I have no idea about what this roving is made of. I foud it I the stash room at the knitters review retreat. It was quite a find.

What I've been up to

2010-06-10T07:33:00.002-04:00

Hey all,

Well life has been a bit hectic lately. I unfortunately have not had a chance to focus on any big knitting projects. I am focusing on a few other things in my life right now, and that means that it is simple knitting projects. For instance.

1. New House: Trying to get everything in order and fabulous.
2. Focus: I have been having a lot of trouble focusing at work, that being said I have tried to make some lifestyle changes to help with that. These changes include no caffine after my morning coffee (have you met me, i tend to have diet coke in my hand at all times) also no sugar during the day. Yeah. I also love sweets.
3. Food choices: I am not one who is known for eating well. Let's face it, I eat for crap. I love fast food, I love junk food, and in general I love food. I am hoping that this summer I can REALLY get into some better eating habits. Making lunch and eating breakfast really helps, but it is really tough. To some people, good food choices comes naturally. Not so much for me.
4. Being a bit greener: Taking a not from nutmegknitter I am trying to be a bit more green. I am trying to re-use daily items rather than toss things away willy nilly.

This brings my next knitting project, swifter covers.

It's nothing fancy. Just some kitchen cotton (stash busting) and I used the Baby Genius Burp Cloth from Mason Dixon.

In general, things are great. I am looking forward to getting my yarn organized and in it's bins. The yarn is still boxed because I would like to complete this organization all at one time.

Well, that's pretty much it for me.
How about you?

Another hat

2010-05-26T12:55:00.001-04:00

This is another hat.

I cast on 60 sts using a 2color cast on with 10.5 needles

I knit up the hat with the working color on size 8s. Then once it was done, I picked up the sts on the edge with the size 8s.

I know one row, the increased every third sts on the next row. I repeate this 2 times and got a super cute ruffle.

I would use more rows on the brim to get a true brim, but loving the ruffle.

Farmhouse yarns, I forget which one. I'm allergic to wool? Maybe?

And it's a hat

2010-05-25T15:38:00.001-04:00

Yup, it's a hat.

It's that time

2010-05-25T06:39:00.001-04:00

As many of you know I took part in the Avon walk for breast cancer in Boston last year. This year I crewed again and was again overwhelmed with the strength and unity of the event.

No knitting today, but I have picked up the needles again to whip up a couple of hats for my cousins new baby. Using my farmhouse yarn, and of course loving it. Nothing fancy, just a simple hat. Even summer babies need to keep their heads covered. I am thinking of doing a brimmed one, that would be fun.

Yes I'm knitting

2010-05-18T12:32:00.001-04:00

photo.jpg
Originally uploaded by theatreknitter

Okay, so yes I am knitting. This project has been my train project. It is a simple pair of Vanilla socks. I have been knitting in Magic Loop so they are full of ladders and slipped stitches. They were supposed to be worn for the Avon Walk as my Wellness Village slippers, but sadly that did not work out as planned. So here they sit, almost done. I will have them for my new house.

I was going to try something more fancy, but the yarn has a super stripe to it so I didn't want to mess it up any further.

So here is is, my vanilla socks.

So it has been awhile

2010-05-12T19:22:00.003-04:00

Okay, so yeah. . it has been quite awhile since I last posted. I get that. For the lack of communication I am terribly sorry. I do have the good reasons for being gone.

This house isn't just another pretty face, on Friday it will be mine

I never thought that I would be dong this, especially so soon. I am so excited for the move.

There is also a new man in my life, his name is martin. he is friendly, enjoys long walks, sleeping, ice cream, and is just about over his peeing in the house.

That's right folks, I got a pug.

Llama dashing

2010-02-03T08:16:00.001-05:00

GeoTagged, [N42.45361, E70.96789]

In trying to stick with only have two projects at a time I hve a lair of dashing on the needles for My uncle Keith.

I am using some Berroco blackstone tweed that came in my goodie bag at the retreat. I am also using some llama fiber that my uncle gave me last year for Christmas. They are mill ends, so there was less yarn than I anticipated, and also the llama is a bit rough until they are worn a bit. I am hoping that the berrocco adds some nice texture.

I also used a bit of lambs pride in the cast on.

I am using two techniques
That I have recently learned. Two color long tail cast on and two at a time in circs. I am pretty much in love with both.

Once these are done I will be making fetching for keiths wife, my aunt Debbie. For hers I will use the berroco for the cast on edge, and the cream colored lambs pride along with the llama fiber.

Oh, where did the fiber come from? I'm so glad you asked. My uncle runs an orchard in guilford, Ct called bishops orchards www. Bishopsorchards.com
They have everything from an amazing bakery, fresh fruits and veggies, pick your own fruits (in season) , a winery (oh yes, there is wine), and llamas. Keith started having the fiber spun a couple of years ago. He uses a CT mill in Portland, Ct. So everything is local. Nothing is dyed, and the yarns are named after the llamas. They come in skeins of about 75 yards (I asked I he could put yardage on the bands, and he has to estimate because it comes in by weight). He sells the yarn for $10.95/skein. I am sure I you asked nicely imight be able to hook you up. He currently Sells it in the market, so I could give you an idea about the colors, though there is a bit of variation with each skein because of the Natural quality of the fiber.

Okay, that was my marketing
Moment.

(FYI; I am posting using iPhone so it is reallly tough to spell check, I'll edit
Later)

February lady sweater

2010-02-03T08:01:00.001-05:00

I am making his for granny for her 80 th birthday. How much do I love top down, let Me count the ways...

I probably should hve added a fourth button hole, but it won't get buttoned too often.

The color is an encore colorway that is an amazing dark blue teal.

Highly reccomnend this pattern, totally plan to make it again.

Blocking

2010-01-19T07:33:00.001-05:00

GeoTagged, [N42.56998, E70.86691]

I am so excited about this project. I have learned so many different techniques. As a self taught knitter there were a number of things that I was doing in correctly, and some things that I never learned.

Making this sweater I leaneed:
1. The radical purl, or combination knitting.*
2.mattress stitch.
3. Blocking.
4. Striping
5. How to play with color.

*of note. When I learned how to knit I was knitting through the back loop. I was told it was "wrong." since knitting the "right" way I have never had an even stockinette stitch. Well, since learning combination knitting my stockinette stitch is so much better.

I can't wait to wear this for knitting night on Thursday night.

New Years in Review

2010-01-04T20:55:00.003-05:00

New Years was a great weekend. I took advantage of the weekend to take on a major project. Organizing my yarn closet.

I love my yarn, I really do, but I have no idea how I acquired some of the crap that was in my stash.
Stella wanted to help with the project

This was the yarn all over the Dining room.

Here it is all organized in the closet.
See those pieces of paper? All of the bins are sorted by fiber/weight. I actually listed out each yarn that is in the bin. I feel very organized. I have a whole bunch of stuff listed on Ravelry for sale or trade. Check it out!!!

I had re-started the front of my raving stripes sweater. I finished the front.

and I have already cast on the back.

a Decade in Review.

2009-12-31T11:09:00.005-05:00

As I prepare for New Years eve I realize that this isn't just any new year, it has been a Decade. For me, this has been an extremely busy decade.

It has been such a busy decade that I get things mixed up. I decided to post this anyway. I probably need to look at some show posters and it will better tell me what I was doing. But here is goes.

2000: I rang in the new year in Princeton New Jersey. I was working as an intern for the McCarter Theatre. I bought a brand new car, drove it off the lot with 42 miles on it. I loved that car. In May (on Mothers day) I moved to High Point, NC and started working for the North Carolina Shakespeare Festival.

2001: I was still working for the festival this year. On Sat. Sept 8th I purchased my first set of knitting needles. I remember this because I returned form Michaels to a phone call from my mom saying that my Granfather was very ill. I woke up that Tuesday morning and watched the towers fall. My Grandfather died on Sept 13th. Towards the end of my second season I applied to go on tour with the Utah Shakespearean Festival. I flew out to Utah on Dec. 26th. I returned from tour in May and worked retail while living at home for a few months. This was a rough few months. Not a good time at all. . . . .but in August I got hired at the Arts center of Coastal Carolina in Hilton Head, SC. I packed up the cavalier and moved down to SC. . . . . I worked. . . . a lot.

2002: I was still at the Arts Center, and working A LOT!!! I rang in the new year prepping for Around the World in 80 Days by Mark Brown. I say this because to this day it is possibly one of the best experiences I ever had working on a show. It was fun, challenging, and a true team effort to make that show the amazing success that it was. This was also the year that my brand new car got totaled. Possibly one of the scariest experiences of my life. a really great friend got me through that experience. I owe him a lot, probably not my life. . but he saved me from major injury. I dated someone and got dumped. . . . yeah, that's all I will say about that. I found out that two awesome people were getting married. Oh, lots of knitting. I was getting better at this point.

2003: I was working at the arts center (WOW, still. . . . . . ) I made a big decision for my career. It is probably the only decision that I look back on and say what if? I know deep down it was the right decision, but I sometimes still wonder what would have happened if it had been different. I went to Cape Cod and spent two weeks with a great friend and her little munchkin. I lived in CT with Dad and worked a lot. . . . . I was working at Long Wharf Theatre and also working retail

2004: I was in Becca's wedding. It was so much fun.

2005. I worked my first season with PSF.

2006: I rang in the new year with my mom, my sisters, my step dad, and a great friend from way back when. Mom was going through a chemo treatment. I was working a lot and living at dads. I was teaching, working retail, and working at FTD as a customer service rep. I went down to PSF for the summer for my second season. i went back to CT and worked at a coffee/ice cream shop (This was such a fun job), I was also working for my uncle. I went up to Maine for Jenny and Brians wedding. It was such an amazing weekend with friends, I didn't want it to end.

2007: I rang in the new year in North Carolina. I had just moved down there. Great apartment, crappy roommate. But it was great. I started taking classes again towards my teaching license. Great classes, I love being in school. I went back to PSF for the summer. I went back down to NC and moved into my VERY OWN apartment. I took a job as a box office manager. Lorelai was born. I spent my first Thanksgiving away from my family, I got my cat Hagrid. He was fantastic.
I started this blog.

2008: I rang in the new year driving down to NC with my cat hagrid. I was working hard at my job, and met some really awesome artists as they came across the stage. I quickly saw things going downhill at work. I moved to Boston, I got a great job, I had to give Hagrid away. Patrick was born on Dec. 18th. He is amazing. I went to Rhinebeck, it was awesome.

2009: I rang in 2009 with my sister living in Boston. I visited NC with my mom and saw the 4 bitching babes, I saw lots of concerts, I moved to Salem with my sister (I really like it here), I have spent lots of time with the South End Knitters, I went on the Knitters Review Retreat (Which I WON!!!!!), I spent lots of time with my foster pug Stella. She is awesome. (in fact she' sleeping. I learned how to Spin wool. I crewed my first Avon walk for Breast Cancer. I went to Rhinebeck, I went to CT sheep and Wool, I dies my hair pink.

2010: this year a rang in the new year with my sisters watching Glee!!!

Determined

2009-12-28T18:09:00.001-05:00

I am determined to not get start-itis. I have woderful projects that I would Like for me. These are big projects. I have got to finish my racing stripes. Maybe I can say I will wear it for my birthday at this point.

Then there is the aleinor. That was gifted to me. It will be my first top down project, and i am anxious to get it started.

But on my knitting to do list

1. Organize the knitting closet
2. Catalogue the needles
3. Organize the yarn. Post yarns that I will not use for trade on ravelry.
4. If no trades in a month, it goes to goodwill.

Once that is done I will be happy.

Racing stripes re-start

2009-12-27T18:32:00.001-05:00

So I picked up my racing stripes sweater again. After taking a brief hiatus due to holiday knitting and running out of yarn, I forgot where I left off. I decided to start the front over. I cast on some
More stitches for the body. It calls for 88, I cast on 98. It calls for size 7, I am using size 6.

I'll keep you posted!

Koolhaas

2009-12-24T12:25:00.003-05:00

If you read my blog you know that I am pretty much obsessed with this pattern. I love it. I have made lots of adjustments to the pattern. I think I have found my favorite. The two colored koolhaas.

The green is cascade 220, the blue is blue sky alpaca. The ribbing was done with size 5's, and the chart was done on size 6's. I added one 8 sts repeat (I cast on 116 sts)

I am in love. I hope the recipient feels the same way.
(The little bit of red, that is the lifeline. not sure how it will fit the recipient, so I put in a lifeline so that I could easily re-knit if necessary)

Knitted item stalker

2009-12-22T15:25:00.001-05:00

Hat on the train platform
Originally uploaded by theatreknitter

So I have become a stalker. a stalker of beautiful knitted items. I will admit that I actually asked this person before I too a picture of her hat. Isn't it lovely?

Motor Baby Bunting

2009-12-22T07:07:00.004-05:00

Motor Baby Bunting:
Book: Interweave Knitted Gifts Irresistible Projects to make and give
Yarn: Wool Ease Thick and Quick
Needles: 11 1/2

This is a fantastic pattern. I loved knitting it. This is for a friend who is due in Late January/early February. I gotta give this girl some credit. She does not want people calling her constantly asking if the baby has been born yet, she would rather not tell people her actual due date. And Guess what, it is working.

I used lion brand think and quick yarn.

I am particularly proud of the hood. I did a three needle bind off at the top of the hood. On the back of the hood there are increases, the white yarn made this fantastic pattern. I am really happy.

The only thing that I have to work on is my seaming. I would like that to be better. It works for this project and for the most part I am pleased with that.

This is a wonderful quick knit for any baby shower. I love it. I will totally knit this pattern again.

What was my favorite part?

2009-11-23T13:25:00.003-05:00

First things first, I have very few pictures to show. I made a point of not carrying my phone with me for most of the weekend. I really didn't want to be checking email, and I think I did a good job of it. I used the phone to plurk and post on facebook.

I had misplaced my camera, it has thankfully been found. But MAN what a weekend. I am still winding down from it.

The weekend started picking up two pretty awesome ladies. They had flown in from California. First stop Webs (well Duh)

We did really well. I hadn't planned on spending money. I had to buy needles for my class and then a few things just jumped into my arms. The beautiful Blue o the Right, yup, that's the Madelintosh. mmmmmmmm

I decided to look at some spindles, and got myself a Hi-Lo spindle. I also got some Arucania sock yarn. Totally not my colors at ALL but thank you to Angela for pointing out what the yarn looked like knit up, I am excited to see this take shape.

Also in the Warehouse I managed to find this little number.
A Lantern Moon Sling Bag. It is SOOO fantastic for traveling. I LOVE it for commuting already. For $25? It lacks the bonus pockets that most knitting bags have, but it makes up for that in the shape, the sling shoulder, and the perfectly placed smaller pocket for stashing the wallet.

After Webs it was off to Williamstown (FYI, in the famous words of Into the Woods (slightly modified: When going to Webs, know how to get there (it's easy to miss the street) and eat first! After 2.5 hours we were properly hungry.

Then it was off to the retreat. The drive to WIlliamstown was lovely. It got dark on the drive. Probably a good thing for my nerves. Williamstown is in a valley, and there are hairpin, and I mean DEFINITION of hairpin, turns heading into the valley. Had I been able to see the drop off's, I would have been terrified. Thanks to not being able to see the rocks, having great company, driving a great vehicle (thanks Jen) and taking it slow we got their safely, and just in time for dinner.

The Williams Inn is a LOVELY hotel. the have real KEYS!!!! no key cards here, I love that.

After dinner we gathered our stuff, and headed into our meet and greet.

(Oh yeah, we got goodie bags, I'll share that when I get home tonight, you want visuals for those)

Did i mention how amazing Clara Parks is? Being welcomed by her smiling face was simply amazing.

WE spent the evening hearing about other people's projects and their philosophy's on knitting. I think the Kris's was the most popular (As long as I have yarn to knit with I will live forever, then there was Chris of Briar Rose. . . I'm Dyin till I Die. . . . )

After a long day of travel I decided to turn in after the festivities of the night.

Oh yeah, I visited the stash room. don't worry, I will share pictures there as well.

What was my favorite part of the retreat. . . . .
Was it being able to knit at meals without getting funny looks?
Maybe it was hearing "May I touch you?" more than once.
How about "wait wait stop, I have got to show someone what you are wearing?"
Oh, how about having a conversation with Ann Budd, yeah I totally didn't know it was her.
Maybe taking a class sitting next to Melanie Falick (What a classy lady, Man can she sew!!! Seriously, she's got skills with a needle!!!)
Maybe it was people walking up to me and saying "Can I just touch you for luck?"
How about my impromptu spinning lessons
The stash room
the encouragement
Maybe receiving just the encouragement that I need to start designing some illusion knitting projects.

This weekend was truly inspiring. I spent 3 days with people who have a passion for a craft. I miss them all.

Pictures of the goodies to come.

Motor baby bunting

2009-11-14T20:03:00.001-05:00

Motor baby bunting
Originally uploaded by theatreknitter

This is the motor baby bunting in progress. I am thrilled with how it is coming out. I am making it for a friends baby shower next week. I am using Lion Brand think and Quick yarn. It is really great.

Tonight I am weaving in the yarn ends while settling in for some movie watching on this rainy night.

Koolhaas mittens

2009-11-12T13:44:00.001-05:00

Koolhaas mittens
Originally uploaded by theatreknitter

Hey folks, these are my Koolhaas Mittens. I am THRILLED with them.

They were a stash busting project. I used some yarn that I have had for a very long time that I obtained at a Farmhouse Yarn barn sale back in the day.

I ran out of yarn half way up the second mitten, so I used doubled up cascade 22o to finish. I also made the cuff a bit short. I picked up the stitches on the cuff and knit backwards.

Since the pattern is a repeat of 8, I cast on 40 stitches. When I got to the point of the thumb increase, I increased 2 sts every row. Once I got to row 6 of the chart (Which includes moving stitches and the marker) I have 12 sts which was enough for my thumb. This may not work for everyone, but it was perfect for me.

I LOVE these mittens.

Works in Progress

2009-11-10T19:08:00.003-05:00

This has been a really busy fall in so many ways. I realize that is no excuse for not posting for so long, but I will take any excuse that I can get at this point.

This is 4 OZ of Fiber optic yarns days of wine and roses Superwash Merino

This is 4 OZ of gnomespun 4 oz Wensleydale combed top in the Amethyst Shadows Colorway

This is 4 oz Jacob carded roving in the Meet me at Midnight Colorway.

And Finally (this was actually the first Rhinebeck purchase)

Fiberlady.com 100% bamboo in the Very Berry Colorway

Now I just need someone to give me a spinning lesson. I have inquired with three different shops and none of them have contacted me. This is quite frustrating.

Next post, YARN!!!

North Shore Yarn Crawl part II

2009-09-17T21:35:00.002-04:00

Someone kindly reminded me that I never finished posting about my yarn crawl, now wasn't that rude of me.

After we left Seed Stitch we headed Over the bridge int Beverly to the Abbott Yarn Shoppe. This is a small shop in the center of Beverly. I was not overly impressed with the shoppe, though Guido discovered some great pattern books. I have also learned from other knitters that the owner of this shop is an incredibly skilled knitter.

I did discover a really nice organic yarn that I may be heading back for.
Plymouth Oceanside Organic

After Abbotts it was off to Yarns in the Farm. Now I love yarns stores, I think I may have found my new favorite. Down a beautiful winding road you end up at this quirky little spot. The owners are friendly, the yarns are lovely, it is a great spot to get inspiration for your next project. Being across the street from an ice cream shop is just a great bonus.

I am looking forward to taking my first knitting class at this shop this fall. I will be making the Racing Stripes Sweater

After Yarns in the Farm it was off to Cranberry Fiber Arts. (I am pretty sure I got that right, I should have written this awhile ago)

This was a lovely shop. A great selection of yarns and books. I decided it was a day for pattern shopping for me. We sat and knit with the others in the shop. I would most certainly go back to this shop if I was working on a project because I am sure that I could find someone there to help me out.

We ended the day at Butterfly Yarns in Wakefield. This was another great place to sit and knit. It was fantastic company, and I am looking forward to going back there for their knitting day on Sunday.

This was such a wonderful day spent learning about all of the fabulous yarn stores along the north shore of Boston, it really was fantastic.

Thank you to everyone for encouraging me to finish this post.

Let's Review

2009-08-18T06:58:00.003-04:00

Every now and then I feel that it is nice to go back and look at where we were. So this time last year, what was I doing.

Boston?

I think I'll go to Boston,
I think that I'm just tired
I think I need a new town, to leave this all behind...
I think I need a sunrise, I'm tired of the sunset,
I hear it's nice in the Summer, some snow would be nice. . .

Well, I think the lyrics state it best, but let me state for the record. . NOTHING is definite. . . . .

After the week at home I gave my resignation at work. Rather than being stressful it was a complete relief. I really thought that this job was going to be a good spot for me, but that was not to be. instead it has been never ending frustration.

So I have been looking for jobs in New England so that I can be closer to family and friends.

Well, one of the options has always been Boston (which is where sister J is) Well yesterday I received 3 offers for interviews.

One at a knitting store on Newbury street (that is part time)

One with the ticketing software company. This is the software that I am currently using now.

And last but not least a box office management position.

And here I am. Well, I'm in Salem but close enough. Was this the right decision, you tell me. . . . Of COURSE it was. I sometimes miss the south, sure I do, but that is what vacations are for. For the first time in my life I feel in control of things. financially and emotionally. it is pretty great.

The only down side was giving up Hagrid, that was rough. I think I have truly found a place where I could be forever. This is a perfect spot here in Salem, I pretty much love it here.

So a year ago, pretty much today, I made a huge decision in my life. probably the most grown up decision I have ever made. Many people have asked me "Do you miss the theatre" truth be told, I still work within the industry, I work with theatre companies every day. I haven't left everything. That being said, I do NOT miss the drama. I do NOT miss working for a board, I do NOT miss the hours. I do miss the collaboration and the excitement of the shows. I do NOT miss the paycheck. Have I given up on my pipe dream, HELL no. Some day in a perfect world I will have my theatre. It will be right next to my yarn shop (which becca will help me run, lots of eco fibers) there will also be a children's bookstore not too far (that is for my sis to take care of) and right next door, a fabulous gourmet shop that does catering for small events (That's for Jenny B)

Yeah, back in the day we wanted our brownstone in the city, now we will settle for little shops in some small town on the shore.

Thank you to everyone for supporting me through this year. I have met some amazing people through fiber this year. Peacefulknitter, the south end knitters, knellyknits, Guido and so many more. It has been a fantastic year in Fiber for me.

Of course I can't end this without thanking piccologirl. It was her idea that I come to Boston in the first place. She opened up her apartment to me when I was pretty much at the end of my rope emotionally and financially. Thank you again Jen.

The North Shore Yarn Crawl --- Pt 1

2009-08-04T20:28:00.005-04:00

Seed Stitch - A Fine Yarn.

On Saturday I had the pleasure of a yarn crawl with Guido

This was our route it is amazing just how many shops there are on the north shore alone.

We started the crawl at Seed Stitch a fine yarn

I could not be more happier to live walking distance to this lovely shop. It is just perfect. The first thing I notice in a show is lighting. There has got to be good lighting. The lighting here is PERFECT.
Then there needs to be a place to work. This shop has comfortable chairs, a work table, and lots of space. You can easily wander the store and never bump into people or merchandise.

The staff is helpful and knowledgeable. They had some great yarns that I hadn't seen yet. I got to see the Spud and Chloe yarns. I LOVED the colorways. Just the names were fantastic. They even have Dachshunds. Of course I called nutmegknitter right away. The color is almost an olive green.

This is a really great shop. It is a must visit on the North Shore. Even better. On the same street there is a yarn store, a bead store, a fabric store, and a needlepoint store. Not to mention a fabulous candy/ice cream shop AND a coffee place. It is great.

The store was having a great sale. I was being very well behaved and decided to only get my new Addi's, size 1.
So now that you are done with your blog, would you mind taking me outside? I am trying to be good, but am going to get really annoying in about a minute.

Ishbel

2009-08-02T20:48:00.004-04:00

After reading Peacefulknitters post I knew that I had to knit the Ishbel. i went to the CT Sheep and wool Festival with Nutmegknitter and got the perfect yarn for the project. I used the Silk Merchant from Mocha's Fiber connection. Well it was fantastic. After a couple of mishaps with the cast off, I finally had a wearable garment. This is an item that i am EXTREMELY proud of.

I have taken to wearing this at work and it really helps with cutting the cold from the air conditioning in the office. It is so great. I did make an oops, I believe that I accidentally did the lace work for the large instead of the small. I had JUST enough yarn.

Project Details
Ysolda Teague

from Whimsical Little Knits

Needles: KA interchangables size 5
Yarn: Silk merchant
51% silk, 49% rayon from bamboo
3.5 oz
320 yards
www.mochasfiberconnection.com

I have started my second Ishbel, it will be made out of Violets Pink Ribbon, I am using Size 3 Addis. It is a bit Sherbet Like already, but I do love the yarn, so I am glad that it is getting made.

Okay, pug is giving me the "Please I am cute so please stop typing and take me outside" look. guess I should do that before I regret it.

Hi, I'm Here!!!!

2009-08-02T08:26:00.004-04:00

Hello All,

I can't believe it has been over a month since I post it. I slightly blame it on this little one.

Meet my foster pug Stella. She arrived on July 3rd. I am smitten. It will certainly be tough to give her back to mom when it is time to go home, for now it is great to have a sleeping (shhhhh don't wake her up) pug next to me while I blog.

i have also been getting used to my new commute. I LOVE my new apartment and Salem, MA is fantastic. The commute is not too bad, but I do lose two hours of my day to travel.

I will post more tonight. But just a sneak peak at what you have to look forward too.

Ishbel.

Yarn crawling the North Shore of Boston with Guido.

Victorian Lace today Book Review

And more, more more.
I have been very busy. I have my second ishbel on the needles. i figured out the perfect pattern for felted pink ribbons to sell, AND I am getting ready to cast on the Hemlock Ring as a wedding afghan for my cousin and his fiance.

Yup, I have been busy, just not blogging. Sorry.

Oh, and did I mention that I WON!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I will be attending the Knitters Review Retreat in November. And I WON it. You can't win if you don't play right? Well I did, and i won. I can't believe it. I do not consider myself to be a luck person and here I am going on a retreat all expenses paid. I can't believe it. i am still pinching myself.

Yes , I am alive

2009-06-02T06:40:00.002-04:00

(Me at 4am)
Hello all,

Well I have not fallen off the face of the earth, really I swear. I have apparently fallen off the face of this blog, but not the earth. The past month has been insane, especially because the move has happened. I will post apartment pictures as soon as I have a bit more unpacked. I will, however, post pictures of the mickey ears.

I did participate in the Boston Avon Walk for Breast Cancer. It was an amazing experience. Our team was the Crew-Ka-Teers and I said that I would make the mickey ears.

This is my Aunt Sue (our Team Leader) and Wendy (The Route Division Leader
One of the Awesome Moto Safety Crew members
Route Clean up (Our Heroes in Green)

More Moto Safety

CT Sheep and Wool

2009-04-27T07:41:00.003-04:00

I am so glad that I went home for this fair. First of all, HUGE thanks to nutmegknitter, without her resourcefulness I would not have gotten home. i took GoToBus, $15 to get from Boston to Hartford. it was great. Some solid knitting time, and I got to catch up on some podcasts, so awesome.

This is how my day started out. Sitting at the Christian Science Plaza underneath an amazingly beautiful sky. What a wonderful start to the day.
.
I arrived in Hartford and we headed off to Vernon for CT Sheep and Wool . This Festival is a PERFECT size. While much smaller than Rhinebeck, It was Fantastic. We had the opportunity to scan the entire festival, every single vendor, then went and had lamburgers for lunch (yes lamb burgers, they were great. They are also famous for their lamb stew but it was a bit too warm for that for me). So Becca and I scanned the entire festival.

Ultimately I decided on some Semi Solid Sock yarn

From Ball and Skein
Hand dyed, 75% Merino, 25% nylon. 450 yards
www.ballandskein.com
I also got an AMAZING tool called the Wristaff from this Vendor, the photo did not come out, but I will re-post. SO cool.

I also got some WONDERFUL silk blend

Silk merchant
51% silk, 49% rayon from bamboo
3.5 oz
320 yards
www.mochasfiberconnection.com
I am sure I will shop more from this shop, they had some amazing mohair, great silks, just beautiful. I am looking forward to adding their shop to my yarn crawl map.

There were a number of soap vendors. I was excited to see this. I will say, nutmegknitters "green" ideas do rub off on my. I have discovered that shower gels are very wasteful (the bottles) so I have started looking for some nice bar soaps.

Blackberry and Basil (actually vegetarian soap) and Lemon Vanilla.

www.sleepymoonsoap.com
Oh, and she was smart. She put the bars of soaps in the bathroom. Yup, I was seeking her out because I had used it. Note to soap sellers out there.

I do owe you another post because I also acquired a POUND of alpaca fiber. It is amazing. I went for the white because I hope to play with dyes, so more to come.

Until then, I leave you with SUPER cute.

I had a greast time, it was really fantastic.

More to come.

Okay, so it has been awhile

2009-04-21T07:30:00.003-04:00

It has been awhile since posting, so sorry that I have disappeared.

Well I finished montera. I will have to post some pics for you. I am not thrilled with how it came out. I will wear it, because it is nice and warm, but just not thrilled. I will not give up on sweaters, but just don't think I am meant to be a sweater knitter. i did just purchase Snow White, I am also hoping to case on this. I will not give up yet.

I have started the Curve of Pursuit blanket I LOVE this pattern, it is so fantastic. It is so much easier than it looks, don't let it scare you, I LOVE LOVE LOVE it.

As for socks, I am still in love with Cookie A. She is amazing, I wish I could see in yarn what she sees. She is just brilliant!!!!! I have cast on Glynnis. I think I am going to go through the book in order, because I am just that much of a dork. Though I would also like to knit another pair of monkeys, and also pomotomus.

Currently most of my knitting has been taken over by pink hats. Yes yes yes, lots and lots of pink hats. I feel like they will be going on FOREVER. but not really. This year i am taking part in the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer here in Boston. I have been making Pink Mickey ears for our team, the Crew-ka-teers.

They are coming along, and they will be done for the walk. I have to make about 15 hats!!!! can you believe it!!!! It has been fun knitting them, but I think I am just bored. I can't really pick up other knitting, and that has been disappointing.

This weekend I am off to CT sheep and wool with becca. Looking forward to a nice day of yarn and fiber. I am also looking forward to a spinning lesson that I am planning for myself 9it is tough to get it scheduled with work because so many yarn stores close early, but I will get it done)

My Birthday

2009-03-17T07:26:00.004-04:00

Hello All,

Well to everyone on Ravelry and Facebook who wished me a happy birthday, thank you so much. I certainly felt loved. I had a relatively uneventful day. Work was, well, work. . . What can I say. . . .

After work I got to take advantage of the fact that things actually happen here in Boston, and last night was no Exception. Casey and Jess (Founders of Ravelry) gave a talk at Simmons college. It was incredibly refreshing to hear someone say that a Business can start from a passion. I know that what I want for my long term goal is a few years off, but to know that it can happen makes me very happy.

Of Course I got pictures of people holding my knitting. How nice of you to ask.Here is Jess (She is holding the beginning of a Victory Junction Afghan that I am making)
This is Guido from It's a Purl Man

It really was a great night. Tonight I will probably be avoiding Boston as much as possible. Don't get me wrong, I enjoy going out and playing, what I don't enjoy is dumb drunk people, I don't tolerate amateur night well. Tomorrow night, however, I will be meeting Kat Von Dee . I am SO excited.

Monkeys

2009-03-13T14:44:00.001-04:00

Monkeys
Originally uploaded by theatreknitter

Wearing knitted socks mean having just the right shoes to show them off. I discovered these shoes at Pay less. Comfy, inexpensive, and they show off the monkeys.

Hellooooo out there

2009-03-12T08:08:00.003-04:00

Hello All,

I have not been very good about my blogging lately. I am trying to be a bit more productive while I am at home. I have tried a couple new routines and it seems to be working for me.

Nobody really "enjoys" cleaning the house, there are things we would all rather be doing. I, unfortunately, am a creature of clutter. it just happens. No matter what I do. At the suggestion of another blogger I have been trying to follow a bit of a plan. Every day I spend just 15 minutes cleaning. What I do is VERY specific. I do nothing else for that 15 minutes (okay, so maybe the radio is on) But it is amazing that by actually doing it, I find that it works. This doesn't necessarily work for laundry, but does for other things, especially because when you realize that you only have 15 minutes, you move quicker, and may actually be able to get two things done.

Okay, so now for the fun stuff. I did get to see Patrick last weekend. This is a huge bonus of being closer to home, it doesn't take too much to be able to see family. He is getting such a personality and really starting to interact and is so adorable.

Last weekend was SUCH an amazing weekend and I took the opportunity to spend a day wandering around the city. I of course went to a yarn store. This one is A Good Yarn out in Brookline. A friend from my knitting group works there. It really is a great shop, and they have roving for spinning, which I have discovered is hard to find. Lots of places have roving for needle felting, but not for roving. I got some great tips on my spinning from one of the ladies there, and it was great.

LITTLE SECRET: they have an AMAZING sale bin. I made out QUITE well with some WONDERFUL Louisa Harding Angora. Can you say something wonderfully luxurious for Betsy?!?!?!

Of course on my walk I saw something random, and couldn't not take a photo.

I went back home and buckled down on knitting. I have been working on Montera, and I love this pattern. I can't wait to wear it.
The picture sucks, sorry for that, but here it is.

Then I went off to church. I think I may have found a church that I really like in my neighborhood. This was a challenge because I had such a fantastic church down in North Carolina. Apparently there is a new Lenten rule, you can "indulge" in whatever you have given up on Sundays. I gave up Diet Coke this year. This has been a HUGE sacrifice. Though I will say, this week I haven't missed the actual Diet Coke this week. I have missed "drinks with bubbles" if that makes any sense. SO anyway, back to church. I was leaving church and SERIOUSLY craving a diet coke. I decided to get just one bottle for me and Jen to split (she has given up Diet coke as well) I went into Stop and Shop and went to grab one out of the cooler.

God is playing a cruel trick on me.

Okay, the birthday is next week!!! Seems like a year has gone by so fast. It has certainly been an interesting year. Never thought I would be back in CT, certainly never thought I would be living with family, and NEVER in my life did I think that I would be working in Software. Everything happens for a reason. . . . . .

My new boots

2009-02-27T12:16:00.001-05:00

My new boots
Originally uploaded by theatreknitter

Well, since there was a water main break in downtown boston (right down the street from my office) I figured it was the perfect day to try out my new boots. !!! Aren't they great. I am so tired of wet feet when I am walking to work, so I feel it was a great investment. and if I am forced to wear rubber rain boots, then I might as well have them be cheery.

Famous people holding my knitting

2009-02-25T22:13:00.001-05:00

100_1057
Originally uploaded by kgholthausen

I FINALLY got to see the Four Bitchin Babes and they were fantastic!!!!!

in this photo 9holding my Montera)

Diedre Flint, Debi Smith, Nancy Moran, and Sally Fingerett.

Thank you Ladies for an amazing performance, and for making it such a special night.

Unsure of who the "Babes" are, find out. www.fourbitchinbabes.com

A little bit of this, a little bit of that

2009-02-14T19:07:00.003-05:00

Well, It has been a crazy few weeks, hence the not having time to blog. But I will say that I have been doing a lot of knitting, and I have been learning new techniques.

I have also had the opportunity to spend some time with the little ones in Connecticut. Patrick is getting so big. He is really starting to interact with the world around him. My sister is settling into motherhood quite well. suffering through some sleepless nights, but doing a great job. Patrick clearly knows who his mommy is
.

Lorelai is such a fun little kid. She loves playing with her books, giving sloppy kisses, throwing her food around, and running around the house. Becca is such a wonderful Mom.
Here she is trying to play with the camera.

She also clearly has a great immune system because Becca didn't call to tell me that she got the terrible cold that I had last weekend.
And here she is with her new book:

(I Love this picture)

In the knitting world I started knitting Montera from Knitty. I love the pattern. I am so glad I chose it as my first sweater in a long time. It is easy to follow, knit in one piece (except for the sleeves) and I love the yearn. Such a great color.

A great shout out to my Iphone App StitchMinder. It is fantastic. Right now in the pattern I am working the cable chart while at the same time working decrease rows every 6-8 rows. The stitch minder lets you keep track of 4 different things at a time. It is just great, I LOVE it.

I am also working on a hat for mom. It is actually a re-knit. I made it for her last year for Christmas. The hast was never long enough, didn't cover her ears. I am re-knitting it now so that she can actually wear it. I am making it our of lumpy bumpy. It is a Farmhouse yarn in the Tropical punch colorway on size 10's. It is great love it.

I have been using my new inter-changables so much, they are great. Only had a couple of times where they have un-twisted, I certainly have to keep an eye on that. I will say that is something with the Denise's that never happens, but the Denise's get so sticky.

Next week I head down to NC with mom, we are actually taking her smartcar down there. I think I will be bringing some of mu bulky yarn to make some patches for my Victory junction blankets that I am working on to donate for this summer. I will also bring some cascade to work on some Micky Mouse Hats that I am making for my.

I have been very fortunate to learn some new techniques over the past few weeks, and it has been great. I have been taught how to spit splice, and it is my new favorite thing to do. I also learned how to get rid of those nasty gaps when I go from knit to purl.

Okay, so it has been awhile

2009-02-02T17:14:00.002-05:00

Well, let's see. what have I been doing lately.

Well. . . . hmm. . . suffice to say I have a few things on the needles, but I have completed a few projects as well.

Like this multi-directional scarf.

I will forever call this the "Girls weekend scarf" Why you ask? well back when I turned 30 Becca and Vik and I spent the weekend together in New York. we had a wonderful time. I purchased this yarn while we were there. It was a multi-directional scarf that got a hole in it. Thankfully, it was a perfect rip, so I was able to make the scarf again. It is Blue Heron yarns, something like Fat elephant. I am bad with links, maybe someday I will actually let you know.

Then there is my wonderful wrist pillow for work

So the day before Rhinebeck I went to a craft fair with Becca and met her friend Peacefulknitter. What a great Gal. So great in fact that she bestowed upon me my first bit of malabrigo. I promptly casted on a wrist pillow for work. SO much nicer than anything else that I could get at office depot, don't you agree.

Currently I have lots of projects going.I am finishing up. Almost done with the second mitt for Jen. She no longer has a cast and therefore needs a functional mitt for her left hand. I have a pair of koolhaas wrist warmers on the needles for me. I LOVE them. Those of you who have done the pattern know that it is a bit "fiddely" so it is taking awhile to finish. I will certainly have them for next winter, and maybe even the spring.

I am most excited about the sweater. I will be making Montera I got the yarn on Ravelry for a SONG so I am so excited.

Well, really that is it for me. I probably should have cast on some sock yarn yesterday, as I am in the LNV sock marathon. but no, the yarn wsa angry with me and did not want to produce anything. I could ALSO have cast on a hat, since I am hoping to knit 52 hats this year. But again, yarn was angry with me. So I knit an entire fingerless mitt (almost) instead. Hey, I was kntting productive.

A great quote for today

2009-01-26T11:39:00.003-05:00

So yesterday I was taking a drive up to Mysitc with 2 of my aunts and my mom. I was discussing knitting as we have a large project coming up. My aunt said "WOw, I bet it would be your dream to be able to knit all of the time" Well, of course it would. If I could combine it with my love of theatre, even better. I will settle for lots of free time to knit.

So I was working on my koolhaas in the car (yup, start to finish in three days, who rocks with knititng htis pattern? Oh yes, that is me)

(oops, gotta clean that bathroom mirror)

So today in my EXHAUSTED state I went to pull off my page a days in my Yarn Harlot Calendar.

"Find Something you're passionate about and keep temendously interested in it"

I find this quote even more appropriate today as it is rfom Julia Child. My grandmothers favorite chef. Today I walked to work wearing my Grandmother's pea coat. It couldn't be a more perfect fit. Those of you who know me know that while I am not "extremely" short, I have difficulty finding pants and shirts that are not too long. This coat is the perfect length.

So today, the quote is for you grandma.

DUDE It's not a Dell!!

2009-01-21T10:22:00.001-05:00

My new computer
Originally uploaded by theatreknitter

Not that the Dell has been a bad thing. Really, it has had a wonderful life. It may continue to have a wonderful life when I get all of my files off of it. It is a perfect computer for someone who needs to check their email, write a paper, or get some work done. It, however, is not so condusive to someone who wants to be listening to a podcast while surfing the internet. You see, the mere mention of running itunes and any other application at the same time sent my poor little dell into a tizzy.

So when I saw a Compaq on sale at OfficeMax I jumped on the opportunity. I checked out Circuit City first, but alss things were only 10% off, and this was much better.

The associate who helped me, SOOO fantastic. I was hoping to get said computer on Sunday, but it just wouldn't stop snowing. I called the store on Monday afternoon to make sure they had them in stock, they had ONE. I asked the nice man to hold it for me, and he said yes. Having worked retail, this is not as easy as it sounds. You can hold an item, and anyone can grab it from you. It isn't necessarily your fault. Your manager can come and say NO you can't hold it. Never yell at the associate who can't hold an item (unless it has bene less than 30 minutes) it isn't his fault)

Yes, I was a good girl and got the extra coverage, so I have a total of 4 years of coverage.

Now to get all of my files off the old computer before she officially tells me that she is done.

i have returned

2009-01-18T19:52:00.003-05:00

Hello all,

I have returned from my vacation. I spent the entire week with family and it was lovely.

I went home on Friday to help prepare for Russian Christmas. Readers Digest Version. My great Grandmother was Russian Orthodox. She married a catholic, raised her children catholic, but the family always celebrated the holidays. This tradition has been going on for many years and it is always such a great time. On Friday night we fill the pierogies. This yar there was over 400 pierogies to stuff. It is always a great time with lots of laughs and wine all around.

The evening was a subdues this year by the loss of our great uncle. It was rather sudden. he had been sick since bout thanksgiving. He had started doing very well, so well in fact that they were going to be transferring him out of the rehab facility and he was asking about getting his permanent hndicapped stitcker. Alass, he ook a sudden turn and very quickly passed on.

Dinner was on Saturday and it was great. So much fun. Of course the hit of the day was Patrick James. He was a doll the entire day.

He is such a great baby.

Sunday was rather lazy. Dad was resting his knee after over-doing it on Friday and Saturday (Oh, did I mention he had surgery before having 36 people over for a sit down dinner. Yup, gotta love that stuburn New England Mentality)

We had a lovely dinner on Sunday to celebrate My Step Mothers birthday. Lobster for her and rebecca, lobster pot pie for me. It was great.

I took the night shift with young Mr. P on Sunday night. He did great. I was happily woken up to his content little face.

DId I mention he is a completely sweet baby.

So Monday was spent laying low and relaxing. We did, however, head out to a party light apretiation party. (Aunt Christing is a cunsultant, if you ever want to place an dorder just let me know)

So on Tuesday it was on to the yarn crawl. As adorable as the lorax is, and we love her dearly, she stayed with Grammie while Becca and I went out shopping.

Our first stop was Sit and Knit Too. It is a bit out of the way for us, bu they have a good selection, attentive staff, and the bridge. Know great deals this time, but of course lots of good ideas.

We saw the greatest sign on the Wethersfield green.

Can you see it?

We also went to Saybrook Yarn. I was slightly dissappointed with their customer service. I got a Gift Certificate for chirstmas and could not find it. I asked them if they had record of it. THey did. Unfortunately, they didn't have record of it being used, so they could not replace it. Had this been a large chain retail store I would say, sure. But honestly, this is a yarn store and I have been a customer of theirs for many years (Thankfully my sister found the gift certificate, so I am good)

We then went to Madison Wool. This is now my favorite LYS, The owner is fantastic. She is always asking questions about the yarns that we are using, why we like them and such. She has great patterns, great yarns, and now she carries roving. She is even willing to spend a bit extra money and buy yarns that aren't wholesle yet so that she can have some local farms in her shop. She also makes sure to keep the "bargain hunters" in mnd. Lets be real, knitting a sweater takes lots of yarn. She keeps some good acrylics that are really inexpensive for us folks.

I got to have dinner with the Huben family on Tuesday night, and got some great play time with Lorelai. She is such a fun little girl. Going to be a trouble maker before we know it. She is giving big wet sloppy kisses now. Those kinds of kisses couldn't be better.

The week kind of blurs at this point. Days blend together and such. WE took Patrick o the doctors and we weight 8lb 12 oz .The docter wanted to weigh him again because she did not believe he gained that much.

It snowed.

We went to a funeral, which was a lovely service. Got my sisters car stuck at the cemetary. (seriously, they knew there was a service and they did not plow the cemetary?)

Went to SNB with Becca. Those New Hven knitters are awsome. I bought Mason Dixon knitting for mom, I think it will be a great first knitting book for her.

I of course got a surprise for myself as well. . . . The Knitters Handy Book of Pattern

I am pleased with it so far. It gives great instructions for basic sizes to the every day things that you will knit.

On Friday night I went to the movies with mom. We saw bride wars. It was great. Very cute.

Saturday we went out to get Rebecca stocked up on formula, diapers, and to get her a snap in stoller base for her car seat.

Today I headed back to boston. I was thrilled to find out that the commuter train runs on sundays now, and even runs in the direction that I need. I hopped the train and picked up my knitting. I got to the train station and went in to grab my ticket.

I headed to the platform to enjoy the snowy morning.

While waiting for the train tere was an announcement.

"To the passenger who was on the shore line east that is waiting for htis train. The conductor found your knititng on the train (DOH) She will be bringing it back to this station. "

Thankfully, the conductor asked me where I was going when I got off the train, as I was the only passenger on it. She knew where I was headed. Also, thankfully, step mom works very close to the train sation and she can get the knitting for me. I also let my pattern on the train, grrrr.

So I am back in snowy Boston. Not feeling so great, but I head into work tomorrow. I will be getting a new computer tomorrow. While mine is lovely and great, I unfortunately can't run I-tunes. So sadly it is time for the upgrade.

I found one that I really like and is on sale. WOO HOO

It even has a number pad on the keyboard.

A Fabulous way to start my vacation

2009-01-08T23:13:00.002-05:00

So after my last day of work for a week (YAY VACATION) I headed out to Cambridge for a concert. Now, backstory. I firmly believe that my mother having me sleep out for a concert at 9 months of age set me up for later in life. You see, I love live music. I love all live music. Sue, I can sit and listen to a CD for hours on end, but ther eis nothing like actually going to a concert. So as I sit here with my ears still ringing a bit (no it wasn't super loud, but my theory now is since my hearing is going away anyway, and I will probably be wearing a hearing aid in about 5 years I may as well enjoy the loud concerts and sit right next to the speakers)

So I headed to Cambridge. grabbed a Latte, and went to Club Passim.

I decided to cast on a sock using magic loop as I had some time to kill.

The opening act was a solo artist name Patrick Thomas, He was great. A voice very similar to MArtin Sexton, I loved it. Looking forward to getting his CD and finding more songs that he has written for other artist.

The main act for hte night was Paper Raincoat. They were fantastic. Just so great.

They were also very kind and allowed me to get their picture taken with my knitting
This is The drummer Adam and Amber, and me with my knitting.

This is Adam Wong and Patrick Thomas

Here are the results of the knitting. Not too bad I gota say, though it will probably get frogged. There were quite a few splt stitches. But these socks will forever be called the Paper Raincoat socks.

I think that is my newfavorite part about knitting. Each project doesn't just have meaning because the item was made, but I can always look back on what I was doing when I knit the project. I was knititng my monkeys when I was watching Michael Phelps do amazing things in the Olympics.

I was knitting Boobbi Bear on the train while heading home to see Patrick for hte very first time.

And these socks will always remind me of the fantastic concert where i saw a fabulous band, and a fantastic songwriter and performer.

Thank you all.

oooo lets play a game

2009-01-08T14:53:00.006-05:00

Play the game if you wish! If I 've tagged you, it's because I think you'll have fun

The game goes like this:

1. Grab your iPod or other MP3 player and randomize your songs.
2. Type the first line/phrase of the first 20-40 songs that come up (you can skip one if the first line is, say, the actual title of the song).
3. Anyone can try and guess the title of the song by commenting on this note.
4. When the title has been guessed, bold out the lyric and add the name of the person who guessed it.
5. NO cheating by using search engines to find answers.

1. i used to travel in the shadows and I never found the nerve to try to walk up to you.
2. Hi I'm Brooke Windham and welcome back to the Windham workout disc 2 challenge.
3. I don't give a damn for the thunder of fathers come hell or high water whatever they do
4. And noah and his family worked from sun to sun to sun.
5. I never ask you where you go. After I leave you in the morning.
6. When the only sound in the empty street is the heavy tread of the heavy feet that belong to the lonesome cop.
7. ~~Sha la la la la la yeah. Down at the New Amsterdamn~~ obstiknit With Mr. Jones (counting crows)
8. I heard that you were drunk and mean down at the ____________ (Do I get a point because I actually didn't need to listen to the lyrics on this one before I got the lyrics?)
9. Hey wouldn't you want to know everywhere that a river flows to right now, I can show you how.
10. Oh my father lord and creator you know that half my heart is yours.
11. Don't you ever wish you were someone else. You were meant to be. The way you are exactly.
12. Fog at the window still, looks all day never gets her fill.
13. When I was a girl, I had a favorite story
14. Grew up in a small town and when the rain would fall down, I'd just stare out my window.
15. at words poetic I'm so pathetic
16. ~~Well we are big rock singers, we've got golden fingers and we're loved everywhere we go~~ obstiknit That is Cover of the ROlling Stone (Dr. Hook)
17. I caught you smiling I know I've seen you here before
18. The night before she's leaving there's suddenly a change She slowly sits beside me and she softly calls my name. And gives me an address, and she says, "Come visit soon."
19. I took a long drive by the church and the high dive Past the riverbank hillside, where we looked at the clouds
20. To the man who lost his mind Left home for the last time They found him in the wintertime
21. Don't kiss me goodbye again, leave this night clean and quiet. You want the last word, you want me to laugh, but leave it for now (such a great lyric)
21. ~~Strange dear but true dear when I'm close to you dear.~~So In Love: a Cole Porter Tune, this version was from De-Lovely. It is from the show Kiss Me Kate. Guessed correctly by BalletMommy
22. Take a piece of the sky, make it rain cherry wine. Give her love, give her life, give her mine.
23. ~~Got a call from an old friend we used to be real close.~~ obstiknit My Life (Billy Joel)
24. ~~Grey skies are gonna clear up ________________~~ ~~seriously, this show is on my ipod?~~ Nutmegknitter got the Show and Balletmommy got the song. Put on a happy face from Bye Bye Birdie.
25. No that one's Jerry Seinfeld, that one's John lennon, there. No, the Dakota.
26. Well, she'd like you to think she was born yesterday With her innocent looks and her little-town way
27. did I just hear an alarm start ringing.
28. I recommend getting your heart trampled on to anyone I recommend walking around naked your living room (She will always be amazing in my book) nutmegknitter got that it is in face Alanis Morresette, i still need the title of the song.
29. It's been ______________
30: The bluest of blue, that's what her eyes are. that's what I am today.
31. A waltz when she walks in the room, She pulls back the hair from her face
32. I wish by golly I, could spread my wings and fly. And let this crowded soul be free for just a little while.
33. Those parties senior year I thought we ruled the world. You funneled all that beer, I held your head while you hurled (come on, that's a funny line, it had to be longer)
34. Tank is full, switch is on, night is warm, cops are gone.
35. ~~some say love it is a river.~~ The Rose: From Ballettmommy (this one performed by Bette herself.
36. Seen the lights go out on broadway (Give me the actual title)
37 I wish you could meet my Girlfriend
38. The internet is really really great!
39. ~~early each day to the steps of St. Pauls.~~ Feed the Birds from Marry Poppins again by BallettMommy

Koolhaas

2009-01-07T22:04:00.003-05:00

I finished the Koolhaas. i LOVED the pattern. It is my first hat of my 52 hat challenge.

I made this for Jennifer out of Cascade 220

When is a house more than that

2009-01-07T17:23:00.003-05:00

As a good friend would say "A House is four walls and a roof" This is very true. That statement has stuck with me for so many years. It is the statement that has really made me start thinking about the word "Want" in fact, I don't really like hearing myself say it. I guess it wouldn't be so much "want" I can want a drink of water, and that isn't so bad, but more wanting things just for the sake of wanting (though this does not apply to yarn in any way shape or form, I'm just sayin)

Well, needless to say my grandfather sold his house. This is a wonderful thing. In this economy selling any house is a big deal, but this one is a very large historic home that needs lots of work. My grandfather "outgrew" the home many years ago, and the house really ran away from him in its needs.

So this weekend I went for my first weekend of hard labor at the house. It is amazing what can be acquired in 30 years in a home, not to mention the fact that prior to that 30 years was 27 moves, 8 children, and 12 grandchildren. Now there are even 4 Great Grandchildren to add ot the list.

It wasn't so much the stuff that we moved out. . . I don't think that hit me so much. There will always be stuff, it was that no matter were I looked was a moment. A place in time that I could bring back. Standing in the kitchen I could literally smell my grandmothers food. I could go down the counter and point out exactly what cereals were in what jars, and where the grapenuts were.

In the den was the day I spent watching the Westminster Dog show with my grandma. I still love watching dog shows because of that.

There was one christmas that I can re-call where my grandfather had a train set in the basement. We normally weren't allowed down there, but the train set was there that year, so we all got to go.

The tiny hallway leading from the dining room to the kitchen is were we were always being shood from. It got crowded quickly. two people can't even pass in there it is so tight.

Then there is the dinising room. THe day of grandmas memorial service a couple of the younger cousins were playing under neath the table because there were just so many people there that they couldn't fit.

The two living rooms where there were christmas's where you couldn't see the floor. Grandpa's library which looked out over to the seaport form his desk. The walls filled with national geographics and slides.

The front stairs where us grandchildren frequently re-enacted the "So long farewell scene from Sound of Music. One of our favorite past times.

The Morning Room. Really just a front bedroom, but my favorite room in the house. THe windows look over the river. For years it was my aunt Candy's room.

My grandpaernts room. It was always off limits, but I can remember the brush set that sat on grandmas dresser. It was silver brushes and a mirror. I loved them so much. Who knows why, I never had long hair really (not for any length of time that would necessitate silver brushes)

THe middle bedroom. I can remember staying there when we would sleep over. THey would have me and cousin andrea share the same bed. this never worked out well.

The Attic which led to the widows walk. This is qwhere the brides would throw their bouquets to the waiting crowd below at at least three weddings that I can recall.

There is another bedroom that has the greatest floor. There are soldiers painted on the floor. I hope among hope that the floor is never replaced.

Outside isn't much of a yarnactually. But it proved to be so much fun for us. The front of the house which now holds a hammock. There used to be a fence around the house. As kids we would run and stand on the fence when we would here the whistle sound for the bridge. For some reason watching that silly bridge go up every hour was so amazing to us.

The gardens. tHey aren't there now, but Oh my. My grandmother's gardens were the most amazing site to see. She could make anyhting grow.

She was also quite a whiz at laundry (Hey, you raise 8 kids. You gotta be good at cooking and laundry) The clothesline is still there. At the end of the yard is a hyacinth bush. It isn't in bloom now, but when it is. WOW you will never see a more vibrant yellow. In that bush is a small hiding place. We had out own little fort.

Every corner has a story. Kind of feels like we are losing more than some walls, but an actual person.

sorry to be sappy, knittng will come later I promise.

I just had to write this down somewhere, and here seemed like the best spot.

Look What I Got!!!!!

2009-01-03T21:36:00.001-05:00

starbucks yarn ball
Originally uploaded by theatreknitter

So i went in search of my Starbucks knitted much today. I had to have one, I know it is totally frivilous, but I had to.

So when I got my mug the lovely starbucks barrista behind hte counter said "Would you like the decorations" Of course my very observant sister asked for the wreath first, but it had alreayd been given away, but I did get two of the yarn balls (one if for nutmegknitter)

So go to your local Starbucks and ask for the AWESOMELY FAB
ULOUS knitting related Christmas decorations for your holiday next year.

101 things in 1001 days

2009-01-01T09:52:00.002-05:00

Well, some things have been updated. I didn't do as bad as I thought this year. Even wihtout thinking about things I have gotten things done tha tI wanted
\

Taking the lead from Nutmegknitter I have decided to join the 101 things in 1001 days challenge. (I am such a follower, but she finds all of the good stuff)

The Mission:
Complete 101 preset tasks in a period of 1001 days.

The Criteria:
Tasks must be specific (ie. no ambiguity in the wording) with a result that is either measurable or clearly defined. Tasks must also be realistic and stretching (ie. represent some amount of work on my part).

Why 1001 Days?
Many people have created lists in the past - frequently simple goals such as New Year's resolutions. The key to beating procrastination is to set a deadline that is realistic. 1001 Days (about 2.75 years) is a better period of time than a year, because it allows you several seasons to complete the tasks, which is better for organizing and timing some tasks such as overseas trips or outdoor activities.

I will be spearating my list into Catagories (I need organization in life) So the catagories are:

Health (h), Art (a), Knitting (Yeah, they are separate)(k), Corespondence (c), Self (s), Food (f), finances ($)

So Here it Goes:

1. ~~h Make an appointment for a physical (1/1)~~

2. ~~h Follow Through with the Physical. (1/1)~~

3. ~~h Get Dental insurance (1/1)~~

4. h See the Dentist twice a year (0/5) Now that I have dental insurance this will be much easier.

5. H Do a Self Breast Exam Every Month (0/19) ~~get a mammogram (0/1)~~ My doctor at my physical did advise that since it is easy o me to self exam there is no extreme need for me to start getting actual mammograms until I am 35. So this is now updated to do a self breast exam every month. I will do this test on the 7^th of every month. My mom’s birthday is on the 7^th.

6. H (for others) I will post a reminder once a month on my blog for people to self test so that hopefully at least one person will be able to benefit from early detection (0/19)

7. ~~h get my hearing tested (1/1)~~

8. ~~h Make a GYN appointment (1/1)~~

9. h Exercise 3x/week (0/429) Oh this was just a complete loss. I have joined a gym already for 2009, so hopefully I will do better. Will keep you posted.

10. h ONLY eat fast food once a month (0/33) Well, I did better about this, but I wouldn’t say I did well. I will keep this one in mind throughout the year.

11. h. drink 1 glass of milk a day (0/1001) Well, again, this was a bust. Lets see how we do about this in 2009

12. h. start taking vitamins, esp calcium (0/1) hmm, let’s try this one again.

13. h. Drink 8 glasses of water a day (0/1001) Interestingly, I have done realy well with this. I think I can continue this one.

14. h Make appt. with a dermatologist (0/1)

~~15.~~ ~~h Get regular eye exam (0/1)~~

16. Knit 5 blankets for Victory Junction (Dad's Christmas Present) (1/5)

~~17.~~ ~~Knit 5 hats for childrens cancer charity (5/5)~~

18. knit 5 hats for Hats for Alex (1/5)

19. Knit 20 rope bracelets for team Wind Beneath our wings (0/20)

~~20.~~ ~~k Organize needles (1/1)~~ Now I just have to keep them that way

21. k give away/swap needles that I do not use/need (0/1)

~~22.~~ ~~k Sort through knitting magazines and books (1/1)~~

~~23.~~ ~~k Give away/swap un needed books and magazines (1/1)~~

24. k Make an afghan for T&L (0/1)

25. k Learn to Crochet (0/1)

26. k knit the central park hoodie for ME (0/1) SOOOO close, it is in progress

~~27.~~ ~~k knit a pair of socks, and wear them (0/1)~~ Made my monkeys!!!!!!!!!

~~28.~~ ~~k Have all christmas knitting DONE by December 10th (0/1)~~ This was kind of a bust, but I did much better with my Christmas knitting this year. Will try to repeat this for 2009

29. k Have all christmas knitting DONE by December 10th (0/1)

30. k learn fair aisle knitting (0/1)

31. k knit something argyle (0/1)

32. k go through online sites and save patterns to Rav library and Rav Favorites (0/1).

33. K Organize Ravelry Favorites and library (0/1)

34. k organize knitting patterns in a book (0/1)

~~35.~~ ~~K make Lorelai's baptism blanket (1/1)~~

36. a Take a picture every day (45/1001)

37. a Post the pictures in a flickr group (35/1001)

38. a Make new groups in flickr (0/1)

39. a learn to use a sewing machine (0/1)

40. a. use my SLR camera (0/1)

41. a start writing stories again (0/10)

42. a make personalized alphabet books for little people (0/5?)

~~43.~~ ~~join flickr pro (1/1)~~ Thank you becca

44. c Write a letter to someone each month (4/30)

45. c Send post Cards to Granny (0/30)

46. c send one post card/month t0 Lorelai (3/33)

47. c. Send one post card a month to Patrick (0/33)

48. c send one post card a month to charlotte (0/33)

49. c send one post card a month to Gracie (0/33)

50. c send one post card a month to (0/33) to be filled in with name later

51. c send out christmas cards (0/2)

52. c send out birthday cards (0/1)

53. c Send out Valentines in 2009 (0/1)

54. c send 5 post cards/letters a month to Walter Reed Medical Center (0/165)

55. f. Cook a new recipe every month (4/33)

1. Pork Loin in the Pressure Cooker (a little dry, but it was the first attempt)

2. Spanikopita (Not bad, I use greens and not spinach, the greens were undercooked, first time0 but really good)

3. Veggie potato pie (I couldn’t really give it a name, but it was spanikopita with potatos, carrots, and spinach. It was SOOOOO good

4. Borcht : It was great. A bit watery, but I would certainly cook it again.

56. f. Make a recipe box of all of MY favorite recipes (0/100)

57. f. try one vegetarian recipe a month (3/33)

1. spanikopita

2. veggie potato pie

3. borcht

4. squash chips

58. f. learn to bake bread (NOT IN THE BREAD OVEN) (0/1)

59. f. learn to make jam (0/1)

60. f. give home baked gifts for christmas (not cookies) (0/1)

61. f. if I like a food, get the recipe (0/15)

62. f. Try a new fruit or vegetable every month (0/33)

1. Beets (better than I remember)

2. Greens (not fantastic, but okay)

63. f. cook sushi (0/1)

64. f grow herbs (0/1)

65. f cook a meal for my dad and step mother while I am home (0/1)

66. f cook a meal for my sisters while I am visiting home (0/1)

67. f cook a meal for my mother and step father while I am home (0/1)

68. s Go to Church every week (45/143) I missed very few weeks of church this week. When I moved to Boston it was a little more complicated. But I did reall well, and am getting ready to go now.

69. s keep a journal (0/1)

70. s Learn more about my religion (0/1)

71. s Read/listen to one book a month (0/33)

1. Such a Pretty Fat (Jen Lancaster

2. Little Women (working on it, listening to it on audio)

3. 19 Minutes (Jodi Piccoult)

4. Certain Girls (Jennifer Weiner)

~~72.~~ ~~s REALLY decide where I want to settle (0/1)~~ Well, I think I am back in New England. I have missed it. I am loving the boston Area. Work is great, life is good. We will see how this goes.

73. s get 3 house plants (0/3)

74. s care for an orchid (0/1)

75. s get a facial when I can afford it (0/1)

76. s get a massage (0/1) (thank you mom)

77. s get through my netflix queu (0/1)

~~78.~~ ~~$Pay off Car (0/1)~~ YAY!!!!!!

79. $Pay Off Credit Cards (1/3)

80. $Pay off past medical bill (0/1)

81. $Learn My credit Score (0/1)

82. $Save $1/Day (101/1001) Not great, but I am getting there. I can catch this one up.

83. $ find out about purchasing a house or condo (0/1)

84. $ keep my car running to the end of this challenge (0/1)

85. $ get regular oil changes and tire rotations in my car (5/10)

86. t go to a concert (0/1)

1. GirlyMan

2. David Wilcox

3. Christine Lavin

87. t go to a play (1/1)

1. Seussical

88. t go to a comedy club (0/1)

89. t try letter boxing (0/1)

90. t Visit new place in Boston Area (0/21)

91. t Visit 10 new places in CT (0/10)

92. t Go on a vacation (0/1) Going home for a holiday does NOT qualify

93. t Visit the statue of liberty (0/1)

94. t Visit the Empire State Building (0/1)

95. t Visit Ellis Island (0/1)

96. t Visit 10 Museums (0/10)

97. t get to the BEACH (0/1)

~~98.~~ ~~t Visit PSF (0/1)~~

~~99.~~ ~~t visit Jen in Boston (0/1)~~

100t visit Mare in Maine (0/1)

Celebrate with Becca when we have both completed our tasks (0/1)

100. Post once weekly updates on my 1001 progress in a separate blog.

101. Get a dog (0/1)

Items that have had to change, and why

~~h (for hagrid) learn to make healthy cat food from scratch.~~ I had to give up Hagird. This was a very sad choice for me, but I couldn’t keep him in my current apartment

~~h (for hagrid) learn more about FIV, and keeping Hagrid healthy (0/1)~~ Again, I had to give up my boy, buy I am sure he has a good home

k go through the online sites and print up the patterns that I like (0/1) this has been changed. Thanks to Ravelry I do not have to waster paper. So this was adjusted.

2008 a year in review

2008-12-31T16:29:00.004-05:00

2008-in-review-meme

Borrowed from Nutmegknitter.

Where did you begin 2008?

I drove from CT to NC with Hagrid on New Years Eve. That night I was actually in bed by 9pm after a long drive with a very unhappy cat.

What was your status by Valentine's Day?
single (but I had a great big orange 15 lb purring boy next to me, that is all I needed)

Were you in school (anytime this year)?
i took a couple of online classes, but not officially in school

Did you have to go to the hospital?
Interestingly there were many fewer visits ot the hospital this year (since I was not a company manager) I did go to visit my sister and new nephew Patrick.

Did you have any encounters with the police?
I was aparently a target this year. I got three tickets myself, then there was the drive home from Rhinebeck.

Where did you go on vacation?
I did make a visit to Bosotn.

What did you purchase that was over $500?
nothing. But I did pay off my Car!!!!!!!! I have the TITLE!!!!!!!!

Did you know anybody who got married?
My cousin Brent. . . . . and I think that is it.

Did you know anybody who passed away?
Yes.

Did you move anywhere?
Yup, I moved from NC to Boston.

What sporting events did you attend?
Nothing really.

Describe your birthday:
Enjoyable. I had a lovely morning by myself, then went to visit Jenny, Brian, and Ian and Jenny and I went ot a concert in Carborro to see one of my FAVORITE folk performers.

What's the one thing you thought you would never do but did in 2008?
Move back to New England (it was in the long term plan, but things happened much faster) quit my job (I was there for less than a year, I really wanted to make it work), Leave my direct access ot the performing arts industry. I am working for a ticketing software company now, but it isn't always the same. I gave up an amazing pet.

What has been your favorite moment(s)?
(described in photos)

What's something you learned about yourself?
I am a much better knitter than I thought, I can become financially independent, I have changed a lot in the past few years, and it may take others a bit to get used to the new me (I also may have to adjust back a bit to meet them in the middle), I really like being an aunt, I like city life. . . . . . . . a lot

Any new additions to your family?
Patrick, Charlotte, and Grace. . . .

What was your best month?
Wow, this has been a weird year with lots of ups and downs. aside from the wonderful additions, I don't know that any one month has been really great. Maybe October (that was Rhinebeck) but then again there was of course December (Patrick).

What music will you remember from 2008?

Made new friends?
Oh man!!!! Ravelry and knititng have brought so many wonderful people into my life. I cannot even begin to mention all of the names. if I met you through fiber, you are now my friend.

New best friend?
My best friends amaze me every day. They are moms, teachers, mentors, and the most supportive people I know. They will maintain their staus through it all.

Favorite night out?
The Girlyman concert wiht Jennifer, david Wilcox wiht Jenny, or the Rav party with Becca. A really tough call, Christine Lavin Concert with Jennifer, oh and did I mention that I spoke to Sondheim!!!!!!!!!!

Any regrets?
"Forget regret or life is yours to miss."

What do you want to change in 2008?
Finances, I really want them under control. I would like to be able to run three miles again (I did it three years ago, I can do it again).

Overall, how would you rate this year?
there were some wonderful highs

What would you change about 2008?
I could change a few moments, but then like a butterfly wing it would mess everything up. gotta live with what we have.

Other than home, where did you spend most of your time?
The Turnage, My car

Have any life changes in 2008?
Yup. Ne wjob, new address, new city, and I am an aunt.

Change your hairstyle?
lots of different colors. it has been fun

Have any car accidents?
my car got hit in a parking lot, but I was not in it. I also had a near miss on the drive from NC to home.

Buy a new car?
nope, but I paid off the old one.

New BF/GF?
No

Get a new job?
yes, and I love it.

Do you have a New Year's resolution?
of course, we will see how they go

Do anything embarrassing?
Sure, don't we all.

Buy anything new from eBay?
Sure did

What was your favorite purchase of 2008?
hmmmmmmm yarn, music, and my drop spindle

Get married or divorced?
No

Get arrested?
No

Be honest - did you watch American Idol?
yup

Did you get sick this year?
not really, I have been very healthy.

Start a new hobby?
spinning

Been snowboarding?
nope, I don't think that would be a good idea for me. . . do you? have you met me.? Did you hear what hte Wii fit said to me.

Drank Starbucks in 2008?
Oh yes

Are you happy to see 2008 go?
It has been a really rough year for me, but i have learned that my family and friends will support me thorugh anything. they have offered me everyhting fomr company, a shoulder to cry on, to an actual roof over my head. You never know what you have until you are kind of in the depths. I know what I have now, and I will never let it go.

Fingerless mitts

2008-12-29T23:19:00.001-05:00

Fingerless mitts
Originally uploaded by theatreknitter

YAY!!!!

This is my first complete pair of fingerless mitts for MEEEEEEE!!!!

They are the urban necessity mitts from subway knitter. They are made out of Malabrigo, the emerald colorway I believe. I knit them on 2 circs. I will do some more close-ups for you. I did a simple cable design along the edge of the mitten cap, it helped with the ladders that appeared (no matter how hard I tried) and it also added something nice.

the bind off on the mitten cap is all wrong, but I can live with that.

I will totally do this again. Sure, the fingers are a little annoying, I just won't make gloves for piano players .

t was fun, and I can't wait to show them off tomorrow night at knititng night.

Now I need a project to bring. AAAAA I have nothing on the needles. !!!!

The hats

2008-12-29T20:01:00.003-05:00

It has been a winter of hats for me. Lots of hats. I have decided that I really enjoy knitting hats. They are really fun. The first one was for my brother in law. He is a Cleavland Browns fan, so Rebecca asked me to make him a hat with his team colors. I could not be happier with how it came out. It is a perfect fit.

Then there was the hat for my step dad, he doesn't like to stand still. This was very special for me to knit. He got me some pure Llama fiber last year, and I made him this hat out of the fiber that he got for me. I think it is a bit too big, but he would not admit it. He seems to like it, I just hope he wears it.

The of course there are the gratuitous baby pictures. I made some hats for Rebecca. These are out of Dark Horse yarns Fantasy (I think this is my newest favorite acrylic) I made these hats to match the clapotis that I made for Rebecca

This hat is every one's favorite. At first it didn't seem to be Patrick's favorite at all.

But he seemed to start to like it more.

OH, I got gifts as well

2008-12-29T11:11:00.004-05:00

So yes, I did get some gifts for christmas as well, it wasn't all me knitting. In fact, it was a lovely christmas for me. I have to say, I LOVE giving gifts, and who doesn't love receiving them. I think it is extremely nice when family and friends listen and get you things that you will actually use and enjoy.

For instance, my sister jennifer is quite amazing. She hemmed and hawed and listened to my back nd forth (even called Becca) and in the end. . .

I GOT MY KA INTERCHANGABLES!!!!!!!!!!!
(I got hte case with the stars)

I am extremely psyched I love them.

Also, Mom got me a new suitcase. Oddly, with all of the traveling that I do, I don't own a rolling pull suitcase. Well I do now. It is great.

Dad is always there with the kitchen stuff, and this year was nothing short of perfect. I got a pressure cooker. I can't WAIT to try it out. Jen has it at home in CT right now, and she will be bringing it back. Also got a Gift Certificate to a yarn store in CT, will have to see the damage I can do there.

My cousin gave me some WONDERUL bath products fgrom Lush here in Bosotn. Oh my the sniffies, they are great.

My uncle totally surprised me by giving me the mill ends of 4 skeins of yarn from the 2 llama's and 2 alpaca's at his farm in CT. SO cool. I was so excited. I can't wait to try it out. I think I will be making a hat for him.

My grandmother has a wonderful tradition of giving us the Wallace Silversmith pewter Candy Cane ornaments every year. This year it is covered with wrapped presents. I love it.

OH, and mom also gave us gift certificates for 1 hour massages. Nothing could be better than that. !!!!

It really was a lovely holiday. Sure it is a long day, is there anyone with a large family that doesn't have a long day on Christmas day. Sure, staying home might be nice, but I don't think it would be the same for me without getting to see everyone, or at least as many people as possible.

Well, that was my day. how was yours?

I will post more of the knitted items later today. guess I should actually get some work done here.

Pink Ribbon Illusion Scarf

2008-12-28T07:38:00.005-05:00

First finished object gift was the Pink Ribbon illusion scarf. This is a WONDERFUL pattern by Short n Crafty Sista . As some of you may know, my mom is a breast cancer survivor. In fact, she has survived it twice. She has walked in the Avon Breast Cancer walks countless times. (Insert Shameless plug for donations to her 2009 walk here)

Well, when I saw this pattern I just could not resist.

One of these days I will start being better about recording yarns that I use. This project was done with 2 different weight yarns. The darker pink is Cascade 220, the lighter pink I have completely forgotten. It was nice to work with, though it was very loosely woven and tended to split easily. Also to finish the project I folded in the edges because it was just too un-even.

To add to this project, I added another element. When a person, any person, goes through cancer treatment they are never alone. No matter how alone they may feel, someone is behind them. Well my mom had so many people that supported her through everything. This scarf is kind of like that. You see, you can't see the ribbon unless you are looking for it. You don't necessarily know you are talking to a cancer survivor, kind of like how you do not know that there is a ribbon hidden in this pattern until you take an extra moment.

So I have had many people wear this scarf.

Christine Lavin. My mom loves music, always has it playing. I saw Christine a few months back, and she graciously wore the scarf for me.

The author Anne Hood. In my opinion, an incredibly strong woman.

A Family Friend

Bob and Dee, who have been supporting mom on the walks for so many years.

My Friend Mike.

And here she is with it . . . . . .

Multi post post

2008-12-27T18:17:00.003-05:00

Well, so much happened this week, it feels like it has been 3 weeks in one. This first post will be completely devoted to the best christmas gift our family could have received. That is Patrick

A bit of background, without TMI. My sister Rebecca and her husband have been trying for so long to have a little one. They went through many rounds of fertility treatments. Patrick is such a gift to them, and of course the rest of us as well.

So here he is

He really is an angel. He slept the entire day and was perfectly content to be in someone's arms being held. He is still having some issues telling night from day, he s quite nocturnal, but he is so wonderful.

Many knitted items to share, and they will each get their own post.

On a not as happy note, I have heard of two young sons that have lost their dad's this christmas season. One I do not know at all, but I know his mom through the knitting blogs. The other is my favorite nine year old. Please keep him in your thoughts. While he has not seen his dad in a few years, there is no way to make this easy for him.

Failed fishnets

2008-12-19T21:55:00.001-05:00

Failed fishnets
Originally uploaded by theatreknitter

GRRRRRRRRRR

that is pretty much all I can say right now. trying not to get too bummed. thankfully, the gift is for a friend. I already got her another gift for christmas. This was something fun for her. I can properly measure her leg and make them correctly to fit her.

In general they are too big. Now truth be told, she has a bigger leg than I, but there are downright baggie. The toe is uncomfortable. I think I will make an actual "foot bottom" for lack of a better term rather than have it be netting all around the foot.

Then there is the bind off. I did exactly as it said, it is tight on me.

So, best laid plans. Oh well. Thankfully when I see this person next week I can say.

Okay, this was supposed ot be for christmas, but they will be later. Now give me our leg.

Background, this is my friend who regularly goes to burlesque shows in new york, She will wear these.

Oh, and they will be knit in the round.

Okay. Am I bummed that I took the time on these, yes I am. I could, and should, have bene working on another project that I have EXACTLY 5 days to finish. And you can pretty much write off christmas even unless I can hide out to get it finished, and that is not as easy as it sounds.

grrrrrrrrrrrr

I WILL have all of my gift knitting finished this year. no yarn ends, no IOU's, nothing.

The fish nets don't count.

Sanford Patrick James Raymond

2008-12-19T17:35:00.001-05:00

Sanford Patrick James Raymond
Originally uploaded by theatreknitter

Here he is!!!!!

He is actually perfect. i got to meet Patrick today. He was born yesterday at 3:52pm. 6 lbs 11 oz and 19 inches long. He decided to keep everyone on their toes. his hear-trate dropped with each contraction so they decided to do a C-section. He was pressing down on the cord, though they can't figure out how (it was around his feet where it is supposed to be)

mom, baby, and dad are doing great. I saw him today and he slept the entire time.

We are all in love, and he is the perfect Christmas gift.

In this picture her REALLY looks like his daddy.

snack swap

2008-12-16T06:56:00.001-05:00

snack swap
Originally uploaded by theatreknitter

WOW I can believe the generosity of the folks in the snack swap. My partner was Roo.

So much chocolaty goodness. I am looking forward to trying it. I will keep you all informed.

My desk

2008-12-15T09:03:00.001-05:00

My desk
Originally uploaded by theatreknitter

Just in case anyone wanted to know what I keep at my desk every day. Here it is.

My window is wonderful (I frequently spy on the folks across the street) In general seeing the weather makes me happy. The picture on the stand is me jumping out of an airplane. I can remember it like it was yesterday. It reminds me not to take things to seriously. I have two computer monitors (Yup, I work in support. I stare at computer screens all day long. Jealous? )

Water bottle that I will empty two to three times a day. I talk a lot. (No really it is my job to talk all of the time.)

The other two pictures are of Lorelai. Her mom is just too cool and comes up with wonderful cards to send to people. I am looking forward to adding Patrick to the mix. Should add Ian and Will as well. Not so much to add clutter, that isn't it at all. It reminds me to take some time OFF from work. Reminds me that these little ones will grow FAR to fast. You may notice from the picture on my computer screen, that is Lorelai WALKING!!!!!!

The white cord leads to the i-phone, which leads to the music that MUST be playing.

So now you can see a little bit into my bed.

(Oh, I keep the knitting in the bag or I would be looking at it all day and want to knit all of the time)

Don't forget about the staff at your SNB

2008-12-14T20:15:00.001-05:00

Swirly cupcake
Originally uploaded by theatreknitter

Do you knit in a public establishment? Are you one of those groups that take over the premium seating at the town coffee shop once a week? Are their people glaring at you as they wait for seats while you fondle the yarn of your friends?

Keep these things in mind this holiday season. The South End Knitters are making small gifts for the staff of Flour. They are so great to us. They never give us a hard time, in fact we think they like us.

This is one of the cupcakes that we make for them, we also made some mini-stockings .

One of these things is not like the other

2008-12-11T07:56:00.001-05:00

My Amazing dinner
Originally uploaded by theatreknitter

So soon I promise I will post some knitting news. Pretty much everything I am working on is for Christmas gifts. I am not sure of the people that may drop by my blog, so I just want to be safe. I will wait till Christmas to post all of the knitting.

So last night was our office Christmas Party. Coming from the non-profit world of pot luck parties with Secret Santa, the profit world most certainly does Christmas Parties differently.

We went to a restaurant called Grill 23 in Boston's Back Bay. I got there a bit early so that I could wander around the neighborhood. I SOOO don't belong in that neighborhood. But it was very pretty and nice.

I was wandering around a bit outside of the restaurant's and noticed that right next to this Jacket required establishment is the Salvation Army Shelter. Really, seriously. How many people walking into this over-priced place notice that the people next door are probably getting soup and a roll for dinner.

I am most certainly not saying that we shouldn't have had the Christmas party (and oh yes, the food was amazing, and I also drank top shelf tequila, I am no fool)

I guess there is a part of me that will always miss the non-profit world. The world here the company will adopt a family to make sure they have a nice Christmas, the world where you bring in your favorite dish to share with your co-workers, the world where you have a nice party to share each-others company. Not a party where people are literally trying to get the bill higher by ordering ridiculously expensive scotch's (that apparently was last year, and the bill was like $4,000 I don't think anyone pulled that this year)

Fishnets in progress

2008-11-28T07:50:00.001-05:00

Fishnets in progress
Originally uploaded by theatreknitter

this is a pair of fishmets from SMB Nation. I am making both stockings at the same time. I am really psyched with how it is working . I think the recipient will appreciate them.

Question to you knitters out there. Of course I am far from a perfect kniter and frequently I have to frog projects. My problem a that when I pick the stitches up they are twisted. How should I be picking the stitches up. I know that from a distance these twists are barely noticsble, but I can see them and if bugs me. Any suggestions.?

Auntie Carrie

2008-11-24T11:44:00.001-05:00

Auntie Carrie
Originally uploaded by theatreknitter

My pic from yesterday. . .

Man I can't wait to be an aunt. This is My cousin Carrie with her Niece Grace. Grace is 7 weeks old.

Hat for bro in law

2008-11-24T08:35:00.001-05:00

Hat for Hil
Originally uploaded by theatreknitter

well, this double knitting thing sort of rocks. I think I am becoming much more comfortable with my knitting. It doesn't feel like as much of a challenge anymore. In fact I think I am looking for was to make my projects more challenging. Adding a third strand, cabeling, making my own patterns.

The baby hats were a huge hit at the shower yesterday. I will post pics when P can model them.

Okay, I have stalled long enough. Off to work.

This means war

2008-11-21T09:22:00.001-05:00

This means war
Originally uploaded by theatreknitter

The traveling fun fur strikes!!!!! how this landed in my bag after SNB I have no idea. wouldn't it make great cables???

pic of the day. . these could go together

2008-11-20T23:06:00.001-05:00

photo.jpg
Originally uploaded by theatreknitter

Thursday is knitting night at Flour. This is always a fun night. Good food, laughs, and sometimes we even get knitting done. this project is one that Beth is working on. We are still trying to determine if the colors actually go together, but they were put together by the yarn manufacturer, so we shall see.

We will take a week off for the Thanksgiving Holiday. . . What will we do.
Guess we will actually have o get some knitting done.

christmas is coming

2008-11-19T10:32:00.001-05:00

photo
Originally uploaded by theatreknitter

look close, really close. . . . . . the window on the top right that is lit up. Do you see it. . ? ? ? It is a Christmas Tree!!!!!!

You just have to look carefully. sometimes it isn't righ tin front of your face, christmas is all around.

(Like that silly song from Love Actually)

soup to knits roving

2008-11-19T08:08:00.001-05:00

soup to knits roving
Originally uploaded by theatreknitter

oooooo I so love surprises int he mail. Thanks to nutmegknitter and the chum I was referred to soup to knits on etsy. Well I am certainly pleased. LOOK AT ALL OF THAT ROVING!!!!!

This is my first time actually purchasing roving, so I was unaware what the weight would look like (I am also incredibly visual, I don't do weights and measures well)

so for $12.50 9which included the shipping) I received. She also included her color card with the purchase.

So here you go, I highly reccommend it. What will it become ????

Well that is a secret (and the recipient is a reader of my blog)

You will find out soon.

Got milk

2008-11-18T10:08:00.001-05:00

Got milk
Originally uploaded by theatreknitter

Another pic from my walk to work. How often do you see an oversized milk bottle? I get to see one every day . I have no idea why it is there, or what purpose it serves, but it is fun isn't it??

pic a day

2008-11-17T21:58:00.001-05:00

Pic a day fire museum
Originally uploaded by theatreknitter

Well, now that I will officially always have my camera on me (Because I own an iphone) I can actually attempt to take a picture every day. Today I decided to walk to work I decided that if I am going to attempt to get some exercise we have to take small steps, or at least 1.5 miles of small steps. . .

So today I popped in the new Iphone, and then off I went.

I enjoyed my walk, and noticed all sorts of new things. Of course this stood out to me. There are so many things that make up our lives. One thing I will remember is being dragged into Fire museums when we were kids. Dad always wanted to go and visit them. I guess now I see them and think of those times.

So here you have it, the boston fire museum.