Charm City Knits

A Dinosaur Scarf for my little guy.....

2011-01-25T09:11:00.000-08:00

who is not so little anymore. My youngest turned 10 on the 11th. 10!!!! I can hardly believe it! I promised him a Critter Knit from Morehouse Farms ages ago. I finally purchased the Dinosaur Scarf Kit in the Fall 2010 (just so you know it was recent purchase and not purchased in the Fall some many odd years back, lol!).

The kit was such fun. Potato chip knitting at it's finest. It was so much fun to see the jaws take place and the join for the top and bottom jaws along with the tongue was just genius! The pattern was clear, easy to read and broken down appropriately. Knitting the spikes was addictative.

It is probably just a tab bit babyish for my 5'4" 10 yo (I know, 5"4"!!!! He's going to be a giant!!), but he still states he loves it and will cherish the hand knit from Mommy (he just may not wear it out of the house until he's at an age where he doesn't care what other's think. I can see that he has just started to care about what other people think, hopefully it won't last long - life it too short to get caught up on conforming with the herd. Individuality is the spice of life!).

My (not so) little guy and his dino scarf.

We still need to pick out buttons for his eyes. The kit inclued felt to be cut into circles but a saw a few on Ravelry with button eyes and we decided to go that route.

Favorite Christmas Ornaments

2011-01-11T08:05:00.001-08:00

Ornament gifted to me by one of my knit group girlies!! Love it!! Isn't she so crafty!!! :)

Angel bought at Rhinebeck 2010.

Christmas Knits and their Recipients

2010-01-05T11:43:00.000-08:00

Niece and her Bella Mittens

Nephew and his Thermis (this was one of the better pictures! lol)

BIL and his Thermis

Kraken for youngest, I :heart: him!!

Youngest showing the Kraken love; hamming it up for the camera. lol

Christmas Knitting 2009

2009-12-22T10:18:00.001-08:00

Coming down to the wire.......so far I've completed the following:

Thermis x 4 (only 3 pictured)

Multnomah #2 - #4 (#5 still on needles)

One of my niece's Bella Mittens
.

Multnomah #2

2009-11-16T06:58:00.000-08:00

I love this pattern!!! Such a quick knit. #2 knitted in a day!!! A DAY!!! Started Saturday afternoon and finished Sunday afternoon. Christmas knit #2 done.

Unblocked, knit in Claudia Handpainted Fingering Weight Yarn - Eat Your Veggies, 175 yards, 2 skeins (total 350 yds.

Only 7 repeats of the lace section as I was running out of yarn.

Multnomah, Hello Knitty

2009-11-05T06:39:00.001-08:00

MULTNOMAH

STOLE

MY

HEART!!

Anyone who is looking for a quick knit, easily memorizable, and portable - this is it! This is probably the fastest project I have ever knit and so portable....I carried it with me everywhere.

I.AM.SO.IN.LOVE.WITH.THIS.SHAWL!!!

Happy Halloween!!!

2009-10-30T13:02:00.000-07:00

DOC OCK

My little guy
Halloween 2009

Go Baltimore RAVENS!!! Team Love! :)

2009-10-23T10:30:00.000-07:00

Pictures of my finished RAVENS Scarf. I started it for a Christmas present for my girlfriend who is crazy over the RAVENS (football/sports/etc) but I think I likie! :o

It looks nice with my shirt and it would be a great accessory when I go out with my "football" friends to watch football! :D

Don't I look cute? ;)

Asher loves my scarf too! :)

Here he's trying to drag it away with him. lol

Silly cat!!

Who loves the Linen Jeans Mobius Cardigan?

2008-05-06T11:20:00.000-07:00

It is from Berroco: Norah Gaughan Volume 2

I think I might have to add this to my Ravelry Queue.

Only two sleeves and one side of the button band left on my Forecast.

Swatchin' Baybeeeeeeeee

2008-01-17T17:16:00.000-08:00

Swatching for Forecast. Something to break up the issues I'm having w/ Hanami. I completed 3 repeats of the basket weave section and started a fourth that I had to rip out - I keep telling myself that once I complete the basket weave section the rest of the stole will be a breeze! Let's hope I'm right!

Hello....my name is _______ and I have a Yarn Addiction

2007-12-06T13:22:00.000-08:00

Seriously I have issues. Ravelry brought them to light as I had a way to keep track of my stash. I am ashamed.

I have 46 items list on Ravelry to sell. I'm hoping to use the money towards Christmas.

Check it out: http://www.ravelry.com/people/charmcityknits/stash/trade

Love, Hate and Flag Football

2007-10-08T07:15:00.000-07:00

My little guy is on a flag football league. I was happy to have some time with Hanami as I've neglected her for about a week now as she's driving me crazy.

I admit that Hanami and I are having a love/hate relationship. Lately it has been a more hate hate relationship. I totally love the end product of this stole. I would love to finish her as she is lovely but after working on her for a few weeks now, I have just complete my first (yes, I said 1st) repeat of the basket weave section. I'm elated and annoyed at the same time. Why oh why am I having such difficulty with this stole. Maybe Hanami is a jealous lady and doesn't want me to share our time.............maybe she wants to push me over the edge.....I was seconds from frogging her this weekend. I will not let her get the best of me.

One down...................six more to go (sob! - I can do it, I think I can - I think I can - I think I can).

Hanami Progress

2007-09-21T07:11:00.000-07:00

I had a rough start with my Hanami. I cast on and knit the 6 garter stitch rows 10 million times (okay, it was really like 9 time, YES 9 TIMES!!!), then I would start my 1st row of the basket weave chart and have four stitches left over. I'd pull back, re-cast on my 99 stitches; knit the 6 rows, row 1 of Chart A - four stitches left over. Frog, cast-on on 99, knit 6 row, row 1 Chart A - extra four stitches.............ummm anyone seeing a pattern here? The cast on was for 95 stitches, how I read 95 as 99, 9 different times is a mystery to me (clueless). I am halfway through my 1st repeat of Chart A and I'm loving it. I decided to go w/ metal needles in a US 4. I splurged for the Addi lace needles which I absolutely L-O-V-E!!

I used size 8/0 silver lined clear beads on the edge and absolutely adore them. I have to agree with Melanie, they look like tiny droplets of water.

I think I'll be behind most of you as we progress unless I turn into a turbo knitting goddess and crank out 6.5 repeats of Chart A this weekend. I'm thinking the chances are slim to none but who knows, the Knitting Gods may smile on me. :)

I've been invited..............

2007-09-18T11:09:00.000-07:00

to RAVELRY!!!!

Time to get all my yarn and projects organized!!!! :)

Woo Hoo!!!

Love of Lace

2007-09-07T06:28:00.000-07:00

Finally a photo of my completed Branching Out.
Here's a close up of the lace. After this project I was ready to tackle are larger lace project.

I saw and instantly fell in love with Melanie's Hanami Stole. Beautiful!!!!

I found some gorgeous Sundara lace weight, Chery Blossoms colorway no less, and joined the Hanami KAL.

I'm in the process of swatching which I despise, but feel is worth the effort for my stole to turn out as lovely as the other's I've seen.
.

Glee Done!!!!

2007-06-01T15:38:00.000-07:00

I started Glee the Thursday before Good Friday and finished her the week prior to Mother's Day Weekend. She took me about 5 weeks to knit but not steadily and not everyday. I was pretty impressed with the speed in which she was knit since I didn't work on her every second of everyday as I had first planned.

I'm not sure how I feel about her. I added about 1 1/2 inches to the sleeves as me and cap sleeves do not get along. I only choose to sew the hook of the hook & eye on and loop it into the knit stitch. I think I'm going to go back and sew the hook on as they kept coming unhooked from my stitches which became annoying. I steamed block her and wore her the next day. The cotton seemed to stretch a bit and I'm not sure if I like the loose fit, it feels kind of sloppy. My neckline doesn't stay up, it folds down which I'm not sure if I like or not. Also, my neckline is a bit rippled and I'm thinking I should have gone down another needles size. Lolly spoke of the same problem with her Glee and she ripped and re-knit. I had thought I'd be able to deal with mine as it's not quite as bad but I haven't worn her since our trip to OC.

Here'a picture I managed to take of myself. I may have the boys try to snap a few other pictures to give you all a better look.

What do you think?

I was wisked away to OC for Mother's Day Weekend. We had a great time and I was able to start Branching Out while the boys had a blast in the hotel pool!! Hours of uninterrupted knitting what a treat!! :)

My first lace project. I'm enjoying it immensely. I've had to stop and frog a bit here and there when I lose my place but I think she is going to be beautiful! I'm thinking of gifting her to the boys' adopted Grandmom for all her help this year taking my little one back and forth to speech therapy.

Socks, socks, and more socks!!!!!

2007-04-29T17:35:00.000-07:00

I received these lovely socks from one of the knitter's on the Knitty boards. A while back I offered sock yarn to knitter's who were interested in knitting socks for free sock yarn. I had amassed quite a collection of sock yarn but hadn't knit a pair. It was a great way to stash bust while receiving some lovely hand knit socks!!!

I had actually started these as my first pair of handknit socks and couldn't get past the large amount of stitches and the cast on of the Diamond Top Socks pattern from Knit Picks. The socks turned out lovely and fit like a dream!!!!! I love them!!!!

It's very hard to take a good photo of your foot.

Here's another try; at least I get an A for effort.

Diamond Top Socks, knitted in Knit Picks Gloss (Burgandy) by DarbyRose.

Oh BTW, I'm destashing. Let me know if you see anything you'd like.

Where does the time go?

2007-04-18T16:25:00.000-07:00

First off, CAMERA found!!!!! I was over my parent's house on Easter and mentioned I misplaced my digital camera. My Mother reminded me that I left it at her house at Christmas, yes Christmas, and I asked her to put it up for me. "Don't I remember?" Obviously not as I've been tearing my house apart looking for it. Needless to say, I wish I would have mentioned it to her earlier.

So this post will have some PICTURES!!! Yipee!!!

First off a few pics of some sock I got in the "knit socks for yarn swap".

Elfine socks in Mama's E Chocolate colorway knitted by Tigerlilith
Mountain Colors Bearfoot Sock Pattern & Yarn; Colorway: Yellowstone (forgive me I can't remember the knitter at the moment - need to check my notes, will update later.

Received just today!!!!

Monkey Socks in Socks That Rock - Carbon knitted by Stariel
Love, love these socks!!!!

I've been working on Glee from Zephyr Style. This is my first top down sweater; it's been a dream now that I'm past all the stockinette. Not looking forward to picking up the many many many stitches necessary for the collar but a girl's gotta do what a girl's gotta do.

Got a new bag!!! Made w/ Amy Butler fabric. I love, love, love her fabric designs! I'm dying to make a quilt from her Sunbloom Lush collection but am having difficulty figuring out when I'm supposed to fit it in with all my planned knits.

Larger Image
Interior

Misplaced Digital Camera............ugh

2007-03-14T17:20:00.000-07:00

Ton of stuff to list on DESTASH!! I wish I could find my dang camera - hopefully I'll run accross it this weekend.

Actual knitting going on but I can't show you progress as I have misplaced my digital camera. My camera has been in hiding for a few weeks.......I really need to make the time to search for it but things have been very busy.

Hopefully next post will include some knitting progress pictures.

I've been a sloth................

2007-01-29T17:23:00.000-08:00

Unfortunately this post will have no pics as I misplaced my digital camera and I'm too much of slug to look for it at the moment.

I have received four pairs of additional gorgeous hand knitted socks from the knit socks for yarn swap and they are gorgeous! I will post pix once I find the dang camera!

There has been some knitting action. I've started Fetching and have finished one glove. What a quick fun knit; I hope to have the second completed in the next day or two as time allows. Calorimetry is next on my list. I have some left over Noro that I think will make a great little cap/scarf/whatever you want to call it; ear warmers?

I promise there will be pictures in the next post.

Christmas came early!!!

2006-12-11T15:22:00.000-08:00

I am at a loss for words. Aren't they just beautiful!!!!

Jaywalkers in Claudia's Hand Painted Yarn - Passion Fruit by the lovely stariel from the Knitty Boards.

Pomatomus in Mama E in the colorway Maybelle knitted by the lovely luv2knit2 also from the Knitty Boards.

These are the first two pairs of socks from my "knit me a pair of socks get FREE sock yarn swap". I am very happy with how these socks turned out, they fit so well. Thank you very much ladies - I love them!!! :)

I've caught the WAVE!!!!

2006-12-05T15:35:00.000-08:00

I finally started my Christmas knitting. I've decided to knit Wavy from Knitty for one of the ladies at work. We draw a name each year so I thought I'd give her some hand knitted goodness. I'm using Lorna Laces in the Jeans colorway. I bought this yarn off ebay and it came w/ a 2 sided knitted cable pattern that I find too confusing. Maybe it's the pressure of being under the Christmast Party deadline(December 22nd) but I just wasn't feeling the knitting love so I put frogged it and decided to go with Wavy. I'm only on row 5 (lol! :)) but I find it be a fun knit and I'm enjoying the ease of the pattern
Oh, did you see my sock that tigerlilith finished. It is beautiful!! I just love it!!! (Thanks Lilith) One down, one to go and some knitted sock goodness will be on it's way home to mama!! Yeah baby!! This was such a fun swap; I get some beautiful knitted socks and my swapee (or is it swaper? whatever)gets some lovely FREE sock yarn. Love it!!

SO EXCITED - There will be sock knitted goodness in my future!!!!!

2006-11-26T08:46:00.000-08:00

The wonderful knitters over on the Knitty boards thought my "knit a pair of socks for a FREE skein of sock yarn" was a good deal and now I have NINE (9) lovely, wonderful, speedy sock knitters throughout the US, Canada, and Europe knitting me warm sock goodness. I can't tell you how excited I am!!!!

Unrealistic expectations.............Part II

2006-11-12T06:28:00.000-08:00

I had this huge deadline the other day at work and I was convinced, just convinced I was going to make it. Of course, I based my schedule strictly on my ability to as opposed to taking into consideration that the printer, copier, assistant might not cooperate. Needless to say they didn't.

My knitting of late has been something like that. I have very good intentions. I joined Lolly's Socktober Fest. The Ariann and Simple Fitted Bodice knit-a-long. I cast on for the my socks on the 29th of October or something equally crazing and haven't started either Ariann or SFB. I guess life, appliances, or equipment get in the way and my goals/time line is VERY UNREALISTIC.

Therefore I've decided to destash and take some of the pressure off. I have tons of yarn and project sitting around and the stress is beginning to wear on me. I have sweaters and yarn for projects I've planned years ago while still amassing more patterns and yarn for future projects.

Sock Yarn - boy do I have sock yarn and haven't knitted a single pair. Do you think
aquick niffy sock knitter be interested in knitting me a pair of sock for a FREE skein of yarn. Could they be tempted w/ the Cherry Tree Hill, Mama E, or the various handpainted yarn I have from Yarn Pirate, Socks that Rock, Sunshine's, TwinkleToes, or snagged off E-bay.

Stash pics for sell or trade coming soon!!

Socktoberfest............I've yet to begin; YIKES!

2006-10-24T19:22:00.000-07:00

Swatching Gloss for my Socktoberfest socks..........started w/ US 1 circs, dropped down to US0 dpns. I still don't think I'm getting gauge so tomorrow, when I can see straight and I'm not so sleepy I'll recount my stitches.

Some sock stash enhancement; I may never finish my socks in time but I've got the sock yarn stash enhancement down flat, BAYBEEEEE!!!!! Mountain Colors Bearfoot in Indian Corn. I am all about the fall color schemes at the moment.

Some Manos for a scarf; color#104. I'm not sure if I like it or not, definitely now my normal colors - it's the gold that is throwing me off.

And finally my WLD Krista Tee seamed without sleeves. She's been soaked and is currently blocking. I hope to finish the sleeves prior to week's end and wear her ever so proudly over the weekend or early next. Of course with the chilly days we've been having around Charm City she'll be hidden under a jacket or coat; what a shame.

Soctoberfest II

2006-10-01T19:19:00.000-07:00

Today is the beginning of Lolly's Socktoberfest!!! I'm excited. I'm going to use my gift certificate from the lovely ladies at work for some of Knit Picks' new Gloss sock yarn and 24" US 1 circs. Going to try my first pair of socks on a set of circs. I just love my Circs!!!!

I'm almost finished the front of Krista. I've knit and re-knit the front top about five times........I am so ready to be done with this sweater. It really is a simple straight forward knit that I'm making completely difficult! lol

Simple Knitted Bodice is next on my list......I was late for the September 1st start on the KAL but I'll make it in October; then I'm on to ChicKnits new pattern Ariann. Isn't she lovely? I have some Silkroad Tweed I'm going to attempt to use, wish me luck getting gauge.

Socktoberfest

2006-09-18T16:23:00.000-07:00

In hope that I might actually knit a sock, I joined Lolly's Soctoberfest. I'm excited. The ladies in my office gave me a gift certificate to Knit Picks for my birthday. I think I'm going to try out some of their new sock yarn and a set of their needles. My first pair of socks on two circs, think it's too daring?

Here's the sock yarn on the 1st level of the home.....I told you I'm a bit of a collector! ;)

Mama E's C*Eye*Ber Fiber in the following colorways: Pretty in Pink, May-belle, Knittin' Mom, Augustus, Driftwood and Fall Foilage.

Brooklyn Handspuns Polished Pebbles.

Eby Store Over The Rainbow Yarns: Autumn and Bark

Claudia Handpainted Yarn: Chocolate Cherries Colorway

Trekking XXL in Color 110*.

*Trekking XXL Color 110 shown on 100% Pura Lana Blog.

Lookie Lookie what I got in the mail yesterday.........

2006-09-09T10:39:00.000-07:00

My Tilli Tomas Pure & Simple in Ruby Wine!!!!

Gorgeous.................so soft.........such a beautiful deep color!!!

I'm in love!

Waiting on my Pure & Simple...........

2006-09-07T15:37:00.000-07:00

Order shipped USPS (2 day Priority Mail): September 5, 2006

Okay is that 2 days from the day the order was shipped or in addition too? I expected my yarn to arrive today. Of course I had to leave work early to run my boys to the doctor's, but as of 1:00 pm est - no yarn. :(

I'm hoping that it will be waiting for me when I go into work tomorrow!

Unrealistic expectations.............

2006-09-04T19:17:00.000-07:00

In my mind, which is a great place to be, I was sure I would finish the front of my Krista Tee this weekend. I mean it was a 3, THREE, day weekend. It made complete sense that I could have committed the entire weekend to finishing Krista; in my mind that is.

Of course I didn't factor in the boys or birthday celebrations or the Maryland State Fair. Nor did I even fathom that I might actually take an afternoon siesta two out of three days.

Here is Krista's progress...........I am/was almost finished the lace at the bottom of the front when I realized I had cast on w/ the larger of the two needles as opposed to the smaller. Looks like I'll be ripping this out in the morning.

In other news, it looks like my Pure & Simple will be shipped out tomorrow for Stitch Diva's Fitted Bodice. I'm giving myself this week to finish Krista and hope to cast on next Sunday or Monday.

Still obesessing.......and obesessing........

2006-08-30T18:42:00.000-07:00

I'm still trying to decide on which yarn to use for Stitch Diva's Fitted Bodice. I've fallen in love w/ many silk/wood blends but couldn't decide on one to substitute and then begun to worry whether I would get gauge with my chosen yarn. I thought about trying the Andean Silk from KnitPicks but really wanted to make sure I picked a yarn/color that I loved and one I wouldn't regret using for whatever reason. Of course, I more or less ruled out the Tilli Thomas Pure & Simple because of cost. THEN.........................I received these.

OMG!!! The Tilli Thomas Pure & Simple is to die for!!! The depth of the colors; the sheen of the silk; the touch.........heaven. Sarah at Sarah's Yarns was kind enough to send me the color cards as I was obesessing about the colors and which one to use should I decide to spend the $$$ - etc...etc..(It's just a continous cycle that goes on and on and is never ending).

I am HAPPY to report that I will be, in about a week's time, the proud owner of 5 skeins of Tilli Thomas Pure & Simple in Ruby Wine for my Fitted Bodice. I'm so in love with the yarn that I'm already planning a long sleeved version in either Jade or one of the blues as soon as Ruby (Yes, I'm going to call my sweater Ruby) is off the needles.

BTW - The colors of the Andean Silk are lovely. Hollyberry is close to the Ruby Wine with less sheen as it is 55% Super Fine Alpaca, 23% Silk, 22% Merino Wool. I do like the Andean Silk and will use it for a future project but for SD's Fitted Bodice I decided to splurge on the Pure & Simple.

Fini...Done...Early!!!! Woo Hoo!!!

2006-08-24T19:32:00.000-07:00

Well my sis's birthday gift is done!!

TWITTERPATED from Zephyr Style

Beaded Handles from Gibson Girl Design.
Aren't they gorgeous.

I am more or less happy with how this turned out. I sewed the lining in in a hurry and didn't measure. I just kinda eyed it as I went and didn't do too good of a job of it. It turned out to be smaller at the top thereby causing me to have to bunch the fabric a bit in the back left corner. It looks okay. I'm not sure if I'm happy with it. I'm still trying to decide if I'm going to rip it out and re-sew. I'll sleep on it. :)

There will be a PINK Twitterpated in my future.

I'm a joiner!!!! :)

2006-08-23T16:18:00.000-07:00

Now if I can just figure out how to put it on my side bar. :)

Missed it by a front and two sleeves

2006-08-20T16:59:00.000-07:00

Well today is my birthday!!!!!

Great day!! Spent a lovely time with my boys and then dinner and cake + presents over my parents house. Only thing missing was Twin A who unfortunately had vacations plans over our birthday weekend.

Ummmm........okay Twin A wasn't the only thing missing.......er...WLD Krista Tee was absent. Well she wasn't absent but only the back of her was present.....I still have the front and two sleeves to go so I didn't make my knitting deadline. While I'm a bit bummed she isn't done to wear to work tomorrow w/ my new birthday pants, with all that has been going on around here at CCKs, I'm not the bit surprised. I believe I started her on July the 16th or 17th, however I've only knit on her a handful of days. I must be more dedicated to the front so I can git'er done, as they say. I hope to finish the sleeves tonight. Wish me luck!! :)

Stitch Diva's Fitted Bodice (by Stefanie Japel)

2006-08-08T16:36:00.000-07:00

I COULDN'T RESIST. It is too lovely for words.

Stitch Diva's Fitted Bodice

YARN:
Jo Sharp Silkroad Aran - I'm really hoping I can get gauge with this puppy as it is heavenly.

Berroco Softwist - substitute yarn per pattern, it's silky but my fear is it will be very slippery. We'll see.

Mama-E'sC*Eye*Ber Fiber Sock in Fall Foilage*. I thinking of knitting the Diamond Fantasy Scarf as it only takes 350 yards for the "scarf" and as Stephanie Pearl-McPhee aka "The Yarn Harlot"states it's a shawl to her.

Knitty's KAL
Crafter's KAL

*Mama-E's yarn are now being carried at Cloverhill Yarn Shop. Woo Hoo E!!!!

deja vu'

2006-08-02T18:17:00.000-07:00

Main Entry:
Pronunciation: "dA-"zh�-'v�, -'v[ue]
Function: noun
Etymology: French, adjective, literally, already seen
1 a : the illusion of remembering scenes and events when experienced for the first time b : a feeling that one has seen or heard something before
2 : something overly or unpleasantly familiar

I'm reliving this portion of the Krista Pattern over and over again. Reminds me of the movie

Ground Hog Day.

Monday
Lunch w/ girls - chugging away on Krista
Evening - find a mistake; frog 3 - 6 rows, re-knit.
Tuesday
Lunch w/ girls - chugging away on Krista
Evening - find a mistake; frog 3 - 6 rows, re-knit.
Wednesday
Lunch w/ girls - chugging away on Krista
Evening - find a mistake; frog 3 - 6 rows, re-knit.

Anyone see a pattern here? I replay the lunch conversation in my mind nightly; I can't remember anything that may have cause my attention to wavier from Krista. Is she a jealous sweater? Will I have to hideout in my cubicle so Krista can feel all the love while at work? I'm frazzled, she's not a difficult knit; easy pattern; repetitive; memorized instantly. Could she think I'm taking her for granted?

Krista, my love, I solemnly vow you will have my undivided attention from this day forward. I shan't participate in evil gossip with the girls at lunch; nor shall I attempt to run out and pick-up lunch taking precious moments from our time together. You are the one, the only one.

Krista Progress

2006-07-26T19:47:00.000-07:00

Decisions..........decisions

2006-07-18T17:32:00.001-07:00

If any of you were wondering about my Tubular Camisole. I finally have a few pics. My big guy, he just turned 12 btw, helped me take a few pics over the weekend. I was a little bummed when seeing the pics as I think the front looked pretty good over my T-shirt, but, as you see, the back is HUGE!!!!

Still undecided with what I'm going to do. Options: 1) Frog, 2)Gift to someone, 3) Possibly take it in somehow or 4) Throw it in the washer and see what happens (100% wool). I think with #4 it would just shrink it in height not width which is what I need.

I finally started the Krista Tee from White Lies Designs. I'm loving the pattern. I got my knitting mojo working I think it is going to be a pretty quick knit. The pattern is easy enough to sail through quickly but w/ enough variations on the stitches that it keeps your interest.

Just because..............me and my boys.

Lovin' the Fabric

2006-07-09T17:41:00.000-07:00

I have almost finished my sister's Twitterpated.

So now my thought are turning to fabric for the lining and what to use for handles. I have been silently coveting some Amy Butler fabric for some time. Ginger Bliss and Charm are gorgeous but I was in the mood to actually see, feel, touch the fabric so I was off to Joann's. While I didn't find anything close to the Amy Butler Fabric, I was happy with my purchase. All have a vintagey 60's kinda feel which is working for me.

click here for larger image

The pink and brown (#1 from left) and the brown multi-colored (#3 from left) are my options for the taupe purse. The yellow multi-colored (#2 from left - center) is for the pink yarn. The fabric is fun and I think goes well w/ the design.

Now I'm having issues w/ handles. Joann's are vinyl which are okay but I'm wondering if I should splurge on leather handles or maybe beaded handles like Norma used on her Sophie Bag. Aren't they beautiful? They are from Gibson Girl Design.

Hmmmmmm.......what to do. Any opinions?

The 4th

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

There is nothing like a few days off of work spending time w/ your kids and family, friends, etc...............

I've been knitting up Twitterpated as a gift for my sis. We turn the big 3-6 on the 20th of August. Did I ever mention I'm a twin? Yep, I am.

I have about 6 inches or so to go and then I'm more or less FINITO except for the handle and the lining. I think this will be the first time in history that I finished a knitted gift prior to the actual birthday!!! Woo Hoo Baybee!!!!

Just because I think we were adorable, I'll share a baby pic.

Can you guess which one is me?

Knitting Action

2006-06-21T16:59:00.000-07:00

It will probably amaze the majority of you but there has been some actually knitting going on at CCK.

For Mother's Day I knitted my sister the flower washcloth from Weekend Knitting. It was so much fun watching it come together. I missed out on the Chocolate Soap from Simpler Thyme when I was at the MSWF but ordered some on-line to include in her gift as she is a chocolate junkie.

I finally finished Stefanie's Camisole Tube, however I was disappointed, okay very disappointed that it was too big for me. Strike that, it was HUGE!!!!! I knitted the large and it was at least 4 inches too wide. It actually fell, gaped and pooled it was so big. Blocking it must relaxed the stitches which I'm sure added to the size issue. I used a lovely wool yarn called blackberry that I got from Purl in CA, I think. Anyway I love the color too much to pass on onto a girlfriend, so I'll be frogging it and re-knitting in smaller size in the future. My sister has also put in a request for a brown one.

I am winding yarn tonight for my next two projects which will be worked w/ stash yarn. Okay one stash yarn and one recently acquired stash yarn; so recent that it's still in the mailing envelope!! I'm probably the last one to jump on board the Jaywalker wagon but I'm going to give it a go in Mama E's Pretty In Pink colorway. Isn't her yarn YUMMY!!! And boy on boy how I wish I could go on the SEA SOCKS Cruise 2007 she's helped put together.

Project #2 is this beauty

in Rowan Wool Cotton from the stash. Isn't the Krista Tee from White Lies Design just GORGEOUS!!!!! I just can't wait until she's finished!!!

Maryland Sheep and Wool

2006-05-18T16:47:00.000-07:00

I've been a bit blah since the Maryland Sheep and Wool Festival. I was a bit disappointed, let down. It had nothing to do with the Festival, it was all the drama surrounding the trial and tribulations it took to drag the "boys" which consisted of a grown man of 37 and 16, 11 & 5 yo boys. No one understood that it was an "all about Mom" day. They couldn't fathom why I would be a tad bit disappointed arriving at 2:00 pm on the last day of the festival. Basically "the man" ate his way through the festival which was good as it kept conversation down to a minimum. The oldest boy wandered off with his girlfriend basically repeating over and over that this wasn't his kind of festival. The young'uns felt the need to announce loudly each time an animal relieved itself and kept asking where the rides were.

I left with one skein of sock yarn. One skein of sock yarn!!!!!!!!

REMINDER TO SELF: Maryland Sheep and Wool Festival 2007; Mom will rise in the wee hours on the 1st day to ensure arrival at the very very very absolute first moment on the first day of the festival. I will make plans to meet up the lovely knitters who attend and meet and greet and knit. I will arrive early enough to actually snag a Festival T-shirt from the current year (not years past) and actually purchase goodies that I want from the various vendors. Then if all goes as I planned, I will meet up at the designated spot for dinner (i.e. Mama E's get together), enjoy a wonderful meal, possibly a few drinks and delightful conversation with new knitting buddies. **One can dream**

Yes, I'm a bit of an addict

2006-04-20T19:11:00.000-07:00

See I've got thing for sock yarn. Some of you may remember from a previous post. I don't know what it is. Maybe because it's inexpensive and easy acquire or it could be the fact it's easy to hide so no one will notice the stash enhancement. Usually just one skein is all it takes rather than the five, six, okay ten+ skeins needed for a sweater. Maybe it's all the GORGEOUS handpainted yarn I've been seeing all over the place. I just can't explain it....but I love me some sock yarn.

Patiently awaiting Mama E to list some of her yummy sock yarn. Oh the colors!!!! She's a Charm City Girl too. Check out her cool T's for the Maryland Sheep and Wool Festival (designed by Mouse).

Ummmm...........have I mentioned I haven't knitted not one pair of socks?!?!?

....and then there were five

2006-03-09T14:07:00.000-08:00

One very cool, strike that, cold day in the office I decided I need a shawl. You know, an office shawl for when I'm chilly to lay over the back of my chair**. I decided that Ella was just the ticket.

**Keep in mind I'm rarely ever cold but I know all the knitting goodness wrap up in the shawl will bring me constant joy while I toil away at work. :)

I found some Twisted Sisters Jazz Hand Paint in the #10 colorway and fell in love.

However, I was a tad disappointed in the colorway as there wasn't as much blue as I expected from the photo swatch at Yarn Market. Then I found I didn't order enough skeins. :( Thankfully, there were a few remaining skeins left in the same dye lot. It is my understanding from the customer representative that Twisted Sister's Dyelots are never, NEVER, the same. In fact, per the representative, it never looks like the same color twice. Thanking my lucky stars I ordered my needed skeins.

And then I was in LOVE once more. Aren't they lovely?!?! Much more blue than the first...........Ella is going to be gorgeous.

Here is a picture of them side by side. The first three from the left was my 1st order and the two on the right my 2nd order. I'm going to use the skein w/ the least amount of blue at the end as you start at the point of the triangle up increasing stitches. That way, I figured I'll have the fewest rows w/ just yellow and green and put all the yummy blue goodness in the bottom and middle where it will be seen.

Multidirectional Goodness!!!!

2006-03-05T13:42:00.000-08:00

I love, Love, LOVE, this scarf. I started this project last winter and just couldn't get going...picked it up again this year in my quest to finished un-finished projects and I'm telling you I love Love LOVE this baby!!!!!

I may have to make another one in a different colorway as it is now my favorite scarf. :)

Mommy's lil Pirate

2006-02-22T17:49:00.000-08:00

Boy does time fly......I think I started this blog going on about a Pirate Sweater I was making for my little guy. There wasn't much in way of progress this past year; in fact I put it down once I didn't make his 4th birthday day deadline. Then his 5th birthday pasted and I saw it rolled up in my knitting basket. We had a burst of cold weather here in Maryland and I thought to myself I should finish that sweater so the little one can get some wear out of it. Well I started chugging along and had a seaming photo to show you last week but never got around to posting the picture.

Well, I was recently bitten by the knitting bug and have been ever so diligent at finding moments to knit. Lo behold, the Pirate sweater was seamed in no time. Finished just in time for the little guy to wear it to his Pee Wee Pirates Club at Church tonight. I don't think everyone enjoyed the authenticity of the skull and crossbones but you couldn't wipe the smile off my little guy's face.

Lookie..lookie......KNITTIN' GOODIES!!!!!

2006-02-16T14:35:00.000-08:00

I decided to take a bit of money that Uncle Sam refunded me and buy a few things I've had my eye on.

Sensation Knitted Socks by Charlene Schurch - because it is all about the SOCKS!!!

50 baby booties to knit by Zoe Mellor - because they are so dang cute.

4 balls of Rowan wool cotton, which is to die for, in a cream, black, limey, and gray colors (don't have the time to list actual shade name or number - quick post as I'm going into job #2 in about 20 minutes) for the WE CALL THEM PIRATES hat. I know the boys will just love it.

A spaceboard from PatternWorks.

And a little lambie because it was so ADORABLE!!!

I've noticed I'm all about small and portable projects at the moment; scarves, booties, socks, fingerless gloves, etc. I feel like I don't really have time for larger projects with my schedule and get a bit down because it seems like I take forever to finish them.

So I'm gonna rock out a few small projects and get my knittin' grove going again. Then maybe I'll move onto a tank or a summer sweater as there usually isn't much to them....slowly building up to doing my Rouge or Kharalund. :)

There's actually knittin' going on in Charm City

2006-01-30T07:25:00.000-08:00

I saw these lovely fingerless mittens completed on Knittin Chick's blog and had to order the pattern. Beautiful!!!!!

Just the thing to keep someone's hand warm as they check out customers w/ a smile at the big ole' HD.

Hoping to finish the second glove this evening all ready for work on Tuesday night.

Tired.........sooooooooooo tired!!!

2005-12-08T19:08:00.000-08:00

Guess who is now a PT employee of ?

Yes folks, a FT job w/ 2 kids and all that goes with that just wasn't enough; now I'm ringing up customers with a smile at HD. Still attempting to squeeze in some knitting. Will post pictures when things are seamed.

Happy Halloween

2005-10-31T18:49:00.000-08:00

Vader vs. Cap'n Jack

What kind of yarn are you?

2005-10-23T07:19:00.000-07:00

You are Mohair.
You are a warm and fuzzy type who works well with
others, doing your share without being too
weighty. You can be stubborn and absolutely
refuse to change your position once it is set,
but that's okay since you are good at covering
up your mistakes.

What kind of yarn are you?
brought to you by Quizilla

Knittin!?!?...........I don't know what you talkin' about

2005-10-12T15:37:00.000-07:00

It seems like ages since I picked up a pair of needles much less made any progress on any of my WIPs.

CCK is one again gainfully employed and attempting to achieve balance in one's life. I mean it is possible to balance work, kids, home, mom duties, house duties and still carve out a bit of time to knit. Right?

While I sit around pondering whether balance is essential to my life or if I'm just going to chuck it all and knit whenever it makes me happy :), there has been recovery from a fender bender. Short story, some drunk a$$shole decided to plow into me and my kids on a wet rainy night. We are all fine, thankfully, but knitting w/ a strained neck is not so comfortable especially while attempting to wear the damned neck brace. It is hard to see over your chin and impossible to knit comfortably while your hands are held in the air in front of your face. Suffice it to say, I think I'm going to have to take a (continued) mini break from knitting around CC for a bit. Of course, that will leave me plenty of time to continue to ponder the meaning of life, balance and how the hell to squeeze in my knitting!! :)

What about love?

2005-09-24T05:26:00.000-07:00

SEASONS OF LOVE

525,600 minutes, 525,000 moments so dear.
525,600 minutes - how do you measure,
measure a year? In daylights, in sunsets,
in midnights, in cups of coffee. In
inches, in miles, in laughter, in strife.
In 525,600 minutes - how do you
measure a year in the life?
How about love? How about love?
How about love? Measure in love.
Seasons of love.

525,600 minutes! 525,000 journeys to plan.
525,600 minutes - how can you measure
the life of a woman or man?

In truths that she learned, or in times that he cried.
In bridges he burned, or the way that she died.

Its time now to sing out, tho the story never
ends let's celebrate remember a year in the life of friends.
Rememberthe love! Remember the love! Remember
the love! Measure in love. Seasons of love!
Seasons of love.

Heard this song the other day; really made me think. In my opinion in the end all that matters is Love; the Love you gave; the Love you showed; the love you sacrificed..........some knitting going on just to keep one from losing their mind.

Work continues on the pinwheel blanket.

One, Twice...........it's confirmed

2005-09-08T20:23:00.000-07:00

I MUST report for Jury Duty Selection tomorrow! :(

Initially I tried to put a positive spin on things. I mean I have been laid off since the first of August. It would be nice to get out and mix it up with some adults for the day. Ones who could possibly have an interest in something other than Nintendogs, Yu-gi-oh, Teen Titans, SpongeBob, etc......(I'm sure you can follow where I'm going).

Imagine my horror as I'm listening to the voice recording stating that my number, lucky number 042, has been picked and summoned to appear when I hear, NO KNITTING NEEDLES are allowed!!!! What!!!! I can travel on an airplane to anywhere in the United States or abroad, for that matter, but there ain't gonna be no knittin' in the court house of Charm City. Unbelievable.

Dang it now I won't be able to continue to work on this. At the rate I'm going the baby will be full grown.

click here for larger image

Pinwheel Baby Blanket
Wool in the Woods
Helix 97% Cotton/3% Nylon
Sundance Colorway
Started 9/5/05

The Fall Knitty's Up!

2005-09-08T10:06:00.000-07:00

I love love love this issue. There are so many things I want to knit.

Like this, this and this.

I am seriously loving blackberry by Jennifer Thurston; thinking of splurging for the yarn. Which would be an extraordinary feat since I am currently unemployed; but a girl's gotta do what a girl's gotta do.

Go check it out!

Sisters and hand knits

2005-09-07T08:29:00.000-07:00

I finished my sister's OSW prior to our birthday!!! That in itself is a miracle here at CCK. Usually knitted goods are gifted after the holiday/birthday/special day, etc. However, this year I completed her b-day gift well in advance. Okay let's not even go into the fact that it is only a OSW; that it only takes, at the most, a skein of yarn and not much time to knit if we really wanted to break it down. Which we don't. All that matters is that she, my sister, loved it. There was the matter of it being a bit tight under the arm, so in the future I'm going to try the sleeves with circs or not go down a needle size as we wouldn't want to cut off anyone's circulation. Oh did I mention due to the fact that it was a bit snug under the arms (okay one arm to be exact), I guilted myself into buying and making this for her also as a belated birthday gift. I just must like being late, behind, and stressed!!!

Anyone else lov'in this sweater?

2005-09-01T06:17:00.000-07:00

Cyclamen Wrap Sweater from Rebecca 30

It calls for GGH Solitaire, 500. 500 what? Meters? Yards? etc.

This is my first Rebecca pattern and I'm somewhat nervous as I've heard people state their pattern directions aren't the clearest. Wish me luck.

Hmmm......wonder if I can find a comparable yarn at Elann or Knit Picks.

Okay did a search of GGH Solitaire.....here's what Muench Yarns has to say about it.

Solitaire
Solitaire has a new not so common component called Elite. Elite is a lycra type stretch nylon which gives the yarn lots of memory. This yarn is suitable for form fitting, waist hugging Rebecca sweaters. A wonderful way for us to show off our girlish figures.

Note: due to the stretchabilty, patterns calling for this yarn will be hard to substitute! Use the original, use Solitaire.

Item #: Solitaire
Stitches to the inch: 5
Material: 44%merino wool 43%polyester 13%elite
Weight per skein: 50g
Needle Size: 7-9

Okay now I will be a stressed out mess. Do I use the Solitaire or attempt to substitute?

Yarn Porn

2005-08-30T17:12:00.000-07:00

Yarn Porn being shown on my "stash" page.

Anyone interested in buying or in a trade please email me at lanns820 at hotmail dot com.

:)

Stash for Sale or Trade!!!!

2005-08-28T17:16:00.000-07:00

I've created a Charm City Knits Stash page here at the old blog. I'll be going through my yarn stash this week and listing anything that I don't feel I'll use. Come back later this week and take a look; you might find something that catches your fancy! :)

I just want to FINISH something!!!!!!

2005-08-26T14:11:00.000-07:00

I won't, can't go into the number of projects I have on the needles attempting to "get gauge" or the yarn patiently waiting to be made into something. I haven't finished (begun) any of the summer projects I planned and now I'm thinking about winter knitting. Scarves and soft, warm and yummy sweaters! Rosedale United, Ribby Cardi, Klaralund, Mariah etc....All the luscious yarn and patterns I set aside this Spring to begin Summer knits. Summer knits, lol; not a one done. Except for my sister's OSW and my niece's bag. Of course, my lovely silk
clapotis is just sitting there, looking at me accusingly. I love love love this yarn and I love the pattern but I'm not sure if I love them together. Of course this was my fourth or fifth yarn buy for the Clapotis pattern. I'm sure it's not the pattern or the yarn, it's me. I had a horrible time setting up the rows; and diligently worked until you dropped the first stitches and now it sits. A little voice in my mind says finish it, you'll feel better. Another voice says buy some neutral yarn; you'll actually use it more. And yet another voice says take that yummy silk and turn it into a lovely summer shell, tank, OSW, anything that you'll wear/use more than Clapotis as you'll hardly wear it because it matches nothing in your wardrobe. **confused** Oh what to do................:(

Frog or not to frog; that is the question?

2005-08-05T09:29:00.000-07:00

Things moving along on this little number.
It is a gift for "she who will not be named". Not sure if she reads this blog and want it to be a surprise. Of course, if she does read the blog, then it is a no brainer especially due to the color.

Click here for larger picture.

Anyways, I'm not sure what to do. Frog or wing it!?!? I mean it isn't too horribly noticeable is it? However leaving it goes against every fiber of my being. What do you think? Suggestions anyone? I thought about dropping stitches and picking them back up to straighten out the mess, but because of all of the kfkb stitches; I'm a little scared and afraid I'd make a HUGE mess. Frogging is an option but I'm so close to completion I can taste it. Oh what to do, what to do.

Do you see it?

How about now?.

Maybe I'll just work a few more rows and attempt to convince myself that it doesn't exist. Yeah, like the job I had until I was let go;apparently we were no longer a fit. After seven years we no longer fit............Never mind I refuse to think about it.

Happy Birthday to Me!!!

2005-08-03T15:09:00.000-07:00

I decided that it was perfectly fine to buy me a birthday present. More specifically YARN baby!! I also picked up this little number.

I'm planning on knitting it in Jaeger Trinity. The main color in Clay and the trim in Sunny.

And lookie, lookie what has already arrived in the mail.

Here's a close-up of the yarn.

FO Baby!!!

2005-07-13T19:36:00.000-07:00

Spirits are high in Charm City as I have finished my 1st FO since I started blogging. Can you feel the excitement in the air?

My lovely niece, Hobbes (yes it's her nickname), turned 13 this past June. A teenager already, wasn't she just born yesterday? Her crafty Aunt Lora, yes I'm talking about myself, just had to make her something. More specifically knit her something. Well Miss Hobbie(another nickname) loved the yarn and purse pattern I sent her sometimes knittin Momma. So of course, I rushed out and ordered some yarn in a cooler color that a 13 yo would love to make her a purse for her b-day. Crystal Palace Deco Ribbon Print Yarn in Seafoam 7236 to be exact. The pattern can be found here.

Hob-a-lu (you guessed it, another nickname) was more than happy to model her purse for me and let me snap a few pics while we were celebrating her cousin's, my son's, 11th b-day last weekend.

Isn't lovely against my Mom's geraniums?

Here is a close-up while casually hanging from Hobbes' arm.

And here she is with her I don't have a care in the world persona while looking away from the camera.*

*excuse my Mother's neighbor's messy yard.

This last pic I just had to include. My sister felt the purse could also do double duty as a hat! Some people will just do about anything to have their picture posted on my knitting blog. ;)

Vacation Knitting, decisions.....decisions......

2005-07-12T11:02:00.000-07:00

Well the boys and I off next week the to beach, hon!! OC Baby!!! We are looking forward to this, as it will be a first REAL vacation in years.

In my delusional mind it will be a wonderful, restful, and peaceful week. Again I want to reiterate that I am delusional, I am going down w/ 7 other families, which equates to 11 adults and 8 children*.

I am however carefully planning what knitting to pack. I believe I have narrowed it down to three projects: 1) my 1st sock project. As I mention a while back, I belong to Joslyn's Fiber Farm's Sock Club. Oh the fiber! Oh the patterns! Mailed on a monthly basis and not considered a breech of my non-yarn buying agreement due to the fact I belonged to this club long before I decided I needed to chill out with the yarn acquisition. : ) Since I've been receiving this little bit of goodness in the mail monthly since January 2005, I thought it was time I actually made a sock; maybe two! :)

My second project will be Via diagonale. I have some lovely Manos in a fuchsia and lime green. I started this project a few months and ago but frogged it due to screwing up the pattern. I'm hoping I'll have this completed upon my return, as it would be cool to come back to work showing off my new bag. I'm also hoping to clarify with Wendy exactly what product she bought accidentally giving her bag such serious support.

Lastly, project #3 will be Knitty's Branching Out. If you remember, I was desperate a few weeks back and acquired some Silky Wool to jump on the lace bandwagon.

Life just keeps getting in the way of my knitting. Hopefully I'll also come home w/ a cool pair of socks (or at least one, I'd be happy with one; I mean it's a start) and a wonderful scarf to go with my new bag.

*Please note the children do not out number the adults but in the long run I truly believe the adults will NOT be victorious. The little people will persevere, hell they have more energy why wouldn't they!!!!

CLAP ON, CLAP OFF, CLAP ON and ON and ON and ON and ON

2005-06-24T07:51:00.000-07:00

Clapotis, which I know will be fabulous* once it is finished, seems to be taking FOREVER. I had the most difficult time seting up my start-up rows; I mean it took me like a bazillion (twelve) tries. After that, it was pretty much smooth sailing. I worked on it diligently because I couldn't wait to feel what it would feel like to actually drop a row of stitches. It feels wonderful!! It feels wrong and exhilarating all at the same time.

Okay so now I dropped my first row of stitches and I'm like, okay did that. Been there, done that. No big deal, etc. etc....so I'm back to slow going. I'd love to be able to just wing it out this weekend and be done with it.

Aren't the colors fabulous*?

*Word of the day over at knit and tonic. Clapotis is FABULOUS, I'M FABULOUS, Your FABULOUS, etc...

I'm a JOINER!!!!!!

2005-06-20T12:33:00.000-07:00

Yes folks, I'm a joiner. I just joined the Summer of Lace Group on Yahoo. Woo Hoo!! My first foray into lace knitting and I get to whine and complain (bitch) as well as share my success with the Summer of Lace Knitters. Yeah Baby!! Okay I admit, I may be acting a bit dorky but this is my first knit-a-long. My first anything in the on-line world of knitting and blogging. I'm excited, sue me!!!

I've decided to knit Knitty's Branching Out in Elsebeth Lavold's Silky Wool, Color 29*. Such a bright sunshiney limey green. I just can't wait to get started. Isn't it gorgeous!!!!

And look at the cool Summer of Lace Knit-A-Long Button.

*There will no mention of the fact that I just recently acquired this lovely silky wool in color 29. It was an act born out of desperation. I was at work, which we will know how hard that is on any given day, but "that" day I was without my knitting. Things were a bit stressed and I had to, just had to, make a run to my LYS as I wasn't sure if I wouldn't successfully make it through the day without being able to hear the clicky clack of knitting needles or feel of fiber as it ran through my fingers. See it was an act of desperation and I for one am not counting it as a logical well thought out yarn purchase. In fact everything is just a blur from the day, I cannot even say that I was the one who actually purchased the yarn as my memory is a bit fuzzy. Yeah, that's it. I'm not sure how this yarn got into my office. I guess the knitting Gods saw my distress and gifted me with it. Yeah, yeah that's it.

Yarn Diet still in effect.

;)

This chick knows nothing about knitting socks......

2005-05-27T10:44:00.000-07:00

However that didn't stop me from joining Joslyn's Fiber Farm's Sock Club earlier this year. I thought it would be a cool way to introduce myself to sock knitting.

Once a month I get an envelope in the mail w/ my yarn and pattern. Oh and the yarn, can we talk about the yarn, G O R G E O U S!!! I cannot go on enough about their yarn. It is beautiful!!!! Love it. To date, I've had the opportunity to lovingly caress their 100% superfine alpaca (Peruvian Nights) pure heaven. Oh, and the Mohair Myst (50/50 mohair/fine wool blend) how I want to wrap it around my neck to comfort me through life's daily trials. I also received Twinkle Toes, their newest sock yarn, 60% super wash merino wool/25% mohair/15% nylon that seems like it will be fun to knit.

Oh how I longingly wait for my monthly fiber goodness to arrive. I cannot wait to open the package and caress it's contents. Then the sock yarn is carefully placed on my computer so I look at it as I toil away, waiting for the moment I can go home w/ my yarn and caress it in private without making a public spectacle of myself.

Oh, how I love thee...let me count the ways

Yarn acquisition has ceased

2005-05-23T13:39:00.000-07:00

It had to happen. One could only buy so much yarn for an extended period of time before they see the impact on their budget. Let's get real here, I'm a single Mom. I'm just going to have to STOP acquiring yarn for awhile and complete some of my projects that I have lovingly stockpiled. Of course, now I'm obessessed with using all my yarn, which is ridiculous. I mean it's not like every skein of yarn will disappear from the face of the earth, right?!?! ***calm down, breathe, breathe, breathe***

I actually made my non-yarn buying pact a few weeks ago and have successfully not purchased any fiber. However, I did treat myself to these, which are heavenly. Lovely needles and this is coming from a Addi's Turbo gal. I will no longer snub bamboo needles.

Then I realized there was an issue w/ my non-yarn buying pact; the issue is there are too many other notions I could purchase (see my lovely NEW interchangeable needle set above). So I decided that I would modify my pact and include the all knitting goodies in an effort to curtail some serious damage.

I must confess, however, that I did to have exchange some Calmer. No big deal right, I mean that isn't a purchase. Hmmm......did I mention it also included purchasing an additional 3 balls? Entirely not my fault. I initially bought the Calmer for "MagKnits Nothin' but a T shirt" shirt for my niece's birthday. I was going to use the face of the monkey (on the backpack) from SnB Book on the front of the T. Too cute for words, right? Anyway, my sister in her "I know my daughter better than you" judgement nixed the idea (and yes, I was rolling my eyes as I was typing). Now my niece is teeny and 5 balls of calmer wasn't going to make anything that would fit my voluptuous body thereby causing the yarn addition (I refuse to see it as a purchase). See I'm really work hard to make sure I use up as much of my stash as possible before I buy more. :p

So starting today and until I complete all of my projects down to the last three (why three?? I don't know it sounded good), I am under a non-buying any knitting or fiberie (sp?) goodness pact. God help me please! **bowing head**

Ball Winder......fun for the whole family!

2005-04-30T14:37:00.000-07:00

While the oldest was attending a birthday party at the skating rink. The little guy and I picked up my new ball winder. I had no idea how handy that little bugger was going to be.

Did I mention it is rainy and blah today in MD. Really really blahhhhhhhhhhhhhhh. :( Guess what saved the day!!! Mom's new ball winder!!!! :) Kept the kids occupied and quiet for a good 45 minutes. It would have most likely lasted longer had they not started to boss one another around.

Who'da thunk! **slaps forehead**

Royal Ball Winder Fun for the Whole Family!

Yeah, I changed my blog's name and updated it a bit....

2005-04-22T18:24:00.000-07:00

And, yes, I know I sound like I'm in a SNIT. It is because the damned internet explorer quit causing me to lose my entire entry.................No I refuse to re-type it even though I thought it was quite funny and entertaining. Sorry. **shrugs shoulders**

Your opinions, please!!

2005-04-21T09:24:00.000-07:00

I am so in love with this sweater!!! It is Debbie Bliss' Asymmetric ribbed top from her Cathay Pattern Book. I got some yummy black cathay yarn from Jannette's Rare Yarns. I *heart* Jannette's Rare Yarns. Okay, I *heart* Jannette's Rare Yarns a little too much.

Anyway, as I stated I love this Asymmetric ribbed top and added to my future projects list. I'm debating whether or not to make 3/4 length sleeves. While I will most likely roll these sleeves back when I'm at work, I'm thinking shorter sleeves might throw off the symmetry. What do you think?

What Kind of American English Do you Speak?

2005-04-17T13:42:00.000-07:00

Your Linguistic Profile:

45% General American English

30% Yankee

25% Dixie

0% Midwestern

0% Upper Midwestern

What Kind of American English Do You Speak?

Edit To Add: Visiting with friends in PA for the day. Have some yummy goodness to post and some progress shots of my latest WIP.

I got it!! I got it!!!

2005-04-12T11:29:00.000-07:00

I got the bookbookbookbook!! Yes, Amazon shipped Yarn Harlot's book earlier then they orginally stated!!! I can't wait to sit down tonight and start reading. I'll have Harlot sign it at Maryland's Sheep & Wool Festival next month!! : )

**HaPpY DaNcInG**

I got it, I got the bookbookbook!!
Woo Hoo!!
Yeah, yeah, yeah!!!!

Why yes I do have a toddler.
Why yes, we do routinely make-up songs when we are happy.
Is it obvious?

What do you think?

2005-04-05T20:41:00.000-07:00

I saw this at PassionKnit's site who saw it on Chris' and Eileen's site and thought it would be fun. How does your name look?

Multi-directional Scarf and Stash Enhancement

2005-04-05T20:13:00.000-07:00

Yes, hanging head in shame, I have yet again added to my yarn stash. I'm thinking I may have to take drastic measures to curb my yarn addiction. I'll ponder this awhile until my latest yarn orders arrive(Yarn Market & Knit Picks).......then I will contemplate the steps necessary to curtail this addiction. :P

Until then, behold.....

Yummy Yumminess. Some Crystal Palace Cotton Chenille for the flower washcloths, Sugar n' cream in various colors for dish cloths, and Noro Silk Garden, No. 203 for Ruffles from Scarf Style. I can't wait to see the transition between colors while making the ruffles.

Some lovely silky wool, color #14 which was originally destined to become a baby sweater and booties which is now thinking of becoming the Adrienne Vittadini's Sleeveless Top from Vogue Knitting's Spring/Summer 2004 issue. This switch is not definite as a AV Ballerina T-shirt has also cross through our line of vision.

And last (for now, lol) is our Multi-directional scarf done in Noro Kureyon #116 to match mittens done in same colorway. If I calculated my yardage correctly, there should also be enough yarn for a hat. Only time will tell.

Just because I think they are so dern cute!!! My guys!!!

Fourth time's the charm :)

2005-03-21T14:28:00.000-08:00

This is the fourth yarn I bought to make Kate Gilbert's Clapotis from Knitty, aka the Clapper or the Clap. I purchased some lovely handpainted yarn from www.handpaintedyarn.com which was stunning but not quite the right color or feel. Then I stumbled into my LYS, A Good Yarn , and found this gorgeous silk and rayon blend. I was floored. Just what I had envisioned when I thought of making Clapotis. Bright, soft, silky, springy goodness. I am sooooooooooo jazzed!!!

Lookie, lookie, lookie.........A wonderful little boy has a front to his pirate sweater!!!

Click here to see a close-up of the pirate's face. His face is a little wonky (nose area) but I'm just going to let it go. It took me awhile to want to actually pick this project back up because I was so tired of the switching or twisting yarn for the face, that I've decided it is okay not to obsess over what I've affectionally come to call the wart on the Pirate's nose. lol Now if we could just find some sleeves, the little guy may get to wear this sweater before it gets too warm.

Some yummy yumminess....We went to AC Moore this weekend and I found this lovely periwinkle yarn which is a merino, microfiber,cashmere blend (45%/49%/6%), Cashmere Luxury Aran. I have to say it is wonderful. It feels great. I may have to go back and pick up enough to actually knit something to wear. I liked the feel so I picked up a few skeins to play around with to see if I liked it. I need to make some sort of something to keep our remote controls together. We somehow always seem to misplace one of the three that is needed at that precise moment. It is very annoying to be on a constant remote search. So the boys will be threatened within an inch of their lives to make sure they put all the remotes back into the periwinkle remote pocket Mom knits up. I hope it works. If nothing else I found a yarn I think is pretty darn good, considering I believe I am turning into a yarn snob.

What Classic Pin-Up Are You?

2005-03-03T12:04:00.000-08:00

You're Brigitte Bardot!

What Classic Pin-Up Are You?
brought to you by Quizilla

Found at: www.chicknits.com

Yummy Goodness

2005-02-24T08:57:00.000-08:00

Would could resist this "yummy goodness"?!?!?!

This is going to be Knitty's
Mariah

Stash Enhancement

2005-02-22T06:42:00.000-08:00

Since the beginning of the New Year, I have spent more time buying yarn, patterns and books than knitting on my WIPs.

CURRENT WIPs

Pirate Sweater
Natalia Gauntlets
Baby Sweater and Booties (Debbie Bliss Pattern)
mittens
scarf

FUTURE PROJECTS

Must Have Cardi
Kharalund
Rouge
Multidirectional Sweater
Clapotis (I've bought four different yarns/color schemes for this project)
socks

At this point I think it would probably be in my best interest not to purchase any more yarn, patterns, or books until I have, in the very least, finished my WIPs.

However, I'm sitting here contemplating joining the official/unofficial knit along at Knit Happens for the Wrap Sweater from Rebecca

it is done in GGH Kid Soft....it is just TOO CUTE!

I'm thinking that the boys and I need to take a FIELD TRIP down to Knit Happens and check out the store!!
(we all know, that actually means buy the magazine as well as the yarn necessary to make the sweater and any other goodies that I would have to have or "I would just die"! :) )

Am I being unreasonable?

2005-02-17T11:57:00.000-08:00

All through blog world I'm reading reviews on Interweave Knits and Vogue Knitting's lastest magazines.

Now I treated myself to subscriptions to both of the mags at the first of the year. I received Winter copies of both mags. Both of which I had already purchased after which I decided to subscribe.

To date, I have not received either magazine.

If it is possible for individuals through the knitting blog world pick their new copies out of their mailboxes or for others to actually purchase them from magazine racks at LYS or craft stores. Wouldn't one think that I, as a subscriber to those magazines, should have already received my copies of their Spring mags? I mean people have had time to walk to the mailboxes or store, buy it, peruse it, read it, formulate their comments and post them on their blogs. I really am annoyed that I haven't received my copies as of yet.

Am I being unreasonable?

Admitting defeat head hanging

2005-01-21T17:09:00.000-08:00

Knit Therapy

I admitted defeat and cried Arrrgh!!! on the pirate sweater. I didn't have it finished for the little one's birthday. I had hoped to finish his birthday weekend but alas, the obessive knitting energy I had prior to his birthday left me and I was, well, exhausted.

On a brighter note the Pirate Party was a success!! He loved his Peter Pan and Captain Hook Dolls. Oops, I mean Action Figures. Logan corrected me at the party. Said in his most outraged voice, "They are not dolls Mom!!" "Girls play with dolls, they are action figures!" I had to chuckle.

Expecting 6" - 12" of snow this weekend here in Maryland. While those of you live in colder climates may think that is nothing, here in Maryland a few inches closes schools and businesses or at least causes serious a delays. Traffic, don't even want to talk about what it does to traffic. So I hope to get much knitting done this weekend as I will not be able to leave my house. Hopefully the boys will decide to build a snowman, fort, or shovel (**crossing fingers**) and I will have a bit peace in this insane world of mind for a few hours. One can hope. :)

Hmmmmm.......pondering..........do you think I could convince the 10 yo that he does need a NAP?

Just call me Scarlet......

2005-01-14T11:01:00.000-08:00

Darling, it seems that you belong in Gone with the
Wind; the proper place for a romantic. You
belong in a tumultous world of changes and
opportunities, where your independence paves
the road for your survival. It is trying being
both a cynic and a dreamer, no?

Which Classic Novel do You Belong In?
brought to you by Quizilla

Just keep knitting.....Just keep knitting.......

2005-01-14T06:56:00.000-08:00

Yes, I'm still working on Logan's sweater. :eek:

I decided last night it was too long so I frogged the bottom of the back panel. Ummmm, did I mention I haven't started the front panel or sleeves as of yet? Yes folks there will be some marathon knitting going on this evening. :doh:

'Ere ye have it, ye ole' skull and crossbones

2005-01-13T06:39:00.000-08:00

Well I manage to almost completely finish the back of Logan's pirate sweater. I have to say working the skull and crossbones was definitely a treat after all of that stockingette. I've almost finished his skull.....then it's on to the front.

Close-up of the skull and crossbones, just a bit more to go.

Back of the skull and crossbones. I have to say I don't think it looks too messy where I twisted the yarn to change colors. Of course this is my first attempt so I really don't have a clue what it should look like. :P

Already called Mom to see if I can have the party over her house, that way I can just keep knitting and not have to worry about straightening up for the party. Works for me.

I feel like Dorie from Nemo; just keep knitting, just keep knitting, just keep knitting........... :)

Four years ago today.................

2005-01-11T17:26:00.000-08:00

my sweet Logan was born. Boy does the time fly. Being a single mom I bounce back and forth between being totally overwhelmed with raising two boys by myself and then to the opposite extreme of loving every minute of it. For some reason the "loving every minute of it" revelations don't seem to last as long as the completely overwhelmed feelings. lol :)

Logan is quite a character. He loves pirates and prefers to be the bad guy as opposed to the good guys when playing make believe with his brother/friends. Is that good? I'm not sure. He definitely knows what he wants and doesn't give into peer pressure. I hope his preference for being a "bad boy" doesn't follow him into his teenage or adult years!

My parents, the boys and I went to Chuck E. Cheese to have a mini birthday celebration (his actual party is this Saturday). He had a blast!!!

Off to continue working on his pirate sweater.........only three more days. I better get my butt in gear, I'm not even finished the back!!!! Ack!!!!

Pirate Sweater on the Needles

2005-01-10T10:11:00.000-08:00

I am so excited. I know it sounds silly but I just can't wait to finish this sweater, as I know my youngest son will absolutely love it!!!

I've started the back panel and have about 10 more inches to go before I start the skull and crossbones about 1 inch down from the collar. I'm using Plymouth Encore DK #670. Will post pics of my progress as soon as I get batteries for my digital camera.

The stockingette isn't as smooth as I hoped it would be. I'm not sure if it is my tension or the yarn or a little of both but since my son is 4 and will only get a few years out of it, I'm not going to obsess. At least I keep telling myself not to obsess. lol

Count down to the Capt'ns Birthday Party!!!!

2005-01-04T07:51:00.000-08:00

Wow, it just seems like yesterday my youngest son was born. On January 11th he will turn 4 years old. He is growing up so quickly. As usual, I think just because Christmas is over I can relax and take a breath. Not so, I am now in a mad dash to knit him a pirate sweater. Yes, my son loves pirates as I mentioned before. We had talked about a Buzz Lightyear Party but I decided to change it to a Pirate party as a surprise. He will be so excited. Found a cake on-line shaped like a pirate ship Pirate Ship Cake that my sister so graciously offered to help me make for him and I've found dozens of games on line.

Here's my invitation I created which I'm quite proud of. : )

We are going to roll them up and place them in bottles with sand and fish/shells/sea horses and mail them out.

Off to the LYS to get smaller needles for his sweater as I could not get gauge last night. Nothing like working under a deadline!! lol

Four more days..........mad knitting rush

2004-12-20T10:19:00.000-08:00

Started my sister's scarf last night. Hmmm, did I mention it was a Christmas gift? Did I also mention that I still need to knit one for my mother? I'm using the brown/cream-variegated mohair and ribbon I won off of ebay w/ a purl yo stitch on size 19 US needles. The mohair seems skinny so I doubled stranded it w/ the ribbon which is skinner than the ribbon I used for my scarf. It is turning out nice but I really like mine the best. There is a definite difference in the mohair and I think that is what is just not working for me + the skinny ribbon. Get new yarn/ribbon, you say. I thought about purchasing new yarn and/or ribbon but decided to muddle through these scarves with what I had. There is nothing else this yarn is suitable for and this way I can get it knitted up and out the door so I don't have to look at it anymore. **Mental Note: Unless you know the exact manufacturer, brand, and weight of yarn you want, do not buy yarn off of ebay again**.

Ahoy thar matey

2004-12-15T09:04:00.000-08:00

I am so excited!!! I found this wonderful Wendy Knits Pattern on Ebay for a Pirate sweater!!! Did I mention how much my 4yo loves pirates and pirate ships? He SO loves them.

So for his 4th birthday, Mom is going to knit him his own pirate sweater!!!! The Captain Hook Cameo.

Here's my little pirate:

Started my first hat!!!!

2004-12-15T08:56:00.000-08:00

I made this lovely mohair and ribbon scarf in a yo p stitch on US 19 needles.

Wool in the Woods
Miss Mohair (78% Mohair/13% Wool/9% Nylon)
Color: Grandma's Garden

Once done, I had all this yummy Mohair left. I mean, I could not just let it sit there so I bought some Lite Lopi, Color #0392
and began my first hat!!

Here's a in progress shot:

Rip-it, Rip-it.......remind you of something?

2004-12-13T13:11:00.000-08:00

Well I had all this yummy mohair left over from my scarf and decide it couldn't go to waste. So I went to my LYS, A Good Yarn, and bought some Lopi Lite to make a hat. Lorraine the owner was kind enough to give me a very simple hat pattern as I've been very stressed of late and didn't need to add to my insanity. Simple right? No never, not where I'm concerned, lol. : ) Obviously I had no issues just knitting on circular needles but when I came to the decreases it got a little hanky (is that a word?). They just didn't "flow" and I totally did something wrong to make one bump out. Prior to finishing the hat I tried it one, it was very snug on my head. So snug in fact that it fit my 3.5 yo perfectly. While I should have not stressed and just finished the hat and gave it to the boy; I just couldn't bring myself to do so. I mean the lovely mohair and the wool matched my scarf so well, how could I? So I frogged it; rip-it rip-it.

Such is life. Will post pics when I have further along than three rows.

2004-12-09T08:23:00.000-08:00

I found three, count'um three!!!!, packages of yarn waiting for me today at work. Yipee!!!!! Looks like my elann order and ebay yarn has arrived. Can't wait to get it on the needles!!!!