AngKnits

2011 Wrap-Up

2012-01-23T08:53:00.000-06:00

I was waiting to get a picture of Amanda in her sweater before I did this post, but forgot to snap one while we were in Colorado last week. It fits her perfectly, and she looks beautiful in it. Sis, send me a pic of you in your sweater! Regarding the yarn, though, she said it is kind of itchy.

Another item finished at the end of the year, just before the New Year, is a little shawl made from a skein of sock yarn, Wollmeise, of course.

Here is a list of FO's from 2011:

2011 FINISHED OBJECTS

Many Happy Recipients

2011-12-25T09:20:00.001-06:00

I LOVE THESE KIDS!!!

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!

Final FO's

2011-12-23T09:42:00.001-06:00

This little hooded sweater was the first test knit I have ever done for a designer. It is an 18 months size, so it will be put away for future use.

These two hats were knit for a lady, who has a son at STA, who has lost her hair from chemotherapy.

This cowl was a pattern from the Knitspot Club that I was in for the past 6 months. I made it longer than the pattern called for because I wanted to use the entire skein. I ordered more of this yarn, cause it was so yummy. I'm giving this to Lisa for Christmas.

A hat for Gryffin for Christmas.

A cowl for Adrienne for Christmas. I forgot to get a picture of it finished, so I'll try to get a pic of it when I give it to her.

Mittens for Ashtyn for Christmas. Again, I forgot to take a pic before I wrapped them, so I'll try to get one when I give them to her.

I do have several things on the needles, and plans for more. Maybe another post for another day.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!

FO's Part 3

2011-12-18T10:00:00.001-06:00

This shawl took almost a year to knit. I got stuck while knitting it, and couldn't figure it out, so I put it away and went on to something else. Then one day I came across the "pattern errata", and it all made sense. I finished it in about 2 days.

Another big accomplishment this year is that I made a couple of well-fitting, presentable-to-wear-in-public sweaters. I wear this all of the time.

These two blankets - top and bottom pics - had to be made in a hurry. I received a baby shower invitation in the mail for a baby shower for Frankie's twins (a girl and a boy), and had about 2 and a half weeks to knit them. I already had the blue yarn, so I started that one first while waiting for the yarn that I ordered for the second one. They knit up very quickly on size 15 needles. The color in the second one is off - it is not that dark or that orangey.

In keeping with the year of the hats, I made Charlie a Koolhaas (a pattern I have been wanting to knit for awhile now), to wear when he runs. And since it was so fun, I made one for Clay too. See pic below.

And because Meg saw the other cowl that I knit, and she commented that she liked it so much, I made her one for Christmas, as well as the Yarntini socks below. Cause John said she is crazy for my knitted socks.

Final FO's Part 2

2011-12-18T09:42:00.002-06:00

Although I did not knit this, I provided the yarn for it, and I think it deserves a photo on the blog.
Amanda knit this for Morgan's baby.

Another little hat for Morgan's baby. I would have knit a baby blanket for her baby shower,
but Amanda wanted to, so I knit 4 little hats for her.

This pair of socks was donated to the STA Lobster Bash, as well as the hat pictured below.

Another baby blanket, knit for Parker and Olivia's first baby.

Clay wanted some slipper socks. They are the same size - it is an optical illusion that the bottom one looks bigger.

I enjoyed knitting this - a long cowl - more than knitting it as a scarf. With a scarf, you go back and forth, which is soooo boring. With a cowl, you go round and round, which is much more fun.
This was also donated to the Lobster Bash, as was the hat shown below.

And lest anyone think that I am a perfect knitter, I present to you my major failure for the year. It started out pretty, but did not felt evenly. The fair isle body of the bag felted very quickly, but the bottom did not. I probably just need to dip it in boiling water, but for now it has been thrown to the back of my closet.

I love, love, love this shawl. It was knit in garter stitch, so no purling - which is always a positive for me. And because it is garter stitch, it is so nice and squishy. It almost killed me to donate it to STA for the Lobster Bash.
I would love to know who bought it.

Another pair of socks knit in a Numma Numma KAL. I love these socks.

Additional information about all of my projects is available on my Project Page on Ravelry here.

Final FO's for 2011

2011-12-18T09:17:00.002-06:00

My poor neglected blog. I thought I'd do a year-end wrap up of my finished objects for this year. Some have already been added - those knitted before May. My proudest knitting moment of the year is my Latvian Baby Blanket, shown above. I wanted to knit it for ages and finally decided to just go for it. It only took me 2 weeks to knit, and about 3 months to get the fabric for the backing and find someone to sew it on. There are changes I will make to the next one I make, and there will definitely be more of these.

This year I also enjoyed knitting small shawls, or shawlettes. This one is knit in Bugga!

I knitted many little hats this year. The one above, and the two below were for Morgan's baby, as well as a little Christmas hat for Collin's baby.

I did not knit as many sock this year as I have in previous years, but there were a few. I was a member of Cookie A's sock club, and I think I knit 2 pairs from that club. I really like her patterns.

This was also a year for baby blankets. Oh, how I love to knit baby blankets. This is Stacey's baby with his Big Bad Baby Blanket.

Another Cookie A sock club pair - in a yarn I've never used before, but really like.

Another little shawlette that I knit in my first mystery KAL. It was fun waiting for the next part of the pattern every week. I really like this little scarf/shawl.

Lest this post be soooo long that someone loses interest before finishing, I will stop now. I will continue to update the rest of my knitterly goods before the end of the year.

CONGRATULATIONS, JOSH!!!

2011-05-22T11:46:00.004-05:00

I had to share my newest obsession, I mean project. The pattern is Latvian Garden Baby Blanket, knit in the round in several Wollmeise colorways on size 2.5 mm needles. I started it about 10 days ago and have not picked up another project. It is a very addictive knit, and I am loving working on it.

I never thought I would be able to knit anything like this. I am very proud of it.

I finished another baby blanket. This one is for Collin's baby, who is due in July. The baby shower is this afternoon, so I had to do a quick photo shoot. Now I need to go wrap it up and get to the shower. The pattern is This Little Piggy; the yarn is Miss Babs Yowza in Frog Belly colorway.

Collin always had a thing for pigs when she was a little girl, so I thought this would be appropriate.

Another BIG FINISHED OBJECT this week is Josh. Well, not exactly. He graduated from LSU this week in Finance, but he will continue his education and get his Master's. He is a wonderful young man, and his dad and I are extremely proud of his dedication and hard work in everything he does.
Love you, Josh!!!

A Few More FO's

2011-05-05T19:10:00.003-05:00

I finished a few more things this past month. First is Cradle Me by Anne Hanson, knit in Wollmeise twin, Dunkle Kirsche colorway, on size 9 needles. This is going to the Walthalls' grandbaby, a girl, due this month. Hope they like it. It is fairly big - 40" x 36".

Next is the first installment of Cookie A's sock club. The pattern is Ripple Leaf Socks, yarn is String Theory Caper in Solas colorway, knit on 2.25 mm needles. I am not sure if I will keep these or give them away.

This was so quick and fun to knit. It is Baby Kina and Magic Slippers to match. Yarn is NummaNumma the special in Cherry on Top colorway. Baby Kina was knit with yarn held double on size 4 needles. Magic Slippers were knit on 2.5 mm needles with yarn held single. Still need buttons. This was made for Bridget's soon-to-be born grandbaby. I will definitely make this again.
Have a great day.

Springeytime Socks

2011-04-07T14:04:00.003-05:00

I finally finished and blocked my Socks that Rock Storeytime no-purl Monkeys. I love this colorway. I wanted something bright and springtimey. Hence, the name Springeytime. These were knit on 2.25 mm needles, of course.I have not been knitting very many pairs of socks this year. It seems there are many new babies arriving in the coming months that are going to require nice warm blankets.

My First Real Lace Shawl

2011-03-29T19:41:00.003-05:00

I completed my first real lace shawl, made from Wollmeise lace-garn in Die Auster WD colorway on size 4 needles. The pattern is Pamuya. I love it. I thought it would be a little bigger, but that's ok. Gives me a reason to make another lace shawl . . . one day.

I also made a couple of hats for Janet, a friend who lost her hair while undergoing chemotherapy.

The purple one is Wollmeise Versuch. The pattern is Elen, and it was knit on size 3 needles.

The multi-colored one is Sanguine Gryphon Bugga, held double stranded, knit on size 7 needles. The pattern is Regular Guy Beanie. It's so soft and cushy. She really loved both of them.

In the face of full disclosure, I do have to admit that I have started another hobby, not really a new one, but an old flame that was last done about 15 years ago. I've started cross-stitching again. I know, just what I need, another obsession. I came upon an old book while searching for yarn in my closet, and the bug bit me. I tried to shake it off, but I couldn't. So, I'm cross-stitching Clay's name. I've done all 4 of my children's names when they were little. I'm really enjoying it. Pictures to come at a later date.

Happy stitching.

WIP's and FO's

2011-02-27T14:50:00.003-06:00

I started this sock last Saturday while in Destin, then did not pick it up again until yesterday. It is the first installment in Cookie A's sock club. The yarn is String Theory Caper sock yarn with 10% cashmere in Solas colorway. The pattern is Ripple Leaf Socks by Cookie A. Also included are two delicious cookie recipes. The pattern is very interesting, and the yarn is very soft and nice to work with.

Since the Cookie sock requires some concentration, and I can't really work on it if I am not sitting and doing nothing else, I casted on another of Cookie's patterns, Monkey Socks. I love this pattern and have it pretty much memorized, so I can take it with me and work on it away from home. The yarn is STR lightweight in Storeytime colorway. This color makes me very happy. Both socks are being worked on 2.25 mm needles.

One of my knitting goals this year was to make a larger shawl in lace yarn. So I rolled a skein of Wollmeise lace-garn in Die Auster WD colorway and casted on a Pamuya. (Only after making a needle run for a size 4 needle to my LYS which is 40 minutes away). But I was determined to cast on immediately. I think it is going to be beautiful.

I finished my 3rd pair of socks this year. These are in Numma Numma The Usual in Griddle Grits colorway. The pattern is Holidazed by Anne Hanson. Love this yarn, love the twist of it, love the color of it, and love this pattern.

And last, but not least, I finished my Cassis. I LOVE IT. I wore it to church today, even though it is over 80 degrees outside. The yarn is Madelinetosh Vintage in Trodden colorway, knit on size 7 needles. It was a joy to knit, due to the yarn as well as the well-written pattern. It fits perfectly.

Have a great week.

Birthday Valentine

2011-02-14T09:41:00.002-06:00

My sweetheart is 24 years old today. Happy Birthday, John. I love you very much. BTW, you still got it.

Another pair of socks finished. The yarn is Yarntini MCN in Hope Stripe. These were knit on US 0 needles (2.0mm). They are for me.
Happy Valentine's Day.

More FO's

2011-02-05T13:23:00.002-06:00

These socks are from the November 2010 Socks That Rock yarn. I didn't care for the patterns that came with it, so I decided to use an old club pattern, Cloning Anemone Rib. I love this color. They were knit on 2.25 mm needles, and they are for me.

Alex came home from school one day and said that the Art Class was learning to knit, and that they were making hats for capsforgood.org. He handed me a pattern and asked me to knit one. Since the pattern was for a hat knit flat - why would anyone want to do that? - I kinda improvised and made one of my own. The yarn is Plymouth Jelli Beenz, and it was a very quick knit on size 7 needles.
Have a great day.

FO's

2011-02-03T15:56:00.002-06:00

This little sweater for Ashtyn was knit in Spud & Chloe Outer, in Rocket colorway on size 11 needles. The name of the pattern is Little Miriam. It knit up very quickly because of the large needles and yarn, but knitting it made my hands hurt. Not sure if it is because the yarn is 35% cotton, or if I am just not used to knitting on larger needles. All it needs is a couple of hook & eyes sewn in at the cables at the waist. I made the size 6, and it fits Ash perfectly.

My new favorite hat pattern is Jacques Cousteau Hat. Two of Alex's friends, Jimmy and Jonathan, asked me to knit hats for them. I used Wollmeise for both, yarn held double, on size 4 needles. The first two pics are of Jimmy's hat in Forster's Gluck 100% merino.

These next two pics are Jonathan's hat in Maus Alt 80/20 twin.

I hope they like them. I really enjoy knitting hats. I made the first one in one afternoon.

Have a great day.

Wollmeise

2011-01-25T11:30:00.003-06:00

Ebenholz WD 100% merino

Miss May 2 twin

Pfauenauge 2 WD 100% merino

Pfefferminz Prinz 2 100% merino

Wollmeise

2011-01-19T16:25:00.001-06:00

Wollmeise lace in Cassis WD . . .

V & V WD . . .

Wollmeise

2011-01-19T13:07:00.003-06:00

Wollmeise lace-garn Versuchskaninchen - blue & purple.

In full sun . . .

Unfolded . . .

In shade . . .

Veilchen WD in twin . . .
It's very dark.

First FO's of 2011

2011-01-12T18:47:00.002-06:00

Presenting . . . Wellenhiker . . . a wonderful little shawl, Hitchhiker by Martina Behm, knit in Wollmeise twin in Wellensittichvogelfeder WD colorway on 3.25 mm needles.

I love it. It is the perfect weight. It ended up with 39 points. I got to practice my continental knitting style with all of the garter stitch

The first actual FO object(s) of 2011 were a hat and pair of baby socks for one of Alex's teachers. I knit these all on Sunday afternoon and evening. The yarn used is Classic Yarns - Cashsoft Baby DK. The pattern is Cabled Baby Hats - Ten Cable Hat, knit on size 5 needles. I cast on 80 stitches. The socks were knit on size 3 needles.
I'm working on 2 pairs of socks and still need to finish the sweater for Ashtyn. As soon as I finish the sweater, I'm casting on Cassis for myself. I've already got the yarn in from The Loopy Ewe.

Happy Knitting!!

2010 - End of the Year Wrap-up

2011-01-06T11:33:00.008-06:00

It has taken me awhile to get around to this post. These are all items that I finished in 2010.

These are my Christmas socks, knit in String Theory Colorworks - Continuum - Kinetic Energy colorway. The pattern is March Mosiac Socks on 2.25 mm needles.

These socks were knit for Debbie. They were made in 4 days, gotta love stockinette. The yarn is Opal 3204 on 2.25 mm needles. Love the way this yarn knits up.

Ignore this skein of yarn. I don't know how it got in this post.

This little set was knit for baby Clark, who is almost one year old. I have yet to send it to them. The yarn is Lorna's Laces sportweight in Jeans colorway, knit on a size 4 needle. The hat is 2x2 rib with 88 stitches casted on. The socks were knit on size 3, cast on 32 stitches.

This baby blanket was knit with Sunshine Yarns in sportweight, Boulder Flatirons colorway, on size 5 needles. The pattern is Cavendish Throw in the book Simply Noro. I casted on 146 stitches. Finished size is 29" x 31". I made it for Candice to give to give to Brady's nephew, Coll, who was born 1/3/11. It took about 3.5 skeins of yarn, with enough left over for a little hat and/or booties.

This pair of socks was knit for Mona. It is from the November, 2010, Loopy Ewe kit. The yarn is Sanguine Gryphon Bugga! I love this pattern and this yarn.

This scarf was knit for one of Alex's teachers. The yarn is Cascade 220 in a maroon color, held double, on size 15 needles. The pattern is Scrunch Scarf by Susan B. Anderson.

That's it for 2010. The following are totals for the year:

2010 FINISHED OBJECTS

That's a lotta knittin'!!!

I still have many things on the needles: one single sock (need to make second), my Wendy's Pi Shawl (almost finished, think I just need to do edging), Yarntini blanket (about 2/3 finished), a couple of scarves that I've lost interest in, February Lady Sweater that I've decided to frog, and maybe one or two other things.

I am really not good at setting goals, so I am just going to list a few things I'd like to focus on in 2011: try to be more monogamous (so far, I've made a sweater for Ashtyn and just need to sew the arms on, and I'm in the middle of a Hitchhiker scarf in Wollmeise), I'd like to make a nice size shawl in Wollmeise lace-garn, and I'd like to finish up a few WIP's. Of course, I'll keep making socks for sure.

So long, 2010.

WD Suzanne twin

2011-01-02T11:47:00.002-06:00

Surprise!!!

2010-12-15T19:41:00.003-06:00

Happy birthday to the best mother in the entire world!! (one day late)

Mom, you always take the time each year on our birthdays to post a picture and talk about how wonderful we are, so I thought I would hijack your blog and do the same for you. Words can never express what you mean to me and the boys. You are there for us through thick and thin. You support us in each of our endeavors. You're our biggest cheerleader, as well as a soft place to land when we fall short of our goals. Thank you for all you do for us. You're the best!! I love you!!

Love,

Sis

Tradeables

2010-12-06T14:14:00.002-06:00

Top to bottom: 42 (3) in twin, V & V WD in 100% merino, Igor WD in twin, and Maharani WD in twin.Top photo taken in shade, bottom in full sun.

top to bottom: V&V, Igor, Maharani, 42

Happy Thanksgiving!!!

2010-11-25T19:37:00.000-06:00

More FO's

2010-11-23T14:54:00.004-06:00

I finished a cute little vest for Clay. It is knit in Wollmeise Molly in Gianduia colorway. The pattern is Ring Bearer's Vest. Notice the cute little own at the bottom. I hope he wears it for Thanksgiving.

I also made some little slippers for Ashtyn. I think slippers is her favorite thing that I knit for her. These are made from Miss Babs Yowza in Frog Belly colorway. The pattern is Sellwood from the patternbook, Shibui Socks, with many, many modifications.

Ashtyn also wanted some mittens. She picked out the color - Yarntini Limoncello. For some reason, I do not enjoy knitting mittens. You would think that I would because I like knitting socks so much, but, no, not mittens.

This little set is for Baby Gryffin. It is a hat and socks in Lorna's Laces sportweight in Jeans colorway. I'll probably give most of this stuff as Christmas gifts.

Hope everyone has a lovely Thanksgiving. Happy knitting.

A Few FO's

2010-11-08T12:50:00.002-06:00

I have a few finished objects to show from the last week and a half. First up is a little hat made of Wollmeise. The pattern is The Hat Besserud, knit on 2.75 mm needles. Colors used are Vroni, Spina de Pesci, Wasabi and a red-orange from The Loopy Ewe Sock Club last year that I can't remember the name of. I casted on 120 stitches (instead of 140) to accommodate the head of an almost 3 year old. It fits my great-nephew perfect. And my stranded knitting is coming along very nicely, if I do say so myself.

My next project is a simple Diagonal Baby Blanket in Numma Numma TexasToasty in Ruby Red colorway. This was knit on a size 7 needle. I just love the squishy-ness of the yarn, and the garter stitch pattern makes it extra squishy. This is going to a family friend's new baby.

I was excited to use Knitterly Things -Vesper Sock - from the Summer Sock Club. Colorway is Summer Harvest. I did a plain stockinette pattern to show off the stripey-ness, knit on 2.25 mm needles. I really enjoyed knitting with this yarn and love the colors.

And another Wollmeise product is off the needles . . . No-Purl Monkeys in WM twin, Skandal um Rosi on 2.25 mm needles. These babies are mine.
I have no socks on the needles right now. I never have no socks on needles. I am waiting for the postman to arrive any minute with my Loopy sock kit to see if I want to use it before I decide to cast something else on. It's not like I don't already have a couple of things, ok, numerous things, in the works. But I need socks on the needles. It's just me.

Have a great week.

A New Baby

2010-10-23T12:46:00.002-05:00

We have a new baby in the family. Is there anything better? Or sweeter?

Baby Gryffin (baby G), born Monday, 10/18/10, weighs in at 7 lbs, 5 oz., 19 3/4 inches long.

They came home from the hospital yesterday, and I stopped by for a few minutes to kiss and snuggle him. Here he is wrapped in his Koigu Big Bad Baby Blanket, made especially for him by his favorite great-aunt.

"A baby is God's opinion that life should go on." -Carl Sandburg

Pistazie

2010-10-23T12:03:00.002-05:00

This is for Barbara in Maine . . .Wollmeise Pistazie WD lace-garn and Pistazie (regular skein) in twin.

All taken outside in natural light. Hope you like them.

2010-10-19T13:55:00.002-05:00

Another pair of socks finished. I believe this is pair #21 for the year. This is Malabrigo sock yarn in Tizano Red. The pattern is Kalajoki; they are knitted on 2.25 mm needles. I truly enjoyed knitting with this yarn. I did find it a little on the thin side, so I cast on 68 stitches instead of my usual 64. These are going to the STA Lobster Bash for the silent raffle.

Also going to the raffle is this scarf, knitted in Yarntini Chunky, Merlot colorway. The pattern is Stream, knitted on size 10.5 needles.

I got some Wollmeise goodies in the mail yesterday fromt The Loopy Ewe. It is their lace-garn. Talk about yardage . . . over 1700 per skein. I've never knitted with it, but I hear it is wonderful. I need to find the perfect pattern for it, as I have more coming soon. The first one is Campari Piccolo.
Next is Orient . . .

Altogether now . . .
Have a great week.

2010-10-14T16:32:00.003-05:00

I know I haven't been blogging very often lately, but, you know, school started, which means football started. And football includes high school (STA), college (LSU), and professional (Saints). So life got pretty busy, and the blogging went by the wayside. And to be perfectly honest, if I have a little time, I'd rather knit than blog. So for now, I've decided to at least keep a record of my FO's. There has been yarn coming in (tons of it), but I have not been photoing it.

My first pic is actually a WIP. As I said in my previous post, I am trying my hand at stranded knitting. This is my second attempt. It's a little hat in Wollmeise colors. I don't have the pattern name or yarn colors in front of me, and I don't feel like looking it up. I'll post that info when it is finished. My tension is getting better. Practice, practice.....

My first FO is a pair of socks in plain stockinette pattern. The yarn is Opal H3 - Blind Venus, knit on 2.25 mm needles. Love, love, love this yarn. These will go to a friend for her birthday.

Next FO is a baby blanket for a friend's baby that was born about a month ago. The yarn is Numma Numma Doppio in Frosting colorway, held double on size 9 needles. The pattern is Harvest Moon, which I am not a big fan of. I don't know what it was, but I had to MAKE myself finish this project. I never could get into a rhythm with it, but it came out very pretty.

The bottom 2 pics are one with and one without a flash.

I am finishing up a scarf and another pair of socks probably by this weekend, and I have started another baby blanket, so hopefully I'll post again soon.

Happy Knitting

2010-09-28T18:11:00.002-05:00

I finished the twins' (Blake and Brock) Slipper socks. I will give it to them this Thursday when I see them at school. I hope they like them and will wear them. They are made of Dream in Color Groovy, which is their chunky weight, in Bayou colorway, which is their September Dream Club color. The pattern is Slipper Socks, which came with the purchase of the yarn, knit on size 6 & 7 needles. The 2 pairs took a little more than 2 skeins of yarn.

I have been wanting to try my hand at stranded knitting. So when I saw this pattern in this month's Vogue Knitting magazine, I decided to try it. I ordered the yarn, Knit One, Crochet too, it came in, and I casted on Saturday. I finished them today - 4 days. Not too bad. This was knit on size 5 needles.
There is quite a bit of puckering. It is pretty hard to maintain tension.
From what I have read, it takes alot of practice.
These pictures are of the hat unblocked. It is soaking as I write this. Hopefully, blocking will even out some of the puckering. We'll see.

I really enjoyed doing this and already have another hat pattern picked out, The Hat Besserud by Pinneguri (who does unbelievable stranded work).

I am going to try to finish my Numma Numma blanket tonight while watching Biggest Loser. Only the border left to finish.

Starts and Finishes

2010-09-21T16:55:00.004-05:00

I started a scarf (I really dislike knitting scarves) out of Yarntini chunky in Merlot colorway. The pattern is Steam (slightly altered), and I am knitting it on size 10.5 needles. I am making this for the STA Lobster Bash.

And, even though I have 3 single socks right now without mates, I couldn't resist casting on another when I got this yarn in the mail from The Loopy Ewe. It is so fun to knit with.

I finished the Sockhead sock, in Yarntini McDreamy stripe. I think I am going to put this away and give it to Ashtyn for Christmas. It was very easy and fun to make. I can definitely see more of these in my future.

Next, I finished my Big Bad Baby Blanket in Koigu, just in time for Baby Gryffin's baby shower this past Sunday. He should make his arrival into the world in a few weeks.

These are also for BG (Baby Gryf).
Have a great week.

2010-09-11T13:09:00.004-05:00

This past week or so, I have started a few new things, finished a couple of things, and, of course, acquired a few skeins of yarn. (All the while watching tennis on TV).

I casted on a pair of Slipper Socks yesterday and knitted away. Let me tell you - chunky yarn + size 7 needles sure knits up quickly. I am making these for a couple of basketball players at our high school. They are twins, and they have asked me for about a year now to knit them some socks. They have even asked YS to ask me to make them socks. Well, you can imagine my hesitation to knit them socks. First of all, they're twins - so that means 2 of them which equals 4 socks. You know about SSS (second sock syndrome), but what about third and fourth sock syndrome? And as you can also imagine, they are basketball players; so you know what that means - size 12.5 feet!!! So when I came across this yarn, I thought it would be perfect for them. I stopped at this point so that YS can try them on for size purposes. Also, I think I'm gonna need another skein or two of yarn.

I also casted on a Sockhead Hat in Yarntini self-striping in McDreamy colorway. I actually have a few more inches done on this since the picture was taken.

I knitted up this little baby gift for a friend of mine whose son just had her first grandchild. It's knit in Socks that Rock heavyweight, Goody Goody colorway. The pattern is called Sweet Baby Kate from Carrie at Irishgirlieknits. I did make a couple of revisions, one of which is the ribbed edging on the hat and socks. The pattern calls for a picot edge, which I find very tedious and fiddly. The entire set only took about 3-4 hours of knitting time.
I also finished the little camouflage socks from the previous post for my great-nephew. They fit him perfectly. He put them on and ran around in them, slipping and sliding, despite 90 degree heat. I will have to get a picture of them on him, as I forgot to take a FO pic.

In yarn acquisitions, I received this skein of Vesper self-striping sock yarn in Harvest Summer colorway. I believe it was the August club color.

In a ravelry trade, I received 4 skeins of Wollmeise Molly in Pfefferminz Prinz. I'm not sure if I love this color so much. I might just hold onto it for trading purposes.

I got this kit from The Loopy Ewe in support of Ovarian Cancer. Sheri @ TLE is donating all of the proceeds from this kit to research for ovarian cancer.

And I got some beautiful Yarntini Chunky in Merlot. I will use this for a scarf, Cinder by Jared Flood, which I will probably donate to our high school for their annual Lobster Bash fundraiser.

This yarn is String Theory Caper sock in Essence colorway. It has cashmere in it. Need I say more?

And I received another Rainbow Cocktail set from the awesome Jessie at Yarntini. I can now finish my blanket.

WIP's and More Football

2010-08-30T15:15:00.002-05:00

I just started Part 4 of my Shetland Pi Shawl; I am enjoying this so much. The yarn is Dream in Color Classy, which is a worsted weight, in Petal Showers. It is wonderful to work on. I recently increased to 576 stitches per round, so progress may slow down just a bit. But I am going to be doing a lot of knitting in the next 2 weeks - the US Open started today.

I completed sock one of my no-purl Monkeys in Wollmeise twin, Skandal um Rosi. I love this yarn. It is literally flying off the needles.

Another single sock completed is my Malabrigo sock in Tiziano Red, Kalajoki pattern. I have never used Malabrigo sock yarn, and it too is great to knit with. It is a little on the thin side, so I casted on 68 stitches instead of my usual 64, on 2.25 mm needles.

As you know, YS is playing football again this year. He does not play alot in varsity games, but luckily, they have 9 junior varsity games scheduled this season. This past Saturday was the JV jamboree, where he played most of the game. The next few photos captures him making a tackle. He played really well.
Above - he's got his eye on the ball.

Below - he gets low and ready to pounce.
Below - he wraps him up.

And then takes him down.
Go Falcons!!!

And let's go, Andy!!

It's Football Season Again!!

2010-08-21T11:50:00.003-05:00

Alex is playing football again this year. That's him - #11. He plays defense - free safety. He is the person that has to tackle the person who has broken through everyone else. Usually, if he doesn't tackle the guy, they score a touchdown. Good luck, Al.

I finished another pair of socks yesterday. These are knit from Dream in Color Smooshy, Good Luck Jade colorway, on 2.25 mm needles. The pattern is Not So Cable Socks by Sockbug. This makes pair #17 this year.

Progress on the Harvest Moon baby blanket in Numma Numma Doppio Frosting . . . about 21 inches.

And the Wollmeise Skandal Monkeys . . . love the way they are striping.

This is the result of Part 2 of Wendy's Pi Shawl KAL. She posts the next part tomorrow.
Have a great weekend.

2010-08-18T14:54:00.003-05:00

I whipped up a little pair of "slipper socks" for Clay. They are Lorna's Laces sportweight in Camouflage color. Pattern is 2x2 rib for an inch, then turn the heel. I've stopped because I need to try them on him to measure the length. Hope they fit. He was so cute when I made the little Wollmeise top for Ashtyn a couple of weeks ago. After she tried it on, he took off his shirt and said, "I try it." LOL

I finished my July STR kit. I really like the way these turned out. The colors are very pretty, and I always like Anne Hanson's patterns. I'll definitely knit this pattern again.
The heel is supposed to look like a beet. I think it looks like a heart.
BTW, this is my 16th pair of socks that I have completed so far this year.

And, since I finished a pair, of course I started another. Wollmeise Skandal um Rosi in twin on 2.25 mm needles - no-purl Monkeys.
Have a great week. I am patiently waiting for part 2 of Wendy's shawl KAL. I'll post my progress in the next day or two.

Shawl KAL

2010-08-15T17:47:00.005-05:00

I decided to join a shawl KAL (knit-along). This one is on Wendy Johnson's blog here, and you can also see it here (ravelry link). She explains it all and has put up the first part of the pattern today. She will put up the second part this Wednesday, the third part next Sunday, and then the fourth and fifth parts up on the next two Sundays thereafter. You can, of course, work at your own pace.

The premise is that you can use whatever yarn you'd like - lace, fingering, sport, worsted, etc. - on whatever size needle you want. I am using Dream in Color Classy, which is a worsted weight, in Petal Shower colorway. I already had 4 skeins, and will probably need another 1 or 2 before it is finished. Oh, and I am using a size 8 needle.

The picture below is the first part. I think it looks like a boob.

I had a couple of visitors this weekend.
Don't let these 2 pictures deceive you. I assure you, they did not do a whole lot of lying around - only after much running and playing did they take brief naps.

Have a great week.

My Nueue Queue

2010-08-14T21:09:00.003-05:00

I added a couple of new things to the sidebar of the blog. First, I added "My Knitting Queue" so that I can better keep track of projects that I would like to, and/or plan to, knit. Often, I have things in my mind that I want to knit, but then new ideas pop up and replace the old ones. This way, I have something in print to remind me.

I also added "The Daily Puppy". I saw it and had to have it. I don't know about you, but puppy pictures just make me smile.

Here We Go

2010-08-12T11:50:00.002-05:00

I had to fiddle around a little, but I finally got the pictures of YS' first day of school downloaded.

This is him clowning around with Cubby . . . poor Cubs.

He is going to be in tenth grade this year.
Did I mention he got his Driver's permit yesterday? Look out.

News re. the other kids - TD started back to school this week too. She is busy attending meetings and getting her classroom ready. She'll be teaching 3rd grade again this year. It is hard to believe that this is her 4th year of teaching. OS is attending his first day of Law School orientation today at LSU. OMG, how did that happen? MS is on a plane as I type this to Las Vegas. He and some friends and their dads (yes, the HWWTM is going later today also) are going to celebrate their 21st birthdays. He starts school next week - he'll be a senior at LSU.

I'm a very proud momma.

2010-08-12T11:21:00.002-05:00

Progress on my Harvest Moon Blanket . . . about 11 inches.

Got my Loopy 4th Anniversary Kit in the mail this week. The yarn is Dream in Color Smooshy with Cashmere in the colorway, Joy in the Morning. It is beautiful and so smooshy.

Also included was a sock pattern called Argonauta Socks by Debbie O'Neill and a cute little cup with a painting of Loopy on the front. And in the bottom of the cup, it reads "Baa!"

I tried to download some pictures of YS' first day of tenth grade, but couldn't get the stupid computer to cooperate. He looked so handsome. I'm gonna try again.

Have a great day.

Surprise Baby Girls

2010-08-09T08:35:00.005-05:00

It seems that everyone is having baby girls these days. There are 3 that I recently found out about . . . a good business friend's new granddaughter (that is 7 months old, that the HWWTM forgot to tell me about), Cherami's baby (born Friday, didn't even know she was pregnant), and Mitch's baby (due next month, didn't know they were pregnant either). Anyway, all 3 are girls. You know what that means - pink blankets.

The first blanket was already made and waiting in my closet to be gifted to someone deserving . This is going to the 7 month old. It's a little on the bigger size for a baby blanket - 34" x 38", but it is beautiful. It has been knitted for awhile, so it won't be going on my FO list on the sidebar. It is made of Schaefer yarns, Elaine, in colorway Pebbles. The pattern is the one where it is knitted on the diagonal . . . increasing, increasing, increasing, then decreasing, decreasing, etc., you get the picture. Very pretty if I do say so myself.

More Wollmeise in the mail this week - Daisy WD in twin. I can't get enough of this color . . . it is probably going to be my next pair of socks.

And my July Yarntini club yarn is Blue Sky variegated. Is it me or does it seem that alot of the different club yarns have blues and yellows in them this summer? Beautiful, nonetheless.

My Big Bad Baby Blanket, heretofore to be referred to as BBBB, has been put on hold temporarily, as this baby is not due till October. Just look at that gorgeous seed stitch.

I have completed one of my July STR club socks, with the exception of kitchenering the toe. Love the color, love the pattern.

This is the second girl baby blanket in Numma Numma Doppio, Frosting colorway, held double on size 9 needles. The pattern is Harvest Moon Blanket by Aimee Alexander. This yarn is a dream to work with.
Have a great knitting week.

Socks That Rock Spoiler Included

2010-08-04T12:15:00.004-05:00

Another finished pair of socks, made from handspun purchased from Debland over at Etsy.

Just plain ole stockinette socks on 2.25 mm needles. I love them. Handspun is so wonderful to work with.

Have I said how addicting these colors are? I couldn't wait to finish one color so that I could get to the next. These are the coolest colors when all put together. They are, of course, Yarntini mini-skeins cocktail. I have used 2 sets of mini-skeins already. In the middle of the photo, you can see how much I have left. The wonderful Yarntini herself has aggreed to dye more for me so that I can finish my beautiful blanket. Right now it measures 30" x 26". I'd like to do at least one more repeat of each color, and then possibly a single crochet edging on the sides.

And, knowing me, you know I got yarn in the mail - Wollmeise. From top to bottom are Silberdistel, Suzanne, Aurora, Im Dunken Wald, and Baba Jaga. The bottom 4 were received in "grab bags" and 3 of them are duplicate colors that I already have. I will probably use them for trades for colors that I don't have. That's the way things work in the world of Wollmeise.

And some wonderful Wollmeise Molly, which is a DK or worsted weight, which is destined to become a little vest for my 2 1/2 year old great-nephew.

SPOILER!!!

STR SPOILER!!!

My July Socks That Rock kit arrived last week. It is an awesome color, plus a small skein of their cotton yarn, which I've never tried, as well as 3 patterns. Two of the patterns look great, and I look forward to knitting both of them soon. The 3rd, Flip Flop Socks, will likely never be used. I'll probably use the small cotton skein for a baby hat or booties or something like that.

An upclose pic of the yarn "Firecracker" . . . .

And while I wait for my extra yarn from Yarntini to finish the first blanket, I'll start another. I will be using my go-to pattern, Big Bad Baby Blanket, with my go-to yarn, Koigu.
Off to wind my yarn and cast on . . .

All Grown Up

2010-08-03T20:28:00.003-05:00

Josh, usually known here on the blog as MS (middle son), turned 21 years old this past Sunday, 8/1. He is such a wonderful young man, and I am very proud of the adult he is becoming.

He will be a senior at LSU this fall and plans to continue his education after his graduation next May.
This is him with his baby, Bailey. She is a little bit bigger now - about 40 lbs bigger - and he has trained her to be a well-mannered and happy puppy.

Below is a picture of all 4 guys - Josh, John, Dad and Alex - when they played in a golf tournament in Florida a few weeks ago. So proud of all of them.
Happy Birthday, Josh! Love u!

I Promised Yarn

2010-07-27T15:13:00.003-05:00

I got a little yarn in the mail while I was on vacation. Do you know how much fun it is to come home to a bunch of packages to open?

Just a little warning . . . there are some sock club spoilers included in this post.

The first is from a Ravelry trade . . . Daisy WD

Next is The Loopy Ewe July sock club kit . . .

Two skeins of Alchemy yarn in Autumn Ecstasy colorway, 2 patterns - Autumnal Neck Cozy by Wendy D. Johnson and Karya by Monica Jines, scissors, a tape measure and some sticky tabs.

I've never tried this yarn before, but I am looking forward to knitting with it.

Next is Yarntini Melon Baller variegated . . .

I've also joined Vesper Sock Yarn Club for the Summer. The first skein is Citrus mini-striping...

Some lovely Numma Numma Doppio in this is only a test (turquoise). . . These yarns are going to become very valuable as NN will not be dyeing for the next year due to a temporary move. I am going to miss her yarns. Good thing I have lots to tide me over.

Next up are Wollmeise grab bags -

Kurbis & Sanguinello . . .

Feldmauschen & Regenbogen . . .

Ebenholz & Dani (one of my faves) . . .

And Jultomte and Versuchskaninchen (beautiful) . . .

That's all for now. I'm off to TD's - she's having TMJ surgery in a couple of days, and I have to play nurse for awhile. You know what that means - dr. appts, hospital waiting rooms - lots of knitting time.

There Has Been Knitting

2010-07-26T18:53:00.002-05:00

I will start with my newest project. I started this yesterday afternoon, and I am so addicted to it. It is a baby blanket pattern, Creamy Waves from the book "200 Stitch Patterns for Baby Blankets". The yarn is Yarntini - Rainbow Cocktail in merino sock. There are 7 mini-skeins of yarn. The colors are unbelievable. I am holding the yarn double on a size 9 needle. I love working on it.

I am changing colors after 6 rows. I have about 7 inches done so far.

My current sock project is made from Dream in Color Smooshy in Good Luck Jade colorway. The pattern is Not So Cable Socks by Sockbug on 2.25 mm needles. I love this yarn. I decided to not continue the pattern on the foot and to just rib the foot. This yarn is fabulous to knit with.

My "car" project is a plain stockinette sock in handspun yarn - Country- in organic merino wool. I got this on Etsy from DebbieB. Turns out that she is a local girl from Louisiana, who lives only an hour from me and has a sister who lives in my town. Small world. Her yarn is great to work with. The subtle color changes keep me interested.

Now on to my Finished Objects . . .

I finished this while at the beach on vacation. It is Fiona's Top from Rasmilla knits4kids. It is for my 5 year old great-niece. I actually knitted the size 2 because of the chest size, and added to the length. The yarn is Wollmeise 100% superwash in Tutu and My Old Blue Jeans colors. I love the way this turned out. I do still have to find buttons and sew them on.

I also started and finished a baby blanket while on vacation. The yarn in Sanguine Gryphon Skinny Bugga in Holly Blue Butterfly knitted on size 9 needles (held double). The pattern is Cradle Me by Anne Hanson - knitspot. Blocked size is 30" x 30". I was making it for my nephew's baby who is due in October, but a friend and employee's daughter had a baby a few days ago, and I decided to give it to them. I have time to make another.

Finished these before leaving for vacation, but did not have a chance to photo and blog about them. They are Socks That Rock - Calico colorway - lightweight, knit on 2.25 mm needles. The pattern is from the May 2010 kit "Swing Set".
That's all for now. I have lots of yarn to photograph and blog about. Stay tuned.

Dear Blog

2010-07-26T10:16:00.002-05:00

Dear Blog,

I know I have been gone a long, long time, and that I have totally neglected you. I am so sorry. The issue is uploading pictures. You see, I cannot find an uncomplicated way to put a picture on you with this new Mac computer. It is just way too much trouble. And you know I hate to blog without pictures.

I promise to do better. I think I have a plan. I am going to buy a small little camera card thingy just for you, and use it for only my knitting. Hopefully, that will make it easier.

Oh, and I've been busy and on vacation too. But I have been knitting, so I do have lots to show.

Be back later.

Love,

AngKnits

2010-06-23T11:28:00.003-05:00

So Beau went back home to his daddy - all better . . .

Finished the Lorna's Laces camouflage socks - they're on their way to the recipient as I write this. Did not take any pics of the finished product.

Bailey is here now. She was spayed yesterday, so MS brought her here to recuperate.

Waiting for some Wollmeise grab bags - hope they come in the mail today. If they don't contain what I hoping for . . . Mauerblumchen and Daisy, I'm gonna pull out the big guns for a trade.

Have a great day.

Edited to add: Heard from the vet late today. Beau does have a rare tick-borne disease - Neospora Caninum - which will require at least 8 weeks of treatment. So glad they figured it out.

He's Better

2010-06-21T13:48:00.002-05:00

On the knitting front, I have pulled out my Log Cabin Blanket that has been hibernating for quite awhile. I think that I have found comfort in the constant garter stitch. It is made from Blue Moon heavyweight in 6 different blue colors on a size 6 needle. It's about 31" x 35". I am addicted. I can hardly put it down.

I have to put the blanket down for the time being though. I need to complete these socks today. Luckily, they're sportweight and they go pretty fast. I need to finish these today, so that I can block them tomorrow, so that the HWWTM can bring them to their recipient. And he is going to be with their recipient Wednesday. Gotta get to work.

Our boy is definitely getting better. He is almost back to his old self. He is resting right now, but in between his frequent naps, he is playing and moving around with very little stiffness or any sign that he has been so sick. It happened Saturday evening when MS brought his puppy, Bailey, home to visit. The 2 dogs started playing like there was nothing wrong. We got home from a party late that night and couldn't believe our eyes. He even swam for several hours Sunday afternoon. I think I am still going to keep him a few more days just to make sure he does not have a relapse, but I think he is going to be ok.

Shout out to my husband who has been and is a wonderful father to our children. He is stern and strict when he needs to be, but loving and giving when the occasion arises. We haven't always seen eye to eye on issues involving the kids (I am just a tad more lenient), but I know he will never let me or them down. Happy Father's Day!!!

Beau Update

2010-06-18T17:25:00.004-05:00

Our puppy is doing a little better, I think. The vet called this morning and reported that he does NOT have lymphoma. Phew!! Still not sure what it is, may know next week sometime when we get the blood cultures back from Auburn, but we may never know.

They did change one of his antibiotics yesterday, thinking that this new one would cover 2 tick-borne diseases that they suspect he may have. These are uncommon, but prevalent in south US when they do occur. We think this new antibiotic may be the one helping him, or maybe one of the other 2 that he has been on for a couple of days kicked in.

He is moving around a little better today. He is able to rise from a lying down position without help. He is able to sit and lay down easier. His back is not as hunched when he walks. And while he still walks slowly and gingerly, it appears to be a little better. He actually trotted down the driveway a little ways while following me to go bring in the trash cans.

Overall, he is staying awake longer and sleeping a little less. His tail is wagging a little more, and that is a good sign. I couldn't find him at one point today, and he had climbed up the stairs. I have some pics of him, but they're on my iphone, and I don't know how to download them from it to the blog. Maybe YS will come home soon and help me out.

Edited to Add: YS came home and helped me put the pics in.

The middle picture is where I found him asleep this morning when I got up.

The last picture shows the 2 cases of water he later peed on.

Sick Puppy

2010-06-17T10:04:00.003-05:00

My poor little Beau Beau . . . he was perfectly fine this past weekend, running in the backyard, swimming in the pool. All of a sudden, Monday afternoon, he became lethargic and was in obvious pain. OS brought him to the vet Tuesday, where they ran tests to try to find out what was wrong with him. The regular vet sent him to LSU Veterinarian School Wednesday, where more tests were run. And, still, they don't know what is wrong. He is on 3 different broad-spectrum antibiotics and pain meds. Hopefully, we'll know more this afternoon. If not, then more tests. He's staying with his grandmother (me), so that he can be properly taken care of.

Tempted Spoiler Alert!!!

Look no further if you are in the Tempted & 3AM club. . .

Stacy and Keri, of Tempted Yarns and 3AM bags respectively, came up with this lovely kit for the June installment of their club. The yarn is a lovely mix of pinks, purples and mauve in 100% Superwash Merino called Pocket full of Posies. The matching bag is a small sock project bag. Also included are a sample of Soak and a little gadget called a barrel counter holder. It can also be used as a stitchmarker keeper. A free fingerless mitt pattern is also available to club members.

Started and finished a sock this week (with the exception of kitchenering the toe closed). It is the STR club pattern, Swing Set, but knit in Calico colorway instead of the club colorway. Very fun, easy pattern, and love the color of this yarn.

Look what I got in the mail Monday . . . Wollmeise in Lila Ludmilla, Spinaci, Pistazie and Golden Pear . . . beautiful colors.
Top picture taken without flash, bottom photo with. . .
Have a great week. I'll be spending alot of time knitting in the vet's office.

2010-06-10T15:43:00.006-05:00

MAY ROCKING SOCK CLUB SPOILERS!!!!!

(sorry, I should have put this up sooner)

I love whipping up little booties. They only take a few hours and can be made on a Sunday afternoon. These were made for my friend's new grandson to match the blanket I made for him. They are Magic Slippers from Sock Pixie, a really fun and easy pattern.

My May Socks That Rock kit finally made it. I am kind of on the fence about it. It is one of Blue Moon's "spirit" colorways. I've never seen one irl. They are "barely there" colorways. This is cream with a hint of olive and peach. I think I would like it better if had just a touch more color. The name of the color is Sweet Pea. I'm not sure if or when I'll knit it.

The kit came with 2 patterns, Ada Lovelace and Swing Set, both anklets.

I also received my May Yarntini skein, Mint Fizz.

I received a beautiful skein of Wollmeise in a Ravelry trade - Tant Gron, tant Brun......

I started a new project last weekend while at the beach - Fiona's Top. I am using Wollmeise Tutu, with My Old Blue Jeans for the trim on the neckline. I am using 3 mm and 3.5 mm needles. This will be for my 5 year old great-niece. I am loving the way it is turning out.
Have a great weekend.

Socks, Socks & More Socks

2010-06-01T13:16:00.007-05:00

How about these socks (the ones on the HWWTM) to start off the post? One of the advantages of having a workaholic husband is that he wins lots of very nice trips. We were in Bermuda last week. On the last night there, the men were given Bermuda shorts to wear to the banquet. This is the way that the men dress up in Bermuda, with the shorts, knee socks, dress shoes, and a coat and tie.

Bermuda is a very beautiful place. We spent a couple of days lounging on the beach and a couple of days by the pool - it was pretty relaxing.

Of course, no post would be complete without a skein of Wollmeise. This one is called Graf Ratz (which means blue-blooed rat). It's a very beautiful dark bluish gray (or grayish blue).

And this is Griddle Grits - Numma Numma in the usual. A very pretty yellow.

These were finished on the flight home from Bermuda. They're Lorna's Laces in Grumperina colorway. The pattern is Staccato Socks, done on 2.25 mm needles. I'm not sure I like the way these striped. I wish the whole sock had done something like the heel flap striping. These probably will be gifted.

These are Wollmeise Die Auster colorway. I am not exaggerating when I tell you that these babies practically knitted themselves. They literally flew off the needles. My only regret about them is that I made them too big to keep for myself. Poo. They'll go in the gift pile too.

Speaking of flying off the needles, I made this sock in 2 days. Boy, you just can't beat a good sportweight, can you? This is Lorna's Laces sportweight in camouflage color, knitted in a 3x1 rib. They're for a friend who requested a pair of handknit socks. BTW, his wife knits, but she knits mostly for their grandchildren.

I've picked up my Waves of Lace tank again. It is Wollmeise Spina di Pesci colorway. I have the back done, and this is the front. Only a few hours of work left. I started this last June, so it is time to finish it, don't you think?

Ok, I think we're all caught up now. Have a great week.

FO's

2010-05-18T18:31:00.004-05:00

A new skein of yarn from a Ravelry trade . . . We're Different (likely Barista).

Mama Llama socks in Woven Stitch pattern . . .

A Little Jazz in Numma Numma The Special, Cupcakes! colorway . . .
Need to get started on new baby stuff - just found out we're having another boy in the family. He'll be my great-nephew.

Leaving to go outta town tomorrow . . . talk to ya when I get back.

Yarn P*rn Friday

2010-05-14T11:08:00.004-05:00

A few (and I use the term "few" loosely, obviously) skeins of yarn may have been delivered to my house this week. A couple of Kunterbunt grab bags of Wollmeise from the 5/1 update are pictured below. If I were a computer/techie/camera savvy person, I might know why my pictures turned out up-and-down instead of sideways. (See, I don't even know what to call the position of the photos. LOL)

Anyway, here they are . . . top to bottom, Versuch (maybe a light magnolie?), Fleiderbush, Jultomte, Schwammerl and Forster's Gluck.

And the second photo, top to bottom, Lavendel, Versuch (a beautiful turquoise), Okzident, Sanguinello and Strohblume.

Third photo, Yarntini's April variegated skein in Sunshine colorway.

Fourth, The Loopy Ewe's May Sock Club kit, which includes 3 little red mesh bags within a bag, a skein of Fleece Artist BFL yarn in Daffodil, and 2 patterns, one sock and one shawl. The sock pattern is May Flowers by Debbie O'Neill. It's a really neat pattern, but it's toe-up. Probably won't knit it. The shawl pattern is called Reflection Shawl. I'll probably knit the shawl with the Yarntini yarn.

Below is a picture of a little kit I got from Numma Numma this week. It is called Cupcake kit, and it is for these mittens. I'll probably make fingerless mitts with it. I read somewhere that you can get 2 pairs of fingerless mitts out of one kit.

Aren't all of these colors great? It's one large skein and a bunch of little mini skeins.

And, to prove that I have been knitting. I have completed one and started the second Mama Llama Autism socks in Woven Stitch pattern.

And I have completed one, but have not started the second Lorna's Laces Grumperina in Staccato Socks pattern.

Gratuitous puppy picture . . . She's still heeeeeere. . . . Bailey. She's an adorable puppy, and she has a lot of energy. Her daddy finishes finals tomorrow and is coming to get her.

Have a great weekend.

I may have some more yarn coming in today's mail. Just sayin'.

Before & After . . .

2010-05-14T11:00:00.002-05:00

Somebody went to the Pet Cottage for a haircut this week . . .
It looks ok, I guess . . .

But he feels so much better. He can actually stay outside longer than 2 minutes without wanting to come in.

Mother's Day

2010-05-10T13:22:00.003-05:00

We had a wonderful Mother's Day celebration this past Sunday. My cousin, who is like a sister to me, came over with her husband and 3 sons. Her parents, my favorite aunt and uncle, came, as well and my mom and step-dad. Missing was TD, who had to return to Birmingham Saturday after OS' graduation. We had boiled crawfish, which somehow did not get photographed, and barbeque. The boys, all 6 of them, and the 2 dogs swam all afternoon.

This is my aunt, on the left, and mom, on the right (obviously). My aunt was like a second mom to me. I spent a lot of my youth with her and her 3 daughters.

L to R: my cousin, my aunt, my niece, mom and me

And I have a little visitor for the week. MS has finals this week and must concentrate on his studies. Even though Bailey is a very good puppy, she still needs a lot of attention. Isn't she adorable?

She gets along very well with Beau - it only looks like they are fighting. I assure you, they're playing. They do this constantly, until one of them throws up the white flag, and then they go to their respective corners and nap. Then one of them wakes up, goes and nudges the other, and it starts all over again. It's very funny to watch. My 2 dogs, Coco and Cubby, usually watch from the couch tucked in safely next to me. They want no part of it.

There is knitting going on, and of course, there is yarn coming in. I will tell you about all of that later this week.

Family Photo

2010-05-10T13:08:00.004-05:00

My beautiful family . . .This photo was taken this past Saturday at my oldest son's graduation. He received his M.B.A. from Millsaps College. He has decided to continue his education and will attend LSU law school in the fall. We are very proud of him and his accomplishments.

In the photo, from left to right, are - Amanda (TD) my beautiful daughter, my hubby (the HWWTM), John (OS), me (proud mama to all), Alex (YS), and Josh (MS).

I'll have a Mother's Day post tomorrow. Have a great day.

Proud Mama

2010-05-05T17:53:00.004-05:00

So proud of my baby boy . . . he is finishing his freshman year of high school and he is a pole vaulter. He works very hard at it. He has a wonderful coach, Erica Bartolina, who pole vaulted in the Beijing Olympics. We are so lucky to have such an accomplished athlete so close to coach him.

He has been pole vaulting since 6th grade, when some of his older brother's friends taught him the basics. His then track coach told him that he could enter the upcoming track meet if he could get over 5 feet. He did that on the first day of practice, and he's been hooked ever since.

This year his PR - personal record - is 11 feet.

There are only 2 pole vaulters in our high school, he and a sophomore friend. They placed first and second in our district.

The pictures in this post are at the regional meet in New Orleans, where he placed 7th, I believe. He was one of only 2 freshmen there. He "only" vaulted 10 feet at this meet, so he was not happy.

The above photo shows him trying to get over 10'6". As you can see, he knocked the bar down and didn't make it. Did I mention he was not happy?!?!

But he is a winner in my heart. Do you see how high in the air he is? Amazing!!!

And now to brag on my oldest baby - Amanda whipped out a Girasole in a few weeks time. She knits like she is on a mission. You know how some people are process knitters, and some are product knitters? Well, she is a product knitter. She knits to "finish" a project. That's not to say that she doesn't enjoy knitting, but I think she likes the feeling of accomplishment when she finishes something. But then, don't we all? She brought the Girasole to me to block for her. It is made of Malabrigo yarn on size 9 needles, I think. It measures 5 feet across. It is so beautiful and soft.

This is my baby blanket made for my friend's grandbaby that is due next month. It is made from Yarntini sportweight in Designated Driver colorway on size 6 needles. The pattern is Heirloom Baby Blanket, and it measures 32" x 35". I really like how this turned out.

As you can see, both blankets are blocking side by side on beach towels in my foyer.

I don't think I've mentioned this little thingy I've been working on for about a week. It's called A Little Jazz - the pattern came in March's Loopy Ewe Sock Club. It is the smaller version of Shawl That Jazz, which I made last year. The yarn is Numma Numma's Saucy in Cupcakes! colorway. I'm using size 3 needles. I'm on the ruffle now. I'll probably make the ruffle fairly long as I have a ton of yardage. It's all garter stitch, so it's a very easy, fun knit.

That's all I have for now. Have a great week.

My Beautiful Kunterbunt

2010-04-26T15:38:00.004-05:00

I received this in the mail today . . .

A Most Beautiful Kunterbunt (mixed colors) Bag of Wollmeise from 4/17 update.

My Old Blue Jeans (my favorite Wollmeise blue, not a we're different skein), Raku Regenbogen (also not a we're different skein), Ruby Thursday (my favorite Wollmeise red), Versuchskaninchen (which means guinea pig, but I think it may be the new color, Schwammerl), and Jeton.

The top picture was taken in full sunlight, the second was taken in the shade.

I'm not really sure if this is Schwammerl, because the ones I have seen online are more greenish. Whatever it is, it's gorgeous.

Edited to add: This is definitely a Spice Schwammerl.

Raku - Regenbogen . . . one of the most sought after colorways. I now have a "real" skein, a WD skein, and a Versuch that looks like RR.

Aren't these 3 colorways beautiful together?

And these 2 complement each other as well. Very, very happy with this bag. And I received it in record time. I was afraid I wouldn't see it for awhile because of all of the flight delays, so I was pleasantly surprised to find it in today's mail.

Hope everyone has a wonderful week. This sure starts mine off on the right foot.

Starts and Finishes

2010-04-22T15:55:00.002-05:00

I started some things this week, and I finished a couple of things this week. I started these socks in Mama Llama Original 3-ply Autism colorway on 2.25 mm needles. The pattern is Woven Stitch from Sensational Knitted Socks.

And who doesn't love Lorna's Laces? This is Grumperina color on 2.25 mm needles. Pattern is Staccato Socks from Knitting Socks with Handpainted Yarn.

I finished the March STR sock club kit. It was a fun knit. They're a little big for me, plus I'm not crazy about sportweight socks, so these will go in the gift pile.

Next, I finished the Zauberball socks. I love, love, loved this yarn. It was a blast to knit with, anticipating the color changes. I will definitely knit with this yarn again. These are for me.

And, of course, I got some yarn in the mail this week. This is Sanguine Gryphon, 4 skeins of Cotton Stainer (a blanket's worth), and a skein of Karner's Blue. Can you say "cashmere"?

And . . . . . Wollmeise Im Jahr der Ratte (in the year of the rat) x2, en klein wenig verrucht (a little bit wicked), Kuken (chick) and Mohrchen (little carrot).

I am also still working on my Yarntini baby blanket. It is about 25-26" long. I think I'm going to make it about 32" long and then do a single crochet edging around it. My goal is to have it finished by the end of April. Baby is not due until June, but they are out-of-town, so it may need to be shipped. We'll see.

Have a good week.

WIP Wednesday

2010-04-14T17:51:00.005-05:00

Long time no blog, I know. Last week was Spring Break, which was spent at the beach. Lots of sun and some knitting. Below are some things I've been working on.

The Heirloom Baby Blanket in Yarntini sportweight in Designated Driver colorway on size 6 needles. I just finished the second skein of yarn, and it is measuring about 18.5 inches long. I'm going to have plenty of yarn (I have 4 skeins total). I wish I had made it a little wider - it measures about 28 inches across, but maybe it will block out a couple more inches. I'll probably knit about 12 inches more, then do a single crochet around the edge.

Second, the Crazy Zauberball sock in plain stockinette on 2.25 mm needles. I love the way this knits up. It is so fun!! And addictive. I definitely see more of this yarn in my future.

Next, the March Socks That Rock kit. I've actually done the heel flap since this picture was taken. It's mediumweight knitted on 2.5 mm needles.

And a little yarn p*rn . . . Numma Numma Doppio in Sage Basil (x2), Spiced Apple and Chocolate Teal, purchased from The Loopy Ewe.

Another Zauberball Starke 6 which is the sportweight version of Crazy Zauberball from what I can tell.

And, lastly, Yarntini's March installment . . . Buzzed.

Have a great week.

No More Titles . . . Sometimes

2010-04-01T10:21:00.005-05:00

The reason for the title is that I have a really hard time thinking up catchy titles. So I've decided that I'm not always going to use a title . . . only sometimes.

I thought I'd share a picture of my favorite knitting spot. I'm not really sure who snapped this picture, but this is where I can usually be found.

I wanted to show the progress I've made on my Yarntini baby blanket. This is such a fun knit, with the pattern changing every 6-8 rows. I already have 11" made on it. I'll definitely be using this pattern again.

I started my March Socks That Rock kit. Then I started it again. It is mediumweight yarn, and the pattern calls for a 2.5mm needle. I casted on 56 stitches, as per instructions for the smallest size, and did the first 6 rounds of garter stitch, and it was waaaaay big. So I ripped, pulled out a 3.0 mm needle, which is what I usually use for STR mediumweight yarn, and casted on 48 stitches, which is what I usually . . . you get the picture, and I'm gonna have to fudge the pattern as I go along, because there are no instructions for a 48-stitch cast-on. We'll see how this goes.

And I told you there'd be a Wollmeise-fest one day this week. Below are some of the purchases and trades that I've made over the past few weeks.

Small Gemischt bag - Rhabarber and Brombeere

Small Think Pink - Miss May and Magnolie medium

Got these in trades - 3 Old Blue Jeans and Dani

Lace-garn in Ruby Thursday

Lace-garn in Taube

An order from The Loopy Ewe - Turkise Markise, Johannisbeer & Brennessel, Magnolie dark, Tambopata and, yep, another Old Blue Jeans. (I love blue.)

A Versuch (maybe Tolkschire (sp?) and Amethyst dark

Lilac grab bag - 2 Versuch's

A trade - Maus Jung

And lest anyone think I am a total Wollmeise glutton, I have been selling and trading lots also. Maybe not quite as much as is coming in, but some is going out too.

Have a great weekend.

2010-03-29T17:48:00.003-05:00

I totally missed out on some milestones this past month - my one year blogiversary, Amanda's (TD) 25th birthday, and Alex's (YS) 15th birthday. I think that is why I haven't blogged in 2 weeks. I didn't know how to fit it all in, so I did what I do best . . . I procrastinated.

First, I am very proud of myself for keeping up with this blog for an entire year. Until this latest lapse in blogging, I have consistently blogged at least once a week. Therefore, I have a very nice record of my knitting adventures.

Second, I am even more proud of my beautiful daughter. She turned 25 years old on 3/22 (I actually had her when I was 12, you know). She is in her 3rd year of teaching, her second year teaching 3rd grade. I hear she is a wonderful teacher, and any child would be blessed to have her as their teacher. She is working on her Master's degree and should be finished with that in June. She has been living on her own for almost 7 years. She is truly a blessing.

Third, Alex turned 15 this month on the 20th. He is a freshman in high school. He is on the football team, and is the only freshman who made the golf team. He is an excellent pole vaulter. His PR (that means personal record in pole vault talk) is 10'6". At practice yesterday, he cleared 11'6". He is really enthusiastic about his sport, and I am very proud of his dedication and hard work.

Lastly, I've been knitting . . .

This is a baby blanket I started yesterday. It's Yarntini sportweight in Designated Driver colorway knitted on a size 6 needle. The pattern is Heirloom Baby Blanket. It's a really fun knit as the pattern changes every 6-8 rows. It incorporates garter stitch, stockinette, seed, moss, and basketweave stitches. This blanket is for a friend's grandbaby that is due in June.

I finished a second sock. I think I did the first one last summer. It's knitted toe-up, and my toe-up socks always come out too big. I finally did the second one because my friend's birthday is this weekend, and she's the only person I know who may fit in these.

The yarn is Handmaiden Casbah, and the pattern is Whine & Roses by Wendy D. Johnson, knitted on 2.25 mm needles.

And these were a breeze to make. It's the first kit from The Loopy Ewe sock club. I did the pattern cuff down instead of toe-up, and they flew off the needles. I love top down. The yarn is Fiesta Baby Boom in Spring Chill colorway. The pattern is March Mosiac Socks knitted on 2.25 mm needles.

SPOILER ALERT!!!

SPOILER ALERT!!

It's the second Socks That Rock kit, and it's beautiful. The yarn is very "spring-y". It's called My Wild Irishgirlie.

There are 2 patterns included: Slip Jig and Secret Garden. I'll probably be doing Slip Jig because it's cuff-down.

And a gratuitous puppy picture - this is Bailey, growing like a weed. She spent the night with me while her daddy (Josh) went to the LSU spring football game and a crawfish boil. He didn't want to leave her in her kennel all day, so I kept her. She's so adorable. She's friendly and curious and very playful.

Next weekend is Easter, which means all of the kids and their doggies will be home. Can't wait.

Also, stay tuned for a Wollmeise-filled post later this week. It's been raining Wollmeise the past 2 weeks around her.

Have a great week.

2010-03-15T15:05:00.003-05:00

The first installment of the 2010 Tempted @ 3AM Yarn and Bag Club arrived this weekend. It is just beautiful! The yarn is called Lil' Luxe Grrl, which is merino, cashmere and nylon in Oasis colorway. The bag is called the Classic KIP bag. I already have a couple of these, and I love them. Also included are some great stitch markers from Tempted Tassels by Muriel and a sample of my favorite, Soak in Aquae. An absolutely beautiful kit . . . love the colors and everything about it.

I finished my socks in Numma Numma the Regular in Stump Brew colorway. The pattern is Monkey (no-purl, of course) by Cookie A, knit on 2.25 mm needles. Since it is a light fingerweight, they turned out a little tight for my high instep (fat foot). But TD tried them on, and they fit her perfectly. So they're on their way to Birmingham as I write this.

Josh was home with Bailey for the weekend. We heated the pool, so she could take a swim.

After her swim, she got a nice bath. Of course, Josh's gf is always there to help.

This is gf's little dog, Milee. She's a 3# Pomeranian, who is so entertaining. That's her "squeaker" on the ground in front of her. She plays fetch CONSTANTLY.

This is TD's dog, Tiger. It was hard to get a good picture of her cause she's so dark. She also wants to play fetch CONSTANTLY.

We had a great weekend with the kids and the dogs. I love when they come to visit.

On the knitting front, I'm plugging away on the February Lady Sweater. I decided not to frog it. I also started a sock. It's actually a "second" sock. It's The Purple Rose of Loopy. It always feels good to take the plunge and cast on that second sock instead of starting a new project. That's not to say that it doesn't feel good to cast on a new project too. LOL.

I do want to finish up this sweater soon. I think it will make a nice spring sweater to throw on over a tee. Plus, I have a couple of baby blankets I need to get started on fairly soon.

Have a great week.

To Frog Or Not To Frog . . .

2010-03-12T14:07:00.004-06:00

I can't decide what to do about my February Lady Sweater. My problem is unmatching skeins of yarn. I knitted the top part with one skein, which was pretty dark. Then, started a second skein just about where the lace part starts, and noticed it was much lighter than the first one. So I wound another skein, and it was dark, but not quite as dark as the first one, so I decided to alternate skeins 2 & 3. Well, this is the result below, and I'm just not quite sure I'm happy with it. This first picture is the front . . .

. . . and the back . . .

. . . and a close up of the lace, which kinda has a mottled effect.
I really like it, and I don't want to frog. I'm thinking over a dark tee or even a light one, it might not be so noticeable. Or people may just think I planned it that way.

To be continued . . .

If you don't care for dogs, or you just don't want to look at other people's dog pictures, you can quit reading now. I know most knitters are cat people anyway, so it's not a problem. That's why I put the knitting content first.

These pics are from last weekend when Beau and Bailey came to visit. Beau wasn't quite so sure about getting into the pool. He would get on the steps, but go no further. Maybe it was too cold, but that's never stopped him before.

The canal in the back yard wasn't too cold for him obviously. He's getting a bath under the hose here after a little run through the canal.

Here he is sunning after his bath. He's SO BEAUTIFUL. And it's a good thing, because he is so B.A.D. That's Bailey behind him trying to decide whether or not she wants to make friends with her "cousin".

I told you he's gorgeous . . .

And isn't she precious? And so loveable. And GOOD. (Thanks God).

The cousins did make friends and played well together. They play tug-o-war with a rope. Actually, Beau just dragged her around mostly.

And when she would get distracted, he would bring the rope to her and set it in front of her to entice her to play some more.

More sniffing . . .

And then Bailey had enough. She slept and slept and slept. Josh said she slept for hours.

He's bringing her back this weekend to see TD and her dog, Tiger. So I'll have more puppy pictures to post next week. TD is coming in for a few days for a wedding shower and then is off to Florida for spring break.

I'm going to find a tee to put under my FLS to see if that makes a difference in the coloring of the yarn.

Have a good weekend.

New Yarn and Weekend Visitors

2010-03-08T16:32:00.002-06:00

I received some lovely Wollmeise in the mail this past Saturday. Unfortunately, it seems that I am being reverse-stalked by these 2 colorways: Rhabarber and Dunkle Kirsche. These 2 are for sale.

I also got these 2 lovelies: Regenbogen and Maus Jung. These are not for sale.

SPOILER ALERT!!!

If you haven't received your Loopy Ewe Sock Club kit for March yet, don't look any further!!!

A very nice kit . . .

A lovely skein of Fiesta Boomerang in Spring Chill colorway made specifically for TLE, a great-looking sock pattern by Wendy D. Johnson called March Mosiac Socks and a shawl pattern by Samantha Roshak called A Little Jazz. I love the sock pattern, but dislike knitting toe-up socks. I have 2 single socks that are both toe-up patterns that I am gonna have to make myself do the second one of each. I don't seem to have this problem with top-down patterns. I may do a little swatch of the pattern and turn it upside down and just see how it looks.

I completed my Scrappy Lengthwise Scarf made of 4 colors, which I love. It does have a few little flaws - my cast-on is a little loose, and my bind-off a little tight. I still think it is beautiful and am very happy with it. I definitely see myself making more of these and just need to choose colors.

It turned out 5" across and 66" in length. Perfect size.

I spent part of Saturday morning organizing my knitting patterns . . .

Luckily, I finished my organizing before John and Josh arrived with Beau and Bailey. Yes, the cousins met, and after a few minutes, they were the best of friends and played nicely together.

I took tons of pictures of the 2 of them and will post those in a day or two.

Have a great week.

I Couldn't Resist

2010-03-02T13:06:00.002-06:00

I casted on another sock. I couldn't resist. It's Numma Numma the regular in Stump Brew colorway. The pattern is Monkey (no-purls) by Cookie A, done on 2.25 mm needles. It's a little tight, because the yarn is a light fingering weight, but I think it will be ok after blocking.

Here is the first completed RSC sock. I'll probably make the other NN sock, then the second RSC sock.

This is Numma Numma's new Toasty base that I caught in The Loopy Ewe update last week. This colorway is called Toasty Treat (dark).

And this is Sprinkles for Stella colorway. Love it, so bright and cheerful. I think it would make a cute little girl's sweater or baby blanket.

Here are a couple of Wollmeise grabs I received this week. The first is 100% Herzblut WD and Johannisbeer & Brennessel WD. The Herzblut is for sale. It is a beautiful blood red, but I already have 2 of them.

This second one is 100% Gazpacho WD and Blue Tinte WD. These 2 are for sale as well. I already have these.

Have a great week!!!

New Addition to the Family

2010-02-27T16:40:00.006-06:00

We've got a new addition to our family this weekend - a new grandpuppy. She's a yellow lab pup about 6 1/2 weeks old, 7-8 lbs and cute as a button. Her name is Bailey. Josh (MS) decided he needed a pet. He's never been much of an "animal person", but his gf is in pre-vet and loves animals, so I guess she's rubbed off on him. Have I mentioned that we love her? The gf, that is. Oh, and the puppy too.

She is very friendly and loves to chew and play.

Josh had the foresight to get her a couple of toys - a little chew rope . . .

. . . and a little monkey toy that she loves. I think his name is Marvin or Melvin or something like that, can't remember. LOL

She eats really well, and slept through the night last night (in the bed with him, can you believe?). She is quickly potty training too.

I think she is going to be a nice addition to the family. The number of dogs in the family are almost equal to the number of people (5:6). I think we need another puppy to even things out. I fear the HWWTM would abandon ship if we brought home another dog.

And because this is a knitting blog . . .

I made a hat for my step-dad. He called the other night and asked for a hat to wear while he walks in the morning. So I whipped one up for him. It's a good thing I was quick, because he called this morning and asked if it was ready. It was, but it was still wet from blocking, so he came and picked it up anyway. He is not known for his patience. Anyone who knows him knows this.

The yarn is Noro Kabuto, which is wool, silk, cashmere and merino. It was made on a size 10 needle; I casted on 76 stitches and did a 2x2 rib. Viola!!

My February Yarntini arrived in the mail today. It is called "Dirty Martini" and is a beautiful mixture of blues and greens. Love it.

I'm trying to resist the urge to cast on another sock. I finished my first RSC sock and can't seem to make myself cast on the other. I want to start something new. I've also been working on my Scrappy Scarf and am almost finished with it, just another inch or so. I may go stash-diving and see if anything inspires me. Yarntini and Monkey pattern goes so well together.

Have a good weekend.

Bits and Pieces

2010-02-22T13:52:00.005-06:00

The title says it all - bits and pieces. First, proof that we actually went to the Superbowl, and more importantly, proof that my Featherweight Cardi actually went to the Superbowl. I'm sure everyone knows by now that THE SAINTS WON THE SUPERBOWL!!!!

There was an awesome halftime show featuring The Who.

The light show was unbelievable.

Now on to knitting news . . . the Girasole was finished last week and blocked. It will soon be gifted the the 10 lb. 3 oz baby boy that was born a couple of days ago. It turned out lovely, if I do say so myself. It measures about 40" across post-blocking - perfect size. I did leave out a few sections here and there due to size and yarn restraints. I'm very happy with it.

I also whipped up another cute little pair of booties, called Baby Moc-a-Sock. Don't you just love booties? They can be knitted in just a day or two. These are made in Lorna's Laces sportweight, Camouflage and Courage colorways. I used 3.0 mm needles for the orange part, and 2.75 mm for the camo part. Just adorable.

I started these last week. It's the January RSC kit. They're a fairly easy knit. I only have one more pattern repeat before the first one's finished, but I have been very distracted. . .

. . . . by this. I am addicted to this. I cannot put it down. It's a Scrappy Lengthwise Scarf done in 4 different Wollmeise colors - Zenzi and Vroni(formerly a Baktus, but ripped it because I wasn't happy with it), Natural and Feldmaus. It's only 2 simple rows repeated, but the color changes keep things interested. I'm already planning in my head my next color combinations.

Got 2 Wollmeise Gemischt bags in over the weekend. Dunkle Kirsche (on top, I think I have about a blanket's worth of that) and Grapes for Sheri. Love GFS.

Another shot of Grapes for Sheri - beautiful!!!

Gotta go pick up YS from school and get him to golf practice.

Have a good week.

Destash

2010-02-15T11:41:00.018-06:00

Rhabarber 2 WD twin - SOLD

Wasabi 100% merino - SOLD

Mistelzweig WD Merino (top) & WD twin (bottom)

Granatapfel WD twin - SOLD

Terra di Siena 100% merino - SOLD

Dornroschen WD twin (both) - BOTH SOLD

Gazpacho WD twin - SOLD

Blue Curacao WD twin - SOLD

All for sale for $35 each. Prefer to sell within US but will consider international. Leave comment or pm through ravelry if interested. Papal only please. Thanks.

Der Letze Versuch WD twin - SOLD

Admiral WD twin - SOLD

Ebenholz WD twin - SOLD

Happy Valentine's Day . . .and Happy Birthday, John

2010-02-14T10:14:00.004-06:00

We had a little snow Friday . . .

. . . crazy, I know, twice this winter already. It didn't stick this time, but the kids did get another day off of school.

Look who's visiting for a couple of days while his daddy goes to Mardi Gras. I'd rather puppy-sit than go to Mardi Gras.

I whipped up a little hat and booties for my friend's daughter, whose baby is due today. These are made from Lorna's Laces sportweight - hat on size 4 and booties on size 3 needles. They're having a boy, and dad is a hunter so I think they'll like it. This is the baby that the Girasole is for. I only have abou 200 stitches left to bind off - hope to get to that today.

I started my January STR sock club socks. While I'm not usually a toe-up girl, I liked this pattern better than the other, which was cuff down.

This is where this one is going to spend the rest of the day if he doesn't straighten his a** up. No really, he's sick, and I'd rather clean up his "sickness" in his cage than my floors and rugs. It's really my fault he's sick. I know he has the tummy of a newborn and shouldn't be fed anything except his dog food, but I can't resist giving him treats. Oh, well, live and learn. No more treats or anything for you, Beau Beau, not while you're here anyway.

BTW, it's OS's birthday today - Happy Birthday, John!!!! You are the coolest oldest son I have. I'm so glad you were born on V-Day, because it made you such a sweetheart. I LOVE YOU!!! COME GET YOUR DOG!!!

Grab Bags and Another FO

2010-02-10T16:41:00.005-06:00

Another pair of socks finished in The Sanguine Gryphon Bugga! Forester Moth colorway. This yarn knits up like a dream with 20% cashmere. Knit on 2.25 mm needles using the Paraphenalia pattern. These babies are for me!!!

Got some goodies in the mail a few days ago . . . Wollmeise grab bags . . .

This first one is a Blau (blue) bag. It includes a very dark Admiral and a Gewitterhimmel (with more teal in it than my others).

Next is a Gemischt/mixed 100% merino bag which includes a beautiful red Versuchskaninchen and a very different looking Gazpacho with brown in it.

And another Gemischt/mixed 80/20 twin bag which includes Wellensittichvogelfeder (love it!) and a gorgeous Moses.

And last but not least, a twin Kunterbunt bag which has . . . drumroll please . . . the much-coveted Magnolie dark and a beautiful purple and green (but not Krauterbeet) Versuch.

All very gorgeous!!!

I also received a sweet Valentine's kit from Simply Sock Yarn Co. that includes a cute bag from Silver Moon Studio, a skein of Sweet Georgia yarn in Tough Love Sock in Heartfelt colorway, and some cute stitchmarkers.

Won't this make a beautiful baby blanket? It's Sanguine Gryphon Skinny Bugga in Holly Blue Butterfly. I have a friend whose daughter (she has 3 daughters) is having (my friend's) 4th GRANDSON in June. Isn't that funny the way things work out? It's a beautiful baby blue and so soft. I plan to double it and probably use a US 8 needle. Maybe do a Big Bad Baby Blanket. I haven't made one of those in awhile. It's my "go-to" baby blanket pattern. LOL

Superbowl pics coming soon.

Have a great week.

Day Seven

2010-02-06T09:50:00.002-06:00

I did it. It's finished, and it fits!!! I'm so excited about it. It needs blocking, but I'm not sure how I'm going to block it. I don't want it to stretch too much. I'm going to steam it and see how it does. Will edit with photos later. YAY!!!!!!!!

Day Six

2010-02-05T10:09:00.003-06:00

Still no pics, but got lots done as it was a travel day. Finished second sleeve, ripped bind off on first sleeve and did ribbing instead, and finished ribbing at bottom of sweater. Also picked up stitches around front sides and neckline. Only have 3.5 inches of stockinette to do, bind off and block. I sure hope this sucker fits!!!

Day Five

2010-02-04T08:53:00.001-06:00

Travel day so no pics. Only got about 3/4 of second sleeve done. Busy packing and doing pre-travel stuff. More tomorrow.

Day Four

2010-02-03T13:07:00.002-06:00

I have a sleeve. It took several tries with different length needles. I started out with a 12", but it was really difficult to manipulate. A friend loaned me her 16", but it wasn't an Addi. Need I say more. Quick trip to Hobby Lobby proved fruitless. Went to a 24" and tried to do magic loop, not quite long enough, but made do with it.

I decided not to do ribbing on the end of the sleeve for time's sake, and just left a little rolled edge. It's a little wide, so I may go back and rip out the bind-off and do a couple of rows of ribbing anyway. So much for saving time.

Got some goodies in from The Sanguine Gryphon this week. They are Bugga! (did I mention it has cashmere?) in Northern Purple Gold Beetle and Love Bug.

I'm off to work on the other sleeve. It's obvious that I'm not going to finish before we leave tomorrow morning, but tomorrow is a travel day, which means a "knit day".

Day Three

2010-02-02T07:53:00.004-06:00

SOCK CLUB SPOILER ALERT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Do not go any further if you have not received your first Blue Moon sock club kit.

Here it is . . .

A great first kit including a skein of lightweight yarn, 2 patterns, a sheet of to/from cards and of course, Dyer's Notes.

The name of the yarn is Happy Go Lucky.

Oh, and I also got a second kit in the mail. A Charlie Brown Valentine's kit from Woolgirl.

A skein of yarn from Zen Yarn Garden in Cherry Mist colorway. . .

Cute little Snoopy bags, one large and one small . . .

And, as usual for Woolgirl kits, tons of goodies . . .

Last but not least, after three days of knitting, my Featherweight Cardigan. I have finished the body with the exception of 1-2 inches of 1x1 ribbing on the bottom. This is where I finished the first skein of yarn after the first row of ribbing.

I will pick up the stitches on the sleeve and knit those in the round on a 12" circular needle. It's a 3/4 length sleeve, and it's all stockinette, so it should go fairly quickly. Fingers crossed.

I may have overbought some Numma Numma at The Loopy Ewe update last night. Pics next week.

Off to wind that second skein of Wollmeise.

Day Two

2010-02-01T11:55:00.003-06:00

Presenting a progress picture after day 2 . . .

After a minor setback (dropped a stitch at the beginning of a row and couldn't pick it up and make it look good, so ripped back 3 rows of 300 stitches), I'm back on track. I've separated off the sleeves and knitted almost 4 inches of the 9 inches needed from underarm to waist.

Back to work . . .

Day One Progress

2010-01-31T09:59:00.003-06:00

Here's the fist day's progress on the Featherweight Cardi. I'm at about 7.5 inches. I believe.

Got some Wollmeise grab bags in the mail this week. These first 2 are Lila and Think Pink with colorways from top to bottom: Fleiderbusch, Der letze versuch, Tutu 2 and a very dark Dornroschen.

A Kunterbunt and a Gemischt: REGENBOGEN (better known on the Ravelry boards as clown barf), a gorgeous Ruby Thursday, Versuch I and Petit Poison Nr.5 dark.

Last, but not least Yarntini in Flirtini colorway . . . just in time for Valentine's Day.

Off to knit.......

Can It Be Done?

2010-01-30T15:21:00.002-06:00

I started a sweater this morning. No big deal, you say. Well, what if I told you I want to finish it by Wednesday? Yes, this Wednesday. In 5 days. And what if I told you it's fingering weight yarn on size 5 needle? Yes, it's Wollmeise in Olio Vergine colorway.

So this is how it all started. The HWWTM asked if I was ready to go to Miami Thursday? I said yes. He says well do you have enough Saints gear? I say no. He says you have to wear Saints attire everyday. I say ok, take stock of what I have and decide to knit a sweater. Makes sense to me.

So, here's the deal. I was going to post pictures everynight, but lighting will be a problem. So I will post progress pics every morning. I have a little over 4 inches knitted on it now. Back to work.

BTW, it's the Featherweight Cardigan.

Oh, and the Girasole has been put in timeout for the time being.

Wish me luck.

The Saints Are Comin'

2010-01-26T14:04:00.005-06:00

Presenting my 6th FO of the year - another pair of socks. I know, surprise! Everyone knows I love to knit socks and can usually turn out 2-3 pairs a month. I start other projects, and my interest fizzles out, and I go back to my socks. These are made from The Unique Sheep Verve yarn in Glee colorway. This yarn is alot of fun. It comes in 4 little mini skeins of coordinating colors. I wish I'd taken a pic of the skeins to show you, but didn't. The pattern is Gradience Sock knitted on 2.25 mm needles. I did make a few changes as usual. Also, it said you could do identical or fraternal - of course I chose fraternal (started one sock with skein 1, then 2, 3, 4, and started second sock with skein 4, then 3, 2, 1). I think they came out kinda funky. I don't know if anyone else would appreciate them, so I'll probably keep these for myself.

I finished my first Bugga! sock. This stuff knits up like a dream. Haven't casted on the second yet, maybe tonight during Biggest Loser.

Received this skein of Wollmeise Mitternacht WD (mitternacht means midnight in German) in a trade from Australia. You've gotta love Ravelry. You hook up with people all over the world. I had seen this colorway online and really wanted it. I love dark blues. I didn't realize it had the light blue and teal in it. It's very beautiful.

Guess where we were this past weekend?!!!! New Orleans!!! Guess where we'll be in 2 weeks?!!! That's right - Miami!!! The Saints are going to the Superbeauxl. It was an unbelievable game and an unbelievable weekend. Everyone is still floating around on air.

This picture was shot walking out of the Superdome right after the game. Everyone was taking pictures of the sign. The city was just electric.

In Girasole news, I have finished the charts, having left out a couple of repeats for size sake as well as for fear of running out of yarn. All I have left is the knitted on edge, which I plan to start tonight and hope to finish this week. If all goes well, I want to block it this weekend. Ok, now I've made a plan and set a goal. The mom-to-be that this is going to is due Valentine's weekend, so I really would like to get it to her asap. Also, her sister is pregnant and due in June, so as soon as I finish this, I'll have to get started on another. I don't think I'll do another Girasole, but I have found some very pretty circular shawl patterns that I think I'd like to try.

Have a great week.

Most Favorite Socks Ever

2010-01-22T09:38:00.007-06:00

I think these are my most favoritest socks ever. I love the yarn (Wollmeise), I love the pattern (Kawkawesque), well at least about 3/4 through the first sock I started to love the pattern, and I love the way they turned out. The colorway is Krauterbeet WD, knitted on size 2.25 mm needles. I will definitely be keeping these for myself. This is my 4th finished object this year - 2nd pair of socks.

This pattern goes so well with variegated yarn. I will definitely be knitting it again, not real soon though. And I will definitely use Wollmeise again.

I started a new sock soon after blocking the previous pair. I had never knitted a sock with Sanguine Gryphon's Bugga! so I was anxious to see what it would be like. And let me tell you, it is a dream to knit with. This pattern is Paraphenalia, and it is a 3x1 rib with a cable row about every 3-5 rows. Very easy, but looks very nice. This color is great; it's Forester Moth, a mixture of dark blue with a little teal thrown in. These are flying off the needles.

Remember my Numma Numma cashmere/silk yarn . . . well, I decided to do a February Lady Sweater with it. I've only done a few rows, and have not worked on it much. I pretty much wanted to get it on the needles, so it'll be ready to go when I finish the neverending Girasole.

No pics of the Girasole today. I really plan to finish it next week. I have one more chart and the knitted on edging to do. It's for a friend's grandbaby who is due Valentine's weekend, so I'd like to give it to them by the first of the month.

Going to New Orleans for the weekend to help pull the Saints in!!!

Watching a lot of tennis on tv . . . it's Australian Open time. Go Andy!!

Knitting, Football and the Beach

2010-01-16T13:48:00.002-06:00

TD and I are at the beach, and it is storming! Rain is blowing in sideways and the wind is blowing at 25-30 mph. We don't care, because we brought knitting with us. Well, TD actually brought books with her cause she's taking a class, but she also brought knitting.

The red flag is blowing . . .

. . . and the waves are rolling in. The only ones who don't like it are the doggies because they can't go out.

The HWWTM and my 3 sons are in New Orleans for the Saints game this afternoon. Did you hear? Deuce is back!!! Everyone is so excited! And nervous!

Some of the yarn I brought with me is my Numma Numma Special Edition that came in last week. It's cashmere and silk - yummy. I'm going to be swatching it later today. I'd like to make something drapey with it, like maybe a February Lady Sweater or a Featherweight Cardigan. I already have some Wollmeise set aside for the cardi, so I'm leaning toward the Feb. sweater. I brought some different size needles with me to see if I can get a good gauge. We'll see.

And, of course, my newest obsession . . . Sanguine Gryphon Bugga! It seems I'm drawn to anything with cashmere in it. I can't resist it. This first one is called Ocellat Jewel Beetle. Did I mention that she names her yarn colors after bugs?!?

This one is called Autumn Tiger Beetle. It's really hard to capture the true colors in these. They're just beautiful.

And, lastly, Forester Moth, which is a gorgeous mixture of blues.

Well, I'm off to do some swatching and watching football. Go Saints!!!

New Yarns for 2010

2010-01-11T11:42:00.004-06:00

I have another hat made from Koigu, held double through on size 6 needle. I casted on 86 stitches and did a 2 x 2 rib. I was making this for my 2 year old nephew, but ran out of yarn - 1 skein - and it didn't come out long enough. So this little hat is going to the baby who is already receiving the Girasole and Sweet Pea hat.

This little hat is made from I Love This Yarn in dark olive with mid green for contrast. I used a size 7 needle and casted on 76, I think. This one went to my 2 year old nephew for his birthday.

Kawkawesque update: one down, second one started. This pattern is a b*tch, but I got used to it, and the second one is going much more smoothly. It's Wollmeise in Krauterbeet WD colorway.

Some new yarns that came in the mail last week are Numma Numma Panna which is a new base. It is a soft, fluffy merino wool. The colors are Pink Berry and Inked.

This is a beautiful color called Metallic Fly from Sanguine Gryphon Bugga! It's a very beautiful, colorful color. Will make a great scarf that will go with lots of things.

And my December 2009 Woolgirl kit came in. Filled with lots of goodies - a skein of Yarn Love in Sugared Grapefruit color, a sock pattern, Agrodolce by yarnissima, and a hat and mitt pattern. There's also a great little pink buddy case, hot cocoa mix, 4 cute little chocolate flavored soaps, some postcards and a stitch marker. This is a great kit with tons of goodies.

I did, however, decide not to renew my subscription for Woolgirl kits next year. I just belonged to too many clubs last year and did not knit half of them. So I decided to at least take a break this year.

So, to keep a tally of FO's for this year, that makes 2 more hats, for a total of 3 hats and one pair of socks.

Have a great week.

First FO's for 2010

2010-01-07T13:47:00.002-06:00

Happy New Year!!!

Isn't it fitting that these socks are my first FO's for 2010? It felt like they took forever. Actually, the second one went much faster than the first, but that is always the case with me when I'm knitting a complicated pattern.

To reiterate: the yarn is Socks that Rock, Blackbird colorway; Raven Swirl pattern by Cookie A; needle size used 2.25 mm. I made the large size and used all of my skein plus some of TD's for the toes. These are going to our good friend, Percy. Hope they fit.

The second FO of 2010 is a Sweet Pea Hat by Susan B. Anderson, using Plymouth Encore DK in blue, and a random green yarn for the trim. Oh, and I used a size 4 needle and made the newborn size, casting on 56 stitches. These are for our good friends' daughter - the one I made the Girasole for. It was a fun, easy pattern. I just have a little trouble focusing when there are a bunch of little pieces - the pod and peas, etc.

My first project started in 2010 are a pair of Kawkawesque's by Yarnissima, using Wollmeise Krauterbeet (we're different) colorway on 2.25 mm needles. As all Yarnissima patterns go, this one is a tad complicated, but once you get the hang of it and get into a rhythm and understand what she is trying to do, it flows pretty well. Let's just say, the second one will definitely go faster than the first.

Another project started a couple of days ago is a little 2x2 rib hat for my little 2 year old nephew. His birthday party is Saturday. I'll probably finish this later today.

I'm gonna try to keep track of my FO's for 2010. I'm not sure if I can find a little gadget for the sideboard of the blog to keep a running tally, so for now, I'm just going to do it at the end of an entry with a FO.

That makes:

1 pair of socks

1 hat

Have a great day.

Holiday FO's

2009-12-30T10:00:00.006-06:00

Just wanted to show y'all a few finished objects . . . some of which are Christmas gifts, which haven't been given yet, and some are, well, holiday gifts that are gonna be given when they're finished.

Know any 3-handed monsters, cause I knitted 3 of these before I got it right. Actually, I ripped the first one (it only took a few hours to knit), cause it was huge. Don't remember how many I cast on initially, but the second time I casted on 36 stitches. If I'd only read the yarn label, I'd have seen that this yarn calls for a size 3-5 needle (and I was using a 2). It's a very heavy sportweight, and it's wonderful to work with. The yarn is NummaNumma TexasToasty in Sangria colorway. The pattern is Jasmine Fingerless Mitts (with many, many modifications) from Ravelry. Mostly I made the hand and thumb part longer. These were so easy and fun, made in 2 days, actually all 3 mitts were made in 2 days. These are going to my cousin.

This one is a little hat I whipped up out of Numma Numma TexasToasty sportweight in the "purple" color. (Sorry I'm too lazy to get up and look for the color name). It's for my precious little 2 year old great-nephew.

Now I'm gonna have to get up, cause I can't remember a thing about the yarn I used for these fingerless mitts for my Nanan. Be right back - talk amongst yourselves. Ok, I'm back. The yarn is sKnitches Big Tryst in Violin colorway. The pattern is Fine Cabled Mitt from Knitspot on size US 2 needles. This yarn has some cashmere in it, so they're so soft and squishy.

Oh, and the above-mentioned hat colorway is Empenadas de Fruta - like I said - purple.

Ok, just ignore this next picture, cause for some dumb reason, I downloaded it twice and didn't notice until later, and plus, I'm lazy.

I needed a simple sock for mindless knitting, so I casted on Gradience Sock in Unique Sheep's Verve sock yarn in Glee colorway. It's 4 little mini skeins that you gradually knit together to make these awesome color changes. I just loved it and couldn't put it down. I think I'm going to do the second sock in reverse colors. I'll probably keep these for me, cause they're so fun.

Save me from myself . . . my STR sock club socks . . . one is done!!! It's really not that bad, except 1) the yarn is very dark, 2) I'm doing the large size (72 sts), and 3) I'm making a size 13 for a male friend. I divided my yarn in half and knitted the foot until I ran out of yarn, then borrowed enough from TD's skein to do the toe. I'm gonna cast on the second one today, really. Really.

And TD finished her Girasole yesterday, or maybe day before yesterday. Here it is unblocked.

And here it is blocked, measuring a grand total of 44 inches across. There's a story behind this. I know, isn't there always a story. Anyway, she had 6 skeins of Numma Numma TexasToasty sportway in Ring of Fire colorway. She used a size 5 needle, at my recommendation. (Please note above where I said I didn't read the label on this yarn until later, and it is a heavy sportweight and on top of that TD knits very tight). Well, she ran out of yarn with just 31 stitches left to bind off, and guess who came through for us - NummaNumma - Allen - herself. She sent us a skein of yarn from the same dyelot so TD could finish her Girasole. Which, btw, she wanted blanket-size, not shawl size. It is now a lap blanket and she is contemplating making another one out of worsted weight on a much larger needle. Sorry, Sis. It's still beautiful though. Thanks, Allen, you rock!!!

Hope everyone had a Merry Christmas! Ours was great. It's always fun to have all 4 kids home for the holidays. Of course, there's always drama involved when your almost-grown children

(3 20-somethings) who live on their own come home and have to get along with each other, younger brother and parents. Well, you can only imagine. Add to the mix that we're Italian, and well, like I said, you can only imagine.

Hope everyone has a Happy, Safe. and Prosperous New Year!!

Drive By Post

2009-12-24T10:10:00.002-06:00

Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas!!

Very, very busy with family and Christmasy things!!!

Didn't even knit yesterday!! Not a stitch!!

Lots of new yarn to show and some FO's too!! Later!!

What's up with all of those !!! ?!?

More, More, More

2009-12-16T10:57:00.003-06:00

How do you like it? More Wollmeise. I seem to have a knack for hitting the Monday morning grab bag updates. This bag is called Think Pink. It contains the much sought after Tutu colorway (the one in the front). It is described as "Barbie Pink", and it definitely is. It is very slightly semi-solidy, if that makes sense. The one in the back is Dornroschen (means thorny rose).

This next one is a Gemischt bag of Dunkle Kirsche (black cherry) and a very dark Rhabarber (rhubarb).

Another Gemischt bag which contains Mistelzweig (mistletoe) and an almost all green with virtually no blue Skarabus (the colors of the Skarabus artefact). My camera is showing blue in it, but it really has none.

These next few skeins are trades and purchases from fellow Ravelers: first is Pfauenauge WD (peacock feather), love, love, love this one. Think it will become my next pair of socks in Kawkawesque.

And a beautiful Libelle WD (dragonfly).

A gorgeous Turkis & Karmeol WD(turquoise and cornelian), very bright and variegated.

A beautiful dark Dani.

At some point, I'm going to have to say "no" to the Wollmeise, just not now.

P.S. I just had a big birthday (5-0). I'm not happy, but I guess it's better than the alternative.

PPSS. I am totally stressed over the holidays, after I told myself I wasn't going to do that this year. Oh, well.

Have a great week.

More Numma Numma

2009-12-10T12:26:00.005-06:00

It's probably a good thing that Allen - Numma Numma - decided not to have an update this week, because I've barely muddled through the beautiful stuff I got in her last 2 updates.

This is some great TexasToasty sport in Jalapenos Frescos colorway - 200 yds per skein. It is destined to become a Girasole for my hearth room. I also got some of this for TD in the red - Rings of Fire, I believe - for a Girasole, which she's already started. I'll get a picture for you when she comes home for Christmas.

More Texas Toasty sport in Sangria and Empanadas de Fruta. The one skein to the left there was made into a fingerless mitt yesterday, then frogged because it was waaaay too big. It will be reborn later today.

And . . . the coveted Ned's Ruby Trout in extra dark and medium in The Usual. This is so pretty with flecks of red. Will be great with jeans.

The Special is a laceweight with 700 yds per skein. Colors are Side Salad and Hari Omelette.

Last, but not least, Doppio It's Complicated. The colors in this are unbelievable. I can't wait to knit with it. It's so squishy with 20% cashmere.

The current bane of my existence - sorry, I mean wip - November Socks That Rock club kit. It doesn't help that it's dark, and I'm making the large size and am just gonna knit till I run out of yarn, and have I already said that it's dark. They're going to be for a family friend - a man - and I think he'll love them if I ever finish them. The HWWTM thinks he probably wears a size 12 or 13. Pray for me.

And my beautiful Girasole . . . it's coming along so pretty. It has just a hint of blue in it. It's for a very good friend's daughter who is expecting in February. I am on chart D, which doubles the stitches at the end of the chart to 640 stitches. Please pray some more. Thanks.

And to help get us into the Christmas spirit here in southeast Louisiana, we had a little dusting of snow last week. Nothing like last year, but it's always fun to get at least a little.

The weather has been so yucky this week, and I'm so sick of being cooped up in the house, I'm actually cooking, and baking (muffins from scratch), and - brace yourself - I even cleaned out my closet today.

Probably gonna knit the rest of the day . . .

Almost forgot - GO SAINTS!!!

Grab Bags!!!

2009-12-04T15:12:00.002-06:00

My Wollmeise "We're Different" grab bags came today . . . Lovely!!!

Herbstfarben / autumn colors - L to R: Ebenholz (ebony), Feldmauschen (field mouse), Granatapfel (pomegranate), Spice Market and Kurbis (pumpkin).

Turkis / teal - Die Auster (the oyster), Neptun (neptune), Amazonas (the amazon), Minze (mint) and Skarabus (the colors of Scarab Artefact).

Gemischt / mixed harmonic shades - Versuchskaninchen (guinea pig - this usually means that Clauia is possibly creating a new color, and these are the trials), Blue Curacao (the liquer), Feldmaus (field mouse), Dani, and Ebenholz (ebony).

Kunterbunt / mixed colorways, not matching - Versuch, Red Hot Chili, Vergissmeinnicht (forget me not), Versuch (possibly the new Christmas colorway Oh, Tannenbaum), and Versuch (looks like the other Christmas colorway Zimtapfel, only darker).

A couple of skeins from Ravelry swaps - Barist"o" and Mon Cheri. All of my yarn today is 100% Merino Superwash.

Have a great weekend. I am in Wollmeise heaven.