IronicKnitter

Mooooooommmmmm I'm watching TV!

2009-04-25T16:06:00.001-05:00

Mooooooommmmmm I'm watching TV!
Originally uploaded by Knitter Kim

I had the iPod in the iHome on in the kitchen while making dinner tonight. Apparently, my son doesn't want to hear Yaz while watching his movie, so he tried to block the sound by building this barricade.

Note the cat's confusion as to why his scratcher is in this weird place.

A new top...not modeled by Dominic

2009-04-25T16:02:00.001-05:00

A new top...not modeled by Dominic
Originally uploaded by Knitter Kim

My sweet son agreed to model this girly top as long as I didn't show his face to anyone.

I like the way the top turned out and will probably make some more...the sizing is broad to accommodate a number of sizes.

2009-04-21T04:49:00.002-05:00

Honest to goodness, I need to take a check on anything serious.

Only silliness for a few days, please. My creative juices are lagging, which means that real life is dragging me down.

No offense to all who are suffering or hurting or looking for a shoulder to lean on. I'll be back and my liberal bleeding heart will re-commence the bleeding.

I need to bake something sweet, I need to read a girly novel that is not heart-breaking, I need to play with Play-Doh with my kids, I need to knit something fun and full of color.

So, if you are feeling happy or giddy, share with me, please!

2009-04-16T07:30:00.002-05:00

Hello, again. It's been a while. I'm finding that in today's technologically-addicted society (me being a member, I'm not acting innocent) I feel spread too thin if I go and write all over the place about my life. I realized today, though, that if I blogged, I could then post the blog on Facebook and Ravelry and the two places would be updated at the same time. Yes, I am a bit slow like that sometimes.

I am going to work early today because it is my daughter's 16th birthday today. Sigh.

She is in the school musical and has rehearsals every night, so the parents provide meals this week. Tonight is my night and I need to get home from work early to cook and bake cupcakes for the overworked-but-musically-talented-children.

She wasn't into a picture this morning when I left so I can't share her sixteen year gorgeousness with you all, but trust me, she's gorgeous inside and out.

Happy Birthday, dear firstborn. I am sorry I had to try out all the parenting techniques out you first.

Biz wise, I've been busy designing a new sock pattern. It is called "Textures Swirl" because it is a spin-off of the design in my "Textures" hat and scarf pattern. Original-no? It's quite fun to knit and perfect for those fingering weight yarns you have in your stash. I don't have it up in my stores yet, but it is available as a kit with some gorgeous yarn and a beautiful bag and other goodies at Necessitae right now. Soon, I'll get it up and will try to get my addled brain to remember to post when I list it.

Have a beautiful day, here it is sunny and gorgeous.

Check out Necessitae tomorrow!

2008-09-14T15:26:00.001-05:00

EtchCollab
Originally uploaded by Knitter Kim

I'm offering a collaboration for auction tomorrow at Necessitae.com.

The talented Ula at www.TheCherubsCloset.com and I are having fun wit Etch-a-Sketch. You won't want to miss it--yummy yarn and an original and beautiful lap tee.

Also, Necessitae is celebrating it's birthday by raising money for a very deserving charity, The Sukuli Project.

http://sukuliproject.org/default.html

Please stop by and see if you can find something you might like to purchase. All of the charity money goes directly to The Sukuli Project.

2008-08-30T20:12:00.002-05:00

I know I've mentioned in a previous post how much I enjoy the show Weeds.

Well, I think a large part of the attraction is the kicking soundtrack. The music is always different, appropriate and usually something I haven't heard before.

One of the songs in Season 3 was "Chariot" from a band called Page France. (Now defunct, WAAAH.) This song is so compelling, I had to locate it on iTunes and download it immediately. I think I'll be back to just buy all of their albums when I have some extra cash. I've listened to "Chariot" approximately 20 times tonight and don't want to stop.

Here's a video someone published on You Tube with this track:

http://www.last.fm/music/Page+France/+videos/+1--mtHyuNTaj0

Enjoy!

2008-08-15T06:01:00.004-05:00

I'm obviously still in need of that PR person. I'm so sorry to have disappeared. The summer has been a big blur of activity and I am afraid the blog is first to go.

I have a lot to catch up on with you, though!

First, I have a new scarf and hat pattern up for sale. This is the first one I've published myself, so the learning curve was a little steep, but well worth it, I think.

There are several places you can buy Textures, but the easiest is probably at my cart HERE.

Also, you can find it at Ravelry and Etsy.

The feedback so far is great, and I love seeing all of the gorgeous hand dyed yarns knit up!

I have another new scarf design making it's debut tonight--Ginkgo goes live at 9ET at Necessitae tonight. I'm starting to prepare items that are perfect for holiday gifts, so keep an eye out. :)

Ginkgo is a fun design that I carried with me for a few months until I had the time to work it out in yarn. I'm tickled with the way it has turned out and I may publish this pattern as well.

I tell you, I had to love the "vision" to keep knitting those little ginkgo leaves.

On the personal front, the countdown is on until the first day of school. It doesn't seem to give me enough time to get all of the required supplies and clothes and forms filled out, and books purchased, and getting us all acclimated to getting up earlier.

We just returned from a wonderful vacation in Ithaca, NY. It was a fabulous trip, but I will have to write more on that next time.

Have a wonderful day!

2008-06-29T10:36:00.002-05:00

Necessitae is moving to Hyena Cart! Our first stocking is tomorrow the 30th at 9 PM Eastern time.

To celebrate, we're raising some money to benefit the ASPCA. Many of us at Necessitae have furry friends we've adopted and so this is a charity near and dear to our hearts.

I've created a "Calico" colorway and the proceeds will be donated to the ASPCA.

I've also worked on a collaboration with the fabulous Ula of The Cherub's Closet. It's a bright and summery set that sure would look cute on your little sunshine!

Also stocking is the newest installment of my Project Runway series of colorways--Austin Scarlett!

Please come and check it out!

2008-06-29T10:23:00.002-05:00

There are the humbling moments in our lives that make us stop and think about who we are, what we are doing, where we are going. Yesterday was one of those moments.

My sweet great-Grandma Katie (Actually she's my step-great-Grandma but my stepmother's family has always been so wonderful to me that I dropped the step's a long time ago.) passed away early this year. Yesterday was her memorial service. She was 106 years old and lived her whole life as a kind, generous, positive ray of light. She was fascinating and to think of the things she lived through...

WWI, WWII, Korean War, Vietnam, the Gulf War, the Iraq War.
Theodore Roosevelt was President when she was born.
The first car.
The roaring twenties.
The Great Depression.

And so much more. It was wonderful to listen to her family members stand and describe what she meant to them. Her revered described her as a perfect example of someone who doesn't grow older and bitter. She relished each day.

Thank you, Grandma Katie. It was privilege to have known you.

2008-06-16T20:56:00.002-05:00

Vacation is here--with a vengeance!

The weather has been so kooky here. I can't recall getting this much rain in quite a long time. Maybe back in 1993 when the Mississippi flooded. Anyway, the rain and the tornado warnings have been in abundance lately, but I did manage to use my new clothesline on Saturday! Hubby was kind enough to install a new one for me after the dog broke my last one. The weather was perfect for hanging clothes on the line--sunny, warm and breezy. Four loads dried in record time.

On the work front, I have been slower than usual because the kiddos keep me running, running until I'm so tired at night I can't stay up and work. I have managed to get some things finished lately, though.

I have some "Chloe" sock yarn instock at Necessitae. I also stocked some "Hot Mango" on 2 ply targhee, but that has sold already.

I finished this zipped jacket the other day. The yarn is Full Belly Farm dyed by Morwenna at Mosaic Moon in her Blue Goblin colorway. It's such an amazing colorway, I loved knitting this up.

Up next are two skeins of self-striping cashmere/merino blend sock yarn. Are you drooling yet? This is for a charity event called True Colors. Dyers are given a set of colors to dye and we each create an item in that colorway and the proceeds are donated to a charity of our choice. It's such an amazing idea and I am thrilled to be participating!

The charity event starts on June 19th, my auction is HERE. There are other lovely yarns and other dyed items, so please go and see if you can find something to bid on.

Next up, I have a dress I knit that is going up for auction tomorrow. The talented Christy over at Fussybutt has created a pair of sweet pink wool bloomers to match this dress. Here's the AUCTION LINK. Go bid! :)

Lastly, I leave you with a picture of some goodies I found waiting in the garden during a brief respite from the rain. Garlic scapes!!! We have them once a year and are they ever a treat.

Take care, and stay dry, please!

Borscht!

2008-05-04T14:21:00.001-05:00

Borscht
Originally uploaded by Knitter Kim

I've been having fun this weekend, playing with some recipes I've never tried before. Yesterday, I made a Ragu Bolognese which was quite rich and delicious on some farfalle pasta. It was served with Italian bread and a salad and for dessert, an apple pie made completely from scratch topped with real whipped cream. We all staggered away from the table too full to even discuss the meal properly.

Today, I left Italy and went to Russia. I made borscht which is a tantalizing mix of flavors. Meaty from the beef, earthy from the beets, a little tangy from the apples and the vinegar, and sweet, too. Top the bowl with a dollop of sour cream and it's a complete meal. Very filling and satisfying and the kids enjoyed calling it "vampire soup" due to the really lovely red hue from the roasted beets.

2008-04-30T14:22:00.002-05:00

Swap Bag
Originally uploaded by Knitter Kim

Over at Wooly Wonder forums, some of us are doing a sock kit swap! Each participant created a sock project bag, and include goodies and yarn for a pair of socks. Here's my contribution, it went out today to my swapee. The yarn is cashmere/merino and I created the colorway for the recipient. Also included is a set of brittany dpns, a chibi, and some beautiful lampwork stitch markers made by my friend Sue at Pink Lemonade.

2008-04-28T23:52:00.003-05:00

Who Said I Could Leave Things Alone?

Not I.

I decided to add a little bit to the orange and green shrug.

There was something holding me back from stocking it at my store. I decided to pick it up today and add flowers. I love how it turned out!

2008-04-09T12:18:00.002-05:00

I forget I have an Etsy shop set up. I decided to spiff it up a little bit and stock some new BFL sock yarn there. Two are continuations on my Project Runway series:

CHRISTIAN:

SANTINO:

Both are at my Etsy store along with a few other colorways:

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5169850

Thanks for looking!

Vintage Garden Shrug

2008-04-02T19:31:00.001-05:00

shrugfront
Originally uploaded by Knitter Kim

It's been a bit of a shrug mania here. This one is knit from BFL I kettle dyed shades of orange and green. Then, I knit it up and added the green trim. I love it!

2008-03-16T11:12:00.004-05:00

If you want some punk rock feet, come over to Necessitae.com! I have stocked a skein of my yummy BFL superwash sock yarn in my "Hard Heart" colorway.

2008-03-12T18:54:00.003-05:00

I am aware that my level of obsession with Project Runway has reached epic, unhealthy proportions, but I decided to use that obsession to make something beautiful. Tonight at my store, I'm debuting the first two colorways based on my favorite people from PR.

TIM GUNN:

HEIDI KLUM:

Both go on sale tonight along with two other new colorways,

SILVER BIRCH:

ESPRADILLE:

To get to the store, click here. Thank you!

2008-03-12T15:13:00.002-05:00

When your day starts out with this, it has to be a great day, doesn't it? What did I do without these in my life?

2008-03-08T21:43:00.003-06:00

So, the last month or so has been blurry.

These are the things that I know happened:

I managed to finish some knitting (pictures later)

I accrued late fees at the library (BAD girl--I work at a library!)

I killed a fish and a plant.

I blanked out on a wedding shower.

My brother and his wife had their first baby, a girl named Kennedi.

That's about all I can recall. The flu killed my memory, I swear it did.

Now, on to the knitting! A wonderful soap maker,Rachel, and I did a trade and I shipped off my part of the trade this week. It's a bodice knit in a cotton/wool blend yarn. I knit it so that she can attach a fabric skirt to it. It also contains an adjustable neckline so that her girlie can always have the "perfect" fit as she grows.

Bear with me as Flickr and I figure out this blogging thing together!

Next up is a shrug I designed on the fly (meaning I made ZERO notes in my notebook and will have to re-figure everything if I want to make another one--which I do, of course) . I especially love the sleeves and want to make another one so I can make those sleeves again. The yarn is 3 ply Merino I kettle dyed in my "Crest" colorway, which is one of my faves. This little number is being sent to a paper artist mama for her birthday celebration.

That's all for now, don't forget to change your clocks tonight!

2008-02-06T00:22:00.000-06:00

It's Sicksville here. First time in a long time that a bug has managed to hit all five family members of my family. So...this will be brief.
I finished a sweater to celebrate the Lantern Festival for Chinese New Year. I really love the way it turned out.

If you like it, it's up for grabs at www.Necessitae.com

Also, a sweet sweater for a customer:

I need to go to bed before I fall over from exhaustion, so more soon!

2008-01-15T09:56:00.000-06:00

I need a PR person.

I forgot to mention ages ago that I've had a pattern published! Remember the secret orange and brown project of a year ago? Well, here it is:

This is the High Top Hoodie in the new SnB book, "Son of a Stitch n Bitch" and the book has been out since Novemember. (Proof I need a PR person.) It's been exciting to see my work in print in a book that thousands of people buy! So, go get one and knit your man a hoodie in his favorite colors.

2008-01-15T09:14:00.000-06:00

A creative buzz has been happening around here. Many of my projects are in the middle and it's driving me nuts that they're not all done. SO many ideas, so little time.

However, in the middle of the drawing, the dyeing, the knitting, I've been doing some reading. I was off of work during the holidays and started one of the saddest books of my reading history. Mary by Janis Cooke Newman is a page turner which leaves you disheartened but compelled to move forward, hoping to find that the woman's life contained any joy. Not much is known about Mary Todd Lincoln, save for the usual references to her insanity. This book has been an eye opener for me and my husband and I plan a trip to Springfield, IL this summer with our children to visit the Abraham Lincoln Museum.

Here is a recent finished object! This is a cabled wrap made from Hempathy by Elsebeth Lavold. It was an interesting yarn to work with and it has a beautiful drape.

Oh! Also, some exciting news! I've been asked to become a part of Necessitae which is a huge privilege, considering they have several immensely talented knitters already. I will begin stocking there on the 30th of January.

MIL gift

2007-12-21T16:15:00.003-06:00

MIL gift
Originally uploaded by Knitter Kim

Deck the Halls

2007-12-21T16:15:00.001-06:00

IMG_2002.JPG
Originally uploaded by Knitter Kim

Our tree was easy to decorate and I admit I like having it around to keep me company at night as I knit on presents.

2007-12-21T16:10:00.001-06:00

Ballband Washcloths
Originally uploaded by Knitter Kim

IMG_2016.JPG
Originally uploaded by Knitter Kim

These were Teacher Gifts this year! The recipients seemed appreciative of the beautiful soaps and marveled at hand knit washcloths. :)

2007-11-03T20:51:00.000-05:00

And one more...

One of my favorite musicians:

chaiglovesandearwarmer.JPG

2007-11-03T20:31:00.001-05:00

chaiglovesandearwarmer.JPG
Originally uploaded by Knitter Kim

A few more FO's--warm earwarmer and fingerless mitts from cozy 2 ply targhee in Morwenna's "Chai Latte" colorway--www.Mosaicmoonyarnstore.com

2007-11-03T20:20:00.000-05:00

Tonight, it's fun on YouTube. It seems I'm always the last person to get into the cool things on the net. I have been having a TON of fun tonight looking up videos from some of my favorite bands from the 80's and 90's. One of my finds--Camouflage! Anyone else remember this German techno band?

BUNNIES!

2007-10-20T11:41:00.001-05:00

BUNNIES!.JPG
Originally uploaded by Knitter Kim

A preview of a new design! It's almost ready to go to an expecting mama :)

Widdershins in Maple Leaf

2007-10-20T11:39:00.001-05:00

Widdershins in Maple Leaf
Originally uploaded by Knitter Kim

I like to make shorter socks, so the ribbing at the top is only a couple of inches or so.

Close up of sleeves

2007-10-20T11:38:00.001-05:00

IMG_1973.JPG
Originally uploaded by Knitter Kim

Just another picture. Figuring out how to use Flickr and Blogger together.

2007-10-20T11:36:00.001-05:00

Simple To Wear Sweater
Originally uploaded by Knitter Kim

This is a quickie design, I wanted an easy-to-wear sweater that could be casual enough to wear with jeans or cords and wouldn't require a lot of fussing. Just slip it on and go!

It's made from Purewool single ply merino that I dyed in what I call my "Maple Leaf" colorway. Scoop neck so it's flattering on top. A little ribbing under the bust to keep it from looking like a potato sack, and some slight flaring at the sleeves. I ended the bottom hem and sleeves with picot cast off and did ribbing around the neckline.

I wore it yesterday and love it. It's super, super soft so no layering required! It's perfect for next-to-skin wearing. Last night, I also finished a pair of Widdershins in the same colorway. The yarn for the socks dyed up darker than the merino did, even though I used the same dye lot. I still love them and the idea that I can wear matching socks and sweater!

2007-05-30T13:15:00.000-05:00

Baby Mary Janes.

Could there be anything sweeter? I made these using a pattern from ShesCrafty using worsted weight yarn I had dyed. I didn't have the recommended fingering weight yarn in colors that I liked, so I felted them after knitting and love the way they turned out. The little iridescent glass buttons are perfect, I think. Baby Grace received her new Mary Janes today and appeared to like them very much.

2007-05-29T23:14:00.000-05:00

Spring is busy around here. I spend hours every day out of doors pulling weeds and fussing over my plants. It's more fun than it sounds, really! Things are going pretty well in the gardening department except a wily mama bunny made a nest in the mulch that covers my garlic bed. I wondered how my lettuce and strawberries were getting eaten! I lost a whole tomato plant before the mystery was solved. The babies are gone now, so I hope they've moved onto greener pastures.
I've been doing some dyeing lately. Playing with colors, to see what I like. I have no names for these colorways yet, but what do you think?

Also, work has been ongoing for the art fair I mentioned previously. Entered for the jury's consideration:

Organic merino dyed gray with light lavender yarn violets.

Also, some scarves and a hat knit from beautiful hand-painted yarn.

My friend Morwenna at Mosaic Moon dyed these lovely colorways--"Malayan Orchid" and "Guinevere" on Targhee and Blue Faced Leicester.

It will be a month of nail-biting to hear if I've been accepted as a vendor. Then, if I am, only two months to prepare the merchandise! I've been doing some knitting as I wait in an effort to be optimistic.

2007-05-03T11:23:00.000-05:00

A short rant

Seriously. What is up with the freaking stickers on fresh fruit? How much time is wasted placing these stickers ON the fruit and then trying to remove them from the fruit?
I remember when I was little and the checkers at the grocery store knew all of the produce codes by heart. When was it decided that the checkers couldn't memorize the codes any longer?

2007-04-30T15:09:00.000-05:00

Baby Knitting

I'm always so impressed with those knitters who find out a friend is pregnant and know immediately what they want to make for the new baby. I seem to have a hard time deciding and wait until the last minute to start/finish items. My friend Marnierecently had a gorgeous baby and when I opened the most recent Vogue Knits magazine, I saw the perfect gift--the Baby Surplice sweater by Elizabeth Z.

It's a fun and baffling knit until you get to the very end, when a la Elizabeth Z, it all makes sense.

I decided to do anchored buttons so that Marnie may move the buttons easily for perfect adjustability.

The yarn is farm yarn from Theresa at LTK dyed in her "Guinness" colorway. The colors aren't totally boy/girl, which I love.

I saw my girlfriend Erica today, and she's going to give birth to her second child on Thursday. It's a girl, and for some reason, I cannot settle on a project for her. I need some imspiration and fast!

2007-04-26T08:15:00.000-05:00

Spring is here!!!!

It's been a flurry of birthdays and spring fever over here. And knitting, yes, some knitting. This is going to be a big catch up post, so bear with me as I overwhelm you with photos.

First, it was Anthony's 7th birthday on Easter. He was gifted a new bike, one where he doesn't look like a circus clown while riding it because of knees up to his ears. He asked for dinner at Red Lobster and so it was--crab legs for the birthday boy!
He also had a violin recital at school. Here's my only, not so great, picture:

Next, it was Paige's 14th birthday. She asked for a local fast food joint for her birthday dinner, so we did that. Here she is blowing out her birthday candles with DOminic ready to help as needed:

Dominic has been spending all non-rainy days out of doors. I've been trying to teach him to use the pedal car, but he much prefers being pushed around in it over working to get it to move.

Me? I've been starting seeds:

Those are San Marzano sauce tomaotes and a new cherry variety called "TomatoBerry". Both seeds are from Johnny's Seedsmy very favorite seed source ever. They specialize in high quality seeds with a lot of organic varieties and a lot of variety in general! The germination rate is always very high and if you want to grow long Chinese beans, they have that. This year, we have the German Red Top garlic in our garden, coming up nicely. We plant it in the fall. I am also trying a new pole bean, to maximize garden space. Also new are 60 hills of potatoes (from Johnny's as well, but a lot of varieties sold out fast.). I'm hoping to avoid buying supermarket potatoes this year! And garlic! And tomatoes! And lettuce! And cucumbers for pickling and eating. And zucchini. Asparagus. Strawberries. I think that might be it this year.

OK, now the knitting. It's been hard to find adequate time lately. A few rain-showery days have allowed me to spend time indoors, dyeing yarn, playing with some stitch patterns, trying to decide what to work on next. I had a custom order for a customer, which was a cotton top and skirt. I dyed the yarns and knit the order up:

to
I've also been working on some special items for an art fair. I need to submit 4 photos of my work with the application because it's a juried fair. So, it's been dyeing, swatching, winding, knitting, embellishing central over here. It's a rainy day today, so I'll try for a few photos tomorrow. So far, I have a scarf and a tunic and beret almost done.

2007-03-16T13:30:00.000-05:00

I'm a hooker now. Kinda. Sorta.

I decided I had to make more room in my stash for more stash and the bulk of the mess was a ton of tiny little odds and ends. And not all of them nicely coordinated so that I could use them to make a striped sweater. So, my goal is to make the world's ugliest afghan in a crochet ripple pattern so that I can use up these bits and add to the afghan whenever I feel like it.

It took me a while to get the hang of the pattern and it's a basic pattern, folks. I still don't think I have it 100% right but the beauty of it is that I don't care if it's perfect or not!! I love it! It's long enough to cover the length of the sofa, so hopefully one day, the whole fam can sit underneath it while we watch a movie together.

2007-03-15T09:12:00.000-05:00

The sleeves are done:

That purple thing hanging down from the jacket is some grosgrain ribbon that I'm going to cover the seams with. The two purples are so pretty against each other. I also made some matching leg warmers and found another ball of this yarn under the sofa (what ? your yarn doesn't travel around your house?) and am toying with the idea of a bag.

It was my birthday this week and my husband's last week. We took a weekend trip to Chicago to celebrate. Our splurge was on one of the best meals I've ever eaten in my life at Le Lanwhich is a French-Vietnamese restaurant. It's not traditional but delicious and BEAUTIFUL food? Yes. Reservations are strongly recommended. So are the Stuffed Tiger Prawns. It was so warm that evening, we were able to walk back to our hotel. I love walking in Chicago at night.

Knitting wise, I've been wandering around without any serious projects on the needles. I'm finishing a sock from Regia yarn that I bought on sale (60% off!) at one of my LYS. I'm waiting for the muse to hit me over the head. I've had several ideas of ideas kind of float through, but nothing that I have.to.make.

For that reason, I've been searching for someone's design to be compelling enough so that I will want to make it for myself. Any suggestions?

2007-03-02T08:51:00.000-06:00

Happy Birthday, dear Hubby!!

Today is blustery and snowy and icky. And it's a good thing, because Dominic and I will be staying in today and baking this the most delicious carrot cake recipe I've ever tried. You grind the carrots and then marinade them in brown sugar so they get all juicy and delicious. The cake is moist, and amazingly big.

My MIL outfoxed me yet again. I'm not sure how she does it, but she's damn good at it. I called her up and invited her and her husband to meet Hubby and I tonight for a drink to celebrate his birthday. She agreed and said NOTHING to me about dinner at her house on Sunday. When hubby called his sister to ask her to meet us tonight, he found out his mom had been planning a birthday dinner at her house on Sunday. Damn. There I go again, getting burned for being nice. To normal people, this wouldn't seem so big, but I don't like my in-laws and spending time with them twice in one weekend is too much.

Catherine has suggested 3/4 sleeves for the jacket. That's a good idea, Catherine. I'm going to try to screw up my courage today and finish some sleeves.

2007-03-01T12:07:00.000-06:00

To sleeve or not to sleeve.

I can't decide. I keep picking this up, start some sleeves and then putting it back down.

I think I'll make some matching pants and see how I feel after that. This is some lovely vintage Shetland wool yarn I picked up at an estate sale. I am in love with the color--a heather pink/gray and wish I had much more of this yarn to play with.

The Valentine's sweater for Dh is done, but in a holding pattern until he decides if he likes the collar or not--now the stinker is leaning towards a V-neck. If he changes his mind and wants the V-Neck, I may need to pull out the scissors and so some cutting rather than ripping back.

I've been reading Elizabeth Zimmermann and she'll give me the courage if necessary.

2007-02-15T22:34:00.000-06:00

The Valentine's Sweater

...Is not done. Chances are good I could complete it tonight. I chugged some coffee so I could stay awake tonight and have some "alone time". I need to decompress from a few very busy days. Plus, Anthony is off of school tomorrow, so I get to (hopefully!!) sleep in until 7:00 or 7:30. His class at school today performed a wonderful play and my little man had quite the role! His expression of emotion was pretty excellent for a six year old. I think he could be a Jim Carrey in the making.

Valentine's evening was pretty good. The hubby and I hit the mall for a bit and I found some bargains that made me happy! (New shoes, skirt and top!) I have decided I don't wear enough skirts. Then, we went to see Music and Lyrics

No, Dh didn't want to go, but he ended up enjoying himself and I loved it! Both Hugh Grant and Drew Barrymore were great in this part satire/part romantic comedy.

I'm off to knit and snuggle under a down throw while watching a video.

2007-02-12T11:34:00.000-06:00

The best part of coming home is knowing that your knitting is waiting for you. I've been working on a sweater for my husband---a Valentine's gift, you know. Of course, I waited until last Thursday to decide that I needed to make him said sweater. It's lovely Tahki Donegal Tweed yarn in the Oatmeal colorway. I like the little blue flecks that appear every once in a while.

The sweater itself is a basic raglan with some ribbing at the sides for a nice fit. He's approved the project and design so far and even likes the yarn, which is a minor miracle. So far, I have 1 sleeve and the body up to the armholes done. So, chances are good for an on-time gift!

Part of my Saturdays during the cold months are to curl up on the sofa when the youngest is napping and knit and watch the line-up of cooking shows on PBS. My Anthony was snuggled up with me this weekend watching and learning and insisted we try a chocolate chip meringue recipe immediately. It was very simple to make and the cookies were quite delicious!

Here's the recipe:

3 eggwhites, room temperature
1/4 tsp. cream of tartar
1/4 tsp. vanilla
1 cup of sugar
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Beat the egg whites with the cream of tartar and vanilla at high speed until soft peak stage. Then, gradually add the sugar while beating. Continue beating until the meringue is at the stiff peak stage. By hand, fold in the chocolate chips.

Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper and drop cookies by rounded spoonfuls onto the sheets. Bake at 250 for 1.5 hours until lightly golden brown and firm in the middle. Cool and store in airtight container.

2007-02-07T08:48:00.000-06:00

Hearing about the class-action sexual discrimination lawsuit against Wal-Mart this morning gave me tingles. For ages, I'd been hearing about how unfairly Wal-Mart treats their female employees and finally, someone is trying to do something to hurt them where it really hurts--the pocketbook.

I've stopped shopping at Wal-Mart because of their business practices. Pure and simple. I know of many others who have done the same--I wonder how many more will decide to direct their dollars elsewhere now that this lawsuit will be in the news?

If you'd like to read about it, click here

2007-02-06T10:27:00.000-06:00

Just a little more knitting content:

A cotton sunsuit I just finished with little fishy buttons to close. I love it!

2007-02-06T10:23:00.000-06:00

Dear Bravo:

Please fix Top Designer right this instant. It made me feel really sad to watch it. It's that bad. Please go to Project Top Design and read their critiques carefully because they are DEAD ON with what is wrong with this show.

Thank you.

2007-02-05T10:23:00.000-06:00

Where Have I Been?

Well, for a while there, it seemed like anytime I had the time or inclination to blog, Blogger was down. So then it started to feel like it was pre-destined for me not to blog.

Anyway, it's been kind of quiet here, except I just finished a large-ish custom order. I dyed the merino yarn for the twisty scarves and used Manos del Uruguay for the Long and Skinny scarf and the felted mitts:

I've also been working on some other knitting for the store:

Now, I'm trying to screw up the courage to go down into my COLD basement and rinse off the cotton yarn I dyed yesterday. Have I told you we have a high temperature of 3 degrees today? Why did I choose the coldest days of winter to dye cotton yarn? Alright, it was mostly a diversionary tactic, trying to avoid buying sock yarn.

In the midst of the knitting and dyeing, I was watching Top Chef season 2. What a mess that show is. Seriously, I hated every single contestant except Michael. The best part was the guest judges. Ted Allen was a hoot and Eric Ripert holds a special place in my heart. Top Chef producers--take note--your viewers want some quality next season!

2006-12-28T09:34:00.000-06:00

Happy Holidays!! A few days late...

Our actual Christmas Day was great. Looooooong but great. Anthony has reached the full understanding of presents and Santa and all that jazz and was up at 5:30 on Christmas Day. I was still in bed and heard him go downstairs to check everything out and then upstairs to try to wake his brother up, downstairs again, upstairs again...it was kinda funny.

All the gifts were enjoyed and appreciated.

Paige opening her iPod with the help of Cosmo:

Anthony opening his one of many gifts:

Dominic playing with his new train table:

My dear, darling DH gave me a knitting journal and a gift certificate to the LYS. I went yesterday to peruse all of the beautiful yarns and came home with some of the new corn yarn "Amaizing" from SouthWest Trading Company. It's a really soft tube yarn. The color I bought is "Biscotti" and it kind of made me feel I was knitting with pantyhose. I have a dress design in mind and have been looking for the right yarn. This may be it, doubled up. Knitted single on 7's, it makes a pretty light-weight fabric.

I also came home with three skeins of Patagonia Nature Cotton in a pretty orange/yellow/pink colorway:

Knitting wise, the only Christmas knitting I managed was a Swell hatfor my grandfather.

and a set of felted coaster for my son's school secretary. I used up some of the jillions of Manos del Uruguay scraps for them so the edges weren't perfect but they still looked cute. (Sorry, I can't seem to find my picture right now.)

My kids are currently at Grandma and Grandpa's and I've been able to wrap up most of the work on the TOP SECRET PROJECT so that feels great! Plus, the hubby and I were able to do some shopping last night and had dinner out. What a treat! I slept in until 9 this morning and woke up only because I wanted to. I could get used to this....but I can't because the kids come home tomorrow. :)

2006-12-13T09:17:00.000-06:00

It's just not fair to look this good after a newborn. I know I couldn't find my red lipstick for weeks after delivery my babies! But she is, after all, the queen of all things perfect and chic. What a cutie pie Finn is! Congrats Laura!

On the knitting front--sleeve #2 is on the needles--oh, about half done. I'm trying (not very hard, apparently, since I am wasting time blogging) to finish it today so that the sweater can be blocked before seaming. If I can seam tomorrow, it's a vague possibility the sweater will be finished by my Dec. 15th deadline--but it's not looking good folks. I'm developing aches in my arms and wrists because the sweater is very heavy on the needles. I also have a HOLE in my right index finger from using the ultra-pointy Knitpicks Options needles. I love these needles, but OW does it hurt when you accidentally stab into that hole with that point. I wear Bandaids on it to protect it, but I occasionally forget to put a new one on after letting the finger breathe.

Whoever said that knitting is not a contact sport is so very very very wrong.

2006-12-10T11:36:00.000-06:00

Lazy Sunday

Last night, Paige had some friends over for a movie night. They watched "Ferris Bueller's Day Off". I worried considerably whether this would be glamorizing lying to your parents, stealing your dad's priceless vehicle, lying to school, faking a relative's death, driving into Chicago alone, and singing "Danke Schoen" on a float in a parade. My daughter assured me they were not taking notes or believing any of the stunts could be realistically pulled-off. Okey dokey. Just hoping parents don't call me.

I woke up out of a tentative sleep to see my 2 year old standing in the hall with his whole head and hands covered with blood. It was like seeing the scene from "Carrie" only a million times scarier because this was my kid and the source of the blood was unknown. After dashing into the bathroom and trying to keep calm while keeping him calm, I saw the blood was gushing from his nose and he had smeared it all around trying to get it off of his face. After cleaning him off and changing PJ's (both of us were by then covered in blood) I settled him into my bed so that I could finish cleaning up the bathroom and change his bedding. Then, I was overtaken by light-headedness accompanied by cold sweating and a churning stomach. I guess all of the adrenaline leaving my body took my steely reserve with it and I about passed out. I had to lie down next to my child and hold onto him for a while before attempting to stand up again.

So, today is going to be low-key. I'm ripping back a sleeve on my sweater because I realized that I measured incorrectly. Everyone is napping, so I'm going to put the "Gilmore Girls" in and sit back and knit.

2006-12-05T08:59:00.000-06:00

Well, finally some knitting content!

I finished this monkey last night while waiting for my daughter to get out of dance class. He was not too difficult to make, the worst part was all of the seaming of the parts. I used some of the wool from my estate sale find

and dyed the light brown trim using coffee because I didn't have the right color dye to make that tan color. Initially, when I finished the monkey, I looked at him and thought he needed something extra. He looked a little naked to me. So I added the scarf. And why not a little hat, too? I can easily see myself knitting entire wardrobes for the monkey and can finally understand why the dolls and teddy bears with interchangeable outfits are interesting. However, for me, the fun is actually creating the outfits, not just putting them on. Anyway, I hope Anthony loves him and wants to play with this little guy all of the time.

The pattern for this little guy is in Knitted Toys by Fiona McTague. The book has a few other cute patterns (the bunnies and the angel doll), but other than those patterns, I probably wouldn't make anything else from it.

In other knitting news, I've been working on a man's sweater in Brown Sheep Lamb's Pride yarn. I've never used this yarn before and it's quite pleasing to knit with. I like how soft it is, even with the mohair. It's been very long and quite dull because I had to knit 16 inches of stockinette stitch with a circumference of 42". However, last night, I finally hit the armholes and hopefully things will pick up from here. I cannot show you a picture just yet, since it's a sample for a pattern that will be published. I sure hope all of this suspense is worth it! LOL

The deadline for the sample and first draft is Jan. 2nd. So, MY goal is to have it done by the 15th of Dec. I dunno--we'll see. The best laid plans...wish me luck. I will really need it--and coffee--and good movies to watch while knitting.

Amelia has just published her newest pattern design for sale, and I think I might need to spend my Christmas gift money on yarn to make this lovely coat. It's actually quite similar to something I had in mind to design, so now that she's done the hard work for me, I think I'll go ahead and make one of them!

OK, I'm off to knit some more wooly mohair. (It's kind of drying my hands out, this yarn is.) Have a great day!

2006-12-01T13:10:00.000-06:00

It's a snow day today!!! Some huge amounts of snow dumped down and it's so quiet in the way things are with snow on the ground. You can't hear the slush being splattered by driving cars on the road yet.

The boys and I bundled up to enjoy the clean, white snowy fun. However, we encountered a few problems. The first--the snow came up the the baby's waist and he couldn't move. So, I started shoveling out paths for him to work through when I heard Anthony crying from behind the garage. He had attempted to climb the short hill there to sled down and got completely stuck in the deep snow there. When he stood up, his boot came off of his foot. Then, he lost the other boot while trying to make it to the house. By the time he made it inside, he was cold and crying. Not fun! Poor little guy. So we're waiting for DH to get home from work so he can start up the snow blower and make it easier for us to play.

On a brighter note! Welcome to the world little Trevor!! He is my new nephew and quite beautiful, with his little cleft chin and fuzzy head. My SIL is doing well after being induced for a pre-eclampsia scare. What a perfect Christmas gift! Here is the little man with Paige:

2006-11-19T22:28:00.000-06:00

It's been a bumpy ride

I've been trying to recover from that funky stomach bug that is apparently sweeping the nation. It's nasty and takes forever to feel normal again. You know how you feel so drawn--as if all of the blood were drained from your face permanently? I can hear you now--Uhhh...no.

Anyway, the daughter is in serious rehearsals for this year's Nutcracker performance. She is a clown in Act II--you know, they pop out of Mother Ginger's enormous skirt? So, we've been spending lots of time down there, volunteering and waiting and waiting and waiting...but it's all so worth it in the end because there is something so magical about seeing her dance on stage. Every year sees a higher level of expertise and it's thrilling to witness.

I'm busy making business type decisions, thinking of new goals I wish to reach and deadlines for those goals. I don't know about you, but these type of decisions make me extremely skittish. However, I know they are necessary to do because it puts me in the right mindset as a business owner. It reminds me I AM a business owner and solely responsible for the growth of that business. Therefore, it's been knitting and thinking, knitting and thinking. It's overall very positive and once things get rolling, I hope it's all I wish it to be.

I realized today that Thanksgiving is only 4 days away and I will be responsible for feeding 13 people. I go to pick up the organic, Amish grown turkey tomorrow. He or she will be treated to an apple cider brine a day before T-day. I still need everything else for the dinner and have been in denial about that. Hopefully, I'll snap out of that soon, huh?

If I am not here to blog before the big day, it's because I'm stuck in rehearsals, coaxing little cherubs to smile, and cleaning my house, and trying to remove all stains from my tablecloth, and removing small fingers from my pies.

2006-11-09T09:07:00.000-06:00

Don't Curse the Dad!

I thought that would get your attention. I'm sorry, I have had little to say and little time or energy to say what little I do have to say. **
Strike that--because one thing I promised myself was that I would NOT apologize to my BLOG for being busy.**

Today, I decided to bail out on pre-school "try out" or "practice" or whatever- you- want- to -call- it- day this morning because the thought of cutting one pseudo obligation out of my schedule this week was too tempting. (Don't get all huffy, it was basically a free- come- and- sing -and- play- in- our- pre-school to -see- if- you- like- it- enough- to- pay- a -lot- of- money- to- send- your- child- here- next- year. There is another one in December.)

So, we're home, the two-year old and I, for the first day this week. I get a few things done around the house so that it looks better. I had a scary realization the other night. I was walking through my kitchen door and noticed a bug on the trim on the wall. It was a box elder bug and where we live, they come out in the fall and try to live in your home. Anyway, I couldn't tell right away it was a box elder bug because attached to it was a huge giant dust bunny. It was at the same time amazing and embarrassing. I did consider running for my camera but decided that it would be wrong to document the fact that BUGS find it a little dusty on my wood floors.

My excuse is, of course, the fact that I'm busy. In fact, each week seems to get worse. I'm not sure how or why this is, but it is. It requires some looking at because I have not had ample knitting time to bring me down each night before bed. It's also trashing my creativity and I sorely need that to make it through this existence as a taxi-cab-driver mom.

I've had some exciting news this week--news that still has me poking it once in a while to make sure it's real. I am going to have a knitting design published in a BOOK!! Every once in a while, I remember it and go, "OH! Yeah! That is pretty cool." Then, I resume driving again. So, more details on that later.

And the reason for today's title? Dominic wanted a grapefruit and I only bought the grapefruit because my husband asked me to get some. I am not a grapefruit fan because I end up spending half a day in the kitchen preparing the grapefruits for the kids and prefer quick and dirty fruits like apples and bananas and oranges. Anyway, Dominic was asking for one during a time when I was particularly pre-occupied and I said with all the flair I could muster, "Curse the Dad and his grapefruits!!" Just as a joke, you know. However, Dominic is now marching around saying, "Curse the Dad!". I can't wait to hear the husband's reaction to that.

On a final note to this admittedly CRAZY blog entry, please go to the Fiber Arts Avengers store and see if there are any goodies to tempt you. Things are running until the 12th, so please go check it out!

2006-11-02T07:54:00.000-06:00

The Fiber Arts Avengers are at it AGAIN!!

First, let me say how much I adore being a part of this group of vibrant, strong ladies who KNOW that when you put your Fiber Arts powers to good use, amazing things can happen!! Kudos to my friend Pamela for brainstorming this fabulous way of raising money for charitable fund-raising.

Now, on to the serious matter. My friend Marnie has a sweet daughter who is friends with a little man named "The Professor". He was recently found to have a brain tumor. My mama heart quakes at the thought of something similar happening to any of my children. I know YOURS is doing so, too, right now. He came through the surgery to remove the tumor fine, but is recuperating for the long battle ahead to ensure he has plenty of years to play with his friends.

The Fiber Arts Avengers are currently in the process of fund-raising for The Professor's family because as you all know, it's expensive to have a loved one ill and meals on the road, traveling, bills, etc. add up quickly. And money is not what you want to have to worry about while your little one is fighting a brave fight. So please, go to www.FiberArtsAvengers.com and see what you can do to help. If you are a fiber artist, consider joining our cause! If you are a parent, check out the amazing wares that will be offered for auction or drawing--all proceeds are 100% to the Professor's family. If you want to donate directly, that information is available at the website, as well. Even if you could just take a few minutes a day and send positive, healing thoughts to Natty, that would be appreciated and FELT.

Here's the link to all of the goodies: http://hyenacart.com/Charity_raffles/

Thank you so much for reading!

2006-11-02T07:45:00.000-06:00

A hole, a hole!

Last week, Cari showed us a pretty sock that had developed a huge hole in the heel. Now it's my turn to mourn my first pair of hand-made socks. They are my Koigu Falling Leavessocks. Both of them developed holes in the ball-of-the-foot region at the same time. On one hand, I'm a little disturbed that the Koigu didn't wear that well. On the other hand, I like that the Koigu isn't long-lasting because well...handmade socks are special that way. Maybe if I gift a bunch of Koigu socks this Christmas, all of my friends will want to remain my friends because they will need their hand-knit wool sock fix.

2006-10-31T10:45:00.000-06:00

Halloween is hard on the parents.

True that, you think? I have three children. My eldest wanted to be a fairy. I managed to find some pretty wings and found some beautiful purple tulle to match and promised to make a tutu. (It's hard to find tutus for 13 yo's without paying an arm and a leg). Ay yi yi. She ended up re-sewing her tutu last night!! Poor thing.

The middle child is six and wanted to be a pirate. His entire costume came from things we had around the house. We had a leftover eye patch, hat and earring from a few years ago when the eldest was a piratess. I went to his school costume parade today and he was the ONLY one with a homemade costume. Can you believe it, folks?

The youngest has two costume choices: a hand-sewn dinosaur costume (I did not make it, it was a garage sale find.) or a giraffe. NEITHER one will he put on.

So, tell me--why do we celebrate this weird holiday which is nothing but a money and time suck? Every year, I TRY to be a good mom and get into it, but all that happens is I'm reminded of why it's such a ridiculous celebration.

2006-10-23T09:41:00.000-05:00

So what did you do this weekend??

Friday night, I went to see Marie Antoinette. Oh wow, did I ever love this film. I love how it wasn't all about the Revolution but about HER. I also love how they didn't have Kirsten Dunst talking in some hideous accent. I also love it that the actress Shirley Henderson (she portrays Moaning Myrtle in the Harry Potter films) is in this film because her distinctive voice is her biggest asset in that role. Of course, I love it that music by THE CURE is in this film in quite a shivery, emotional moment. I think I'll go see it again soon.
Saturday, my parents had their 23rd wedding anniversary and came over for dinner. My brother and his wife and daughter came over, too, and it was a lot of fun. Afterward, hubby and I took off to Barnes and Noble for a cup of coffee and quiet. In your town, is your B&N THE place to be on Sat. nights? Ours is always packed.
Sunday, I stayed in my jammies and ignored the Jehovah's Witnesses who were knocking on our door. Whispered things like, "I don't think she's going to answer." were cracking me up.
I knit most of the day with the Cascade 220 project. It's turning out pretty well, I think.

2006-10-20T15:15:00.000-05:00

Today, Dominic asked me to do a puzzle with him. This one happened to be 100 pieces and quite ugly--dinosaurs--but I said, "OK."

It started out fine until I realized the puzzle was kicking my ass and it was a good thing the six year old wasn't there to witness me struggle to put the puzzle together. After a few minutes, of course, Dominic decided cars were more fun than the puzzle, but he would play with them next to me at the table for moral support. I hunkered down and told him we couldn't do anything else until Mom finished the puzzle.

Eventually (notice I'm not saying how long it was?) Mom finished. See the proof?

I stopped at an estate sale the other day and walked out with about 9 skeins of natural colored wool yarn for $6.00. The rest was mostly some really hideous colors that I thought I would never use. Until I put my brain to it and realized that I could overdye them and probably come up with some decent colorways that way. So, I called the lady and asked to come over and see what was left. She was obliging and I met her yesterday. I staggered out this time with a garbage bag full of yarn for $20. Then, she stopped by my house 10 minutes later to refund me $5. Wha? She over-charged me, she claimed. Oh my goodness. I felt like a highway robber. She insisted on hugging me and told me to call her anytime I want. I still am in awe of her and her generosity.

More finished objects--

another felted dress to test my pattern notes:

The FAA socks are done:

What's next? Here's a pile of Cascade 220 that arrived today. I'm not a huge fan of this yarn, but I needed something not too expensive, easily found that is available in all of the colors I wanted without dyeing it myself. It's a suprise, so that's all you'll hear about that right now. It's all wound up and ready to go, so I'm off to knit!! Enjoy your weekend, everyone.

2006-10-17T08:52:00.000-05:00

Another freaking countdown

In a year of lackluster movies, October 20th is the day Marie Antoinette finally opens in the US. I've been waiting forever for this one to open. I LOVED Lost in Translation passionately and have very high hopes for this new one from Sofia Coppola. Who else would pair rock and roll music with the doomed French queen? I'm not a huge Kirsten Dunst fan, but in the previews I've seen, she looks perfect.

"DATE NIGHT" is scrawled on the calendar in huge red letters because I am not waiting another day to see this one!

2006-10-16T13:54:00.000-05:00

Only two more days
Until the Project Runway winner is revealed!! I think at this point, it's still too hard to say who the winner will be. I do think my buddy Michael will not be winning, though. His collection was a disappointment to me. And with all of the drama over Jeffrey and Laura...I don't know.
Halloween is coming up and I am NOT one of those super moms who makes the most amazing costumes for their kids. Basically, because I think Halloween is a waste of time and money. How's that for Bah humbug? It's too bad for Anthony because he friggin loves Halloween. I try to be a good sport, but I definitely don't go overboard.

It's been unseasonably cold here lately and I've been living in flannel pajama bottoms, warm socks and sweat shirts at home. Hand knit wool socks definitely take the cake for keeping the feet nice and toasty. So, after I finish the pair for the Fiber Arts Avengers auction winner, I'll cast on another pair and probably keep a sock on the needles at all times until spring.

2006-10-10T08:28:00.000-05:00

The hat and mittens seen yesterday and another iPod cover are on sale today at noon Eastern time:

http://hyenacart.com/KimberlyR/index.php?c=13

2006-10-09T14:00:00.000-05:00

Yet *more* hibernating!

It's been a long week of taking care of the convalescent. He's turned rather crabby and hard to please. When you're eating a soft diet and everything hurts your throat, it's difficult to be nice. I understand. Nighttime has been horrific and I will spare you a shot of the bags under my eyes right now. I think we have, however, turned a corner and are making our way towards normalcy again.

This pretty much sums up my coping--knitting small things from this jumble of yarn bits that I dragged out of my yarn stash. Never fear, there is LOTS more where those come from, but these caught my fancy. (The cute bag is a yarn cubby from Tif at Dara&Scott.com. I love it, it goes with me wherever I go and gets compliments all of the time.) Anyway, knitting small things from this yarn and felting everything in sight has been therapeutic.

2006-10-04T09:32:00.000-05:00

Kids are magic.

We took Anthony to have his surgery yesterday morning. He was so brave and stoic. It was frightening to see him drift off to sleep on the operating table, and frightening to wait for him to wake up and be Anthony again. He did so well, though. No puking, which I was expecting. Minimal tears. He enjoyed inspecting his tonsils and adenoids and hearing how they were "huge" in comparison to most tonsils and adenoids.

He shrugs off Tylenol with codeine and since he is denied his bike and skateboard, hunts for bugs in the backyard. We wake him at 2 for his medicine, but other than that, he sleeps all night long withuot a peep.

He is my hero.

2006-10-02T10:51:00.000-05:00

What I've been up to...

Hibernating, kinda. I've had a weird chest/flu thing. I spent the weekend on the sofa and feel OK today. Anyway, I managed to get a few things done during the sick time.

This hood/scarf is going to be a gift for someone's special mom:

It's Andromeda yarn from Henry's Attic, which is a single ply 50%wool/50% silk. YUM. Heaven to knit with and wear.

I also dyed some sock yarn for the winner of my auction for the Fiber Arts Avengers:

She wanted kettle dyed, so that's what she got! I am really excited to see how it knits up. It's Kona superwash merino from Henry's Attic, too. Fingering weight.

Tomorrow is the T&A day for my son. I'm trying to get things under control here so that I can focus on him tomorrow. Please send me Strong Mom vibes!

2006-09-27T11:18:00.000-05:00

Oh, look at what arrived in my mail today!

My friend Erica kindly and beautifully embroidered our names on towels, so I know who to yell at when I find a towel lying on the floor.

They are so perfect for my new bathroom, I am giddy. I made those curtains, btw. My second ever sewing project. I won't disclose how long it took or how many times I had to rip out the little hole I was supposed to leave open for the curtain rod to go through.

Dominic enjoyed snuggling his towel:

Thank you, Erica! You are a queen!

2006-09-26T22:20:00.000-05:00

It was a g&t kinda night tonight...

I drank my first while making dinner. The second while making the kids clean up after dinnner. Gotta do that more often.

The 6 yo son is scheduled for a t&a on Oct. 3rd. At first, I couldn't believe that the medical professionals actually call a tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy a "t&a" with a straight face, because I could hardly stand to look them in the eye when they said that. Anyway, now that my son knows the term "t&a" I can't wait to see how the public reacts the first time he says it.

So, now that I got that childish bit out, I'm searching the web for enough soft foods to sustain him for two weeks. He's kind of on the skinny side, so I'm a little worried about him losing too much weight after. Although, he did inform me that marshmallow shakes would be just perfect.

2006-09-24T11:39:00.000-05:00

Homecoming--*sob*

Yesterday was Homecoming at my daughter's school. First of all, I was floored to hear that middle school kids have Homecoming. Second of all, I couldn't believe it was treated like high school Homecoming. To an extent--no dinners out, but the manicures, the dresses, the hair, the tears over dates, ay yi yi.

My daughter is on the left.

She would kill me if she knew I was posting this picture on the internet. This is my reward for being perpetually on the road yesterday to get her beautiful and ready to dance with the infamous Ian.

2006-09-20T12:40:00.000-05:00

This is sleazy...even for Republicans

I got a phone call this morning from a Deborah Cochran from Senator Tom Reynolds' office. I won a congressional award and they need to send me a press packet.

Instead of being thrilled, I was instantly suspicious and Googled the good Senator and looked up his phone numer. It didn't match the number I was given: 866-338-8289. So, I Googled the number and found this.

Can I just say how pissed I am at the underhanded way this is handled? How I am writing a letter to the editor of my newspaper today about this? Tsk tsk.

2006-09-19T08:34:00.000-05:00

What to do about Twinkies?

I try to pack nutritious lunches for my son and bypass things like Flamin' Hot Cheetos because they just freak me out.

Now, I'm not totally anti-sugar. I include homemade pudding, cake, stuff like that. However, I found out that the son is just eating that junk from his friends' lunches. They share the Fruit Roll Ups, and the Twinkies and the damn Flamin' Hot Cheetos.

Do I just give in and buy that stuff? It's so irritating because it's so much cheaper in this country to eat that crap. You can buy a box of 12 Twinkies for something like $2. TWO DOLLARS. I pay more than that for a bag of apples.

2006-09-18T10:05:00.000-05:00

I was listening to the radio this morning and am heart-sick to hear that the issues in Darfur are not getting better and are, in fact, expected to get much worse. Nothing bothers me nearly as much as genocide. It's human nature at it's very very worst.

The Genocide Intervention Network is doing wonderful work in the Darfur region, helping to protect the innocent. Please go read about their mission and how you can help.

2006-09-15T10:56:00.000-05:00

I get a kick out of bands who don't take it all so seriously. OK Go seems to be in that vein, along with bands like They Might be Giants and Bare Naked Ladies. If you need a giggle (and I did because the President is on TV right now) watch this video. It's a much better use for treadmills than the norm, I think.

- "Here It Goes Again"

EDITED because the direct video link was messing up my blog. I think it was coded to work with My Space users.

2006-09-15T09:23:00.000-05:00

If you love Project Runway, raise your hand

I don't know why, but I am totally addicted to this show this season. I usually really don't get into any reality TV, but I suppose since it's about the designs and less about the designers, I like it more.

This week, one of my faves, Kayne was out. Good-bye, sweet Kayne. For what it's worth, I thought your couture gown was beautiful. Here's a nice interview of Kayne that I found online.

Dibs on who wins? I think Michael.

2006-09-14T23:10:00.000-05:00

*Whew*

I don't know why the pictures insist on staying where they are instead of letting me move them around. But I'm too tired to worry about it right now.

2006-09-14T13:18:00.000-05:00

Hold my hand, please

I'm about to send this into the washer and dryer to felt. Eeks.

2006-09-13T10:18:00.001-05:00

Been buying books

I bought this yesterday from Barnes and Noble online. Also bought this for my daughter.

I was looking for the father of that mean girl last night at Open House, but he wasn't there. Darn. I did, however, receive glowing reports from all of my daughter's teachers that she is doing well so far. She is also the Editor in Chief of the yearbook this year! That is totally rocking since I was a total Publications geek in middle school and high school.

I like this seller at Etsy and think I'll buy something to give to the daughter as a congratuations gift.

2006-09-12T08:50:00.000-05:00

Mean Girls

Suck. Seriously, sometimes I loathe the fact that I am female. And that I had a daughter who is female. Because girls suck. Mean girls suck even more. Today's post is not going to be about womanly comradeship, it's gonna be about middle school girls who are awful.

My daughter has a friend who is pretty manipulative and always manages to get my daughter feeling bad about calling this girl on her lies and crap like that. So, today is the beginning of Plan B. I told her there's no rule that says she has to be best friends with this girl forever. That there are, in fact, a whole world full of girls out there to be friends with. Many of whom are not little snotty punks who take pleasure in being mean.

Now, I'm not for a second thinking that my daughter is 100% innocent--I know how girls are. But I also know she is not good at defending herself and is too kind for her own good sometimes. She and I know this girl comes from a messed up home situation. She thinks being a good friend means taking all the crap from this girl. Nuh-uh.

So, back to Plan B....she has a friend from ballet who is really wonderful. I'm encouraging more time spent with this girl and a few others who manage to stay out of the drama and focus on the things that are more important and fulfilling--dance, school, having fun without worrying that the next day at school will bring some kind of twisted argument.

Please wish us luck.

2006-09-11T11:15:00.000-05:00

On a brighter note

This is some yummy Montana yarn that I dyed these pink and green shades. What will I do with them?

Here's a hint--and NO it's not a sleeping mask for a cat, but an experiment with felting:

2006-09-11T10:22:00.000-05:00

5 Years Later

Each year, the pain of 9/11 does not get easier. I don't know if it ever will. Now, I know why they reminisce about where they were when JFK was murdered. This is a universal pain, more for others, less for some.

On that day, I was keening in the bathroom over the loss of a baby. I had only found out one week prior that I was pregnant. It had been a tumultuous week as DH and I struggled to deal with this unplanned pregnancy. Then, in a wink, it was gone. Taken out of our hands. Loss.

After I stumbled out of the bathroom and tried to resemble a normal parent for my then one-year-old son, I turned on the TV for cartoons and saw what had happened. It took me about 2o minutes to realize it was not a joke and take in the horror of what had happened. To me then, my pain was greater than the pain of 9/11. I was not able to grieve for 9/11 until a year later when the shows on television discussed it and re-showed the footage from the people running for their lives in the streets of New York City. Right now, I am crying for them.

My then one-year-old is six now. Listening to NPR this morning for the news, I was awakened to the fact that today is 9/11 again. He heard the discussion and asked me about it.

"Honey, five years ago, some bad people hijacked two planes and crashed them into the Twin Towers in New York City. Lots of people were killed."

He thought about that for a second and asked the defining question:

"Mom, was it an accident or did they do it on purpose?"

It broke my heart to have to tell him. "On purpose."

I have seen flags all around today as I drove him to school. To all of us, being patriotic means different things. Hold your flag in your heart, next to your hope for the future of our children. Hold your loved ones today and hope.

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

Today is being spent dealing with something like 20 lbs. of tomatoes.

Also, finished felting some slipper socks that are up for auction to benefit the Fiber Arts Avengers here:

http://www.wahmchicks.com/auctiondetails.php?id=1418

Need to take the daughter to auditions for the Nutcracker today, as well. Tell her to break a leg!

Yesterday I made some really great banana bread using this recipe from Cooking Light. It has RUM and COCONUT in it with a lime glaze. YUM.

2006-09-08T18:35:00.000-05:00

WOOT! Brenda Dayne is a goddess!

I don't know if you listen to Cast-On but I love Brenda Dayne and think her podcast is one of the best. I sent her an email about a group of fiber artists I belong to called the Fiber Arts Avengers

and asked her to spam us on her podcast for our fund raising efforts. We raise money to sponsor ladies who walk in the Breast Cancer 3 Day walk. This year's auctions are starting up NOW so go and see if you can find something you love. More goodies will be going up soon, including a pair of felted slipper socks I've been working on, please don't mind the funky picture, it's a quickie so I can finish knitting it's mate:

I've never been able to adequately capture this colorway in a picture--it's a mix of teals, turquoise, periwinkle and blue that I kettle dyed so it avoids pooling too badly. This is a very nice soft yarn, so they won't itch and will keep your tootsies nice and warm :)

So, go and bid, it's for a great cause!

2006-09-08T09:10:00.000-05:00

I'm dipping my toe into eBay. I haven't in a long time, but what the heck. I saw that they have added this category since my last foray for custom, hand-made clothing. WOOHOO.

So, here's the auction , if you want to take a peep, it's for a little "Snug" if you need a warm sweater jacket.

I used a new program called iSale to list the auction, made for Macs and I gotta tell you, it's pretty slick. They let you try it out for three auctions for free. They have lots of nice templates although if I decide to purchase it, I may give creating my own template a shot so I can incorporate my logo and all.

The downfalls are:

not totally easy to get rid of the pictures they stick in the templates
you cannot do any html coding in the text boxes, so clickable links are out
you cannot use an online photo server like photobucket for your pictures, they want you to use eBay's photo service, .Mac (great if you have an acct.) or ftp.

But the rest is really great. If you're not totally computer savvy, you can use this program with ease. You can drop and drag photos from your computer, or click a button and up pops your photo library from iPhoto. The program makes it easy to track your auctions, tracks your hits and is really pretty to look at. :)

2006-09-06T22:00:00.001-05:00

the bug is back

creativity abounds tonight. i'm tackling some of the "how will i do this?" portions of some patterns that i keep sketching and have a question for you--

do you know of a knit stitch that looks like weaving besides the slip stitch variations?

i could use a little loom if have to, but i don't want to.

2006-09-06T22:00:00.000-05:00

2006-09-06T08:38:00.000-05:00

If you're a wife--How have you evolved?

This is something I've been thinking about for a while here.

Stage 1:

I started out in the Honeymoon stage. I pampered my husband and did all the housewifely duties cheerfully (and sometimes quite enthusiastically).

Stage 2:

Then, I decided all this pampering was for the birds and I am not his mother, I am mother to three kids. I stopped picking up his socks and putting them in the laundry chute. I also stopped putting his clothes away.

Stage 3:

I've actually been actively pushing the husband out of the nest, forcing him to learn scary new computer skills, cooking skills, and ironing skills. I find it most un-sexy when my husband requires my attention in a "motherly" way.

I guess the thing is--I want more than to be a wife and mother. I used to think it was alright for ME, but it's not. So now I have to get my kids and husband to accept this, too. Is this fair for them? To pull this switch-a-roo on them?

2006-09-05T10:43:00.000-05:00

Our basement got a little water after the storms last night. I went down today and looked around and pitched a bunch of stuff that had been sitting down there because my husband is a packrat of the worst kind--icky stuffed animals that his parents give the kids from garage sales and other fun items like that.

Then, I plugged in the Shop Vac and sucked up the millions of spider webs and spiders that had been hanging out down there. It was so satisfying, it's scary.

I think I've now earned myself an afternoon of knitting while the youngest is napping.

2006-09-04T21:20:00.000-05:00

Today was like spring. Thunderstorms and tornado warnings in SEPTEMBER? Over 6 inches of rain and cars are flooded up to their windshields in parts of the city. Basement walls are collapsing. Power is out in a lot of areas. We made it home from a party just in time to avoid swimming home and have power. We are so lucky.

This weekend has been one long growing pain. In many different ways, there have been pains.

The barely teenaged daughter (13) has been the opposite of fun to talk to, extract information from, and shop with. Her feet are to put it mildly--huge. All the friends are wearing cute slip on Vans but her feet are too wide for these shoes. We finally found a pair of Rock et Dog shoes that would fit but of course they weren't "in" or "cool" or "whatever" enough. Poor thing was in tears over the size of her feet.

Then, she lied to me about using my makeup. So, we have THAT. If she would have been honest and not such a snot when confronted with her lie, it would have gone so much better for her.

Growing pains--they hurt. I am dealing with the fact that I am not cool, and I apparently have no fashion sense. Also, feeling like the only thing she wants from me is stuff and money and rides to places bites.

The 6 yo son has expressed interest in being like everyone else. We've been using the Laptop Lunchbox to avoid throwing plastic bags away all of the time and last year, he loved it. This year? He wants a lunchbox like all of the other kids. NOT THAT PHRASE AGAIN! I'm trying to kick up the menu for his lunches to see if that will help at all. Tomorrow is this kick-ass chocolate pudding from my boyfriend Alton Brown on the Food Network.

On a more fun note, I also found myself a cute pair of shoes since my Bjorns finally kicked the bucket. I brought these home and wore them out today and they are perfect. Comfy and cute.

2006-09-03T09:26:00.000-05:00

I'm feeling a drain on my creativity lately. All these ideas I had sketched out are not coming to fruition because I know if I pick up the needles while not inspired, it will all go wrong.

So I'm sticking to tried and true things until it comes back. I think there have been too many different things pulling at my brain and body lately and I need to try to streamline some things.

I wish that old Seinfeld trick worked--

"SERENITY NOW!"

On a more fun note, JCPenney has Chuck Taylors on sale now for kids--buy 1 pair, get the next pair for $1. So both my boys are sporting black Chucks and I think they are the cutest thing ever.

2006-09-01T15:32:00.000-05:00

So, Marnie

Please ask The Squid to stop giving Dominic ideas.

2006-09-01T08:54:00.000-05:00

The son is successfully started at his new school. The first day went well, and his teacher called last night to give us a report--all glowing, of course. See, I have one of *those* kids. It took me by suprise when I first noticed that I had one of *those* kids.

My son can charm the pants off of anyone around. I thought he was gorgeous and darling when he was born, of course. But then his personality took over (even though he refused to sleep for the first two years of his life and was sick every other week) and I cannot take him anywhere without someone gushing over him. And I'm used to gushing. My daughter receives frequent comments on her looks, her manners and so on while we're out in public. My youngest son is so cute it's silly. But it's ridiculous with my older son. I can't go to the gynecologist without him without getting a smackdown for not bringing him with so they can chat with him. I can't go to the dentist without the same thing happening. The pediatrician's office? Ridiculous. "Look, he said 'I feel nauseous'. Isn't that cayoot?!?" My aunt calls frequently just to talk to him. All of his teachers have loved him. All of the parents in the classes love him. He's just one of those kids. I hope he uses this power for good and not evil. I hope he avoids places like Las Vegas and Hollywood.

Anyway, enough of that, I'm sure your eyes are glazing over at my unabashed gloating.

So, the new school--my poor husband is having an inferiority complex due to his vehicle. See, it's mostly Lexus, BMW, Mercedes there. And here comes my husband in the '93 Subaru station wagon. We're waiting until it dies before going for a hybrid for him to drive to work...but anyway, this is going to be a good way to learn what our values are in regards to money and possessions.

Do I wish I have the money for manicures and fabulous shoes and a better haircut? Absolutely. But, I thank my lucky stars that we were able to afford to send him to this school. And hopefully, one day, with the education he's received at this school and his special skills at charming people, our son can pick us up in his expensive vehicle as thanks.

2006-08-30T09:44:00.000-05:00

Could someone at iTunes please let me know when the second season of Weeds will arrive in the store, so I can continue my unhealthy addiction? (Pun--funny, no?) I guess that picture is pretty small. Bear with me as I figure this Blogger thing out. We canceled cable to avoid corrupting our children as best we can, but Mom needs her smut. I AM grateful that Project Runway appears so promptly in the store, though.

All summer long, I've been waiting for the day when the two oldest are back in school. My Anthony seems determined to lengthen my wait as long as he can.

Number of days of school in session: 2. Days absent: 2

I had hopes the antibiotic would have him fine and dandy this morning in time for school. Not so. He is pretty perky today, but still 101.7. Which is better than the 104 he woke up at yesterday, but not good enough for school.

*sigh*

I have cast on a legwarmer for a little one because the never-ending knee sock was making me nuts.

Plus, I'm sick with a cold myself, so anything that requires more thought than a legwarmer or rounds on a sock cuff and just out of the question.

2006-08-29T13:32:00.000-05:00

Better yet, another blog by a KNITTER. Who COOKS and has KIDS and likes to talk about BOOKS. All things that have been lacking in the blogsphere until now.

I am Kim, a SAHM to three children. I am not sure how much about my kids I will reveal in this blog as of yet. I am a professional knitter by trade--it's one of those things you don't aspire to in high school, but it happens. I design knit *things* and sell them.

My husband is my business backer, he didn't want to be my partner. LOL Which is fine by me, since we have serious differences of opinion on a lot of things and I don't want to have to compromise that much when it comes to yarn and my creativity.

We live in the Midwest. It's kind of my goal to move out of this area, which would accomplish a few things: get us out of this boring area, find better schools for our kids, move me away from my ILs.

I garden and as usual, am overwhelmed by the amount of produce that comes out of it. I decided against the zucchinni plant this year which in itself saved me many sobbing nights begging neighbors to just take them and do whatever they want with them.

However, it's tomato season!! These are just a handful of the tomatoes I'm dealing with today. I have transformed about 30 of the plum tomatoes into a pot of sauce. The rest will be canned with basil leaves and garlic cloves when I decide I can handle it. I also have a second wave of green beans, which is delightful because I didn't get enough in the first wave due to Mexican Bean Beetles.

Now, onto the kids portion of this post:

My 6 year old son is dealing with yet another case of tonsillitis and missed the first day of school. Which was a real bummer, since he's starting at a new private Country Day school. The pediatrician is suggesting we look into seeing an ENT about this because this is 6 cases of similar infections in a span of 6 months. I struggle with this because I hate to see him get these infections so frequently and miss out on things (he missed 14 days of school last year due to illness!) but surgery on my little man freaks.me.out.

I think it's time to end this post and go start peeling tomatoes.

Oh, almost forgot the KNITTING portion:

On the needles is a sock in Lorna's Laces "Bittersweet" colorway. It is going to be a kneesock since these skeins go so far. Love this yarn!