wagon full of stars

63x53 = awesome

2012-01-26T09:13:00.004-06:00

I finished this Granny Stripes blanket a few weeks ago. I started it around Thanksgiving. It was meant to be 45" x 45", but due to a newbie mistake I made the chain way too long, so I just hooked until I ran out of yarn. It's a great size for snuggling under on the couch and it is definitely my largest fiber project to date. I used the Debbie Stoller Washable Ewe. It's soft and while I haven't tired washing it yet, it's nice to know I can. I learned a lesson about why blankets are usually done in acrylic. Not only is it cheaper, but the static that this thing generates is epic!

Crochet is so much faster than knitting, I'm having a hard time picking up my needles again. There are so many WIPs at this point I'm feeling a little overwhelmed. That coupled with my usual late winter blues leaves me with little motivation to knit and even less to blog. But I'm daydreaming of Spring and planning my garden and I know that this is all temporary!

Happy Hooking

2011-11-18T13:35:00.001-06:00

This have been busy around here lately. A birthday, a craft fair, the usual life stuff. But I have managed to find a bit of time to do some of the Crochet School lessons...I'm woefully behind the class, but I can actually crochet things! Like that happy green pear for Ben's new play kitchen. It took less than a day to make, even with my newbie skills. I want to crochet a whole cornucopia for him to play with now.
Find the pattern for the pear and other fruits and veggies here. This guy has some holes in him where you can see the stuffing, but I imagine that's from needing to use a smaller hook. I used some random worsted weight cotton for both the body and the stem (which is navy blue, but oh well!) I apologize for the less than gorgeous photo, but well, it's cold today, I'm tired, and I can't be bothered to find my camera right now.

Awesome Books - First Art

2011-10-13T21:17:00.001-05:00

I discovered this book browsing on Amazon...I can't remember what, exactly, I was shopping for that it came up in my recommendations, but I'm happy that I clicked the link and even happier to borrow it from the library.

This book is chock-full of great ideas. All of the suggestions are given a messiness rating and almost everything can be done with items you probably already have. There are recipes for multiple kinds of play clay, paint, and other entertaining and creative goops. There are so many ideas in here for process-oriented art making that we could get to kindergarten. The author helpfully explains what the child will learn from the activity, ways to adapt it to the children at hand, and keeps the supplies largely limited to things that are easy to find and non-toxic.

The first thing we tried was water painting. It seemed too easy. A bucket 1/4 full of water and a paint brush. Really? Really. Entertained him for a looong time. For days, he demanded to play the "new game". And since it was so hot when we did this, the water evaporated quickly. Clean slate every few minutes!

Of course, the inevitable happened:

But so what? It was just a little water and he and I had fun making wet footprints from the puddle. I think even the most mess-phobic mamas can enjoy this one.

We also tired an aluminum foil activity that was a fail. I was to inspired to buy him an enormous newsprint pad with my Michael's coupon and that has also been a huge hit. That's the other great thing about these projects. Because they are about the process and not the product, the activities can be done for extended periods of time or repeated day after day.

If parents could give parent gifts rather than Melissa and Doug puzzles at birthday parties, I would be giving this book to anyone with a toddler. This book, and a bottle of wine. : )

The Best Little Yarn Crawl in Texas 2011

2011-10-12T10:47:00.005-05:00

This was my first year participating in The Best Little Yarn Crawl in Texas. I only made it to 4 of the 9 stops, but it was so much fun! I came home with a head full of project ideas and all kinds of knitting goodies.

I beefed up my stash with some sparkly sock yarn, beautifully heathered alpaca lace weight, and malabrigo lace weight in the best dark green color. Yarn with a bit of glitter in it seems to be the trend this fall, a trend that I was happy to indulge in!

We visited all the shops in the Austin area: The Knitting Nest, Hill Country Weavers, and Gauge. Then, my yarn crawl buddy and I got adventurous and took our toddlers out to Old Oaks Ranch Monday morning. Oh man, do I love me some alpacas! I have to say, as much fun as we had at the ranch, I was disappointed that I didn't get to touch an alpaca even though their ad in the passport says "Come touch an alpaca!". We also didn't get a free gift there, but taking pictures of the kiddos running around the sculpture garden was a great souvenir.

Everyone we encountered along the crawl was super friendly and helpful. I think it's great that they changed things up a bit this year so there's a giveaway that you can enter for each store.
Hopefully next year I can make it to all the stores so I can be eligible for the grand prize! Now if you'll excuse me, I have some serious knitting to attend to. :)

It Takes a Village Baby Blanket

2011-10-11T09:35:00.005-05:00

A member of Knitters Anonymous, the awesome knittin' and drinkin' group I'm in, recently had a little boy. While she was busy growing a human life, the rest of us made her this blanket.
We used two colors of Naturally Caron Spa and each member contributed a panel.
The only instructions given were to CO 36 stitches and knit in your chosen stitch pattern until your piece measured 32". I gathered up all the panels, stitched them together, and did a single crochet border around the edge to tie it all together. I think it looks very sweet and it is silky soft, perfect for delicate baby skin. Sorry for the blurry, picture, it's the only one I have. I think my camera is starting to lose it. : /
Anyway, I think this is a great project for a gift from a knitting group, but were I ever to do it again I would go with a cotton yarn.

Crochet School? Awesome!

2011-09-28T13:44:00.001-05:00

*Thanks, I think I will.*

I am totally signing up for this. I know how to do a couple of things, like chain and double crochet, but I can't read a pattern well and I am light years away from re-creating any of the awesome crocheted goodness on my pin board. Holy smokes, am I ever addicted to Pinterest right now. So many great ideas on there! Like Crochet School! It starts October 1st.

I do not need another hobby. But another SKILL, well, that's a different story.... right?

We Are Safe

2011-09-06T19:49:00.000-05:00

After a scary afternoon with no power and a fire burning way too close to my husband's office and 3(!) of my friend's homes, things seem to be under control again. That particular fire was started by some IDIOT throwing matches into a dry creek bed. As if mother nature wasn't enough.Anyway, as you can see from the video above, these fires are not to be trifled with. And not to be gross and political, we have Rick Perry to thank for making it so incredibly difficult to get the resources in place to fight these fires. Texas Cut Fire Department Funding by 75% This Year

For those of you not living in the state and find him an ideal candidate, please dig a little deeper and see how he has taken our schools from bad to abysmal and slashed public services. His own family doesn't even like his politics.

Spoke Too Soon

2011-09-06T13:41:00.002-05:00

As I made my last post, a fire started very close to us. I can hear sirens. It's closer to my friend's house than mine, and she is without power.
I found out on Twitter, and I'm following the developments here
We are ready to go, if need be.

Texas is on Fire

2011-09-06T13:10:00.000-05:00

As you may have heard, we are experiencing some serious wildfires here. The map above shows the situation as it was when I woke up at 7 this morning. (Real time fire map here) The fire in Bastrop County is 16 miles long and as wide as 6 miles in some places. If you are not familiar with Texas geography, East Texas is a pine forest. A huge, very dry, pine forest. It's a perfectly terrible situation for fire. There is no rain forecasted for the next ten days.
My husband and I figured out an evacuation meeting point, and a backup meeting point in case the first place we picked had to be evacuated as well. I packed a "go bag" and gathered all of our important documents so I could grab them in a hurry if need be. We're nervous. It's surreal to look out your window and everything appears fine but know that less than an hour's drive in any direction, there's fire.

Now, as I write this around one pm (the above map shows the current situation), things are feeling slightly less scary. The fires that were within 10 miles of our house are under control or out. The winds have died down. I've heard FEMA is supposed to be here today.

But our resources are maxed out. All reports are that fire-fighting capabilities have been stretched to the breaking point. There is no guarantee that some idiot won't toss a lit cigarette, light a BBQ or drive a hot car over dead grass and start another massive fire. We are just trying to be safe and ready to go if need be, and to help out our Central Texas neighbors anyway we can.

You can help too, by making a donation to the American Red Cross of Central Texas . The last report I heard said 475 homes in the area have been completely destroyed and many more damaged. Every little bit helps these people in their time of need.

Meanwhile, I finished a quilt top this weekend. Crafting is always soothing.

A Record Breaker

2011-08-23T12:51:00.009-05:00

Today we tie 1925 as having the most 100+ degree days in a calendar year. We are poised to blow that record out of the water.
The sky most days is a relentless, empty, terrifying shade of blue. What animals that have survived the drought thus far act strangely. Squirrels drape themselves along tree branches like miniature fur rugs, too beaten down by the heat to run from our barking terrier. Huge wolf spiders show up in our kitchen, at our entry way, in broad daylight, given up on their own safety and smacked to the hereafter with my shoe.

I hear there is in rain in heaven.

The tomato plants quit early this year. The temperatures stopped dropping down enough at night for them to continue to produce.

This drought and unyielding heat bring to the forefront of my mind how we are just animals too. Fortunate animals that have figured out air conditioning and water treatment facilities and indoor playgrounds, but tied to the rhythms and whims of nature nonetheless. I find myself thinking that everything would be ok, all of my problems would be solved if it would just rain.

The memory of water stains the dehydrated gutters as the heat, once an abstraction but now a living thing, shimmers off the pavement. I feel a little desperate in the afternoons. You can burn yourself getting into your car. Many people have died from heat exposure. Things are so much worse in Africa. I think about those people a lot these days.

I feel a little desperate when I see the weather forecast on the news at night. I keep thinking, "Surely, next week will bring relief." But it never does. How long can this go on?

There is an event tonight at the ballpark to have the largest rain dance in Guiness book history. I sense God laughing.

Owls

2011-08-16T13:41:00.003-05:00

I was hold Ben and reading my blog roll the other day when we came across this tutorial on how to make a little stuffed owl. He shouted "Owl! Owl! Hoo hoo!". (Thank you Mr. Brown Can Moo) I thought, "awesome, something I can make for him he will actually like.
Then I got really ambitious. He's too young to sew or anything, but he loves stickers. So I used some felt and made him a mini felt board owl activity thing.
As you can see, Ben is an abstract expressionist. He also actually pronounces owl "owl-le", like it has a little Spanish flair to it. I was hoping this was another Super Mom moment, but his interest in the owl-le stickers was not nearly long enough for me to sew an owl. This cartoon sums up all of my attempts at toddler art in a hilarious nutshell.

My own owl-le came out over-exposed and lumpy, which is what happens when you try to sew or photograph while entertaining a toddler. One day I will learn...one day.

Crunchy Play Clay

2011-08-03T13:26:00.006-05:00

Between a bout of stomach bug and extreme temperatures, we've been imprisoned in the house for what feels like years. I've been trying to fight the cabin fever with some creative play activities. The biggest success by far was an afternoon spent with homemade play dough and all the fixin's. It was inspired by this post over over at An Amazing Child.

*blurry with excitement*

The only modification I made to the dough recipe was to add about 20 drops of yellow food coloring at B's request. The color is not awesome, but he didn't seem to care.
We made the dough together, me scooping the ingredients and him dumping them in and stirring the dry mixture. The downside is that it needs some time on the stove and is too hot to play with for a while. That's the tough part, managing an excited toddler and hot goop. But the entertainment-to-hassle ratio was high on the entertainment side for both of us.
This is a great multi-sensory, open-ended play activity that he was very happy to explore independently.
Best of all, it granted me 20 minutes to clean the kitchen unmolested by tiny hands trying to help. And that, dear friends, made me feel like I earned a badge for my SuperMom cape.

Wedding Season pt. 2

2011-07-29T13:25:00.000-05:00

My friend asked me to make her a set of keep and toss garters for her wedding this fall. I was a bit nervous making them, but after a little trial and error, I think they turned out nicely.

The ribbon is the same as on the ring bearer pillow and matches the bride's maids color scheme. The center bling-y bits are actually buttons.

I googled "wedding garter tutorial" and found lots of tutorials. I had already bought the materials, so I didn't follow any one specific guide but it was handy to get some ideas about techniques and measurements. I heat sealed the edges of the ribbons so they wouldn't fray.

And, of course, a little tiny something blue! Making these turned out to be a lot of fun! I originally was going to make my own garter for my wedding, but then we decided not to include a garter toss. I still have a tiny skein of white silk in my stash...not really enough to make one anyway, but I was a newbie knitter with big dreams. :)
Have a great weekend and stay cool out there!

Boots!

2011-07-28T13:16:00.000-05:00

The boot fairy has heard my cries and bestowed upon me a fabulous pair of Frye Harness boots. It's amazing what happens when you ~~whine incessantly for months~~ ask nicely. The boot-to-lanesplitter shirt ratio is a bit off, so I think I'm going to hem it up to show more of my leg than just my old man knees. The boots make me bold. (which is also why I clearly couldn't be bothered to get my husband's sandals out of the shot) I wish I could get paid in boots.

Lanesplitter

2011-06-26T19:14:00.004-05:00

Pattern: Lanesplitter
Yarn: Noro Taiyo color 6 (discontinued)
Needles: size 9

I have to say, I had my doubts about this project. I tried to knit a skirt in the past and was met with FTCO syndrome (Failure To Cast On) so now I have lots and lots or brown yarn to contend with. I digress. This pattern was simple to make and the results are striking. That's my favorite kind of pattern to make!
I was worried that the seam would be unsightly, but I think the colors lined up reasonably well. Instead of picking up and knitting the waistband, I used the lining instructions from So Knit Picky and it made the project go even faster. The skirt is extremely comfortable...I can't wait for cooler weather so I can wear it. Perhaps with these Frye Boots? Dear boot fairy, I am a size 9.

Also, I do plan on fixing my blog header relatively soon. The empty wagon is not some sort of existential statement. Something is wrong with my eyes and staring intently at a screen only makes things worse. I am getting myself to a doctor soon though, so no worries.

Pickles Two Ways

2011-06-21T12:04:00.005-05:00

Happy first official day of summer! I find this day rather hilarious because we have already broken several triple digit records and it feels more like late August than mid-June. But what better way to beat the heat than to make some cold, crunchy pickles? You barely even have to turn on your oven for these babies and they're ready in a couple of hours.

Adapted from Alton Brown

Regular Not Too Sweet Bread n' Butter Pickles

You will need:

2 medium cucumbers
1/2 an onion
1 cup of water
1 cup of apple cider vinegar
1 1/4 cups of sugar
pinch of salt
1/2 teaspoon of mustard seeds
1/2 teaspoon of celery seeds
1/2 teaspoon of pickling spice

Thinly slice the cucumbers and onions. Stuff them into a glass jar with a tightly closing lid. In a saucepan, combine the remaining ingredients; bring to a boil. Turn down the heat and let simmer 4-5 minutes. Pour the pickling juice into the jar full of cucumbers and onions. After a couple of minutes, top of the jar with the remaining juice in your pan. Let it sit out on the counter until it reaches room temperature. (Thankfully, it's boiling hot here, so it came off the stove at "room temperature") Seal the jar and stick it in the fridge until cold. Volia!

Sweet n' Spicy Pickled Goodies
Follow the directions as above, but use 1 cucumber, a little less onion, 4 banana peppers, two jalapenos and a couple of dashes of red pepper in the jar. (slice the banana peppers and jalapenos). Make the pickling juice as above. The spiciness level is easy to adjust. Also, it's easy to make a spicy and non-spicy version at the same time, just double the amount of pickling juice, stick whatever combination of cucumbers and peppers in your jars and go to town! I kind of want to pickle everything now. :)

If your kids are old enough, they can get involved filling the jars with their own vegetables and helping to measure the spices. It's good to make a few jars at once...they are highly addicting!

Happy Summer!

All-Natural Robot

2011-06-07T14:13:00.006-05:00

From a 6"x3"brick of natural latex foam and wool batting to a cuddly, squishy robot!

WHY did I have a 6"x3" block of natural latex foam to make said robot? Well, we were in the market for a new mattress and being the super shopper that I am, I started researching mattresses. Healthy sleep makes happy people, right?
Our old bed was well, old. And really lumpy. Anyway, it doesn't take much research to come across what I felt were valid concerns about the safety of the chemicals used in making mattresses flame retardant. If you want to freak yourself out, just Google "flame retardant chemicals in mattresses". (Don't do it if you're pregnant or breastfeeding, you don't need the stress)
My basic "good quality, affordable price" research turned into a full-blown hunt to find a natural but competitively priced option. During said hunt, I came across The Natural Bed Store. They generously offer a sample of their mattress making materials.

In the end, we went with a Natura Green Spring and are very pleased. But I couldn't let such nice materials go to waste! Ben loves his little "woe-wot" and I loved exercising my creative muscles. I used all of the sample...the ribbon tied around it turned into the robot's face and arms. His body is black corduroy for the seemingly endless supply in my fabric stash, and the star is from an old moth-ruined cashmere sweater. I'm proud of myself for making something using only what I have. I need to make an effort to do that more often!

Belinda's Dream Rose

2011-06-06T13:13:00.005-05:00

For Mother's Day, I got a rose bush from the Antique Rose Emporium. I've been wanting an antique rose bush since we got a yard. Today, I got my first rose! The name of this shrub is Belinda's Dream. Lovely, no?

Sadly, we are in a serious drought and temperatures are more like late July than early June.
See those scattered thunderstorms? The weatherman keeps teasing us about water falling from the sky, but it's been a long time since that's happened in my yard. I'm working hard to keep all the plants we put in this spring alive.

My Coral Drifter has a little bloom explosion going on right now. One of the benefits of Knockout and Antique rose varieties is their hardiness. Their dainty good looks are just a ruse.

My container cherry tomato plants have some fruit now, this one plucked too soon by an over-eager toddler. Too bad it isn't big enough to fry!

All this "look at my inspiration board" and "look at my garden" may lead one to believe that there has been no knitting, crafting, or doll making of any kind...but there has! I just haven't gotten decent photos of anything. Soon, my friends, soon.

Quilt Inspirations

2011-05-21T12:32:00.000-05:00

1. Yellow Brick Road Back, 2. Yellow Cross Quilt, 3. red and yellow stripes, 4. Cross quilt, 5. deutsche quilt finished - front, 6. bubbs quilt top, 7. Orange and Yellow Zig Zag Quilt back, 8. Yellow Blanket Throw Roses, 9. Orange and Yellow Zig Zag Quilt

You know it's summer when you start thinking about...quilts. Ok, maybe that's just me. But lately I've been thinking a lot about making my son a quilt. Yellow is his favorite color, I've been wanting to try to make a zig-zag quilt, bam! I should do it.

But yellow is probably my least favorite color ever. Orange might be worse, depending on the shade. Warm colors are just not my thing. This is not for me though...but I also have to look at it.

What to do? Anyone have any favorite yellow fabrics out there?

Circle Socks

2011-04-13T13:12:00.000-05:00

Pattern: Circle Socks by Ann Campbell (it's free!)
Yarn: Paton's Kroy Sock FX in Cameo Colors
Needle: size 2 DPNs

Modifications: I worked these toe-up over 56 stitches, with the stitch pattern over the instep. I would not have added the pattern to the instep if I was planning on wearing these with shoes. Also, I only worked 2 rounds of purl stitch instead of 3 because I hate purling in the round.

Verdict: I love these socks! They fit well and will be cozy to have around when the weather cools off again. The stitch pattern is simple and easy to memorize, but it gives dramatic results. The only thing I'm bummed about is that even though I bought yarn from the same colorway and dye lot, the colors don't match as closely as I would like.

Box Bag Bonanza!

2011-04-07T13:42:00.000-05:00

Remember when cute little box bags were all the rage on the crafting blogs a few years ago? Well, I never forgot and I have spent the past month or so making some. Shows you where I am on my crafting to-do list!

Anyway, these are fun and quick little projects that make nice gifts (unless, of course, all of my friends with Spring birthdays are lying to me to spare my feelings). I used this tutorial as a starting point for mine, and adjusted the dimensions as necessary. Also, I zigzagged the edges between steps 6 and 7 so the edges wouldn't fray inside and get all over your stuff.

The first one I made was for my good friend, crafty partner in crime, and birthday buddy Tiffany. She is a voracious knitter so this one was made with a 12" zipper and 16" of length to make it a good size to hold all of her sock projects.

She's set a goal to knit a pair of socks a month in 2011. Holeee crap. You can see her first three pairs here.

Open it up and it's always spring inside!

The next one is for my friend Jenn, who dosen't knit, but loves pedicures and is an amazing photographer. I made hers a bit smaller - a 9" zipper and 13" in length. A good size for nail polish, make up, or any other odd and ends you might want to keep together.

I added some complementary bias tape to the handle this time. I love bias tape.

The lining of this one is the same fabric, just with a pink background.

Finally, I had to make one for myself. It didn't quite turn out as planned. I kept running into issues with tread tension or interfacing (the extra thick kind did NOT want to play nice) so I had to keep cutting it down. I don't know what the dimensions are at this point, just that it's to small to be a knitting project bag but too big to something else.

Then, in my frustration and my craze to just. get. it. done. I forgot to add the handle. Blargh. Is anyone else cursed this way, or am I the only one that can't seem to make anything nice for myself?

On a positive note, I am completely over my fear of making things with zippers now!

Spring at My House

2011-04-05T13:33:00.000-05:00

I spent a happy weekend in the yard planting. It's so nice to see green again. I am slowly working towards a yard full of native plants...one day, I think it would be neat have my yard become a certified wildlife habitat. I did find a dead mouse head in the backyard, but I don't think that counts.

I spent some time Saturday at the nursery with my Grow Green Guide in hand, trying to get a good variety of plants. I came home with an Anacacho Orchid tree (center), verbena, jasmine, a beautiful Coral Drifter rose bush, lavender, and pink salvia. Most of them ended up in our front bed, heavy duty landscaping in the back will have to wait for another season. The tree and the jasmine are back there though, and I really enjoy when the wind blows the jasmine smell my way!

I'm out of the yard and back in the craft room, I'll have more to say about that later.

Wedding Season

2011-03-29T12:57:00.000-05:00

I've been doing a little crafting for my friend's wedding this October. This is the ring bearer's pillow. (Ben is the ring bearer. I can't wait to see him in a tiny tux!) The project idea came from The DIY Bride.

We made some modifications to the original concept, such as using silk flowers instead of real ones. Also, the original is all stephanotis flowers. Her pillow is mostly cream Phalaenopsis orchids, with the spaces filled in with small white hyacinth flowers. I think the result is so pretty! It's frilly and girly, yet still modern and elegant.

The rings, by the way, are mine and will mostly likely be the only real rings this pillow will hold. There's no way I'm going to trust my almost two year old with theirs!

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

2011-03-17T12:54:00.000-05:00

"May the road rise up to meet, may the wind always be at your back, may the sun shine gently upon your face, may the rain fall softly on your fields..." - Irish Blessing

There has been more yarn dyeing afoot! This is just one of many skeins my friend and I colored last weekend. It's a sock blank from Knit Picks, dyed in a gradient using teal dye. The darkest end turned out almost shamrock green, while the lightest end is a happy aqua.
The blank is actually two separate stands, so when you knit with it, you will have identical socks. I am planning on making them into Kalajoki socks .

The warmer weather has my thoughts turning to sewing and doll making, so the socks may have to wait.

Hand-Dyed Yarn

2011-02-24T13:01:00.000-06:00

The other day, I spent a happy nap time in the kitchen with steaming pots of vinegar water, yarn, and dye. I haven't dyed yarns in years (some previous attempts here and here), so I refreshed my memory of the process with a few tutorials and then jumped right in.

As everyone knows by now, I love making a mess. Dyeing your own yarn is a great way to make a mess. I suggest gloves at the very least, but a full body hazmat suit wouldn't be overboard. I got dye everywhere. Luckily it came out of my jeans, off the floor, and didn't stain the counters. The trick is to get it up quick before it sets.

Anyway, this round was done with food grade dyes on a bulky 100% wool single-ply base yarn. All of these little skeins are destined to become doll hair. Fairy doll hair.

Aren't my pictures nice? I rigged up a tiny home photo studio for about 10 dollars and 20 minutes worth of time. As you can see though the window, there was almost no natural light to be had that day. Ha, mother nature! I got good shots anyway. The how-to for the photo light box is here.

Nekkid No More - Sewing Machine Cover

2011-02-23T18:25:00.000-06:00

My new sewing machine (a Singer 4423) is awesome. It was my big Christmas gift this year and I've really enjoyed using it. The only downside is that it came with a less than attractive plastic cover.

I remedied that today with this super simple project. Before I made this sewing machine cover, I looked up a few tutorials but in the end I just measured it, sketched up a rough idea of what each piece should look like and stitched it up. I wasn't able to complete it in one sitting but I would estimate I spent about an hour total.

My sister taught me how to make these easy and cute roses from felt last year. I used up-cycled felted sweaters for both the roses and the leaves, but any felt will do. There's a tutorial on how to make them here.

Belated!

2011-02-15T12:05:00.001-06:00

It's been a while since I've posted, though not for lack of subject matter. I just hate this time of year. It's bone chillingly cold, everyone is sick, and the skies are grey more often than not. I have been hunkered down, waiting for spring.

I do have some bright spots of color to share now. We had a laid-back Valentine's Day. My husband came home for lunch (seeing him mid-day is always a treat!) and we splurged on these awesome coffee mugs. And of course, there were roses.

This one goes beautifully with my new purple kitchen walls.

See the double center?

These long late winter nights have been filled with making of various kinds. I have knitted my first successful sweater! I wore it to mom's night out and no one even asked me if I made it. I count this as a huge compliment, because it looks so good people must have thought it was commercially made. Unfortunately, I have yet to get a great picture of it. This one will have to do instead.

Pattern: Idlewood
Yarn: Berrocco Peruvia in Abusar
Needles: 11 and 10

It is so flattering and comfortable. It has also restored my faith in my ability to knit garments.

It hasn't all been knitting here, either. Here is the first doll of 2011.

He is made from a new pattern I designed and a sweet 9" tall. His jammy pants are upcycled from an old button down and his shirt is flannel. I'm not 100% happy with his shirt, but overall I love him and plan on making some more. There are a lot of things happening in the doll department but they're not quite ready to be announced yet. Stay tuned...

Hello 2011!

2011-01-03T15:13:00.000-06:00

2010 went by so fast that I never got used to writing the date. December '09? Oh, wait, oops. I hope this next year feels more leisurely. I have some big plans and some small goals - get the house decorated more to my liking, get some muscle tone, and maybe get my little crafty business officially started.

Anyway, back in the old '10, I knit a scarf that I have been affectionately calling my buttered kittens scarf. No worries, neither kittens nor butter were harmed in its creation but an alpaca or two might have been a inconvenienced. Wanna see it?

Pattern: Big Lace Scarf from More Last Minute Knitted Gifts

Yarn: Cascade Baby Alpaca Chunky, color 562 (2 skeins)

Needles: size 15 (which makes me feel like I'm knitting with someone else's arms!)

Rarely will I buy the whole book for just one pattern, but the yarn was such a perfect match and I enjoyed the first Last Minute Knitted Gifts so much, it had to be done. It also looks quite nice with my heathered gray winter coat.

Santa was good to me this year and many of my crafting dreams came true, including a new sewing machine! Let the 2011 creations commence!

Santa's Workshop

2010-12-23T11:18:00.001-06:00

The tree is trimmed, Ben's big gift has been painted and assembled, candy has been made, grinches have been appeased, new stockings added, knitting indulged in, and as always, some silliness!

Now the only thing left to do is sit back and enjoy these few anticipatory days, Christmas itself, and family! Oh, and laundry of course. No matter how hard I try, there is always laundry to do.

I hope everyone has a happy holiday!

Dimples and Freckles

2010-12-05T14:26:00.000-06:00

Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows!

2010-11-16T14:17:00.001-06:00

Looks good, doesn't it? I had the marvelous good fortune to go to a sneak preview last night (thanks again Tiffany!) and it is every bit as good as I had hoped. I really want to read the last book again and then watch the movie again.
Also, I think it is worth going to see it in the theater. You need a big screen and surround for maximum immersion into the wizard world.
So on Thursday or whenever it comes out in your neck of the woods, get ye to a theater! It's worth waiting in line for and I don't know how I'm going to wait a year for part two!

My First Customs - Complete!

2010-11-01T13:48:00.006-05:00

In between wrangling my 11 month old cow (cutest costume ever, I tell ya!) and handing out candy to the neighborhood kids, and I put the finishing touches on my first custom order over the weekend. An old childhood friend was kind enough to be my guinea pig and ordered dolls for her daughter and niece.

And because the first thing anyone ever does when handed a doll is look to see what's going on under her dress...

...coordinating modesty shorts. You know, so they can do cartwheels and still be ladies. :)

M is for Mess

2010-10-21T13:17:00.000-05:00

I am excited to be working on not one, not two, but three custom dolls right now! There is doll debris all over my "studio" - it's a happy mess.

I've always been a firm believer that you need a little chaos to be creative. It's never really bothered me to work out of piles, some fabric over here, floss over there...as long as no one moves my stuff, it falls into its own natural order.

I wish I could take a sunny view of the piles of laundry and dishes and toys that exist outside of my little work area. Raising a kid is a creative process too, right?

Why I Can't Make Mom Friends

2010-10-14T14:00:00.000-05:00

This is genius. There is nothing funnier than the truth, is there?
And in case anyone is curious, I am the mom who has hobbies and whose kid wears disposables.

Ever Wondered?

2010-10-12T22:58:00.000-05:00

Have you ever wondered what two pounds of wool batting looks like laid out on a kitchen table in the morning sun? No? Me neither, but as it turns out, it's a rather beautiful sight to behold.

If clouds were made out of sheep, they would look something like this.

I've Been Busy

2010-10-04T11:52:00.000-05:00

*busy making babies*

I am selling at my first ever craft fair next weekend! I am very excited and very nervous. What if everyone laughs at me? It's junior high all over again, really. In addition to a pile of sweet little star babies, I will be selling the ribbon wands and pinwheels from the previous post. The fair is part of a neighborhood festival, and I'm not sure what to expect. I think if I break even, I'll be really happy. If I actually make some money, I'll be deliriously excited. And then I'll go buy some boots.

AND speaking of excited, my supplies have arrived for my first custom order!

The View From My Window...

2010-09-06T15:46:00.000-05:00

...makes me happy!

Star Baby

2010-08-31T10:32:00.000-05:00

My doll-making saga continues with this little Star Baby. Designed for the younger set, she is machine washable! She breaks with Waldorf tradition in that the materials used are not 100% natural, but this was step one in an experiment in combining wash-ability with traditional looks.

I love handmade and natural toys, but let's be honest here. Babies are messy and moms are busy. Handwashing and real life are mutually exclusive in my house and I'm betting yours, too. When I look to buy something for Ben, it needs to be safe, age-appropriate, and easily cleaned.

So, after surviving a trip through the washing machine and dryer, she is off to a new home!

Waldorf - Inspired Doll Take 2

2010-08-16T11:20:00.000-05:00

Taller but daintier than her older brother, and sewing-wise, this little girl is a vast improvement on my first attempt. She's a full 12 inches tall, made from a pattern I drafted. Her hair is 100% sport weight alpaca and is so soft! I had an easier time on the eyes this go-around too, but they're still not quite where I want them to be.

Making doll clothes without a real pattern tries my patience severely, so I kept it simple. Once I settle on a body pattern I'm 100% happy with, I'll officially draft more sophisticated clothing. I made her for a friend of a friend that is having a little girl in September. They have a bumblebee theme going and I just happened to have some bee fabric scraps leftover from the Loose Change Quilt I made a couple of years ago.

*I'm slowly making a doll army*

Sneak Peak

2010-08-15T16:49:00.002-05:00

My First Waldorf - Inspired Doll

2010-08-05T16:53:00.000-05:00

*What's up?*

I made this little guy for my son after coming across Waldorf dolls while I was searching for safe, non-toxic baby toys.

(Side Note: My personal crazy is worrying about toxic toys and house cleaners. I have a theory that China is slowly trying to take over the West by giving our children toys with heavy metals. Again, this is just my own personal crazy, no need to comment.)

Ben likes him, he started waving at him when he was just a head. He likes to play with him, but the last time he did, he pulled out a few strands of the hair that I spent so much time carefully tacking down. So, the little guy is on the shelf for now. (I guess I'm one of those moms.)

The pattern I used for the body can be found here. Everything said and done, the doll is 11'' tall.

The t-shirt was made from this pattern.

The pants I made on my own, that pattern needs work.

This website has the best list of doll-making resources that I've seen out there.

*Goodbye!*

Toilet Paper Rolls and Hot Glue

2010-08-01T09:39:00.000-05:00

I made this dahlia-esque wall decoration using this tutorial. I saved toilet paper rolls for a couple of months, cut them and my finger up with a rotary cutter, and glued them all together. Volia! In one measly nap time, I actually accomplished something creative.

I hung it in my downstairs bathroom, fitting, no?

It could stand a coat of spray paint because up close its humble origins are evident. From a distance though, I think it could pass as some over-priced decor from Anthropologie.

If I Had a Million Dollars...

2010-07-15T14:53:00.000-05:00

I would buy this farm.

Actually, I only need $ 595,000 plus closing costs. And some money to get alpacas and such. Anyone want to help a city girl realize her fiber farm dreams? I'll let you make a reality tv show out of it.

"Glee" in Real Life - My Kid's Summer Mix Tape

2010-06-18T14:46:00.005-05:00

Kids' music is pretty terrible. I gave the Wiggles a shot one day and I didn't even make through one song. The lyrics were something like "Fruit salad, yummy yummy, fruit salad yummy!". Is that anyway to teach the beauty of the English language and the power of song?

Ben loves being sung to and we recently signed up for a music class. (Does a 7 month old need a formal music class? No. Does mom need to get out the house? Yes.) The research-based fancy-schmancy music class songs are definitely a cut above the Wiggles, and I can make it through the CD a couple of times, but there's only so much I can take.

With that being said and a summer road trip coming up, it's mix tape time. Here are my picks for a playlist that everyone can enjoy.

Paul Simon - Loves Me Like a Rock
The Beatles - Twist and Shout
Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros - Home (does have the word "ass" in it once)
The Be Good Tanyas - The Littlest Birds
The White Stripes - We're Going to be Friends
Dave Matthews Band - So Much to Say
Collective Soul - Shine
Bob Marley & the Wailers - Three Little Birds
Cab Calloway - Hi De Ho Man (Ben has loved this since he was 3 months old)
Feist - 1,2,3,4
Bobby McFerrin - Don't Worry, be Happy

Please send me your suggestions!

Found this during my blog ramblings today. These kids look so happy, confident and engaged and their teacher seems really amazing. From what I can tell from watching their videos, these kids are 5th / 6th grade. Look how many boys there are! Look how they are all participating! If you search "PS22 chorus" on YouTube, you can see all of their great work covering pop songs.

Whimsy Tree

2010-06-17T13:22:00.002-05:00

It is too hot to knit. Not even the siren song of my KSD cashmere sock yarn can entice me to pick up the sticks. I've been really inspired by all of the embroidery posted over at Feeling Stitchy, so I decided to do some of my own.

I sketched out the trunk and branches and did the leaves freehand. The fabric is some old velvet I've had in the stash forever.

It's by no means perfect, but I'm pretty pleased with my first embroidery effort in years. Perhaps there are some pillow cases or tea towels in my future.

Happy Tag Blanket

2010-06-01T14:40:00.004-05:00

This blanket makes me happy- it was fast, easy, and fun. I used this tutorial I found on Craftzine.

My modifications: I didn't use an existing blanket, I just bought a yard of each of the fabrics. The ribbons are spaced 2 inches apart, and 2 inches from the corners. I did two rows of top-stitching. It is about 36" x 42".

The fabric is from JoAnn's. The green and white fabric is some basic nursery flannel and the dinos are just regular quilt cotton. The ribbons have been amassed over time. It was a great way to use the "scrapbooking" ribbons I got from the dollar section at Target.

Ben seems to enjoy it, which is all I can really ask for. He tested out the ribbons for it yesterday.*What if the baby gets in the ribbon drawer?*

Works in Progress

2010-05-31T17:42:00.003-05:00

My brain is moving faster than my hands right now. Why is it so much fun to start a project, but not so much fun to finish it?

A Little Eye Candy

2010-05-22T13:10:00.004-05:00

Last week, the Renegade Craft Fair was even more awesome than expected. It was crafty sensory overload - there are so many talented and creative people out there!
I could have easily spent multiple paychecks on all the goodies, but I ended up only getting a skein of sock yarn and a pair of earrings.

The yarn is from Kitchen Sink Dyeworks. It is the luxe merino fine cashmere blend in the colorway "Irie". I'm currently searching for the perfect sock pattern for it.

I forgot to take a picture of the earrings and I forget which vendor i bought them from. Oops.

There was a lot of inspiration to be had and my friend Tiffany got some great ideas for adorable baby onsies. They can be made in a single nap time! That's like crafting at the speed of light!

Renegade Craft Fair!

2010-05-08T18:28:00.003-05:00

I am so excited!

Easter Baskets!

2010-04-05T20:27:00.004-05:00

Easter dinner at my house was a success! The emergency can of icing and the M&M's salvaged the cake, my dad stepped in to make the traditional pea salad (so traditional that there's no written recipe anywhere) and there were enough solid nap times in the previous weeks for me to make little Easter baskets.

I used a tutorial I stumbled upon on one of the AlphaMom blogs via Craftzine. I can't find it again, but the process is very simple.

1. Mix equal parts clear Elmer's glue (I found it at Micheal's) and water.
2. Shred paper. I used brown paper bags and cute gift bags I got on super sale at Target.
3. Cover a bowl or something to use as the mold with plastic wrap. If you use something made out of glass, you'll have to pour a little vegetable oil down the side of the mold between the plastic wrap and the glass to get it to slip off. I forgot that cling wrap clings, and freaked out a little until I figured this trick out.
4. Dip handfuls of the shredded paper into the glue mixture and apply to the mold, like paper mache.
5. Enjoy the goopy, silly, messiness of it all.
6. Wait about 24 hours before trying to remove your nest/basket

Good Friday, Bad Cake

2010-04-02T16:45:00.005-05:00

For Lent this year, I gave up sweets. I know that seems rather childish, but since my third trimester, I've developed a vicious sweet tooth. This has not been an easy 40 days.

So you see why I've been fantasizing about the Perfect Cake. My family and friends are seated around our dining room table, having just finished enjoying our first big family holiday meal to be celebrated in our new house. Everyone did save a little room for dessert, though, and out I walk with the Perfect Cake. It's a white cake, light and fluffy like the clouds angels sleep on. It has a raspberry jam filling and is covered with a smooth, pristine layer of vanilla icing. It's a cake to celebrate the end of dark times, the miracle of resurrection. It's a cake of grace and hope.

I am no celebrity chef by any means, but a cake, I've made cakes before. Why did it have to go so horribly wrong?

My husband is out getting more icing to try to make it look somewhat appetizing. Another can of icing and a bag of pastel M&M will salvage it, right?

At least my yarn came today.

*remember when it was all about the yarn pr0n?*

Spring has Sprung!

2010-03-28T18:25:00.003-05:00

*the first ranunculus*

*the mystery plants in the front yard turned out to be lovely white irises*

*and soon, fresh paint*

Handmade Baby Sling

2010-03-19T10:04:00.003-05:00

I made this sling using these instructions from the Maya Wrap website. I really appreciate that they provide them. I couldn't justify spending the money on one of their slings because I didn't know if I would like using it or not. I made mine for 15 dollars. While it is not perfect, it is comfortable and useful. If/when it wears out, I would probably just buy a real Maya Wrap.

The fabric is from Hancock Fabrics and I bought the rings at slingring.com.

*no, he is not Conan O'Brien's illegitimate son*

One of the advantages of a home made sling is that it won't be recalled. One of the disadvantages is, well, that it won't be recalled. I was very careful with my stitching and tested it with cans before I put him in it. Even before the CPSC warnings about baby slings came out, I've been careful to make sure his face is always uncovered and I usually wrap the tail around the rings so his head won't bump against them.

I don't know if baby wearing will really make him a smarter, more confident child, but it is definitely convenient and sometimes soothes him well.

Baby Knits in Action

2010-02-10T15:14:00.003-06:00

Nautie, aka the cuddlefish being...cuddled.

The earflap hat fits now...and not a moment too soon since it SNOWED today.

Book a Month in 2010!

2010-02-03T14:21:00.004-06:00

I love New Year's resolutions. They're like makeovers. They're irresistible.
"I am going to make a sweeping change that will drastically improve ______". This year, I would like to drastically improve my brain.
Pregnancy rendered me incapable of completing a thought. Mommyhood has me speaking Parentese more than English - and I teach English as a second language for a living.

So, this year, I will read a new book a month. Books I've read in the past can't be re-read, but other works by previously read authors are acceptable.

I started with The Tipping Point by Malcom Gladwell.

This is technically my buffer book, since I started it in December and finished it in very early January. (Yes, buffer books are allowed, I'm not going to set myself up for failure.) I live in a house divided over fiction and non-fiction. This was my husband's book that I picked up while nursing and I couldn't put it down.

It is a fascinating look at what causes trends, epidemics, and other large scale changes in our world. The book is written in a very accessible style and Gladwell illustrates his point with intriguing real world examples, like the story of Sesame Street's success or how STDs spread through cities.
Even though I finished it a month ago, I find myself still thinking about it. Which, with so many grabs for my attention these days, I find that a high compliment.

The official selection for January was The Mysteries of Pittsburgh by Michael Chabon. I picked it because it was on an endcap near the cash register at B&N and I read a couple of pages while waiting to check out. (Clearly, my book choices are well researched. Does reading a book just because it's there make me a book slut? I digress.)

This is Chabon's first novel. On the cover, someone makes a bold statement comparing it to The Catcher in the Rye. Ordinarily, such claims would cause me to roll my eyes and move on, but I'd already read a few pages, and you know, it was...there. And, I've read two other Chabon books and enjoyed them thoroughly so I figured I'd overlook the Catcher in the Rye thing and give it a shot.

I'm glad I did. The writing is beautiful. It's the kind of writing you want to lose a Saturday to. Unfortunately, I never got to do that, but I did finish before the end of January.

It's an unique coming of age story that I didn't identify at all with. Our protagonist is a recent college grad, circa the late 80's. He's staring down some huge coming of age questions, such as, "How do I reconcile my childhood with what I want my adulthood to be? What do I want my adulthood to be? Do I like girls or boys?"

In the late 80's I was first grade girl who liked a particular big-eared boy in her Sunday school class. In college, I was a philosophy minor so by the time I graduated I was over the whole meaning of life thing. The drinking though, I could identify with the drinking in the book.

While I was reading, I kept thinking that The Mysteries of Pittsburgh would make a great movie. Lo and behold, someone beat me to it and it came out on the big screen in 2008.

I haven't seen the movie version, but from the trailer it looks like the original story has been heavily reworked. Have to be honest, I doubt I will rent it.

If you've made it this far, congratulations. It's been a long post. But it's been a while and the baby was asleep, so I sized the moment. I hope everyone else's resolutions are going as enjoyably as mine!

2009 Projects in Review

2010-01-03T09:55:00.002-06:00

Things I've learned from this last year of craft:

1. I always think green is my favorite color, but clearly blue and red were in 2009.
2. I like to keep extremities warm.
3. Needle felting is fun, I should pick that up again.
4. Do I like to make toys? Yes, I do.
5. Making a person is the best craft of all!

The Evolution of the Hipster

2009-12-13T16:35:00.001-06:00

from paste magazine

The neglected to mention that if you were a hipster girl in 2005, you were learning how to knit. They do get half credit for having the model wear what looks like a hand knit scarf.

Baby Benji Beanie

2009-12-11T16:11:00.004-06:00

Pattern: Baby Beanie (ravelry link)
Yarn: Malabrigo Sock
Needles: size 2

This was a cute, easy pattern, just right for full term preggo/new mommy brain. I really wanted to finish it before he was born, but he came 4 days earlier than predicted. A friend and fellow knitter was coming to meet him so I HAD to finish it.

How is that more motivation than the birth of my first child? Re: Ben can't yet discuss the pros and cons of various sock yarns.

But he looks so cute wearing them that this will not be the last knitted hat he is subjected to wear!

Happy Birthday, Baby!

2009-12-01T13:12:00.004-06:00

Baby Benjamin

Our little boy is here! After 19 hours of labor (I went natural!), he finally made his way into the world. He weighed 7 lbs. 14 oz. at birth. Now here we are two weeks later, and the little chunker in my lap is 9 lbs.! He can already wear the next size in diapers and has grown out of some of his newborn clothes.

We had a little scare with severe jaundice that ended us up back in the hospital on bili lights. We were fortunate to be able to room-in together so I was able to continue to breastfeed. We are all home, healthy and happy now.

Baby crafting posts, commence!

Cuddlefish, aka Nautie from Knitty

2009-10-23T17:28:00.002-05:00

Pattern: Nautie from Knitty.com (free!)
Yarn: O-wool Balance (in my top 5 favorite yarns of all time!)
Needles: size 6
Made for: My baby-to-be (about a month away!)

This was a fun and weird knit. I like making toys...there's also a Mr. Dangly 2.0 waiting in the wings for his photo shoot.
I don't have all that much to say about this project. It wasn't boring, wasn't too hard, and make people laugh. All in all a good deal. Also, my poor future son will realize that that his mom has always been a little odd early on. : )

Hopefully I will get my other creations blogged about and current projects finished before d-day. Only a month left!

Baby Earflap Hat

2009-08-31T17:13:00.005-05:00

Pattern: Baby / Kid's Earflap Hat (infant size)
Yarn: Jo-Ann Sensations Soles and More
Needles: size 2
Made for: baby - to - be, modeled by the ever adorable Baby Chris

I made this for my little one due in November, but I made it infant size since baby sizing seems to be all over the place and they grow so quickly. But, it fits my 6 month old nephew (who is in size 9-12 month clothing). There's no way my kiddo will be that big by February, which is the last month cold enough for a hat in Texas.

Luckily, the pattern is a fun, quick knit and I have plenty of yarn leftover. I did increase the stitch count by 50% because I didn't get gauge. Why bother knitting a bunch of swatches when you can do math? And then have your sweet and patient husband correct it?

Hello World...

2009-08-24T11:10:00.004-05:00

...it's been a while. I have two excuses. One, as evidenced above, I am with child. A sacred vessel. My eggo is preggo!
This picture was taken soon after we found out the gender, at about 5 months. I hit the 7 month mark this week. I haven't been able to see my feet for a while.

Excuse number 2! We bought and moved into our first home earlier this summer. Owning a home is a lot of work. If it wasn't the hot water heater going out, it was the AC. Or the brand new dryer (I'm glaring at you, Maytag). Ah, the joys of home ownership. Why is it that whenever you mention a problem you're having with your house, someone says that to you? It's infuriating.

So, between sitting on hold with warranty departments, incubating a tiny person and being pregnant though one of the hottest summers on record, I haven't had much time or energy left to blog. I have some things to say now, though, and some crafts to post about, so I am more or less back in the blogging game again!

Yeasayer

2009-04-21T16:19:00.002-05:00

Yeasayer on MySpace

My little sister got my hooked on this band.They have a unique, upbeat sound...the music is very textural.If you like Polyphonic Spree, Sigur Ros, or even Led Zepplin, Yeasayer is definitely worth a listen. I'm hoping Pandora picks up on them soon.

Right now, you can check out the site and get the albums here.

Like Roadkill, Possibly

2009-04-20T16:38:00.005-05:00

*bleh*

My crafting mojo has disappeared. I've been trying to finish the blue deer above for quite some time. Then there's the half quilted quilt...anyway, there have been a lot of good, happy and exciting things going on in my personal life. They have sort of sucked my energy away, so when I have a free moment, I turn to Lexulous or staring vacantly at the wall to unwind. The muse has left the room, but I hope he returns soon.

What do you do when you need to get the creative juices flowing again?

*Jenny Hart is so cool*

In other news, I went to the SXSW Craftster party with my friend Tiffany back in March. It was good times! I got to meet Jenny Hart, the brain behind Sublime Stitching. She is very sweet in person. Tiffany shared the secret code word with me, so I scored a free pattern.

I definately want to embroider the "Hi, how are you?" alien on a onsie. One day...when the crafting mojo flows again...

Where the Wild Things Are

2009-03-27T10:52:00.003-05:00

*see the trailer here*

...and, yeah, that is Arcade Fire. The Yeah Yeah Yeahs are supposedly doing some work on the score too. I'm so excited!

Donyale Socks

2009-03-25T13:20:00.003-05:00

Pattern: Donyale Socks, by Black Dog Designs
Yarn: Malabrigo Sock in Tizano red
Needles: size 1

Quite obviously, these socks aren't on target. The first one I knit (started before Thanksgiving) it too tight and too short. The other one is almost too lose but I think the length is perfect. Both legs have the same number of pattern repeats. oh, and I increased the CO number to 65 to accommodate my large-ish feet.

This odd couple is not the pattern's fault. The pattern is beautiful and easy to memorize. I think I must have been stressed out while knitting the first sock. The yarn is also beautiful - too beautiful to waste on this little disaster.

*Ah, what might have been*

Catching up

2009-03-12T16:10:00.003-05:00

First off, Tasha was kind enough to bestow upon me a Kreativ Blogger award. I've never gotten any kind of blogging award before. I'm just happy when I get more than two hits a week. Thanks Tasha!

I've been busy with real life non-bloggable things. Spring is a busy time. I'm almost done with a sock, I have a headless felted deer, and a quilt that needs binding. My Spring Break starts at 4 pm tomorrow so hopefully I can wrap these projects up in the next week.

We gave up drinking for Lent. It's ruined our social life. I never realized how much of our entertainment involves beer. So the friends have stopped calling and we don't invite anyone out since it's weird to invite someone to a bar and then not drink.
The not drinking thing isn't bad. I miss the bottle of wine we usually have Sunday nights and I miss our partying friends, but other than that, it's not as big of a deal as I thought it would be.

My birthday is Sunday. Ides of March, take that Julius Cesar! I am offically in my late twenties. We're going to have a nice fancy dinner at one of my favorite restaurants (sans wine, darn). Hopefully there will be some double chocolate brownies involved.
My birthday is always during Lent, Spring Break, and SXSW. There's a lot of fun stuff going on, but not usually many people around for a party. Or, they've given up drinking, brownies and parties.

* chris III was bored by this post*

More Mits and Felting

2009-02-27T09:28:00.004-06:00

My sister flew in from California last weekend to see the baby and surprise the family. I was the only one who knew and I was very excited since I only got to see her for a couple of days over Christmas.
What does this have to do with fingerless mits and a tiny bluebird? Everything.

My sister is a musician and plays a lot at the local farmer's market. I gave her the Wiggle Mits as part of Christmas gift and she'd mentioned how much she likes to wear them while she plays (violin, cello, you name it, she's super talented). It's still chilly up there, so I decided to whip her up another pair.

The yarn is Debbie Mumm Traditions and very soft.
I think I used size 8 needles, knit what was basically a rectangular swatch and then seamed it up, leaving a hole for the thumb. Easy-peasy. If had I been thinking, I would have done a provisional cast-on and then kitchner stitched the sides. oh well, I think they still look good.

Now, the bluebird is her idea. I showed her how to needle felt and she made a really cute flower which was immeaditly made into a hair clip. Then it was decided a tiny bird would also make a really cute hairclip.

It only took about 30 minutes to make him and I think he's pretty darn cute. I've gotten the hang of needle felting finally and started another four-legged creature (not a giraffe).

Mr. Dangly in the Wild

2009-02-24T16:44:00.003-06:00

Back in January, I gave Mr. Dangly to my then-yet-to-be-born nephew. Unfortunately, he went a little crazy with his freedom...when he auditioned to be Chris III's favorite monkey, he only proved that he would be a bad influence, at least until little C turns 21.

Welcome to the World, Little One!

2009-02-23T09:39:00.003-06:00

I'm happy to announce the birth of my nephew, Chris the third!
He was born on Friday the 13th (just missed being a Valentine's baby by an hour); he clocked in at 6 pounds, 11 ounces and 19 inches long.

He, my brother and my sister-in-law are healthy and happy. They are going to be great parents. I was really impressed by how calm and confident they are taking care of him. And I appreciate that they lets us all hold him as much as we liked.

He's the first baby in our family. My parents are thrilled at becoming grandparents and my sisters and I couldn't be prouder aunts.

It was neat to see him and recognize his features from both of our families. He's got his mom's nose and chin and it looks like he'll have blue eyes like my brother. He's got long fingers and feet like my dad. And, although I wasn't able to get a picture, he's got a dimple like people on both sides of the family.

And clearly, he's already got a personality of his own. He was very patient with his aunts, uncles, and friends passing him around, making faces at him and generally loving him like crazy.

It was sad to say good bye to everyone, but hopefully we'll be able to see them again soon.

Songwriting Workshop with Okkervil River at the ABC

2009-02-19T18:10:00.004-06:00

The Austin Bat Cave is hosting a free songwriting workshop with Austin's own Okkervil River. The workshop is on March 1st from 2-4 pm. Students in 9th to 11th grade are welcome.

And although the workshop is free, space is limited. You can call 524-1489 or email austin bat cave at gmail dot com.

The Austin Bat Cave is a new non-profit bringing the model of San Francisco's
826 Valencia here to Austin.
Any donations to the ABC would be much appreciated!

Quarter to Noon - Women in Film International Showcase

2009-02-17T16:33:00.004-06:00

*smile and keep working*

Quarter to Noon, a short written and directed by Kat Candler and for which I did the production design, will screen at the Women in Film International Showcase in Dallas/Addison on March 8th. Woot!

This Here Giraffe

2009-02-09T14:42:00.002-06:00

Despite my initial misgivings about needle felting, I'm becoming a bit addicted to it. The gratification is so quick!
I re-tried making a giraffe and I'm really happy with the results. The other little guy is cute, but this one actually looks like a giraffe.

He doesn't have a face because I couldn't decide what color to use for his features and the blank stare has grown on me.

I guess giraffes are my animal. Some people prefer penguins or koalas or turtles or whatever, but I've grown fond of these silly things. I blame Jason Polan.
This isn't to say I want to collect figurines, wear giraffe print socks, or redecorate my house in a giraffe safari theme.

But I might want to make a small herd of these...

St. Nick at SXSW

2009-02-06T11:52:00.003-06:00

ST. NICK trailer from ST NICK on Vimeo.

*The adventures of a borther and sister, trying to survive, all on their own, out on the plains of Texas*

One of my talented and awesome movie making friends, David Lowery, had his film accepted into South by Southwest! St. Nick is his first feature length film, so the acceptance is doubly impressive. I haven't seen anything but the trailer, but I'm sure it holds true to his other work. Thoughtful, original, and a little dark. Good stuff. I wish I could make it to the screening - if you are going, make sure you put St. Nick on your list.

Not Quite Weekend Knitting

2009-02-05T11:32:00.003-06:00

Pattern: Fluffy Lace Camisole and Pull-Off Cowl (just the cowl)
Yarn: Elann Super Kydd
Needles: size 10

I've been really happy with most of my projects lately; this is not one of them. The first beef I have is that it took me over a week to just make the cowl. I guess if you have the time and stamina to knit non-stop for two days you could maybe complete both pieces.
The second beef is the size. I think it's too big. Had I cast on fewer stitches than the recommended 133, it wouldn't be so droopy. I'm not going to block it for fear it might become even larger.

*it seems to also make my neck look alien skinny*

I can kinda tuck it around and wear it with my coat. It is pretty warm and I think the blue looks nice with the grey, so I won't count this project as a total wash.

When to Quit

2009-02-02T17:20:00.003-06:00

It's been said that a mark of being a great artist is knowing when to quit. I make no pretensions of being a great artist, but I think knowing when to quit is a good skill for any creative endeavor. Right up there with "Keep it simple, stupid.
I had a little more fun felting this weekend and attempted to make the giraffe from Wool Pets. The book had to go back to the library before I finished him, so some of his parts have been guesstimated.
Clearly, he is still a work in progress, but how much more progress? I kinda like him how he is, even though his exact place in the animal kingdom looks a bit ambiguous right now.

How far should I go? full spots? a face? is he sweet enough? Your thoughts.

Brad Sucks

2009-01-23T08:30:00.000-06:00

*the website*

This is the latest song to be stuck in my head. I first heard it on Pandora and went slowly crazy until I was able to figure out who the artist was.
Some of his other songs, particularly "Borderline" (below), reminds me of earlier Beck.

Can ya tell one of my resolutions for '09 is to be more open to new music? So far, so good.

I also kinda want to induldge my inner hipster and by a shirt. Nothing says "I'm cooler than you" than an obscure band shirt, right? ; )

Felted Chicken...Yup.

2009-01-22T09:00:00.000-06:00

Crafting is always comforting to me. So is stabbing things with barbed needles. Well, by things I mean roving. I had a ton of it left over after decorating the Kandinsky slippers so I decided to put it to a more sculptural use.

I've been occasionally interested in learning needle felting ever since Alice of Katherine Ivy sent me Rupert as part of a Forest Friends swap on Craftster. Years later, I have finally gotten around to it. I checked out Wool Pets from the library and bought the stabby needles. There are a ton of cute ideas and each step is shown in photographs. I started with the chicken first since a friend and I are planning on getting a live one soon (more on that later).

The nameless chicken isn't proportioned correctly. His head is too big and causes him to fall forward on his little wire legs. I always have unreasonable expectations when I learn something new. I think "Maybe this will be the thing that I am excellent at. All this time, my true, hidden, and world changing talent will be this new thing.". I'm not delusional. I know that the first time you try something, it's usually not perfect.

And I have to say, I'm kind of relieved that my one true world-changing talent is not making felted animals. Now I can hold out for something a little cooler. If you want to see cool needle felted pets, check this out. You can have your pet made into a little felt miniature. You can even have it done using their own fur. Personally, I am kind of grossed out by that, but to each their own.

Sign of the Times

2009-01-21T15:29:00.001-06:00

Today I saw a man fishing in our dumpster. With a fishing pole. I'm pretty sure it had a magnet on the end and I assume he was looking for metal he could turn in for cash.

While we don't live in a bad part of town, there are always a few homeless-looking types near the major intersection. That's where the bus stops are and there's a gas station and a small shopping center so there are decent places to loiter I suppose. Austin has a large and visible homeless population but after living here a year I've come to think of it as normal. Not a happy part of normal, but a reality of the situation here.

There seem to be an increasing number of dumpster divers and transients around our apartment complex. We've gotten a few notices from the office reminding us not to leave valuables in our cars, lock our windows and report anything suspicious. Again, we live in a nice part of town. I've never felt threatened by anyone around here but now I can't help but feel a small twinge of anxiety when I'm out in the parking lot and see someone who doesn't look like a neighbor.

I teared up watching the inauguration yesterday. Obama's message of hope combined with a clear headed acknowledgment of the rough situation many citizens are facing inspire a true feeling of hope within me in a big picture way.

But in my day-to-day life, I carry a quiet burden of fear. I've grown out of my teenage feeling of invincibility; I have become acutely aware how we are all a major disaster or tragedy from completely changing our life as we know it. I fear for my safety and that of those around me.

The best I can do is keep my head up, count my blessings, and trust that everything will be ok in the end.

Mnolo - Collagist

2009-01-15T17:13:00.000-06:00

Back in the day, the KTSW days to be exact, I worked with this guy named Manny in the production department. He always made really creative, technically and sonically awesome station promos/sound beds/PSAs...everything he worked on sounded professional.

These days, he owns an independent record label and multimedia production studio and is an electronic music producer.

He just released a new album called Collagist and it's available for free on his website. He collaborated with a ton of talented musicians; each track seamlessly combines his talent with theirs. A range of influences are woven through his music - Latin American beats, hip-hop and experimental electronica are the first that come to mind. One of my favorites songs, "Muse", is Portishead-esque.

It's an excellent album. I've never been hugely into electronica but Collagist is really accessible. The sound is not rave-tastic, it's not bizzare static and it's not redundant sampling. And, if you can't commit to a full download, you can preview a few songs here.

How to Make a Diaper Cake

2009-01-13T18:00:00.000-06:00

*make sure you have enough diapers to get the kid through college*

*roll them and tie them individually*

*then tie the tied ones together into a cake layer*

*decorate!*

I bought a pack of 258 diapers at Costco...as you can probably see, I didn't come close to using all of them. I really wanted to make a huge cake, but then I realized there was no way I would have enough ribbon to wrap it with and that I was going to have to road trip this thing up to Dallas, so I scaled it back and just gave them the 180 leftover diapers.

I went with the size two diapers (12-18 lbs) which is definitely bigger than newborn size, but everyone is predicting that the baby will be pretty big to begin with. I'm so excited to be an aunt again and can't wait until he's born!

It only took an afternoon to make and I think it came out really cute.

What my Dreams Sing

2009-01-12T08:36:00.000-06:00

I woke up this morning with this persistent beat and a line of song looping endlessly in my head. I typed in the lyrics my brain was singing into teh Google and was able to figure out that the song was "Kids" by MGMT.

Thank goodness. I really like the song and it got my morning off to an upbeat start. But if I hadn't been able to figure out what it was, I'd start developing an ego over the tiny talented electronica musician in my brain that creates awesome pop sings while I sleep. I'd start recording these things and releasing them to the public, only to be shamed to find out that I was actually a just poor copycat and there is no tiny musician in my brain, just that I've probably been taking too much allergy medicine.

While no one has discovered a homonuculus musician,
Radiolab did an episode about "Earworms" a while back...why songs get stuck in your head, people who hear music constantly...fascinating stuff. I <3 radiolab.

Kandinsky Inspired Slippers

2009-01-08T09:58:00.001-06:00

Pattern: Keep Away Slipper (ravelry, sorry)
Needles: 9 and 10
Yarn: Patton's Classic Merino, wool roving

Modifications:
I only increased up to 24sts, because a lot of people on ravelry mentioned that their slippers were turning out too large. @4 ended up being perfect. I also knit 5 rounds instead of 3 after turning the heel.

I used the Turkish cast on and knit in the round on two circulars. This tutorial was really helpful in casting on. I think both techniques are pretty cumbersome, but the nice thing about knitting with the intent to felt is that minor mistakes blend away. The increase lines on my toes had huge holes. I went back in and wove a strand of yarn through them before felting and they closed up with no problem, but I would never use this for non-felted socks.

This project was really an excuse to try my hand at some needle felting. The needle felting was fun and really easy. The only drawback is that my wrist and shoulder would ache after a while. But, like any good knitter, I would never let a little carpal tunnel stand in the way of getting a project done!

Miles and Miles of Squares

2008-12-31T17:05:00.000-06:00

Pattern: Sheep and Wool Hat
Needles: size 7 and 8
Yarns: GGH Campano (multi) and Plymouth Yarn Suri Merino (cream)

Modifications:
For the crown, I used the decrease style from Brooklyn Tweed’s Turn a Square Hat. I did double the decreases to make it more shallow. The only thing I wish I had done differently was pick 2 yarns closer in weight. Alas.

I really enjoyed knitting this. I've never done stranded knitting before, and I was surprised how easy it was. I don't think I'm ready to tackle some crazy 6 color sweater of a Nativity scene or anything, but I would like to make the Ode to Eames socks one day.

I've also never done a knitted hem before, but that went well also. It makes the hat very warm.

*mmm...hat guts*

I made this for my sister at her request and she says she likes it and that it matches her snowboarding jacket, hooray! I made two different sizes of optional pompoms to accommodate her level of whimsy at the moment.

*ignore the bizarre look of my shoulders. it's hard taking a picture of the top of your own head*

I have one more project I finished this 2008, but it's going to have to wait until '09 to be posted. Oh well, so it goes.

Happy New Year! My your 2009 be full of good cheer and fun projects!

1,000 Shades of Gray

2008-12-18T12:11:00.001-06:00

We awoke to a dense fog this morning. Heavier than any fog I've ever seen. These pictures were taken about and hour after I got up and it had lightened up a little.

I took Mr. W to work this morning and we went over an overpass where the visibility was so reduced that it looked like the road would end any second and we could see nothing but fog on either side. From a safety standpoint, it was pretty scary. From a cool standpoint, it was awesome in a sci-fi way. I really wish I had had my camera with me.

The weather was dreary yesterday too, but not nearly as interesting as the fog. It was more stir-crazy weather. Can you tell I've been a little bored? I'm loving the free time I have to craft right now, but you can only do so much.

Knitting Bag

2008-12-17T10:44:00.000-06:00

* how can I not make at least one gift?*

My 9 year old nice has started knitting. I taught her how to purl when I visited over Thanksgiving and she learned it easily. I'm really impressed with how quickly she can knit, especially since she uses really long straight needles. They reach from her fingertips to just past her elbows - forearm length needles.
Her yarn was all in a tangle too. It's hard to keep a yarn ball in neat order when you drag it around with you everywhere.

So I couldn't resist making her a knitting bag. Well, knitting backpack. I bought the bag pre-made at Joann's and stenciled it. I bought the star stencils, but I printed and cut out the stencils for the knitting skull and her name. (The weird snaky blur thing is her name I scribbled out in Photoshop for privacy.)

Her last birthday party theme was pink and black pirate skulls so hopefully she's still into it.

Growing up, I had a family member that I rarely saw and persisted in giving me ceramic carousel horses years after the very brief period in which I collected them was over. It's not the gift, of course, and as an adult I see that clearly. But I would like to give gifts that are thoughtful and relevant, even if I only get to see some members of my family once a year or so.

Also, I worry about being the crazy aunt giving homemade presents, but I think a homemade gift from one knitter to another is always welcome.

cout out and keep.net

2008-12-11T21:34:00.000-06:00

There's a new craft website in town - cutoutandkeep.net. It's another online craft community, but it's entirely devoted to free step-by-step tutorials. Ravelry and I have quite the love affair, and Craftster is great when you just want to aimlessly browse so I'm not quite sure how this new site will fit into my online craft community thing. (OMG I am such a nerd.) It seems like it will be a good resource and eaiser to navigate than Craftster. My sn on there is wagon full of stars.

House

2008-12-08T12:36:00.001-06:00

Mr. W and I have wanted to buy a house since last year. We occasionally break down and look at houses on Austin Home Search or Zillow even though we really won't be able to start looking for another 6 months or so. We got into a debate about what we would want in our perfect house. He wants a good kitchen and a comfortable living room. I want a sleeping porch and a tower, etc.

I had a bit of free time at school last Friday so I decided to design my perfect house. When you walk in, the room to the right is the living room. To the left is the dining room and from there you can walk into the kitchen, which is in the smaller brick tower. On top of it is the kitchen garden, where perfect tomatoes grow year-round. There's nothing like a really good tomato.

The next tower, the yellow one, has the library / studio and master suite. And, of course, the master bathroom has two sinks. The long, low part of the house is for the other four bedrooms. The roof is tin, so it sounds extra nice when it rains.

The taller brick tower has the lap pool on top and the garage on the bottom, with a little room below the pool with a changing area and dry sauna.

And you can't tell this from the drawing, but there is a courtyard in the middle and the sleeping porch in the back.

If anyone knows someone who works in daydream real estate, let me know :)

Colorless Green Mitts Breed Furiously

2008-12-02T08:36:00.000-06:00

I made these immediately after Fetching, but it's taken me a good long while to write this up. I made up this pattern sitting bored at school one day and I'm very happy with the results. I thought I would share it. It takes very little yarn, is quick, and could be a good gift knit. so, here ya go:

Wiggle Fingerless Mitts

Yarn: Worsted weight and soft. I used Berroco Ultra Alpaca. It took much less than one skein.
Needles: Size 6 dpns.

CO 44 sts an join rnd, careful not to twist
R1: (p1, k4) 4 times. p1. work in 1x1 rib, starting with a knit st, to the end of the round. Repeat this rnd 1 more time.

R3: ( p1,C4B, p1, k4) 2x. p1. work in 1x1 rib, starting with a knit st, to the end of the round.
R4: work the same as rnd 1.

R5: Work in cable panel pattern as follows:

1: (p1, k4, p1, C4F) 2x. p1. work rest of round in stockinette.
2: (p1, k4) 4 times. p1. work rest of round in stockinette.
3: (p1, C4B, p1, k4) 2x. p1. work rest of round in stockinette.
4: work same as round 2

Repeat these 4 rounds until you're ready to place the thumb. for me, that was at 4 inches.

Thumb: For the right hand, work across the cable panel. K2. Using waste yarn, k7; slip these sts back to left needle and k them again using working yarn. Continue working the rest of the round in pattern.

For the left hand, work the round you're on until 9 sts remain on the left needle. Using waste yarn, k7; slip these sts back to left needle and k them again using working yarn. K2.

After setting up to make the thumb, work in pattern for another 2 inches and BO. Almost done!

Finish the Thumb:
Remove the waste yarn and place resulting live sts on two double-point needles. There will be 7 sts below the opening and 6 sts above. Attach yarn and k the 7 sts on lower needle; using a second needle, pick up and k 2 sts (I wrap the picked up sts. to help avoid holes) in the space between the upper and lower needle, k first 3 sts from upper needle; using a third needle, k remaining 3 sts from upper needle and pick up (and wrap, if desired) and k 2 sts in space between this needle and lower needle. 17 sts.

K 4 rounds. BO and weave in ends.

Ta Da!

This is the first time I've ever written a pattern out, so please send me any corrections!

Around the Corner

2008-11-19T08:36:00.000-06:00

Ever since 9/11, Christmas has come earlier and earlier. Target started putting out decorations before Halloween. The retailers have learned to prey upon our emotions. Everyone is all down about the economy and Christmas cheers people up...until they realize they have no money. This season is supposed to be a big hit for retailers.

But it is Christmas (your whatever winter holiday you celebrate) and gifts will be given. I'm a fan of handmade items. I like supporting individual creativity and there are a lot of special, unique items. I've become addicted to Etsy...there are so many beautiful and affordable things. I've rounded up some of my favorite sellers to share today.

*from left to right*

*top row*

Tilly Bloom - Surreal jewelry and art
Joanna Rutter - Simple silver jewelry, mostly nature themed
Zygopsyche - Neat stuffed animals

John W Golden - Cute prints
Toy Breaker - "Ties that don't suck"
*bottom row*
MaryInk - Screen printed clothing and housewares
Bunny With A Tool Belt - Fine art sculptures
Revisions Design Studio - Neat housewares and jewelry
Blossom Toys - Adorable baby gifts
Luxedelxue - Beautiful jewelry. I've bought a necklace from here and it's very well made. Also, there's an under 20 dollar section with nice things.

**Also, there's a thing on Etsy called Alchemy. You can request custom items and designers will bid on making them for you. I've had good luck with this.

There's a Handmade Pledge website if you want to sign up or find more gift resources. I don't plan on buying handmade gifts for everyone so I'm not officially taking the pledge because I know I won't buy everything handmade, but will look to buy some things.

Shooting Weekend Number 2

2008-11-18T12:54:00.000-06:00

Despite the bitter cold, this weekend was a blast. Waking up at 5 am and working for 12 hours on the weekend isn't most people's idea of fun, but the awesome crew and script make it worth it.
Also, I don't get to see the sun rise often. It's not called the magic hour for nothing.

*This is less magical*

Did we encounter a fancy hobo tent? Nope. This little lean-to is something I helped put up to keep out the icy wind while we ate lunch on Saturday. Sunday was more pleasant.

The wind stopped and I got to be in the crew car for our mini car chase around the capital. It was really fun to see people on the street reacting to our "gang members" hanging out of their low rider screaming hilarious insults back at our main character. I think some people who didn't notice us following them with a camera were truly terrified and will tell their friends that Austin is going downhill.

We've got one more weekend to go. There will be more car action and hopefully more "freaking' out the squares" (as a friend used to say in high school).

In Defense of Food

2008-11-12T13:55:00.000-06:00

I highly recommend "In Defense of Food". It's fascinating and, I believe, will slightly rock your food world. It's a modern version of "The Jungle" but instead of uncovering horrible slaughterhouse conditions and lack of regulations, Pollan sheds light on the the underbelly of the food industry, the incredible influence of nutritional science on our food products and calls us out on our lackadaisical attitude toward food.

According to one statistic in the book, the food industry puts 17,000 new products on the market each year. That blew my mind. He also makes the interesting point that as a country, we are obsessed with our health but yet one of the most unhealthy populations in the world. He correlates the amount the average family spends on food (about 10 percent of their income) to how much they spend on health care (about 17 percent) and makes the case that if we spent more on better food, we would spend less at the doctors dealing with chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease.

The last third of the book is devoted to his personal opinions that he has formed after doing this research. Rather than being snobby and elitist, I found his his tone and "rules" to reasonable and pragmatic. Pollan recognizes that not everyone has access to or the ability to afford organic, locally grown food.

*I love me a good tomato*

We eat pretty well here. Mr. W is an excellent cook. I am a vegetarian and he only eats meat on his sandwiches and when we go out. But reading this book has made me hyper - aware of what I'm putting on my plate. I've been checking labels now and Pollan is right...it's pretty much impossible to find a boxed food item that doesn't have a dozen unpronounceable ingredients and a claim to protect against heart disease or cancer or whatever.

*The Chico, CA farmer's market rocks*

One of Pollan's recommendations is to circumvent the "food like items" that line the grocery store shelves and avoid the pitfalls to your health by buying quality over quantity.

I have a really hard time with this for some reason. I like to eat good food. I like to eat knowing that what I'm putting into my body is good for me. But I'm cheap. I love a good deal.
We have an ok farmer's market here (though nothing like the one my sister has in Chico). It is very expensive, sometimes twice what the grocery store charges.

We also have Greenling. For $35.00 a week, you can get a box of seasonal, locally grown produce delivered once a week. Again, expensive. We spend much less than that a week buying conventional produce that we pick out. You don't know what comes in the box. Apparently you get a lot of okra in the spring.

*lemon cucumbers from Chico*

Eat food. Not too much. Mostly Plants. I'm trying.

Sorry Jesus

2008-11-10T09:34:00.001-06:00

Instead of going to church on Sunday, I woke up at the crack of dawn to make a drug lab.
Oops.

Yes We Did!

2008-11-06T16:11:00.000-06:00

The Day Has Come...Almost

2008-11-01T12:41:00.000-05:00

And I'm not talking about election day, though the title is befitting of that as well. No! I am speaking of Malabrigo Sock yarn! The sock version of my most favorite yarn in the world! I just pre-ordered a skein from Webs. One day, one day in late November/December, this yarn will be mine at last! muhaha!

It was so very, very hard to pick just one...

My, Aren't you Fetching?

2008-10-29T16:58:00.000-05:00

*my goodness, my guinness!*

Pattern: Fetching
Yarn: Berroco Ultra Alpaca
Needles: Size 6 dpns

I heart this pattern for sure. Easy, quick, fun. I learned a lot of new things, and it's been awhile since I learned some new knitting tricks. I learned the cable cast - on, made cables and did a thumb gusset. Good times! I have also immediately displaced them. Opps.

I really like the Ultra Alpaca. Probably not the best choice to show off the cables, but it was in the stash and there's still enough left over to make another pair.

Maybe I will use it for my big seasonal project...or maybe it will fall by the wayside as I am tempted with more little things.

It's Cold!

2008-10-24T17:59:00.000-05:00

It officially got chilly yesterday. Time to get serious about the knitting. I'm working on another small project but sweater weather demands, well, a sweater. But which one? I've got four in mind. While I typically reside in a reality of my own design, I'm not delusional. I know I'm not going to make more than one. I might not even finish one. But, in my own reality I will, so I need to get going. Anyway!

Here are the contenders:

*The Minimalist*

Pros: I have the pattern, it's stylish, and looks really wearable.
Cons: It's a LOT of seed stitch

*Midnight Circular*

Pros: The back looks really neat and it's constructed in an unusual way.
Cons: I have to buy the pattern. Not entirely sure I would wear it.

*Modern Lace Henley*

Pros: The pattern is free. The lace looks interesting, and it seems to have a high amount of wearability.
Cons: It's listed as "Piquant" on Kinnty, and I'm not sure if I want something too hard. The lace is charted, which I've never done before and am intimidated by.

*Circular Shrug*

Pros: Free pattern. Looks fairly quick, opening up the possibility of making two larger things (delusional!) Could possibly add full sleeves.
Cons: No sleeves. Gauge instructions are vague.

Anyone want to help me make up my mind? I'm leaning towards the Midnight Circular. It looks comfy.

Tilty Quilt

2008-10-15T18:05:00.001-05:00

This is my new quilt project, the tilty quilt. I'm making it up as I go along...I'm not sure how I feel about the colors...on the one hand, it's autumnal. On the other, it's kind of rag bag 70's leftover hippie-ish. We'll see, I guess.

The leftover scraps are pretty.

Mr. Dangly

2008-10-09T18:00:00.000-05:00

Pattern: Mr. Dangly
Needles: size 6 dpns
Yarn: O-wool Balance in Graphite & Peridot

*this is how monkeys are made*

I love, love, love this pattern. Knitting everything in pieces makes it feel even faster than it already is. I modified it to knit in the round, so the only seaming I ended up doing was attaching everything. Speaking of, there are no real instructions for the part attachment. I winged it and hopefully the intended recipient won't quickly tear his head off.

*what up?*

I want to make more. Many, many more. A dangly army. It's an excellent stash buster. The yarn was left over from Turn a Square (about half a ball of each color). I used it almost all up - I didn't mind throwing away the little bit that was left.

And I've mentioned before, I love teh o-wool.

I've had good knitting luck lately...I htink I might press it by knitting something large (gasp!) and wearable (eeek!)

This is Awesome

2008-10-06T08:27:00.000-05:00

I just discovered a great, free video podcast. YOGAmazing comes in 25 minute sessions and each one is dedicated to a theme, like upper body strength or anxiety or even for gardeners (I haven't done the gardening one, so who knows what that's about).

It's taught by a real yoga instructor instead of some Hawaiian model. He actually holds the poses long enough to be worth it and he clearly describes and demonstrates everything. The only downside is that you have to sit through a commercial, but I think that's fair since they have to make money somehow.

I used to go to Joy Moves. It's a great studio with lots of class options and it's very affordable. Alas, we've moved and getting there to make a class de-motivates me. I think sitting in traffic each way would undo any benefit that I would have gotten.

October is "Alexis, take care of yourself month" and doing a little exercise was definitely on the list!