tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-130923392011-04-21T17:46:23.969-04:00A record of my knitting projects and events of my lifebarbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.comBlogger1031100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-44514115491868535252009-01-30T09:43:00.006-05:002009-02-24T13:41:18.241-05:00

There will be no photos for this post. The camera is in the desk drawer with dead batteries. Also, I have been very lax about photographing my knitting, so there probably aren't many pictures on the memory card anyway. I have done some knitting, let's see if I can remember what I did anyway.Sea Mist Mittens: stuck on the thumb of the first mitten. I simply haven't had the energy to figure out the

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-19783597868929149572008-12-09T09:08:00.013-05:002008-12-09T09:54:23.513-05:00

This is the second part of the Deep Creek Lake Saga. On Saturday afternoon we all went out to a local christmas tree farm to cut trees for my daughter's family and her in-laws, Bob and Mimi. We drove way up to the top of the distant hill you see here, where the "big" trees were.We tramped around the entire hill, so that daughter Chris could examine each and every tree to find the very best one.We

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-54855645878521969732008-12-02T10:00:00.014-05:002008-12-02T15:09:47.640-05:00

The day after Thanksgiving, we packed up two cars and my son, my brother, my parents, myself, and two dogs headed for Deep Creek Lake in western Maryland. The plan for the weekend was to relax and visit with my daughter, her husband and two children, and her in-laws Bob and Mimi. Not to forget Bob and Mimi's dog Skipper! So there were nine adults, two children, and three dogs in this 5 bedroom

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-18532364261324035262008-11-25T09:46:00.005-05:002008-11-25T10:30:05.603-05:00

Heh. I wonder if teachers still make school children write compositions on that topic? My vacation was a week off at home, spent with my dog and my parent's dog. My parents were vacationing in Mexico, so that's why their dog was with me. Perhaps they could write a more interesting post on the vacation topic, but afterall, it's my blog!Ok. Here's what I did:1. Finished the Old Navy Socks. This is

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-44319403266151966282008-11-05T08:59:00.005-05:002008-11-05T10:04:52.175-05:00

I woke up feeling much better about the world this morning, knowing that Barack Obama is our President-Elect. George Bush and the republican party have left this country in a terrible state. This isn't a political blog, so that's all I'll say about this. I'm also relieved that all the campaigning is over! Living in a "battle ground" state is not a lot fun. I am sick of negative ads or even more

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-14585944673851843412008-10-20T11:17:00.004-04:002008-10-20T12:02:07.348-04:00

It was such a beautiful weekend, crisp and cool, but sunny. The leaves are a bit past their best colors, but still pretty. Missy (my dog) and I enjoyed walks on both Saturday and Sunday. The last of the outside seasonal chores were done too. I took the birdhouse down for cleaning, turned off the water to the outside faucets and stored the hoses for the winter. The leaf sweeping is done by the

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-42341664000565150812008-10-10T08:51:00.004-04:002008-10-10T09:30:03.723-04:00

I finally got around to getting pictures of the finished Traveler's socks, though because I took them last night in artifical light, they are not great. Why is it that camera batteries die so quickly? Or is it maybe just my camera? It seems to me that they die even if you don't actually use the camera. I put new batteries in a couple weeks ago, took a few pictures of my grandchildren, and when I

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-74610108233268301112008-09-30T09:36:00.003-04:002008-09-30T10:18:41.977-04:00

This is, I guess, a divorce post. If there is such a thing. Last night I went to a Divorce Care support group at my church. I've been going to the support group for a while, this was my 5th session and it does seem to be helping. It's mostly women, but there are a few men who show up. Last night a man came to his first meeting. He introduced himself as Bill. The subject for the meeting

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-24920036449429091882008-09-05T12:44:00.003-04:002008-09-05T13:14:49.044-04:00

I have done some traveling this summer, first to Naples, Florida for a week in June and recently to Southern Pines, N. Carolina to attend the wedding of a good friend's son. These socks, however did not travel with me, as juggling three different color yarn skeins do not make for portable knitting! The pattern is Lucy Neatby's Traveler's Sock from the book Socks, Socks, Socks. I was in the mood

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-64713019029401612922008-09-04T09:32:00.004-04:002008-09-04T09:45:06.066-04:00

I feel like I can't (shouldn't?) post if I don't have some knitting to show. So, I finally do have something finished to talk about. These are the Child's First Socks. I liked the pattern, but the Paton's Kroy yarn won't ever be a favorite. It's not as soft as many sock yarns, and it splits, which is annoying.I have been doing some other knitting, but I'll save the pictures for a future post. Two

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-40974344438676608202008-06-09T17:31:00.003-04:002008-06-09T17:56:56.287-04:00

Well, yes. There's a discussion going on in the comments section on Crazy Aunt Purl's blog today. High gas prices, high food prices, worry, anxiety, stress--and someone always saying some variation of "it could be worse, you know". General consensus of those who commented was that although true, it really doesn't help alot of us feel better. I don't know. I think after what I've gone through in

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-52655758549866800952008-06-08T11:38:00.003-04:002008-12-11T17:46:32.984-05:00

I've finished the first sock of the Child's First Sock Pattern and made a start on the second. Not exactly speed knitting, but progress none the less. Hot weather has arrived in Northeast Ohio. We've gone from the 50's and 60's directly to the high 80's and low 90's. I had my air conditioning checked this week, and I have needed it since then. I had hoped for a couple weeks of temperate

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-75181682142853181082008-06-01T14:59:00.007-04:002008-12-11T17:46:33.148-05:00

I really didn't mean to abandon this blog. Life just overwhelmed me for awhile. I have been knitting--mostly socks, some mittens, and a couple of sweaters for the grandchildren.Just to catch up (if anyone cares)January 2007, unexpectedly sold the house in the city I lived in for 28 years.February 2007, began search for a condo.March 2007, bought condo in the countryside.April 2007, moved to condo

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1165945868623469102006-12-12T12:31:00.000-05:002006-12-12T12:58:16.933-05:00

Remember the hat I finished that looked bad on my head? Here it is on another head. And it does look much better.Want a closer look? I still need to buy a button to secure the flap. For now I just pinned it with a snowflake pin. Since I won't be wearing it, I haven't hustled out to get a button. I must do this, just in case I find someone who looks good in it. My daughter probably would, but she

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1165598973057301102006-12-08T11:49:00.000-05:002006-12-08T12:32:48.983-05:00

I finished the first chart repeat for the Superskunk Vest. But what I had knit so far just didn't look right. It didn't look like the size was right for a 4 year old. So I measured my gauge. It was way off! And I had swatched, and I was positive I hadn't changed my tension. I had a horrible thought--was I knitting with a size 3 needle? I did a quick check with my needle gauge and, uh oh, I was

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1165328133417063572006-12-05T08:52:00.000-05:002006-12-05T14:36:38.930-05:00

Well, not really. But you know, that kind of morning. Got out of bed reluctantly, due to staying up too late watching John Candy in Uncle Buck. I know, but it seemed quite funny, probably due to the Jamieson's on-the-rocks the Ex and I were drinking. He came over to help me put up the Christmas decorations. Anyway. The driveway had six inches of snow and the snow plow service I contract with was

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1164986908096982022006-12-01T10:12:00.000-05:002006-12-01T10:28:28.206-05:00

I'm off and knitting on Super Skunk. I have the checked bottom band done and the first few rows of the chart done. Here's a picture I scanned from the pattern book.It was black as pitch when I left the house this morning, so I didn't take a progress picture. There wasn't that much to photograph anyway.I'm really excited about this knitalong since I've never done steeking and some of the other

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1164903460238709072006-11-30T10:53:00.000-05:002006-11-30T11:17:40.320-05:00

I've been challenged and I've accepted! I've joined Stranded: The Colorwork Challenge.What are your projects for this knitalong?I've chosen "Super Skunk" from Alice Starmore's book, Pacific Coast Highway. It's a children's vest with a railroad theme, inspired by the steam locomotive in the Pacific Northwest called "Super Skunk". (I just googled "Super Skunk pattern" to see if I could find a

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1164736754906217312006-11-28T12:43:00.000-05:002006-11-28T12:59:14.983-05:00

I have done 8+ repeats of the zig-zag cable on the Forbes Forest Scarf and 14 repeats of the center cable (I forget what that one is called). I think of scarfs as a quick project, but this one is a lot of knitting. I think I have done as much knitting as would have for, say, the back of a sweater. I'm a bit more than 1/3 through--it's 21 zig-zag cable repeats long when finished. I also

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1164656245750867812006-11-27T14:21:00.000-05:002006-11-27T14:37:25.870-05:00

We had a very nice Thanksgiving at our house. The turkey and trimmings were successfully cooked and eaten and I think all the extended family in attendance enjoyed talking and exchanging news. I took only one picture, and that was of the table.It's good to have one day of the year to count your blessings. Here are mine, in no particular order.A family who loves meMy dog MissyI have a job (well,

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1164043872797624512006-11-20T12:04:00.000-05:002006-11-20T12:31:12.880-05:00

Knitting news first. I have finished the front of the Train Track vest. I have to wash and block it to match the back before I sew it together, but it is done. I'm working on the Forbes Forest scarf, as I'd like to finish that next. Then, who knows? The batteries to the camera need charging so no pictures today.I'm hostessing the Family Thanksgivng Dinner this year and Mom and I have been

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1163783418016453902006-11-17T11:51:00.000-05:002006-11-17T12:26:38.180-05:00

I wish I could knit lace. I think it must take more concentration than I have. I'm saying this because I was over visiting Grumperina's blog and drooling over the pictures in Victorian Lace. I may have to get out the Icarus shawl pattern and take another stab at it. The Suri Elegance Alpaca Laceweight is still sulking in the project basket where I threw it after my last attempt. Maybe this

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1163602589183877982006-11-15T09:02:00.000-05:002006-11-16T14:22:48.770-05:00

Auugh! Blogger is not letting me upload photos this morning. I'll try to add them to post later. If you see them, I was successful.Since it's Jack's turn for a grammy-knit sweater, I've started the Train Track Slipover (vest to those of us who live in the USA) from Louisa Harding's book Miss Bea's Rainy Day. I love the "Miss Bea" series of pattern books and I'm sorry that Katy has outgrown them,

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1162910426997636152006-11-07T09:35:00.000-05:002006-11-07T10:08:54.166-05:00

Here is the finished scarf for my ISC exchange partner. They are not great pictures. I had to take them at work (because I left the camera there over the weekend) I am a week late already and really wanted to get it in the mail. Thus, these are truly uninspired poses as my office is very blah in its decor. Ah well. The pattern is from Scarf Style and is called Midwest Moonlight. The yarn is Knit

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1162308316212275242006-10-31T09:52:00.000-05:002006-10-31T13:30:45.823-05:00

Yesterday was my Dad's 82nd birthday. Here he is, talking on the phone to his grandson Steve (my son) while the candles burn on the cake. Isn't he a dear? I think so. It was a quiet celebration, just Mom, me and the two dogs. The big celebration was a couple weeks ago at my sister's in Indiana. We had a yummy dinner of shrimp cocktail, Caesar salad, and a standing rib roast. Here's Dad carving

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1161628416207880962006-10-23T14:13:00.000-04:002006-10-23T14:36:29.066-04:00

I've always liked the Mamas and Papas music.It has been gray and rainy for a week now. I'm about to grow mold or mildew or something. I mailed Katy's sweater on Saturday and I wish I could show you a picture of her modeling it. Maybe my daughter will take pity on me and send me one. The best I can do right now are these photos taken with flash (see above gray weather). First, the lying limply on

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1161113653139443502006-10-17T14:39:00.000-04:002006-10-17T15:39:06.703-04:00

It is dark and rainy today, so dark that I didn't get a picture of Katy's sweater before leaving for work. I did take a picture of Jaywalker today at lunchtime. I've turned the heel and am working on the gusset.Progress on this sock has been a slow stroll. The yarn is dark, and the needles small (size 1) and if (when) I drop a stitch, it is murder finding it and getting it back on the needle. I

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1161007186108597882006-10-16T09:31:00.000-04:002006-10-16T09:59:46.196-04:00

It was a good weekend. I finished Katy's sweater and it has been washed and is blocking now. Picture tomorrow. I also did a little knitting on the Jaywalker sock. The heel has been turned. Knit Picks sent the wrong yarn, Merino Style, not Elegance. I ordered on line, and had a little trouble with the website. I put what I think was Elegance into the shoping cart and then decided to order

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1160580596229747952006-10-11T11:29:00.000-04:002006-10-11T11:36:37.733-04:00

But almost! I have one cm. left, then a three needle bind off. So that's just a couple/three rows to go. The yarn I ordered from KnitPicks for the Midwest Moonlight scarf hasn't arrived yet, so that's good. I'm determined to finish Katy's sweater before starting the scarf. Sigh. I'm trying to establish better knitting work habits, as cleaning out the project basket showed very clearly that I

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1160505661281395032006-10-10T14:34:00.000-04:002006-10-10T14:41:01.303-04:00

Last Friday, as I bound off sleeve two of Katy's sweater, I was sure I was going to finish it over the week end and have a finished object to show off on the blog on Monday. Here it is Tuesday and here is the progress. I backstitched the front to the back and picked up stitches for the hood. I had forgotten about the hood. Well, not forgotten exactly, but a hood, it's a mere bagatell, should

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1160403886820340602006-10-09T10:08:00.000-04:002006-10-09T11:39:27.383-04:00

I've been putting this off for a while, but the Project Basket needed a good tidying and it got it this week end. First, remove everything from the basket, shake, blow, and brush off dog hair that has drifted into the basket as Missy the Dog passes it on her way to her "cave" behind the recliner chair in the corner.Well, let's see what have we got here? Assorted swatches. Remove the ones not

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1160145113688714932006-10-06T09:59:00.000-04:002006-10-06T10:31:53.760-04:00

I keep calling this pattern Midwest Madness in my own mind, must be a Freudian slip (ho, ho).I love it and think it's beautiful. Perhaps it's my difficulties with lace knitting (see Icarus incident in last post) that is the association with mental problems, as in "She must be mad to attempt this lace stitch". Nevertheless I am committed (to the project, not the nuthouse) here. It will be the

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1159976088308090132006-10-04T11:25:00.000-04:002006-10-04T11:55:30.466-04:00

I feel like Lucy from Peanuts this morning. Probably because I got only 4 hours sleep last night. I am cruising along on Katy's sweater, about half way up the second sleeve. For some reason I decided to pick up the Icarus shawl project at 5:00 AM when I couldn't sleep. I knit about 4 rows and discovered that I had the wrong number of stitches. Gah. I was so annoyed that I frogged the whole thing

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1159802327324332512006-10-02T11:00:00.000-04:002006-10-02T12:45:03.216-04:00

I can see by the date of previous posts that I didn't post at all in September. Actually I did try once or twice but Blogger was not cooperative on those days and wouldn't publish what I did write. Rather discouraging, yes?Anyway... the lacing stitch socks. Here they are:I like the lacing stitch pattern and I like the Opal Prisma yarn but not so much together. Still, they feel soft and warm on my

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1156871240063784872006-08-29T12:35:00.000-04:002006-08-29T13:13:03.173-04:00

I have finished the lacing stitch socks, but it has been too overcast to get a good photo of them. There was very little knitting over the weekend (including Friday) because I drove to Maryland for the weekend to visit Katy and Jack. I haven't figured out how to drive and knit at the same time! In fact, I had trouble driving and staying awake at the same time, both coming and going. I don't know

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1155666282597496192006-08-15T13:46:00.000-04:002006-08-15T14:40:10.586-04:00

The Gotland Island mittens are done at last. That thumb on the right mitten gave me such trouble! I have to admit that I got a little bored with the red and white pattern, although it was an easy one to memorize, so I didn't have to consult the charts very often. The pattern was from Folk Mittens. I used three shades of Knitpick's Palette (red, green, and white). A bargain at $1.99 a ball. They

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1154545142176646232006-08-02T14:58:00.000-04:002006-08-02T15:24:28.886-04:00

I didn't finish the Gotland Island Mittens after all. On Saturday I finshed the tip of the mitten and all I had left to do on Sunday was knit the thumb. On Sunday I removed the waste yarn for the peasant thumb and picked up the stitches. I knit about an inch on the thumb and then I saw it---a dropped stitch way down at the base of the thumb. Apparently I dropped it in the first row. :( I

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1153836572033584622006-07-25T10:02:00.000-04:002006-07-26T10:49:09.566-04:00

I tried to post this yesterday, but Blogger would not upload my photos for some reason. Today it is uploading them just fine. Go figure.I finally got around to photographing the Spiral Eyelet Socks, so here they are:Unfortunately, the eyelets do not show in the pictures and I did not take one of the socks on my feet. Mea Culpa. Here's a close-up of the pattern detail. Believe me, the eyelets

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1153502492580318452006-07-21T12:52:00.000-04:002006-07-21T13:21:32.616-04:00

I was going to whine about the heat (80's & 90's) and 85 % humidity, but pretty much everyone in the good old US of A is getting the same weather. So I won't say anything else, except that I have spent the last 6 days at my parent's house because they have air conditioning.It's hard to knit when it's so hot and sticky, but I have done a little. I did finish the the spiral eyelet socks, but they

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1152198813987779852006-07-06T10:56:00.000-04:002006-07-06T11:13:34.083-04:00

Donna tagged me for this Meme. Ok, here goes.Four places I have worked:H & S Pogue CompanyAnderson Power Products, Inc.University Hospitals of ClevelandCleveland Clinic Children's Hospital for RehabilitationFour movies I would watch over and over:Steel MagnoliasFour Weddings and a FuneralMajor LeagueCasablancaFour places I have lived:Cleveland, OhioCincinnati, OhioBoston, MassachusettsDenver,

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1151601285733101442006-06-29T13:00:00.000-04:002006-06-29T13:14:45.753-04:00

Nothing too exciting here, not even a finished project. This is the best I can do for today's post. One Spiral Eyelet Sock is complete, but not washed or blocked, and the second is to the point where I start the heel flap. As I said, ho hum.I've been at my parents house for the past ten days, so that my mom and I could do Diet Boot Camp. Diet Boot Camp is our name for the first two weeks of

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1150807890676204822006-06-20T08:46:00.000-04:002006-06-20T08:51:30.690-04:00

Taken by Barbara Matthews on May 14, 2005The east side of Carrizo Plain, in the Tremblor Range about 50 miles due west of Bakersfield, CA.

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1150477141670174092006-06-16T12:48:00.000-04:002006-06-16T12:59:01.690-04:00

Here's the progress on the spiral eyelet sock. Not much to look at, is it? I'm about half way through the heel flap.Look what I bought at the LYS yesterday! There are some really beautiful children's knits in this book.I would like to knit this one someday for Katy, but I think I had better work on something for Jack first. As a "grammy" you can't play favorites.Hopefully after the weekend I've

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1150388469232403072006-06-15T11:56:00.000-04:002006-06-15T12:21:09.270-04:00

I have been looking through my knitting books and magazines for a flowered pullover sweater pattern in children's sizes for Katy. And the two finalists are:DAISY on the left and ROSA REEF on the right. A thank you to LeAnne for suggesting Rosa Reef. I was racking my brains trying to think where I had seen a flowered Zoe Mellor pattern, and she came up with it! I was able to find it on the

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1150291192037716902006-06-14T09:19:00.000-04:002006-06-14T14:54:18.133-04:00

The Spiral Eyelet sock is coming along very slowly as it is being knit on size 1 needles. I'm still working on the leg and haven't reached the heel flap yet. I knit on it while watching Scent of a Woman on HBO last night. I hadn't seen it before and I liked. I'm an Al Pacino fan.Yesterday while driving to work I passed a small lake locally known as "the Duck Pond" and saw seven great blue

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1150219953978027332006-06-13T13:11:00.000-04:002006-06-13T15:08:48.536-04:00

As promised here are the former slouch socks reincarnated (or something).I just cast on 60 stitches on size US 2 needles, knit a 2x2 ribbed cuff,Then a round heel,And a banded toe (I think that's what it's called. Whatever.)There you have it. A simple sock to smooth my feelings over the slouch disaster. And I have started a new sock. It is the Opal Sock of the Month Club pattern for June. It's

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1150128265973752202006-06-12T11:39:00.000-04:002006-06-12T12:04:26.110-04:00

I just spent a three day week end in Gaithersburg, MD visiting my daughter and her family. Yes, knitting did occur, but not actually on the road, as I had to drive the car. I finished a pair of socks, which have been washed and are blocking, so no picture today. My granddaughter Katy, told me that she has outgrown all her "grammy sweaters", so could I make a new one? She is requesting " a yellow

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1149267284238992942006-06-02T12:51:00.000-04:002006-06-02T17:04:45.596-04:00

Yardage needed for Slouch Socks: 430 yds.Yardage in 2 balls of Steinbach Woolle sock yarn: 328 yds.Gauge for Slouch Socks: 7 stitches/inchMy gauge: 8 stitches/inch.Doh! There you have it. Stay tuned.

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1149181660653367192006-06-01T12:47:00.000-04:002006-06-01T14:30:08.340-04:00

Where does the time go? Rhetorical question of course. The weather has gone from temperatures in the 50's in Northeast Ohio to the 80's and the last week has been hot and humid. I knit less in the hot weather, since I don't have air conditioning and my hands sweat. After two hours of thunderstorms last night, it has cooled off to a more seasonal temperature. Hopefully, I'll get some knitting time

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1147444991918493212006-05-12T10:26:00.000-04:002006-05-12T10:43:12.930-04:00

I tried to post yesterday and something wonky was going on with blogger. It won't let me post photographs and then it wouldn't even save what I had written as a draft. Grrr.Anyway...I'm very please with how they turned out! Now I can wear them clog dancing, no wait, I don't know how to clog dance. Never mind, they'll see lots of wear.Yes, Virgina, it is a warshcloth! Does that make me offically a

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1147112898453863732006-05-08T14:13:00.000-04:002006-05-08T14:35:10.033-04:00

Just look at the beautiful socks my Sockapalooooza pal knit for me!! Aren't they fabulous? This shade of purple is one of my favorite colors and the contrasting toes and cuff top are cool. Here is a detail of the pattern, which is called Butterfly Rib. Oh I am a lucky woman! And, to pamper me she sent a package of foot soak and foot lotion too. Won't that feel good! And, she is also talented in

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1146074069822506152006-04-26T13:18:00.000-04:002006-04-26T13:54:30.906-04:00

Here they are, basking in the sun. And here's a closer look. They are knit on US 2 double points from Knit Picks Essentials Sock Yarn in Pumpkin. I actually think they are more a spice color, like cinnamon or nutmeg maybe. The color in the photos is fairly accurate, just a bit less orange and a bit more brown in real life. I used the same pattern as the test knit, Embossed Leaves. The only change

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1144702190285778302006-04-10T16:33:00.000-04:002006-04-10T16:49:50.323-04:00

I cast on for the Sockapaloooza Socks this week end and see how far I've gotten! I'm using Knit Picks Essential sock yarn in Pumpkin. It actually looks more spice colored to me, like cinnamon or nutmeg. I hope my sock pal will approve of the color. And, I have finished the New England socks as well. They have had a Euclan bath and are drying. I hope they'll be ready for a picture

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1144070591403709262006-04-03T09:12:00.000-04:002006-04-03T09:38:41.406-04:00

Stephen Thomas Chemaborn October 27, 1915 - died April 3, 2006My father-in-law passed away yesterday evening, in his sleep. He was 90 years old but he clung to life. His wife died three years ago and I think he missed her very much. He spent the last six months of his life first in the hospital (2 months) and then in a nursing home. He had congestive heart failure and a pacemaker, and his kidneys

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1143654999013530692006-03-29T12:51:00.000-05:002006-03-29T13:12:03.130-05:00

I cannot believe it has been so long between posts! Truthfully, I haven't done nearly as much knitting as I usually do. Keeping the house immaculate for realtors and clients is sucking up way too much good knitting time.Since I last posted:1. My Mom had her 81st birthday2. My son-in-law hit a hole-in-one on the golf course3. I have finished a pair of socks.Let's go directly to the socks, shall we

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1142007984121622242006-03-10T10:57:00.000-05:002006-03-10T11:30:40.946-05:00

Warning: this is not about knitting. I haven't done any. Well, I have, but keep making mistakes and I knit an inch, rip an inch, knit an inch, rip an inch. 'Tis indicative of my state of mind.Having said that, the house goes on the market today. It is a historical landmark, built in 1923, with beautiful oak millwork, Tudor architecture, hardwood floors, woodburning fireplaces and details found in

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1141763617561003042006-03-07T15:07:00.000-05:002006-03-07T15:33:37.596-05:00

Here I am! It's been a while since I blogged. First I spent a week visiting my Mom and Dad at their Winter home in Brownsville, Texas. I had a great time and it was very relaxing. I did all the fun things I was looking forward to including walking on the beach on South Padre Island, shopping in Mexico, eating Texas barbequed ribs (yum), and drinking Margaritas. After Mass on Sunday Mom, Dad and I

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1139854046086637642006-02-13T12:52:00.000-05:002006-02-16T11:45:31.586-05:00

I have been miserable with a sinus infection and even after four days on antibiotics I'm not feeling great. But life goes on whether we feel like joining in or not. The Country Socks are finally finshed.Pattern: Country Socks from Nancy Bush's book, Folk Socks.Yarn: Brown Sheep Nature Spun Sport Weight in Natural (50 grams) and Grey Heather (100 grams)Needles: US size 2 double points.While I was

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1138979530571019462006-02-03T09:56:00.000-05:002006-02-03T10:37:00.610-05:00

Well, I'm a day late and dollar short, as they say. The blogger silent poetry reading was yesterday, February 2, but I think I'll post one anyway. I love a wood burning fire in the fireplace on our snowy winter evenings. This year has been so unusually warm, that I've had very few. I always think of this poem when I light a fire, because it's about firewood. It's an old verse, and I have no idea

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1138731578196540072006-01-31T13:08:00.000-05:002006-01-31T13:21:00.623-05:00

Meet Alice. Santa Claus brought her to my daughter Christine on Christmas 1973 and she has lived in our house ever since. I took her off the shelf in the Teen Suite on the 3rd floor of my house to model the Berry Cute Hat. It's a lousy picture, taken by flash since it is a very gloomy overcast day in Cleveland. Poor Alice, she actually looks a little scary in this picture, but she is really very

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1138374926995965022006-01-27T10:10:00.000-05:002006-01-27T11:02:11.476-05:00

I'm glad it's Friday, it's been a long week. I do have a long list of errands to run tomorrow, but I won't think about that now.There has been baby shower knitting this week. It turns out that the yet unborn baby is a girl, so I decided to knit Bev Galeska's pattern "A Berry Cute Hat". I knit this hat before for my granddaughter, Katy, although in the large size. This time it's the small size,

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1138034887200258362006-01-23T11:34:00.000-05:002006-01-23T11:50:20.953-05:00

Drat, just lost a post. I didn't save it before I previewed and when I closed the preview window that was the end of that. Live and learn.Ok. I finished the Meillenweit socks. They are a pretty good fit, although a tad loose in the ankle.The color is a bit washed out from the flash. They are really red, pinkish brown, and brown.Next, I cast on for the Country Socks for the Folk Sock Knitalong.

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1138030971347786012006-01-23T10:29:00.000-05:002006-01-23T10:42:51.613-05:00

The Yarn Harlot is encouraging us to joint the Knitting Olympics, to knit to the finish one challenging knitting project during the period from the Opening Ceremonies through the Closing Ceremonies. Am I tempted to join in? Yeah, I even know what the challenging project would be, Lucy Neatby's Camelot Socks. It's not going to happen though. I'll be visiting my parents at their winter home in

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1137445838971451402006-01-16T15:51:00.000-05:002006-01-16T16:14:39.816-05:00

Darn that Beadwork! I've added a couple of inches and was beginning to feel like I might actually be making progress. Just as I was thinking, "You know, I must finally be getting all three charts down, I haven't had to do any ripping or tinking for almost a week", I saw it. A mistake four rows down. So I spent 45 minutes this morning tinking back to the mistake. So not how I like to start the day

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1137079484467955312006-01-12T10:07:00.000-05:002006-01-12T10:24:44.600-05:00

The Naturespun yarn for the Country Socks hasn't arrived from Patternworks yet. So, being totally fickle, or maybe it's because I'm a Gemini, I had to cast on for a new pair of socks. The yarn is Lana Grossa Meilenweit Multiringel, shade 5030. I'm using US size 2 double points and a generic sock pattern from I forget where. I'm feeling very virtuous that the yarn is from my stash. Never mind

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1136908323824728132006-01-10T10:33:00.000-05:002006-01-10T10:54:04.303-05:00

As promised, the completed Whitby socks.They were really a pleasure to knit. I used 3.25mm double points and Louet Gems Opal sport weight yarn. They only took about three days total to knit. They have a dutch heel.I forget what the toe style is called-wedge, maybe? Anyway here it is.I have ordered some Nature Spun sport yarn from Patternworks for my next sock project, County Socks from Nancy

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1136822371244560552006-01-09T10:39:00.000-05:002006-01-09T10:59:32.956-05:00

This past holiday season was the best for me in several years. The first Christmas after my husband left me (in September) was so hard. Nothing seemed right. The next one was better, but I was still sad at "what might have been" but wasn't. This year I was able to just enjoy the moment. I guess you do get used to changes, even hard ones.The trip to Maryland was fun. It's a long drive, but my

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1136556572072877022006-01-06T09:00:00.000-05:002006-01-06T09:35:18.880-05:00

I finished the second Latvian socks during my trip to Maryland, but delayed taking photos because it has been so gray and overcast here. It is still gray and overcast--this is Cleveland in January, folks--but took the photos anyway. Details:Pattern from Nancy Bush's book, Folk Socks. I knit the pattern exactly as written and didn't find any errors. I used a provisional cast on for the picot hem.

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1135700933613295512005-12-27T11:14:00.000-05:002005-12-27T11:28:53.630-05:00

I have just eaten "too many" chocolate covered pretzels from a gift tin in my office. I feel not-so-good. Don't ask. Sometimes I just need chocolate.Knitting progress: the mate to the Lativian sock now has nine of the needed ten pattern repeats on the leg. I did manage to pick it up and work a couple rounds here and there during the Christmas preparations. I went to take a picture of the progress

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1135610166335937502005-12-26T09:57:00.000-05:002005-12-26T10:16:06.806-05:00

I host the Family Christmas Eve Dinner every year. Being surrounded by those I love and who love me is truly Christmas for me. Oh, we eat the festive dinner and exchange gifts, but just being together is best of all. My sister's family comes from Chicago, as does my brother. My parents and my sister-in-law and neice and nephew come from their homes here in town. My son comes from Arlington, VA.

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1135177842336882652005-12-21T10:04:00.000-05:002005-12-21T10:10:42.353-05:00

The Gryffindor scarf now has 13 of 14 repeats done. So, one repeat, plus 27 final rows of the main color, cast off, wash, block, cut 108 pieces of main color yarn 8" long, and attach fringe with crochet hook. I have today, tomorrow, and Friday to do this. Actually, it's the blocking that will really take time. I may have to set up a fan to blow across the scarf to hurry the drying

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1134742934902312002005-12-16T09:04:00.000-05:002005-12-16T09:22:14.923-05:00

I have done so little shopping, I'm not certain why I am so laid back about it this year. I should be in a panic, right? Every evening on the way home from work, I think to myself, "Self, you should go to the mall tonight and pick up a gift or two". But the weather has been so nasty (sleet and freezing rain yesterday) that I just head for home. I did have the chimney sweep here this week, so I

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1134487852989371602005-12-13T10:09:00.000-05:002005-12-13T10:30:53.030-05:00

It has been a cold, snowy December in Cleveland. These are views out the window where I work. At least the sun is out this morning, although it's still very cold. How cold? I would rather not know, thank you. I cope better.The finished House Elf Socks:The left sock is a bright red, not the rose color in this picture. I think my sister will love them and they certainly make me laugh!I promised

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1134053595165203002005-12-08T09:21:00.000-05:002005-12-08T09:53:15.193-05:00

The House Elf socks are finished and I cannot find the stupid camera. There will be no picture of them today. Actually, they turned out pretty well, kind of ugly-cute. I had to frog the leg of the first one. The color work section did not stretch enough to go over my heel. This was solved by casting on and knitting the next size up. Then I began on the short row heel. It had wraps, which had

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1133970987608326022005-12-07T10:55:00.000-05:002005-12-07T10:56:42.426-05:00

The Noble PrincessYou are just and fair, a perfectionist with astrong sense of proper decorum. You are veryattracted to chivalry, ceremony and dignity.For the most part you are rather sensible, butyou are also very idealistic.Role Models: Guinevere, Princess Fiona (of Shrek)You are most likely to: Get kidnapped by a straydragon.What Kind of Princess are You? - Beautiful Artwork (Original Music is

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1133556630138851062005-12-02T15:26:00.000-05:002005-12-02T15:53:41.803-05:00

And that is an understatement. It appears that lot of weekend time will be spent digging out. I'm also anticipating knitting in a nice warm house while watching the snow fall. It has been snowing steadily all day and isn't supposed to stop until tomorrow night. Ah, lake effect snow!Another sample of the knitting I have done in the past month. This cap and mittens were for Katy, and I knit a

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1133467594124841092005-12-01T14:37:00.000-05:002005-12-01T15:06:34.186-05:00

Actually I finished these socks on October 30, but, well life got away from me for a while there. I love the Lorna's Laces yarn and will definitely use it in the future. I followed Nancy Bush's pattern for Conwy exactly, and I'm pleased with the way they fit without being loose in the ankle. I have also finished one sock in the Folk Sock Knitalong, which is the Lativian pattern. I don't

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1131051151700665222005-11-03T15:47:00.000-05:002005-11-03T15:52:31.716-05:00

I hope you all had a good Halloween and ate lots of chocolate. I know I did! Here are pictures of my grandchildren, Jack in dinosaur costume, and Katy as Belle from Beauty and the Beast. These two just make my heart melt.

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1130261212129893992005-10-25T13:20:00.000-04:002005-10-25T13:26:52.143-04:00

I've been trying to get good photos of my sock progress, but it has been dark and gloomy and rainy for three days now. According to the weatherman, no relief in sight untilt the weekend. I'm not really complaining, I didn't have to survive a hurricane, thank goodness! Anyhoo, I have finished the first Conwy sock and have about 4 inches on the leg of the second. I have also made some progresss

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1129558146701196802005-10-17T09:35:00.000-04:002005-10-17T10:09:06.720-04:00

It's Socktober Fest! I planned to knit four pairs of socks this month. As it is already the 17th, I might have overreached myself, but we'll see. One pair is actually finished! Here they are: they are knit from Steinbach Wolle Aktiv Effekt in shade 03 (if I'm reading the ball band right. Farbe means shade doesn't it?). This is a first time knit with this sock yarn and I am in love with it. First,

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1128701165208483902005-10-07T11:59:00.000-04:002005-10-07T12:06:05.213-04:00

Very little keeps me from knitting. I can always find a minute here or there. But this week has been tough. I find myself just staring into space. My cousin Kathy's 19 year old son committed sucide on Tuesday. Kathy is like another sister to me, and the pain she is suffering is terrible. Her son had Bi-Poler disorder, and he just couldn't beat it. It was too big a fight for him. Anyway,

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1128091099254558512005-09-30T10:25:00.000-04:002005-09-30T10:38:19.260-04:00

This is a quick post before I leave for Maryland this afternoon. Princess Katy is having her 5th birthday party this week end. The party theme is, of course, a princess one. Although I have several birthday gifts for her, I am knitting one as well. It's the denim pinafore from Erika Knight's book Simple Knits for Little Cherubs. This is a picture of the back. The front looks just like the

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1127411293962396412005-09-22T13:34:00.000-04:002005-09-22T13:57:27.240-04:00

The Friday Harbor socks are done! I'm really pleased with how they turned out and can't wait to wear them. I knit them in Mountain Colors Weavers Wool Quarters in alpine, using US 2 double points.Here is a close look at the heel. And the cuff, which I had to do twice on the first sock, but looks good so it was worth it.And finally, the toe. I'm Kitchener-challenged, so even though I like a more

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1126534581224235522005-09-12T10:12:00.000-04:002005-09-15T12:48:07.983-04:00

I finished the first Friday Harbor sock on Saturday and I'm finished with the leg on the second sock. Also had a stash cleanout this past week end. I discovered that I have an embarrassing amount of sock yarn. I also found a few things I had forgotten I had. I have ten skeins of Rowan Chunky Tweed in a dark blue that might be enough for a cardigan. I'd also forgotten I had purchased some sock

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1126108179121872982005-09-07T11:33:00.000-04:002005-09-08T14:34:04.563-04:00

I actually have three finished projects from my vacation. Here are a pair of nordic mittens, knit on US 3 double points with Debby Bliss Merino DK. I modified a pattern of Beth Brown-Reisle's that was in Interweave Knits Winter 2004 (I think). Now I'm set for a cold winter. And I finished a pair of socks, knit on US 1 double points in Opal Rainforest yarn in Parrot. Opal keeps coming up with

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1124124021115145942005-08-15T12:23:00.000-04:002005-08-15T12:42:36.230-04:00

I woke up this morning to look in the mirror and see a broken capillary in my right eye. It's not painful, but nasty to look at. I have a weak blood vessel or vessels in that eye and about every 6 months, it pops. It takes about a week to resolve, and makes me really self-conscious.Today would have been the 36th anniversary of my marriage, if I still had one any more. All those hopes and

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1123864974961764112005-08-12T12:28:00.000-04:002005-08-12T12:42:54.970-04:00

I'm spending the weekend on Sleeve Island. Now that the front and back of the Marco PoloT are complete, I'm ready for sleeve knittin'. It should be a short sojourn since they are short sleeves. And they are simple stockinette stitch, so bring on the Margaritas. But with my luck, the cabana boy will be balding and have a beer belly. I once signed up for a private, all afternoon skiing lesson

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1123522206881080642005-08-08T13:04:00.000-04:002005-08-08T13:30:07.526-04:00

After two and a half weeks at my parents house, I'm going back home today. The weather is still very hot in the daytime, but the last few nights have been cooler. As long as I can sleep at night, the daytime heat is tolerable. I will also be back to cooking for myself and will have to fix my own diet meals. I've decided on no wine in the evenings. After I have one glass, I want another, and

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1123001714738970172005-08-02T12:52:00.000-04:002005-08-02T14:49:27.943-04:00

The Marco Polo yarn finally arrived from Patternworks last week. I've made good progress, and have finished the back of the Raglan T-Shirt Sweater I'm knitting for Mom.This yarn is very different. I realized I didn't include a close up shot, which isn't very helpful. It is a cotton yarn, with a gold thread plied around it, and the whole thing encased in a fine nylon tube, like pantyhose! It is

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1122386115268007372005-07-26T09:27:00.000-04:002005-07-26T10:07:43.260-04:00

I have been staying at my parents for the past week, and my camera is at home, so no photos. I have been knitting though. Although I did do some knitting on an unfinished project from the project basket (a shawl in koigu KPPM merino, "old shale" pattern), I gave in to temptation and started a pair of socks with the Cascade fixation I bought from the Knit Shop. That project is up to the foot of

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1121455975769217722005-07-15T15:19:00.000-04:002005-07-15T15:32:55.776-04:00

Lordy, but it hot and humid again. Not much knitting going on. I finished felting a tote bag. I'll photograph it after I sew the straps and button on it. I'm trying to limit myself to working on unfinished projects, but they are all wool and I'm not motivated to do much with them. Patternworks still has not sent the Marco Polo yarn I need to knit my mother's sweater. It is still backordered

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1121083065972942082005-07-11T07:57:00.001-04:002005-07-11T09:38:12.653-04:00

Doggone. I thought I had figured out how to download multiple pictures to a post, but it appears that I now have five separate posts. I am defintely blog-challenged. Anyway...I knit these socks last week in between finishing off Deli. The yarn is Opal Lollipop shade 1009 and they were knit on US 1 needles. lollipop socks

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1121083033025768202005-07-11T07:57:00.000-04:002005-07-11T09:36:34.313-04:00

lollipop socks

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1121082985643815102005-07-11T07:56:00.000-04:002005-07-11T09:44:55.846-04:00

Here she is! I visited another yarn shop about 30 minutes from home, and lo and behold, they not only had a ball of apple green Cashcotton DK, but even the same dye lot! So Deli got her ties and they match perfectly. She's had a bath and is blocked. Laid out flat like that, the sweater looks like it would fit an elephant. But it's actually a size small for my daughter, who wears size 6. The

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1121082807606537962005-07-11T07:53:00.000-04:002005-07-11T09:56:46.796-04:00

I do like to knit socks! The visit to the Knit Shop, where I bought the yarn to finish Deli was well worth the drive. They had tons of really beautiful yarn. Although I was very tempted, I reminded myself of my basket of unfinished projects waiting for me to pick them up and knit them. But I simply couldn't help myself when it comes to sock yarn. Those little yarn skeins whisper, "Take me home,

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1120743170509351802005-07-07T12:30:00.000-04:002005-07-07T09:32:50.513-04:00

I'm so saddened by what is happening in London. Right away I thought of all the UK knitbloggers. I'm hoping that the London knitbloggers will post so that we'll know they are ok.

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1120144373430659092005-06-30T10:58:00.000-04:002005-06-30T11:12:53.436-04:00

Deli is finished except for weaving in the ends and knitting the i-cord ties. Never mind that it has been over 90 degrees all week. I just want her finished. I bought 10 balls of Cashcotton DK and it should have been enough to knit the small size, according to the pattern. My gauge was spot on too. Well, we know how that goes don't we? I have used every scrap of yarn, I even unravelled the

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1119111399583730592005-06-18T12:16:00.000-04:002005-06-18T13:18:34.086-04:00

The answer is, unfortunately not. The photo is the second sleeve of Deli, which I have since finished. My mission for today was to block the pieces. But, although I have at least a million big headed pins, I only had enough to pin out the sleeves and both fronts. The back will have to wait until the other pieces are dry and can be unpinned. I spritzed them with cold water, as I didn't know how

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1119111302967907192005-06-18T12:15:00.000-04:002005-06-18T12:15:02.970-04:00

close up of vine lace 

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13092339.post-1119111229986676692005-06-18T12:13:00.000-04:002005-06-18T12:31:18.033-04:00

As a break from Deli while it was so hot, I knit a pair of socks for my sister, who, bless her heart, thinks my socks are the best and won't wear anything else. It's nice to knit for someone who appreciates it. The pattern is from SocksSocksSocks, edited by Elaine Rowley. I used Opal sock yarn in shade 29. It's a bright turquoise and the color in the photo is about right.vine lace socks

barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593579628049837038noreply@blogger.com0