tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-102914802024-03-14T01:59:43.343-04:00Crafty GirlzThis is my site for keeping up with my craft projects. I love to crochet, am learning to knit. Also like to bead, make cards, and many other crafts I may decide to track on this blog. I am a mother of a 5 and 3 year old, as well as a full-time employee of Microsoft - so I don't have a lot of free time. But I will see how much I can keep this up!Janet Richardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404150965859368460noreply@blogger.comBlogger284125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10291480.post-14860947793650706082008-11-04T23:46:00.005-05:002008-11-05T01:20:05.059-05:00Today is the dayToday is the day - hope won over fear.<br />Today is the day - history was made.<br />Today is the day - the youth and under-represented roared.<br />Today is the day - peace won over war.<br />Today is the day - we begin as a nation to heal.<br />Today is the day - unity won over division.<br />Today is the day - America won over race.<br />Today is the day - I never thought I would see.<br />Today is the day - the power of we won over the power of I<br />Praise the Lord. Thank you Jesus.Janet Richardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404150965859368460noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10291480.post-13566392978527856782008-10-28T14:39:00.001-04:002008-10-28T14:41:03.552-04:00Our FutureI saw these kids on CNN and was jaw-dropping amazed. They knew the party's platforms, what each canidate stands for, and could articulate it. What excuse does an adult have - if the kids can interpret the race and write this rap?????<br /><br />Educate yourself - and vote!!!!<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/UxlwYP0HNdc&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/UxlwYP0HNdc&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>Janet Richardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404150965859368460noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10291480.post-59713972859363489512008-10-22T23:41:00.003-04:002008-10-22T23:54:01.501-04:00Why I love my wheelThese were spun on my Hitchhiker - 2.7oz of superwash for Jada's Baby Suprise Jacket. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2966261138/" title="DSC01145 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3150/2966261138_2450968185.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC01145" /></a><br /><br />I tried to spin it fine - in some places too fine. But it was only my 2nd roving on the Hitchhiker. I think it turned out great!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2966262238/" title="DSC01146 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3066/2966262238_faa7c1d035.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC01146" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2965409313/" title="DSC01141 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3296/2965409313_e7c52c6014.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC01141" /></a><br /><br />And I also plyed my first pencil roving spun on the Hitchhiker. Much less fine, but still - I love how it turned out. I'm just not sure what to make with it.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2966257648/" title="DSC01142 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3161/2966257648_71c9fdfba0.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC01142" /></a><br /><br />I love my spindles, but this is so much faster. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2966258834/" title="DSC01143 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3244/2966258834_27e772111f.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC01143" /></a><br /><br />And portable - I took my HH to Charlotte Purls meetings twice so I could finish the superwash.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2966263188/" title="DSC01147 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3177/2966263188_13db0a7dff.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC01147" /></a><br /><br />Here I am at the Purls meeting with my HH :)<br /><br /><a target="_blank" href="http://www.slide.com/s/uWs_DPze5T8GLvEr_o34iOOe2gP1-bH1?referrer=hlnk"><img src="http://widget.slide.com/rdr/1/1/1/W/80000001e52f9ce/1/93/JW3J6BsW6T-q0TGwb_lEwEeUfmuCIwSk.jpg" border="0" alt="Host unlimited photos at slide.com for FREE!" title="Host unlimited photos at slide.com for FREE!" /></a><br /><br />Thanks Stacey for the snapshot of my portable spinning :)<br /><br />I'm still working on my 8oz Roving on the Kiwi - pictures of that soon.....Janet Richardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404150965859368460noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10291480.post-13215699844832622522008-10-18T18:13:00.003-04:002008-10-18T18:21:13.309-04:00The Capelet's outingToday - I wore the cape after a reblocking and adding buttons. It was the perfect fall accessory.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2952909598/" title="DSC01085 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3194/2952909598_fd29b0027d.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC01085" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2952925694/" title="DSC01114 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3213/2952925694_b5115db7eb.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC01114" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2952070015/" title="DSC01110 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3219/2952070015_d2c2f5fb84.jpg" width="375" height="500" alt="DSC01110" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2952912814/" title="DSC01092 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3022/2952912814_34d1759498.jpg" width="375" height="500" alt="DSC01092" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2952064955/" title="DSC01098 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3172/2952064955_d63f157ba4.jpg" width="375" height="500" alt="DSC01098" /></a><br /><br />Fall in the Carolinas has arrived.Janet Richardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404150965859368460noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10291480.post-74475972896182322112008-10-16T20:24:00.007-04:002008-10-16T22:52:04.655-04:00I Voted!!Early voting started today in NC. So I took some time off work and voted!<br /><br />It's done - after months of breathless anticipation, concern that my canidate would not making through the rough primary season - it's done. My vote is cast.<br /><br />I was suprised at how many people were there. Half were senior citizens. And due to the ridiculous setup where you carried your ballot for EVERYONE to see across the room to machine. I was not suprised to see these Concordian's voting for McCain.<br /><br />Figures - all the McCain/Palin signs I see around Concord. I hate living in Concord sometimes. <br /><br />But we are a battleground state, and every vote counts. So - go Davidson, Chapel Hill and Charlotte and other more progressive areas - I'm pulling for you to swing us to Obama!<br /><br />Our neighbor and I are going to put up lawn signs - just to buck the tide a bit......I'll have to let you know how long they last before they are ripped up and destroyed.<br /><br />As I'm on a political roll - I have to release this into cyber space to get it of my chest. I'm so unsuprised, but incredibly disappointed in the contingent in America who is unable to look past someone's skin to the ideas and abilities they possess. I can totally respect someone who cannot vote for Obama due to his positions or platform. But the vague - "He's not like us", "I just don't trust him" and worse that is moving from whispers (you always knew it was there) to statements and shouts in Palin Rally's is dispicable. I almost wish McCain on you if you are that ignorant. Too bad my children would be left with the consequences. America has come a long way, but clearly has territory to cover. I pray these next few weeks remain peaceful. And if we are fortunate enough to have an Obama Presidency - that it ends in election or after 8 years - not due to the close mindedness of some among us. And if that happens -- maybe a few more will realize that just because someone is browner than them - doesn't mean that they are less American.<br /><br />Now back to the safe world of fiber......<br /><br />Actually- I'm very worried about the fiber world, if it can withstand this downturn. But that's another blog.<br /><br />But - two scarves I started to coordinate with my cape:<br /><br />Crochet:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2948615172/" title="DSC01077 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3198/2948615172_deb94617eb.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC01077" /></a><br /><br />The yarn is Ella Rae Lacy Merino. So squishy and soft. Incredible yarn and dying. <br /><br />Look at this cake of lovelyness:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2948616814/" title="DSC01078 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3190/2948616814_a81fe84fb5.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC01078" /></a><br /><br />I decided to try the nice yarn out on crochet. And the results are wonderful. The stitch is the crazy stitch. It's my second scarf using this pattern, and I think I'm going to write it up and publish it (for free) - I've gotten a few questions on the first scarf with Malabrio Lace.<br /><br />The 2nd scarf is made with Fleece Artist Woolie Silk 2-Ply.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2948618168/" title="DSC01079 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3174/2948618168_97c3a5e8bd.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC01079" /></a><br /><br />I think this color Purple looks so nice with the Split Pea Green in the cape. I'm using the Ruffle Edge Scarf pattern by Mac & Me. Easy and simple - but with a bit of an extra touch with the ruffle. I love me a good ribbed scarf. So scruncy and adds so much air and fluff to the yarn if it's knit loosly.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2948620392/" title="DSC01081 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3217/2948620392_d88b57c649.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC01081" /></a><br /><br />Look at this cake. I don't know which one is prettier. I can't wait to have my two 08 scarves for the fall/winter!Janet Richardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404150965859368460noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10291480.post-59463214182104309982008-10-15T19:00:00.003-04:002008-10-15T19:08:37.566-04:00To Cape or not to CapeThe Incredible's Edna had the unquestioned position - "No Capes!".<br /><br />But I wanted a cape.<br /><br />So I made one myself.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2943842321/" title="IMG00091.jpg by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3185/2943842321_7df5c7907f.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="IMG00091.jpg" /></a><br /><br />It needs buttons - I just picked up some at <a href="http://www.charlotteyarn.com">Charlotte Yarn.</a> Yes - I visited their new diggs in East Charlotte. NIIIICE! Too much temptation of course - so I need to keep a healthy distance in these sober times. Well - perhaps a weak, sickly distance....<br /><br />The cape was fast and easy - except the collar. I'm not happy with how it turned out - very severe blocking is required to get it to lie flat. I need to soak and reblock as it curls up unattractively.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2943776613/" title="IMG00090.jpg by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2410/2943776613_fafcea4384.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="IMG00090.jpg" /></a><br /><br />The pattern is in the book Wrap Style - and was the "Grand Plan Caplet - lace version" by Ann Budd. She gives you so many options - I will make another plain one, cardigan style.<br /><br />I'm in jewel tone heaven with this color - and am making a matching deep purple/maroon scarf to match, or perhaps better stated coordinate. The colors look great together.<br /><br />Speaking of scarves - I have so many to finish before Christmas. Much knitting must take place - soon!Janet Richardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404150965859368460noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10291480.post-84877393854007109382008-10-10T19:56:00.004-04:002008-10-10T20:05:26.000-04:00The neatest two year old eater in the worldSo Jada spends a lot of time with daddy, and daddy has a bit of an OCD issue with messy eating.<br /><br />Hence, my video, I hadn't realized how much of an influence he had on her....<br /><br /><object type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="400" height="300" data="http://www.flickr.com/apps/video/stewart.swf?v=60247" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000"> <param name="flashvars" value="intl_lang=en-us&photo_secret=3517b81c41&photo_id=2929660009"></param> <param name="movie" value="http://www.flickr.com/apps/video/stewart.swf?v=60247"></param> <param name="bgcolor" value="#000000"></param> <param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><embed type="application/x-shockwave-flash" src="http://www.flickr.com/apps/video/stewart.swf?v=60247" bgcolor="#000000" allowfullscreen="true" flashvars="intl_lang=en-us&photo_secret=3517b81c41&photo_id=2929660009" height="300" width="400"></embed></object><br /><br /><br />Thanks to the Charlotte Purls, EZ Video and our CP KAL - I made my first Baby Surprise Jacket. I WILL be making more of these, I'm on my 2nd and I'm spinning for one for Jada.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2922772271/" title="IMG_3532 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3190/2922772271_24ddd7ed45.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="IMG_3532" /></a><br /><br />Turns into this:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2922769675/" title="IMG_3534 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3017/2922769675_1e664b5d32.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="IMG_3534" /></a><br /><br />Before I could put buttons on it - Zuri and her <a href="http://mom2rays.blogspot.com">mommy</a> whisked it away. It was too cute on her and I'm so mad all my pictures went poof due to no memory card in my camera!!!!<br /><br />I've been spinning. Much more exiting stuff than this - but this was the first I spun, plyed, washed and knitted:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2927602134/" title="DSC01072 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3015/2927602134_80cba40ceb.jpg" width="375" height="500" alt="DSC01072" /></a><br /><br />Yeah - I know - not enough twist in my ply and in places too much twist in my yarn. It was my 1st one on the wheel, and I'm proud of it! :) Makes a nice water bottle cover too!Janet Richardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404150965859368460noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10291480.post-53158978023734739622008-10-03T00:34:00.003-04:002008-10-04T20:28:01.422-04:00A Blogging DeficitDear blogging world, I have no abandoned you. I can't imagine how many blog entries I am now behind on in my RSS reader. Too scared to look. I do peek on Ravelry now and then and keep up with everyone's projects. I find it so inspiring. But miss the details of the blogs. Maybe in October I will get to catch up.<br /><br />OCTOBER - can you believe it! 2008 is flying by. My year of lace is almost up. What will next year be - I think the year of the sweater. I am feeling a definite sweater mojo kicking up. <br /><br />So much to catch up on - and I won't do any of it justice.<br /><br />First of all - I have wheels. <br /><br />4 to be exact.<br /><br />Yes, Four. Not expensive wheels mind you, but they do add up!<br /><br />It was either a matchless or my 4 babies. I went for the quantity.<br /><br />I need to name them - but basically - they are:<br /><br />1> My Kiwi - my office wheel. She was so easy to start on. Took her out of the box, built her and was off and running right away!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2846130043/" title="IMG00060.jpg by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3203/2846130043_4493c8e9fb.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="IMG00060.jpg" /></a><br /><br />I have a bobbin and a half - and that is just because I only got to spin on her a day before I took off on a three city tour.<br /><br />Side note - Can you believe I went to Dallas, St. Pete/Tampa and New York and didn't visit one yarn shop. That proves I was very BUSY!!<br /><br />But here is a single spun on her:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2847731550/" title="IMG00047.jpg by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2266/2847731550_1279d6ef82.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="IMG00047.jpg" /></a><br /><br />So fast and easy!!<br /><br />2. Hitchhiker - this is my favorite wheel I think. My travel wheel. I used him first and had a hard time. I went back again - and did a bit better the next day but it still was rough. But go figure - I came back from vacation and can spin just fine on him. And I love carrying him on my shoulder anywhere I need him. With a baby around - he's great - I just take him out at night and carry him away in the day. Take down is seconds.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2845719613/" title="IMG00057.jpg by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3116/2845719613_5c34bdc29d.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="IMG00057.jpg" /></a><br /><br />And in travel mode:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2845741219/" title="IMG00059.jpg by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3120/2845741219_9f286b66e8.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="IMG00059.jpg" /></a><br /><br />3. Spider Chakra - I wanted to be able to spin cotton and silk, but didn't want to spend a lot of money. She's not pretty, but I'm having fun with her. But wish perhaps I had waited for something more portable.......<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2849163647/" title="IMG00054.jpg by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3137/2849163647_1a5499aff9.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="IMG00054.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Ok - I couldn't figure out cotton yet - so I wimped out with some unspun Icelandic. I'll get back to cotton......one day......<br /><br />4. And lastly - my lazy girl plying electric wheel.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2848700693/" title="IMG00052.jpg by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3002/2848700693_dd036c1a57.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="IMG00052.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Won't win any beauty prizes, but it spins FAST! Once I'm done with the joy of spinning, I want to ply fast and get to knitting. This works perfectly for that goal. Parts are cheap to - if anything get's broken and needs fixing.<br /><br />When I'm less tired, I will have to blog more on my entry into the world of wheels. I will just say I can't thank Shiori, Marie, and Nancy enough for introducing me to spinning. I LOVE it! <br /><br />Only one project to blog on before I wrap.<br /><br />My Onda Shawl. It combines several loves - shawls, Koigu, Feather N Fan, Green, Purple and Pink.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2909114126/" title="DSC01060 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3040/2909114126_d56a08ab9a.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC01060" /></a><br /><br />Once I started knitting it - I couldn't put it down. First of all to move to another Koigu color, then to see how the blended, and lastly I wanted to wear it.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2908264803/" title="DSC01056 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3204/2908264803_f7ea8a5130.jpg" width="375" height="500" alt="DSC01056" /></a><br /><br />I wanted a green base - but The Needlecraft Center had mostly purples in stock. But I managed to work in a bit of green - yay!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2908262331/" title="DSC01053 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3046/2908262331_f113a87977_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="DSC01053" /></a><br /><br />I need a photography lesson to do a better job taking pictures of it. I'm not doing it justice.<br /><br />Well - I am a good hour past when I should be in bed, so I'll stop now. But you see why I'm not blogging or reading blogs. Between work and travel - there has been so much to do! <br /><br />Happy Knitting/Spinning Y'all.<br /><br />Edit - Stacey and Doreen told me my sad photo skills is not doing the Koigu justice.<br /><br />So - a few more pics....<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2912756067/" title="IMG_3497 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3120/2912756067_6dcd70168a.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="IMG_3497" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2913600058/" title="IMG_3495 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3170/2913600058_3e5329b7f1.jpg" width="333" height="500" alt="IMG_3495" /></a>Janet Richardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404150965859368460noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10291480.post-21966039282608816692008-09-10T11:26:00.003-04:002008-09-10T11:51:26.786-04:00Anticipation, Anticipation, is making me......Stalking the mailman. My wheel(s) are on their way. Yes, WHEELS!!!!!<br /><br />The lady at the Woolery was like "um, may I asked why you ordered more than one wheel"? So - why. Well - I had budgeted for Matchless, but then I thought. Hmmmmmm - I can get a less expensive wheel for a couple of other tasks. Plus - since wheels hold their value pretty well - I can always sell it and get the Matchless later if it was a mistake.<br /><br />Soo... I ordered....<br /><br />Well - I'm going to string it out a few blogs. Why should I be the only one waiting?<br /><br />Let me get caught up on a few other projects.<br /><br />First of all - I wanted to knit Jada a fall sweater. I found this cute pattern in the One Skein book, that had never caugth my eye before but this time I fell in love with it. I roamed around Cottage yarns for an hour searching for the perfect yarn. I decided on Malabrigo, where I should have started but didn't because I didn't think it was Chunky enough.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2836485448/" title="DSC00994 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3140/2836485448_bea8974e9a_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="DSC00994" /></a><br /><br />This project is full of colors I love - and for a baby it's pefect. Squishy soft, colorful (she won't get lost!), warm, loose, moveable, easy to take on and off. Plus - it was a fast knit. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2818402028/" title="DSC00955 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3111/2818402028_1c5ea3beb5.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC00955" /></a><br /><br />See - fits her perfectl - ie. a little loose with room to grow! I decided to crochet the buttons with advice from Doreen and Jenny. I had a fruitless search for buttons, but they were right. Crochet buttons were perfect - I don't have to worry about lead in the metal buttons I was looking at and/or a choking hazard.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2836486664/" title="DSC00995 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3255/2836486664_c766c94033.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC00995" /></a><br /><br />This is my favorite project in a while. It makes me want to make sweaters, something I've never wanted to knit before.<br /><br />So - I stareted another one - Victorian Baby Tee - for Jada with Serendipty Tweed.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2831618372/" title="IMG00042.jpg by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3227/2831618372_a78e2797c8.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="IMG00042.jpg" /></a><br /><br />I love the color, the lace and the garter bands. I also love the neckline of the sweater. This is going to be another favorite project.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2831034404/" title="IMG00041.jpg by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3124/2831034404_8a02fe1809.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="IMG00041.jpg" /></a><br /><br />I'm working on a ton of lace scarves for Christmas gifts. My gift of choice this year. Not sure if I will make it on all of them. I get a little bored....<br /><br />Have you seen the newest knitting magazine out? I am in LOVE with so many patterns in this little gem. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2835648607/" title="DSC00993 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3181/2835648607_12c9be9e48.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC00993" /></a><br /><br />I'm not a fan of the DB yarns, to pricy with too little yardage for me. But she knows how to make an attractive patterns. Her sloucy beret is on my short list of fall projects. Just working on the perfect yarn for it....<br /><br />Look at these little friends in our yard/garage:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2836481238/" title="DSC00992 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3156/2836481238_3fda49df42.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC00992" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2835640285/" title="DSC00989 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3102/2835640285_0dc75b6972.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC00989" /></a><br /><br />Sorry for the blurry picture on the last one. I was trying not to get to close, he was a bit jumpy. Ha, Ha, Ha :) <br /><br />What's up with Coat's and other company tring to get exotic on us? The Auntie Lydia line has come out with a Bamboo Thread - that looks exactly like a high price lace yarn. For $2.49!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2831469919/" title="DSC00988 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3198/2831469919_a081eb319b.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC00988" /></a><br /><br />So - of course I got some to experiment with.<br /><br />I'm currently obsessed with My Onda shawl. You take 7 Koigu colorways that vary from dark to light or really anyway you want them to - and blend them.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2843954752/" title="IMG00056.jpg by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3096/2843954752_5c80b0edb5.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="IMG00056.jpg" /></a><br /><br />I'm knitting each section obsessed with joining in the next yarn - I'm so excited to see them together. I think this will be my travel project over the next few weeks while I visit Dallas, St. Petersburg FL, and New York in order. Lots of plane, airport time to hopefully get her finished. And she will be a great conference shawl for the next batch of conferences I will have to travel to.<br /><br />Let me end with some pOrn - of the yarn variety.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2831462237/" title="DSC00981 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3177/2831462237_75d90eb508.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC00981" /></a><br /><br />Camelspin, Vintage, Pure Luxury. Yum.<br /><br />Next blog - I will be spinning. Squee!Janet Richardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404150965859368460noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10291480.post-19412912099208181542008-08-27T22:27:00.006-04:002008-08-27T23:23:59.117-04:00A Golden GiftLookie Lookie what my sister gave me for my birthday. It just arrived, and I am sooooooooooo excited.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2804954904/" title="DSC00919 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3119/2804954904_3c09e0fcde.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC00919" /></a><br /><br />Ooooh - A Golding!!!!!!!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2804955874/" title="DSC00920 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3122/2804955874_1106f2645c.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC00920" /></a><br /><br />The excitment builds - which Golding is it. There is not a bad one.....<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2804110269/" title="DSC00921 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3061/2804110269_0d0efaff79.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC00921" /></a><br /><br />Aromatherepy? In a spindle? Lavender? So relaxing. What a great idea!<br /><br />Let me describe my spindle. It has the distinctive Golding brass ring. You see it and know it's a Golding. It's quality in a spindle. Solid feel but lightweight. It has a little pot at the top to hold a bit of cotton with an essential oil. So you can receive healing aroma while spinning. It comes with a 1/2 fl oz. of Mood Mender - a mix of Clary Sage, Lemon and Lavender. Ahhhhhhh. I need that. After having a headache for a day and a half - non-stop - it's such a soothing scent.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2804961096/" title="DSC00923 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3034/2804961096_acf64b793e.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC00923" /></a><br /><br />The cherry wood is luxurious. The detail in the top whorl is a fan shape. It spins a lovely circle when the spindle is in use. The Walnut shaft (7 3/4") has smooth grooves about half way down to give the spindle a nice grip, but then is smooth and solid in the upper half to hold the spun yarn. <br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2804963638/" title="DSC00925 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3105/2804963638_8c75d4db24.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC00925" /></a><br /><br />The whole spindle is .95oz - light.<br /><br />And I almost forgot - this was not her only gift to me!!! She made a lovely trade on Ravelry for this beautiful lace yarn.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2804947746/" title="DSC00913 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3142/2804947746_15981ecc9d.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC00913" /></a><br /><br />I can't wait to make someting soft and warm with it. As well as spin someting extra special on my Golding.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2805004896/" title="DSC00922 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3162/2805004896_7ae14681c6.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC00922" /></a><br /><br />I Lurve it!!!! Thank you so much <a href="http://mom2rays.blogspot.com">Doreen</a> <br /><br />I've been so lax in blogging and even worse in reading blogs. Between work, vacation, start of school - I'm so out of touch. Sorry my friends for not keeping up on your knitting adventures - I've got a lot of reading on Google Reader to catch up on soon.<br /><br />My knitting has also slowed down - I'm working on Christmas gifts - lace scarves. I have several in progess - and started the final ones. If I get them all done by Christmas I will be so pleased.<br /><br />I'm using a diagonal lace pattern that is easy but I like the look. The first one is in SWTC TOFUtsies - and I love the color and yarn.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2804945410/" title="DSC00911 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3277/2804945410_311f4ec0ec.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC00911" /></a><br /><br />I expecially love the mix of yellows, browns, oranges, and even a pale green. Beautiful. I should have picked up another ball for socks! This was a beach purchase at my Myrtle Beach shop away from home - Knit -n- Purl run by Phyllis and Terry. Once you meet them, you will love them they are so sweet. I'm looking forward to seeing them in December when we are there for Christmas, and maybe a bit of Christmas yarn shopping :)<br /><br />And I loved the pattern so much - I started another one for my friend Connie who loves the color Red. It's hard for me to find Red yarn. I found some Red Alpaca, and am making a scarf in that too. But I think this one will work best for Connie. I'm using Baruffa Cashwool. Very soft, and tons of yardage for not a lot of money. And as I picked this up at Pacific Wool and Fiber when it was closing - it was even less expensive at 50% off! I want to make it nice and long, lacy, but light.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2804102251/" title="DSC00914 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3165/2804102251_1920017fa2.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC00914" /></a><br /><br />I started Hey Teach - but thanks to the Olympics had THREE holes in the stockinette portion. I frogged it back to before the wholes and haven't done much on it b/c I hate frogging and am a bit miffed. But I saw Doreen's and am getting over it - I think I'll start back on it soon.<br /><br />Schools back in session. And I'm definately "Meh." about it. The weekly Monday onslaught of paperwork has something to do with it. So far - so good. I can't believe I have a 4th and 2nd grader!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2796241552/" title="first day of school 2008.jpg by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3151/2796241552_2754bdce1c.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="first day of school 2008.jpg" /></a><br /><br />I'll have to blog about our vacation - it was fabulous. We had a lot of time to relax as well as spend time with some of my college friends who were vacationing the same time as us. We enjoyed vacating at the same time and location with them so much, we are hoping for a larger group of friends next year. It was fun to get the families together, and to have our next generation develop friendships at the same time. I have a ton of pictures on our <a href="http://cnj4.spaces.live.com/">family blog</a>.<br /><br />I'm typing this while watching the DNC. I've been so impressed each night. I hope we get it right in Novemember as a nation. The stakes are so high. So - if you haven't registered. Do it NOW!Janet Richardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404150965859368460noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10291480.post-91155823914678818682008-08-15T00:08:00.004-04:002008-08-15T00:26:43.426-04:00Off to a slow startThe Beijing Olympics have been fabulous. The opening ceremonies - breath-taking.<br /><br />My Ravelymics - not so much.<br /><br />I did finish one project - start to finish:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2764732068/" title="DSC00902 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3123/2764732068_df10522a12.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC00902" /></a><br /><br />I used <a href="http://handmaiden.ca/yarn.html">Handmaiden Camel Spin</a>. The online reviews were that the yarn was to die for. I somehow ended up with colors I was not in love with. And when I got it - I was less than impressed. It felt like cotton to me, not the silky soft I was expecting. But after knitting with it the fabric grew on my - and I love the result now. It almost has golden tones to it. I think it will be a gift - a pricy one- but I'm glad I used it. It was in my sell stash for a while, but I decided I couldn't get what I paid for it and I'm glad I decided to make a special scarf for someone. Camel hair - that's rare! The pattern is <a href="http://knitspot.com/?p=665">Rivolo</a> - it was a easy - but didn't make the nice little rivers at first. Once I tightened my gauge it was better. It knits on a bias - so it's hard to see - you have to block it severely to get the nice pattern. All in all - a nice fast pattern that looks more complicated than it is. The scarf is a little short, but functional - and I may make it narrower if I make it again. The yarn was classed as laceweight, but it worked out closer to fingering with size 5 needles in my book. <br /><br />I also made a market bag - finally!!!!!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2758468375/" title="IMG00037.jpg by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3237/2758468375_d029ef4540.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="IMG00037.jpg" /></a><br /><br />I found this new yarn at the Ben Franklin in Redmond - NaturLin - a Rayon/Linen blend. It looks like Linen, but with a softer hand and very shiny. Less rough to work with, but strong. I tried to break it when I was on the plane without scissors. NOT. Almost tore my skin.<br /><br />The pattern was called <a href="http://www.berroco.com/270.275/273/273_hadley_mini_pv.html"> Hadley Mini</a> although there was nothing 'mini' about the bag at all. It holds 4 HUGE balls of cotton yarn.<br /><br />I loved the yarn and pattern. I will use both again.<br /><br />I'll close with a few pictures of Sweetie with her shawl:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2740959987/" title="DSC00897 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3123/2740959987_1ff5559689.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC00897" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2740957265/" title="DSC00893 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3176/2740957265_e938b444f4_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="DSC00893" /></a><br /><br />Next week - we are headed to Myrtle Beach for the week and I get to work on Hey Teach! and hopefully make up for my slow start. Happy Knitting everyone!Janet Richardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404150965859368460noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10291480.post-35238624488222875592008-08-06T23:00:00.006-04:002008-08-07T01:13:01.931-04:00Take TwoMy browser just blew away my entry. This is take number two. I so do not need this right now.<br /><br />This was going to be a long entry. We will see now. I have a lot to update as I've been away so long on the blog. Travel, summer camp, work, LIFE. I'm still knitting, never fear. And spinning too. I've done very little blog reading - so I'm out of touch with my virtual knitting friends too. Here is hoping life returns to something resembling normal in September!<br /><br />Hmmmm, let's start with a few yarn purchases of note. For my birthday my sister totally enabled me to pick up <a href="http://www.schaeferyarn.com/yrn_andrea.html">Schaefer Andrea</a> in the colorway Rosa Parks. Even if you don't see the yarn, it sounds beautiful doesn't it? But the deep hues that the silk just soaked up are so lovely. I have it in a nice little ball waiting for a little treat for me.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2712134246/" title="DSC00875 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3279/2712134246_df3089e5a6.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC00875" /></a><br /><br />The photo doesn't do it justice.<br /><br />Another great find is <a href="http://www.shopknitch.com/">Knitch</a>. I was able to visit when in Atlanta at a conference in July. I have no pictures. But I found the softest laceweight cotton you can imagine. Habu Cotton Boucle:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2693908561/" title="DSC00868 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3262/2693908561_ef4bbcf9e0.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC00868" /></a><br /><br />I fell in love. Another project I will be not wanting to part with.....<br /><br />They had lot of Habu - I was in bliss in the display that housed these yarns. I of course had to get the Kusha, Kusha scarf kit - and am almost done with my first one. I will love wearing this mixture of silk and wool this fall.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2701949008/" title="IMG00033.jpg by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3051/2701949008_5e1771d119.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="IMG00033.jpg" /></a><br /><br />I have a Black/Green kit too! I will perhaps gift this scarf. Then again - green is my favorite color these days! I actually want to try this scarf with Jojoland Harmony. I think I will like to subtle color changes and the wool weight is close to the Habu wool. So I may just use the green wool for another project as my sister gifted me another cone of it - so I have enough for something bigger.<br /><br />I've been knitting shawls again recently. Today I wrapped up one for my daugter. I used <a href="http://naturallycaron.com/shade_cards/spa_sh.html">naturallycaron Spa</a>. It's a Acrylic/Bamboo blend, and makes a super soft fabric. I was so pleasantly surprised at how it knitted up. I had used some before for a baby kimono (disaster, not the yarn but my effort). But perhaps because it was dyed, it didn't seem as soft. This was soft and squishy in the Naturally colorway. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2733153653/" title="DSC00878 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3152/2733153653_aec7743c99.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC00878" /></a><br /><br />The pattern is Angel Lace by Evelyn Clark. I thought it is perfect for a shawl for her in church where she is always cold. I didn't tell her I was making it until today when it was done. She loves it, so I'm glad I kept it a surprise. I forgot to show her the little angel pattern, I'll have to tell her that later. I think she will like that.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2733983370/" title="DSC00877 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3282/2733983370_03ac6cfb7a.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC00877" /></a><br /><br />I put little glittery blue pony beads at the end to add a bit of her favorite color and make it special for her. I had her pick out the beads w/o telling her what it was for.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2740528082/" title="DSC00886 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3194/2740528082_1b8b9b00e3.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC00886" /></a><br /><br /><br />It's soaking now, I'll have to post pictures once it was blocked. But she did get to try it out tonight.<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2740527368/" title="DSC00885 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2294/2740527368_52ab5efaa4.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC00885" /></a><br /><br />Update: <br /><br />Here it is blocking.....<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2740834924/" title="DSC00888 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3268/2740834924_d77b74bc13.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC00888" /></a><br /><br />On a work note - this was one of the most interesting weeks of my career. My job is being relocated to Washington. Not surprising because despite the frequent travel - I really needed to be there full-time. It could have been a RIF, but I am being offered another job. And 3 days to accept it. I'm full of mixed feelings - it's a significant career change for me. High profile, and sort of exciting. Almost too exciting. Like going down in flames with a new job I know nothing about, creating a bit ole mess exciting. Nothing like fear of failure to get the heart racing. So - this week knitting has been a refuge. I've got to make a decision by Friday, but the decision is basically this or good luck finding something else in NC when 70+ other people at the site with similar skills are looking. So I know what I am going to do, I'm just burying my head a bit before I put it in writing.<br /><br />Let's get off this topic - too much reality is sinking in.<br /><br />I'm gearing up for Ravelymics. I'm most excited about <a href="http://knitty.com/ISSUEsummer08/PATTheyteach.html">Hey Teach!</a>. I picked up the yarn on my birthday as well.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2712131366/" title="DSC00871 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3087/2712131366_7e363487f7.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC00871" /></a><br /><br />Doreen is doing it with me in the same colorway. Squee!<br /><br />I have some other things lined up - tackling WIPs, and a lace project. I'm sort of tempted to use my Rosa Parks, I guess I need to decide by tomorrow! Yikes!<br /><br />Well - it's late and 45 mins past when I was supposed to head out for my walk. And I forgot I need to block Janeen's shawl before bed. Nite, nite.Janet Richardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404150965859368460noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10291480.post-85125550407155347362008-07-13T00:47:00.003-04:002008-07-13T01:04:38.786-04:00Travel ProjectsI'm on the road 3 weeks in July. I'm especially bummed because I was in Seattle last week, sick (again) and didn't get to go to any of my favorite places. Especially to Crossroads to see the Eastside Stitchers <grumble, grumble>.<br /><br />So - I'm not chatty. I've got another cold that turned into a sinus infection, so lots of late night coughing and very little sleeping. Travelling while sick is not fun, and I'm sure my plane partners and the people I was in town to meet probably wish I had stayed home. But the meetings sort of had to happen - and all things considered it was probably good I went. <grumble, grumble> but that doesn't mean I have to be happy about it!<br /><br />Next week - I'm in Atlanta for a company conference and meetings. Grrrr.<br /><br />But then the week after that - we head to Asheville to take Janeen to Summer Camp. Smile. Finally, a trip I'm happy about!<br /><br />So - while on the road - I'm knitting socks and crocheting.<br /><br />First - My flat feet socks:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2662430199/" title="DSC00822 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3241/2662430199_a9a584c4c7.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC00822" /></a><br /><br />See the fabric, you can see the results of unravelling, but as I've said before, I sort of like it. It should all block out though. I also like the mini-stripes that are forming in the foot. Better than the pooling in the ribbing.<br /><br />As if I didn't have enough socks on the needles - I felt a desperate need for some travel socks. Soft ones. Panda Wool is very yummy and fits the criteria nicely.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2663254944/" title="DSC00821 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3225/2663254944_932457b1f5.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC00821" /></a><br /><br />Travel socks you may say. Typically - I'm not really a sock person most days. I like my feet free and loose and wear flip flops most of the summer. I do wear my handmade socks in the house, in lieu of slippers. But rarely are my socks seen in public - except when I travel. I hate taking off my shoes barefoot and I also hate wearing shoes on the plane. Now that I make my own socks - they are perfect for travelling. Comfortable and perfectly fit for me.<br /><br />Here are my feet with Socks and my favorite travelling shoes in Minneapolis - waiting for the plane during a thunderstorm. The picture was taken with my cell phone, so excuse the quality.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2656539368/" title="IMG00030.jpg by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3117/2656539368_95faac8146_o.jpg" width="528" height="400" alt="IMG00030.jpg" /></a><br /><br />So - if you haven't started knitting socks yet. You have to give it a try!<br /><br />Lastly - My crochet shawl was my travel project of choice this trip. And she made progress:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2663220218/" title="IMG00017.jpg by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3291/2663220218_9e40d7c515.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="IMG00017.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Not as much as the socks...<br /><br />Next week I hope to visit Knitch in Atlanta, that will be a nice little side trip? If only I can go and keep my wallet out of danger - I'll have to let you know how it goes next post :)Janet Richardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404150965859368460noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10291480.post-65921238057621899462008-07-06T16:42:00.005-04:002008-07-06T17:47:46.067-04:00Little bit of this, little bit of thatI have several big projects I want to do - but for some reason I'm gravitating to little projects these days. The Charity wash clothes are the perfect project for this mood. Especially - with the bright and variety of colors available in the cotton yarns. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2642893511/" title="DSC00803 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3121/2642893511_20ca293d26.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC00803" /></a><br /><br />Each one is fun and colorful, but I'm done before I get too bored. I can also finish a row while waiting for the kids to get off a ride at the Carowinds or Spash Country - so it's a great travel project too.<br /><br />I finished 3 this week, and am working on the 4th.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2643721694/" title="DSC00802 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3112/2643721694_acbcacbd7b.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC00802" /></a><br /><br />I've been making this from the booklet "Knit Dishcloth Sampler" I like that these are all large - 50 stitches across. Except for the one I knit diagonally, that's just a plain diagonal, garter pattern. My default pattern when knitting totally mindlessly.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2642891837/" title="DSC00801 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3024/2642891837_78ce5cc7fe.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC00801" /></a><br /><br />This yarn - Salt and Pepper in Lily Cotton - makes me think of Cows. :) I knitted most of this at Carowinds after the "Night of Fire" fireworks on the 4th. The fireworks were truly impressive. But even more impressive is the total lack of ability to leave the parking lot for 2 hours. With - 3 cranky, tired and thirsty kids. If we ever go back - we will leave a lot earlier! I can't believe they planned the traffic control so poorly.<br /><br />I've also been knitting socks for the same reason - small and mindless.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2642894575/" title="DSC00804 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3172/2642894575_bfed031100.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC00804" /></a><br /><br />I started this one on Sock-Ease - I wanted to test out the new Lion Brand yarn and I like the colors. I so far have not been able to tell there is any Aloe Vera in the yarn, but it's not bad to work with. May be a tad bit crunchier than most yarns. Definitely not as nice as the high-end yarns, but a nice yarn for $9 a pair of socks. Good yarn for kids socks.<br /><br />I also have been working away of my Flat Feet socks.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2642895513/" title="DSC00805 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3131/2642895513_f71456d18c.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC00805" /></a><br /><br />I do love the feel of this yarn, very soft. Because it has been knitted, it has a crinkle too it after knitting - but the sock yarn maker said it will block out. If it doesn't - oh well - I sort of like it :)<br /><br />I found some crochet flowers I had made using craft floss - I love the colors - and the yarn is glossy and very colorful. I was playing with the color combinations. I would like to find something to make it into - a throw or shawl. But I haven't decided and am not looking forward to sewing a bunch of flowers together. So who knows. For now - they just look pretty on their own :)<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2643425284/" title="DSC00793 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3166/2643425284_e624f69104.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC00793" /></a><br /><br />I also found some Bookmarks I crochet as gifts. I had forgotten about them, but they do make nice quick gifts. I made these out of Opera crochet thread, but I wonder how it would look with a lace-weight wool, starched.....hmmmm...<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2643416614/" title="DSC00783 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3110/2643416614_07b55a0544.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC00783" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2643413210/" title="DSC00779 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3148/2643413210_e4ab6e3360.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC00779" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2643412472/" title="DSC00778 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3016/2643412472_a49a4ec4c3.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC00778" /></a><br /><br />Just a few :)Janet Richardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404150965859368460noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10291480.post-47319426744586988552008-06-21T17:59:00.004-04:002008-06-21T18:21:38.429-04:00Kinko's is my friendI've been wanting to do this for a while. I've found so many free patterns on the internet - especially now through Ravelry. They quickly get out of control. Especially some of the new shawl patterns are several pages with charts. Interweave Knits also published a multi-page 5 Top Patterns. I have them all saved on disk, but I like having the hard-copies. But don't want to kill to many trees, reprinting them. What to do?<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2598148667/" title="DSC00709 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3172/2598148667_d3c10c9eb7.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC00709" /></a><br /><br />Bind those babies! FedExKinko's is about 1 mile from my house. The trip was worth it - I brought my little expandable folder of patterns. And 9 bindings later I was a happy girl. I bound several lace shawl patterns, a great Shetland Lace book I bought on Etsy by Elizabeth Lovick. A great little mini-lace class with scarf, bookmarks, shawl, charts, lots of great info. But 65 pages, too much to manage loose leaf.<br /><br />I'm going to bind some more when I have time to sort it out. It's easier to work with. I might even bind some knitting magazines - it would be much easier to work with the pattern when I can fold it flat. I wouldn't want to do it for every magazine. Just the ones with several patterns I love.<br /><br />I'm making progress on my socks - Two of my socks who started the week at the gusset are now almost to the toe! Here is one of them, an Opal Rainforest yarn with colors I Love. Why did I take so long to get these on my feet!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2598981440/" title="DSC00708 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3072/2598981440_b0def857d8.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC00708" /></a><br /><br />Opal yarn is as good as it's reputation. It's deceptively soft, and I believe it will wear well. It just looks solid and durable. But the colors are lovely. Especially in their Rainforest series. This sock was the Peacock yarn, I need to decide what animal I will knit up next. I like the caterpillar yarn - a nice green with browns and yellows. Maybe that one.<br /><br />And Doreen reminded me of a project that is over 10 years old. I dug it out to post pictures on Ravelry. I had one of these given to me as a little girl. I played with it in church, and Doreen did too. When I saw the pattern - before I had my babies - I knew I had to crochet it. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2598983062/" title="DSC00711 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3098/2598983062_ebdf927317.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC00711" /></a><br /><br />Everything except a bit of cardboard inside for stability and the doll is crocheted. I made this 10 years ago before I knew of "nice" yarn. I want to make it again with some lovely fingering. Maybe some hand-painted sock yarns?<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2598150285/" title="DSC00712 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3007/2598150285_9a6943ae42.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC00712" /></a><br /><br />It has a hidden basket in the bottom for extra clothes and dolls. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2598985992/" title="DSC00716 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3051/2598985992_4e68fa0ae0.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC00716" /></a><br /> I<br />This tells you how much I used to crochet before I discovered knitting. It's a great art form - and I love it for projects like toys. It's sturdy and durable. Even though this is over 10 years old, and endured a toddler/little girl play from my oldest. It looks as good as the first day, except a few ends I need to weave back in. Of course - Red Heart yarn doesn't hurt. You can't damage the stuff from what I can see. Back then, Red Heart was all I knew!<br /><br />I have several afghans I need to photo and upload to Ravelry, and I know I gave several away that I don't have any record of. It makes me a bit nostalgic for crochet. Maybe I need to find a nice crochet pattern to mix into my WIPs.Janet Richardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404150965859368460noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10291480.post-80386108260954100922008-06-17T14:26:00.004-04:002008-06-19T10:55:22.776-04:00"Only the Lonely"Only the lonely sock, knows how it feels........<br /><br />I have a bad 2nd sock syndrome going on. As I have been cataloging stash, I've been finding various socks in progress - none of them complete. June and July are dedicated to completing these socks pairs......<br /><br /><div><embed src="http://widget-01.slide.com/widgets/slideticker.swf" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" quality="high" scale="noscale" salign="l" wmode="transparent" flashvars="cy=bb&il=1&channel=1441151880775766785&site=widget-01.slide.com" style="width:400px;height:320px" name="flashticker" align="middle"></embed><div style="width:400px;text-align:left;"><a href="http://www.slide.com/pivot?cy=bb&at=fl&id=1441151880775766785&map=1" target="_blank"><img src="http://widget-01.slide.com/p1/1441151880775766785/bb_t000_v000_s0fl_f00/images/xslide1.gif" border="0" ismap="ismap" /></a> <a href="http://www.slide.com/pivot?cy=bb&at=fl&id=1441151880775766785&map=2" target="_blank"><img src="http://widget-01.slide.com/p2/1441151880775766785/bb_t000_v000_s0fl_f00/images/xslide2.gif" border="0" ismap="ismap" /></a> <a href="http://www.slide.com/pivot?cy=bb&at=fl&id=1441151880775766785&map=F" target="_blank"><img src="http://widget-01.slide.com/p4/1441151880775766785/bb_t000_v000_s0fl_f00/images/xslide42.gif" border="0" ismap="ismap" /></a></div></div><br /><br />A little ode to my lonely socks. Here is to several new sock pairs over the next two months.<br /><br />I know I should knit 2 at a time, but I have a huge mental block against it. I guess I think it will reduce the portability having 2 long needles and two balls of yarn. Plus, I'm worried it will end up in a tangled mess.<br /><br />I also love sock yarn - there are so many pretty yarns out there and it's so easy to cast on.....<br /><br />Lastly - I always get stuck at the gusset. I go so fast on the leg and the foot, but the gusset bores me for some reason. If I could figure out the short-row heel perhaps I could jump over this hurdle. But for some reason I've never been able to complete one that I thought looked as good as a gusset heel.<br /><br />Update: Check out my Meez! I've seen them on other sites, so I had to get me one. She's a little thicker - like Me. :) I couldn't get the face and eyes just right, it was taking too much time. I'll have to work on her when I have some more time.Janet Richardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404150965859368460noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10291480.post-43181210363579403162008-06-07T14:28:00.003-04:002008-06-07T20:47:35.043-04:00Hemlock Anyone?She's done!!!!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2559165364/" title="DSC00653 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3046/2559165364_0ee878afd0.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC00653" /></a><br /><br />And I get to use my Mother's Day gift - Knitter's Block! It's not big enough - so she spills over the sides. But I love it!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2559166268/" title="DSC00654 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3256/2559166268_3ae71ab09a.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC00654" /></a><br /><br />Jada loves Hemlock too!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2559138905/" title="DSC00668 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3104/2559138905_7955ceca94.jpg" width="375" height="500" alt="DSC00668" /></a><br /><br />As previously mentioned, the cast off takes a while, but after you get used to it, it is not too bad. I will still use the crochet cast-off for any future versions.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2559956030/" title="DSC00660 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3126/2559956030_e989fa17c8.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC00660" /></a><br /><br />And - Hemlock has a sister Rona that is coming along....<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2559163886/" title="DSC00651 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3085/2559163886_23a44715e3.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC00651" /></a><br /><br />I lurve Rona. She is silky and sexy.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2558338033/" title="DSC00649 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3186/2558338033_fc2a6e9d1c.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC00649" /></a><br /><br />And she is not boring, while it's pretty easy to see what is going on. Each row is sort of different. There is some knitted lace, some lace knitting, even some ribbing which I had not done in lace before. She keeps you going each round. I only wish she had a chart - too many words! But not to difficult to visualize and follow what is going on.<br /><br />Baby girl has rice all over her face, Babee Tenda and bib. I question how much is in her stomach. Back to being a mommy.Janet Richardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404150965859368460noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10291480.post-488150513301321622008-06-05T02:22:00.006-04:002008-06-05T02:39:56.099-04:00Things not to do when you are tired1. Knit lace. I had to take a break from knitting lace before I made a mistake - and especially since I have no life line.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2549958276/" title="DSC00646 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3019/2549958276_ce18935400.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC00646" /></a><br /><br />I will leave SanDiego on row 58 of the <a href="http://www.knitpicks.com/Patterns/Inside_Images.aspx?id=50471221&title=Rona Lace Shawl Pattern&author=Anna Marie Jensen">Rona Lace Shawl</a>. I got to attend NONE of the conference I came to attend and I didn't get to go back to LaJolla or see the Ocean. Waah. Instead - I spent the week in the hotel room with a cold. Use my best Godfather voice in phone meetings and work on my shawl.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2549960480/" title="DSC00647 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3159/2549960480_155aba0cdc.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC00647" /></a><br /><br />In case you missed my ravings about Curious Creek Meru - this is one nice yarn. I have loved every moment of knitting with this and will absolutely luv wearing it.<br /><br />3. Suduko. I stink at suduko when tired.<br /><br />4. Find a movie on TV, there is never anything good to find on TV when tired.<br /><br />5. Listen to NPR. Love, love NPR. But not when I'm tired.<br /><br />6. Take surveys to test your smartness. for some fun - I saw this on <a href="http://yeaiknit.com/blog">Dani's</a> and <a href="http://merelyasuggestion.blogspot.com/">Jane's</a> blogs. It gave me a headache, because I was tired and was trying to think. Mistake.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.stupidtester.com/ref.html"><br /><img src="http://www.stupidtester.com/badge/8941c2d1c9ff0bca.jpg" alt="StupidTester.com says I'm 19% Stupid! How stupid are you? Click Here!"><br /></a><br /><br />I'm not sure if I'm 19% Stupid. But I am 99% tired.<br /><br />7. Blog. Nuff said.<br /><br />Good Night.Janet Richardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404150965859368460noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10291480.post-17700246143270250012008-06-03T21:18:00.003-04:002008-06-03T21:22:06.293-04:00Historic NightThere are not too many times in your life you witness history being made.<br /><br />I can recall September 11, 2001 and the tragic realization that I would remember that day the rest of my life. It was the first time I had the feeling of being a part of history, even just by witnessing the news on TV.<br /><br />But tonight is a proud historic moment. As an African-American my heart soars and the tears fall. I will remember this day for the rest of my life.Janet Richardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404150965859368460noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10291480.post-32216883629081260222008-05-31T22:17:00.005-04:002008-05-31T23:05:22.327-04:00On the Road AgainWell - I can't say "Just can't wait to get back on the road again", so let's just settle for I'm on the road. This week I'm in Sunny San Diego at the ASTD International conference. I'm excited about the conference and the opportunity for training. But it's a killer time at work, I'm not sure how much conference I will actually be able to attend - and I'm missing my family after being away 2 weeks ago.<br /><br />One benefit of traveling frequently is getting a little taste of Local Yarn Shops in different places. This is my first time back to San Diego as a knitter, so I'm taking a few roadtrips during my stay. Today I stopped at <strong>Knitting in La Jolla</strong> recommended to my by my Seattle knitting field Marie. It was a nice little shop stuffed absolutely full of yarn. There was hardly an inch to turn around in. I frequently had to move out of the way when someone needed to pass. But they had THREE great finds there. The first was <strong> Curious Creek Fibers Meru</strong>, a Merino and Silk Laceweight yarn. This was the recommended yarn for Goddess Knits Mystery Shawl 7 and it was pretty on her site. But it was stunning in real life. The yarn is shimmery - it almost glimmers. Silk/wool blends are rarely not pretty, but this is just special. And the Semi-Solids are just lovely. I picked out an Orange and Plum blends. I'm using my hotel yarn winder - AKA an up-side down table - to wind the Plum now, I'm CO tonight so I have something to work on at the conference. I have an idea for a great portable project I can make progress on this week while listening to sessions.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2539537111/" title="DSC00639 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2395/2539537111_279c1c1812.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC00639" /></a><br /><br />I dont' know which color way is lovlier.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2540347462/" title="DSC00636 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3074/2540347462_6d5b47c4c0.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC00636" /></a><br /><br />And there were several more that I had to pass over to settle on these two. I didn't see a colorway I didn't like, at that's rare!<br /><br />Another find was <strong>Conjoined Creations Flat Feet</strong>. I have seen it in magazines, but wanted to see it in real life. The concept is the company machine knits the yarn and then "paints it" while knit. Then you unravel it as you knit the socks. It has a section in the middle you can cut if you want to make socks 2 at a time. Because it is painted as knitted instead of in a hand, each one is unique. Creative huh? I've been focusing on lace yarn versus sock yarn lately - but I could not resist......<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2539516367/" title="DSC00632 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2172/2539516367_51ab03fba7.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC00632" /></a><br /><br />I picked up two of them, this is just one of the pictures. I have few details here on my blog because it's all in ><a href="http://www.ravelry.com">Ravelry</a> under my username jc3smama. I just don't have the energy to duplicate it all on the blog. I figure if you really want to know you can look it up! I have the good/bad/ugly stash story for all to see. Well not *all* but I'm getting there.<br /><br />Lastly - they had this huge display of little balls of yarn every color you could imagine. Solid and heathered. All lace-weight. I asked what that was all about, because it didn't really look knitting yarn. I wondered if it was a new needlepoint yarn or something. It is new - The company EPiC creates yarn for commerical knitting. But she is branching into a yarn that can be knit, sewn, used for needlepoint, and many other uses. The base yarn is lace weight - but you use it single, double, triple or quad based on the thickness you want for knitting. You can also mix the yarn in creative ways to get differnt effects. It's something to play with and I didn't have time. It looked fun - I picked up two balls to play with because she really didn't have yarn to "buy" - she let's her customers play with the colors they want and then order the number of balls they need. Since I was from out of town, she graciously let me take two of her colors so her customers won't be able to play with them. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2539523539/" title="DSC00635 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3105/2539523539_9ce257e8cd.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC00635" /></a><br /><br />Intersting concept, I wonder if it will catch on?<br /><br />So - Knitting in La Jolla is a winner. I would go back if I came back to San Deigo, no doubt.<br /><br />I also went by The Needlecraft Center. Funny - same name as a LYS in Davidson NC :) I wasn't so impressed, it was like the Davidson shop with Needlecraft and Knitting/Crochet. But the lace selection was tiny - only Malabrigo Lace (of which I have a more than enough) so I passed on it. I didn't see anything there I had not seen before.<br /><br />Not a shop I would go back to. <br /><br />Thankfully - there is about oh 15 or so more shops in the area. I will get to visit a few more in the week. Yipee - lunch breaks will be fun!<br /><br />I also went to Seattle and visited my two favorite shops there - <strong>Weaving Works</strong> and <strong>Acorn Street Shop</strong>. I left a sizable portion of my wages in Seattle, let's just say.<br /><br />I'm especially happy about my <strong>Greensleeves</strong> Spindle. She is the must be the most balanced spindle I have because she spins <em>forever</em>. There were cuter ones, but this one was the best performer of the ones I tested. They had wheels too, but I resisted.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2540325708/" title="DSC00621 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3151/2540325708_6f547d8499.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC00621" /></a><br /><br />I also picked up some fiber - Soy Silk and Soy Silk/Cashmere - that I think will be fun to spin. I picked up some Organic Cotton for Doreen - as well as a WPI tool for both of us. <br /><br />Here is some Merino on my new spindle.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2540326372/" title="DSC00622 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3096/2540326372_48e18712a1.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC00622" /></a><br /><br />I learned to spin on a wheel!!! Shiori (who taught me to spin on a spindle) was teaching a class, so her husband Shane brought her wheel to the meet up and taught me to spin!!! I dont' know if I'm more impressed that he gave up an evening or that he knows how to spin. I'm so appreciative because I AM IN LOVE WITH SPINNING ON A WHEEL!!!!!! He taught me on a Schacht Matchless and so now I think I want a Schacht Ladybug - I'm a bit spoiled on some of the features.<br /><br /><br />While in Seattle - I picked up some Crystal Palac Panda Silk yarn - and started a Christmas Gift scarf. It's a cable and lace pattern that is easy but lovely - I will use it again. The yarn is soo soft - it feels like a cloud on your neck. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2539485055/" title="DSC00613 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2088/2539485055_084a82bd5b.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC00613" /></a><br /><br />I also picked up Classic Elite Silky Alpaca Lace and started another gift scarf. This another new - and luxur<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2539496805/" title="DSC00617 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3109/2539496805_c18d18df00.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC00617" /></a><br /><br />I'm done with the first and almost with the 2nd. Two more gifts out of the way. I think that's 4 scarves out of fingering or lace weight done for Christmas. Guess what my theme is this year? After all - it is my <strong> Year of Lace </strong>.<br /><br /><br />I'm casting off my Hemlock - during my brief stay at home I decided to wrap it up and cost off. I had only about 1/5th of it left when I had to leave, I'll finish it up when I get back. It is one fugly mess right now, so no inprogess pictures until it's blocked. I can tell, though, after it's blocked I will love it. It will be my home office lap blanket. The Cast Off is ackward and takes a long, long time. Had I thought about it for 1/2 a second, I would have done a crochet loop bind-off. Better believe that when I do another Hemlock, that is what I will be doing. The knitted version isn't worth the extra time IMHO.<br /><br />So - I told <a href="http://crimsonpurl.blogspot.com">Stacey</a> that I would take pictures of the LYS I visited on the road. I had the best of intentions, my camera was......in my car each time. This week I walked out of Knitting in La Jolla about 1/2 a block and turned to see the Pacific Ocean!!!! I so wish my camera wasn't an additional 3 blocks away.<br /><br />Stacey - I will have to do better next shops I visit. I have my travel purse with me and my camera doesn't fit. I need to put it in a visible place so I don't leave the car without it.<br /><br />That's enough typing for now - I want to CO tonight so I can have some mindless lace knitting at the conference tomorrow!<br /><br />Excuse the spelling and grammar - I'm so tired and lazy right now. I'll have to run a spell-check later on and read it more closely!Janet Richardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404150965859368460noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10291480.post-67994599284542153442008-05-21T08:04:00.002-04:002008-05-21T08:19:13.197-04:00My, how things have changedI'm missing my knitting blogs as I am on a business trip, neck deep into business planning and in training. I got to visit two of my favorite Seattle knit shops: Weaving Works and Acorn Street Shop - and am too busy to even play with the yarn. <br /><br />Whine, whine.<br /><br />But I had to post this comment - as CNN drones on in the background while I'm working on slides this morning - the topic is of course the election. And a conversation with my daugther came back to me out of the blue.<br /><br />Let me start by stating the obvious - my daughter is <em>female</em> and <em>African-American</em>: two traits which has previously ensured that she would never be President of the United States. <br /><br />Her dream is to be President. I think I've blogged on that before. <br /><br />One of her future platforms that she has discussed with me - I don't think she has discussed them all as this is a long standing topic with her. However, she has commented a lot on "bad people". And she wants a portable jail that can drop down on someone right before they do something bad. That way the police can come and stop them before something happens. A bit Sci-Fi - but I like how the girl thinks!<br /><br />She also has strong feelings about the "news". Her presidency would focus on news that was decidedly more positive in nature. <br /><br />She was a little miffed to find out that there may be a woman president before her, she wanted to be the first.<br /><br />This weekend she asked me can someone run for President twice? <br /><br />To my self I think - after watching this race I'm considering telling her I'm questioning why anyone would want to run for President once! But my better self prevails, and I put on my supportive parent hat. I explain the 8 year limitation of anyone to be president and discuss why, this history etc.<br /><br />Janeen thought about it a moment - and I said more to herself than to me - I need to figure out <i>when</i> I want to be president then since I can only be president once!<br /><br />We often discuss if we can get a bit of our children's energy how powerful that would be. <br /><br />I think if we can just capture some of our children's dreams - and see the world through the possibilities of their eyes.<br /><br />Dream on Janeen - plan your Presidency. No matter what the future holds - we will all benefit from you setting your sights so high.Janet Richardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404150965859368460noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10291480.post-8906446315969035342008-05-14T20:25:00.002-04:002008-05-14T20:31:43.008-04:00Mother's Day SurpriseLookee what my dear hubby bought me for Mother's day. All thanks to a little <a href="http://mom2rays.blogspot.com">birdie</a> who told him this is what I wanted and hadn't got a chance to order yet!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2493724376/" title="DSC00505 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3266/2493724376_ff4a22e2c6.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC00505" /></a><br /><br />I had been looking for the perfect blocking kit. And I almost ordered the Lace blocking kit from KnitPicks, but it seemed like it wasn't exactly what I was looking for. When I saw <a href="http://www.cocoknits.com">CoCoKnits</a> kit - I knew it was the one.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2493724424/" title="DSC00506 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3161/2493724424_bb24a304dc.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC00506" /></a><br /><br />You get 9 lovely blocks you can <strong>customize</strong> the blocking shape and <em>steam block!</em> with, a cotton cloth for steam blocking, T pins. Wow - I LOVE it.<br /><br />OK Doreen, you will only see this on my blog once.<br /><br />Sqweeee! I 'm not even sure I spelled it right.<br /><br />My man is so sweet.Janet Richardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404150965859368460noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10291480.post-72213080764779857082008-05-13T12:58:00.003-04:002008-05-13T13:41:51.100-04:00What's up?So much to say - so little time. I've been trying to blog more this year - but with work, Jada, family, Ravelry, Knitting, etc - blogging is hard to do!<br /><br />I was supposed to be on a stash Knitdown for 2008. That has gone just a tad bit to the wayside. It's so hard to resist the new yarns out there. And as I learn more about what I do and don't like - I find new yarns and sigh. I have found out how to destash on Ravelry, that allows me to at least get rid of some of the yarns I've fallen out of love with or no longer need.<br /><br />Knitting! At Peace of Yarn, Cindy showed me an Evelyn Clark shawl in Noro Kureyon Sock. That was it - I had been waiting for a yarn to make a replacement Flower Basket Shawl. I didn't want to use Cascade 220 again. It made a lovely first shawl, just didn't want to cover the same ground again. I wanted something light but practical. Noro fit perfectly - and the colors were better than the first version. It knit up very quickly and I love how it turned out.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2476739910/" title="DSC00342 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2147/2476739910_2d2bab14a1.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC00342" /></a><br /><br />I will have to do a few more as gift scarves - quick and pretty.<br /><br />I wanted to do another Evelyn Clark pattern after this one, and started her Angel Lace Shawl with JaggerSpun Zephyr. But wasn't feeling the lace-weight love. I have several L on the needles, and they can get tiring for me after a while with the slipperness and small needles. So I frogged it and started it again on Kauni. Ah yes - it's scratch but soft. I can feel the lanolin in the wool. I think a good Soak will soften it up. I'm excited to see how the slower color progression of Kauni works out. I've been dying to use my Kauni but didn't want to launch into Fair Isle right now. I'm saving that for later on during summer vacation and longer knitting times.<br /><br />Speaking of vacation and knitting - we took a quick trip to Myrtle Beach. Colin had a conference to attend, and I didn't want to have the kids at home so we went down with him. My sister and her husband tagged along to. We stayed with my friend Rita - AKA Trouble - over Mother's Day weekend. Everyone who knows me knows of my knitting obsession, and Rita found a new knit shop for me in Myrtle Beach!!!! Every time I'm at the beach - I'm disappointed because the two that are there were not close to where I have stayed. This new one is in a perfect location and very cute. I love some of the yarns she had too!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2486628061/" title="DSC00343 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2137/2486628061_23afd3a979.jpg" width="375" height="500" alt="DSC00343" /></a><br /><br />And the owner - Phyllis - is really nice. Willing to help with anything. I will definitely make a return trip!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2486628909/" title="DSC00344 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3046/2486628909_721d07a89e.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC00344" /></a><br /><br />I picked up Lyndon Hill - a lovely Cotton/Silk fingering weight yarn. I also picked up some Cotton Bamboo she had on clearance. But she had so many other new yarns I hadn't seen - a lovely Linen/Silk Blend. Yummmm! And the Cotton you see in the photo that the owner is in is a lovely - kettle dyed, thick/thin cotton. So soft. If I knew of a project for either of these yarns, I would have picked them up. But I didn't have any projects for them in mind at the time. Oh - I also saw Cascade's new sock yarn. It was also nice - good solid sock yarn (tight twist it seemed to me) in a variety of colors. I can made 100 pairs of socks with the sock yarn I already have - so I passed it buy - but it's in the back of my mind if I need a good solid color sock yarn that is not already in my stash.<br /><br /><br />Rita also introduced me to my new favorite Summer Sweet spot. Rita's! Not my friend Rita's - but they share a name. They have Italian ice and Custard. And they create this drink that blends the two.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2486629659/" title="DSC00345 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2176/2486629659_1c890c635a.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC00345" /></a><br /><br />With the creamy custard, and the flavor filled Italian ice. Yummmmm! I do not want to know how many calories are in this. Igorance is bliss.<br /><br />On the way back I swatched a bit of the Lyndon Hill - I had one ball of the Watermelon color that was on clearance.<br /><br />I love the lace it produces! It has the structure of cotton - but the silk gives it a softness and steps up the luxury of the finished fabric.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2487447814/" title="DSC00491 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2047/2487447814_7ace5e7745.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC00491" /></a><br /><br />I got back to several online yarn purchases. A nice treat! One I have to talk a bit about is the new Knit Picks Lace packs. I picked up two - the blue/green and rose/pink. I think Knit Picks lace is one of the best buys on yarn around. Generous yardage @ 440 a hank. For prices ranging from $1.99 to $4.99. And lovely colors - much better than their other yarn lines in my humble opinion. There are some creative ideas out there to use the various yarns together in the packs. I'd like to think of something like that to do. But even if I just get 5 gift scarves out of each lot - I think it's still a great buy and a lot of knitting fun.<br /><br />Well - that's all for now. I'm heading to Seattle next week. It's been great to have a traveling break - but I'm looking forward to seeing the Eastside Knitters again and having my required trip to Weaving Works. With the frequent shopper cards Shiori gifted me - this trip promises to be more fun than usual! I'll have to snap a couple of pictures of the shop - so all the non-Seattle readers will know what to look for when you are in Seattle. :)Janet Richardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404150965859368460noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10291480.post-24554258500282861162008-05-04T17:01:00.004-04:002008-05-04T17:49:44.036-04:00Photo dayToday was just a pretty day for photos - I wanted to capture a few of my caplet - but we got a few more. So - this blog is just an update of photos we took after church.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2465711404/" title="Noro caplet 2 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3244/2465711404_62e78fbc8c.jpg" width="500" height="351" alt="Noro caplet 2" /></a><br /><br />Oh - I had to come back and edit this blog entry to draw attention to my Romi shawl pin. The perfect fit for this caplet. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2464906121/" title="IMG_3280 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2029/2464906121_566324653d.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="IMG_3280" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2464904539/" title="IMG_3286 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3186/2464904539_0911697d52.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="IMG_3286" /></a><br /><br />Spring is finally here. For good.Janet Richardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404150965859368460noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10291480.post-21131696631312997922008-05-01T23:08:00.004-04:002008-05-01T23:20:00.147-04:00Teacher's petI voted this week - have you?<br /><br />Why not? Do you want to wait to stand in long lines next week?<br /><br />Of course not - vote now!<br /><br />You may never have another chance to influence a primary again as a NC voter!<br /><br />WIP update - I seem to be determined to distract myself each week from my existing WIPs with a all consumming project.<br /><br />This week's purchase of Noro Kureyon sock & a little inspiration from The Peace of Yarn has sparked me to replace my lost Flower Basket scarf that I <span style="font-style:italic;">loved</span>. But I think I will love this one even more.<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2457086113/" title="DSC00275 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2047/2457086113_caa747a80a.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC00275" /></a><br /><br />I'm now convinced that Kureyon sock is much better as a lace yarn than a sock yarn. I have visions for my other sock balls!<br /><br />And lastly - men!!!!<br /><br />Guess what my husband did to make me take this picture:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/janetri/2457914010/" title="DSC00272 by janet.richards18, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3035/2457914010_9490987dc1.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSC00272" /></a><br /><br />After 14 years, I have not grown used to his tooting. It will still get on my nerves when we are in wheelchairs next to each other. <br /><br /><br />He will kill me if he ever checks out my blog. But I told him I was going to get him back for letting it loose in my office.Janet Richardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404150965859368460noreply@blogger.com2