Sheepish Pleasures

Pink-a-Boo

2008-10-06T14:20:00.012-05:00

This was a really fun knit & yes, it's pink!!! It's a Halcyon Yarn pattern knit with Cotton Fleece & the color is called Pink-a-Boo!

I'm especially pleased with the way the shoulder seams turned out. I used the kitchener stitch & you can't see the seams at all on the outside. The best part of all is that it actually fits!!!

This very sweet rocker is my next chair challenge &

I have until Christmas to get it finished.

Paul & I have been looking for a kitchen island since we moved into our house in 2004. We haven't been able to find anything that we both agreed on up until now.

It arrived as naked Alder & I've added a butcher block finish to it. It was either the butcher block finish or stain it Walnut to match the kitchen cabinets.

My kitchen won't be all matchy matchy, but the island will be functional able.

The "Outlaw" & Baby!

Baby is one of those stretchy head bands & it's her most favorite thing in this world.

If you hear Josie cry it means she has Baby with her, it's the only time she ever MEOWS.

"Froggy Went a Courting" & the Dough's Risin'

2008-10-01T19:05:00.007-05:00

At Last..........

2008-09-30T07:59:00.018-05:00

The friendly skies from the only airline left that doesn't charge you for extra baggage, juice or pretzels, Southwest.

Paul & I got off the plane & we're waiting on the curb for Daniel to pick us up & one of the first cars we see has an Alabama football flag hanging out the window. Paul felt like he had gone home!!!

Me & Daniel

After a year & a half, Paul & I finally were able to make it to Baltimore to see Daniel & Leah.

After graduating from Alabama (Tuscaloosa), Dan & Leah moved to the DC area where Dan took a job with ATA. We were suppose to go see them last year, but had to postpone our trip when Paul's father fell & broke his hip.

The weather couldn't have been any better in D.C.

We rode the Metro (which is a whole experience in itself) into D.C. & when you walk out of the station, this is what you see to your left.

This is the view to the right!

My favorite, the Washington National Cathedral.

There was a service in progress while we toured the Cathedral & they ask you not to take pictures while the service is being conducted...........

I couldn't help myself...........all this different colored light was being reflected onto the floor through the stained glass windows.

I think Paul thought the church police were gonna come arrest me & throw me in the gallows. This isn't actually in the sactuary either.

View from my prison cell! LOL

The "Grillmaster" on gameday!!!

Alabama Arkansas game

The "man socks" went along & are finally finished!!!

Saturday morning Leah took me into downtown Baltimore to see her office. She works for a large bank & we were able to go up on the 12th floor where we had a great view of the city.

She then took me to her favorite farmer's market, which is in walking distance from her office. Leah pointed to a yarn store that was kitty corner to the farmer's market. My heart started beating extremely fast & my palms got sweaty, but I restrained myself & didn't look back. We were on a time frame & had to get back for kickoff!!!

This is the backside of the market, which is nothing but the most beautiful flowers.

On the front side of the market, vendors are selling their wares. I LOVED this place!!!

On Sunday, we rode the Metro again into D.C. to see the National's last home game of the season.

We met "Mrs. Hoots" with the Earth Conservation Corps. She was there to help get baseball fans interested in environmental awareness.

Are her eyes not stunning!!!

Inside Nationals Park............just a wee tad bigger than Region's Park in Hoover!

During the game, they had the President's Race on Segways.
Too funny..................

Thanks Daniel & Leah for a wonderful time!!!

No Knitting News

2008-09-06T14:06:00.021-05:00

I never really thought one way or another about mushrooms, except that I don't like to eat them raw. They smell like dirt & the texture is funky. I tolerate cooked ones....

I read that mushrooms are the "fruit of fungus". Now, that's something to ponder........."the fruit of fungus". Does that mean that mushrooms are fruit? Who knew that fungus had fruit???

There are hundreds of different species of mushrooms & I think we have 1/2 of them in our yard.

I guess we can attribute the abundance of them to the wetter than usual summer we've had.

Now, I will take you on a study of mushrooms, they are really pretty interesting.

Actually, I'm finally learning how to take pictures with my camera.

2008-09-04T07:42:00.008-05:00

The "Outlaw," Sally Josey Wales.....................

With claws extended, she wants me to know that she is strong & regal like the mighty oak table she lay upon ....... Yeah right!

God, I LOVE this cat. She has a wonderful disposition & grand outlook on life.

If my pictures are blurred it's because I'm not wearing my glasses when I take the picture.

I wear my glasses on my head more than on my nose. They are almost like an accessory or jewelry, a tiara even.............anyway, they are a fixture.

Losing my eye sight is a for sure sign that time is catching up with me & I must hurry & knit knit knit.

I resent losing my eye sight more than anything (so far, knock wood) about this "aging gracefully" process. Waaa waaa waaa....................poor me.

There are folks that can't see & I'm complaining about a problem I can easily remedy.

Enough.....

I'm a test knitter for one of the versions of Grace's sock pattern. I'm knitting it with Cherry Tree Hill Loden Merino, Size 2 needles.

I'm loving the pattern & learning lots. This is my first toe up sock & my first lace sock. Great job on the pattern Grace.

I'd like to say that I very much LOVE the new Desperate Houswives commercial where they're all dressed in red, dancing to "Fever", & the apples. I don't know how to add this to my blog. If you haven't seen it, go to youtube & look-up the Desperate Housewives Season 5 promo.

My first "man sock" knit with Smooshy superwash merino yarn by Dream in Color Yarn. Love this yarn cause you get 450 yards!

Color: Midnight Derby

Size knit for: 10 1/2D man foot

Needles: #2 circulars

Pattern: 2x2 rib

Forever Fall

2008-09-03T06:55:00.005-05:00

Fall is my favorite time of year. I get so homesick this time of year that I just want to pack up & head north.

This reminds me of a bumper sticker on a redneck truck I saw many years back..............HELP CLEAN UP THE SOUTH & BUY A YANKEE A PLANE TICKET HOME! I wanted to run the guy off the road & was offended at the time, but now would gladly welcome a free ticket home any day!

Don't get me wrong, the south is very nice, but very hot.

The roving that this yarn was before it got twisted just SCREAMED fall to me.

It started out as 4oz of superwash Merino. It's now 3oz of the best DK weight yarn I've ever spun.

You ask, what happened to the other ounce of fiber? It lays accidentally unwelcome in my vacuum cleaner bag along with cat & dog hair, human hair, sucked up bug parts, cat liter kicked from the box, kitchen tidbits, etc. You get the gist.....

No, there couldn't have been a new bag just placed in the vacuum, so I didn't have to think very long about retrieving it.

Tools of the Trade

2008-08-18T07:01:00.009-05:00

Rowan summer tweed

Knitch pattern

70% silk 30%cotton

wooden buttons

"Coming Back to Life"

2008-08-16T08:23:00.005-05:00

A Few More Miles to Go

2008-05-13T13:52:00.013-05:00

It's all Paula's fault.........

Well, she had posted these cute little sock bags on her blog. Little sock bags that you can't have enough of, little sock bags she had made herself, little sock bags she provided the pattern for, little sock bags I thought maybe I could make & little sock bags I made. I'm tickled with the way they turned out. I'm going to try a larger size next!!!

Well, in a few months anyway...........

Who turned the lights out???

Madison, after seeing her Mom's tam also requested one. I had just order this fabulous roving by Gale's Art that I couldn't wait to spin up. The colors are to dye for........really!!!

The "moments from being finished" tam ...........I dropped a stitch because I was hurrying trying to get this baby finished up so I could post it. It will be finished tonight!

for Mom..........

I miss you & think of you often.

Jessi dyed this roving & I named it "Yellow Chamo".

After spinning I call it "Sunflower & Seeds".........

Isn't it just the most beautifully dyed yarn? I could eat it, but then I'd be sprouting sunflowers.

P.S. I just went to Paula's blog & I'll be darned if she hasn't posted another style of sock bag that she made. Check it out!!!

Last Post for A While

2008-05-06T07:00:00.010-05:00

Did anyone happen to read the article by Amy R. Singer in the latest edition (Summer 2008) of Interweave Knits titled Last year, I Hurt Myself Knitting?

If case you didn't see it or read it, it's about carpal tunnel syndrome & how you need to take frequent breaks from repetitive tasks & hobbies like spinning & knitting, just to name a couple.

I found this article very coincidental in that I'm having CPS surgery next week. I've done & do the exercises. I use to go to a Chiropractor that would adjust my hands & tape them in a way to open up the tunnel. It gave me some relief, but not for very long.

Had I known then what I know now, I probably would have done things exactly the same way. I don't learn the first time, or the second time........

I have roughly 14 cane bottom chairs in my house, not including the ones out back in the shed (I think there may be 8 more out there). It was getting so that you couldn't sit down in a chair without part of your bottom poking through the other side. What was I going to do? I didn't want to replace the chairs, they've been in the family forever & I love them, they're part of me.

I called Cliff Pair, the only caner I'd ever heard of, and I think at the time he quoted me $1.00/hole. Some of the chairs have 76 holes to them. Seventy-six times $1 = $76/chair times how many chairs? It was obvious I couldn't afford to have them re caned. What to do????

My only option was to learn how to re cane them myself. My father had re caned a couple of them many many years ago & I really wanted to kick my own butt for not learning how to do this from him while he was alive. My mother was able to find daddy's chair caning instructions for me, but they weren't complete. What now.................

Several months later I was looking over a Samford After Sundown paper and lo & behold a Chair Caning class was being offered. Naturally, I signed up immediately & couldn't wait for the class to get under way.

I came away from the class feeling like I could finish up my chair & get started on another. I proceeded to cane 3 more chairs. Yes indeedy, I was an expert!!!

To date, I only knew how to weave the 7-Step Caning method & wanted to learn how to weave rush, sea grass, & flat reed, etc. I made a call to the man, Cliff Pair, who had quoted me the $1.00/hole price & begged this man to teach me the other styles of caning. Of course I was willing to pay him. Mr. Pair ended up coming to my house & looking at the chair I wanted to redo. He tore out the old seat cause he was going to show me another method & the whole chair fell apart. Over the years, the glue had dried up & the woven seat was the only thing holding it together. Mr. Pair was going to take my chair to his house to re glue it & get it ready for the new cane job.

Mr. Pair looked around & was checking out my dining room chairs. He asked me who caned them & I proudly told him that I had done them & all about the class I had taken at Samford. You could tell Mr. Pair didn't want to burst my bubble, but he informed me that the chairs weren't done "exactly" right. I was bummed in a big way & cursed the woman who taught me the WRONG way to cane a chair(s). You mean to tell me that I have spent all this money & time doing something wrong!!! Not to mention being totally humiliated in front of the "expert". I wanted to sit down & cry & scream & beat my fists into someones face in a BIG way. I kept my composure until after Mr. Pair left.

Mr. Pair told me I should attend his class that he taught at the Folk School. What Folk School, I said? He proceeded to tell me that there was this folk school in NC where he taught chair caning classes several times a year & that there was one coming up in a couple of weeks. The more Mr. Pair told me about the school & the classes, the more worked up I became. I called Paul at work & told him about it. Paul told me that if I wanted to go, we would find a way!!! Paul is sooooo good in this regard & I love him for it.

In March 2002, determined to learn the art of chair caning, the RIGHT way, I drove myself to Brasstown, NC with a carpal tunnel brace on my right hand. The few chairs I had re caned had done a number on my hand. But, I was on top of the world, I was going to attend a five day class on chair caning at the John C. Campbell Folk School taught by one of my favorite people in the whole world, Cliff Pair. I believe Cliff was 80 years old at the time he taught this class.

My hands hurt so bad after a full day of caning that I slept in the hand brace at night so I could make it through the next day's class. This went on for five days, but I was determined to learn this dying art.

To make a long story short, I had CTS surgery on both my hands 3 years ago & it can come back!!! My right hand is having it's 2nd CTS surgery next week. The hand had nerve conduction tests and an MRI 2 weeks ago & it seems that there's also a cyst growing between the ligament & the nerve that needs to be removed. Healing time = 12 weeks. I'm freakin'...........

What, NO knitting, NO spinning for 12 weeks!!!!
This also means that I won't be posting for a while either.

But, I will think, dream & read about knitting.....

Cliff Pair "Happy Pappy"

Nature's Gifts

2008-04-20T07:54:00.015-05:00

Peonies....

Lily of the Valley............May's birth flower

My reward for picking up trash around the lake across the street...............

Hawk or owl?

Five Purple Finch babies in geranium basket

Knit it?

Rip it?

Knit it?

Rip it?

Which is it???

Mama Wren peeking out of her nest while she awaits the birth of her 5 chicks.

She's incorporated a snake's skin into the nest.

She hasn't moved in a day or two so it must be getting close to time. Another Wren is bringing her food.

Singing for their supper!

Only 4 chicks made it though. One of the eggs is sitting on top of the nest.

The other day I saw a Geiko hanging out very close to the nest with a smitten look on it's face...................do you think it could be the robber???

Sexiest foot in town...

Another set "bites the dust".....

This is the 5th set of socks needles the "Outlaw" has destroyed.

I swear this cat goes into my knitting bag at night & hunts down my sock needles.

The Trickle Down Effect

2008-04-16T07:34:00.005-05:00

My oldest granddaughter has caught the creativity "bug" from her mother.

Mermie was passed down her mother's old sewing machine & she's "sewing up a storm"!

This is an eyeglass case made out of felt. A covered fabric button secures your glasses so they won't be lost. Colorful leaves appear as though they fall from the button's branches.

Mermie wants an Etsy shop & I think she's well on her way to reaching her goal......

Can you guess who this awesome foot/paw belongs to???

The "Outlaw" after a hard day's catch of cave crickets & bird watching & wishing.....

P.S. To those of you who inquired about my daughter's bags, she'll be taking orders the first of May!!!

This 'n That

2008-04-11T07:26:00.012-05:00

UFO's no more:

1 - Irish Hiking Scarf knit with Eco Wool from Cascade - 1st cable project

1 - Rustic Kate Tam knit with 4 oz of Superwash Merino roving from Wooly Treasures - 1st project completed with homespun

I know, I've already "shown off" the tam!!!

Do you see what happens to middle age folk when all the kids have flown the coop??? We must entertain ourselves any way we can.

The "Outlaw" turned one on Tuesday & we had a little celebration of sorts with Bert & Ernie party hats.

Josie with her most favoritest birthday toy, la catnippy fishy!

Molly looking very possessed & a lot like "Cujo" in this shot.

A grand time was had by all!

The "shocker" homespun

Mother bird came back & laid 4 more eggs to the existing 1 that was already there!

Now, I think this is a chickadee's nest...

This nest is right next to my back door & is definitely a Wren's nest with 5 eggs occupying it

If I remember correctly, Wendy told me this is a Spirea.

She's Just Like Us

2008-04-08T06:57:00.011-05:00

I tell you, there's not a stand-up comic around that has anything on this lady, our beloved Yarn Harlot!!!
The entire day was wonderful & one I will remember as one of the top 20 special days in my life. Yes, it was that good & as Stephanie would say "a non-knitter just couldn't understand"!

Our day started at 6:30 a.m. with Wendy driving us safely from Birmingham to Atlanta. There were tons of cops out & you had to wonder if they were trying to catch all us knitters. I think they heard what happens to a knitter when they're going to a knit shop they've never been to before & that knit shop is hosting Stephanie Pearl-McPhee.................

Stephanie autographing her new book, "Things I Learned from Knitting whether I wanted to or not".
She's so sweet & took time with each person she signed for. No rush job here!!!

Wendy & I waiting for Knitch to open
Don't you know the anticipation was killing us, but we talked with some fellow knitters from Chattanooga that helped pass the time.

We met Abby & Mr Orange from Chattanooga (if I remember correctly), who I learned through the Harlot's blog designed the Knitters Without Border button.

The shop was really nice & the staff did an excellent job of organizing the entire event. What I found on my person when I got back home was: 8+ ozs of Ashford Corriedale roving in Sky Blue, a short sleeve sweater pattern along with the yarn (8 skeins of Rowan Summer Tweed in an almost navy color) & wooden buttons to complete it.

While waiting in line to get into the theater, a Knitch lady was handing out little packages of S.O.A.K.......yeah!!!

We ran into Grace & her Atlanta friend, Evilsciencechick.

Left to right: Wendy, Grace & Evilsciencechick

I finished my "Rustic Kate" Tam while waiting in line to see The Yarn Harlot.

Grace was gracious eought to model it for me & I'm real pleased with the way it turned out. It is my first real knit with yarn that I spun with my very own hands.

Grace at the Knit-In as if to say in a Bette Davis type voice..... "Yes darling, I'm waiting to hear the Yarn Harlot speak to me & only me".

Raffle ticket win:
The lucky tickets & 3 skeins of Suss Alpaca worsted weight in Pomegranate

Do you envious knitters recognize who has his arm around me?

It's the Warlock, yes the Warlock & he told me had his "Willie Warmer" on. I got all warm & flushed inside & outside it appears too!!! He didn't offer to show it to me. His cute wife, the Knit Witch was there beside him.

It was a perfect day all the way around....................

Thank You Canadian Neighbor

2008-04-07T21:08:00.006-05:00

Manon, my Wee Tiny Sock arrived safely on Saturday & I was so excited to receive it! Who would imagine that something so tiny could bring so much happiness??? I know......... only a knitter could understand!!!

I love the Karma colourway, my 2 favorite colors green & blue.

Can't wait to try a sock in the Fancy Knitted Stripe pattern on the cute note card. What an ingenious idea that is!!!

Thank you...............

Funky Tawoos (Peacock)

2008-04-07T09:02:00.009-05:00

Last Wednesday I picked-up my eldest granddaughter for her monthly orthodontist appointment. Before taking her home, we did a little Hobby Lobby shopping, had a nice lunch & ran a few other errands.

Upon taking "Mermie" home several hours later, I was presented with one of my daughter's homemade bags.

In the time that we were gone my DD made me one of her awesome one-of-a-kind creations & I ABSOLUTELY LOVE IT!!!!!!!!!!!

The bag has sturdy burlap handles. It also has burlap around the edge, which ensures all the weight that it will endure.

I love the fact that she used a piece of batik that I had gotten her when I was in Asheville, NC last October.

Nicely lined, it has 3 interior pockets for cell phone, pen & keys.

Shirley, your creativeness never ceases to amaze me & thank you for taking time out of your busy schedule to think of me!!!

More creations..............

DD has been asked to make 10 bags for a fashion show in Atlanta this May.

The Golden Temple on Southside will be selling her belts.

Nesting Birds

2008-03-28T12:28:00.008-05:00

The color of this Mandevilla is sure to attrack a Hummingbird or two don't you think???

I went to water one of my hanging baskets & look what I discovered in the middle of the Geranium..........the "sweetest" little bird's nest with a single blue egg.

I think the mother of this egg is a little brown Wren.

Well, this made me think of & want to make.......

THIS!!!

Can you see the little felted bird's nest with a single blue egg in it?

Here's a better shot!!!
The eggs aren't felted but rather a purchase from Tuesday Morning back before Easter.

And, of course I couldn't stop there.......

I had to make a bluebird to go with.....

The beak didn't turn out too well though. It looks like it should be on a platypus!!!!

This Bluebird is a free pattern from Berroco.

Happy Spring & Easter!!!

2008-03-20T10:20:00.003-05:00

Amazing "Grace"

2008-03-18T07:38:00.019-05:00

I think Grace is really pissed at me!!! I've been keeping her in suspense as to what I've been knitting with her homespun.

I sold my soul to win this most "wonderful" & I mean WONDERFUL homespun by Grace. This has to be the most fabulous yarn that I have EVER knit with!!! It's so evenly spun & has such a different feel to it than that of commercial yarn.

This is a diagonally knit scarf with a shifting rib pattern. The pattern calls for Noro Silk Garden & I think Grace's yarn is "equally" suited.

There will be leftover yarn & I'm thinking mittens, which would be a first for me!!!

I got extremely "lucky" & won the pink hat draw in Emily & Michael's baby contest!!!

My prizes arrived yesterday & I'm tickled to death with them. Look at the precious Easter egg sock bag from Tipsy Knitter!!! I love it love it love it!!! Too, there was a "pink" keychain highlighter - a knitter's must. A "pink"mini fan! Anyone who knows me, knows that I'm always hot (yeah baby), so I'll definitely be wearing it out!!! A sock blocker keychain kit - it even has "pink" yarn included. And last, but definitely not least a "pink" package of "Soak" which I've been wanting to try. Thanks bunches

Emily, Michael & Ellie!!!

Rustic - Kate by Wooly Treasures

Superwash Merino

This has been the funnest roving yet to spin with. The color scheme makes me feel good & is so happy!!! There's not a color alive that isn't included.

Bliss

2008-03-12T07:46:00.004-05:00

Sally Jo, the "Outlaw" Josie Whales

Paris Anyone???

2008-03-10T08:22:00.011-05:00

Hedora is feeling very "lavish" modeling my first finished Fair Isle project.

This was also a first time using a "chart", which up until now I've had a mental block about. It wasn't as bad as I'd thought it would be. Now, add several more yarns in there & I'd go ballistic!!! But, just the two strands wasn't bad at all.

I like the way the inside turned out too! It could almost be reversible......

Look what my daughter rewarded me with the other day. It's a rubber stamp with my name that she had made!!!

I'm just so tickled with it that I'm stamping all my knitting/spinning books.

Incredibly thoughtful gift Shirley!!!

Thank you

The Corner of Perkins & Pleasant

2008-03-03T16:48:00.003-06:00

for Shirley, need I say more..........

An Enormous Oversight

2008-03-03T06:32:00.012-06:00

They call her "Mellow Yellow"!!! ♫♪♪♫♪♫♫♫♪♫♪ That's right.........

I'm afraid without meaning to, I may have hurt someone's feelings in a BIG way!!! This someone is my oldest granddaughter, "Mermie". Mermie, very talented much like her mother, spent an entire weekend making this adorable kitty for me. I, in some non-thinking state failed to post it on my blog. I feel terrible & hope that she will see this & that I will be able to redeem myself just a triffle in this precious child's eyes.

A tremendous amount of hand sewing went into Mellow Yellow. She has double button eyes, floss wiskers, a felt nose & felt hair!!!

I love this kitty & of course she makes me smile & feel good every time I see her, much like Mermie. I'm sooooo blessed........................

Fair Isle Tam

I attended a Fair Isle knitting class yesterday instructed by Suzanne B. I just love it when she calls me "Sunshine"!!! LOL Unfortunately, Suzanne calls everyone "Sunshine". Burst my bubble........

The "Sock Wizard"

Darling
Darlene
(after Jessi had fixed her hair for picture taking).

Below, Suzanne & Jessi, the loose knitters!

Margaret from Hoover with a GREAT smile!!!

Margaret jumped right in there once we started talking "Willie Warmers"!!!

Thanks for teaching a great class Suzanne!!!!

Paper Mache Yarn Bowl

2008-02-25T06:59:00.005-06:00

Friday afternoon I went to pick-up one of my granddaughters who was coming to stay with us for the weekend. When I arrived I was presented with this "awesome" paper mache yarn bowl.

It is embossed with paper & fabric cut-outs & the word "Knit" is painted on in yellow!!!

My granddaughter is 7 & I think she did a fabulous job.

I absolutely adore this bowl & will be using it for years to come!!!

Thank you "Bean"!!!

No More Peanuts for me!!!

2008-02-22T07:06:00.005-06:00

Ginger, I'm soooo glad that you guys are okay after your Pyrex explosion!!!

I HATE that I missed Knit Night again, but who knew that eating a handful of Planter's Dry Roasted Peanuts could cause such excruciating pain in one's stomach??? I love peanuts, but after the night I had, I will never eat another one!!! I literally felt like I'd been kicked in the stomach. Doubled over with pain & cramps, the only thing to do was try & go to sleep & hope that the morning would bring better results, which it has, thank GOD!!!

I've started a new sock pattern called the "Classy Slip-Up". To date, I haven't ventured far away from your basic rib or garter rib sock & have decided it's time to step out of the sock box!!! I haven't knit any solid colored socks either, another first!!!

The pattern calls for alternating rows of stockinette & reverse stockinette rib between slipped stitches, 4 row repeat. It's pretty easy to remember.

Cascade 220 was the very first "good" yarn that I used when I first started knitting. It's such a versatile yarn & felts so wonderfully too!

PNL has been after me to knit him a sweater. I chose this basic Neckdown Pullover from Knitting Pure & Simple.
The yarn IS Cascade 220 #9403.

I'm knitting this in vain cause I know he will never wear it..........

Favorite Things

2008-02-20T19:50:00.007-06:00

Well, the new ceiling is finally up & freshly painted & looks 100% better!!! Although we're still trying to dig our way out from under all the shit rock dust..............oops!!! But, that is what it is!!! It doesn't go away........

Prior to construction, I spun the rest of the Fiber Artist Merino PNL got me for Christmas.

I finished my "Knitting Pure & Simple" sweater in January. I've worn it once & it is extremely warm!!! I'm hoping it will get "really" cold once more so I can wear it again.

I got the idea for the blanket stitch detail on the collar from a Mission Falls advertisement in Vogue Knitting magazine.

Jitterbug "Toscana" yarn in garter rib pattern.

I had to buy an extra skein of yarn to finish this pair. Sometimes, I like to knit socks a little longer than the pattern calls for. Usually, I have enough yarn, but not this time. They turned out very stretchy & I could have gotten by using a smaller needle.

When my mother passed & my sister & I were dividing thing up, I chose this miniature spinning wheel. At the time, I had no interest in knitting or spinning.

Last night I added a drive band using heavy thread & it actually works!!! There's no way to remove the bobbin from the "mother" though.....

Austrian Fortune Telling Cup

This is one of the those things from my childhood that I wasn't allowed to touch, only covet.

I adore this teacup & saucer & love that it has a witch on the bottom of the cup.

I Promise, I Do Knit

2008-02-11T17:10:00.000-06:00

I've been in a spinning frenzy lately trying to get this wheel thing down & really haven't been doing much knitting. I do have several projects in the works like a sweater for DH, two pair of socks, cable scarf & then a couple in my head that haven't hit the needles yet.

Don't they call this a Christmas cactus??? How come it never blooms at Christmas (Wendy)? I think it bloomed at Easter last year. I guess this year it's a Valentine's cactus......

Grace was gracious (LOL) enough to open up her house for the 2nd spinner's get together. It was a fun time & I enjoyed meeting Tonni's friend, Stacy & Grace's funny friend, Keri.

From left to right: Carrie, Jessi, Grace & Keri.

Tonni & her newfound spinner friend, Stacy.

Stacy fits right in!!! See how she's holding that mouth just right.............maybe, she's already met Cindy. LOL!!!

Sorry the pictures are so dark, but check out the orb over Tonni's right shoulder!!! Hmmmmmmm........

Wendy

The Birds

2008-02-04T15:19:00.000-06:00

Alfred Hitchcock ain't got nothing on us!!!! Double negative, I know but you get the picture.

Can you see all the starlings???

DH & I spent Saturday emptying out our living room, dining room, foyer & hallway so that we can have some work done on our ceiling.

We rented a POD & when we would move a piece of furniture outside the starlings would fly from one side of the yard to the other. There were hundreds of them & when one would fly, they all would fly. When one landed, they all landed. Not to mention they were loud too!

Could we get it any emptier??? I really kinda like it like this, except that everything echos & it makes the house colder.

The "Outlaw" really likes it like this......she thinks it's her own hockey rink!

I left a plant just so there would be some semblance of life.........

7 Random Things

2008-01-31T11:55:00.000-06:00

I've been tagged by Cindy to list 7 random things about me.

Here goes:

1. I would literally climb out on a limb to help a friend.
2. I was in attendance for all 6 of my grandchildren's births.
3. Don't mind ironing or washing windows.
4. Changed my name to "Lorenzo" when I was little. He was a TV clown that did a dance called the "Lorenzo Hop"! My kids think this is hilarious!!!
5. Must wash the dishes immediately after a meal.
6. Can't do step aerobics or dance.
7. Love to ice skate & watch it on TV.

Bragging Rights

2008-01-30T16:27:00.000-06:00

I want to show off the fabulous quilt my daughter is making. I think she has quite the eye for color, something I lack.

The peacocks are from a chenille bedspread she found at an antique store.

I'm not a quilter, so I don't know what all goes into it other than a ton of work & a lot of patience.

How does a mother of six find time to make a quilt??? You amaze me my talented daughter!

Skirt & shirt she made for one of the grand girls. I just love the pear!!!

Monday Monday!!!

2008-01-28T20:49:00.000-06:00

This is some Shepherd's Corner Merino Endicott that I purchased at SAFF last fall. It's a beautiful deep

purple with some blue & raspberry hues in it.

I don't know if I'm making sufficient progress or not with the spinning???

I do know that it's great meditation & before you know it an hour has passed & it feels like you just sat down.

I had to make mini skeins. My yarn kept breaking while winding it on the niddy noddy, cause I spun it so thin.

A Tribute to Jenny & the Snow

2008-01-20T07:06:00.000-06:00

Jenny, Christmas 1967 wearing a hat my mother knit for her

Growing up in Pennsylvania there were many occasions to pull out the family 4-seater toboggan & head for the hills at Valley Forge.

My very best friend in the whole world growing up was Jenny Byrnes. We met in grade school at Tarelton & soon became inseparable best friends. After grade school she was sent to an all girls private school & I went to public school. This didn't hamper our friendship at all......it just made the weekends that much more special!!!

Unless, we were in trouble for something we had done the weekend before, we were always at one or the other's house for the weekend. I liked going to Jenny's house cause she had 5 brothers & sisters & one of the brothers just happened to be 2 years older.......Phillip. Ah yes, Phillip..........

Anyway, one particular weekend when we were suppose to get together it snowed & it snowed big.... I remember snow drifts 3-4' deep. Our parents were not going to risk getting their cars stuck just so that Jenny & I could see each other, so we decided to walk. We lived roughly 3.5 miles apart & the plan was for us to leave our houses at the same time & we would meet somewhere in the middle. Once we met up we were going sledding, so I pulled the 4-seater toboggan behind me. We did meet up & we did go sledding.

If you've ever seen pictures of the Pennsylvania countryside, you know that there are beautiful rolling hills just perfect for "best friends" to go sledding on.

We walked on a ways looking for the perfect place to launch our sled.............we found it quickly!!!

It was the most wonderful untouched hill of snow with a perfect slope, not too steep & not too flat and it went on forever. So, we loaded up on the toboggan with me in the front & Jenny behind me. We were having the time of our lives, flying down that slippery slope just laughing & laughing when it abruptly came to a painful end. We had no way of knowing that there was a stone wall underneath all that beautiful snow with a drop off of about 5 feet. When the toboggan went over the wall it flipped nose first. I was burried in the snow with a toboggan on top of me and Jenny on top of the toboggan. I had the air knocked out of me for a few seconds & suffered a couple bruises, but other than that was okay. Jenny too had a few bruises but was otherwise alright.......thank God!

We decided not to do that again & as we were heading back towards the road & noticed a pond across the street that was frozen over. Well, we loved a good frozen pond to skate around on & headed towards it. It never occured to us that we might be on "Private Property" now or when we were sledding!!!

We walked out onto the ice in our boots & were sliding around when a man on a snow mobile came from out of nowhere. Apparently, we were on "Private Property" & it was his property!!! We were both expecting a tongue lashing & for our parents to be called, but quite the opposite happened!!!

This nice man told us we shouldn't be on the ice cause it could crack & we could go under, but that if we wanted, he would give us a ride on his snow mobile. We looked at each other, smiled & jumped on. This was a first for both of us & we were so excited. The man was wearing a very long knit hat that hung half way down his back. The hat came to a point & had a tassle on it. Jenny & I snickered about it & we took off slowly on the snow mobile. As the vehicle went faster, the tassle on the man's long ski cap slapped us in the face. This was sooooooooo hilarious to us, not to mention we were having the time of our lives flying through the snow that we laughed & laughed out loud. This was a perfect ending to our day & we had yet another "story" for our diaries.

Jenny & me, Tarelton School Christmas Program 1965

Bulky V-Neck Pullover

2008-01-14T20:38:00.000-06:00

I guess like most knitters, I have several knitting projects going on at once. But, it makes me feel like I'm a VERY slow knitter!

I think part of the beauty of knitting is that you always know before you finish a project what your next 2 or 3 (or 8) projects will be! I get so excited just thinking about the next piece I'm going to cast on!!!

I've been working on this Knitting Pure & Simple pattern for a couple of months now. My goal is to have it finished by the end of the month so that maybe I'll get to wear it at least once this winter.

The yarn is Mission Falls Merino superwash & it feels so soft & warm. The yarn has suffered "ripping". Yes, ripping!!! It's a "neck down" sweater & I had knit down many inches below the v-neck & noticed a MISTAKE. Damn it all!!! It was one of those times where I had to take it & put it away for a couple weeks before I could look at it again.

Now, the band that goes around the bottom edge, which was knit with smaller needles than the rest of the sweater is curling up. I did bind off with larger needles though!!! Will I be able to get this to lay flat when I block the sweater???

The neck edge is also knit with the smaller needles & right where the arm seams meet the next edge it puckers.............I'm wondering!!! Do I need to do the dreaded dead again???

Shucks, maybe if I hold my mouth just right while I'm blocking it, it will work out......... you know like Cindy does when she's spinning.

Spinner's Bag

2008-01-09T09:31:00.000-06:00

I love to felt to the point that I will go to the thrift store & buy a dozen wool sweaters just so that I can bring them home & felt them to see if something can be made out of them.

Anyway, I've been wondering what to do with the "first" homespun. I knew it had to be felted whatever it was & there wasn't enough yarn to make much of anything. So, I cast on thinking I'll just knit a little square that I'll use as a hot pad once it is felted. Well, I started decreasing at the end when I saw I was getting low on yarn. What to do with this odd shaped piece of "would be" felt???

I sewed up the side & bottom & made an I-cord handle that loops over a vintage button my sister sent me. It's perfect for holding an extra drive band, little bottle of oil, wpi tool, etc.........

WHEN THE TIME COMES...................

2008-01-08T19:15:00.000-06:00

I'm absolutely, positively, without a doubt, 100% certain, downright, indisputably, unmistakeably, cocksure (yes, "cocksure") "IN LOVE" with my Ashford Traveler.

I asked DH last night to bury me with my wheel if I go first. He looked at me funny & said "but you want to be cremated"? DH was "dead" serious (no pun intended). You gotta love the man!!!

My most favorite place in the entire world, the Pine Tree State, Maine.

This is on Ocean Drive in Acadia National Park near Bar Harbor.

Stephen King's House in Bangor, Maine.

Double click to enlarge the picture & check out the cast iron spider web with flying bats on the very top of the gate. The driveway entrance (not pictured) has gargoyles on the gate.

"Ladies in Hats"

This "lovely" shot was taken on Craigmere Pond in Orland, Maine. My great great grandfather built the cabin in the background with his own hands. Unfortunately, it is no longer in the family. The pond is an outlet for a fish hatchery. The water is crystal clear & the cleanest body of water I know of. You can bath in it with your biodegradable shampoo & soap. I swear, your skin has never felt so soft & clean. Unfortunately, it is no longer in the family.

My sister, Midge (standing), my grandmother, Minnie & "guess who" with RG, the penguin.

Happy St. Distaff Day

2008-01-07T19:55:00.000-06:00

In centuries past, January 7th, the day following Epiphany, the twelfth day of Christmas, was known as St. Distaff’s Day. It was not really a holiday, nor is there really a “St. Distaff”. But the marking of this day by common people indicates the importance of spinning in the days before the industrial revolution. The distaff, or “rock”, was the medieval symbol of women’s work. Year round, spinning was a never-ending chore. During the Christmas season, however, both men and women took a break from many chores during the 12 days of the holiday.

But on January 7, the festivities were officially ended, and women would resume their daily round of household tasks. Men, however, did not resume ploughing until Plough Monday, when their ploughs were blessed. That left young men with time to play pranks on the girls, as described by a poem by Robert Herrick. But whereas women would recommence spinning on Distaff Day, the men did not return to the plough until after Plough Monday when their ploughs had been blessed.

“You must on St. Distaffs Day:From the plough soon free your team;Then cane home and fother them:If the maids a-spinning go,Burn the flax and fire the tow.Bring in pails of water then,Let the maids bewash the men.Give St. Distaff’ all the right:Then bid Christmas sport good night,And next morrow every oneTo his own vocation.”

So St Distaff’s Day, or Rock Day, as it was sometimes called, was a final opportunity for some playful high jinks,with the lads setting fire to the flax and in return, the maids soaking the men from the water-pails… Life might have been difficult during the middle ages, but there was still some room for fun.

Elizabeth, a fantastic spinner, dyer, & knitter was kind enough to offer her home for local spinners to gather & celebrate "Rock Day".

Thanks Elizabeth for fine food, drink & the Neil Young "fix".

From left to right - Tonni, Cindy, Darlene & Wendy.

Sorry, I know the picture is blurry......... but it was taken before the glass of wine & I tend to wear my glasses on my head like a hood ornament!!!

Grace, alias "Boobs McGee" in her spectacular Central Park Hoodie minus hood. Fab job on the sweater Grace & the buttons look great on it too!

I know better than to shoot into the sun......must have been blinded by the boobs! LOL

Look, Grace's eyes are smiling too!!!

Our gracious hostess, Elizabeth & Wendy.

Only in Alabama - Forsythia was in bloom across the street...........in January!!! It was warm enough to sit outside & we had the a/c on in the house.

Carrie of the Etsy shop Funky Carolina showing Wendy a few "tricks of the trade".

Cindy with her Christmas "Minstrel" holding that mouth just right!!! It really helps with getting just the right tension.

Jessi giving it a whorl on her Ashford Tradional (it too was a Christmas present).

Grace & Elizabeth in their "element"

I think this picture says it all......

Tonni (right) trying to decide what to spin next on her Kromski.

Jessi in the background.

What a fantastic afternoon we had! It was so easy & I thought the energy was really great among us.

This was my first time to meet several of these ladies & to really talk with others I had met briefly before. Everyone was sooooo nice & so eager to share their assistance & knowledge.

Thanks all for a wonderful day & I'm ready to do it again!!!

Metamorphosis

2008-01-06T10:15:00.000-06:00

Okay!!!! Here it is...................my first homespun.

The fall colored yarn was some Merino roving from Wooly Treasures & the in the front some Wool/Alpaca sliver from Fleece Artists.

It's just like they talk about in the books............."beginner's" thick 'n thin yarn. The twist is way too tight in places & in others, way too loose. There's much room for improvement, but I'm getting more of a feel for it now.

I wish I had taken a picture of the unspun fleece cause that's the part that most fascinates me.......the transformation that it goes through. At each stage the yarn takes on a different look. I really can't judge ahead of time what it will look like in a yarn state. I'm sure some people have an eye for this, but I'm not one of them.

The "Assistant"

2008-01-01T08:19:00.000-06:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR ALL!!!

I think I'm gonna rename my blog "The Dysfunctional Blogger"! What do you think??? I'm so terribly inconsistent with my postings. Not to mention they are far & few between. Hey, I could make that one of many New Year's resolutions.

On with the blog...........

I was asked right before Christmas to cane a chair for a lady who wanted to give it as a Christmas present to her mother. Of course, I said "yes", but after saying so wondered how in the world I would have it finished for her in time. Then I had a "brainstorm" or a storm in my brain is more like it............I can get the "Outlaw" to help me. That is if I can pull her out of the loving arms of her nurturing father.

I did manage to distract her long enough to e-mail HH Perkins & order the right size cane for the job.

The cane arrived within a few days, so I asked her to get off of her "fat duff" & help me out.

This was the "Outlaws" first attempt at caning & she felt compelled to unwind all the cane for me in an attempt to be helpful!!!

Oh so helpful...................

We secured all horitzontals & verticals strands with pegs to hold them in place.

This wore the "Outlaw" out & she had to take a cat's nap.

Horizontal weaving begins. At this point pegs are no longer necessary, the weave keeps the strands in place.

Seventh & final step: applying binder cane around edges to cover up all 70 holes.

The finished chair in Little Professor's parking lot awaiting the drop off. Forgot to take a picture of it completed at home.

The chair's owners were very pleased, and the "Outlaw" is hoping to get an apprenticeship position in the near future.

Holiday Knits

2007-12-17T14:27:00.000-06:00

Well the Feds got it right this year!!! Check out the "Holiday Knits" stamps. Do you think this is a holiday tribute to knitters everywhere???

An Attempt at Intarsia

2007-12-12T17:30:00.000-06:00

This is a stocking I started for PNL in September. Needless to say it won't be ready by Christmas this year!!!

I've always thought that it would be the neatest thing to be able to knit a Christmas stocking like my mother used to do. I've cherished the one my mother made me (nearly 50 years ago). I can remember when my stocking (2nd from left) would be unpacked & how excited I would get because I knew in the very near future it would be filled with wonderful goodies from Santa. I loved running my hand across santa's soft n' fuzzy angora beard. From left to right are my son Daniel's "big foot" stocking (we've had many a laugh over this one); mine; my daughter Blake's; and my oldest grandson's.

More Firewood Than Usual

2007-12-11T06:59:00.000-06:00

I was setting a fire in the fireplace yesterday in the chance that it may get cold enough that we can actually light it, when this overwhelming feeling of missing my boy hit me.

My son is a pyromaniac!!! I knew this from the day he can home with singed eyelashes & eyebrows at the mere age of 6. The older next door neighbor boy talked him into stealing cigarettes & matches from our house to smoke.

You oughta hear a 6 year old lie when the evidence is clearly written all over his face..............LOL

Anyway, the non-shrinking log pile made me chuckle to myself cause this time last year he was still living here in Birmingham & every time he would come over he would load his trunk up with firewood to take to his place.

When we moved into this house 3 years ago October, the weather was much like it is today! The a/c was turned way down & he built a "bonfire" in the fireplace, which he continued to stoke all day long.

As much as I complained, I miss the bonfires!!!

Only 5 More To Go

2007-12-03T15:05:00.000-06:00

We had the pleasure of having my oldest grandson spend the weekend with us. DG turned 14 in November & his Papa thought it was high time he had a driving lesson. Papa loaded DG up in his truck & off they went to the local high school parking lot. This same high school parking lot is where he taught our son to drive 10 years ago. How old does this make us feel???

On his 3rd try, DG was able to engage the clutch & take off in 1st gear with minimal bucking & jerking.

DG was so proud of himself (I think it shows on his face) & so were his Papa & I.

Dog Park Art

2007-11-26T19:29:00.000-06:00

Pathos, Sweet, Lost and Found

Artist: J Aaron Alderman

Medium: Steel, copper

It's incredible how this artist is able to show emotion with absolutely no facial features at all.

"Found"

While in Asheville, Susan & I took the dogs to the dog park, which runs along the French Broad River (pictured below). There was an art show going on in the park with work by various local artists.

This one was my favorite.........

The artist took a very cold medium & made it into something warm.

"Sweet"

"Lost"

"Mandala"

I don't recall the name of this piece, but I love the smooth lines. For some reason it reminds me of an Armadillo............

Jimmy Dean (after the sausage) in foreground.

and Yuengling (yes, after the beer)!

French Broad River

Asheville skyline at sunset

I know it's been a while since I posted, but my father-in-law suffered a fall last July while visiting Paul's sister in Washington, DC, which resulted in a broken hip.

He returned to Birmingham at the end of October (two days after I returned from SAFF).

I didn't have much time to prepare & I'm afraid I wasn't as perky as I should have been, as I was still in a daze from the long week & ride home.

SAFF was wonderful!!!! More on that later...............

Dad stayed with us for 3 days before he was hospitalized due to a low sodium problem. Low sodium made him lethargic & very weak & he had NO strength whatsoever. He was also found to have a urinary track infection going on at the same time. Poor man..........................what else could possibly happen to him????

Dad was released after several days and went to St. Martin's in the Pines rehab facility, where he was for a day when he started complaining of his back hurting. He was readmitted to the hospital after a MRI detected a broken pelvis!!!!

Apparently, he did this when he fell in July.

Why wasn't it detected???? Good question!!!

Paul's daddy is 84 and has never been in a hospital a day in his entire life until this fall.

Dad is on the rehab floor of the hospital & is suppose to be released at the end of the week. None of us think he is ready for this in that he can't stand up by himself. But, we have to remember that we are at the mercy of our insurance carriers who know what is best for us! Better not to get started................

Anyway, we've had a lot of out-of-town company with Paul's sister & brother and their families visiting.

And, that's what I've been up to lately............

My First Attempt at Spinning

2007-10-23T09:20:00.000-05:00

Here are the results of my first spinning adventure on "my" wheel. I like the way that sounds......"my wheel"!!!

Remember this old Blood, Sweat & Tears song????

Spinning Wheel (David Clayton-Thomas)

♫ ♪ ♫ ♫♪ ♫♪♫ ♪ ♫ ♪ ♫ ♪

Did you find your directing sign on the straight and narrow highway?
Would you mind a reflecting sign? Just let it shine within your mind and show you, the colors that are real.
Someone's waiting just for you spinning wheel, spinning true. Drop all your troubles by the riverside ride a painted pony let the spinning wheel fly.

What goes up must come down spinning wheel got to go around talkin' 'bout your troubles it's a cryin' sin ride a painted pony let the spinning wheel spin.
You got no money you got no home spinning wheel all al lone talkin' 'bout your troubles and you, you never learn Ride a painted pony let the spinning wheel turn.
Did you find your directing sign on the straight and narrow highway?
Would you mind a reflecting sign? Just let it shine within your mind and show you, the colors that are real.
Someone's waiting just for you spinning wheel, spinning true Drop all your troubles by the riverside ride a painted pony let the spinning wheel fly.

HARVEST BOUNTY

2007-10-19T10:44:00.000-05:00

Darlene you never cease to amaze me with your thoughtfulness. The roving was such a nice surprise & the colors are "to dye for"! Sorry, you know I can't help myself.................

Thanks my friend!

"PIECES OF HIS PAST"

2007-10-18T10:47:00.000-05:00

"Pieces of His Past" is a hand stitched memory quilt. It was made in memory of a very dear friend's husband who died at the very early age of 51. David was in excellent health, so his unexpected death was a surprise to all who knew him.

Susan came up with the idea to take David's clothes that she was having a hard time getting rid of & make a quilt for Nathan, their son.

I've been working on it off & on since this past April & it's now finished!

Happy Thought

2007-10-16T09:11:00.000-05:00

"The world is so full of a number of things, I'm sure we should all be as happy as kings".

- Robert Louis Stevenson

Twenty-five pieces & seven bobbins of New Zealand silver beech wood. I feel as though I know each piece intimately! Actually, she wasn't hard to assemble at all. I thought I would have a hard time with all those pictures, but I actually did pretty well. It's so nice to put something together & all the pieces be there!!!

The Gangs Almost All Here!!!

2007-10-15T07:36:00.001-05:00

" Knit Knight" at BAM

Kay casts on black tweed Cascade for a scarf for hubby. Jan, our knitting "Guru" tries to figure out a pattern for Marie. Ginger joins us after a long absence..........she's a brand new Mommy to the most precious little guy!!! Darlene knits a scarf from beautiful greens, blues & purples that she spun herself, yes, spun herself!!! We're so impressed Darlene! Marie finishes up a "sweet" soap bag. Marie showed us a Christmas Tree warshrag that she had made............too cute, but where are those socks girl??? Cindy casts on the most gorgeous "Crimson Tide" colored Blue Moon for yet another pair of socks.

Camille we missed you, but know how excited you are about that new house!

Cindy tries on the sweater that I just finished in time for SAFF. The neck is sooooooooooooo tight no one can get it over their head!!!! Could I have casted off too tightly on needles 2 sizes bigger than required???

All hope is not lost. In the mean time, I have done some ripping & the sweater is now wearable!!!!!!

Columbus Day Surprise

2007-10-08T23:05:00.000-05:00

UPS DID run today afterall!

Can't wait to get her stained, assemble & up 'n running! It will be after SAFF before she's ready to go, or I'm ready for that matter.

I'm still recovering from shoulder surgery & can't yet handle all the sanding that's needed when staining. Frustration is mounting...........

Plus, I will be learning how to use her at SAFF with a spinning class I'm taking.

The "Outlaw" helping with the unwrapping of the wheel!

The "Outlaw" napping on my sweater.

"Hickory Dickory Dock"

2007-10-06T09:54:00.000-05:00

Martha Stewart & her "people" just comes up with the coolest stuff!!!

"Mousy" just might have to be a permanent fixture.

Miscellany

2007-10-03T07:51:00.000-05:00

Thrift store find............ Amish or Pennsylvania Dutch "Hex" Sign. The Amish use this old form of folk art to decorate & protect their homes. These signs are usually hung on their barns.

The star stands for energy & harmony, love, hope, good fortune, fertility, & protects against fires.

Neckdown pullover by Knitting Pure & Simple. Yarn is "Utopia" by Reynolds.
I've been working on this sweater longer than I care to admit. My goal is to have if completed by Saff at the end of the month. I only lack a sleeve and a half.

I will never buy cheap yarn again as long as I live & put this much time into it!!! I'm embarrassed to say it's 100% acrylic & was only $5.49 a skein.

I wouldn't wear an acrylic sweater from a store much less buy one! What was I thinkin?

My daughter made me this awesome zippered bag for my knitting "stuff"! It's a perfect size (7"x10") & the fabrics she chose are so pretty & cheerful. The inside is as great as the outside. I should have taken a better picture of the lining. Blake even went as far as to machine quilt it! You never cease to amaze me sweetie....

Sophie's Toes "Lush" 100% Merino in garter rib pattern.
Just love these hand dyed beauties. Great yarn from a great friend!
Can't wait to wear them (if it ever cools off)!

The Perfect Day

2007-09-29T22:06:00.000-05:00

Today PNL & I took a drive up Hwy 75 to Oneonta to see the covered bridges. Since it was our 1st real fall like day it seemed like a good day for a drive. The ragweed & goldenrod are abundant inspite of the drought.

We ended up going to Inland Lake to see how low the water is. It was extremely sad to see what was once one of the most beautiful lakes all dried-up. Boats that were once moored to docks sitting on dry land. This is one of our main water sources that feeds into Lake Purdy.

On a lighter note, I had the pleasure of meeting a very interesting gentleman by the name of Fred Ingram.

I walked into a store by the name of "Eureka Shop" across from Miller Drug Store in the older section of downtown Oneonta. I didn't notice anyone else in the store & was wondering where the merchant of this establishment was. As I approached the back of the store, I heard a soft voice say "hello". Here sat an older man with the most striking blue eyes I have ever seen crocheting this wonderful shawl that he wanted to model for the camera. Sorry it isn't a clearer picture.

Fred spent his earlier years at the University of Alabama studying art. His specialty is sculpture, but he dabbles in other areas too. For instance, not only does he crochet, he also knits, yes knits. Fred won 1st prize at the county fair many years ago for a shawl that he knitted that had a pocket on it..........he made up the pattern himself.

Fred crocheting his "flashy" shawl.
I wasn't aware of it, but there's a knit shop in Oneonta a few stores down from "Eureka Shop".
It doesn't look like much on the outside, but Fred says she has quite a selection of yarn. May be worth a drive one day when it's open.....

A Work of Art

2007-09-29T21:27:00.000-05:00

Since I average about 1 post per month (if that) I figured I better get on the ball before the month is entirely over!!! My motto........... better late than never!

Well, I've had a few restless nights here lately trying to decide between a Baynes or the Ashford "Traveler". It appears that the later has won out after much ado about spinning. I hope I've selected a "great" one for a beginner to learn on?

Is there a suttle way to say "I'M GETTING A WHEEL"??? I want to yell it from the roof tops, but I'm scared of heights. This interenet cast will just have to do.

You know she'll definitely have to have a name. Any suggestions???

What fine lines she has..........isn't she a beautiful piece of work!

Thanks PNL.

Dish Rag Tag

2007-08-20T09:49:00.001-05:00

DH & I had two of the grandkids over the weekend & took them to see "Stardust" Saturday afternoon. The whole time we were at the movie I was wondering if "the box" had been delivered with today's mail! I also was curious if it would fit in the mailbox, or if the postman would put it by the front door where it COULD possibly get stolen. Panic attack!!!

We pulled into the driveway around 3:30. The box wasn't by the front door. My heart sunk. I pulled up to the mailbox so my granddaughter could get the mail & aha the box HAD fit in the mailbox afterall. I was so excited I could hardly handle it.

Melissa in Michigan came through with the prettiest tangerine lacey dish rag. I think rather than a dish rag though, I will use it for a face cloth..............too pretty to get all greased-up don't ya think?

Also, in the box was "Little Sprouts" grasshead that grows REAL grass. Sally Jo is loving it already and it's not even out of the box yet! My favorite favoritest thing though is the safety pin full of the coolest button stitch markers that I've ever seen!

Melissa, thanks for everything!!!

Go Rockin Rag Taggers.........

Chemo Caps & Past Knits

2007-06-20T07:14:00.000-05:00

The chemo caps were mailed to Sue in Minnesota yesterday. I hope they bring some comfort to Sue's sister, Mary. I decided to make 3 caps, each with a different fiber content. The striped cap is all cotton & feels really nice. The purple one is 100% acrylic, but very soft & probably very warm too! The purplish/blue one is 50 cotton/50 acrylic. They are all machine washable.

I have posted several "past knits" in that it appears I don't knit much. Since I learned how to knit socks, everything else (knitwise) has been put on the back burner.

The socks were my first pair of Cherry Tree Hill. They were a Christmas present to my sister last year.

I finished this Jo Sharp wrap last year. It was a gift to my beautiful daughter. She loves it so much that she keeps it on a dress form so she can always see it.

This ugly bag was one of first felting projects. My daughter fell in love with it & of course I gave it to her.

I call this the "Bean Hat". One of my middle granddaughters is a "hat girl". Her name is Hala, which means ring around the moon, but I started calling her "Bean" several years ago & it stuck.

Hurricane Sock Really Rocks

2007-06-19T19:16:00.000-05:00

Just now getting around to posting pictures of my "Hippy Crunchy" sock from Jenny. The sock is an anklet that fits pefectly & I can't wait to attempt to duplicate it. There is a lot of open work on the top of the sock & I believe Jenny to be a more advanced sock knitter than myself....hope I can do it justice.

Look at all the neat things that Jenny included in the box. My favorite Pepperidge Farm Milano cookies in both chocolate & mint......yum yum. Margarita mix along with hurricane glasses & umbrella straws...............can't wait to get into that!!! Also included was a cute little blue zippered bag perfect for socks, as well as a yarn cutter & Chibi needles.

Jenny was also thoughtful enough to include a remembrance gift for Mabel Ann. The neatest tape measure with a kitty on it. Everytime I see it it will remind me of her.

May I introduce the newest addition to the family, Sally Jo. She was named for a Ricky Skaggs bluegrass song that seemed to fit her purrrrrrfectly. She's extememly laid back & she & the dog get along GREAT!!! I have fallen in love again.....

In Memory of My Precious Angel "Mabel Ann"

2007-06-06T14:01:00.000-05:00

January 21, 2002 - June 4, 2007

Mabel's Whiskers

Mabel Ann was my tortoise shell beauty with a little lightning streak of pink on her nose. She was anti-social with most, but we understood each other. After all, she was a fellow Aquarius. I would tell her she had "rabbit feet" like Thumper's and according to my Grandson, she had "boy ears".

May's nose would drip when she purred & got lovie dovie. Her dry cat food would become soggy after only a few bites. Mabes did this little ChaCha dance while her meals were being prepared, just like in the commercial.

My Ann was a mighty hunter & host of the busiest varmit B&B (Bird & Beast) in the south. Her more interesting guest list included: Peter Rabbit, who was bigger than she was; Slick the Snake (yes, snake, nonpoisonous, but still a snake); Poe the Crow; Chip 'n Dale (they stayed 3-4 days once) & every one of their relatives that live within a 9 acre radius; Woody Woodpeeker who was starring at me one day through the window when I was just getting home (I swear this bird had to be 12" long & I thought he might peck my eyes out while I was rescuing him, like in Hitchcock's "The Birds").

Her dirty little footprints (from drinking out of the potty) are still on the toilet seat in the laundry room. I can't bring myself to clean the seat.......

Molly, Daddy & I miss you sooooooo

She is with the angels.

She will be missed.

Hurricane Swap Party 2007

2007-05-31T22:45:00.000-05:00

Well, Dawn's Hurricane Swap Party 2007 box is packed & it's ready for mailing to the Lone Star state.

Threw in a few goodies.... hope Dawn likes everything. I had a great time doing this & can't wait for Hurrican Swap Party 2008!!!

Everything is wrapped in white tissue paper except for the sock & yarn, which is wrapped in black tissue paper. Each package has a different yarn or ribbon remnant from my "leftovers" stash.

The yarn is Trekking XXL #126, Brach's colorway. The pattern is a garter rib: K2P2 1st round; and knit 2nd round.

Birthday Yarn

2007-05-02T06:14:00.000-05:00

This is some Trekking XXL yarn I received for my birthday in February. It is so eazy on the eyes. To date, I have given every pair of socks that I've made away! This pair WILL BE mine, especially since a DF gave me the yarn. I've had to put the sock on hold for the Hurricane Sock Swap. Can't wait to get back to them...

One of my favorites, peonies. I inherited this bush 3 years ago & this is the first time it has bloomed. I'm so thrilled....

Asheville in April

2007-04-11T13:31:00.000-05:00

Quick Sock Yarn Scarf

Found this free pattern on-line. I didn't use sock yarn like the name says; I used Cascade Eco Wool, which is much heavier. The detail of the scarf is very pretty although you can't tell it from the picture.

I know you shouldn't take pictures while you're driving, but it's been so long since I saw a nice dusting of snow I couldn't resist.

I was on my way home from Asheville, NC last Saturday after having spent a wonderful week visiting a dear friend of mine.

When I arrived last Saturday it was a beautiful spring day, but it gradually got colder & colder as the week went on. There was a blizard (not really) Friday night & we awoke to this nice little amount of snow. Too pretty...

2007 HSP Questionaire

2007-04-10T16:24:00.000-05:00

1. "No hurricanes, no hurricanes, no hurricanes". Please, no hurricanes....

2. If your pet(s) wrote a paragraph about you to describe you to us what would they say?
Mabel Anne & Molly would tell you that since I took up knitting they get little in the way of attention from me. This is sooo not true though! You see, I have supplemented food for quality time. I figure this way they get what they want, I get what I want (a cat that doesn't chase my yarn while I'm knitting) and maybe the chipmunks are a little safer too.

3. What is your favorite hurricane supplies snack?
Milano Double Chocolate cookies by Pepperidge Farm.

4. Do sock patterns normally fit you "as written" or do you usually modify them for size in any way?
They normally fit as written. But, sometimes I make them just a tad longer than called for depending on how much yarn I have.

4a. What are your foot measurements, not just shoe size?
Shoe size = 9; foot length = 10 1/2"; ball of foot = 9"

5. What one city abroad would you visit and why if money was no object?
Rome, for the art.

6. Do you wear socks all year round or just during the winter? Do you prefer them tall or short or regular height?
I wear anklet type socks in the spring/summer & regular length socks the rest of the year.

7. The last time the power was out during hurricane season (or bad weather of any kind) did you knit by lantern or were you lucky enough to knit to the humm of a generator? Or did you knit at all?
Can't remember the last time we lost power!

8. Make a wish for your favorite sock yarn that you've already used once. What would it be? ? Dont be shy about listing an exact colorway or two if you'd like.
I made a pair of socks with Cherry Tree Hill last year & gave them to my sister for Christmas. It was the nicest yarn I've worked with to date.

9. What is it about sock knitting that keeps you wanting to knit more and more socks?
There are endless patterns & yarns to choose from. They are also so portable, not to mention I love socks. They make great gifts too!

10. Make a wish for a sock yarn that you are dying to try but haven't bought for yourself yet.
I don't know...some lovely hand dyed something in beautiful pinks, purples, turqoise, blues or all of the above together.
11. What size needles do you knit socks for YOURSELF with the most? Are they circular or bamboo needles? What brand?
I usually use 2-#2 KnitPicks circular needles. I'm addicted to Addi Turbos too!

12. If you could only take 3 yarn related books and one previously knitted project that you love with you when you evacuated what would they be?
The previously knitted item would be a large felted knitting bag (filled with all my sock yarns, needles & patterns) I made a couple years ago.
The yarn related books would be: Knitting in Plain English, The Knitter's Bible and Favorite Socks.

13. What knitting notion do you wish you had that you just keep putting off getting for yourself?
I want one of those old wooden sock darning thingies.

14. What is your favorite tv show?
This Old House

15. Do you want a lacey sock or a "solid fabric" sock from your hurricane partner?
Surprises me, although I'm not a "frilly" person!

16. It's midnight and the power has been off for two days, its hot, and you have a craving for something sweet! What would it be? (This is a FOOD related question ladies! LOL)
Chocolate Mint Ice Cream

17. Tell us a story about any of your hurricane weather related experiences.
n/a (thank God)!

18. What was the one thing you wish you had remembered to get last year for hurricane supplies that you swore you wouldn't forget this year?
n/a

19. What color sock would you like to recieve from your sock partner?
I want to be surprised.

2007-03-29T13:14:00.000-05:00

I managed to get Kermie away from "The Pig" long enough to let him try on my Wee Tiny Sock from the swap. He said it was cramping his toes up a little but that it definitely would be warm come winter.

Kermie is toadally the slickest frog around. Kermie is the love of my life & I WILL have his tadpoles one day!!! What "The Pig" doesn't know won't hurt her... Besides "The Pig" can take a big ole dive into her own slop. LOL Ms Piggy.

2007-03-28T07:06:00.000-05:00

Spring in Alabama! Smells every bit as wonderful as it looks. Love the way the vine wraps itself around & around...

2007-03-28T06:54:00.000-05:00

Ah, finished at last...........I've only been working on them since November, yes November!!!

Yarn = CRAZY (wouldn't you know!) by idena; 75% wool 25% nylon. Love the German labels: Almedahls Ab, As Knappehuset. Can anyone translate?

Needles = 2-#3 circulars

Wee Tiny Sock from Alpena MI

2007-03-22T12:42:00.000-05:00

Look at the Wee Tiny Sock I received from Meg in Michigan. It's Trekking XXL in Sunny Citrus colors.