I so loved the knitted and beaded bracelet Emma worked up that I had to go on over to Earth Faire and order a kit for myself. Here's mine in the Golden Raspberry colorway. For the most part, I love this bracelet. It is very unique and I love the blending of my two passions of the moment: knitting and beading! And yes, this was knit up on size 00 needles. Who would've thought knitti-me would ever trade in her tree trunk needles for twigs! Well, I can take small needles in little doses.

I was disappointed to find out the beads were mostly plastic. I'll definitely be working up a few more of these beauties from my own bead mixes.

I was pleased to see how well the bracelet matched my new shoes!

Here is a photo taken sometime in 1965 with me and my mom and dad in front of our house in San Francisco. I am now the same age as my mom in this photo (and yes, she had that same hair-do for years!). I love seeing my dad in his work shirt.

In 1965 we still had our milk delivered in glass bottles to our little milk box on the front step.

On trash day (Tuesdays) the garbage trucks would groan up the San Francisco hills to our street with the garbagemen hanging onto the back and sides. The men would swarm all over our neighborhood carrying the trash cans back and forth to the truck as it slowly drove along the street.

Gas stations were closed on Sundays. Dad would always fill up the car with "Ethol" at the Atlantic-Richfield (now known as ARCO) station at the bottom of the hill.

Our classy neighbor, Margaret Blakely, would dress to the "nines" in a hat and gloves with matching shoes and purse just to take public transportation downtown to go shopping at The Emporium on Market Street.

And no, we never recycled.

~~~

Here are some beaded stitch markers I made a few weeks ago for the craft boutique. The Sunflower markers are a for the "big guns" of kntting needles. They can fit onto a needle up to size 17 and perhaps even a size 19.

These Cat stitch markers are for mid-sized needles, up to 10.5.

Here is one of the bracelets I beaded up and that got away before I could get a really good picture of it. This was made from ceramic beads and silver accents. At my brother's New Years party there was a friend of his family (and I guess she's now my friend) and she flipped out (in a good way) over this bracelet. She collects blue/white pottery and she really loved this look. She has commissioned me to make a matching necklace.

~~~

Knitting! While down South I, of course, checked the Yellow Pages for any local yarn stores and found one, Anapalaca Yarns, just a few miles from my Uncle's home in Ventura. I picked up some wonderful hand-dyed yarn from the Schaefer Yarn Company. This is their Elaine Yarn in the Jane Addams colorway from which I knit this quick hat/scarf set.

~~~

From the Ally Archives - Scary Ally in all her stinky, hairy glory! It's off to the Doggy Day Spa for you dear pooch.

20. Bamboo, aluminum, plastic? Bamboo. 21. Do you own a yarn winder and/or swift?

Yes, but my swift is the cheap plastic one; I would like to acquire a wood one eventually. 22. How did you learn to knit?

I can remember working on the incredible increasing/decreasing scarf out of industrial grade acrylic when I was about 8 or 9 (I wonder what ever happened to that scarf...). However, my real first introduction to knitting was on my honeymoon when my mother-in-law taught me to knit (English). Then I put the needles down for about 17 years. 23. How old is your oldest UFO? About 2 years. 24. What is your favorite animated character or a favorite animal/bird?

Love The Brain from Pinky and the Brain. Stewie from Family Guy is pretty funny too. 25. What is your favorite holiday? Christmas. 26. Is there anything that you collect? Yarn, beads, knitting and beading magazines/books. 1930's Metlox pottery (200 series). 27. What knitting magazine subscriptions do you have? Interweave Knits. 28. Any books, yarns, needles or patterns out there you are dying to get your hands on? I really want to get a hold of the Butterfly Sweater pattern knit with Noro yarn and the Must-have cardi pattern. 29. Are there any new techniques you'd like to learn? I had the opportunity to try my hand at cables and reading from cable charts last Fall, but I would like to practice more and give Kepler or the Rogues a try. 30. Are you a sock knitter? No. But I have no problem wearing hand-knit socks. What are your foot measurements? 8.5 inches long by 3 inches wide. 31. When is your birthday? (mm/dd) December 5th.

Me and my Honey smiling for the camera.

I'm really excited about January's assignment - "Personal History: Explore the cross over between self portraiture and family photography. This challenge can be as simple as revisiting old family snap shots - to tell a story."

I have a couple of ideas for some photo essays regarding some of my family history, etc.; hopefully this will light the fire to get me working on those.

~~~

The Holidaze are over and I am so ready to get on with my life!

Yes, I'm back and ready to make 2006 MY year (I had mistakenly thought that 2005 would be MY year - but we all know how that turned out...). Anyway, we have been criss-crossing this great state of California visiting relatives et al, eating our way through numerous holiday feasts and generally making pigs of ourselves.

We treated the kids and ourselves to a day at Six Flags Magic Mountain. Here's a quick scan of our souvenir pic from Scream - ride out loud! That's me in the lower righthand corner (with my mouth open wide enough for a swarm of flies to take up residence) with Graeme beside me (I love how he's gritting his teeth). The kids are behind us. It had been about 18 years since Graeme and I had been to a theme park, other than Disneyland in 1998. The rides have certainly become more extreme, or should I say X-treme, over the years - but I'm so there! Love it!

~~~

[after being in a coal mine for a day] Derek Zoolander: [high-pitched cough] ... I think I'm getting the Black Lung, Pop. It's not very well ventilated down there. Larry Zoolander: For Christ's sake, Derek, you've been down there one day. Talk to me in thirty years.

Snark on... I could tell you about the vendor, new this year, that made a killing last night with lots of Red Heart and Fun Fur hats/scarves that were sold for $10 bucks each - but I won't...Snark off.

Anyway, another crafter told me about Etsy.com. I'm probably going to set up a store and try to off load a lot of my stock.

Will I participate next year? I don't know. If I do, I'm going to have to come up with a more marketable product instead of unique scarves and accessories made from fabulous high end yarns and materials.

There's only five years age difference between Chris and me. We are more like cousins. It's funny when I leave a voice mail for her, I always seem to say, "Hi Chris, it's Marie, (then in an ominous voice) your Aunt Marie..." Christine just released her Christmas Album, "All is Bright." It's a wonderful compilation of Christmas classics in a smooth jazz format. It's a great album, but of course I'm biased.

Here's my brother and sister-in-law (Christine's parents) acting silly with their backstage passes. OK, on with the busy weekend blow by blow. Sunday dawned bright and clear and after church we rushed home for lunch and then Graeme and I went to Mervyn's (where I subsequently had my meltdown) to get him some duds for my company (semi-formal) Christmas party that evening. We finally arrived at the posh Italian restaurant about 40 minutes late where a rousing game of Jeopardy was in full swing. After a couple glasses of wine and some appetizers, I began to settle down and enjoy myself. I tried to get some pictures from coworkers of the evening (we forget our camera), but have been unsuccessful thus far.

Birthday celebrations have been put on hold for a bit; having a birthday in busy, busy December AND on a weeknight AND not coinciding with a paycheck - well, you get the picture...

This weekend will be dedicated to going to The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, Witch & the Wardrobe, decorating the church sanctuary, caroling, getting ready for the holiday boutique on December 14th and perhaps, maybe, getting MY Christmas tree up - another fun-filled weekend (maybe we should hold another contest to predict the time and place knitti-me has her next meltdown - HA!).

As in my last bracelet, I made three passes of fringe in varying lengths and random beadage.

I have gotten so many compliments on these two bracelets and many requests to make one from various aquaintances. However, when I tell them what I'd have to charge (probably around $160 in time and materials), they balk. There is the Tutorial afterall.

We had a wonderful, low key Thanksgiving at my sister's house. Normally we have between 20-25, but this year we were down to 9. Mom roasted the turkey, made the dressing and gravy and sister and I did the rest (with the help of the kiddos and husbands for chopping, pounding and signing off of the various side dishes).

From the Ally Archives~

In lieu of a trip to the groomers, Ally underwent a dump and fluff in our kitchen sink. Oh, piteous Ally. Hopefully, we can get her into the doggie day spa sometime this next weekend.

Vary the fringe lengths with the longest at 1" to 1.25". In the bracelets I make, I do three passes (of fringe) up and down the length of the bracelet. You may do the first past with the longest length, the second pass with medium length fringes and the third with short length fringes; or just randomly adjust the lengths as you go along.

Once the beads are snug up against the base beads, pass the needle back up inside the length of beads (except for the last bead of the fringe; if you thread up through that bead again, you're just unthreading the fringe - the last bead is used as a stopper) and then through the next base bead and out.

3. Attach the other half of the toggle clasp and secure with the other crimp bead. Keep in mind not to jam the E beads too close together, they need a little wiggle room (but don't leave big gaps either) so you can weave the nylon thread between each bead two or three times as you add each layer of beaded fringe. 4. To attach the nylon thread, make a slip knot and slip it between the first and second bead on one end of the bracelet and pull to close the knot around the wire. Leave the tail long enough to thread because once a couple of the beaded fringes have been made, I thread the tail and then weave it through one of the fringes and pull it out and snip it.

5. Now it's time to brew your bead mix. I poured the bead mix in and add a dash of each of the three complimentary seed bead colors and stir.

Note: I utilized my bead spinner so I wouldn't obsess about bead placement or pattern on each of the fringes. Random beadage is really all that is needed.

- A bead "mix" made up of various types of beads in complimentary colorways;

- Two or three additional colors of seed beads to coordinate with the mix;

- 50 or so "E" beads (enough for 7.5" length of the bracelet);

- 8 to 10 metal charms;

- An assortment of additional specialty beads a bit larger than the beads of your "mix";

- 12" medium-weight metal beading wire;

- Nylon beading thread;

- Toggle-style clasp;

- 2 crimp beads;

- Beading needle;

- Scissors;

- Wire Cutter;

- Pliers for Crimping

- Ruler Finished Length 7.5"

Notes: To take the guess work out of choosing beads I start with a bead mix, which is usually available at any bead shop, consist of a variety of shapes and sizes of beads with similar or complimentary colors. I usually supplement the mix by adding two or three other complimentary colors. For example, for this bracelet I started with a green mix and added dark olive, light green and off-white seed beads. Here is a closeup of the green mix. As far as the specialty/accent beads go, I usually get a variety of glass beads in the shape of stars, leaves, bell flowers, crystals, bugles, etc. and of course, the metal charms. These add the extra bling, that makes the bracelet fun. These beads are usually larger than the beads of the mix. The "E" Bead are used as the base, i.e., they are strung on the wire between the toggle clasps and are the beads through which the beaded fringe will dangle. Basically, the "eye" of the bead needs to be large enough for the metal stringing wire and two to three passes of nylon threading as each layer of the beaded fringe is added.

Regarding the nylon thread. I thought I would be fancy and pick up a spool of upholstry thread in olive green, but I found the thread was too thick for the eye of the beading needle and would not work with the seed beads. So I ended up going back to your basic nylon beading thread; thin, but strong.

~~~

Well my Frappr map is filling up slowly but surely. I had to pad it with my husband and his psychotic criminal face (go check it out-creepy). I was pleasantly surprised to see our friend Richard in New Zealand signed on (Hi Richard!). I also want to give a shoutout to Amy in Arkansas and Bron in New Mexico.

On the crafting front I'm making mindless scarves for the boutique in December and have strung together a couple of bracelets and some earrings for friends. Not much time to craft these days unfortunately and no extra energy to take pics of what I do accomplish.

I will, however, be making my way to the Bead Shoppe to buy supplies for my sister's multi-fringed party bracelet. Tutorial to follow - I promise!

Cheers!

It is definitely a very labor-intensive and time consuming piece of jewelry, but well worth the effort. I'm going to be making one for my sister as a Christmas gift, so I'll do a little tutorial. ~~~ I have made mention several times about my "two-car storage unit" or the "landfill known as my garage." This chaos has been hanging over my and my husband's head for years. Well, over a couple of weekends we did a HUGE purge and made great progress in finally organizing the garage.

Here's what we started with. This is just the front; what you saw when the door was up. That mass of junk extended all the way back, with little or no room to walk.

Football Mom

The tail wires were already sculpted and pounded flat by the Bead Shoppe personnel. I just had to add the beads and twist the top onto an earring wire. I must admit, my wire twisting abilities need more practice - I hope my bosses don't look too close. And speaking of kitty cats, here's Oliver.

~~~ From the Ollie Archives~ A rare moment - sleeping kitty.

So now I'm on to the left front.

~~~

I DON'T WANNA GO BACK TO WORK - WAAAAAA! I just got back from the doctor's and she is putting me back into the workforce part time Wednesday, Thursday, Friday then throwing me into the fray full time next Monday. And I was getting so use to being a lady of leisure. As a result, I'm sure the creative endeavors will be tapering off.

~~~

From the Ally Archives~

An earring and bracelet combo for a birthday present for one of Daughter's girlfriends.

A more elaborate earring, bracelet and necklace ensemble - I may have to keep these for myself. And a definite keeper~a multi-stranded necklace (bead spinner used for random beadage) with a wonderful stone disk as the centerpiece. With matching earrings (and bracelet too - not shown). Filed under: And Yes, I Do Knit. A quickie birthday scarf out of Colinette's Salsa cotton yarn in the turquoise colorway for another one of Daughter's friends.

Tifff correctly indentified the buttons as belonging to longjohns!

My Grandmother had several hundred of these buttons rattling around in her button box. She used to do laudry for the Amy Aircorps and probably she and her family wore a pair from time to time back in the day. To say the least, she collected a few over the years. There is quite an interesting history on undergarments and I found a fascinating site here on the history of skivvies. It's a good read with great photos. I also found an interesting and odd vintage photograph online of three men working in their underwear. So there you have it folks!

Tifff will receive this beaded bracelett and matching stitch markers so she'll be knitting in style.

!!!Blog Contest!!!!

Who can tell me what these medium sized white buttons were used for?

And here are matching (fraternal) braceletts in reds and ambers for my sister and me. I even went so far as to try my hand at a pair of earrings for sis. Speaking of which, I'm heading down to my sister's tomorrow to flop at her house for a few days.

...and then nestles with one rod inside the other for smooth spinning. The bowl and pedestal are both hand turned wood on a lathe~very beautiful. You put your selection of beads in the bowl.

And then went on to double stranded, random beadage numbers.

I love the clasp on the larger bracelets.

Sunday, I ventured out of the house to attend church (boy do those pews do a number on the back!). Here is my friend Barb showing off her new bauble.

I've made 12 or 15 of these little beauties, each graced with a vintage or whimsical button. While I was in the hospital, I received many compliments on my cell phone cozie from staff and visitors. Nurse Connie even requested one in Greens, Blues and Yellows, for which I had the perfect yarn in the stash. ~~~

From the Ally Archives ~ here is the lovely Ally lounging on the back deck..

...with her counter-part, Tasha, in the opposite chair.

Pattern: Klaralund from Cornelia Tuttle Hamilton's Hand Knitting (Noro) Collection #2.

Yarn: Noro Silk Garden colorway #232.

~~~

My daughter participated in a Summer in the Arts Program sponsored by my church. Here is Sarah and her cohorts practicing for the Youth Band. Our Praise Team, with whom I sing, will be out of a job pretty soon - those kids ROCK! They did a great job at the end of summer recital, with blaring guitars, pounding drums and even a fog machine. All that was missing were the pyrotechnics.

My son Gabriel ran his first skirmish last week. Because I'm currently house-bound, I was unable to attend this momentous event, but Husband took lots of pics. They work and train these Frosh football players hard. Six weeks before his Jr. High School let out for the summer and then another six weeks during the summer, Gabriel participated in football camp, where he worked with weights, learned plays and did whatever else they do for Frosh football training. It certainly made his transition from Jr. High to Sr. High easier. (I really should have talked to him before choosing that jersey number...)

I'm proud of you kids!

~~~

And from the Ally Archives:

And then we have Jack Malone (affectionately called Lips McGee in our household, for his lack thereof) from CBS's Without a Trace. Here is one of the FBI's finest when it comes to finding missing persons. This is one show we'll watch when the pickings are pretty slim, but not a must see. And how can we forget NBC's Law & Order's Assistant D.A. Jack McCoy. Again, the original Law & Order is not on my "must see" list, but we'll tune in occasionally (at least enough for me to note Assistant D.A. McCoy's first name).

They have a 1960 Winter Olympic museum, but I use the word "museum" in the loosest terms. It really was just a bunch of enlarged newspaper clippings and event results set up - not a lot of memorabilia. This was the first Olympics to be televised and they had a big screen TV showing the 1960 Olympic coverage (with the cheesy announcer and silly background music that was so popular in the 50's and 60's - you remember the science films shown in school? Oh, and we had the "Girls" Downhill and the "men's" Slalom.) At High Camp they have a couple of nice restaurants, a year around pool/hot tub and ice skating rink and of course, in winter there's skiing.

Here we are leaving base camp in the cable car. It is about a 10 minute ride ascending over 2000 feet.

We were crammed into the car with about 70 other passengers - standing room only.

Of course it doesn't look quite as flattering and sophisticated on me as it does on Glam Steph. Would I wear this out in public? I don't think so. It may find itself reincarnated into a Sophie Bag someday. ~~~ We got new cell phones! After reading about Bliss' war with Verizon, I called, with trepidation to order two new phones for husband and me and also to add the kids to the family plan (yes, I finally broke down and got my two teenagers cell phones! Will I live to regret this?). Up to this point husband and I have been lugging around dinosaur cell phones as big as staplers, so you can imagine my glee when I received my new little toy in the mail.

Knowing this little gem would get lost in the dark recesses of my knitting bag, I crocheted up a little cell cozy using the last remnants of the Noro Kureyon from the Two Skein Wonder.

I even found a wonderful vintage button from my grandma's button jar to secure the cozy handle. ~~~ Here's another bandwagon I jumped on too, Klaralund - about 12 months late! Well at least I didn't join the knit-a-long or this thing would never get finished.

I love, Love, LOVE this Noro Silk Garden colorway, #232. I opted to knit the body of the garment in the round. It's going pretty fast, that's about 2 1/2 skeins of Silk Garden so far.

After the felting fiasco with the Peruvian Collection Highland Wool, I'm finding I'm dragging my feet on knitting the next Sophie bag sample for my upcoming felting class. In this sample, I am incorporating random beadage throughout the knitted fabric. I finished knitting the bottom of the bag and have just picked up stitches around. I'm distracted by Klaralund.

We had the opportunity to see a lot of tropical flora and fawna, most of which is not native to Hawaii.

The show as very entertaining. As Bron pointed (no pun intended) out, those coconut bras take perkiness to a whole new level. As there were numerous costume changes and I heard to cries of pain, I can attest they were not stuck on with super glue.

Here we have Tahitian dancers, with the required coconut bra-age. It was good to see they hired "bigger" girls along with the more willowy dancers. And just to make Graeme feel at home, these girls, dressed in traditional Maori costumes, danced the Haka Poi with their twirling poi. Later in the show, they twirled fire-lit poi, for added flare. (An aside ~ when I was a pre-adolesent girl, my next door neighbors took a trip to Hawaii. When they returned, Eugenia and Jocelyn, told tales of the exhotic dancers with their twirling balls. We then got our heads together and began making "poi" out of wads of Kleenex stuffed into a baggie with the tail braided in varigated acrylic yarn.) Graeme was a little disappointed that the men didn't do the Haka (Maori war chant).

One day, towards to end of our stay, we drove up to some of the beautiful waterfalls Kauai has to offer. Here are the Opaeka'a Falls, seen in the movie Blue Hawaii.

All four of us jumped - son numerous times - but were too fast to catch good photos.

Adjacent to the our condo property was the Radisson Resort. As an added perk, we were able to take full advantage of all the resort's ammenities. Their pools were fabulous, with waterfalls and even a sandy bottom pool.

The day after we arrived on Kauai, we met up with some more friends who were staying at the Marriott Resort. We had the opportunity to splash around in this fabulous pool too.

View Contact Details Subject: Hi There! Hey, you really hit the jackpot with your SP. Beautiful, beautiful gifts. I have been faithfully keeping up with your blog, but just haven't had the "umph" to comment. However, your latest projects and beading (especially!) have been fabulous. After my last email to you - I ended up taking another two weeks off work after going to the doctor and sobbing in her office. Her comment was, "I've had several patients with severe anemia like you, but they're not crying - there must be something more going on here..." Ya think?! I have since gone to the shrink and he's put me on a totally new medication and I'm feeling a bit more stable. Anyway, as it turns out, I'll be going under the knife in August for a full hysterectomy. Apparently, my uterus is the size of a 4-month pregnancy (Congratulations Mrs. Edmondson). However, I don't have a precious life, but lots of insidious tumors (boo, hiss). Well, at least I can almost see a light at the end of the tunnel, I just have to recover from major abdominal surgery. In the meantime, Hawaii is just around the corner (jetting out of here next Wednesday morning). Given my health condition, I won't be up for hiking the heights of Kauai, but a hammock on the beach with a Mai Tai sounds just fine. We bought snorkling gear for the whole family and have been practicing in the pool at the gym. That's about the extent of activity I can do these days; slow leisurely laps up and down the pool with only the sound of the "Darth Vader" breathing from the snorkle. I had been working on a pretty feather and fan scarf (from Scarf Style) in some beautiful "Over the Rainbow" Twinkle Toes yarn, but put it down nearly two weeks ago - I've been stagnating since. I'll probably take it as my vacation knitting though. In the meantime, I've beaded some braceletts. Before leaving for Hawaii (i.e. this weekend), I'm going to rip the recycled silk purse and reconfigure to fit all my "necessities." I perfer small pouches that wear over one shoulder and across the chest rather than the ubiquitous fanny pack. So there you have it - I'm back at work (and in a much better frame of mind) and ready to pack my bags this weekend. Take care my friend, -Marie

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: An Email to a Friend DATE: 11:18:00 AM ----- BODY:

Date: Tue, 24 May 2005 11:15:22 -0700 (PDT) From: "Marie Edmondson" View Contact Details Subject: Re: Hi Marie :) Hi there! It's so good to hear from you - thanks for checking in. Today is my first day back to work after taking two week's medical leave. They finally did it - ran me into the ground. So now I'm back - so far so good. Here's a rambling synopsis of my health. I'm still severly anemic and popping iron like nobody'sbusiness. I am so tired all the time, it's frustrating- but I must be patient with myself. Still sufferingfrom god-awful headaches and nausia. Trying to make appointments with doctors to get to the bottom of this, but Kaiser drags their feet...I may need surgeryto stem the flow of blood that is causing the anemia(among other things). On the plus side - A/C's in just in time. We're in the 90's now and should be near 100 in a few weeks. New windows should be installed in the next two weeks! You know you have arrived at total "domesticality" when you get excited about a new vaccum or A/C. My house is actually straight! It took me most of the two weeks I was off - between about five naps a day, but I now have a house that isn't too embarrasing if you choose to drop by. I love Dish Network's DVR. I've been taping all theStar Trek Deep Space Nines. ST-DS9 was always on at awkward times when first aired and I never quite got into the characters - but now it's a different story! It's like watching a Star Trek series for the first time. I'm such a geek that I get excited not only about vaccums, but Star Trek (smile). Both daughter and son are caught up inend-of-school-year activities (son's actually graduating from middle school), so that's keeping usbusy. Daughter won an award and we attended the awards ceremony at the State Capitol last night - didn't see Arnold though. Hawaii is still on (and paid for!). We'll be jettingout of here on June 29th! I haven't read any blogs, so I haven't been keeping up with your life - I'll go get a cup of coffee and havea good read. Take care and thanks again for checking in. Hugs! -Marie

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: When it Rains it Pours DATE: 12:55:00 PM ----- BODY:

In fact, I'm wondering if it's March or May here in Sacramento. Usually by this time it's in the 80's, but it has been cold and raining for several days now. The Good As I already related in a previous post, we re-fi'd our house and not only are we getting new windows and cetral heat/air, we're getting a trip to Hawaii out of it too! Graeme and I were once young and care-free living in the balmy climes of Hawaii. Twenty years ago in July we were married in Honolulu and shortly thereafter, left the islands to begin our new life together. Now, with two kids (teenagers) in tow, we're returning to where it all began. Ten glorious days in paradise - unfortunately I have to wait two months before we embark on the trip. I could really use the vacation now, as you'll read below. For Mother's Day, the husband and kids got me Scarf Style and a fabulous knit bag. I also indulged in a little Mother's Day (justification) yarn buying of some beautiful and unique homespun from TookNap Press. The Bad There's a lot of miscellaneous crap going on here. I've been having some major medical issues going on and of course the choice to discontinue Celexa didn't help matters either. Anyway, I'm now chronically fatigued, severly anemic and ready to pass out at any moment. On Friday my doctor recommended I go on a short medical leave, "you need rest," is what she said. Well, stupidly, I refused, saying I couldn't take time off work because of critical projects I'm working on. After being unable to remember my assistant's name and making some dumb mistakes, I'm reconsidering her recommendation. Knitting and blogging have been a very important part of my life over the last two years. I love the knit-blog world and the relationships and inspiration I have gleaned have been priceless. There are hundreds and talented knit bloggers out there with wonderful writing styles, wit, and fiber talent. I feel privileged to peek into their worlds daily. Looking back in my archives, I saw that this was once a fun and innovative blog. I can almost see my deterioration through the quality of the posts. Lately I've been making half-hearted attempts at blogging, but my heart isn't in it. I NEED A BREAK. I hoped it would never have to come to this, but Knitti-me is going on hiatus. I'lll probably still click around to see what you all are up to, but things will be pretty silent here. I'm looking forward to the day I'll be able to put effort and heart back into my blogging; hopefully, that day will not be in the too distant future. In the meantime, I'll knit on.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: Misc. DATE: 11:09:00 AM ----- BODY:

So, ya wanna see how I'm feeling? Go ahead, click the pig, I'll wait... I'm actually feeling much better. I still have "episodes" but the frequency is becoming less. ~~~ On the knitting front, I finished the Curlicue Ruffle Scarf from Stitch Diva's Decidedly Different Scarves pattern. It's really pretty, but when I put it on, it's a bit like a clown collar! Pics soon. I've been toying around with Tunisian Crochet, waiting for my HUGE Tunisian crochet hooks to arrive. It's quite fun and quick to pick up, but the swatches really curl on the small size hook. I'm also preparing to begin on my first free-form crochet bag. I'm frogging my Scrappy Poncho for the needed yarn scraps. ~~~ How can "Scotty the Body" still be on American Idol? He's so creepy - he has to go! I'm all for average-Joe's being given a chance, but I think Scott has outstayed his welcome. ~~~ Looks like I'll be spending the summer in air-conditioned comfort. Sacramento is located in California's central valley and our summers get quite toasty; high 90's and low 100's. We have not had air conditioning since 1992! Graeme and I just signed refi papers today, so it looks we'll be able to put in central heat/air AND new windows! Woo Hoo! ~~~ I'll be going in for tooth extraction tomorrow. The doc gave me a handful of Valium, so I should be pretty wasted by the time they put that needle in my arm. ~~~ Anything else? I think I better get back to work.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: SF and an FO DATE: 1:45:00 PM ----- BODY:

Saturday the kids and I met up with friends and family in San Francisco to celebrate the life of my sister-in-law's father who passed away in December. After a touching service and lunch we all gathered on top of Twin Peaks to scatter Jim's ashes, which was his last request. Here is a view looking down Market Street into downtown. It was a beautiful day, albeit a bit windy. Here I am with my precious kids. FYI, I'm standing on a short wall; both my kids tower over me. Son just hit 6' and is still going strong. On the way down the hill, much to my kid's dismay, I stopped by ImagiKnit. The shop literally has floor to ceiling shelves full of high-end yarns with lots of comfy couches and chairs to sit and knit. Despite being surrounded by loveliness, I only came away with the "Decidedly Different Scarves" pattern from Stitch Diva Studios after seeing a beautiful store model. ~~~ And here is another Cape Bohemia, my third one, knit from some fabulous La Boheme from Fiesta Yarns, produced from the Embarrassingly Large Yarn Stash, I might add. I think I may knit Ally a matching doggy Cape Bohemia - uh, maybe not. ~~~ On a personal note, thank you for all your kind words of encouragement. It has been a difficult road, but I think I may be on the upward swing.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: "I need a fix, man" or "Lock her up and throw away the key" DATE: 3:31:00 PM ----- BODY:

Nearly two weeks ago I went off a medication that I have been on for seven years. At first I thought I was a bit under the weather, but then I realized, after many irrational rages directed at my unsuspecting family, that I was in full-blown withdrawal. I had to leave work suddenly yesterday when I commenced vomiting and having uncontrollable shakes. My sister finally did some research and sent me links on the side effects of quitting Celexa cold turkey. "Over 50 different symptoms have been reported with antidepressant withdrawal, with dizziness, nausea, fatigue, headache, gait instability and insomnia the most common. The lucky ones will experience only minor Celexa withdrawal symptoms. They might even blame their Celexa withdrawal symptoms on the flu. For others, the Celexa withdrawal symptoms are debilitating. Celexa Withdrawal symptoms: Anxiety Dizziness - Hold on! Fatigue Headache - Pass the Tylenol Extra Strength! Insomnia Tremors - And that ain't no earthquake! Visual hallucinations - Not yet! Diarrhea - yuck! Nausea - Constantly Vomiting - oh yeah. Restlessness Blurred vision Muscle and joint pain - it hurts to breath! Jolting electric "zaps? Tingling sensations - Ants all over me! Fever Abdominal discomfort Flu symptoms and general malaise - I feel horrible. Anorexia Agitation Gait disturbances Sweating - Pass the Arid Extra Dry! Irritability - I am so irritable, Archie Bunker looks like a choir boy next to me. Aggression - much to my dismay. Sleep disturbance and insomnia Nightmares Vivid dreams - as evidenced by yesterday's post. Confusion - where am I? Memory and concentration difficulties - What was your name again? Chills and hot flashes - Constantly. Crying spells - pass the Kleenex. Suicidal thoughts - fortunately no. Lethargy Weakness" As far as my job is concerned, this is probably the worst time to go off meds, but I had no idea I would react this way; especially after my psych doc said it would be "no big deal." (I have a call into her - she's going experience some of this aggression first hand!) I may go into why I choose to get off the meds, but that will be another day. I have been tossing up whether I should go back on them - at least until I get through the current crisis du jour at work, but then on the other hand, I could be so close to kicking this thing. Bear with me my friends and family - knitti-me should be her old self soon (I hope - 'cause this is killing me!). I have FO's and pics to show from the weekend in SF. But I don't have the energy or concentration to pull together a proper post right now.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: Dream DATE: 11:52:00 AM ----- BODY:

I had a funny dream last night. A group of friends and I were held hostage in Communist Russia. In order to escape we were utilizing certain song sequences on the radio. However, one of our number betrayed us by revealing the plan. So we could only choose one song that would be the key to our escape! Of course we were successful, and were soon strutting across the tarmac to the airplane as Ozzie Osborn's remake of "Staying Alive" blared through the loud speakers. The Russian people were standing by clapping and dancing while the Communist officials fumed. "Ah, ah, ah, ah, Staying Alive, Staying Alive..."

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: Happy Birthday Baby Girl! DATE: 9:10:00 AM ----- BODY:

Today is my precious Sarah's 13th birthday! Best wishes on your special day!

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: Delusional DATE: 1:40:00 PM ----- BODY:

What happens when you want something so bad that you begin to create that reality around yourself, deceiving yourself, your family and friends? About 18 months ago K gathered a bunch of friends and family together to make a big announcement. As we raised our glasses of bubbly, she announced that a screen play she had written had been bought by none other than Ford Francis Coppula. In meetings she had with the director, she had been assured that she would be very much involved in the casting and filming of the trilogy. Contracts were generated and we were told big name stars were already signed: Matthew McConaughey, Nicole Kidman, Orlando Bloom. In addition to these well-know actors, K was encouraged to also sign talented friends and family (just to clarify, these friends and family members, of whom I am good friends with, are talented actors in their own right). You can imagine our excitement. The plan was the trilogy would be filmed in New Zealand utilizing Peter Jackson's connections and facilities in Wellington. K and her family would go down about four to six months prior to the commencement of filming then the rest of the cast (i.e. my friends) would follow. The project was expected to take about three years. Having contracts in hand, my friends began to make arrangements for the move (i.e., put in for leave of absences from jobs, etc.). Fast forward 18 months. K and family are still here and telling us that they are waiting for "the call." She explains that the film currently being shot down in NZ is running late and it should be any day now that they will be out of the facilities and K and her crew move in and begin filming prep. One of our friends began to question K and was getting frustrated by her ambiguous answers so he got his lawyer involved. Come to find out the contracts were fraudulent and signatures forged. Mr. Coppula had never heard of K or her screenplay. How could this be? What could cause someone to create such fiction? This woman is a beautiful and talented person and intelligent. She certainly had us all fooled. When I first heard the news, I thought, "Poor K, she need some love and serious help." But then I started thinking of all the ramifications of this charade. M sold his house, R put in for a leave of absence, F quit his job and was working temp until "the call." K's son was applying to NZ universities. NZ housing was being explored - deposits being made. Was K's family involved? Did she pull the wool over their eyes too? What else can I say?

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: Adventures in Dentistry DATE: 10:29:00 AM ----- BODY:

Over the last several weeks I have been undergoing dental treatments that will culminate in wisdom teeth extraction at the end of month. Sitting in the chair yesterday, my mouth propped open with various torturous dental instruments, muzak playing in the background, my mind wandered to movies with dental themes. Hermey the misfit elf from Rudolf the Red Nose Reindeer immediately came to mind. Here was an elf who didn’t like to make toys, but had aspirations to become a dentist. Hermey saves the day by pulling an abscessed tooth from the Abominable Snow Monster, thus taming the savage beast.

Another character that came to mind was the delightfully sadistic biker-dentist, Orin Scrivello, D.D.S, played by Steve Martin, from The Little Shop of Horrors film. This leather-clad dentist thrived on inflicting pain on his helpless patients. Then of course there’s Dudley Moore’s character, George Webber, in the movie “10.” Webber is suffering from a case of mid-life angst and becomes obsessed with his dentist’s daughter who symbolizes the perfect woman, a “10.” At one point in the movie, Webber visits his dentist in order to gather information on his daughter. Once home, Webber thoroughly drugged and numbed, tries to carry on a telephone conversation in a hilariously funny scene. After receiving 8 shots of Novocain yesterday, I could totally relate to Webber’s plight.

In a more sinister dental-related movie, Dustin Hoffman plays a marathon-running university graduate that gets caught up in an espionage plot due to the knifing death of his brother in Marathon Man. Excruciating scenes of dental torture at the hands of former SS dentist and Nazi fugitive, Szell, “the White Angel” of Auschwitz, is definitely not for the faint of heart.

Do you have any favorite dental-related movies to add to my list? ~~~ In knitting news, I am still plodding along on the throw for my bedroom. I've seamed the sides of my Ribby Cardi, but still need to attach the sleeves. Still trying to find the perfect pattern for my new Katsara yarn.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: I'm Back DATE: 12:50:00 PM ----- BODY:

This post has been languishing as a draft for several days now - I suppose I should finish and post... Well, I made it back from the wilds of Wyoming. My mom and sister stayed a few extra days in order to visit the old homestead; I wish I could have taken the time to go with them - but work and family called. As a rule, I don't check my baggage if I don't have to. If it doesn't fit into my little roll away carry-on, it doesn't go with me. Over the years, I have traveled to Europe, the South Pacific, New Zealand, Central America, Canada, Eastern United States...and have never lost luggage, even when I had to check bags due to a longer stay. Well, I had to take a plane from the Denver airport into Riverton, Wyoming. This prop plane was little 19 seater, which didn't have any overhead compartments or storage in the cabin. I was required to leave my roll-away bag at the bottom of the airplane stairs and they would transport the bags in the "trunk" of the plane. After arriving in Riverton, my Uncle (not the dead one) and I were the last de-plane. There was his bag sitting there on the tarmac, but mine was nowhere to be found. How in the world could they loose my bag?! Evidently, the little old lady who had traveled on the same plane mistook my bag for hers, because her bag was still at the terminal! I was able to get her name and address off the suitcase tag and I looked her up in the phone book. After arriving at my Aunt's house, I began to phone her every few minutes (no answering machine). About an hour later, she finally answers. After trying to explain (actually yelling as she was a bit hard of hearing) the situation to her ("who are you?" "how did you get my number?" "what suitcase?") I persuaded her to go look the suitcase she brought home. "Why, I'll be, this isn't my suitcase!" (that's what I've been trying to tell you for the last 10 minutes.) Turns out, she lives about 40 minutes away. My cousin Steve, kindly offered to swing by the "airport," pick up her suitcase and meet halfway to make the switch. Well, I got my suitcase, but when Steve stopped at the "airport" they were closed up until 10:00 pm that evening for the next arriving flight, so she had to make an extra trip back to Riverton the next day. Knitting: I've been working on a throw for the love nest, I mean my bed room. This is knit from stash yarn (Colinette). When I was going through the Embarrassingly Large Yarn Stash trying to find yarns to sell off, I discovered these one-skein wonders would all look good together for a tone-on-tone throw. It has since been ripped out and started again. I realized I had cast on too many stitches (the length of the throw). Stash acquisition: Handpainted DK wool and English Mohair from the fabulous Katsara. I am currently on the prowl for a cardi or pullover pattern. I'm planning on knitting with the two yarns held together. I'm thinking of a V-neck with long or 3/4 sleeves. Swatching to commence soon. Beading: This is a beaded book mark I made for a co-worker's birthday. I love the Spring theme. Also, I don't think I ever showed you the stitch markers I made for the Stitches West Dinner-along. Most of these had mates (2 of each), but each of the ladies at the dinner picked one marker. Ribby Cardi: She's in limbo. Waiting for the right circumstances to commence seaming. Perhaps at the next crafty Sunday at church (first weekend in April-wait that's this weekend!). I just might have an FO for you sometime next week.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: Rest in Peace, Dear Uncle DATE: 4:38:00 PM ----- BODY:

Edward "Ed" S. Niles May 6, 1920 ~ March 16, 2005 Here is Uncle Ed as a young boy (@ 1928) with his father (my grandfather) Roy S. Niles.

This photo was taken in around 1940 with his mother (my Grandma) Margaret Maude Weidemann.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: Knit Bloggers Rock! DATE: 7:07:00 PM ----- BODY:

Saturday I had the pleasure of spending the day with the wonderful Lisa from Oregon! We met at her hotel and were able to knit a couple of rows and chat. It's amazing how the knit blog world brings so many together. When I walked into the lobby and saw Lisa, it was like meeting an old friend. Lisa was down here with some of the members of her belly dancing troupe; they were on a pilgrimage to the Rakkasah Festival. Lisa explains it this way, "Rakkasah is to belly dancers as Rhinebeck is to knitters." And she invited me to tag along! What a fabulous experience. I never realized there is a whole sub-culture of belly dancing enthusiasts (well, I guess the average Joe doesn't realize there's a whole underworld of knit bloggers either). The festival was fabulous! I have never seen so much beading and sequins in one place. The costumes and jewelry were amazing. After browsing a bit, we sat and watched live performances of dancers and musicians from all over the world. Belly dancing embraces all shapes and sizes. Like Lisa said, you don't see a 200 pound ballerina, but you can see some lovely "fluffy" women making visual poetry through dance. Thank you Lisa for introducing me to this art form. ~~~ Ribby Cardi: Well, she be in pieces waiting for a seaming party. Here she is at the blocking party we had last week. ~~~ From the Ally Archives, or should I say Scruffy Archives. ~~~ I have to make a whirlwind trip to Wyoming due to the death of my Uncle (boy, I wish I had finished Ribby Cardi - it's still winter in WY). Be back Thursday.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: Knitting Monogamously DATE: 5:56:00 PM ----- BODY:

I have been working on Ribby exclusively for the past week or so, snatching moments of time here and there between work, church and family obligations. Then on Saturday, I had several hours (to myself - gasp!) in which I watched TV and knitted on one Ribby sleeve (I had started knitting both sleeves at the same time, but soon gave that up). I merrily knit along, nearly to the end of the increases when, looking over the pattern again, I realized I had skimmed over this little, but all important, phrase at the end of the sleeve increase section, "Work increased stitches into Rib Pattern as established..." Ack! Here I was knitting a sleeve with nice st st panels on each side of the rib pattern! How could I not notice or realize??? Stuffing the errant sleeve into my knitting bag, I spent the next 12 hours or so deciding if I could live with it or not. I could not, so I ripped the whole sleeve out and started again. Four hours of uninterrupted knitting wasted! I later read on the Ribby Cardi KAL that another knitter had made the same mistake, but she continued on. She says it looks ok (a photo was not available) and I suppose my would too. However, I don't think I could honestly finish my Ribby with the st st panel sleeves and know I did my best. This is just about the same point I was on with the errant sleeve when I ripped it out. Now I'm nearly to the cap shaping on the fully ribbed sleeve. ~~~ Bron recently finished a beautiful freeform crocheted pillow and I had jokingly commented that I would need to have instructions for any freeform knitting or crocheting I would attempt (thus defeating the point of freeform). But lo and behold I found this book on freeform knitting and crocheting. There are some really pretty and intriguing designs and projects that I am anxious to explore. So here's to freeform knitting/crocheting with directions. ~~~ Don't forget my Stash Sale in the previous post below.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: More from the Embarrassingly Large Yarn Stash DATE: 11:40:00 AM ----- BODY:

For Sale! ~~~ 1 and 3/4 balls of Lamb's Pride Worsted; 85% Wool, 15% Mohair; 190 yards for a full skein; color Sun Yellow (seconds). $10.00, includes shipping. ~~~ 5 and a bit balls of Bucilla Wool/Shetland; 95% virgin fleece wools, 5% imported shetland; color #357 (gold); great for felting; 2 oz each; $8.00 including shipping. ~~~ Colinette Chenille DK; 100% cotton; 200 m/218 yards each. Colorway: Toucan (left) and Autumn Leaves (right). $6.00 each includes shipping. ~~~ More Colinette. Upper left: 1 ball salsa; 100% Cotton in color Turquoise (I think); 100 m/109 yards. Upper right: 1 ball Mohair; 78% mohair, 13% wool, 9% nylon; color #99 Ice; 175 m/191 yards. Foreground: 1 ball Zanziba; 50% wool, 50% viscose; color Ice (I think); 100 m/109 yards. $6.00 each including shipping. ~~~ And yet more Colinette. In back: 2 balls Salsa, 100% Cotton in color Terracotta; 100 m/109 yards. Left front: 1 ball Circe; 53% wool, 41% viscose, 6% nylon; color #112 Velvet Gold; 80 m/87 yards. Right front: 1 ball Wigwan Cotton Tape; 100% Cotton; Color Burnt Ochre (I think); 170m/185 yards. $6.00 each. ~~~ Four balls Ironston Felicia yarn; 71% cotton/29% rayon blend; 142 yard/each; Pretty, deep orange/mango color; $12.00 including shipping. ~~~ SOLD! 250 yds British mohair (78% mohair, 13% wool, 9% nylon); handpainted by Katsara in the Riviera colorway. $10.00 including shipping. ~~~ Three Leisure Arts booklets: 1) Quick Crochet Ripple Afghans Book 2 (4 designs) - $1.00; 2) Birthstone Afghans (12 designs) - $3.00; 3) A Year of Q-Hook Afghans (12 designs) - $3.00. $5.00 for the lot. ~~~ Four crochet purse/bag pattern booklets. 1) Crochet Chenille Purses (10 designs) - $3.00; 2) Charming Handbags to Crochet (8 designs) - $3.00; 3) Crochet Trendsetting Totes (8 designs) - $3.00; 4) Crochet Purses on the Go (5 designs) - $3.00). $10.00 for the lot. ~~~ From my previous post - Still Available: 6 balls of Euro Yarns Brushstrokes Cotton in color #109; 119 yards each; 100% mercerized cotton. I paid $8.50 each so I'll take $25.00, including shipping. ~~~ These are two balls of Colinette's Mezzotint wool, which has been discontinued. There is no colorway listed, but the colors are pastel pinks and blues. 125 meters (approx. 130 yards) each. $10.00, including shipping. If interested, email me at marieedmondson (at) yahoo (dot) com.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: Stash Sale! DATE: 10:01:00 AM ----- BODY:

I spent Wednesday evening rummaging around in the Embarrassingly Large Yarn Stash and came up with lots of yarn to sell. And to look at my yarn closet, you wouldn't even notice that a dent has been made. I tell you, it is almost sinful how much yarn I have accumulated. ~~~ SOLD! First up are 2 balls of Lorna's Laces Shepherd Sock in color #18 Watercolor; 215 yards each; 80% Superwash Wool, 20% Nylon; machine washable. I paid $10.50 each, so I'll take $12.00, including shipping. ~~~ SOLD! Here are 3 balls of Colinette Fandango in their Jamboree colourway; 100 meters (approx. 109 yards) each; 100% pure cotton. $15.00 for the lot, including shipping. ~~~ 6 balls of Euro Yarns Brushstrokes Cotton in color #109; 119 yards each; 100% mercerized cotton. I paid $8.50 each so I'll take $25.00, including shipping. ~~~ SOLD! One ball Twinkle Toes fingering weight wool handpainted by Over the Rainbow Yarns; approximately 4 oz./500 yards. $7.00 including shipping. ~~~ These are two balls of Colinette's Mezzotint wool, which has been discontinued. There is no colorway listed, but the colors are pastel pinks and blues. 125 meters (approx. 130 yards) each. $10.00, including shipping. ~~~ SOLD! Six balls of Crystal Palace Waikiki in color #2954 (peach); 100 yards each; 65% Rayon, 35% Cotton. $20.00, including shipping. ~~~ SOLD! OK, this is 3-ish balls of a handpainted Softball Cotton by Over the Rainbow Yarns in muted purples, blues and greens; approx. 8 oz/400 yards. $10, including shipping. ~~~ SOLD! Three balls Cascade Yarns Sierra Quatro in three different colorways: #84 (greens, peach); #85 (yellow, blue green, coral); and #81 (green, purple, yellow); 191 yards each; 80% cotton, 20% wool. I paid $9.25 each so I'll take either $5.00 each or $12.00 for the lot, including shipping. ~~~ If you would like to purchase any of the above yarns, please email me at marieedmondson (at) yahoo (dot) com. Well, that's it for today. More to follow...

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: Ribby Cardi Progress! DATE: 6:05:00 PM ----- BODY:

Back is done; Left Front is done; Right Front nearly done! And then it's time to cast on for the sleeves. Since I had good luck in the past with knitting two sleeves at the same time, I'm going to use that strategy for Ribby. I really like the Peruvian Highland Wool from elann. I read on the Ribby Cardi KAL (for which I did not join for fear of jinxing myself), that some knitters found the wool scratchy. I don't at all; I actually find it very soft and soothing. As many of you know I have a weakness for varigated wool yarn and as I've been knitting away on Ribby - knitting miles of solid red - I have been dreaming about this pattern in a cool varigated yarn such as Noro's Kureyon or Colinette's Skye. So we'll see how the finished product fits before I decide to knit this pattern up again. Speaking of varigated yarn, I got the new Patternworks 2005 Spring Catalog and saw this: That's the Sideways-Striped Pullover knit in Filatura Di Crosa's 127 Print. I love this sweater! However, pricing it out, it will cost over $120 in yarn! Boo Hoo! I am seriously thinking about funding options and one that keeps coming to mind is selling off some of the Embarrasingly Large Yarn Stash. Inspired by Bron, I'm going to venture into the stash closet and critically evaluate all my yarn accumulation. So keep a look out here for my Stash-Busting Sale. ~~~ From the Ally Archives:

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: meme'd me DATE: 6:25:00 PM ----- BODY:

I got tagged by Bron for the knitting meme. Do you knit continental or English? I suppose you'd call what I do English style. I throw. I don't wrap the yarn around any fingers so this may account for my loose tension. I've watched my friend badcat Karin knit Continental, but haven't tried it for myself -- yet. How long ago did you learn to knit? I can remember working on the incredible increasing/decreasing scarf out of industrial grade acrylic when I was about 8 or 9 (I wonder what ever happened to that scarf...). However, my real first introduction to knitting was on my honeymoon when my mother-in-law taught me to knit (English). Then I put the needles down for about 17 years. First FO? Well, other than the incredible acrylic scarf I'd have to say that it was the wool vest I knit while in New Zealand on my honeymoon. It was in a gastly powder blue and very "80's." I think I still have the pattern around somewhere... I finally sent it to Goodwill about four years ago (before I got back into knitting) after having it move with me about 9 times and never being worn. Favorite yarn? I'd have to say wool and wool blends are my favorite. I absolutely love hand-painted varigated yarns. Favorite pattern? I am really enjoying the Ribby Cardi pattern right now (but I'll have to reserve final judgement after it is completed to see if it fits right). A poncho pattern I've knit more than twice is the Cape Bohemia - that was a very fun and quick pattern. Favorite pattern source? The internet baby! I have amassed quite a knitting book and magazine collection, but I must admit, most of the patterns I return to again and again came from the internet. Favorite needles? Addi Turbos for most projects. However, for scarves, my favorites are short, straight Clover Bamboo needles. Nicest thing you’ve ever knit? I would say the Wave & Shell Stole knit from some fabulous hand-painted wool from Over the Rainbow yarns. Most hated project? My first sweater knit from very expensive Colinette yarns. I knitted the short version of the cover sweater on the Colinette Lifestyles Pattern Book. I knit this when I had just gotten back into knitting about three years ago. This was before I realized that gauge was my friend. This sweater is a real knuckle dragger and very wide, with a neckline as big as Lake Tahoe. It has been sitting in my frog pond pile for years. Great yarn and I know I have enough for a sweater...hmmmm. Who are you going to pass this on to? I'm going to pass this on to Susan from FuffyToes and Dustbunnies and Suzy from KnitTime.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: The rest of the weekend... DATE: 6:39:00 PM ----- BODY:

The next day we took a very lovely, winding ride over to the coast. With the smell of Blue Gum (eucalyptus) and ferns growing along the side of the road, Graeme remarked how like New Zealand the landscape seemed. Even though he has lived in the US for over 22 years, nostalgia overcomes him every once in a while. At last we came upon the Pacific Ocean. It was a cloudy, blustery day, but still very beautiful. We took our time cruising the coast and looking at shops in the towns we passed through. That evening we met up with my brother, sister-in-law, his youngest daughter, her boyfriend and some other friends at the Half Moon Bay Brewing Company for dinner. Then it was off to the Ritz Carlton to see Bobby Caldwell in concert. Some of you may not be familiar with Bobby Caldwell, but one of his best known songs is What You Won't Do for Love. What made this concert extra special was my niece Christine sung back up... ...and her husband, Russ Miller, played the drums. It was a really great show played in an intimate setting. ~~~ In knitting news, here is the back of Ribby Cardi. I have since finished the back and have started on the right front. I hope to be up to the armhole shaping by end of American Idol tonight.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: So this is love... DATE: 5:47:00 PM ----- BODY:

It has been nearly three years since my husband and I had gotten away for an overnight weekend - alone! You know it has to be love, when your spouse agrees to go to a "yarn convention" and be surrounded by fanatical knitters. Saturday around Noon, we arrive at the Westin and checked in. I knew immediately we were in the right place because of the multitude of novelty scarves draped around necks and many women tucked away in quiet corners knitting. So we just followed the miriad of ponchos and shawls to the convention center next door. The Stitches West Marketplace was a circus. Wall to wall people moving every which way. One saw many people in beautiful hand-knit attire - sweating away! It was so hot in the convetion hall, I was glad I left my Rosedale at home. Later when Graeme and I were discussing the Marketplace he said, "I was just standing there admiring a display when this arm comes out of nowhere and plucks a couple of balls of yarn out from under me." My husband really dislikes crowds and after wandering an isle or two, I could see that glazed look in his eye. So I sent him off on a Diet Coke run. I believe he ran into the same Coke machine the Fickle Knitter is flipping off in her February 13 Stitches report. I enjoyed ebbing and flowing with the crowd. One has to have the right mind-set before venturing into the Stitches Marketplace - kind of like Christmas shopping the day after Thanksgiving. I was on the lookout for great bargains, and I found myself thinking, "I could get that cheaper off the Internet, including shipping!" I finally stumbled across some beautiful recycled silk and bought a pound of it. I also bought a couple of patterns. That was the extent of my haul. But I did enjoy fondling many yarns that I've read about on the knit blogs, basking in all the beautiful colors and textures, and admiring the model garments and accessories. At 6:30 that evening we met up with other knit bloggers and headed over to Bennigans for the Dinner-a-long. It was a bit awkward at first, but once we all got settled, conversation began to flow and soon we were gabbing away. Here we are L-R: ME!, Delia, CJ, and J Strizzy. And on the other side of the table L-R: Seltsame, Marissa, Kris, and Jen Unfortunately, I didn't get a good closeup of La, but you can see her way in the back on the right hand side of this pic. And that's my precious husband in the foreground. Thank you dear heart for braving the knitting underworld. I had made up a bunch of stitch markers and passed them around for everybody to pick one. When the topic of knitting technique came up, Delia informed us that she knitted with one needle in her armpit. Intrigued, I asked her to show me. In the words of Mr. Spock, "Fasinating." It really was! Then everybody began bringing out their knitting projects. Very soon, the restaurant manager asked us to move to another booth because it was kareoke night and we were sitting on the stage. Taking pity on my husband, I took this opportunity to say our goodbyes. From what I hear, the company and knitting were great and the kareoke was bad, real bad. After returning to the hotel that evening, I immediate cast on for an envelope bag from my recycled silk. This is actually crocheted, does one actually cast on in crochet? Perhaps, chain up? Anyway, the recyled silk makes a great fabric, kind of rough and dense, perfect for purses. I have made one other and have "chained up" one more. The first two have already been gifted, the third is for me. Tomorrow, I will talk about the rest of the knitti-me and sacto-graeme's weekend getaway.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: So, You Vant Pictures... DATE: 1:11:00 PM ----- BODY:

Noro Vest from the latest issue of Vogue Knits. Button drop-stitch vest knit quite a while ago from a pattern in the Fall 2002 Issue of Knitter's Magazine (cover vest).

At craft group last Sunday, my daughter Sarah took her two girlfriends out and had a photo shoot showcasing my knitted vests. I'm thinking they had way too much fun.

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-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: In Loving Remembrance~ DATE: 10:00:00 AM ----- BODY:

Ralph Raymond Niles January 21, 1923~February 8, 1995 I miss you Dad.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: Fastest Swatch in the West DATE: 3:10:00 PM ----- BODY:

Well the new sweater project of choice is The Ribby Cardi! Inspired by Sahara and other Ribbies glimpsed around the knit blog world, I decided to give this pattern a try. After downloading the pattern, I clicked on over to elann.com for some Peruvian Highland Wool. I chose color #2020 Claret for the body and color #0294 Chocolate Truffle for the sleeves. I couldn't believe it when I saw the receptionist walking down the hallway today with a box that looked suspiciously like it was filled with yarny goodies. I squealed and leaped over my desk to meet him half way. This was my first order with elann, and I was very impressed to receive the order within three days! So the yarn sat by my desk distracting me as I worked. Knowing I didn't have the correct sized needles, I decided to make a quick trip to my LYS during lunch. I am a loose knitter and always have to go down one or two needle sizes to achieve gauge. The Ribby Cardi calls for needle sizes 6 and 7 US, so I sat down at the table and began to knit a swatch with #5's. Too big, so I rip out and begin another swatch on #4's. Meanwhile, my lunch hour is ticking away. I then measure the #4 swatch. What the...? I can't believe it, still too big. Rip. I dubiously take out the #3 needles and cast on for the third time. Ladies and gentlemen, I have never knitted with anything smaller than #5 US; but if I was going to beat this sweater curse, I wasn't going to let a little thing like needle size dissuade me. So I swatched. My needles were flying as I anxiously watched the clock. Quickly now, I laid out the swatch and measured. Ack! It was still just a tad too big, by a half stitch or so. Close enough. I ran out of there with #2 and #3 US size needles. What have I gotten myself into?

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: The Curse of the Sweater DATE: 5:50:00 PM ----- BODY:

It looks like I contracted the sweater curse again. After my successful completion of Rosedale* and Marilyn** at the beginning of last year, I have had only frustration after frustration since then.

>>Autumn Cardi - as much as I block and steam, stretch and coerce, I can't seem to get the silly thing to come together;

>>Marta - I picked this put after being in the UFO pile for nine months or so and began knitting away only to discover my tension was off. I tried knitting tighter, looser; nothing worked. It looks totally wonky. So Marta will go to the rip pond too. Not sure if I will restart Marta or use the yarn for another project.

The Sweater Curse didn't extend to vests however. I successfully finished up the Noro vest featured in the latest issue of Vogue Knitting. Of course the vest I knit doesn't show up on the preview page (humph). You'll just have to wait for a pic. The pattern was very straight forward and a fast, easy knit. The allure of Noro Kureyon kept it interesting.

Some other FO's have been my husband's birthday (Multidirectional) scarf, a frou frou birthday scarf for my sister, and a chunky Colinette One-Zero scarf for my Secret Pal III, whom I haven't introduced yet (my BAD!). Pics someday. (If you haven't noticed, in addition to being ho hum, my computer has been out of commission - incompetent idiots at Best Buy - two weeks, two weeks, and they haven't fixed the problem!)

I've cast on for another Art Nouveau Poncho. And I'm on the prowl for a sweater or cardi pattern - I'm going to lick this curse yet!

So it looks like I won't be sporting any new knitwear at Stiches West, but that won't stop me. I'm going shopping Baby and I'm dragging husband along to carry the loot. JenLa is organizing a casual gathering of knit bloggers that Saturday night - you bet I'll be there with knitting needles in one hand and a drink in the other!

I want to introduce my totally awesome Secret Pal III - Pixie of Pixie Purls. It has been a pleasure spoiling her over the last few months. She is a fairly new knitter - but has progressed very quickly. She also has taken up sewing and has been quilting up a storm. Go on over and say "Hi!"

Also, to the wonderful woman who spoiled me during Secret Pals III, Susan of Fluffytoes and Dustbunnies. She tragically lost her father in October and despite that continued to send me thoughtful gifts and notes. Thank you Susan. I hope to meet up with yer at Stitches West.

I wanted to publicly say a big THANK YOU to Bliss for the wonderful Knitting Pattern-A-Day Calendar she sent me for my birthday.

I think that's it for unfinished business (please let me know if I missed anyone - I've been suffering from dementia a bit lately...). While I have acknowleged gifts and notes directly, I just wanted to post here how much I appreciate the knit blogging community and the friends I have made as a result of this blog.

Until next time - Knit ON!

~~~

*I still love and wear my Rosedale at least twice a week!

**I wore Marily once. Have you ever have a piece of clothing that just doesn't do it for you? Well, this sweater is one of those. I just felt dumpy in it; so it's relegated to the frog pond. It was a good learning experience for cabling and seaming though, so not a total loss.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: Heavy Sigh... DATE: 11:26:00 AM ----- BODY:

Yes, I'm still here. I believe this has been the longest period I have gone without blogging. Thanks so much for the kind emails and comments wondering where I've been. I'm functioning and knitting and there's even some positive stuff going on in my life—but I've just not have the enthusiasm to blog about it. I had a revelation today. Every year I go through this; from about early to mid-January until the first or second week in February I go through a lull. I don't know why I wonder about it, there's good cause. My beloved father fought his last battle with cancer during these weeks. He would have celebrated his 82nd birthday last Friday. On February 8, ten years ago this year, he passed on. Dad, I miss you.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: This is a knitting blog after all... DATE: 6:30:00 PM ----- BODY:

I have an FO to share! Here is my first Sophie Bag! I used Noro Kureyon in color 128; finally succumbing to a major Noro fix. For the handles I made some great beaded handles. I learned how to braid with five strands—very cool! ~~~ Are you up to another pic from the Ally Archieves?

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: Seize the Moment ~ Cherish the Moment DATE: 5:58:00 PM ----- BODY:

About three-and-a-half weeks ago, my sister-in-law (in Portland, OR) emailed saying that her dad, Jim, wasn't feeling too well and went to the hospital for observation. The next day, Tuesday, they discovered he had too much calcium in his system, causing confusion. Wednesday they found out that he had lung lesions. Thursday they discovered that he had bone, pancreas, and liver involvement. Friday they did a head CT to find out if there was brain involvement and then they transferred him from the hospital to a care center. He passed away Friday. Why oh why didn't I respond to or call right after receiving that email?! What was I doing that was so important that I couldn't take a moment to acknowlege his illness and offer help or encouragement to my brother's family? Seize each and every moment, my friends; you never know what tomorrow will bring. ~~~ As many of you know, my son is now 14 and very teenagery. As he has gotten older, the sweet boy has started to be covered up with "cool." Needless to say, spontaneous demonstrations of affection are few and far between. Last year, as I shared in my December 22, 2003 rant - I mean, post, Gabriel's 13th birthday turned out to be such a disappointment. This year, although I counseled otherwise, Gabriel was not willing to wait until after the Christmas holidays to celebrate, so birthday party planning commenced. The party of choice this year was Laser Tag! So invitations went out and the big day arrived - and so did the guests, with gifts in hand. I was so relieved. After a couple games of laser tag, candle blowing, cake eating, and gift opening, all the boys were cut loose to run wild in the video arcade. Gabriel came up to me sweaty and smiling and said, "Mom, this is the best birthday party ever!" He then gave me a big hug and kiss - in the middle of arcade, teeming with teenagery boys and girls. Wow! Cherish the moment, my friends, cherish the moment.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: How Does One Begin the New Year? DATE: 5:13:00 PM ----- BODY:

Puking one's guts out in the movie theater toilet is perhaps one way. And the spewing was not (unfortunately) induced by any merry making either, let me tell you. So I spent the majority of a perfectly good long weekend groaning on the couch watching TV - such a waste! But I'm not letting the first weekend in 2005 set the tone for the year - no siree! 2004 was a horrendous year for me personally and professionally. I can remember 1994 being a horrendous year too; at least I didn't end up in the looney bin this time (hee!). So here are my New Year's Goals (I think Resolutions only set one up for failure - at least goals are something one can strive for): 1. Water - Drink more water... 2. Exercise - We joined the Family Fitness Center and I'm going to take advantage of it and I may even discover I like exercise - but don't hold your breath. Check back with me in three months, we'll see if I'm sticking to it. 3. Bible - Read and study more routinely than I have been in the last few years. 4. Prayer - Become a woman of faith and prayer. 5. Organize - the stash, the land fill (known as my garage), the office; the house - MY LIFE! 6. Budget! - This is the year of the budget. We are going to get our finances under control, whatever it takes. Shooting for Awesome Vacation New Zealand/Australia 2006! 7. Colorwork - I want to get beyond the scarf and tackle a colorwork project like one of the fabulous carpet bags in Vicki Square's Folk Bags. 8. Yarn - Only buy yarn for specific projects (no more impulse buying); knit two projects from stash yarn for every one "bought" project. 9. Relationships - Work on getting beyond the yelling and negativity with my teenagery son; appreciating my daughter as the individual she is; romancing with my husband; becoming more genuinely interested in those I come in contact with and developing friendships. 10. Work Ethic - strive to be above reproach, to do my best in whatever I put my hand to. Well, that's a tall order, but with God's help I will certainly strive to reach these goals. I am a work in progress afterall.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: Relieved~ DATE: 8:25:00 AM ----- BODY:

My brother-in-law Robert, his wife Bauy, and their daughter Jade were in Thailand visiting Bauy's relatives when the earthquake and resulting tsunami hit. While life here seemed to go on "normally," running in the background was concern for Robert and his precious family. We went about our daily business, but were waiting for The Call. We would listen to the news, but know we wouldn't find out anything specific on our loved ones. Yesterday, Graeme got ahold of his parents in Australia and they were finally able to get through to Robert in Thailand. Robert and his family will be flying home to Australia on Friday. I thank God for His protection over our relatives in the face of such disaster. We must continue to keep the people of Southeast Asia in our thoughts and prayers as they recover from this devastation. As our situations allow, we must send finanical and material aid.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: It's my baby boy's Birthday! DATE: 9:02:00 PM ----- BODY:

Happy 14th Birthday, Gabriel!

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: It's starting to look a bit more like Christmas... DATE: 1:38:00 PM ----- BODY:

... around the Edmondson house. It has been such a "bah humbug" year for me. Usually, as soon as December 1st rolls around I've got that tree up and carols blaring. Not this year; not sure why - might be that I turned 40, or that money is tight, or that my job is so all-consuming that I can't see past my stapler - who knows. Anyway, just the thought of venturing into the land-fill known as my garage to bring out the tree (artificual = husband's choice) and decorations sent me reeling. My daughter, bless her heart, finally brought out her two-foot fiber optic tree (which has been in her room since last year...) and set it up in the living room. On Saturday Graeme and I made a quick trip to my brother's house (1 1/2 hours away) to pick up my Grandmother's "TV" room furniture. My brother and SIL recently got new family room furniture and offered Gran's old furniture to us. We dumped our living room set off at Goodwill and brought in Grandma's set. We're talking vintage 1950's and really cool. Last night I was so enthused about having a fairly clean living room and new furniture that I actually doned my Haz Mat suit and entered the land-fill for some Christmas decorations. (I still couldn't bring myself to drag out the tree and ornaments though - so the fiber optic tree stays.) Here are a few Christmas "vignettes" I set up: I used to be all "Victorian" with the Christmas decorations, but have since been moving into a more "rustic" direction. I collect Nativity Scenes and this is one of my favorites. Yes, that's the fiber optic tree on the right. It provides quite a light show when it's dark. Although this is not your typical Nativity scene, I like it because it shows Joseph playing with the baby Jesus. Most Nativity scenes focus more on the mother and child and the holiness - but this scene shows the "humanity" of the Christ-child. And here is a "rustic" Father Christmas just hanging out.

Here is one of the chairs, the ottoman and side table from my Grandma's set. That wonderful lamp was made by my Grandfather. Click here to see the other chair and here to see the sofa. The sofa is a bit "saggy" and will need to be reinforced at some point - but I'm loving it just the same. Merry Christmas Everybody!

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: Cookies DATE: 4:44:00 PM ----- BODY:

I have never considered myself a cook, baker, sous-chef or anything related to the culinary arts—I barely get by (and thank God for microwaves!). Last Friday my office hosted a cookie exchange where each employee brought one or two dozen cookies to eat and share. Not wanting to flake out and show up with store-bought ginger snaps, or worse - buy Costco cookies and put them on a plate thus decieving my co-workers, I decided to try my hand at baking. Reaching deep into the family recipe archives (well, after a few frantic calls and emails to family members) I came up with my Grandmother's Gumdrop Cookie recipe. ~~~ Grandma’s Gumdrop Cookies 1 Cup Butter 1 Cup Brown Sugar 1 Cup Sugar 2 Eggs 2 tsp Vanilla 2 Cups Flour 2 Tbl Baking Powder ½ tsp Baking Soda ½ tsp Salt 2 Cups Oatmeal 1 Cup Coconut (optional, but recommended) 1 Cup Chopped Gumdrops (not Spice Drops - get the fruity ones) 1 Cup chopped Nuts (optional) Cream sugar and butter, add eggs and vanilla and beat well Mix flour, salt, soda and baking powder in a separate bowl and then stir into creamed mixture Add Oats, Coconut, Nuts, and Gumdrops Roll into balls about the size of a small walnut and press flat with fork Bake on lightly greased baking sheet for about 10-14 minutes at 350 degrees Makes about 70 cookies. ~~~ My boss gave me the best compliment, "Wow Marie, you're Grandma sure knew what she was doing!"

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: Debriefing the Holiday Boutique DATE: 9:52:00 PM ----- BODY:

On December 14th a group of beautiful and talented women got together to offer their wares to last minute shoppers. I was honored to be included with this group of local artisans. Here is a photo of my little corner. FO Altert! This poncho, was the belle of the ball. I love how the Crystal Palace Waikiki yarn drapes. At first I wasn't too crazy about the peach stripe, but now I like it. And a medley of scarves... Another FO alert. This is a cute vest knit from 100% Labrador wool, hand-dyed by Danette Taylor. Both the poncho and this vest look fabulous on my friend Karin. When the poncho, vest, Karin, and my camera are in the same place at the same time, I'll get a modeling photo. And here is Cori with a wonderful display of her hand beaded jewelry draped on a replica of the Eiffle Tower. This is Charr, who was gracious enough to host this event at her home. The multi-talented Charr had a selection of hand-made jewelry, hand-painted silk scarves, and photographs. Here are Kim and Karin who have embarked on creating a new line of unique lotions, bath salts, lip balms, body sprays—definitely the "Nectar of the Goddesses."

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: Is it just me? DATE: 11:04:00 AM ----- BODY:

Despite the great time I had in Vegas with my sister, I’m a bit perturbed about the reception I received from my cousins. Our trip to Vegas coincided with my Uncle’s 80th birthday party. Relatives from as far away as Wyoming and Connecticut gathered to celebrate. There were about 30 of us; most I hadn’t seen (albeit briefly at my Aunt’s funeral last year) in five to ten years and a couple for as long as 23 years! What puzzled me was not one cousin asked about my husband or children, what I did for a job, whether I went to college – nothing! And later talking with my sister, she found the same was true for her. Having been in the corporate working world and customer service for the last 20 years, I have developed skills for drawing people out and engaging them in conversation. You may call this small talk, but I am genuinely interested in those I come in contact with; especially cousins I haven’t seen in 20 years. I know that ~

• Cousin Kathy loves country music and is a manager at Longs Drug;
• Cousin Jason is fluent in Spanish and is working on becoming a certified elementary school teacher;
• Cousin Greg says he’s in “banking,” but it turns out he really only sells ATM systems to chain stores;
• Cousin Eileen has trouble with her demonstrative Italian in-laws;

And on, and on… I’m not implying that my life story is so interesting (I work, I knit, I blog, oh and I have a family too) that their lives would be eternally changed, but a little common courtesy and give and take would be appreciated. Is it a sign of the times that people generally are becoming so self-absorbed that they can care less about those they come in contact with—unless, of course, they want something. Or is it that they have a hard time getting beyond their comfort zone and reaching out to others?

Is it just me or am I the odd one? I’d be interested in what you think.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: Where Else Can You... DATE: 10:17:00 AM ----- BODY:

visit New York ... and Paris all in one day... ... And celebrate the Holiday Season in a BIG WAY?!!! ... Only in Vegas, Baby! From the fabulous casinos, to the scrumptious food, to the specialty Marguaritas (Neon Kamakazi), to the wonderful company - we had a great time!

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: Viva Las Vegas Baby! DATE: 7:30:00 AM ----- BODY:

(It's amazing what a couple weeks in the gym can do...) See you next week!

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: Curses! DATE: 5:02:00 PM ----- BODY:

I wanted a change around here, but forgot to copy all my side-bar doo dads. Looks like I'll have to recreate everything like my web ring links, FO's and WIP's lists - Oh NO!, I lost my scrolling marque - does anybody know where that code is? Curses, curses! EEEK! I just realized I lost my commenting capability too! Well go and email me with any words of wisdom or sympathy at marieedmondson at yahoo dot com. ~~~ Added Later: I was able to add Blogspot Comments... ~~~ As my dad use to say, "Some people live and learn, other people just live."

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: Lookie, lookie - more goodies! DATE: 7:48:00 AM ----- BODY:

Here are some cute, cute ornaments from the fantastically creative Tifff. And you may notice that the ornaments have BEADED detail. And here is a wonderful birthday-Christmas present from the absolutely brilliant Bron. The gift included a chili pepper themed hot pad, to bring a little of the Southwest to Northern California, a stunning BEADED crocheted snowflake ornament, and a fabulous BEADED bracelette, which is sparkling on my wrist right now as I type. Is this a KNITTING blog? I'm starting to wonder. Anyway, I've been plodding along on the Art Nouveau Poncho and I finally found my husband's unfinished multidirectional scarf, which he is anxiously awaiting now that the weather has turned chilly. Have I mentioned that my sister is taking me to Las Vegas for my birthday? My plane leave Saturday morning.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: I'll have beads all around please... DATE: 9:52:00 PM ----- BODY:

Look what my kids got me for my birthday! That's a nifty carosel with modular trays holding lots of beading goodies. Also, received is a great beading book that I've already used for inspiration. I'm raising a couple of enablers aren't I? Speaking of beading here are a few of my latest projects: Here is a set of stitch markers I sent off to Bliss (http://goddess1.typepad.com/i_hide_yarn/) for her birthday. A couple of braceletts I made for my Secret Pal II, Chandra (http://perfectlyfine.typepad.com/), and her daughter K. Another bracelett for my sister Vicki given in appreciation for hosting the whole clan for Thanksgiving. And for a special badcat (http://badcat.blogspot.com/) for her birthday, a book mark. The large bobble is a piece of Paua (a cousin to abaloni) shell from New Zealand. ~~~ Thanks for all your well wishes for my birtday! I really, really appreciate all my blog buddies. You guys are the best!

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: Sigh... DATE: 1:50:00 AM ----- BODY:

Yes, it's my 40th birthday. ~~~ There's knitting going on, but no pics to show for it. I have crafty Sunday going on today, so I'm planning on sewing "knitti-me" tags into all my boutique items.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: 15 Minutes DATE: 8:33:00 AM ----- BODY:

Check out my friend Charr's "15 Minutes" in The Sacramento News & Review. ~~~ Oh, and I found an FO in "My Pictures" on the computer, which I forgot to post. These are a couple of fingerless mitts I made Bliss' Kiddo in exchange for the wonderful socks she knit me. ~~~ From deep in the Ally Archives

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: Eeek! DATE: 10:41:00 AM ----- BODY:

I left my digital camera at my sister's house! After tearing the car, suitcases, and house apart and then having visions of unscrupulous characters walking off with MY camera, my sister called me with the news that it was sitting on her dinning room table. So as a result, I am unable to take or download pictures - boo hoo! Fortunately, my mom is coming to town this weekend, so hopefully she can bring my camera with her. (Tifff, just as soon as I can get it together, I'll send pics of stuff I think you might find interesting for the swap - ok?) ~~~ I want to give a huge SHOUT OUT to Kate of "A Case of Fiber Fever" fame who stepped in as my SPII Angel. She sent me a package filled with beautiful Cascade 220 wool in gorgeous autumnal colors, a Sophie Bag pattern and some knitting notions; of which one can not have too many of. Thank you, thank you Kate for your generousity. ~~~ The Christmas Boutique I participate in each year is on December 14th! Double EEEK! I need to take stock, sew my little "knitti-me" tags on each item, price them and perhaps churn out a couple more items. I hope I sell every stitch, because that, my friends, is my Christmas present buying money. And yes, I have not even started my Christmas shopping yet...

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: Grumpy Old Man DATE: 11:14:00 AM ----- BODY:

Over the years Saturday Night Live has provided us with many recurring characters. Characters such as the Church Lady, Cajun Man, Pat, Mr. Subliminal and a host of other well-loved personalities. One of our favorites was The Grumpy Old Man. My brother took on The Grumpy Old Man persona and brought it to a whole new level. Over the years my brother's Grumpy Old Man has visited many a family gathering; however, we hadn't seen him in recent years. So we were overjoyed when the Grumpy Old Man made an appearance at my Mother's 80th Birtday Party! ~~~ The Grumpy Old Man Sketch I haven't seen you for many years, Seri, and I can't believe the things they tell me about you. Why they say you have a Recreational Vehicle that has a bed and toilet. Well Sister, IN MY DAY, all we had was one old Model A Ford. We couldn't all fit in the seats, so us 8 kids had to take turns ridin' on the back bumper AND WE LIKED IT! One time little sister drug her feet too long and rubbed all the skin right down to the bone...AND SHE LIKED IT! When we had to use the bathroom, we didn't say, "Oh daddy, oh daddy, stop the car at the nice clean bathroom," we just used an old coffee can, AND WE LIKED IT!" When we stopped for the night, we didn't have any warm, cushy bed to sleep on, we just spread out one thin little blanket on the ground and then all just laid there with the rocks pokin' us and the ants crawling on us, AND WE LIKED IT! And another thing...You really stooped low when you bought a computer with this e-mail stuff. Why, IN MY DAY, after a long day's work, we sat on a hard wooden chair with only a dim oil lamp for light and wrote real letters. We had to dip the pen in ink every couple of words and if we made a mistake, we had to start all over, BUT WE LIKED IT! None of this "spell check" and "cut and paste," nosiree, it was nothin' to take 4 or 5 hours to finish a good letter, then we had to walk 5 miles to town to mail it, not just push a sissy, softy little "send" button! But believe it or not, WE LIKED IT and it made us tough. An' one more thing Seri, IN MY DAY we didn't have these fancy dancy little cell phones. There was no such thing as reachin' in your pocket for your sissy little cell phone and callin' from the comfort and convenience of your home or car. No sir, IN MY DAY, you dealt with it! All we had was one phone at the general store. And if we ever wanted to use it, we had to hike 5 miles down a dirt road in a pair of worn out boots with holes in the bottom and then wait in line to use the phone with cut and blistered feet, AND WE LIKED IT! There was none of this just calling people whenever you felt like it. Even when we was sick, we didn't call the doctor and say, "oh doctor, oh doctor, I'm sick, bring me some medicine," or "oh doctor, doctor, Billy's cut off his thumb chopin' wood, please come over quick!" No, when we got sick, we just laid there with fever and chills, AND WE LIKED IT! When Billy cut off his thumb, we just tied an old rag around the stump until it scabbed over, AND HE LIKED IT! Yes, BACK IN MY DAY, things were tough and we were tough AND WE LIKED IT THAT WAY.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: I Am Thankful For... DATE: 2:02:00 PM ----- BODY:

In the midst of having a personal, professional, spiritual melt-down last night, I was reminded by my precious husband, that I have much to be thankful for. ~~~ I Am Thankful For . . . * the mess to clean up after a party because it means I have been surrounded by friends; * the taxes I pay because it means I'm employed; * the clothes that fit a little too snug because it means I have enough to eat; * the spot I find at the far end of the parking lot because it means I am capable of walking; * all the complaining I hear about our government because it means we have freedom of speech; * that lady behind me in church who sings off key because it means I can hear; * the piles of laundry and ironing because it means my loved ones are nearby; * the lawn that needs mowing, windows that need cleaning because it means I have a home; * my huge heating bill because it means that I am warm; * weariness and aching muscles at the end of the day because it means I have been productive; * the alarm that goes off in the early morning hours because it means I am alive. (Unknown Author) ~~~ Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: Fitness and Humiliation DATE: 3:33:00 PM ----- BODY:

I showed up to my orientation at the Family Fitness Center on Saturday all decked out in my sweat suit, terry cloth towel, and blindingly white tennies (I decided to forego the terry cloth headband). I was hoping to have a Greek god for a trainer but ended up with a wiry little guy who was young enough to be my son (eek!). After giving me a general overview of the program, he took me upstairs to demonstrate the various torture devises. Wow, the cardio machines have certainly come a long way. Now you plug in your age and weight, hold on tight and the machine gives your heart rate and let's you know when you're about to keel over and die. At one point the trainer took me over to an Ab machine and instructed me to sit down then pull a padded bar up to my chest. Easier said than done. I literally had to go into contortions just to get into position. Once adjusting the weights, he instructed me to bend from the waist pushing the padded bar with my chest. To my great dismay, I discovered my stomach oozing out from under the bar hindering me from moving even one inch! (Oh the HUMILIATION!) He suggested we try the Ab bench (for crunches) instead. ~~~ In knitting news, I still have not steamed and seamed my Autumn Cardi. For some reason, I am in a bit of avoidance here. I have a sinking feeling that the set-in sleeves will not set in properly. Send "finishing vibes" my way - please. For the time being, the cardi pieces are sitting in my bedroom occasionally providing a sweet resting place for the cat. In actual knitting news, I've been knitting away on the Stitch Diva Art Nouveau Poncho. Knowing I probably didn't have enough of one color to knit the entire poncho, I knit one skein of a pretty varigated yarn in blues/pinks/peaches/blacks and then added a new skein of solid peach and then went back to the varigated yarn. Not sure if the peach really rings my bell, but since it's not for me, someone is sure to like it - right? I hope to have pictures soon. As I mentioned before, I've been trying to get photos of my mother through the years scanned in for the music montage. Tonight I'll have to make my way into the landfill known as my garage to find the boxes with photos prior to 2000.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: Viruses and Pocket Protectors DATE: 10:15:00 PM ----- BODY:

After a week in the"hospital," we finally got the home computer back. Apparently, it was close to death, but they were able to pull it back from the brink. Armed with more Ad-ware/Spy-ware software, I hope we'll be in business for a few more months. I don't understand how seemingly intelligent people can spend their time creating viruses to infect computers. Why can't they put their talents to more productive uses like ending world hunger? What tops it off, is I believe they think it's funny. Well, I'm not laughing. Perhaps this is retribution for all the pocket protector jokes.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: My Wings are Clipped! DATE: 4:42:00 PM ----- BODY:

The home computer is at the doctor again. Printer/Scanner and CPU aren't talking to each other despite my attempts to reinstall the software (humph). I am in the process of gathering tons of photos of my mother through the years and scanning them so I can produce a music montage of her life for her 80th birthday party (the day after Thanksgiving). Of course I have been brought to a standstill due to the aforementioned revolt of my printer/computer. I may end up at Wal-Mart or Kinko's scanning away; hope not, there's nothing like scanning from the comfort of your own home. Anyway, I finished the sleeves to the Autumn Cardi. I am holding off giving any sort of feedback until I can block and seam (not sure if I should panic yet or not...stay tuned). I'll be casting on for the wonderful Art Nouveau Poncho from Stitch Diva Studios - http://www.stitchdiva.com/ProductInfo.aspx?productid=SDS-007 - blogger ain't letting me link. I'll be using some Crystal Palace Waikiki that has been in the Embarrassingly Large Yarn Stash for YEARS! I love the beaded details on the poncho (combining two passions - woot!). We will be going over to join the Family Fitness Center tonight as an early Christmas gift to the four of us. Not sure if this will constitute a life style change for me, but I'll try. The kids, for sure, will benefit.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: Got Cable Needle? DATE: 1:08:00 AM ----- BODY:

What do you do if you're at work and forgot your cable needle at home? Use a chopstick of course! Progress on Autumn Cardi Sleeves~ I had mentioned in a previous post that the Short 'n Chic Jacket pattern (aka The Autumn Cardi) called for a lace pattern around the bottom of the body and up the sleeves. Since I choose not to knit the lace pattern (because it looked like crap), I decided to add a cable element up the sleeves. Click here for a Close-up of the cable. I pirated the cable pattern from the Braided Shell pattern in the Little Box of Sweaters. Getting a little more daring, eh Bron? ~~~ Go on over and say "Hi" to a new knit blogger. Suzy over at KnitTime was so sweet to email me and ask if I minded that she named her blog KnitTime (not to be confused with Knit ti-me). Of course I didn't mind; it's all in the hyphen, ya know?! ~~~ From the Ally Archives:

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: To all our Veterans... DATE: 1:43:00 AM ----- BODY:

...who have served us well—Thank You! My Grandfather Roy Samuel Niles (on left) - 1896-1979 U.S. Army. Served during World War I — France My Grandmother Margaret Maude Niles Weideman - 1900-1990 U.S. Army Airforce. Served during World War II. When her three boys enlisted, she up and joined the Army at the age of 41! (I love this photo; it's so "posed." Don't you love seeing her three boys pictures lined up on the desk?) My Uncle Edward James Niles (on right) - 1920- U.S. Army Airforce. Served during World War II - European Theatre. My UncleLloyd Roderick Niles - 1924- U.S. Navy. Served during World War II - Pacific Theatre. My Father Ralph Raymond Niles (on left) - 1923-1995 Merchant Marines. In times of war the Merchant Seamen are considered part of the armed forces. My father served during World War II (Pacific Theatre) and The Korean War. On December 29, 1944 my father lost a ship, the Hobart Baker Liberty ship, to a Japanese bomb. The Merchant Marines finally attained Veteran Status for their efforts during World War II in 1988.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: Crafty Ladies DATE: 10:55:00 AM ----- BODY:

On Sunday an idea that has been tumbling around in my brain for a couple of years finally came to BE. I started a crafter's group at church. I did not limit the group to only knitting (even though that's what I do), but opened it up to be inclusive of all crafts. We had about 12 ladies from ages 12 to 70-something, all working on projects from beaded cross-stitch to quilting. Not a bad start to this bi-monthly event. It was my goal to bring the generations together. In fact Katie, the woman in her 70’s, was a Home Ec teacher from way back and used to teach knitting and crocheting. She shared with me that she had a hard time reading the newer patterns, so I sat down and helped her “translate.” I’m sure she will be able to teach me a couple of tricks or skills down the road. I also spent the afternoon teaching a couple of women how to knit. Boy was that an experience. I nearly lost them at the cast on…but we prevailed and they were soon knitting away, albeit slowly and a bit awkwardly. I’ve been trying to think back to when I first learned to knit and whether I was awkward and “all thumbs” or not. I dabbled with knitting a bit as a kid and remember knitting an asymmetrical, lacy scarf (not intentionally- he!). But my true introduction to knitting was on my honeymoon and my mother-in-law taught me the ropes. I knitted one vest (very 80’s) and then put the needles down for about 18 years. I then picked up the needles again about two years ago. I don’t remember knitting being unwieldy for me, but came naturally. As I was watching my pupils at the craft group grappling with their needles, I couldn’t help but wonder - was it my teaching or their aptitude. I suppose as in all skill sets, some people have more natural ability than others, but in the end it is still a skill that can be learned. ~~~ Knitting News You may remember in July I started an Autumn Cardi knit from some fabulous hand-dyed yarn from Serendipity in South American. I had actually finished the back, the left front and half the right front. However, on further reflection, I was not too keen on the pattern. So it sat. Then I saw the Short 'n Chic Jacket in the Fall 2004 issue of Cast On magazine and thought that would be a great pattern for the Serendipity yarn. Along the bottom edge of the cardi, the pattern called for a lace pattern. The lace looked like crap with the yarn, so I ripped out and knit it in straight stockinet. Here she is with the back nearly completed. Sleeves will be next and then the collar. It’s a pretty fast knit, especially while knitting pure stocking stitch while watching The Incredibles at the theater (you’ve got to see this movie; it’s hilarious!). I should see myself on Sleeve Island tonight if I can get the back done during lunch today. ~~~ From the Ally Archives

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 10:25:00 AM ----- BODY:

"But in an American election, there are no losers. Because whether or not our candidates are successful, the next morning, we all wake up as Americans. And that - that is the greatest privilege and the most remarkable good fortune that can come to us on earth."

Excerp from John Kerry's concession speech. ~~~ In knitting news I threw down my scraf-in-progress in disgust and started a cardigan for ME! I'm working on the Short 'n Chic Jacket in the Fall 2004 issue of Cast On magazine. It's worked in one piece until I separate for the arm shaping. I've already finished one repeat of the decorative lace pattern that runs around the bottom of the sweater. Every row is different in this lace pattern, and it's looking kind of funky. I know I may have missed a YO or P2tog somewhere, but I'm just forging ahead hoping it will turn out in the end (I'm still ending with the correct number of stitches; so that's a good sign).

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 11:16:00 AM ----- BODY:

Always a day late and a dollar short - that seems to be my life of late. However, the secret is revealed. I was the Secret Pal II to the lovely Chandra of You Were Perfectly Fine blog fame. She tragically lost her job soon after the SPII program started, so the last three months have been rather rough for her. She has, however, been volunteering with the Election Protection 2004 Hot Line (866-OUR-VOTE)! I finished her final gift last night and is sitting at my feet here as I type, waiting for a trip to the post office. My Secret Pal? If you're out there, I would love to meet you. Remember - Go Vote!

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 10:20:00 AM ----- BODY:

My kids are lobbying for making Halloween a school holiday. And no wonder after all the festivities of yesterday. The eyes were pretty puffy and the stomachs pretty upset this morning. Of course there was a sugar high hangover too. With costume pieces and candy wrapper strewn around the house, shriveled pumpkins and horror film burn-out - I would say this Halloween was pretty successful (we did forgo the animal sacrifice though). Leading up to All Hallows Eve here we have Pumpkin Central

Son chose to go the whimsical route with a wacky pumpkin face

Daughter went wild and wonderful with her howling wolf pumpkin And Graeme went spooky with his Headless Horseman My daughter also got artistic with one of my white pillowcases to put all her candy haul in. And for all that, I didn't get pics of the costumes. Needless to say between my son and the neighbor kids (and their dad) we were surrounded my grim reapers. My daughter was a hippie. We choose to let Ally retain her dignity and not dress her up this year.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 8:54:00 AM ----- BODY:

I Am Scarf-icus Three more~ Here is a one-skein wonder knit from some Colinette wool blend in some autumnal colorway. It's fringed with some GGH Fee. Very nice - got lots of compliments when I gave it a "test run." Here is a beautiful feather-light ascot knit from a ball of S. Charles Ritratto given to me by my Secret Pal 2. The photo does not do justice to the beautiful colors. The pattern is loosely based on a scarf in Last-Minute Knitted Gifts (the book- a gift from my Secret Pal 3, I might add). Once it is blocked, it will be going to my mom for her 80th birthday. And lastly, here is a fun scarf knit from acid green Berroco Stars and a slubbed carry-along yarn. The fringe is the carry-along yarn en masse. Have a great weekend everybody!

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 9:24:00 AM ----- BODY:

I've been Blissed! A few weeks ago I set up a couple of swaps with two blog buddies for hand-knit socks. Tifffany came through with a fun pair in eastery/spring colors (see September 24th post) and Bliss sent a pair of autumnal socks. See?! Bliss actually designed the pattern and called them "Flair for Marie Cuffed Socks." How cool is that?! She is now selling the pattern in her I Hide Yarn Boutique. Go on over and take a look. ~~~ I've got beading fever! I've been putting together stitch markers like nobody's business. And I'm not the only one, it looks like Catherine has the beading fever too. A couple of people have asked in Comments what I use for the actual marker. They are rubber, but not stretchy. I bought them at my LYS. I found a link at Patternworks.com which shows the markers. Both my bosses just happen to have the same birthday, so I got out the old beads and whipped up a couple of bracelets. ~~~ From the Ally Archives: A favorite pastime.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 6:04:00 PM ----- BODY:

The Wedding - Behind the Scenes: OK, so I said I would share some behind-the-scenes stories about the wedding. Six Hours to Wedding~

• Son needs dress slacks, rush to store and herd him into the fitting rooms. Eeek! That’s dark blue, not black – back to the rack I go.
• The wedding favors need to be completed (about 180) – Done!
• Paper doilies need to be rolled into cone shapes and tied with ribbon. The cones will be filled with rose petals and given to the guests sitting on either side of the aisle in order to throw over the bride and groom after the ceremony. We have no suitable ribbon, "Mom, will you be able to go by the store and pick up some ribbon?" An hour later, Mom hasn’t returned. I call her house, "Hi Mom, where’s the ribbon?" She forgot. Graeme rushes out the pick up ribbon. Cones are finally done.
• Ice tea needs to be made. I have never made ice tea in my life – it can’t be too hard, can it? I fill up pots with water on the stove and line the edges with Lipton Tea bags and start the water to boil. The little paper flags at the end of the tea bag string catch on fire. Graeme laughs – I scream. Finally tea has been made – caterer will have to dilute to taste.
• Lyrics to a song that the guests are to sing during the ceremony have to be written up, formatted (two to a page), nice font and font color (to match the bridesmaid’s dresses) selected and then printed onto linen paper (to match the order of service). Each sheet needs to be cut in half and then inserted into each order of service (230). Think slow ink jet printer. We run out of the special linen paper. Graeme rushes out again and goes to no less than four stores before he finds the correct paper. Programs are finally stuffed.
• I frantically call my oldest brother to go out to the wedding site to make the punch base. It’s not rocket science, just pour all the ingredients (thawed orange juice and lemonade, pineapple juice, etc.) and stir. The frozen rings with maraschino cherries are already done. Brother shows reluctance. In disgust, "never mind, I’ll do it!"

Two Hours to Wedding~

• Graeme and I speed over to the wedding site and begin throwing punch ingredients into a pot. Explain to caterer to pour punch base into punch bowl and then add 7-up to taste. Use sliced oranges and lemons, along with the frozen maraschino cherry rings for decoration. Add sorbet just before service. Ack! We forgot the sorbet in sister’s freezer!
• Graeme and I then rush by sister’s house again to pick up the kids and speed off to motel. I slap makeup on my face, comb my hair. "Kids turn up the AC, I’m having a hot flash." I squeeze into my nylons and dress. Yell at kids to hurry up. "Honey, how do I look?" "You look fine." FINE?! Pout. I wanted to see that "whoa baby" look in his eye.
• Rush back to sister’s house, yell at someone to take sorbet over to wedding site.

One Hour to Wedding~

• Sister informs me that place cards for head table need to be printed on the ivory, not white, place cards. Also, because we couldn’t finish the individual guest list place cards, the table assignments have to be typed up, in fancy font and color (that matches the bridesmaid’s dresses) on the special linen paper.
• Sister insists that fancy photo frames be purchased to hold the table assignment lists.
• Sister and Brother-in-law leave for wedding.
• Sister takes the head table-seating chart to give to the wedding coordinator.

Half-Hour to Wedding~

• I am sitting at computer trying to make the formatting work. Insert ivory place cards into printer (think slow ink jet printer) only to discover I printed on the wrong side. Graeme refuses to wait any longer and, "No, we’re not going to the store to buy fancy frames for the table assignment lists. The wedding starts in ten minutes."

Five minutes to wedding~

• We skid into a parking place. Graeme goes over to find seats for us (back row – groom’s side). I find the wedding coordinator to ask where the head table-seating chart is. We can’t find it.
• Bride and bridesmaids are preparing to walk down the aisle. Wedding coordinator tells me to go look in the garage where her things are. I rush over and frantically search – nothing!

Minus Five Minutes After Wedding Begins~

• I rush back to the ceremony area and sulk around the back. The bride is already down the aisle. I assault the wedding coordinator, "where is that list?!" "Let’s check my car." Nothing!
• We rush back to the pavilion and interrogate the waiters and caterers. Nothing!
• I lay the guest table assignment sheets in the designated area. My sister’s going to kill me because I didn’t get the frames.
• Meanwhile, back at the ceremony, my sister leans over to my daughter and whispers, "Did your mom get the frames?" Daughter replies, "I know nothing." Good girl!
• The head table place cards? I throw them away. I tell the wedding coordinator, "You handle it," and I stomp off to the ceremony.
• I slink into the back row; the ceremony is nearly over.

After a couple of drinks and some venting I begin to relax and enjoy myself.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 5:53:00 PM ----- BODY:

The Wedding - Part 2 Once the ceremony was over, the guests were led to a patio area for drinks and appetizers and then they proceeded on to the pavilion for an elegant sit-down dinner. My niece is half Lebanese (my brother-in-law is from Beirut but has been in the US since the mid-1970's) and she wanted to showcase her Middle Eastern/Mediterranean heritage through the decor, food and music. The tables were draped in rich silks and satins with ornate candlelabras decorated with clusters of (real) grapes. The dinner featured Middle Eastern/ Mediterranean cuisine including Humus, Tabooli, chicken and beef kabobs, Lebanese salad, and wild rice. Here is a photo of the head table. And the cake table. It was certainly a night to remember. We danced the night away and the bridal couple finally left at midnight in a vintage limousine. Here is a photo of my sister (the mother of the bride), Knitti-ME, and my sister-in-law (oldest brother's wife), my sister's two beautiful daughters, and the father-daughter dance. It was truly a storybook wedding. Tomorrow - The Wedding: Behind the Scenes...

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 1:35:00 PM ----- BODY:

The Wedding - Part 1 The wedding was held at a friend of the family’s “estate.” You entered the property, suituated on the King River, along a sweeping driveway through fruit orchards. The area around the house was landscaped with lovely walkways, gazebos and fountains, with wild turkeys and peacocks roaming free. A couple of years ago the owners had a small lake put in with beautiful waterfalls, a bridge arching over the water to a small island and row boats bobbing at the dock. Further along are the tennis courts and a fenced-in playground for small children. The ceremony took place in a grassy area between the house and tennis courts. Chairs for 230 were set up on two sides with rose petals scattered along the isle. Here are my precious grand neice (age 2) and nephew (age 4) as they walked down the aisle. And the proud father with his lovely daughter on his arm. A string quartet was situated off to the side playing beautiful classical music as the wedding party walked down the aisle The ceremony was truly beautiful. The minister gave a heartfelt message before performing the vows and exchange of rings. My other neice, who sings backup for John Tesh (don't laugh), sang The Lord's Prayer a cappella while the bride and groom took communion together. It was truly beautiful in it's simplicity. Here is my sister and brother-in-law flanking the bride and groom.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 3:23:00 PM ----- BODY:

Well we survived the wedding – and it was beautiful. When I arrived home last night, two packages were waiting for me. One package was from my Secret Pal III. Inside was a cute refrigerator magnet and Last-Minute Knitted Gifts; a book filled with wonderfully simple and quick patterns. I had been eyeing this book at Borders – and now it’s mine! Thanks so much SP3, you’re the best! The other package was from Bron and it contained (drum roll please)…The Guenivere’s Bower Bag! Yes! I was the lucky recipient. All of us who frequent Bron’s blog had been watching as this bag evolved. In addition to knitting this cute bag, Bron hand-dyed the yarn, added some decorative beading, and installed a liner and zipper! Thank you Bron for this lovely and thoughtful gift. ~~~ I finished phase 2 of my Secret Pal 2’s final gift. Phase 3 will begin tonight (if it’s dry). I’m anxious to share it with you all, but it’ll have to wait until she is in receipt of it. ~~~ I just found out that the craft boutique I participate in every year is scheduled for December 14th. Last year I made nearly $500. So if my kids want any gifts this year, I need to get to knitting down my stash so I have lots of selection for purchase. As long as this frou frou scarf craze is going on, I’m going to take advantage of it. Then I’ll get down to serious knitting for me and (maybe) my friends and family. ~~~ My home computer is still down. While I can covertly post from work, I am unable to download pics directly from my camera. I was, however, able to email some wedding photos to myself from my sister’s computer, so I do have some of those photos to share with you in my next post. Until then, here's a preview.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 4:34:00 PM ----- BODY:

OK, so my sister is over the top getting ready for this wedding on Saturday. When sis calls, you can literally feel the manic vibes pulsing through the phone line. We were planning to travel down to my sister’s town (about 200 miles) after work tonight and be ready for wedding preparation duty first thing Friday morning. However, the car has been making some interesting noises lately. So I’ll be spending a good part of Friday morning at the mechanics getting about $400 worth of work done - then it’s off to sister’s. Needless to say, she’s freaking out because of our late arrival. In the meantime, I have to rush Ally to the vet to get her shots updated, hunt down her previous owner’s veterinarian and have them fax proof of spaying and go get her duly licensed in Sacramento county. Why the hurry? I came home last night to a nice little citation taped to my front door saying, "We’ve received a complaint that your dog runs the street without being leashed." We are in violation and have to get Ally licensed within three days. The neighbors who complained have about six dogs and a multitude of cats. For the most part they keep their menagerie well contained. Occasionally, they bring the whole pack of dogs out to their gated front yard to run around. I’ll just tell you right here and now, we always leash Ally when we go on walks and take her out for her constitutionals. However, little Miss Ally has a bad habit of shooting past us out the front door if there is anything of interest, like a yard full of dogs. Ally has always had a heart of a lion and feels that she is three hundred pounds of brute strength, "bring it on," she growls. Needless to say, she does not have good relations with others of her breed (after all, she’s a person – right?). So she runs over to the fence and gets the whole pack riled up. The owners come out and start yelling at the dogs (as if it would do any good) and yell at my son that he needs to control our dog. The next day a citation was on our door. When I have a gripe with a neighbor, I go to them first to see if we can resolve the issue. I would never go straight to the authorities – that’s a low blow. Yes, I know, we should have registered Ally months ago (it was always a back burner item), and she does occasionally get past us when we open the front door (but we always chase her down and retrieve her right away); however, I think these guys were way out of line. But I'll comply with the law. ~~~ Knitting: Wedding stole? Nope, nothing, – didn’t finish it – actually it’s ripped. I wasn’t digging it. I’m just going to have to let my "fluffy" arms hang out and hope that everybody will focus on my sexy shoes. I am working on a little something for my Secret Pal II. And I’m working on the endless parade of scarves. ~~~ My home computer died. It contracted a nasty virus. I will be taking it into the service department next week after all this wedding hub bub has died down. So no photos on the blog unless I can get a post or two in while at my sister’s house.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 10:13:00 AM ----- BODY:

My Embarrasingly Large Yarn Stash (ELYS) is full of one-skein wonders. Oftentimes, the yardage isn't enough to make a substantial scarf or hat from one skein. Many times I combined two or more yarns to creat unique fabrics. However, sometimes, I just love the yarn on its own. Here is a scarf I knit from some fabulous thick/thin yarn - Tahki Viva. Of course it turned out to be a short scarf - so what's a girl to do? Add a brooch of course! I've also been doing some more beading (beading, when I should be making progress on my wedding stole...). Look what arrived in the mail...knitti-me tags! Sky photos have been making the rounds of the blogs. Here is blue-sky Northern California.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 11:06:00 AM ----- BODY:

Here are the beaded stitch markers I put togther last week. I like them; simple but pretty. I also went shopping this weekend! I was able to find a "little black dress" ("little" being a relative word) for my niece's upcoming wedding and these sexy shoes... I also started on a stole to wear with the "little black dress." This is knit from some beautiful Berroco Zen that has been simmering in the stash for quite a while. I plan to attach a beaded fringe.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 11:20:00 AM ----- BODY:

I can't afford another obsession...!!!! I innocently walked into The Bead Shoppe yesterday to spend a gift certificate given to me by my friend badcat Karin for my birthday last December. OOOHH Baby, what a playground of creativity and talk about instant gratification—look, braceletts! And here is my dear daughter wearing her bracelette in green to match her eyes. I also made a few stitch markers, but the photo didn't turn out, so will try again tomorrow. ~~~ I have a couple of WIPs - however, how many long rectangles can you stand to see... A fuzzy scarf knit from GGH Fee (the fuzz with slubs of gold metalic thread). Straight garter stitch, but the resulting fabric is very lush. Frou Frou to the MAX hey Bron? And here is a Multidirectional Scarf knit from some fantastic yarn given to me by my Secret Pal 1, Alison of the Blue Blog fame. This a 50% wool-21% Mohair-29% Nylon combo called Diadomina from Diakeito. It is a wonderfully soft yarn with a unique self-striping pattern. Thanks again Alison for introducing me to this great yarn!

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 5:25:00 PM ----- BODY:

I don’t talk about weighty issues much, however… Within the last two weeks I have run into two acquaintances I haven’t seen in years. Both these ladies have opted to have Gastric Bypass Surgery. On the one hand, I was happy to see them slim and healthy, but on the other hand, I was (dare I admit it?) envious and a little intimidated. I felt like a hippo standing beside my friend’s petit size 4 frames. My thoughts and emotions have run the gamut from, "oh, they took the easy way out," to "I wish I could go under the knife." I’m not quite heavy or unhealthy enough to warrant my HMO approving the surgery. I toy with the idea of gaining an additional 50 or 60 pounds to qualify, perhaps develop diabetes or high blood pressure. Or perhaps, taking out a second mortgage on the house and having the surgery done privately. Overall, I am a pretty healthy person; I just have the metabolism of a snail. I hate to exercise and never have achieved an endorphin rush when I did exercise regularly. I know I will come back around to being happy where I’m at - healthy and curvaceous - that is until I run into another friend who had the surgery. I know I could loose 50 or 60 pounds; looks like I’ll have to do it the old fashion way.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 7:47:00 PM ----- BODY:

Here's what I knit for the sock swap with Tifff. I used this pattern by Marnie MacLean. I knit the fingerless mittens with 100% hand-dyed wool from Serendipity in South America. This yarn is so yummy. This pattern is definitely on my "knit-again" list.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 10:34:00 PM ----- BODY:

I've Got Socks! A BIG THANK YOU goes out to Tifff, who did a swap with me for a pair of hand-knit socks. A perfect fit. (Please excuse the pastey white leg peeking out.) I knitted something for Tifff in exchange for the socks, but will refrain from posting a pic until she receives the package. But that's not all, I'm also swapping with Bliss for a pair of socks, so my tootsies will be well-clad this Fall. ~~~ In other knitting news, I 'm working on scarves, shawls, and ponchos. I have a cardi in the works (for me), but for the most part, I'm still in the boutique and gift knitting frenzy. ~~~ From the Ally Archives

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 1:34:00 PM ----- BODY:

Girl's Weekend Out! After work on Friday, I rushed home, threw my daughter and our suitcases in the car and squealed off into the sunset for a three hour trip down to my sister's (and mother's) town. My sister's oldest daughter was going to have her bridal shower the next day to which I was co-host. Sarah and I talked a bit on the way down and then put in the Harry Potter #4 book on tape. Of course on our trip there and back we did not finish the book and my daughter forbade me to listen to the story without her. So we've been listening in 20-minute increments on the way to school each day. We arrived at my mother's house around 9 p.m., hugged and chatted a bit. My mom was packing for her trip to Mexico the next day. She was going with a group from her church to go work at an orphanage down past Ensenada for a week or so. As a result she would be unable to attend my niece's shower. Despite staying up until 2 a.m. making final preparations, the shower was a tremendous success! The rest of the weekend we just flopped and hung out with my sister and her wonderful family, talking and eating, and sampling wine for the wedding. My sister and niece filled me in on many of the details for the wedding (four weeks away). It is going to be quite the grand affair. Sarah and I slept at my mom's house and Sunday morning we just relaxed and read our respective books (her - Harry Potter #5, me - The Plains of Passage from the Earth's Children Series) until Noon. Then we wandered over to my sister's and had lunch and hung out until it was time to head back to Sacramento. My mom is a true child of the depression and has saved everything! In some ways that is good, in others, it is ridiculous. Anyway, while staying at her place I found a few vintage sewing patterns. These patterns got a lot of use in the 60's. I love the stylized artwork. Of course none of these styles would ever work on my curvaceous frame. A little sampling from the 70's. My mom made me the outfit on the right with the suspenders in 5th grade. But my all-time favourites were these two patterns. I begged my mom to sew the long swirl skirt for me. My sister had the outfit on the far right of the right pattern made for her. Unfortunately, I was unable to locate any photos of us wearing our new threads. Was knitting accomplished this weekend? Not really. Besides, I'm working on some top secret projects whose details will be withheld to protect the innocent (well, at least until recipient has taken possession of said secret project).

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 8:08:00 AM ----- BODY:

Lookie, Lookie what arrived in the mail! That's a wonderful gifty from my Secret Pal III. The package included some wool wash, and cute note pad and some fabulous yarn that is to dye for! I LOVE this yarn! Chunky and snuggly and the colors, the colors are so knitti-ME! Thank you SPIII - I am truly blessed. ~~~ From the Ally Archives She looks about how I feel these days. Nap anyone?

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 5:28:00 PM ----- BODY:

Random Thoughts A couple of blogging buddies have graciously taken me up on my offer to knit a pair of socks in exchange for a Knitti-me hand-knitted item - Woo Hoo! ~~ Work has been horrendous, as badcat Karin can attest to. We have both been held hostage in training meetings for three days; meanwhile, back at the desk, the In Box is about to topple over and the voice mail and email systems are about to crash due to unanswered messages. ~~~ My niece is having her bridal shower this weekend (of which I am co-hosting with my other niece - the bride's sister). I have been working on my Colinette-esque throw as a gift, but there is no way I'm going to finish it by Saturday. No money or time to buy a "regular" gift. Too bad I couldn't drape skeins of yarn over a coat tree to produce an Object d'Art for her new home. ~~~ About the Colinette-esque throw ~ Remember I had started it during my vacation in July? Well, I was having the hardest time dealing with the P2tog, three times, YO K1, five times and still getting the correct number stitches in the pattern repeat. Also, purling back across the row, the stitches were awkward... I finally realized that the pattern was wrong - not my knitting technique. I changes to K2tog, three times, YO K1, five times and now it works like a charm. Anyway, I started the whole throw over again. I've finished one whole repeat (out of 3 1/2) and am about half way into the next repeat. Progress pix soon. ~~~ Since, I'm realistically not going to finish the Colinette-esque throw this week, I'm going to knit on something else tonight; nice quick projects. ~~~ Work is overwhelming. Long hours; two steps forward, three steps back; where's this, where's that; will there ever be an end to this madness; is it all worth it? ~~~ Because of the afore-mentioned work madness, blogging will be sporatic at best. I will try to blog at least twice a week. There, now I've said it. ~~~ Nice, quick knit projects - that's the ticket. Instant gratification and a feeling of a job well done - something I don't get from work. ~~~ Husband had to pick up a body of a suicide victim today. She covered herself in lighter fluid and lit herself on fire in the driveway of her home. ~~~ Enough of my whining - I have a lot to be thankful for. Go hug your family today and tell them you love them.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 1:49:00 PM ----- BODY:

Got Socks? Lately I have been obsessing about hand-knit socks, I don't know why - I just seem to have this deep yearning to try some fabulous, one of a kind, hand-knit creations on my feet. But will I knit any? Heck no! That, my friends, is not one of my knitting goals. But I wouldn't be above doing a little wheeling and dealing. Any of you sock knitters out there willing to do a little trading? A couple of scarves or a felted purse for a pair of socks? I would even supply the sock yarn. What do you say? Email or comment if you would like to do a deal.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 8:17:00 AM ----- BODY:

Labours from my Labour Day Weekend First up, just for Bron, a frou frou scarf knit from a Bernat eyelash and some ribbon found in the recesses of my ELYS (Embarrasingly Large Yarn Stash) closet. Wouldn't Rosie the Riveter look stunning in this for a night out with the boys? Next up is Ubernatural from the new issue of Magkits. Actually, I should call it "Third Time's Charm" because it took me frogging twice before I got it right. In essence, I knit a sweater a day for three days! I love the simple neckline and raglan detailing. I placed buttonholes every twelve rows rather than every six rows. I still need to seam the sleeves, weave in ends and attach buttons. The buttons displayed in the photo are ones picked from the button stash. Hopefully, I can find two more buttons at the LYS, otherwise, I'll have to buy a whole new set. This was knit in a fabulous hand-dyed wool from Danette Taylor in her Hip Hop colourway. That's it Ladies and Gents. Now it's back to the Salt Mines for me.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 5:32:00 PM ----- BODY:

Hope everyone had a wonderful holiday (for USA) weekend. We pretty much laid low. I did get a bit of knitting done and have some FO's to show for it, but no photos as yet...soon though. Today I'll leave you with a photo of me and two of my three siblings taken at Hume Lake last week (8/30).

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 7:58:00 PM ----- BODY:

An FO and a Confession~ First the FO: Here is my beautiful niece modeling the Needful Yarns Poncho. This is the second time I've knit this pattern. However, this time instead of knitting the back and front separately, I knitted it in the round. Good choice - the poncho seemed to fly off the needles (especially if you have four hours of uninterrupted knitting in the car). Forgive me, for I have sinned ~ now the confession: Last week as I was competing in the Stash Diving event of the Yarney Olympics, I came up with three skeins of yarn that happened to be the correct weight and gauge for the Needful Yarns Poncho. This particular stash dive happened to be into the yarn bin that had been relegated to the garage because of certain undesirable yarney characteristics. Yes, gentle readers, you can probably guess - this poncho was knit with an unworthy fiber. Red Heart Grande (GASP)! Please don't click away in disgust; I have truly repented. I will go into therapy, I will join the Acrylics Anonymous webring, I will crawl to my snobby local yarn store on my hands and knees and spend $200 for 6 skeins of yarn. Just don't banish me to knit blog oblivion, I beg you.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 12:38:00 PM ----- BODY:

I'm Back! Just a quicky ~ We got back late last night from a fabulous weekend in the mountains. Needless to say, I'm a bit "punchy" as my dad use to say. But I came home to some great mail: A BIG THANK YOU! to my Secret Pal. She sent me the cutest e-card last week and then this arrived over the weekend. Along with a precious card, she sent a Wild Woman pin and some hand balm. Thank you, thank you SP! By the way, both packages I've received from my Secret Pal arrived from two differnt states - sneaky, sneaky. Another surprise came when I opened an envelope addressed to "knitti-me." Wow, I guess I've arrived as a blogger when I start getting mail addressed to my alter-ego (smile). Inside the envelope was a cute card and these darling buttons. Kathleen A. sent them as a thank you for the extra Vogue Knits magazine I mailed her a few weeks back.. Thanks Kathleen!, it wasn't necessary, but certainly appreciated. My next post - an FO and a Confession...

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 5:40:00 PM ----- BODY:

The family and I are embarking on the last hoohaa of the summer. Heading up into the Sierra Nevada mountains near the Big Trees to a recreational area called Hume Lake. We'll be meeting family and having a spur-of-the-moment family reunion. So I'll be back Tuesday, then it's off to Dave Matthews! Of course I'll take my knitting along. Hopefully, I will get some concentrated knitting done in the car (at least until we start up the mountain and nausea begins due to switchbacks and perilous precipices). I'll leave you with a picture of my daughter taken on our vacation last year.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 6:50:00 PM ----- BODY:

Inspired by Smiling Tiger's new scarf (see August 15 post), I reached deep into my stash and brought up some absolutely luscious Pluckyfluff yarn I had purchased about 18 months ago. There was not enough to create a whole project on its own, but paired with another yarn, would make a beautiful accessory; I was just waiting for the right inspiration! I LOVE this scarf and can't wait for the weather to cool down so I can wear it. ~~~ Thanks everybody for the fun comments left regarding The Yarney Olympics. The kids, the husband and I had great fun putting it all together. ~~~ WIPs (that I'm actively working on...we won't even go into those projects, that will not be named, that need my attention...)

• The scarfing machine is still churning albeit a bit slower as knitti-me's interest has turned to...
• Ponchos! I've cast on for a poncho in a chunky yarn. It's the same pattern I used to knit Sarah's poncho; however, instead of knitting it in two pieces, I'm knitting it in the round.
• I've also cast on for a felted bag with some stray Noro Kureyon found in the stash.

~~~

From the Ally Archives

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 3:15:00 PM ----- BODY:

[cue Olympic theme music]

Welcome Ladies and Gentlemen to this broadcast of The Yarny Olympics.

Tonight we'll look at some of the highlights from the games.

In the Opening Ceremonies, Knitti-me had the honor of carrying the Olympic Torch.

Now let's go over to the Yarnautic Center and check in on the Stash Diving Match.

Here we see Knitti-me taking her last dive for Gold.

She makes a clean entrance.

Yes! A perfect Dive. In Weight Lifting news, Daring Dan was able to come from behind to win the the Gold with this final lift. In Fencing, Scooby Sarah and Flyin' Ry went head to head in Needling. Wrestling got quite intense as Knitti-me and Flyin' Ry competed over the coveted skein of yarn. Now over to Track and Field. In the Shot Put, Knitti-me, the favorite coming into this competition makes a disappointing showing. Just inches short of winning the Gold. The high point of the Track and Field events was the 100m Dash to the Yarn Sale event. Knitti-me wins Gold! The final medal Ceremony. Knitti-me wins Gold in the All Around Stash Enhancement, Scooby Sarah Silver, and Flyin' Ry Bronze. This has been the Yarney Olympics 2004. Until next time, good night.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 8:17:00 PM ----- BODY:

It's 100 degrees outside, but I don't care - I'm Scarfing it up! Please ignore the rather haggard face; it's been a long day... This scarf was knit on size 19 needles lengthwise. I cast on 80 stitches or so. I used three yarns: a chunky Lion Brand, a fuzzy GGH Fee with gold slubs, and India ribbon yarn. Here's a close-up of the blue scarf I showed in my last post. Marlo asked in my comments for the pattern. It is knitted lengthwise with a rayon chenille and a ladder novelty yarn, using the knit stitch and the knit drop stitch. I knit this scarf on size 9 circulars, casting on 70 stitches. It's a bit short, but since I'm making these to sell, someone may like a shorter accessory scarf. I made up the pattern and am making another one (longer this time) so I can write up the pattern. And here is the lovely Ally presenting another lengthwise scarf. This one was knit on 9's again with Berrocco Furz and Trendsetter Dune. I cast on about 125 stitches and knit two rows with Furz. I then attached the Dune and knitted two rows. I alternated both yarns every two rows until it was as wide as I wanted, ending with the Furz yarn. Then I fringed. Charr wanted to see a pic of the Color-crap stole. Well, here it is. I'll finish up the fringe and put it up for sale.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 11:35:00 PM ----- BODY:

Secret Pal - You ROCK! A package from my Secret Pal was just what the doctor ordered. You can imagine how thrilled I was to receive this in the mail: That is Bath & Body Works lotion and shower gel in my favorite flavor Plumeria; a fab cosmetics bag that could double as a cute evening purse; a ball of S. Charles Ritratto; and a mug that says, "Girls Who Knit." The card was a hoot. It had symptoms of Obsessive Compulsive Knitting Disorder (OCKD).

• Dinner is usually 1-2 hours late;
• Grocery money is spend on yarn;
• You miss important appointments;
• Dust can be measured with a rain gauge;
• Your kids think the vacuum is a coat rack;
• Your laundry room resembles the Dry Cleaners;
• Knitting becomes more desirable than chocolate;
• You hope that hot flashes will wake you at night for bonus knitting time.

Hee - that sounds just about right.

~~~

Scarf Central:

~~~

From the Ally Archives:

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 10:36:00 AM ----- BODY:

Crap du Jour- I usually try to remain upbeat and positive on my blog and in my life, but today I am just GRUMPY and I just need to vent. I am experiencing a full-blown attack of my monthly nemesis and I feel like crap. I worked for several evenings on a stole and finished it up last night - and it looks like crap. My kids are always arguing and I'm sick of listening to their crap. Ally had an accident and I nearly stepped in her crap. And at work, a caller goes to my boss complaining that she has called several times and has not been able to talk with me - did she leave a message on my voice mail? No! If she did, I would have called her back right away so I could listen to her CRAP! CRAP, CRAP, CRAP... Can you tell I'm ready for the weekend? Yeah, but I have to come in to work on Sunday to finish up a project - CRAP! ~~~ Projects:

• As I mentioned above, I finished a ColorJoy Stole and it looks hideous. I've stuffed it into a bag and crammed it into the dark recesses of my stash closet.
• I finished another scarf. Really pretty, really snuggly (ok, that's positive).
• Got another five scarves on the needles.
• Need to get back to my Simply Autumn Cardi. It's almost finished- really, it is.
• I want to pull out Marta and begin to knit on her again (put shapely on the UFO list).
• I have more stole and poncho ideas but I'm a bit gun shy after the Color-Crap Stole fiasco

I believe some yarn therapy is in order. My LYS just happens to have their Annual Summer Sale starting today – Uh, can I take an early lunch?

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 5:02:00 PM ----- BODY:

Nostalgia The other day I was going through some old files and came across a travel journal I wrote back in 1999 when Graeme and I took the kids to Disneyland. Gabriel was 8 and Sarah 7 years old; just the perfect age where "magic" could still be found in "Magic Kingdom." I’ve reproduced it here. So grab a cup of coffee, draw up a chair and enjoy~

For the first time in nine years, the Edmondson family was able to take the opportunity to enjoy their first paid vacation! Imagine getting paid for having fun! We decided to spend five glorious days at Disneyland—The Happiest Place on Earth. We set out on our adventure with a great deal of anticipation. Amid much, "are we there yets" and "how much longers" we pulled into Anaheim, checked into our hotel, dumped our stuff and trooped over to The Magic Kingdom. We purposely planned our adventure during the off-season (March) and were delighted to discover we could literally walk straight on to every attraction. It was so rewarding to see the wonderment on the kid’s faces as they took in the sights and sounds of Disneyland. In our zeal (and ignorance), the first ride we experienced was the Indiana Jones—Temple of the Forbidden Eye. Talk about sensory overload! Gabriel and Sarah were a bit ashen when they stepped off the ride. I don’t think they could quite process what was going on—what was real and what wasn’t. However, by the end of the trip they were darting on and off the rides enjoying the thrills knowing that it was all "pretend." Graeme and I had the joy of introducing the kids to The Pirates of the Caribbean (which Gabriel pronounced Cari-bean—like beanstalk). While Indiana Jones is a ride of fast-moving thrills and spills, displaying its techno-superiority, Pirates conveys us into the world of swashbuckling buccaneers, which even after 30-some years is not technologically dated. It has a certain atmosphere that encourages us to enter into the fun, especially when those in our boat joint in a rousing chorus of "yo-ho, yo-ho the pirate’s life for me"! We took the kids on It’s a Small World just to say we’d been on it. Gabriel and Sarah both thought the ride was silly; actually Gabriel described it as "dumb," but I did hear Sarah singing along with the animated children. We then sat down to watch a half hour of magic as Disney performed Animazement the Musical. It starred characters from the last several Disney movies (Hercules, Aladdin, Pocahontas, Ariel, Belle, Esmeralda, etc.) singing and dancing into each other’s scenes causing good-natured confusion and fun. Gabriel and Sarah really enjoyed the show and showed their appreciation by heartily applauding the performers. The next morning dawned bright and clear and we headed off to Disneyland to have breakfast with the characters. The kids had a great time chasing down their favorite personalities getting their autographs and taking pictures. We then spent most of the morning and early afternoon exploring the new Tomorrowland. I must say they did a great job of integrating the old with the new. I was happy to discover the line for the Rocket Rods (the updated, fast-track version of The People Mover) wound through the old circular theater where they showed films on the evolution of the automobile. We also experienced, "Honey, I Shrunk the Audience!" a zany 3-D show with great special effects. The rest of the day was spent racing from one land to the next; the wacky adventures in Toontown, the thrill of the old west in Frontierland, the sense of discovery in Adventureland, and the reliving of the classics in Fantasyland.

That evening we lined up along Main Street in anticipation of The Mulan Parade. We were not disappointed. The costumes and pageantry were stunning. Gabriel and Sarah watch captivated by the spectacular procession. After the parade we headed off to Critter Country and embarked on a voyage through Splash Mountain. For those of you who don’t know, Splash Mountain is a glorified log ride. We floated through hidden grottos where animated characters played and sang. On the last big dive, a hidden camera took our picture. We were rewarded with a souvenir photograph of the four of us plunging to our deaths with looks of terror etched on our faces. The following day, the boys and girls split up. Gabriel and Graeme went exploring and Sarah and I went shopping. The kids had been saving their money and thought Disneyland was a good place to spend it. We rendezvoused with the boys that afternoon and headed back to the hotel. Graeme and the kids took a dip in the pool (which was heated and rather like swimming in a bathtub) while I took a nap. We went back to the park that evening and the kids discovered Autopia (little motor cars that zoom around on their own little highways). This attraction must be about 25 years old with the engins belching gaseous fumes, but the kids didn’t mind. I can remember being about nine or ten discovering the Autopia for myself and how grown-up and independent it made me feel driving my own vehicle. And it was no different for Gabriel and Sarah. We went on a few more rides, but it seemed that all the activity, late nights and excitement was finally catching up with us. Instead of closing the place down, we proceeded back to the hotel. The following day, I took it easy and sent Graeme and kids off to play. It was wonderful to get some "alone time." That afternoon, Graeme took some time for himself, while I watched the kids frolic in the pool. The next day we woke up to a deluge of rain; but we were not to be deterred! We packed up our stuff, checked out of the hotel and headed off to enjoy our last day in The Magic Kingdom. The kids were attired in official Disneyland rain ponchos and had a blast splashing through the puddles while mom and dad dashed from doorways to awnings to escape the rain. We spent our last few hours riding our favorite rides and doing some shopping. We said our good-byes to The Magic Kingdom and headed for home. I must admit we were a bit burned out on Disneyland, but we had a great time playing. It was rewarding to hear the kids talking as we drove home, "remember when…" We certainly made a lot of good memories, which we will cherish forever."

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 2:22:00 PM ----- BODY:

Once I got my digital camera last Christmas, I have felt compelled to grace each post with photos. Alas, none of my WIPs are photo-worthy at the moment, but many of them are very close to done. I have been a knitting honey bee flitting from project to project. I have about four scarves on needles right now, along with two shawls, and the AB FAB. I am in major scarf/shawl production. I've been doing laps around my stash and have so many ideas for yarn combinations for scarves that I can hardly keep my attention on any one project. I guess once I run out of needles, I'll have to start finishing up the scarves. I was able to sit down and finish a little something for my Secret Pal, which I will mail out tomorrow. Speaking of Secret Pals, I still haven't heard from mine...hello...are you out there?

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 5:50:00 PM ----- BODY:

Hey There Secret Pal! According to our Fearless Leader's newsy email, you need to know a little about me. I'm sure you can glean a wealth of information from my archives, but here are a few more tidbits. 1. Are you a yarn snob? Unfortunately for my pocketbook, YES! I have a fetish for Colinette, I love unusual novelty yarns, love Manos Del Uruguay, love Noro, Lamb's Pride for felting, handpainted fibers (Katsara, Danette Taylor,Lotusblossom Serendipity in So. America). Prefer wool to cotton. Acrylic OK if it comes in the form of the aformentioned novelty yarn. 2. Do you spin? Crochet? No spinning, except perhaps in a mountain field of wildflowers at midnight under a full moon. Crochet-YES! 3. Do you have any allergies? (smoke, pets, fibers, perfume, etc.) I am sensitive to perfumes and am unable to wear any except Musk. I can handle scented lotions as long as they are not too overpowering. No other allergies, other than seasonal, that I know of. 4. How long have you been knitting? During my honeymoon 19 years ago, my mother-in-law taught me the craft. I made one vest and then put down the knitting needles for about 17 years. I took up crocheting again about five years ago and then about two years ago, I decided to give knitting a try again. Bee to honey, I tell you - I love knitting and really haven't seriously looked at a crochet hook since (although I am finding myself drawn to some crochet recently). But knitting is really my craft of choice. 5. Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list? No, not yet - should I? 6. What's your favorite scent? (for candles, bath products etc.) I love Partylite candles. Some of my favorite scents are Honeydew, Pear, Cinnamon, and Vanilla. Bath & Body Works is a favorite too. I love their Plumeria scent and their citrus scents too. 7. Do you have a sweet tooth? Not really, but Shari's Berries are always a treat. 8. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do? Crochet, I've done scrapbooking in the past too. I've delved in beading a bit and would like to get more involved in that. I also collect 1930's Metlox Pottery (similar to Fiesta Ware). With enough time and money, I would love to redectorate my home with quality materials. 9. What kind of music do you like? I like all kinds from Classical (not the intense stuff) to Gershwin. I love classic jazz vocals like Ella Fitzgerald , and instrumental jazz- not "smooth" jazz (it puts me asleep), but not the intense "progressive" jazz either. I like alternative rock and the Blues baby. I'm a child of the 70's and 80's so classics from both those eras are enjoyed too. 10. What's your favorite color? Or--do you have a color family/season/palette you prefer? I love autumnal colors - reds, browns, burgundies, oranges, greens - deep and rich. Oh, and I like purple - jewel tones. 11. What is your family situation? Do you have any pets? I am married (19 years), have two kids (son 13 years, daughter 12 years), one dog (Ally), one cat (Tasha), one rabbit (Molly), one hamster (Ron), and three lizards (Geiko, Kammie, and Kevin). 12. What are your life dreams? I may have to get back to you on that. I've been working on 100 things I want to do before I die...

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 5:35:00 PM ----- BODY:

It's started! Woo Hoo! I returned from vacation, checked my email and found out who my Secret Pal 2 recipient was. I so enjoyed the first Secret Pal go around, that I just had to sign up for #2. I'm off to my LYS to see what fibery goodies I can send her. ~~~ Not much serious knitting going on. I haven't even touch any of my WIPs since returning from vacation. I've been playing around swatching with novelties from my Embarrassing Large Yarn Stash, but I haven't found a pleasing combo of yarns for scarves yet. Yes, it's that time of year again when the scarf machine starts churning. I have to begin laying in stock of upcoming craft boutiques and gifties. ~~~ From the Ally Archives

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 8:35:00 PM ----- BODY:

I'm Back! It was a wonderful week of doing nothing! We rented a cabin in the California Gold Country about an hour from our home in Sacramento. I found it ironic that the "cabin" we rented was larger and nicer than our own home. We were a couple of blocks from the Consumnes River so we spent many lazy hours sunning, swimming and exploring. The "cabin" was equiped with a game room filled with video games, air hockey, fooze ball, Nintendo and a pletora of board games - just the ticket for the kids. The cabin also housed a HUGE video and book library. So the evenings were filled with gaming and videos. And don't forget the hot tub... My kids discovered the joy of reading during this vacation. I was amazed. I have always been an avid reader, but G and S were never too interested despite the fact that I always have my nose in a book and reading to them quite a bit as younger children. My daughter especially stayed up til 2 or 3 in the morning finishing her novel and wonder of wonders, I discovered my son in his room reading his book while the Game Cube sat inactive in the living room (gasp!). I have been working my way through Jean Auel's "Earth's Children" series and had brough along the second volume, The Valley of Horses. I finished that and was at a loss, but then I was inexplicably drawn to a specific book case in the cabin and there it was - volume three - The Mammoth Hunters! How serendipitous! I literally did not look at a clock for days. We ate when we were hungry, slept when we were sleepy. Surprisingly, I did not do as much knitting as I had anticipated; I was too taken up with the Jane Auel books. When I did knit, I worked exclusively on the Colinette-esque Ab Fab. Here is a photo of nearly one full pattern repeat. The pattern calls for three full repeats and one half repeat. On our way back home, I stopped by Lofty Lou's for a little fiber therapy. I bought a wonderful novelty yarn (can't find the band at the moment-sorry) and made this fun drop-stitch scarf. I love the texture of the yarn with the ribbon and spirals. Drum roll please... Rebecca, the winner of the Della Street Cafe Contest will be receiving two skeins of Noro Kureyon in color #102. Congratulations Rebecca!

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 9:33:00 PM ----- BODY:

On Vacation - Almost... Here it is 9:30 at night and I've come into work, to finish up a project or two, while husband and the kids are at the movies. I brought Ally with me and she is curled up at my feet, that is after she manically ran around the office, doing the "Indy." However, I've taken a few moments to cruise around my favorite blogs one last time and to post here. Last night I had a fun time picking out yarns for my almost Colinette Ab Fab Throw. I chose yarns in rich jewel tones. The majority of the yarns are Colinette, but I've also thrown in some Berroco and Noro. Of course I couldn't resist casting on. Here's a pic of the first few rows ~   I'm loving it! And here is the progress on the Simply Autumn Cardi ~  

That's the back and left front.

I have my my project suitcase nearly packed and it includes:

• The Almost Colinette Ab Fab Throw
• The Simply Autumn Cardi
• The Flower Power Crocheted Poncho
• The Phil Onde Tank
• The Shapely T

Sometime during my vacation week, I'm going to head over to Lofty Lou's for some fiber delight.

Take care my fiber friends. See you in a week.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 10:11:00 AM ----- BODY:

Betsy Update~ Thank you all so much for your heartfelt greetings on behalf of Betsy. I and my family truly appreciate it. Alas, Betsy is still missing. I spent quite a bit of time last night searching, pointing my husband's high-powered flashlight into all sorts of nooks and crannies. I've seen my husband out several times beating bushes and calling her name. Neighborhood interrogations, I mean  interviews, will commence tonight. ~~~ As many of you can attest to, knitting is a form of therapy. During this trouble time, I have used knitting to calm my anxious thoughts. Knitting Progress:

• Simply Autumn Cardigan: She is shaping up nicely. I have finished the back and the left front. I cast on for the right front last night. I have found some blatant errors in the pattern, but was able to reason them out (another sign of my growing knitting maturity). Just hope I can adjust it for the right side when the pattern says, "knit as for left side, reversing shaping."
• Phil Onde Tank: This is just a straight stockingnette, but with the gradations of color, it is fun to watch the tank grow. I started out on bamboo needles, but with the cotton content of the Onde, the knitting was squeeky and sticky (if you know what I mean). I had to make a quick trip to the LSY and pick up a pair of Addi's and the knitting is zipping along just fine now.
• Fuzzy White & Turquois Scarf: I have ripped this baby out three times because I wasn't liking it. I ended up holding both yarns together and knitted until I ran out of the turquois yarn. It turned out OK, but I want to put a lush fringe on the scarf that will really class it up. Looks like another trip to the LYS might be in order.

I will be on vacation next week and, unlike Nicaragua (surprisingly), I will be computer-less. So no blogging and no reading of blogs. I know I will miss you guys! Before leaving, I'm going to dive into my Embarrasingly Large Yarn Stash and begin to pick out yarns for my Colinette-esque Ab Fab throw.

I will try to post this weekend before taking off on Sunday for a week of R & R - Waa Hoo!

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 11:09:00 AM ----- BODY:

Worried~       This is Betsy. She's been with us a long time. Betsy was born in our linen closet 17 years ago this month. Betsy is missing. Because I'm not wanting to display more than quiet concern over her disappearance to my children, I am expressing my anguish and panic to you, my faithful blog friends.  Betsy has understandably slowed down in the last few years, but has always been there to greet us each morning. During the cooler months she would take up residence in our bedroom, making a nest in the down comforter. She would come out to the living room in the evenings and sit on daddy's knee. As the weather warmed up, she would move outside and take up residence in our yard, never venturing far from the front door. This year she staked out a spot by our front walk in the shadow of the eaves. She's not there now and hasn't been for about three days. I've heard that some animals go off to die in solitude; like they can sense the end is near. We've been walking the perimeter of the yards, shaking bushes, checking out the garage to no avail. Please keep Betsy in your thoughts and prayers. I know she is just an animal, and this crisis pales against life and death issues many of you face. But Betsy has been part of our family for many years and is dearly loved.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 7:44:00 AM ----- BODY:

Not One, but Two FO's!   Presenting the Wave/Shell Stole. I originally had started it oh, about nine months ago as part of Rachael's Wave/Shell Knit-a-long. Well, better late than never, I say.     I knitted the stole from Twinkletoes wool yarn hand-painted by the talented Maryann of Over the Rainbow Yarns. The knitted fabric whisper soft and lacy. I LOVE it!   Click to see a close-up of the pattern stitch: Wave-Shell Stole 008.jpg   And here is my second FO. The Cape Bohemia from See Jane Knit. I've knit this pattern once before and really find the pattern fun, easy to follow and a quick knit (that is if you don't run out of yarn six rows from finishing). I used Trendsetter Dune (color 76) for this poncho. It took approximately 3 and 1/3 balls of yarn.     Click for a close up of the texture and stitch detail on the eyelet round: Cape Bohemia closeup 003.jpg From the Ally Archives~     

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Special of the Day Thanks to all who submitted menu items for the Della Street Café Contest! Rebecca came up with some wonderful plays on the names of the actors and characters from the series:

• The Raymond Burr-ito
• The Ray "Tom" Collins (special drink of the house)
• The William Talman-wich Sloppy Joe
• The Connie Cezon Salad
• The Sergeant Brice Cream Sundae

Pamela offered a bit of European flair with her:

• Poire au Perry

Lisa in Oregon had a great time coming up with dishes taken from the series episodes:

• The Fugitive Fraulien Fries— fries with chili, cheese, and sauerkraut (based on Episode 253)
• The Larcenous Ladyfinger Trifle (based on Episode 107)
• The Sausalito Sunrise Omelet (based on Episode 260)
• The Torrid Tapestry Tarts (based on Episode 118)
• The Golden Orange Cheesecake—with a grand marinade sauce (based on Episode 173)
• The Greek Goddess Wraps (based on Episode 178)

But my favorite submission from Rebecca and the winner of the Della Street Café Contest is:

The Barbara Hale ‘n’ Hearty Chicken Soup

Rebecca will be receiving some yarny goodness from the Embarrassingly Large Yarn Stash, of which I will post about once the selection has been made.

You guys are Raymond Burr-illiant!

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A Great Mail Day! I received fibery blessings from all over yesterday. While at work I spied the receptionist making his way down the hallway with a box from the Threadbear Boys. Inside were three Phil Onde skeins in Chlorophyl to make a summery tank for my daughter. Also inside was enough Manos del Uruguay to make the Meza Luna felt bag. Another envelope was delivered to my office containing two Colinette pattern books, Art to Wear and Scarves. Once arriving home I was happy to see that my Fall 2004 Interweave Knits magazine had arrived. I espcially liked the Sideways Spencer and the Flower Basket Shawl. ~~~ Monday afternoon my husband called me at the office to say that a box had arrived for me and I could pick it up at the post office after 9:00 a.m. the next day. That could only mean the Beta Box of the Snob Stash Redistribution Program had landed! Woo Hoo! So on my way to work Tuesday, I swung by the PO to take delivery of the box. I had only been at work 3 hours when I couldn't stand it any longer and stealthfully made my way down to the parking lot to have a peek. Whoa baby! What a haul! I had a fun time fondling all the fabulous yarn last night - and not a Red Heart to be seen! This is what I put in: That's 8 skeins of Berrocco Zen in Midori Green (enough to knit this wonderful Berrocco Pattern, Lucy Lu); 7 skeins of Lamb's Pride Bulky wool in Burt's Blush; 1 skein of Colinette's DK wook in Emerald; 1 skein of Reynold's Lopi in Natural; 5 skeins of Ironstone Yarns Island Cotton in wine with a Flyaway Free Jacket pattern from Just One More Row; and 1 skein of Lorna's Lace Shepherd's Sock in color 502 Sassy Stripe. Not shown: 1 skein Berroco Furz in brown and 1 ball Trendsetter Charming; and Vogue Knitting on the Go - Teen Knits pattern book. This is what I took out: That's 5 skeins of Colinette Isis in the Monet colorway; 1 skein of Great Adirondack Rayon Chenille and 1 skein Eros for a cool novelty scarf; 1 skein Charisma wool; and 13 skeins of K2 Sesia. ~~~ Don't forget to submit your menu items for the Della Street Cafe Contest (see July 8th post).

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Hitchhickers, Mom, and Maturity

You're The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy!
by Douglas Adams
Considered by many to be one of the funniest people around, you are quite an entertainer. You've also traveled to the far reaches of what you deem possible, often confused and unsure of yourself. Life continues to jostle you around like a marble, but it's shown you so much of the world that you don't care. Wacky adventures continue to lie ahead. Your favorite number is 42.
Take the Book Quiz at the Blue Pyramid.

~~~ Despite having to get my kids ready for departure for a week at summer camp, I was able to sneak in some knitting time between doing loads of laundry, packing bags and making frantic trips to Wal-Mart for last minute purchases of mosquito repellent, sun screen, undies, and flashlights. In the middle of it all, my Mom blew into town on her way back from Wyoming in her RV. I love my mother; however, she is not he easiest person to be around (i.e., I can't relax or be myself around her). Of course she comes in to the "house of chaos," and offers to stay a few days to "help out" (read: to criticize me for my bad housekeeping abilities and take liberties to poke around in my personal business while I'm helplessly stuck at work!). Thankfully, my husband was able to talk her out of it and I was given a reprieve. WIP's * Wave/Shell Stole: I've made good progress; however, I added a new skein without realizing it was another dyelot and had to tink back 15 rows, of lace I might add, and attach the correct dyelotted yarn. Through this trial, however, I was happy to realize I had matured as a knitter. This time last year had I come upon a problem such as this I would have either a) kept on knitting with the darker dyelot and ended up hating the project, or b) frogging the whole thing (nearly 4 feet of lace!). But now I just threaded a lifeline through a row just below the join, probably about 18 rows, and ripped back being careful to note what pattern row I was on. Not a problem! * Fuzzy white and turquoise scarf: Despite the chaos of the weekend, I was able to find my other knitting needle and will try to finish this scarf up in the next day or so and start the matching hat. * Flower Power Poncho: in stasis somewhere in the third row. * Natashia's Poncho: Still waiting for the Trendsetter Dune to be delivered. * Shapely T: Let's not even talk about her. * A new project! I had "start-itis" this weekend inspired by this yarn I purchased off ebay. . After swatching (yes, I now swatch - another sign of knitting maturity), I decided to knit the Simply Copper Cardigan from the Little Box of Sweaters . ~~~ From the Ally Archives~ She's thinking, "would you please get that camera out of my face?!"

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I have always been a huge fan of vintage TV. The Andy Griffith Show, The Dick Van Dyke Show, I Love Lucy, and of course, The Twilight Zone were all favorites of mine. But I must admit that one of my all-time favorites was Perry Mason. From the fabulous theme music to wondering if Della and Perry ever got it on, this series was always a winner with me. I found the following synopsis from this Perry Mason website pretty much sums up the series, which ran nearly 10 years. "Perry Mason was created by author Erle Stanley Gardner in the 1930's. In 1957 Perry Mason was brought to television on CBS...There were 271 episodes in all running from 1957-1966. All but one episode was in black and white. The first few minutes of the show are used to introduce the characters and for the murder to take place. Next, Perry would end up defending whom ever was charged with the murder. He would get Paul Drake (his P.I.) in on the case to help him find the real murderer. Then the show would move to the courtroom, usually with Hamilton Burger as the D.A. In the court room Perry got most confessions, usually right on the witness stand. For the final scene Perry, Della and Paul would usually gather in Perry's office or a restaurant and explain how they figured it out, and end with some kind of joke." In my late teens I had a dream of starting up a themed restaurant called The Della Street Cafe where "Justice Desserts" would be served. Of course the menu would include "The Hamilton Burger" and "Della Sandwiches" and the "Paul-etto" and Drake-ona" Cocktails would be a specialty. Of course, any meal would be incomplete without the "Erle Stanley Gardner Salad." CONTEST! Help me develop more menu items by utilizing characters, locations, situations, etc. found in the original TV series. The winner will receive yarn from my embarrassingly large stash. Main characters included: Perry Mason, Della Street, Paul Drake, Lt. Tragg, and Hamilton Burger. Also, feel free to click around the various websites dedicated to the Perry Mason TV series. Email me with your submissions by July 15th. The winner will be announced on July 16th. You gotta love them!

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UPDATE: I was able to purchase a skein off good ol' ebay. It's winging its way to me as I blog. If anybody still wants to do a trade - I'm game. You've seen my embarrassingly large yarn stash - just ask and you may just receive. ~~~ Curses! I just received an email from yarnware.com saying they are out of that particular color of Trendseter Dune. Does anybody have an extra skein of Trendsetter Dune in color 76 (Black-Grey-Camel-White) for sale or trade? Please contact me if you want to deal marieedmondson at yahoo dot com. In the meantime, I'll click around to see if I can locate it elsewhere.

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Wow! Nearly a week since I last posted. We had a really enjoyable 4th of July weekend. Friday night we took in Spiderman 2, which was thoroughly enjoyed by the whole family. Good character development and great action scenes. I thought it was a well-rounded movie. Saturday I had to go into the office for about six hours (yuck), but I needed to get ahead on a couple of projects. Let's see, I'm about 26-28 years from retirement (heavy sigh). Sunday, after church, lunch out with friends, and my 4th of July celebration nap, we started getting ready for a block party. My daughter and her friend from across the street had been begging us parents for about a week to put together a party. So about 7 p.m. we rolled our bar-b-que over to the cul-de-sac and about six families showed up bringing picnic fare. I am ashamed to admit that I was very relunctant to get this party going, but I am so thankful that my daughter insisted because WE HAD A GREAT TIME! Monday we spent the day at the UC Davis Rec Pool. Here I am, or a reasonable facsimilie of me - HA! - floating around on our new floatation device. ~~~ I had a couple of knitting "NOOOOOOOOOO's" this weekend. The first was when I ran out of yarn for the Cape Bohemia 2 (photo wasn't worth posting; it looked like a yarn blob - kind of like me on the "flotation device" hehe. The LYS didn't have the correct color of Trendsetter Dune, so I had to order one more skein on-line. The second was when I couldn't find my other knitting needle for the fuzzy white and turquoise scarf (it's still MIA). I did bring my Wave/Shell Stole out of mothballs and was able to pick up the pattern with no problem. My stash is made up of many one- or two-skein wonders so I am wanting to pull together yarns to make a Colinette-esque throw similar to this: The Colinette formula is usually 3 different colors of mohair, 1 smooth aran wool, 1 cotton tape, 1 cotton chenille, and 2 different colors of a twisted chuncky wool = 8 different yarns. This should be a fun project, but I think I will bring my husband in on this when picking out the yarn as he has a great eye for color and texture.

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I can't believe it (well, maybe I can), I just lost my post - curses! Anyway, here goes again... After 24 years in the working world I finally have my very own office. Not that I deserve it, but it sure is nice to have four walls AND A DOOR! I also have a view. See? That's looking south across the Sacramento Valley. I love seeing all the trees; it's very calming. I also got my hair done yesterday. Here is a "day after" photo. Of course, I couldn't get it styled quite the same as my stylist (she's the professional after all), but I wanted to show you the color. I had her do a deep auburn this time and I really like it. It's just a pity red tones fade so quickly. ~~~ Knitting? What Knitting? I have not had any concentrated knitting or crocheting time in days. I am really feeling strung out without my fiber fix. But here's a recap of my WIPs: * Shapely T (still need motivational vibes sent my way); * Flower Power Poncho (still working on getting gauge); * White and turquoise fuzzy scarf (I will be knitting a matching hat too); * Another Cape Bohemia in Trendsetter's Dune (love this yarn, love this pattern) I placed an order with the Treadbear boys, amid must controversy. We'll see if they come through. I ordered some Phil Onde in Chrorophyl green to knit my daughter a tank and some Manos del Uruguay to knit the Meza Luna bag. I'm also itching to start a cardi or pullover for myself. I know it's 95+ degrees outside, but after going through my stash last week, I now know I have enough yarn for a sweater or two, perhaps three. Most of my yarn are one-skein wonders, so I usually don't have enough of one kind of yarn to make much of anything besides scarves and hats. However, with my scrap-happy experience, I could whip up some "designer" ponchos and Colinette-esque throws and shawls. ~~~ From the Ally Archives

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 5:39:00 PM ----- BODY:

Blush~ Thanks for the compliments on the Scrappy Poncho. Lisa in Oregon wanted to know if I used a pattern or just "whipped it up." I pretty much just knitted by the seat of my pants. Aren't you proud of me Bron? With size 11 needles I cast on 70 stitches and knit until it was wide enough and then I knit a second matching panel and seamed them together. ~~~ Warning: if you suffer from skein envy, click away. This girl ain't going to apologize for her stash. What's behind this unassuming hall closet door? (In desperate need of a paint job, I might add.) My Stash! That is eight bins stuffed full of yarny delight. The four bins on the left consist of my Colinette acquisitions and hand-painted yarns from some of my favorite fiber artists such as Danette Taylor, Lotus Blossom, and Katsara. On the right are all the my other yarns that don't fit into the Colinette/hand-painted fiber artist category. There are a lot of novelty yarns, cotton, wool yarn for felting projects, etc. I have to admit, that I also have two large plastic tubs in the garage with acrylic yarn as well as a couple of large garbage bags of yarn my neighbor gave me (which I have to go through). Looking further down the hallway is a bookcase filled with my knitting books, crafting magazines, patterns, etc. and bins filled with knitting/crocheting/sewing notions. And next to my collection of straight needles, for your reading pleasure, is KnitLit and my little book of knitting trivia. ~~~ From the Ally Archives The Gnomes, too engrossed in their Checkers game, were unaware that behind them the dread Ally-doo had returned to exact vengeance.

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It's the Bluesy Scrappy Poncho! Here I am doing the "Rachael" pose. I have really enjoyed the Scrap-a-Long. I still have a bag full of scraps, but I may put them away for awhile. Thanks Larissa for hosting this fun and inventive "a-long." ~~~ WIP's Here are a couple of works-in-progress. This is the first row of the crochet Flower Power Poncho. I originally started the poncho in Brushstrokes Cotton, but I found the thick/thin quality of the yarn not very conducive to this pattern. So I took a trip to my LYS and found a nice chunky cotton; Classic Elite Yarn's Rockland Cotton in a rich teal. And here is a fun scarf knit from one skein of Crystal Palace Splash and one skein of Muench Yarn's Cleo. ~~~ From the Ally Archives- Here she is sporting her summer "pixie" cut.

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Just Because... A - Age: 39 B - Band listening to right now: B52's, "Love Shack" C - Career future: Insurance Underwriter or Broker? D - Dad's name: Ralph E - Easiest person to talk to: I don't know. F - Favorite song: "Jesus Blood Never Fails" by Delirious G - Gummy Bears or Gummy Worms: Sour Gummy Worms if that was the only choice. H - Hometown: San Francisco, California. I - Instruments: Have, at some point in my life, played the guitar and piano abysmally. Now I just sing or play the radio. J - Job: Account Manager for Life Insurance K - Kids: 1 boy, 1 girl. L - Longest car ride ever: My trip to the looney bin. M - Mom's name: Sarah Thedaev N - Number of people you slept with: I'm not saying. P - Phobia[s]: standing in the deep end of an empty pool freaks me out. Q - Quote: Today it's "Damned if you do, damned if you don't." R - Reason to smile: It's a beautiful day today. S - Song you sang last: "My Glorious" by Delirious T - Time you wake up: 7:00 a.m. U - Unknown fact about me: I can do the Vulcan "live long and prosper" symbol with my toes. V - Vegetable you hate: Cooked carrots. W - Worst habit: avoidance. X - X-rays you've had: dental. Y - Yummy food: YES! give me more.... Z - Zodiac sign: Not a follower of astrology, but I'm a December baby. ~~~ Knitting * I finished the Bluesy Scrappy Poncho. Photos soon. * Shapely T is still stalled (send motivational vibes my way...please!) * More scrap-a-long projects? Perhaps a hat or two. * I really want a project I can sink my teeth into...hummm... ~~~ From the Ally Archives

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 4:28:00 PM ----- BODY:

Via JenLa ~ another Quizilla.
Fun and spunky, you link, there for you are! This
is all fun and games, and you do what you
damned well please!

What kind of blogger am I?
brought to you by Quizilla Can I hear and big WOO HOO???!!! ~~~ From the Ally Archives This was taken when she auditioned for a part in the horror flick The Ring.

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Happy Father's Day! My father in India 1943.

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What do you get when you mix a night out at a Rivercats game and a bag of yarn scraps? A Scrappy Poncho! I had my daughter reach into the bag without looking and draw out the next yarn, thus the Bluesy Scrappy Poncho evolved. ~~~ I joined an another "a-long," but this one is a Crochet-a-Long! The Flower Power Crochet-a-Long is being hosted by Vera and we're crocheting this fabulous poncho. You can buy the pattern here. I'm making mine out of Brushstrokes Cotton. ~~~ From the Ally Archives

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Work has been extremely intesnse lately and having just got off an especially difficult phone call, I blurted out, "I really need some fiber therapy!" My co-worker shouts back, "You know Marie, that's a little too much information!" You see, she was thinking And I was thinking ~~~ I got this fun link from Erica at Smiling Tiger. I think that's a pretty good knitti-me as anime. Unfortunately, they didn't have knitting needles as an option, so I had to go with Diet Coke instead.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 10:57:00 AM ----- BODY:

Thanks to all for your kind comments on Scrappy Stole. I had a lot of fun putting that one together. I'm now working on a Bluesy Scrappy Poncho. Because I'm making this poncho for a friend, I'm finding myself to be a bit more anal in my scrap choices and I'm obsessing more; which makes the process less fun. Maybe the "Scrappy Virginal Marie" just needs to throw off her mantle of constraint and flow with it, Baby! From the Ally Archives Just in time for Summer! Taken on our vacation last year.

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Scrappy Happy Is I! My first Scrap-a-long project is complete! Yes, there will be others; I have lots and lots of scraps. And here is the Scrappy Stole Of course there are many uses for a stole. A la Kerstin's June 2nd post, here are some of my favorites. The Scrappy Virgin Marie The Scrappy Burka The Scrappy Sash And, of course, Scrappy Ally Come on, join the Scrap-a-Long! Contact Larissa over at Stitch Marker to sign up.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 5:16:00 PM ----- BODY:

I lifted this list from J Strizzy. Copy this list of literature classics (or at least relatively agreed-upon canon, regardless of how one defines a "classic"), and embolden the ones you've read. Seeing the movie doesn't count! I've read twenty-six, one-quarter of the books listed. Of course this list doesn't record the number of time each book has been read. I had a literature teacher who once told me, "It's not the number of books you read that count, but the number of times you read the book." Coincidentally, I just finished reading Wuthering Heights last night. This must have been my third or fourth time through over the last 30 years (Boy, I'm getting old!). I began actively consuming books at the age of 10. It took a while for the passion to catch on; I have friends that were reading Homer in first grade (perhaps a gross exaggeration, but you know what I mean). But once it caught I devoured books from Nancy Drew to Le Carre to Dickens to T.H. White and Austen. My father and I used to spend hours at the library and trade books back and forth. He really instilled in me a love of the written word. My father never went to college. Straight out of high school he enrolled in the Merchant Marines Officer Training Academy in Alameda California and then went straight into service during WWII and then on to a 50-year career as a merchant seaman (chief engineer). Needless to say, liberal arts weren't part of the curriculum at the academy at that time (1940). My father was the type to read War & Peace because he wanted to (I still need to tackle that one). Beowulf Achebe, Chinua - Things Fall Apart Agee, James - A Death in the Family Austen, Jane - Pride and Prejudice Baldwin, James - Go Tell It on the Mountain Beckett, Samuel - Waiting for Godot Bellow, Saul - The Adventures of Augie March Brontë, Charlotte - Jane Eyre Brontë, Emily - Wuthering Heights Camus, Albert - The Stranger Cather, Willa - Death Comes for the Archbishop Chaucer, Geoffrey - The Canterbury Tales Chekhov, Anton - The Cherry Orchard Chopin, Kate - The Awakening Conrad, Joseph - Heart of Darkness Cooper, James Fenimore - The Last of the Mohicans Crane, Stephen - The Red Badge of Courage Dante - Inferno de Cervantes, Miguel - Don Quixote Defoe, Daniel - Robinson Crusoe Dickens, Charles - A Tale of Two Cities Dostoyevsky, Fyodor - Crime and Punishment Douglass, Frederick - Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass Dreiser, Theodore - An American Tragedy Dumas, Alexandre - The Three Musketeers Eliot, George - The Mill on the Floss Ellison, Ralph - Invisible Man Emerson, Ralph Waldo - Selected Essays Faulkner, William - As I Lay Dying Faulkner, William - The Sound and the Fury Fielding, Henry - Tom Jones Fitzgerald, F. Scott - The Great Gatsby Flaubert, Gustave - Madame Bovary Ford, Ford Madox - The Good Soldier Goethe, Johann Wolfgang von - Faust Golding, William - Lord of the Flies Hardy, Thomas - Tess of the d'Urbervilles Hawthorne, Nathaniel - The Scarlet Letter Heller, Joseph - Catch 22 Hemingway, Ernest - A Farewell to Arms Homer - The Iliad Homer - The Odyssey Hugo, Victor - The Hunchback of Notre Dame Hurston, Zora Neale - Their Eyes Were Watching God Huxley, Aldous - Brave New World Ibsen, Henrik - A Doll's House James, Henry - The Portrait of a Lady James, Henry - The Turn of the Screw Joyce, James - A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man Kafka, Franz - The Metamorphosis Kingston, Maxine Hong - The Woman Warrior Lee, Harper - To Kill a Mockingbird Lewis, Sinclair - Babbitt London, Jack - The Call of the Wild Mann, Thomas - The Magic Mountain Marquez, Gabriel García - One Hundred Years of Solitude Melville, Herman - Bartleby the Scrivener Melville, Herman - Moby Dick Miller, Arthur - The Crucible Morrison, Toni - Beloved O'Connor, Flannery - A Good Man is Hard to Find O'Neill, Eugene - Long Day's Journey into Night Orwell, George - Animal Farm Pasternak, Boris - Doctor Zhivago Plath, Sylvia - The Bell Jar Poe, Edgar Allan - Selected Tales Proust, Marcel - Swann's Way Pynchon, Thomas - The Crying of Lot 49 Remarque, Erich Maria - All Quiet on the Western Front Rostand, Edmond - Cyrano de Bergerac Roth, Henry - Call It Sleep Salinger, J.D. - The Catcher in the Rye Shakespeare, William - Hamlet Shakespeare, William - Macbeth Shakespeare, William - A Midsummer Night's Dream Shakespeare, William - Romeo and Juliet Shaw, George Bernard - Pygmalion Shelley, Mary - Frankenstein Silko, Leslie Marmon - Ceremony Solzhenitsyn, Alexander - One Day in the Life of Ivan Denisovich Sophocles - Antigone Sophocles - Oedipus Rex Steinbeck, John - The Grapes of Wrath Stevenson, Robert Louis - Treasure Island Stowe, Harriet Beecher - Uncle Tom's Cabin Swift, Jonathan - Gulliver's Travels Thackeray, William - Vanity Fair Thoreau, Henry David - Walden Tolstoy, Leo - War and Peace Turgenev, Ivan - Fathers and Sons Twain, Mark - The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn Voltaire - Candide Vonnegut, Kurt Jr. - Slaughterhouse-Five Walker, Alice - The Color Purple Wharton, Edith - The House of Mirth Welty, Eudora - Collected Stories Whitman, Walt - Leaves of Grass Wilde, Oscar - The Picture of Dorian Gray Williams, Tennessee - The Glass Menagerie Woolf, Virginia - To the Lighthouse Wright, Richard - Native Son ~~~ Knitting Content The Scrappy Stole is tripping along at a brisk pace (compared to Shapely T). I'm about half done. It should be done this weekend. ~~~ From the Ally Archives I love how her front paws turn out.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 4:25:00 PM ----- BODY:

I Love to Knit ~ I Love My Dog ~ SO THERE! Our fearless ring leader, Carrie, has recently gotten slammed for hosting the Purling Puppie Web Ring. This June 7th post also implied that those of us who subscribe to this web ring are somehow sappy, shallow, imature knitters that are stoopid to include our four-footed friends in our blogs. Web Rings are set up to link people with common interests. The subscribers of the Purling Puppy Web Ring just happen to be dog owning knitters. So if you don't like it, don't surf the ring. Yeah, I must admit that some indulge in over-sentimentality, but for the most part, seeing our furry friends brings a smile to my face. I feel sorry that this blogger has such cynical and negative outlook on life that she has to personally critisize Carrie for her youthful exuberance. ~~~ Now for knitting content. Scrappy Happy is I! I went home last night and dived into my stash closet and came up with an overflowing bag of yarn scraps. I've read on other Scrap-a-long blogs that they are just picking yarns at random regardless of color or weight. Folks, I seriously considered doing that, but it went so against my nature that I found myself separating the scraps into color groups, I did, however, mix weights. Here is progress on my Scrappy Stole: From the Ally Archives (look away if you don't want to see one cute puppy!)~ I'm off to sign up for the Knitty Kitty Web Ring.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 11:13:00 AM ----- BODY:

The play/rock opera was a success! Over the three nights we had over 700 people attend! It was certainly worth all the hard work and late nights. I love the performing arts. Here are so pictures of the set that my husband worked so diligently on. Set 1 Set 2 Set 3 Set 4 And here are pictures of some of the characters in the play. The Formerly Demon Possessed Woman singing about her healing by the "Miracle Man." Marketts & John the Baptist singing "Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world." The Dread Pharisees (my husband is the one in the middle). The Wraiths looking unusually evil. Jesus on the Cross And a not very flattering photo of me and Graeme. Picture of Jesus is a rock opera (similar to Jesus Christ Superstar)based on the four Gospels. We have produced a 2-CD album of all the songs ($20.00) and the 2004 video/DVD should be out in the next several weeks. If you are interested in obtaining further information, please feel free to email me or post a comment. ~~~ Knitting Content: I have some finished objects to show you! Here are some embellished flip flops I quickly whipped up. And here are four scarves. Left to right 1) one strand Crystal Palace Waikiki and one strand Crystal Palace Fizz; 2) A discontinued Crystal Palace cotton yarn with gradations of color and cotton "slubs" intersperced; 3) Crystal Palace Splash; and 4) A very fancy yarn (I can't remember the name or brand, but I do remember it was very expensive! These were all knit on size 15 needles. I actually knit a few rows on Shapely T last night! Daughter has a basketball game tonight, so I will get another hour or so of knitting done on this project. I am finding that I am a bit bored with the Shapely T; however, I will persevere because I committed to the knit-a-long and I do love the look of the garment and the yarn I chose. But to add a bit of spice to my life, I may start another project or two...

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 4:48:00 PM ----- BODY:

* French Market bag turned out to be a bust (waaah). I don't know what it is with me and Lamb's Pride. Perhaps I am too used to felting with Noro Kureyon where I have to felt the "heck" out of it. Whereas, with Lamb's Pride, I look away and the thing shrivels up. I don't think I knit it deep enough and the bag looks like a feeding trough (sigh). * I finally found out who my Secret Knit Pal was! The lovely and talented Alison of the Blue Blog fame! Thank you Alison for all your encouragement and gifties over the last few weeks. Her final gift to me was the wonderful Sophie bag filled with three wonderful skeins of yarn and a couple of quickie scarf patterns. Woo Hoo! * My Secret Knit Pal was Tara of KnittinTales. I had so much fun sending her little what-nots and yarn over the last three months. However, she will not get her final pressie until my life settles down, i.e. next week. Tara, sorry about the "day late and a dollar short..." that seems to be the theme of my life lately. * I knitted up three quickie scarves to add to my craft fair bounty and I have been embelishing flip flops with Fun Fur around the thong area to sell too. My teeny bopper daughter loves her embelished flip flops and assures me all her friends will too. * Shapely Tank is stalled on the needles because my life is just too busy right now (see May 24th post). Will resume next week - hopefully. * I couldn't resist the allure of the Scrap-a-Long hosted by Larissa so I joined (what, are you crazy?!). I'm planning on using the Rosedale pattern. That's it for today - off to dress rehearsal!

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 6:08:00 PM ----- BODY:

Prayer Pots! Crocheted from Marlo's wonderful pattern. Crocheted with a K hook, I used Colinette's Point Five yarn for the large pots and Colinette's One-Zero yarn for the two small pots. All yarn gleaned from the stash, I might add. Instead of crocheting the lid handle, I opted to attach a large wooden bead instead. Hamster not included (hehe)...This is Ron, our new addition to the family. From the Ally Archives~

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 11:10:00 AM ----- BODY:

I can live with Kinky, Naughty and Insane but Masculine? I would think Marvelous, Musical, or even Mule-headed would work better. Ah, it's just a stoopid quiz anyway.

K	Kinky
N	Naughty
I	Insane
T	Talented
T	Tender
I	Important
-
M	Masculine
E	Enjoyable

Name / Username:

Name Acronym Generator
From Go-Quiz.com ~~~ Just coming up for a quick breath of air before diving into my INSANE (see "I" above) weekend! I have been knitting, believe it or not. The wool to finish up the French Market Bag finally arrived and I was hoping to have it finished and felted today for my friend's birthday. Alas, she will have to wait until Tuesday. I was able to finish up the last of the knitting during lunch today, but I still need to Kitchener stitch up the handles and felt. I've also been throwing together some quickie projects to add to the craft fair. One of my vendors backed out (boo hoo)! She was a custom jewelry maker. Looks like I'll have to shake the bushes a bit more to see if I can get someone else.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 5:39:00 PM ----- BODY:

Persona non Blogga... ...to coin Amy’s phrase. After returning from Nicaragua, I have been thrown headfirst into major “suck the life out of you” projects and I find myself overwhelmed! Pass the paper bag – I’m hyperventilating! * What do you get when you have a group of 90 people who will be putting on a large-scale rock opera production for first weekend in June? A pack of overworked, underpaid (we’re all volunteers) crazed people who love performing arts. Not only is it large-scale event spread over three days, it is an outside venue with food court and craft bazaar in addition to the 2-hour+ production each evening. * We began preparations nearly six weeks ago, but now that we’re down to the wire we’re attending rehearsals virtually every night and pulling all weekenders for full cast rehearsals and costume and set development and implementation. Husband is in cast and set design, daughter is in cast and dance troupe, son is with security and lights, and I am in cast and costuming/props plus bazaar coordination (more on that below). * I was just informed yesterday that in addition to my part as a humble village woman and Martha, sister of Lazarus, I would also be playing Herodias, mistress of King Herod (actually Herod’s brother’s wife – the scoundrel). Oy. This means major costume changes, more than just a change in headpiece. Hummm, looks like I’ll need to do some research and get my sewing machine and glue gun out. * Many weeks ago, I had signed up to assist in the craft bazaar coordination. In addition to the performance we have a craft fair and food court available two hours prior to show time. So I have been scrambling to find vendors. I think I have pinned down a custom jewelry maker and an artist who paints fabulous silk scarves, but I’m still trying to locate a weaver (to add authenticity to our “marketplace.”) If you live in the Sacramento area, weave and/or spin and are available on June 3, 4 or 5 – email me! * I usually sell some of my hand-knit or crocheted items, but with my trip and all, my stock was way down; so I had pretty much decided to not contribute this year. But then my friends said I really should include some of my items, so I have been (mainly) crocheting up a storm – why, why do I do this to myself? * I still need to finish uploading pictures to my Nica-Report. * June is the annual open enrollment for my biggest account so I have to prepare my team for the huge influx of applications and telephone calls. * My kids are also in a basketball league, which includes chauffeuring to/from practice (two different teams) and weekly games (Mom’s, you know how it is). * And it is the end of the school year and we have many end-of-year events to participate in (thank goodness neither of my kids are graduating this year, or I'd have parties to plan too). So there you have it…I’ll stop with the whining now. Oh, please don’t write my off as a blogger – in the words of California’s Governor Schwartzernager, “I’ll be back.”

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 7:19:00 PM ----- BODY:

May is my blog-iversary month. It's hard to believe I have been blogging for a year now! I began lurking around the knitting blogs last March or April a year ago and took my first baby blogging steps in May. I can remember first reading about the Maryland Sheep & Wool festival. Back then I couldn't understand the fanaticism surrounding this event, but now I do! Not being able to make the pilgrimage to Maryland, I did travel to the Dixon Lamb Festival last July and to Stitches West in February. I also remember Wendy loosing precious Izzy and then adopting Lucy the Magnificent. Oh, and don't forget Damsel, the kitty Geane found in the engine of a car and nursed back to health. And I would be remiss to not mention Jerry's wonderful kitty bios. What about the charity knitting? Wendy's Mouse-a-Thon and the Critter Knitters Knit-a-Thon with Liz over at Crafty B (still on-going). And the very special Knitbloggers Knitting Basket Project. We watched as Rob and Matt quit their jobs and dared to live out their fibery fantasies by setting up shop. It's a wonderful community, knit bloggers, and I am proud to be a part of it. Knit ON!

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 11:36:00 AM ----- BODY:

Not sure I like the updated blogger. I've been trying for two days to upload pics to my Nica-Report blog. After a lot of time and heartache, I finally was able to upload only four photos. Anyway, despite the blogger business, I had a most excellent weekend. It started out Friday night when I "cashed" in my birthday massage and facial at Geri's Garden Day Spa. This was my first experience with a full on massage (over an hour - AAAAHHHH). Afterwards I swung by my favorite vegetarian restaurant, The Sunflower, and picked up dinner for me and my husband. The kids spent Saturday at Six Flags with the church youth group so I took the opportunity to clean out my kitchen. One thing that became quite clear to me in Nicaragua is that I have way too much, so I am on a crusade to simplify my life. I set up a table in my driveway and began carting stuff out to sell to anyone who was interested. By the end of the day I had quite a pile and what was left was put into husband's van and taken over to Goodwill. I plan to continue this purging until my possessions are pared down. Will this apply to my stash? We'll see. Of course the GSRP boxes will be making their rounds again so I may have lots of yarn that will need to go to a good home. It was a good movie weekend too. We rented four movies. First up was Scary Movie 3. I know, I know - but my high school buddy worked on this film and there were a couple laugh out loud moments too. Besides we had to sit through the credits until I saw my friend's name scroll up the screen. Then we watched The Last Samarai. I'm not a huge Tom Cruise fan, but I actually liked him in this movie. Next was Big Fish. Very entertaining. I love stories of reconciliation. And we finished up the weekend Sunday night with A Girl with a Pearl Earring. I had read the book, and of course the book is always better, but they did a pretty good job with the screenplay. I loved the costumes and sets and to have a look into Dutch life in the 1600's. So, did I get any knitting done? A bit. Of course I had a lot of movie time; however, much of the time the project sat in my lap as I focused my attention on the movie. Sunday, the kids had their basketball games, so I got 2 1/2 hours of basketball knitting in too. I worked on my Secret Knitting Pal's final (crocheted) gift, which is blocking right now. I still need to add some embelishments, but it's pretty close to finished. I also put a couple of inches on my Shapely T. I frogged the Monet Skies Scarf and started the Monet Skies Stole instead. I've knitted about 10 inches so far. I'm still waiting on my order of Lamb's Pride so I can finished my French Market bag... Oh, I forgot to mention when I returned from my trip a package was waiting for me from my Secret Knitting Pal! She sent me two precious crocheted flowers that I can use to embellish a project or two. They just happen to compliment my Shapely T yarn - hummmmm. Also included was a whimsical tape measure with a cow theme. I had to confiscate it from the kids and pop it into my knitting bag or I might have not seen it again. THANK YOU SECRET KNITTING PAL! It's a bit of a rambling post today - ah well.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 4:40:00 PM ----- BODY:

Ok, some of you may know I am part of the Secret Knitting Pal Program and the end of May is the time for the big reveal and presenting a hand-made gift. I have really been having a crochet urge and have a wonderful pattern I really want to try. Do you think it would be out of place to present my Secret KNIT Pal with a CROCHETED gift? Personally, I wouldn't mind; a hand-made gift is a treasure no matter what medium is used. But what do you think?

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 4:51:00 PM ----- BODY:

I’m baaaaaack! And I had a fabulous time in Nicaragua. It was a trip of a lifetime, but it has already taken on a feeling of unreality now that I’m back in the US of A. For years I had heard and seen a bit of the wonderful fiber arts of Central and South America, so with visions of Manos del Uruguay, Mexican serapes, and Peruvian woven fabrics I anxiously anticipated locating some Nicaraguan textiles. I was sadly disappointed. Apparently, Nicaragua is not known for their fiber arts, at least not in Leon and Managua. However, thread crochet is very popular (although not one of my personal favorites) and I spied many a doily and baby bootie. I even came upon a vendor in the mercado (market) crocheting away on a doily while waiting for customers to enter her booth. I stopped and tried to communicate my pleasure at seeing her working on a handcrafted item and I pantomimed that I too knitted and crocheted. She was gracious enough to show me her pattern book, all in Spanish of course. At one point I did find a store that specialized in sewing notions, buttons, lace, trim and cotton thread. My mom was able to communicate that I was interested in lanos (wool). After digging around in a cupboard, they brought out some acrylic (ack, take it away!) then came up with some wool/acrylic combos (Lanas Domesticas), made in Central America. So I bought 15 skeins for 75 Cordobas (about $5.00). Nicaragua is a very poor country and most of the items sold at the markets are cheap Asian merchandise. Leon in particular is not very geared to tourism, which is good, because I really was able to be immersed in the culture, but bad because I had a hard time finding (quality) souvenirs. Just to find a T-shirt with “Property of Nicaragua” or some such, was quite a hunt. I shopped many clothing stores and saw Sacramento Kings and LA Lakers basketball jerseys on sale (what the…?) but no touristy tees. But I finally located a street vendor in the Parque Central (central park) who had a sampling of Nicaraguan t-shirts and I was able to score a couple for my kids. Further wanderings around the Parque Central, found me at a vendor who made their own jewelry and carried other Nicaraguan souvenirs. Here are two pair of earrings and a bracelet made from sterling silver and polished stones. And here is a beautiful woven bag. I have no idea if it was crafted in Nicaragua, but I liked the colors and style and I bought it in Nicaragua. And of course the maracas, the better to make music with! A Nicaraguan friend of one of the people I stayed with is an artist and I bought one of his paintings. This painting makes me very happy when I look at it. At the hotel souvenir shop and later at the airport I was able to make a few more last minute purchases. A ceramic pot. A woven purse made out of plant fiber. Again, I don't know if this was crafted in Nicaragua, but I loved the style, construction, and uniqueness. ~~~ Knitting... I took my Shapely T down with me and was able to spend a little time in the evenings ripping back to the short row section and then knitting for 1 1/2 inches before beginning the waist decreases. I'm currently at the "knitting 14 rows even" before doing the waist increases.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 5:29:00 PM ----- BODY:

All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go, I'm standing here outside my door, I’m blogging now just to say “Goodbye.” But the dawn is breaking it's early morn My mom is waiting, blowin’ her horn Already I'm so excited I could fly… So wish me a safe journey, Tell me that you'll knit with me, Knit like you’ve never knit before… 'cause I'm leaving on a jet plane, I’ll be back my dear blogging friends, Oh babe, I can’t wait to go… (adapted from Leaving on a Jet Plane by John Denver) ~~~ I know - it's a stretch. Anyway, I won't be posting here until my return to California May 11th. However, I will be updating my travel blog, The Nica Report, chronicling my adventures in Nicaragua. So if you need a knitti-me fix, go on over and check it out. Knit on my friends!

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 7:16:00 PM ----- BODY:

Knitting Progress? Shapely T None. Ripping back requires my full attention so I need to find a pocket of uninterrupted time to concentrate or I might as well just start over. Monet Skies Scarf She is nonexistent. I made a mistake and tried to rip back (mohair ripping is messy) and ended up scratching. I may start again. I love the color and pattern; the wool is nice too if I don't have to rip back. French Market Bag Moving along. This is the only project that has made any progress (due to kids basketball game=knitting in the stands). I'm about 7 inches up the side (the pattern calls for 8, but I want to make my bag a bit deeper and may knit to 9 or 10 inches). However, I'm just about out of blue yarn. Not sure what I'll do. Stay tuned. From the Ally Archives Here's an Ally Action Shot. She's manically rubbing her face and back all over the sofa. Gotta love her...

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 8:36:00 PM ----- BODY:

The Name That Monster contest has a winner! Melissa of Hyvetyrant Knits was the first with the correct answer. Congratulations Melissa! Here are some of the guesses I received: An Ewok. Aaaww. I don't think that my crazed creature could ever be mistaken for an Ewok. The Abominable Snowman. Maybe prior to his trip to the dentist - but no. Or the monster from The Woman Eater. Uh, I don't think so. How about Martia from Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country. While beautiful and exotic, my monster is not even on the same playing field; however they do have certain abilities in common. Then we have The Yarn Yeti (photo not available; she's rather shy). While The Yarn Yeti is renown for fiercely protecting yarn stashes throughout the world, my monster has only been known to growl whenever my husband comes too close to my stash. But the true answer to my Name That Monster contest was the Salt Monster (or Salt Vampire) from original Star Trek series. Striking resemblance don't you think? So what is Melissa getting for her self-admitted google prowess? This! That my friends is one ball each of Perriwinkle wool and loopy mohair/wool/nylon both hand painted by Lotus Blossom; one ball of GGH Fee; and one ball of Colinette's Skye wool. I think this 4-set would make this really cute hat; but Melissa is free to use the yarn in any way she feels like. Knit on!

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 8:16:00 AM ----- BODY:

A UFO has landed! Last night I actually dived into my UFO pile and pulled out this vest. This vest had been stewing in there for over a year! All that was needed to finish her up was the shoulder seams sewn, ends woven in, and buttons and button loops attached. Talk about procrastination! And to think, I could have had a beautiful vest to wear all winter. The pattern is from Knitter's Fall 2002 issue. Knit in Colinette's Point Five thick/thin wool in the Morocco colorway. ~~~ Name that Monster contest update. I've been getting a few guesses and all of them have been good and even produced laugh out loud moments, but nobody is even near the mark. I have yarn in my embarrassing large stash that I want to give away! So I'll give you a hint. A decade. The 1960's. There is also an oblique reference to the specific show on my Finished Objects page. Good luck!

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 8:41:00 PM ----- BODY:

Look at what I got in the mail! Yes friends that's 1,240 yards of yarny bliss: 500 yds bulky 85% wool, 15 % mohair; 125 yds bulky loopy wool boucle, 165 yds bulky loopy mohair, 125 yds baby loopy mohair in solid orchid, 200 yds thick spun mohair in solid yellow, 125 yds brushed mohair. Danette Taylor, the extrordinary fiber artist behind this hand painted yarn, certainly outdid herself this time! In addition to my yarn/knitting passion, I also collect 1930's Metlox Pottery (similar to Fiesta Ware-but better!). I inherited a "starter" set from my Grandmother and have added to it over the years. So what does my two passions have in common? Well, I'll show you: Hey, they match! ~~~ No real knitting progress to report. ~~~ Don't forget the Name That Monster contest! Come on guys, make a guess.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 8:23:00 PM ----- BODY:

NAME THAT MONSTER! Ok all you sci fi fans, name that monster. The first one with the correct answer will win a knitti prize! Email me your answers by clicking my link in the sidebar. <<<<----------------- I'll need to hear from you by Saturday, April 24th. Woo Hoo! ~~~ Knitting Progress Shapely T As I mentioned in the Shapely Tank Knitalong Blog, I started my decreases too soon, so I have to rip back to the end of the short row section and begin again. (sigh) Monet Skies Scarf No progress. French Market Bag I was itching for a new felting project. I rummaged in my stash and brought out some Lamb's Pride I purchased at my LYS's divorce sale last fall. Mes amies, je vous presente le sac du marche'.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 7:43:00 PM ----- BODY:

Some of my readership couldn't believe I still had my granny square vest. Wow! nearly 30 years! I tell you, that acrylic yarn could survive a nuclear attack. Ready for some more nostalgia? Here are two dresses my mom made. My mother was a child of the depression and certainly knew how to make just about anything out of, well, anything. My mom made these dresses from scratch, i.e. no pattern. Circa 1972 or 1973. This first dress was a compilation of quilting scraps sewed together for the skirt with a bodice, sleeves and collar added to complete the frock. Click here to see the back. This next dress was one of my all-time favorites. We lived in San Francisco and my mom would comb the industrial district picking up mill ends from dress factories. The mumu factory was always a great resource. This dress is made entirely from mumu factory mill ends.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 7:10:00 PM ----- BODY:

I had to really had to chuckle when I read Wendy Knits April 2nd Post. She asked, "Ooh! That reminds me -- did anyone else have a funky granny square vest when they were a kid? When I was 12 or 13 they were oh-so-in-style and my grandmother made one for me. I was too cool for words." Well folks, here is my funky granny square vest for your viewing pleasure: My mom crocheted this for me on one of our family's summertime pilgrimages to Wyoming in 1974 or 75. I was one hip chick! I often paired my cool vest with jeans where the side seam had been cut and an insert of funky fabric was sewed in thus making one pair of groovy bell bottoms! ~~~ You want to see some WIP pictures? Shapely T: I'm about four inches in and have already begun the waist decreases. Monet Skies Scarf: I had pretty much burnt out on scarves after the craft show and Christmas frenzy, but last night I felt an urge to cast on for a light and airy scarf knit from Colinette Mohair in the Monet colorway. I'm knitting it in an easy honeycomb pattern.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 11:00:00 AM ----- BODY:

Aw shucks! Thank you all so much for your kind comments on Marilyn. I really, really appreciate it. Marta Here is the progress on Marta. It looks a bit like the Statue of Liberty's head piece, don't you think? Anyway, I have made an executive decision. I am going to put Marta in the UFO pile (gasp!). Settle down now, I'm not giving her up, I'm just postponing the creation until Fall. You see, this pattern has long sleeves and knit with wool, and frankly it's getting just too hot. So I'm trading one White Lies Design for another. I've gone ahead and joined the Shapely Tank Knit-along. I still haven't decided if I will knit the Shapely Tank.jpg or the Shapely Tee.jpg. Fortunately, I have miles of stocking stitch and short rows before I have to make up my mind. Here is my Shapely Swatch. I am knitting it out of some absolutely gorgeous handpainted Egyptian Cashmere Cotton in the Petunias colorway from the Textile Design Art ebay store. Ok, now I'm confused. I really freaked out when I saw the size needle required for the Shapely Tee/Tank was a size 6. Following my usual modus operandi, I would go down two needle sizes (size 4's! No, say it's not true!). But as fate would have it, I didn't have any needles smaller than a 6. However, I was so anxious to see this lovely yarn worked up, that I swatched with the 6's anyway. And wouldn't you know it - I was spot on gauge. What the...? Maybe some of you veteran knitters can enlighten me. Do you think that cotton yarn would make such a difference to my knitting gauge? Or knitting with small (for me) needles would make a difference? So now I have the pattern in one hand and Bonne Marie's short row tutorial in the other and I'm going to tackle short rows - Woo Hoo! From the Ally archives...

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 1:07:00 PM ----- BODY:

I just had to chortle … I work in group life insurance and run across thousands of names. Today I read two names that my cubicle mate and I had a good snigger over: David Dick and Janet Porn (he he). Ok Marie, grow up already! (Cue cheesy porn music.) Notes on Marilyn… SSSHHH, I’m covertly blogging from work, but I wanted to write down some thoughts I had about the Simply Marilyn project. This was a great project for me to stretch my fledgling knitting techniques. Things I learned: * Gauge and yarn substitution! As I learned with Rosedale, it pays to [check] gauge. I was on a self-imposed yarn fast and was determined to use up some of my yarn stash. I knew I had almost enough of Lion Brand Kool Wool in the Melon colorway to make Marilyn, so I swatched. Once again I had to go down two needle sizes, but I’m getting use to the label of loose woman (cue cheesy porn music). * Cabling! It’s really not as hard as it looks and it’s really fun. Inserting the cable really broke up the miles of stockinette required for the front and back. I now feel I’m ready for a little bit more intricate cabling project. * Knitting Sleeves in Tandem! This was a great way to stave off second sleeve syndrome. And I didn't get confused one bit with the two balls of yarn, etc. * Seaming! As I shared in a prior post, up to this point I got away with crocheting my seams together. Well, I crocheted the seams together on Marilyn and it looked horrendous. So I thrust the project aside in disgust for several days. During this “cooling off” time, I toyed with the idea of relegating Marilyn to the UFO pile, “It’s really too hot to wear now anyway,” I reasoned. But then I roused myself out of my slump – I couldn’t let my reader-ship down, I had to push on, I had to persevere, I had to LEARN HOW TO SEAM. So out with the knitting tutorials. With Marilyn spread out before me I commence to sew up my first seam. “Wow, this is really cool,” I said to my husband, showing him my handiwork. I don’t know if he was too impressed, but my crafty friends at work certainly were. I wouldn’t say I’m totally in love with seaming (if I had the option to knit in the round I’d take it every time) but it’s not a horrible process either. Enough said. * Altering a pattern to suit my needs! After seaming Marilyn together, I thought it ridiculous to knit the collar flat and then seam it together. So I pick up stitches around the neck and began the collar ribbing. I had to rewrite the pattern instructions a bit in order to translate from flat to round knitting, but I did it! Sue was right when she said it felt as if the collar took almost as long to knit as the rest of the sweater. So my dear readers. I join Bron and Sue in the Simply Marilyn Ranks of Finished Objects (go on over to their sites and check out their Marilyns). Next…swatching for the Shapely Tee (cue cheesy porn music…). You know that ...

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 8:18:00 AM ----- BODY:

Simply Marilyn Revealed! I finished her up around 1:30 a.m. Easter morning. It has been in the 80's all week so I hadn't even thought of wearing her. However, I woke up this morning to cold temps (with the chance of rain) and put her right on. This is not the most flattering sweater for me, but I like it. It is very warm and cozy and gives some "breathing room" around the neck. So there you have it. I don't have much time this morning, so no time to chat. Knit on!

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 2:55:00 PM ----- BODY:

I'm off to Nicaragua! Actually, I won't be leaving until May 1st (staying for 10 days), but I am certainly in the preparation phase. I will be working with a mercy and community development organization called Mercy Ships Nicaragua (although "ship" is mentioned in the name, I will not be sailing on any). I have set up an on-line journal, in which I am chronicling my journey to and from Nicaragua. I will be posting every few days about my preparations for the trip, the origins of Mercy Ships, my thoughts on missions, a little about myself, etc. Check back often for updates. You can access my on-line journal at here. ~~~ Still plodding along on Marilyn's collar, but I think I just might be able to premier the sweater at church Easter Sunday! Wish me good knitting vibes for some uninterrupted knitting time.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 10:32:00 PM ----- BODY:

I commissioned my friend (and co-worker) and crafter extraordinaire, badcat Karin, to make a pair of quilted slippers for my niece's second birthday. Aren't they adorable? I want a pair! I love the way Karin combines fabrics and then free-form machine quilts them to create such interesting designs. ~~~~ I'm only 2" (out of 8") into Marilyn's collar. Life is really cutting into my knitting time (sigh).

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 1:26:00 PM ----- BODY:

Looks like some knitting bloggers took the knitti-me challenge (see March 23rd post)! First up we have Whimworx (on her March 25th post) with her mischievious smile and cute Maia too. And then we have Cylynne (on her April 3rd post) with her wacky self-portrait... and her "come here big boy" portrait. And then there's Bron (see her April 6th post) with her, "I've got a secret and I'm not telling" self-portrait... and then a most compelling portrait that makes me think of "calm waters run deep." I know I've forgotten someone. Please comment or email me (marieedmondson at yahoo dot com) so I can post your pics here too. ~~~ I hope to post again tonight and show you some progress pixs and also showcase some adorable quilted slippers my friend made. Until then...

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 6:48:00 PM ----- BODY:

Lookie, look, look at what my Secret Knit Pal made for me!!!! Buttons for knitti-ME! I love that she used my manic self-portrait for one button (this reminds me that I can never take myself too seriously). I was having a drink when I opened my Secret Pal's email and nearly spewed Diet Coke all over the keyboard I was laughing so hard. Now I just have to figure out how to incorporate the buttons on my sidebar. Any blogspot users out there know the secret? Thank you Secret Knit Pal! ~~~ I suppose you want to see progress on Marilyn, well here she is in all her seamed glory. I am anxiously waiting to pick up stitches around the neck and start the collar; however, my mom came into town and I haven't had much time between her and work, church and family. "I having the shakes man, I need a knitting fix."

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 12:50:00 PM ----- BODY:

Marilyn Progress - kind of... Ah well, it looks like I'll have to learn how to seam the proper way. Up to this point I have been able to get away with crocheting my seams together. Whether it was due to the pattern, yarn or coloring, the crocheted seams always seemed to do the job. Not with Marilyn though. Last night I finished the sleeves, steamed the pieces and began to crochet them together - not a pretty sight to say the least. So tonight I will be pouring over my "how to" books and give proper seaming a try. ~~~ I did make progress on Marta this morning. While waiting in the doctor's office I was able to finish up the last two lacey panels on the hem. I will now be able to join in the round, pick up stitches and begin miles of stockinette. It is nice, however, to begin on the phaze of this project. ~~~ American Idol - I can't believe that America voted off Amy Adams over John Stevens. I can't believe John didn't even get into the bottom three - what the...??? Amy has lots of personality, a style of her own and she can sing on tune! Sorry John, you are probably a real nice guy, but you have no on-screen presence, can't dance, and your last two performances were, in the words of Simon, abysmal. ~~~ Oh, and I have an extra copy of Vogue Knits Spring/Summer 2004 issue. I picked up a copy at WalMart forgetting that I subscribed to this magazine a couple of months ago. Guess what showed up in my mail box yesterday... In my daughter's vernacular, "my bad." So if you would like to have my extra copy, let me know in the comments or send me an email to marieedmondson at yahoo dot com. First come first served.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 3:27:00 PM ----- BODY:

I have been working exclusively on Marilyn for the past - oh - week or so. But I haven't been making quick progress because my knitting time has been filled up with family and work obligations. However, I am finally at the last four decreases on the sleeves and will soon be sewing all the pieces together in preparation for the collar, which I will be knitting in the round. I ran into a bit of a roadblock though - I ran out of yarn! What?! Yes! So I began the search for more LB Kool Wool in Melon. I had to visit four stores over two days before I found what I needed. I bought their last 5 skeins (hopefully it will be enough to finish up the shoulder caps and collar). Knit on my blogging buddies.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 5:05:00 PM ----- BODY:

I bet you're thinking it's about time I did a new post so I can move that gawd awful picture down the page a bit. Anyway, here's the progress on Marilyn: The front and back laid out, waiting for their sleeves. Oh, here they are just starting the increases. As you can see I'm knitting them in tandum; a great way to avoid second sleeve syndrome. And my Secret Knitting Pal sent me another package! It's Wren Ross's Greatest Knits, a CD of five songs were Ms. Ross has taken well-known songs and changed the lyrics to appeal to fiber and knitting addict. Here's a verse from the traditional song, Ba Ba Blacksheep: "Ba Ba Blacksheep I've got something to admit, There ain't a day goes by that I don't knit. I knit in the morning, I knit in the night I knit while I'm driving and I'm stopped at the light. Ba Ba Blacksheep this is what I do, Give me your size and I'll knit something for you." The songs are well-done with a quirky sense of humor that is sure to bring a smile to your face. Thank you Secret Knitting Pal.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 1:39:00 PM ----- BODY:

I Dare Ya! I Double Dare Ya! I looked at my blog stats again today and saw that my blog came up on a Google search for, "Suicidal Knitting blog." With that in mind, here is my self-portrait. This photo kind of freaks me out, especially the manic look in my eyes. But on the other hand, I'm rather drawn to it. I think it shows the quirky side of my personality. When people first meet me (and I'm sure this was true for the ladies I met at Stitches West), they often think I am a bit of a bump on a log, quiet, shy, etc. Mwahahah, little do they know... My husband and I have an ongoing gag with this picture. He'll find it in his underwear drawer or on his work van under the wiper blade. Or I'll discover it in a book I'm reading or in my knitting bag, under my pillow or in a pocket. Sneaky, sneaky. So, I dare ya! Take a self portrait and post it on your blog. The more crazed the better I say! Lest you forget how I really look, take a look: Real Me.jpg. I didn't want my crazed, manic self portait to be your last impression.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 5:31:00 PM ----- BODY:

Productive Weekend – kind of… A few days ago, my boy/man child decided to hide in my bedroom closet. I call him my boy/man child because he is newly 13, his voice hasn’t changed and he likes to hide in closets. On the other hand he is 5’9” and 180 pounds – a strapping young man. Anyway, once I located him, he began in emerge from the closet and accidentally knocked the support post on my cheesy white wire closet organizer, which we inherited with the house, and the whole apparatus came tumbling down! It has always been our intention of replacing said cheesy white wire closet organizer with a more substantial wooden, modular closet organizer from Lowes. Unfortunately, in this instance, timing and $$ weren’t coinciding, so our dream of a new closet interior was not to be. We were only able to salvage one side of the closet system but the other side was a lost cause. Rather than investing in more cheesy white wire closet organizing accessories, we picked up a two tiered rolling hanging rack and parked it in my side of the closet. Taking the opportunity, I spent the remainder of the day sorting through years of clothes accumulation. My kids, looking down the hall toward my bedroom, could see clothing being tossed out the door at a furious pace, quickly filling up and overflowing the Goodwill box. I am happy to report I am no longer in possession of any late 1980’s shoulder-padded, shirtwaisted dresses. All our costumes are now stored and labeled in vacuum bags put away in a trunk. My husband, who was in construction for several years, had about 500 t-shirts (or so it seemed). I was able to donate quite a few, cut up several for cleaning rags and reserve 5 for when he gets the notion to do some work around the house. I showed no mercy. If it hadn’t been worn it in a year, out it went. If it didn’t fit (big or small), out it went. If it needed darning or mending, out it went. If I thought, “I could reconfigure this into a more flattering shape,” out it went. The majority of my handbags went. Suitcases that had seen one too many trips, went. Sad, tired slippers went, My huge pile of nylons went (I wasn’t going to spend my time looking for runs). I cut my shoe collection in half. I know in my zealousness, I probably threw out more than I should – but you know, it’s just STUFF. And I sure do feel good looking at a pared down closet. The rest of the house…it’s still a mess (sigh). ~~~ In knitting news I cast on the front of Marilyn. I am almost to the neck shaping. I haven’t posted a photo because it looks just like the back. If all goes well, I should be able to finish off the front tonight and perhaps cast on for the sleeves. I’m still working on the lacey hem on Marta. I should be joining in the round soon and begin the miles of stocking stitch. ~~~ From the Ally archives… Daughter and Ms. Ally Doo of the Evil Eyes.

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Today would have been my parent's 59th Wedding Anniversary. While my mom is still going strong, my dear father passed away six weeks before their 50th anniversary (9 years ago). Here is one of my most favorite photos of them from 1947. ~~~ In knitting news, I still haven't cast on for the back of Marilyn and I'm still working on the lacey hem for Marta. This weekend should see some major progress and maybe a new WIP or two. Have a great weekend everybody!

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 3:59:00 PM ----- BODY:

This questionnaire has been going around my church email list and I thought I would use it as today's blogging filler. I suppose if someone was up to stealing my identity, there is plenty of information below; however, I should warn you that I have horrible credit and no money to speak of. How much do we actually know about our friends? This is a questionnaire to get to know your friends better. 1. What time is it? 3:20 p.m. 2. Name as it appears on birth certificate: Sarah Marie Niles 3. Nicknames: "Ree," "Scrapula" 4. Number of candles on your last birthday cake: 39 5. Pets: 1 Dog, 2 Cats, 3 Lizzards, 1 Rabbit, 2 Kids, 1 Husband 6. Natural hair color: Brown 7. Piercing: three 8. Eye color: Brown 9. Hometowns: San Francisco 10. Town/City you live in: Sacramento 11. Favorite foods: Oh, there's so many... 12. Ever been to Africa? Not yet, but my father has. 13. Ever been toilet papering? Don't think so. 14. Love someone so much it made you cry? YES! 15. Been in a car accident? No. 16. Croutons or bacon bits? Croutons over bacon bits, real crumbled bacon over croutons. 17. Favorite day of the week: Saturday morning 18. Favorite restaurants: Mikuni's, Spaghetti Factory, Fat's Asia Bistro, Applebees, The SunFlower. 19. Favorite flower: Nothing in particular. I like fragrant flowers such as honeysuckle and citrus blossoms - severely allergic, but it's worth the few weeks of discomfort (I think). 20. Favorite sport to watch: Husband is not a big sport addict (thank God), but as long as I have my knitting, I can sit through any game. 21. Favorite drink: Diet Coke! 22. Favorite ice cream flavor: Today it's Ben & Jerry's Cherries Garcia. 23. Disney or Warner Bros? Classic Warner Bros. 24. Favorite fast food restaurant? In N Out Burger 25. What color is your bedroom carpet? Dirty. 26. How many times did you fail your driver's test? None 27. Before this one, (from) whom did you get your last e-mail? My Mother. 28. Which store would you choose to max out your credit card? If I had a credit card to max out, it would be Rumplestilskins - the yarn store! 29. What do you do most often when you are bored. Read, knit. 30. Bedtime? Between 11:00 p.m. and midnight, sometimes 1:00 a.m. 31. Who will respond to this email the quickest? The FBI 32. Who is the person you sent this to that is least likely to respond? Arnold Schwarzenegger. 33. Favorite TV shows? Right now - Survivor, American Idol (I know, frivilous) CSI, Law & Order. 34. Last person you went out to dinner with? Does breakfast count? Graeme. 35. Ford or Chevy? Whatever gets me from point A to point B 36. What are you listening to right now? My co-worker's rap music in the next cubicle. 37. What is your favorite color? Autumn colors. 39. How many tattoos do you have? Considering obtaining one (gasp!). 40. Time you finished this email? 3:36 p.m. Knit on!

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 1:51:00 PM ----- BODY:

View My FO's! I think I may have finally gotten my FO's link to work right. Help Thy Neighbor Man wasn't able to make it over this last weekend, so I did some more fussing around and I may have lucked out*. Give it a try and let me know if it links for you. Of course, the FO page (blog) is still a work in progress. I will be adding more items as I get time. *Lucked out - as in I don't know what in the h*ll I'm doing.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 9:37:00 PM ----- BODY:

I've been working on Marilyn and Marta exclusively. Here's the progress thus far: Marilyn - I've finished the back and will be casting on for the front. This has been a fun and quick knit thus far. I'm kicking myself that I didn't knit it in the round though. I can feel a tinge of second sleeve syndrome for the front, but I will overcome it. Marta - I've completed 9 of the 14 "points" needed for the lacey hem treatment. I'll be knitting this garment in the round to be sure; at least up to the armhole shaping. While I'm very excited about these two projects, I'm starting to feel a bit antsy to start something new, especially now that Spring has sprung in Sacramento. I want to knit the White Lies Shapely Tank/Tee, but I don't think I have anything in the stash that would work for this pattern. Unbelievable, you must say - well, most of my stash is wool, not much cotton here (psst, Secret Knitting Pal - you asked for ideas for future projects...). There's a Shapely Tank Knit-a-long over at Rose-Kim's. Well, I'll end with a photo of Ally, squinting in the sun, newly returned from the groomer, hence the sparkly pompom on top.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 4:51:00 PM ----- BODY:

"Holy Blogging Batman, knitti-me needs our help!" Can't seem to get the link to my FO's to work yet. Patience please... I'm going to call in my neighbor for some assistance. Help Thy Neighbor Man is great. He always comes to the rescue when we can't figure out how to get our furnace pilot light going or can't get a picture on our TV from the DVD. Once the SOS is sent out, he comes sauntering over, usually with a kid or two in tow, and gets us out of whatever crisis we happen to be in that day.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 3:52:00 PM ----- BODY:

Blogging Randomness I recently reconnected with a high school buddy (Hi Mich!). After we talked on the phone for nearly two hours, I sat down and emailed her. I mentioned that I had a blog, mainly about knitting and life in general, and if she was interested to go over and have a look. Mich emailed back to say, "Interesting! Not sure I understand it all! That is (about) the knitting obsession; but nice to get a bit of insight on what you are up to and your interests." What??!!! She doesn't understand my knitting fanaticism? Hehe... Well, she better get used to it, after all, she's getting a pair of fingerless gloves out of it. ~~~ If you look in my comments this week, I've received a couple of friendly notes from my Secret Knit Pal (Hi Secret Pal! Thanks for the encouragement.). This is such a fun program and a special thank you to Sandy for setting it all up. ~~~ I'm still trying to figure out how to put images over on my sidebar. Any help would be appreciated. All I can say about Blogger's help features on their site is that they s*ck. ~~~ I've set up a second blog to showcase my finished objects for 2004. I've put a link over in the sidebar, but there's not much to see yet. It's a work in progress. ~~~ In my blogstats, my site came up on a search for "overweight, goth, punk." An overweight, gothic punk - hum... Well, I thought it was funny. ~~~ Well, that's all for today. Knit on!

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 10:49:00 AM ----- BODY:

I got home last night and found a wonderful squishy package from my Secret Knitting Pal! This is what was inside. Some wonderfully fuzzy yarn that will be perfect for scarf knitting come Fall. Thank you Secret Knit Pal wherever/whoever you are! Some progress pictures. Marta Marilyn As I was cruising around the knit blogs yesterday, I ran across a blog with an adorable picture of a squirrel eating a cracker (sorry, but I can't seem to remember whose blog it was on). Here's a pic of a little guy who resides in my back yard. Have a wonderful day!

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 1:44:00 PM ----- BODY:

I got the GSRP Aran Box off today during my lunch break. I did restrain myself, however, from having the postal worker take my picture as I pushed the box across the counter. Now it's off to Rebecca in Davis, California! ~~ Now a technical question for blogspot users: How can I put images, such as the GSRP button or pictures, on my sidebar? ~~ Marta Progress! Having never worked with charts before, I needed to transcribe the lacey hem chart into text (i.e., Row 1: K5, (yo K2tog) 6 times, yo, K2). I've always worked better with text; perhaps that's why I gave up on cross stitch... Anyway, I sent off an SOS email to Joan McGowan-Michael of White Lies Designs, the creater of this fabulous pattern, for help. She quickly replied and set me on the right track. So now I've worked three of the 14 "points" needed for the hem. I decided I'm going to knit this in the round up to the shoulder shaping; the thought of having to knit two stocking stitch panels gives me a bit of second sleeve/sock syndrom heebie jeebies. ~~ While in Borders on Saturday, I picked up this issue of Interweave Knits and fell in love with the sweater on the cover. I ran home, rummaged in my stash and found enough LB Kool Wool (nabbed at a clearance sale for $1.00/skein) to whip this baby up! I'm already about 4 inches into the back. Shoulda knit in the round, but with big yarn/big needles shouldn't be as daunting as the miles of stocking stitch on Marta. Oh, and I'm cabling! Woo Hoo! I hope to have progress pics soon. Knit on my knitting buddies.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 12:43:00 PM ----- BODY:

My husband called me at work yesterday, "Marie, you just received a big box in the mail. What is it?" Squealing with glee I panted, "Oh, that must be the Great Stash Redistribution Project Box!" "Great what?!" he replied. "The Great Stash Redistribution Project, you know, knit bloggers put yarn and knitting stuff in and the next knit blogger takes some out and put some in and...oh, never mind...you'll see." The Box... The Contents... What I took out... What I put in... Fun, fun, fun!!! I didn't find much in this box, but as you can see, I had plenty to offer (and there's more where that came from). Can't wait for the next round. Oh, and I have a finished project. Presenting Cape Bohemia! It is knit with Fiesta Yarn's La Boheme (a 100% brushed mohair paired with a 100% rayon boucle) in their Raspberry Mocha colorway. This yarn was something I just happened to have in my embarrassingly large stash-ahem! The ponch-ette is a bit short at the moment, but after a bit of blocking should be just right.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 4:43:00 PM ----- BODY:

You like black sock yarn. You are goth. You don't accept any colors but black.
What color of sock yarn do you prefer?
brought to you by Quizilla Hehe - hey Bron, if Anne Rice is writing my book (see Feb. 4th post), I guess she's knitting my socks too. Please raise your gem-encrusted goblets to those of us who have a bit of Goth in our natures.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 9:53:00 AM ----- BODY:

Lest you think I've been slacking, here is my next work in progress. Cape Bohemia! Although right now it looks likes a blob of fibery goodness, I can assure you is turning into a beautiful, lacey ponch-ette. I picked up this pattern at Stitches West after seeing and trying on the shop sample from ImagiKnit. Click here for a close-up of the pattern (scroll to the bottom of the page). I should have this baby done by tomorrow. Woo Hoo! I'll leave you with the Colinette throw I knit my sister for her 50th birthday last year.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 1:54:00 PM ----- BODY:

If Bron can post a Demon Puppy pic, so can I! Sinister Ally-ster (insert evil howling).

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 9:20:00 PM ----- BODY:

It's always such a treat when the Receptionist comes around the corner of your cubicle with a big, squishy package! Here is some beautiful yarn I ordered from White Lies Design to knit this. I love the graceful lines and old world feel Joan MacGowan-Michael's designs invoke. Can't wait to roll these hanks into center-pull balls, then to swatch! As of Ash Wednesday, I started a yarn fast for Lent. From now until Easter, it's "no yarn for you!" But that's not to say, "no knitting for you." I have plenty to keep me busy for the next six weeks or so. As you may have surmised, I got this little White Lies Design kit just under the wire (mwwaahaha). From the Ally archives:

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 6:52:00 PM ----- BODY:

As I sit here at my computer, I am wearing my new fingerless mitts! Woo Hoo! For the first time in about 2 years I picked up a crochet hook to whip out these mitts. (An aside: For years I had been an advid crocheter; however, since I took up knitting, I haven't looked back. I, of course, use crochet for finishing touches—always a good skill to have.) I picked up this quick knit from Stitches West, which included a ball of S. Charles Ritratto yarn, the pattern and pretty buttons. Here's a closeup of the button.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 9:24:00 AM ----- BODY:

Have Poncho Will Travel Here is my lovely daughter modeling her new poncho. I picked up this pattern and yarn at Stitches West last Friday. Ladies and gentlemen I knitted this baby in less than a week. Of course the pattern is not rocket science knitting, but it's still a record for me. The pattern is from Needful Yarns, pattern #195. The yarn used is Filtes King's Konny in color #206. This is a quick knit (obviously) with big needles and even bigger yarn; a great instant gratification project. When I knit this pattern again (and I will knit it again), I will knit it in the round thus eliminating the side seams. Of course Ally has to get into the act.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 9:46:00 AM ----- BODY:

Thwarted! I did indeed finish the poncho last night with the intention of having photo shoot with daughter this morning. However, alarm didn’t go off due to power outage, attributed to severe wind and rain storm, and whole household was in an uproar just to get out the door. Ally says, “Whatcha lookin’ at me for? I didn’t do anything.”

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 2:25:00 PM ----- BODY:

Barring any unforseen obstacles (like my mother showing up on my doorstep-HA!), my daughter should have a new poncho to wear to school tomorrow. Come to think of it, she may get to wear it on Friday because if I don’t show up at work for show and tell, my colleagues will never forgive me (hehe)! I’m nearly done with the second half; quickly working my way up to the neck ribbing. Sew the side seams, attach the fringe and Voila!

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 9:00:00 PM ----- BODY:

Rosedale Unveiled! If the many compliments I received at church were any indication, I would say the sweater was a smashing success. WOO HOO! I can now say with certainty, the sweater demon has been slain. All of a sudden I feel as though a whole new world has been opened to me. I feel a sense of awe and power knowing I can, with the correct tools and calculations, create a beautiful garment that fits (insert angelic singing and heavenly rays here)! Things I learned from this project: 1. It pays to check gauge (I know, duh!). I had to go down two needle sizes. 2. Intarsia. Much easier than it looks. 3. One can certainly get by with a little help from one's friends. I could not have finished this sweater without the invaluable tips from Erica. Thanks Erica!!! Here is an obligatory dancing photo a la Becky. I think this calls for celebration.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 5:45:00 PM ----- BODY:

Go West Young Man - Stitches West that is! Yes folks, I spent a very satisfying day wandering in a fibery bliss at Stitches West in Oakland. I drove two hours in anxious anticipation of meeting some fellow knit-bloggers for breakfast at Jack's Bistro. It was such a pleasure to be in the company of so many creative and talented ladies. Left to right is Hedi, Mariko's friend, Yvette a four-year veteran of Stitches West, Super Eggplant Mariko, Rachael of My Glass House, and Elizabeth of runonsentences Once breakfast was over, it was off to the Market! For those of us who were not registered as students, we had to stand in line for about 40 minutes just to get in the door! Ah, we can finally see the ticket booth. It was amazing to see so many creative garments and accessories all in one place - that was just on the attendees! And you KNOW they were all hand-made. Then there were the vendor booths. All I can say is WOW! Elizabeth and I wandered around together, admitting that we were just a bit overwhelmed. Occasionally we would bump into Rachael. Here we are at the Yarn Lady's stash diving frenzy. After about three hours of drinking in all the wonders of the Market, we met up for lunch. We were joined by Red Silvia and Joanna of J Strizzy. Once lunch was over, it was time to SHOP! Here is the yarn and pattern for a ponch-ette. It's a sign of a good sales person when you can strike up a conversation, end up trying on some of their sample garments, then walking off with your purchase. And yes, that's Ally-Do's hind end sitting on my pattern. Of course I couldn't resist casting on and knitting a couple of inches when I got home. I just can't seem to resist shiny, sparkly pretties and I bought a ball of S. Charles Ritratto to knit a pair of fingerless mitts. If you look really close, you can see two buttons, which will be used a wrist closures. It is quite wonderful when you are standing in a booth admiring a beautiful stole or wrap or sweater only to realize that you're standing next to the designer! I bought two more patterns just from having conversations with these talented women (and I just happen to have the yarn in my stash - hehe). Rant on...The only negative experience was at one booth where I was admiring a v-neck pullover with interesting ribbed shaping and I asked to see the pattern. The sales woman seemed a bit relunctant, but finally produces said pattern. When I determined that it would fit my dimensions, I asked to purchase said pattern. "Oh, we only sell the patterns with yarn purchase." Uh, OK. So we walk over to the bin with the specified yarn. Each skein was $21.00 and I would need 17 skeins for my size! She then reminded me that the patterns were not sold separately. Oh yeah. No thank you you snooty little yarn sales person...Rant off. So I pulled into my driveway after 12 hours of total fibery bliss, despite snooty yarn lady. Boy did I sleep well that night! Tomorrow - ROSEDALE!

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 5:09:00 PM ----- BODY:

Foiled! Rosedale had been taking shape steadily with no real obstacles – that is until the collar. Because I chose not to knit the corrugated ribbing, the collar would be a straight K2, P1 rib – easy right? Not! For some reason I just can’t seem to make the increases work. I suppose with the corrugated ribbing the changes in color would help in visualizing where to knit and where to purl. In total frustration I emailed Erica over at Smiling Tiger, who also knitted a gorgeous Rosedale out of Silk Garden, for some words of wisdom. She responded with: “…if you follow the instructions exactly, it will come out with that lovely v-stripiness in the picture. (It should work that way for plain ribbing as it does for corrugated.) I did have to rip the collar back once and rethink the whole thing, myself. So I guess my words of wisdom would just be - follow the instructions word for word, even if they don't look like they're going to work out. And good luck!” So that’s what I did, follow the pattern increases word for word. And it still didn’t look right. Of course I have been stewing over this predicament and have come to the conclusion that my problem may lie in each following row and working back across the increases. See in the pattern, Amy gives instructions for rows 1, 3, 5, 7, etc. leaving the even rows to be knit (I’m assuming) in pattern. Unfortunately, my old brain can’t seem to wrap itself around this concept. So, I’ve sent an SOS off to the Indigirl herself in hopes she can set me straight. Now to go frog my third collar attempt…

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 1:25:00 PM ----- BODY:

Progress! I'm about to begin the collar, then the zipper facings. Woo hoo! Can't talk now - gotta knit!

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 10:47:00 PM ----- BODY:

In Loving Memory of Aunt Mary August 22, 1929 - February 7, 2004 I've spent the last several days running the gamut of emotions from the highs of reconnecting with cousins to the lows of loosing a beloved aunt. There is so much tumbling around in my head regarding priorities, regrets, hope, and love. I'm tired now having just returned from a whirl wind trip to Southern California. I was able to knit a few rows on Rosedale, but not enough to warrant a photo. I do have an FO! Here is my lovely sister modeling her birthday scarf.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 10:23:00 PM ----- BODY:

Rosedale is taking on a life of her own... I've attached the sleeves and have begun the raglan decreases. I opted out of inserting the intarsia rectangle on the back. After nearly 50 years a Sacramento institution is closing its doors. Ben Franklin is going out of business so I took a trip downtown to take advantage of the sale prices. Everything was pretty much picked clean (in the knitting section particularly); however, I was able to snatch up the last of their Lion Brand Kool Wool and Microspun. I also loaded up on beading supplies and buttons. Do I see some beaded stitch markers in my future? Knit on!

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 5:22:00 PM ----- BODY:

Figures...
Anne Rice is writing your life. Go you goth girl,
go.

Which Author's Fiction are You?
brought to you by Quizilla A testament to my dark side.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 4:52:00 PM ----- BODY:

Obsession is my middle name! Rosedale is half-way done and it's only been a week. I haven't been this excited about a project in a long, long time. Being a fairly slow knitter, plodding along on projects at a snail's pace, I can only attribute the quick formation of this garment to obsessive/compulsive knitting. Here's the progress so far. And here's a close up of the intarsia rectangle. Both Rachael and Erica asked in my comments, what Noro Silk Garden colorway I was using. It is #50. A beautiful blend of pink/fuschia/brown, blue/turquois/green, and yellow/mustard. Who would have thought - but it works!!! And I got a comment from the Indigirl herself - Amy, the creative genius behind this wonderful pattern. Amy suggested that if my dpns didn't arrive in time, I could always do a provisional cast on for the sleeves, and then knit them down to the cuffs. Thanks for the tip Amy; however, I didn't read your comment until I finished the first sleeve. I acutally ended up knitting the ribbing flat, then joining in the round and continuing up the sleeve. I will seam the ribbing closed when finishing. Ally wants me to make a matching doggie coat.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 5:02:00 PM ----- BODY:

To the exclusion of all else knitty, I have been working exclusively on Rosedale. So what if my sister’s birthday was last Tuesday and her unfinished scarf is sitting in the bottom of my knitting bag. So what if my husband’s overcoat looks naked without the promised birthday scarf. So what if I lost interest in my daughter’s acid green boa scarf. I am having a love affair with Rosedale in the Garden of Noro Silk. I am so enamoured with Silk Garden and Rosedale does such a wonderful job of showing off the color changes. Here’s a photo of my progress. And here’s a close-up of the beginning of the intarsia rectangle. Look mom, I’m doing intarsia! Because I didn’t have any size 6 double points on hand, I ended up casting on for the body of the sweater first; however, I’ll have to stop at the yoke because you can’t go on until you have a sleeve to insert. Hopefully, by the time the double points arrive in the mail, I’ll be ready to start on the sleeves.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 4:16:00 PM ----- BODY:

I discovered this site, via Pickle Juice, while clicking around the knit blogs. It brings up a list of US states, plus DC and you check the states you’ve visited. As you can see from my map, I’ve got the West/Southwest pretty much locked up. About every two or three years during the summer months, my Dad would load me, my mom and the dog in the car and make the pilgrimage either to Wyoming, or Oklahoma (sometimes both), from whence my parents migrated. I can remember long stretches of highway, the smell of spilled coffee, the blare of the radio giving the baseball play by play, visiting elderly aunts, eating Uncle Sunny’s elk steaks and spitting out the buck shot. I didn’t include Illinois or Louisiana, although I suppose you could say I was technically there. I accompanied my parent on a business trip to Chicago when I was about 3. Evidently, I went to the movie theater and slept through Doctor Zivago. Oh yeah, I also had a stopover at O’Hare on my way back from Pennsylvania. I also visited New Orleans with my parents when I was about 5 or 6. Growing up in San Francisco, I was lucky if I visited, let alone swam in, a swimming pool once per year. I can remember this was the first time I had ever seen people swimming at night! I spent three months in Pennsylvania when I worked for FEMA. I was there from January to March and it was quite a shock to this California gal. I remember the first morning I saw snow falling, I showed up at breakfast and was gushing about how magical the snowfall was. The locals could only smirk behind their menus. I suppose you could say I’ve been to New Jersey. While sightseeing in Philadelphia, I took a wrong turn and ended up on the other side of the river. Eh, that doesn’t count. I would love to add New York, Alaska, and Washington DC to the list.
create your own visited states map or check out these Google Hacks.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 9:00:00 PM ----- BODY:

And the winner is... Rosedale! As many of you know, I am determined to slay the sweater demon and knit myself a garmet that I can wear in public. I had purchased some beautiful Noro Silk Garden for my birthday, so I spent quite a bit of time searching and swatching for the right pattern. It was quite funny, here I was frantically looking for my Rosedale pattern that I printed off at work - after about a half hour of searching, I thumped myself on the head - here I was in the same room with my new state-of-the-art computer with internet connection (albiet slow dial-up) and access to knitty.com 24/7. So I just scooted up to the computer, dialed up and printed me another copy of Rosedale. I actually had to go down two needle sizes because I'm such a loose woman (ha!). The corrugated rib eluded me, so I opted for straight K2, P1 ribbing. Here's a picture of the first 1 1/2" out of the 3" ribbing. I was puttering around the house on Saturday and I saw Ally growling and shaking her doggie toy in a typical doggie frenzy. The growling went on for quite a while and I wandered into the living room to find a ball of my Silk Garden strewn throughout the room! Nooooooooo!!!!! Yeah, doesn't she look contrite? Take care my blogging buddies.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 10:47:00 AM ----- BODY:

Girl Interrupted Ten years ago this week, I was admitted to the County hospital for suicidal tendencies. It was a very dark time and a long road to healing, but looking back now, I thank God I did not succeed in my intentions.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 4:06:00 PM ----- BODY:

I walked into Borders the other day and what did I see? Why this new book by Robert Jordan! New Spring, The Novel. This is the prequel (apparently the first of three) to the Wheel of Time series. If you don't know already, I am a huge fan of sci-fi and fantasy and I was absolutely thrilled to see this book. Of course I snatched it up right away and whisked the book home. I am nearly done and my faith has been restored in the series. The last three or so books in the series (10 so far) have moved the story along at a snail's pace. I have read this series through twice despite the "transitional" nature of some of the books. Anyway, if any of you knit-bloggers out there have read the series, I would love to hear your thoughts and theories on what's happening. Now back to your regularly scheduled knitting content. Here's a pic the finished commissioned scarf for my friend Karen. It's knit from a bluey-gray Adriafil Stars and a burguncy eyelash held together. Quick knit on size 13's. I have ripped my husband's birthday scarf four times now and am about to give up on this yarn. Back to the drawing board. Looks like I'll just have to go stash diving for another yarn that is "manly" enough for him. I'm still perusing patterns for my Noro Silk Garden pull-over or cardie for ME, ME, ME! I should start swatching any day now. Woo Hoo! Knit on my blogging buddies!

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 1:55:00 PM ----- BODY:

In anticipation of joining the Purling Puppy Webring (approval pending), I thought I would post a picture of my purling puppy! Here is Ally Doo posing with the Ice Princess Boa "Simply Mahvalous Darling!"

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 5:32:00 PM ----- BODY:

As I have alluded to, I have fallen off the yarn diet big time! Here are a few of my new acquisitions: This is a 10-pak of Noro Silk Garden Color 65. I have promised myself that I would conquer the sweater demon and knit myself a garmet this year. I am on the hunt for a pattern. Any suggestions? I absolutely love hand-painted yarns and Over the Rainbow Yarns is one of my favorites. On the top we have 600 yards of a lucious silk/merino blend in Mary Ann's Midnight colorway. On the bottom is 500 yards of Twinkle Toes wool in her Jewel colorway. There is another eBay store that I have been clicking around in for several months, and I finally decided to buy some yarn. These were purchased from Textile Design Art and I must say their yarns are pretty lucious too. On top we have a thick/thin Labrador wool in the Clara colorway. In the middle is a Texas mohair/wool blend in the Yukon colorway. And lastly we have a British mohair in the Riviera colorway. I have also added to my stash of novelty yarns, but I won't bore you with the particulars, but suffice it to say, there are some glitzy, fuzzy, sparkley scarves in the future (next Christmas probably) or I may incorporate them into some throws and/or shawls I have in mind. I have four more scarves to finish before I can close the door on "scarfing" this season. My coworker commissioned a fuzzy/sparkley scarf, which I completed this last weekend (photo to come), my sister's birthday is coming up fast and I need to crank out another fancy scarf for her, my friend Anna has been waiting patiently for her commissioned scarf knit from GGH Fee, and my husband is waiting for his birthday scarf (which I have ripped out three times 'cause I can't find the right fit for pattern and yarn). So there you have it - confessions of a yarn addict. Knit On!

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 4:38:00 PM ----- BODY:

This may seem petty or inconsequential to some, but I feel the need to put it out there. Public Restroom Etiquette! Here are some pet peeves of mine. * When there is a whole line of empty stalls and someone takes the one right next to yours. * People who don’t use the toilet seat paper covers. * People who don’t wash their hands after using the toilet (eeewww). * Pubic hair on the toilet seat (double eeewww!). * Pee splatter on the toilet seat (triple eeewww!). * People who take a perfunctory swipe under the water facet and shake their hands dry (no soap!). * People who open the restroom door with wet hands. * People who splatter the whole counter when using the sink (we’ll at least they’re washing their hands) but don’t wipe it up. * People who talk on their cell phones while doing the doo. * I don’t know about you, but I always feel uncomfortable holding a conversation with a co-worker while sitting on the pot (of course this doesn’t count in your own home; I can talk farts with the best of them!). * One of the women in the office across the hall always hangs a plastic grocery bag with her sanitary products on the knob of the sanitary product dispenser. Some months she even stacks them precariously on top of the dispenser. Folks, this is a PUBLIC restroom. Well now that I got that off my chest, I have to go down the hall.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 8:47:00 PM ----- BODY:

You know what a house refinance means? A home computer system (among other things)!!!! Yes, knitti-me is now wired for sight and sound. No more covertly blogging from work - woo hoo!! I am going to have to trade in this slow dial up with DSL though. Look what the mail carrier brought me! It's some beaded row counters made by the lovely Bron. Pretty, yet practical - that's the way I like it. Please excuse the blurry photo. I've also been knitting off and on. After the craft show and Christmas push, I've been taking a bit of a break. However, here is what I call my "Cold Mountain" scarf. I knitted this scarf while at the cinema; I went into the movie with a pair of needles and a ball of wool and came out with this great scarf! I've also fallen off the yarn diet wagon big time - but more on that later...

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 1:48:00 PM ----- BODY:

The first weekend of 2004 was a blast! My brother hosted a two-day family event at his house. We flew our other brother and his family down from Portland, OR and the rest of us descended on Brentwood, from various points in California. All told, we had 26 bodies crammed into my brother’s house for a weekend of laughs, hugs, singing, games, food and fellowship. I was able to get some knitting in too. Each family unit brought a unique gift to the gathering. My oldest brother, wife and youngest daughter brought the gift of music. My sister brought the gift of family lore, by telling some our family’s most treasured stories. My other brother’s family brought hand-made cards with sentiments written inside for each family member present. My husband, kids and I also brought gifts for each family unit. Here are our gifts to my family spread out on the kitchen table. My husband and daughter did a wonderful job decorating the wrapping in a pretty leaf motif. What’s inside? The official Niles-side 2004 calendar with each family member’s birthday and anniversary listed. Remember I spent the day after Thanksgiving going through all my mom’s boxes of old family photographs? Well, I picked out my 12 favorites and compiled a calendar. I call it my gift of administration because it also has all our contact information (email addresses, cell phone numbers, mailing addresses, etc.) included. This is the month of December with my dad and my Uncle Ed on top of the Empire State Building in 1943. There’s just something about a man in a nice wool trench coat and fedora. My mom also celebrated her 79th birthday and for a gift I enlarged a photo and had it matted and framed. This is my mom and dad in 1946, young and in love. Yes, 2004 is certainly off to a great start!

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 3:54:00 PM ----- BODY:

I hope each and every one had a wonderful Christmas holiday. My mom drove into town Christmas Eve and spent Christmas morning with us opening presents and eating Christmas brunch. Then I drove her to the airport Christmas afternoon so she could fly to Tulsa for her nephew’s 50th wedding anniversary celebration. Once mom was dispatched, my husband, kids and I had a day of family fellowship by reading the Christmas story, taking a Christmas nap, snacking on Christmas goodies, playing board games, watching movies, and generally lazing around. And what did Santa bring knitti-me, you may ask? Well, let me show you. This, my friends is the Stitch ‘n Bitch by Debbie Stoller and Weekend Knitting by Melanie Falick. I spent several hours browsing these two volumes. In my stocking, amid cavity- and calorie-inducing bon bons, was this little treasure. Knitting: History, Fashion, and Great Knitting Yarns. It’s hard to see, but little ditty is only about 3 ½” x 2 ¾” with a precious yarn and needle charm attached to the ribbon bookmark. And what’s that I see in the mirror? Why it’s a new digital camera! Woo Hoo! Being without a home computer, I still have to run to the photo shop and get the images scanned onto a disk, but at least now I can preview the photos. I also received some wonderful gift certificates to the LYS, the Bead Shoppe (thank you Karin!), and to a day of pampering at a day spa. And Sponge Bob also stopped by to wish everyone a Merry Christmas. FO’s I finally finished the Berries & Cream Boa, which I have kept for myself. I also finished this scarf knit from Colinette’s Chicago wool in the Copperbeach colorway. I think I’ll be keeping this one too. WIP What’s that green creature lying on my windowsill? Why it’s my daughter’s boa! It’s knit from these two yarns; Adraiful Stars in lime and an eBay purchase (I think its Ironstone). Ally sends best wishes for a Happy New Year!

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 3:49:00 PM ----- BODY:

This Christmas season I do not want to leave you with a ranting monologue on inconsiderate birthday practices. Therefore, I would like to share this Christmas poem with you. Keeping Christmas, By Verna S. Teeuwissen Is Christmas the smell of evergreen, The jingle of bells on a sleigh; Is Christmas the laughter of children, The greeting of friends in the way? Is Christmas the lighting of candles, The hanging of wreaths on the door; Is Christmas the welcome of loved ones? Yes, Christmas is this, and more. For Christmas echoes from angels Its message of peace, good will; And Christmas tells of a manger On a calm Judean hill, Where shepherds bowed and worshipped As God incarnate slept, And it's only as we kneel with them That our Christmas is truly kept. May your holiday festivities be filled with laughter, love, and joy. With love and goodwill, —Marie

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 5:31:00 PM ----- BODY:

Today is my baby boy's 13th birthday! Yes folks, 13 years ago tonight I had my firstborn child delivered (after 32 hours of labor with a cesarean on top of it!). HAPPY BIRTHDAY PRECIOUS GABRIEL! WARNING: Today's post will contain some ranting on my part. Being a December birthday girl, I promised myself I would never subject my children to the December Birthday Syndrome (hi, here's your birthday AND Christmas present in one...Uh, gee thanks...). Unfortunately, I suffered a miscarriage at 20 weeks prior to becoming pregnant with my dear son; so the timing got thrown off and I ended up having a sweet baby boy at Christmas time. (I did get it right with my daughter, however. She was born in the Spring.) Well, since I wasn't going to give back my baby, I then determined not to have him regret having a December birthday. One's thirteenth birthday is pretty momentous in my book, so we planned a fun celebration. We would invite 10 boys and go see The Lord of the Rings (LOTR): The Return of the King at a Sunday matinee then return to the house for pizza, cake, games, and presents. Then the boys were going to hook up their game systems and have a video game marathon into the night. Who raised these boys? Or more specifically, who raised the boy's parents? We hand made our LOTR birthday invites which Gabriel passed out at school and church. We clearly noted to RSVP by Thursday. By Friday, we still had no response, but husband felt we should purchase the tickets as they were selling out fast. I then got on the phone and was able to track down 6 of the 10 kids, 2 couldn't make it, but 4 boys said they would be there. Out of the 12 tickets purchased, we were able to give 3 away to (adult) friends at church and were fortunately able to scalp the remaining three at the theater (1 boy even didn't show up we're still waiting for a phone call). So at least we broke even with the tickets. LOTR was wonderful by the way. We returned home for pizza and presents. NOT ONE BOY BROUGHT A BIRTHDAY PRESENT. However, one kid brought a card - A CHRISTMAS CARD - where he wrote "happy birthday." Isn't it usually understood that if a child is invited to a birthday party (actually taken care of during the afternoon and evening on the Sunday before Christmas so the parents can get in some last minute shopping), treated to a blockbuster movie, fed, then hooked up to video gaming machines for a night of sensory overload, wouldn't you expect a gift in return? I am the type of person to try and see the other side of the story and make excuses for oversights in etiquette (oh, it's such a busy time of year, money is in short supply because I just had to buy that fruitcake for Aunt Ethel). But not this time baabee! I'm angry! It's not that difficult to pick up the phone and say that you can/can't make it. How hard would it be to add another present to your shopping basket? My son handled the whole situation pretty well and I'm sure the $90+ I spent in video games and accessories took the sting out of the boy's (or more accurately, the boy's parents) thoughtlessness.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 5:00:00 PM ----- BODY:

List Thyself… I was talking with my friend the other day and we were saying that one of hardest things to do is be honest with yourself. However, ever since that conversation I have been pondering why I am so afraid of self-examination. Who is Marie? That’s what I want to find out. But how do I embark on such a journey? I was wandering through Borders on my lunch break today and picked up List Your Self; Listmaking as the Way to Self-Discovery, by Segalove and Velick. Wow! Could this be the jumping off point for my journey? The back cover said the following: “Listmaking is easier than journaling because you don’t have to pour your heart out, record your days, or pass judgment [besides, journaling is too unstructured for me]. One list leads to another and before you know it, you’re on a playful yet profound excursion into your past, present and future—to places filled with self-discovery and awareness.” As I was reading the Introduction, several phrases jumped out at me. “For some reason, we love to ignore who or what we really are…List Your Self unlocks the door to your personal identity. It’s an easy, provocative, and liberating opportunity to get to know yourself…Once you start, you’ll suddenly discover an inventory of personal secrets, fears, and desires that flow out effortlessly and surprise you. You’ll feel liberated from the unspoken and the unwritten…List Your Self might seem like a literary Pandora’s box, and it is, but in the best sense. Full of life, good and bad. Full of you.” As I move into my 40th year, I am embarking on a journey of self-discovery (good and bad). And what will be my first list? List all the qualities you love about being human. I think I can handle that. **** On the knitting front… In General I am working on several commissioned scarves. In Particular A neon orange fuzzy scarf (that’s what they asked for, that’s what they’re getting).

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 5:51:00 PM ----- BODY:

Can’t talk long, but the Craft Boutique was very fun and very much a success! I was able make just over $300.00 for my Nicaragua Trip – so Woo Hoo! I made some fun trades too! * Two beautiful hand-painted silk scarves traded for my felted River Rock Booga Bag and * Two pairs of beaded earring and one beaded necklace for one of my wooly scarves. I was also able to spend badcat Karin’s wonderful birthday gift of $20.00 on another beautiful hand-beaded necklace. Pix soon - I hope! We just refinanced our home and the cash-out wasn’t as much as we had hoped for so there’s no telling how long it will be before I become the proud owner of a digital camera (or home computer for that matter). I’m also wondering if there’s a bonus in my future. So far there is no evidence or rumors that my review is in the works, so there’s a bit of “cage pacing” while I wait. Have a great evening!

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 1:07:00 PM ----- BODY:

Thank you so much for your birthday wishes. I had a most excellent birthday weekend. Spending your birth day at work isn't so bad when a co-worker buys you lunch (thanks Natashia), your knitting buddy gives you $20 to spend at the upcoming craft boutique, you get to take an hour and a half off to go to get your hair done, you receive flowers and candy from your husband, and your employer gives you a $60 gift certificate to the LYS! Not bad at all! Saturday the celebrating continued by taking a trip up Hwy 50 towards Lake Tahoe and spending the day in Placerville, a quaint Northern California foothills gold town. While son was dropped off at the movie theater, husband and daughter dropped me off at the not so local yarn store, Lofty Lou's. I was able to spend nearly two hours browsing, fondling and taking in all the yarney goodness. They had a lot of knit up samples and sale items that really got my wheels turning. I ended up purchasing yarn for 5 commissioned scarves (to be knit after the craft boutique on Wednesday and before Christmas Eve - of course!). I really had no stash yarn to use on these scarves as they were very specific requests - aw shucks! The rest of the afternoon was spent browsing the stores up and down Main Street and eating at a cute little cafe. We then picked up son and headed down the hill. I was able to get in a birthday nap and then get up in time to dress for "An Evening in December" musical extravaganza at the Memorial Auditorium. This show is fabulous and a great kick off to the Christmas Season. Sunday afternoon was spent finishing up some more boutique scarves, and pricing and tagging each item. I took Monday off work with the intent of getting the living room ready for tree decorating, but unfortunately I had to deal with the "M" in PMS and felt pretty puny so I spent most of the whole day curled up on the sofa with a hot water bottle watching movies and home and garden shows. Tonight we set up for the boutique, then tomorrow evening the doors open at 6:30 p.m. Where: Charr's House - 2115 26th Street, Sacramento, California (btwn U & V Streets) When: Wednesday, December 10, 2003 - 6:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. "Come on over and check out my first "real" craft boutique where you'll find a crafty group of Sacramento-area artisans who have created wonderful hand-made items ready to satisfy anyone on your gift list. Please stop in for a little visit, a little shopping and loads of holiday cheer in the form of warm smiles, contagious laughter and delicious refreshments. Some of the hand-crafted items include Karin's colorful quilted items, Bruce and his delightful wirework for the home or garden, Cori and her glass and crystal hand beaded jewelry, Charr's hand-painted scarves and jewelry, and of course my luscious knitted items . Hope to see you there!" Knit on my blogging buddies!

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 11:49:00 AM ----- BODY:

IT'S MY BIRTHDAY! And here I am realizing I am one step closer to 40. Yes folks, I'm 39 today. I recieved a wonderful e-card from my sister with the following notation: "Happy birthday to my precious "REE"!! May you float through this special day on clouds of love and special wishes from all those dear to you. You are one in a million and I thank God for blessing me with the sister I had prayed for all those years! Can you feel the love in your circle of life?? Enjoy your Day! All my love, Vicki. "P.S. Don't trouble yourself with listening for the step of the UPS man on the stair...He is not coming for you! My sincere apologies for the lapse of protocol this year...Please feel free to visit me in the (mental) hospital. Your presence at my bedside will be most soothing." No, she hasn't been committed yet. On the knitting front I am manically knitting away on last minute boutique scarves and boas. Here are the scarves thus far. Here I am in a less manic moment modeling my Shape It! scarf from Sally Melville's The Knit Stitch. I'll leave you today with a pressie pic. It's actually badcat Karin's b-day gift (psst, her birthday is on Monday, go by and say "hi!").

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 11:00:00 AM ----- BODY:

Boutique Knitting! Here’s the count so far: 4 Boas (Chili Peppers, Flamingo Fantasy, Rainbow Sorbet, and Clown Barf) 10 Scarves 3 Buttonhole Scarves 1 Scarflet using this Berroco pattern 6 Adult-sized hats (5 of which have matching scarves) 1 Baby-sized hat 3 Felted Drawstring Pouches with handmade wire bead closures 1 Felted Booga Bag On the needles: ~Berries & Cream Boa; ~Another Boa knit from Adriafil Stars and Ironstone’s Desert Flower novelty yarns; and ~Another Scarf knit from Colinette’s Chicago wool in the Copperbeach colourway (this scarf may also have a matching hat in its future) I’m also planning on churning out three or four more scarflets. Knit ON!

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 12:18:00 PM ----- BODY:

I had a very nice, very laid back Thanksgiving weekend. The family and I drove down to my sister's house (about 3 hours) Thanksgiving morn. When we were about half way there, my mom called the cell saying to come over to her house rather than going straight to sister's house. Apparently poor sister was on the verge of a nervous breakdown. My sister is a perfectionist to a fault and pours herself into each task as if the fate of the world depended on her. While this trait is admirable, it also can kill you. My sis has been going through H*LL with a chauvantistic, micro-managing, "good old boys club" boss and had actually given her verbal 2 week's notice. The CEO (who is a personal friend of the "good old boys" boss and got him the job) begged her not to submit her written resignation yet as he wanted to investigate the situation. So "investigative interviews" were set up with each person in her department for Monday (yesterday). Needless to say, my sis was a nervous wreck and actually went to the hopsital the evening before Thanksgiving thinking she was suffering a heart attack. Well, her heart is fine, so they sent her home with some Xanex. Once the Thanksgiving table was set and nothing was burned, she began to sing opera and laugh hysterically! Of course I joined her in a rousing chorus of "Harvest Home." The pressure was off. She could sit back and enjoy the day with her family (maybe it had to do with a combination of wine and Xanex - hum). Anyway it all turned out - it always does. Still haven't spoken with sister to get the scoop on the "investigative interviews," but will try to track her down sometime today. Friday I spent a bitter-sweet afternoon going through all my mom's old photographs. It was quite a journey coming across photos of my beloved dad and wonderful grandma through the years and missing them desparately. My goal to archive many of the photos, especially the old black and whites, on CD for posterity. We have photos as far back as the early 1900's just thrown in a box! Right now I am focusing on my mother's side of the family 1920-1940. In knitting news I got three hours of uninterrupted knitting time in the car! I was able to knit up a garter stitch scarf from Ironstone wool and Crystal Place Fizz in varigated shades of green and purple - very pretty. The rest of the Thanksgiving weekend was knit-less (what's up with that?). Perhaps I just needed a break. I have since started a matching hat to the Ironstone/Fizz scarf. In Frog Pond News I ripped back the Clown Barf Boa and reknit it on smaller needles. The fabric was turning out too holey for my tastes. I received the extra Colinette Boucle for the Berries and Cream Boa, but it just wasn't right So I ripped that baby out too. I've decided to carry the Berrocco Chincilla all the way through (as I have plenty of that) and alternate the Colinette Isis and Boucle. It will give the boa a slightly different look, but still nice. The craft boutique is 8 days away! EEEK! I'm not quite sure how many scarves and hats I have - must go home and count tonight. I also have to begin pricing the items. I need to finish both Clown Barf and Berries & Cream - oh, and the Fizz hat. I would like to make three more scarves. Don't know if I can churn out one more boa though - we'll see. Sorry this seem to be a "fly by the seat of your pants" post, I've been rambling... But the rain has stopped, the sun is out, and I have some fun projects on the needles - it's a beautiful day. (Now I just have to get out of this work thing...) Knit On!

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 5:16:00 PM ----- BODY:

I only have two WIP's at the moment (more to be added tonight!). The first is the Berries & Cream Boa. As I mentioned before, this is knit from Berrocco Chinchilla, Colinette's Isis and Colinette's Boucle. I realized that I did not have enough Boucle to finish the project so I contacted all my Colinette sources for Boucle #121 (Sunrise). Unfortunately, not one of them had that particular colorway in stock (curses!). However, I did order a corresponding colorway (Summer Berries) that should work. So this boa is currently stalled on the needles. The other WIP is this really fun boa knit from Adriafil Stars Print and a varigated Rayon from Classic Elite. My husband said this boa looks like clown threw up (teehee). Ladies and Gentlemen, I give you -- the Clown Barf Boa! FO's are abounding but I only have the WIP photo for show and tell. Here is a wonderful accessory scarf knit from GGH Fee yarn in a pretty ice blue with metallic silver slubs. I finished the Shape It! scarf from The Knit Stitch last night (the extra ball of Dune arrived in the mail yesterday). I was going to add this scarf to my boutique scarves, but I wore this to work today and love it too much. I'm going to keep for myself. Lastly, here is my second Bucket-o-Chic. I knit it out of Lamb's Pride worsted. Up to this point, I have been felting primarily Noro Kureyon. Kureyon usually takes three to four wash cyclels before shrinking to the desired size. However, this Lamb's Pride surpised me by shrinking way too much just in 12 minutes! As a result I have a midget Bucket-o-Chic. I don't even know if it will fit a child/baby as I haven't had any little ones around to try it on. I will be seeing my great neice and nephew this weekend so I can determine if I have a child's size or baby doll size hat. I wish each and every one of you a Thanksgiving full of fellowship, food and fun. —Marie

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 4:09:00 PM ----- BODY:

Finished Objects! First up we have a duo of scarves. On the left is Christina's Scarf knit in the wonderful GGH Fee yarn in fuzzy brown with metalic gold slubs. On the right is the Jelly Belly Scarf knit out of a thick/thin handpainted wool in seed stitch. Next is a scarf knit out of Berrocco Furz with a carry-a-long eyelash of metalic reds and golds. And here is the lovely Barbara modeling her new scarf. Here are a couple of Hat/Scarf Combo's. The red combo is a button-hole scarf and hat knit from the beloved Tahki Viva yarn. I had actually finished the buttonhole scarf several months ago with the intention of knitting a matching hat. So last night during Survivor (poor Rupert), I whipped up the hat. The blue combo is knit from Crystal Palace's Splash and Lion Brand's Micro-Spun alternated every two rows. And lastly, here is the elusive Tasha. Not to get her confused with 18 year old Precious Betsy. Confusing when you have two black cats... Have a great weekend everybody!

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 3:00:00 PM ----- BODY:

I’m here, don’t worry. I’ve been trying to get a handle on my desk at work, so have not been blogging. Desk is still in chaos, so, what the hay, I’ll blog. I have been knitting up a storm on my off hours. Still in boutique knitting mode, focusing mostly on scarves. I will need to start knitting some hats too and maybe a couple more purses or pouches. The boutique is set for December 10th . I had a wonderful, relaxing day last Saturday. It was a cold and drizzelly day and I spent the whole day in my pajamas watching movies and knitting. I finally got showered a dressed around 4:30 p.m., just in time to attend badcat Karin’s housewarming party. (Woo Hoo Karin!) During my lazy day I knitted the Shape It! Scarf from Sally Melville’s The Knit Stitch only to discover I only had two balls of Trendsetter Dune instead of the required three. So now it is languishing in my pending pile awaiting the third ball to arrive in the post. (Does this constitute a lapse in my yarn diet? I confess I couldn’t resist adding several balls of undyed Loopi wool at 25% off for a future dying project. Bad girl…) I’ve started and finished several scarves, which would be pretty boring to describe them all to you here, so you’ll just have to wait for the pictures. Perhaps I’ll get by bootay in gear and have a photo shoot tonight. I attended my first Knitting Meet Up here in Sacramento last night. I was finally able to meet the lovely HappyGoodLuck Lori (hi Lori!) and several other talented ladies. Knit On my blogging buddies!

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 5:56:00 PM ----- BODY:

AAARRRGGGGHH! I have fallen off the wagon BIG time. I had put myself on a self-imposed yarn fast in August. I did fairly well until just recently when my girlfriend commissioned a scarf (Barbara’s black with hints of red and gold scarf). Believe it or not, I had no suitable yarn in the stash for such a specific request. So on to the Internet I went. The ordered yarn arrived and wasn’t quite what I was looking for so into the stash it went. A trip to the LYS was in order, which coincidentally was holding a Divorce Sale. Of course I couldn’t let all that fabulous yarn go to waste (not at 60% off, NO WAY). The bingeing continued as I won an auction of Colinette yarn on eBay (thank God I was outbid on the Noro Silk Garden). Then today, after an extremely stressful staff meeting, I returned to the LYS for some yarn therapy. Nearly $80.00 later I am smuggling the new yarn into the house and stuffing it deep into the back of my yarn closet. My name is Marie and I am a yarn addict! So it’s “No yarn for you!” *** On a more positive note, I have reclaimed my living room! The first step was taken several weeks ago when I move my yarn stash and craft supplies out and set up my yarn closet. (As an aside, we had our house appraised yesterday and the appraiser opened my closet and exclaimed, “Wow, who does the knitting?!” Needless to say she was very impressed with my stash. My husband, however, whisked her away before I could corner her to talk “shop.”) It took two days, but I ended up with a clean and organized living space. Next the kitchen! *** Not much knitting news to report. I have decided to turn my Booga Bag mishap (the Barney Blues Bag) into an origami type purse. I will be taking it with me to my Mom’s for Thanksgiving so we can collaborate on where to sew seams in order for the purse to keep it’s shape, etc. Of course with my yarn bingeing I have lots of yarn to fondle for inspiration. Knit On!

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 3:03:00 PM ----- BODY:

To all our Veterans who have served us well—Thank You! My Grandfather Roy Samuel Niles (1896-1979) U.S. Army Served during World War I—France My Grandmother Margaret Maude Niles Weideman (1900-1990) U.S. Army Served during World War II When her three boys were all fighting in World War II, she up and joined the Army at the age of 41! My Uncle Edward James Niles (1920-) U.S. Army Served during World War II—European Theatre My Uncle Lloyd Roderick Niles (1924-) U.S. Navy Served during World War II—Pacific Theatre My Father Ralph Raymond Niles (1923-1995) Merchant Marines—In times of war the Merchant Seamen are considered part of the armed forces. Served during World War II (Pacific Theatre) and The Korean War My father lost a ship, the Hobart Baker Liberty ship, on December 29, 1944 to a Japanese bomb. The Merchant Marines finally attained Veteran Status for their efforts during World War II in 1988. *** I was hoping to have accompanying photos of my family members in their uniforms, but alas I couldn’t find the album. No new knitting updates.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 5:50:00 PM ----- BODY:

Blogger ate my post…I had hoped I would never have to say that… Usually I work on my posts in Word and then copy them over to Blogger for publishing. However last Friday, I thought, “I’ve never had problems with Blogger, what the heck, I’ll just post straight from there.” Famous last words… Well today is a new day and I’m writing my post in Word – lesson learned. FO’s—I’ve been busy! The Icelandic Multi-directional scarf is done. I ended up doing a single crochet along the edge to give it a more finished look. The Jelly Belly Scarf is done! Christina’s commissioned scarf is done. This scarf is beautiful! It was knit from GGH “Fee” yarn in a fuzzy brown with metallic gold slubs. I also started and finished another commissioned scarf for my friend Barbara. She bought the Ice Princess Boa, which she affectionately called “The Dog.” This new scarf is dubbed “The Cat.” It was knit from Berrocco Furz in black with a metallic eyelash carry-along yarn in gold and red—really, really pretty. WIP’s—Keeping myself out of trouble! I felted the Barney Blues Booga Bag and I-cord and discovered I didn’t knit the sides high enough for the width of the bottom (it's kind of the shap of a shoe box). I’m going to consult with my knitting buddies badcat Karin and Natashia to see if I can’t make something useful out of it. I started another boa. Haven’t named it yet. I’m using three yarns: Colinette’s Boucle, Colinette’s Isis, and Berrocco’s Chinchilla. I am alternating the Isis and Chinchilla every two rows while carrying the Boucle straight through. I’m also about halfway through another novelty scarf knit from Crystal Palace’s Splash in the Denim colorway paired with Lion Brand’s Micro-Spun in a pretty blue. I am alternating each yarn every two rows. Mindless knitting, but very pretty. I started another Bucket-o-Chic out of Lamb’s Pride Worsted in a colorway called Strawberry Fields (I think). Anyway, it is a subtly variegated yarn in shades of red and pink. It should look fabulous felted. And lastly, for my commute knitting I am making another seed stitch six footer scarf out of a thick/thin hand-dyed yarn by Maryann Miller in her Deep Pool Colorway. I am trying to fill up my disposable camera with pictures of my FO’s and WIP’s. Hopefully, I can drop the film off at Wal-Mart soon. Today I want to leave you with a triangle scarf I knit out of Colinette’s Mohair in the Monet colorway. I threaded glass beads onto the yarn prior to knitting and randomly knit them into the fabric.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 4:03:00 PM ----- BODY:

All my bad restaurant stories have occurred at various Dennys throughout the US. That is until last Saturday. Husband and I went out for breakfast at the California Diner, which coincidentally used to be a Dennys. The place was busy, but not crazy. The waitress was never around when we needed her and she kept apologizing for everything, then turns around and blames everything on the kitchen staff and bus boys. And of course, our meals were not correct. Anyway, we choose not to order a beverage with our meals, "just water, thanks." Both my husband and I finished our glass of water and wanted a refill. We kept trying to get her attention, which she blatantly ignored. We even placed our glasses by the edge of the table as a visual for what we were requesting. Finally, short of tackling her in the aisle, we made our request known. "I'll be right back with your waters." Ten minutes ticks by, she actually walks by our table and mutters, "oh yeah, water." At long last, with water pitcher in hand, she arrives to fill our glasses with the following comment: "If you were dying of thirst, you'd be dead by now."

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 3:49:00 PM ----- BODY:

We had a pretty quiet weekend once we got Halloween out of the way Friday night. However, the kids were wired from all that candy. I did some more de-stashing by taking out all my Lion Brand yarn (Homespun, Kool Wool, Woolease, MicroSpun, etc.) and putting it in a sealed tub in the garage. I know, I've become such a yarn snob - I just love my hand-dyed and novelty yarns. However, I hope you did notice that I didn't give the Lion Brand yarn away, (couldn't bring myself to do that!). I still want to keep the yarn on hand for down and dirty projects, (i.e. garmets that can be machine washed, dog sweaters, kid's wear, etc.) Now my yarn closet is not so crammed and I can get a good gander at all those lovely yarns without balls and hanks spilling out into the hallway like a bunch of Tribbles Here are some finished objects: This is an accessory scarf I knitted last Spring out of Colinette's Wigwam cotton ribbon. Here is a photo of Autumnal-colored hat I knitted from the Kool Aid-dyed yarn my husband painted. Love IT! This is a hat and buttonhole scarf set I knit out of Tahki Viva yarn. Works in Progress: In case you were wondering, I am still in accessory knitting mode to build my stock for the craft boutiques coming up. Here is what I call the Jelly Belly Scarf. Ufortunately, the flash washed out the colors in the photo, but the color combination looks like a handful of Jelly Bellies. This yarn was handdyed by Danette Taylor and is knit in seed stitch. I am still plugging away on the Icelandic Multi-directional scarf and the I-Cord for the Barney Blues Booga Bag. The Wave/Shell Stole is still simmering on the back burner. A non-knitting friend at work commissioned a scarf after she saw some yummy GGH yarn I had bought at my LYS's Divorce Sale. I had bought the yarn to knit a scarf for myself, but now it will grace Christina's neck. I have about three more inches until cast off and then the fringe. It should be ready for her when she comes back to work on Wednesday. During my de-stashing on Saturday, I was able to put together a couple of yarn combinations to make two more boas-Yeah!

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 12:01:00 PM ----- BODY:

Happy Harvest Time Wishes! We had a Halloween decorating contest at work. Here are a couple of photos of my group's display. Badcat Karin's group got first place for a very original and fun display. The River Rock Bucket-o-Chic is done! I don't know if it's the yarn, my steaming or the felting process, but the brim turned out more flouncy than expected. It still looks good don't you think? Presenting the River Rock Ensemble! Have a great weekend everybody!

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 1:47:00 PM ----- BODY:

Excuse my ignorance, but what does "Mwahs" mean?

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 2:02:00 PM ----- BODY:

Thanks so much to everybody who stopped by to say, "Hi." It was fun to link back to find some great blogs. You guys ROCK! At long last here is a photo of the completed River Rock Bag (Booga J pattern). I had knit and felted this on vacation last August out of Noro Kureyon #80. Then the bag took a trip to my mom's for lining installation and then back home for grommets and handle. I love the rocket ship/space-themed lining. You can't see it in the photo, but there is a zippered pocket inside along with a heavy-duty snap for closure. When I knitted my Sunset Tote Bag out of 9 balls of Noro Kureyon #102, I found the I-cord strap was a bit "wonky." Even now, I am not crazy about the strap and I intend to replace it at some point. For the River Rock Back, as you can see, I used some nice black cording picked up at Wal-Mart. Here is a photo of my pre-felt Barney Blues Booga Bag. It was knit out of Noro Kureyon #31 (discontinued). I decided to tackle the Kureyon I-cord again. This time, however, I am doubling the yarn and so far it looks to be a bit more substantial and able to stand up to felting. Desert Knitter Jan asked how many skeins I used for the Sunset Tote I-cord. Unfortunately, I can't remember. However, I am keeping track with this current Barney Blues I-cord. Well, it looks like I'm ready for Halloween! Here is my pre-felted River Rock Bucket-O-Chic. It is knit from Noro Kureyon #80. Can't wait to see it felted! And lastly, the multi-directional Icelandic scarf WIP. Knit On!

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 2:19:00 PM ----- BODY:

I dropped Son and friend off at the movies and I am here at work--on a Saturday. However, instead of getting ahead of the game work-wise, I am surfing the knitting blogs. Went over to Bron's blog yesterday and read her Friday, October 24 post regarding blog comments versus the number of hits. Great conversation in her comments too. It brought up some food for thought: * Do we not leave comments because we feel what we have to say is not valid or funny or profound? * Are we just in too much of a hurry, the "read and run" syndrome, to take the time? * Are we fearful of commenter's remorse? * Are we intimidated because we don't "know" the blogger and feel like we are intruding? In my comment's to Bron I mentioned that I "boot up my computer each morning and anxiously check if I have comments. Most of my hits are probably me checking my own comments! I don't normally get a lot of comments and sometimes that makes me feel that what I have to say is not comment-worthy; however I will persevere and continue to chronicle my knitting life." Son just called. The movie is over so now it's off to Borders and GameStop. So much for getting any work done, but I did enjoy stopping by and reading some of my favorite blogs. Knit On my blogging buddies!

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 5:40:00 PM ----- BODY:

I should have known better... Well I participated in the Community Craft Fair and Garage Sale and not one hand-made item sold. I did, however, sell off a bit of my stash and some old pattern books, barely making my $20 booth fee. The people next to me made over $600. Selling what you ask? JUNK!. To add insult to injury, someone stole my Bonne Bell lip balm that was in the crocheted lip balm holder with matching scarf set (lip balm included with purchase). They just don’t get it... I know this conversation has gone around the knitting blogs often enough, but your average Joe or Jane just doesn’t understand the craftsmanship and time involved in handmade items. I have knit my scarves, boas and bags from high-end yarns, many of them hand-dyed – this is quality stuff. However, in the age of Targets, K-Marts and Wal-Marts, you just can’t compete. Unexpected blessing... Anyway, the day at the fair wasn’t a complete waste, and I actually had a good time. Have you ever had the experience of meeting someone and feel like you have been good friends forever? I had that experience on Saturday. Jaime and her mom had a booth of crocheted scarves embellished with beads along with some beautiful beaded jewelry. I couldn’t believe they were selling their beautiful six foot beaded scarves for $20! And I told them so. Jaime and I connected right away and spent several hours just talking. By the end of the day we had exchanged contact information and made plans to get together. Wow – that’s an experience you don’t get very often, if at all, and when it happens is such a cherished gift. Treasures... I was able to trade one of my felted party bags for one of Jaime’s beaded scarves and found a gorgeous beaded bracelet and earrings at another booth, thus spending any money I had made. Do not loose heart... There are still have a couple of exclusive craft shows that I will be participating in. These shows will be strictly made up of local artisans and those attending will appreciate the time and craftsmanship put into each item. Works in Progress... The Wave/Shell Stole had been put on the back burner while I whipped up some quicky hats and scarves for the craft fair. I hope to begin knitting on it again. Here’s a progress photo. Another Booga Bag is in the works. I broke down and purchased another 10 pack of Noro Kureyon in Color #31 (discontinued). I’ve finished the bottom and am about two inches up the sides. I am working on a Multi-Directional scarf knit in this gorgeous Icelandic wool hand-painted by Maryann Miller (lotus blossom on ebay). This is a quick knit with bulky yarn and size 15 needles. I will be working on a commissioned boa for my friend who bought the Ice Princess Boa. She requested a boa in black with hints of red and gold. Just got the yarn so I am ready to begin at any time. Well my friends, it is time for me to sign off. Have a good one!

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 2:02:00 PM ----- BODY:

Boa's Galore! When I first saw this pattern on ebay, I had to have it! Once received and begun, I realized how simple the pattern was. However, I did go down one needle size and made one small change to the pattern as to how I secured the loop. Using fabulous yarns, this simple pattern has great impact! First up we have The Chili Peppers Boa knit from Colinette's Isis (2 skeins) and Mohair (1 skein) yarns in fiery reds and oranges with splashes of yellow, green, brown and blue. My second boa, named The Ice Princess Boa, was knit from Colinette's Fandango (2 skeins) and Mohair (1 skein) yarns in bluey pinks and greys with splashes of green and white. This boa was sold even before it was off the needles. My girlfriend who bought the boa went to San Francisco last weekend and literally got stopped on the street by people inquiring after her fabulous accessory! The Purple Passion Boa was the next creation. This boa was knit from two skeins of Colinette's Fandango in a pretty lilac/purple color and Trendsetter's Dune (a mohair/metallic combo) color #94. I brought the boa in to work for Show & Tell and my boss kept eyeing it. Needless to say, she'll be wearing it to her son's football game tonight. The next boa was a total diversion from Colinette yarns. I knit this one up in Adriafil's Ibiza ribbon yarn paired with Crystal Palace's Fizz in variegated colors of orange mango, lime green, and raspberry red dubbed The Rainbow Sorbet Boa. And finally The Flamingo Fantasy Boa. This was knit out of Colinette's Fandango and an unknown mohair from the stash. This boa is a fun combination of pinks, oranges, and burgundies.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 1:19:00 PM ----- BODY:

badcat Karin came through with some photos! Here is a trio of scarves: Top left is the Adriafil Stars scarf. The color and look reminds me of steel wool, until you touch it and feel the fuzzy softness of the yarn. Bottom left is the Autumn Glory 6 foot scarf. On the right is the Flamingo Fantasy Boa!

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 11:58:00 AM ----- BODY:

Success! My stash has been successfully relocated to the hall closet. After clearing the closet and hauling two huge boxes off to the thrift store, I was able to determine the hall closet was indeed large enough to house my stash. Needless to say husband was happy not to be kicked out of the bedroom closet. In the process I took another stab at de-stashing and weeded out a boxful of yarn I knew I would never use. There are still a couple of areas to clean up in the livingroom, such as the “frog pond” and “UFO” pile, but major progress has been made. My ChicKami has gone into the frog pond. I took it off the needles and saw that it certainly was the circus tent tank and much too big for me (should I be flattered or get real and face up to the fact my gauge was off?). Anyway, will attempt again in the Spring. Sprout went the way of the frog pond too; just wasn’t a thrilling project for me anymore. In other knitting news, I will be participating in a craft fair this weekend and have been in production mode knitting scarves. In additional to the Purple Passion Boa (which has been sold by the way), I have finished the Rainbow Sorbet Boa and started and finished two more scarves – a 6 footer knit out of a thick/thin hand-dyed yarn in seed stitch (dubbed Autumn Glory) and a 5 foot sparkly bluey-grey scarf knit out of Adriafil-Stars. I am about halfway through another boa, this one knit out of Colinette’s Fandango and an unknown mohair. I named this one the Flamingo Fantasy Boa. Along with my hats, scarves, boas and felted bags, my Mom made some pretty pillows and a couple of aprons (from a vintage 1950's pattern) to sell at the craft fair. Hopefully, I will also be able to sell some of badcat’s fun and colorful quilted pillows and another friend’s hand-beaded jewelry and bookmarks. This fair is actually the “Community Craft Fair and Garage Sale” hosted by three local radio stations here in Sacramento. Therefore, it is not an exclusive craft fair per se, having garage/thrift store items and Mary Kay/Pampered Chef booths interspersed; however, I am confident a good crowd will gather. Photos to come soon – I promise!

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 11:18:00 AM ----- BODY:

After a gawd-awful work week and succumbing to a flu bug, Knitti-me spent her Saturday recouping on the sofa, napping, watching movies and knitting some. On Sunday she did peek inside the hall closet, screamed in horror, and ran from the house. “It’s just too much,” she panted. Tiffany wanted to know why I just didn’t put the stash in the hall closet. “Believe it or not, the stash is bigger than the hall closet,” I responded in Comments. I will take another stab at cleaning and reorganizing the closets next weekend when my tender psyche and general health are more fortified. Purple Passion is DONE! Woo HOO! And it looks fantastico. I started yet another boa. This one is knit out of Adriafil’s Ibiza Ribbon and Crystal Palace’s Fizz both in variegated colors of orange mango, lime green, and raspberry red. It has been dubbed the “Rainbow Sorbet Boa” by the project name diva, Natashia. Natashia is our fledgling knitter here at work and is making fine progress on her Booga Bag. And speaking of Woo Hoo, check out badcat Karin’s cabling foray! Knit On my friends!!!

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 11:11:00 AM ----- BODY:

Have no fear, knitti-me is still here! Since I covertly blog from work I was foiled when our office moved and our internet/email connections were down for nearly a week. Curses! I am in a bit of a knitting funk. I've been feeling pretty yucky physically, so that may be coloring my outlook a bit. I hope I shake this soon. Two works in progress: Wave/Shell stole - not much progress. Purple Passion Boa - about half way there. My family of four (plus 2 cats, 1 dog, 1 rabbit and 3 lizards) live in a fairly small space. My stash/crafting space is currently along one wall in the living room (the only common room in the house- we don't have a family room). The skeins of yarn tend to reach out their yarny tentacles and start to envelope the whole room, especially after a stash dive attempt. While I love my crafty corner, I am sick to death of having my living room looking like a work in progress. So I am going to move the whole craft stash to my bedroom. Throw out the contents of the hall closet, put husbands clothes in there and utilize his half of my closet for craftiness. Shouldn't be too difficult - right? Will knitti-me get control of her living space? Will it look like Hurricane Isabel made a West Coast visit? Will husband moan to be banished to the hall closet? Will knitti-me find some crafty treasures and be diverted from her mission? Stay tuned!

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 6:19:00 PM ----- BODY:

Yesterday, while waiting at Sacramento’s longest traffic light (Coloma at Sunrise), I picked up my knitting and worked a few rows. I heard a quick toot of a horn and looked to my left. There in the car next to mine were two older gentlemen waving and smiling at me. I’m thinking, “Do I know you?” I tentatively smile and nod. Then one of the men began to pantomime knitting while the other gave me the thumbs up. The light changed, they gave me one more wave and roared off down the street. Finished the second Kool Aid-dyed hat. I am amazed at the colors that came from this hank of yarn dyed by my husband (he’s an artist you know). The colors are autumnal in nature ranging from oranges to greens to dark burgundies and reds. I think I may stick a pompom on the top, despite the fact I knit it to fit an adult. I also started another knitted boa. This one is dubbed Purple Passion (thanks to Natashia, who is the project-naming diva around the office). It is knit out of Colinette’s Fandango cotton chenille in a pretty purple and Trendsetter’s Dune color #94 (a mohair/metallic combo yarn). I’m still plodding along on the Wave/Shell stole. I try to knit one 16 row pattern repeat per day, but have fallen behind the last several days or so.

-------- AUTHOR: Knitti-me TITLE: DATE: 4:26:00 PM ----- BODY:

Well, the Ice Princess Boa is done! It was sold even before it got off the needles. I was knitting away on the boa at the kids play rehearsal on Sunday and one of the moms asked, "What are you going to do with the scarf when it's complete?" I replied that it would be sold. "To anyone in particular?" she asked? I said, "No." And she said "Sold!" So I left with $70 bucks in my hot little hand. I will get pics before the boa is wrapped in tissue and delivered to it's recipient. I have mentioned this before, but I plan on going to Nicaragua for about two weeks in January or February to do some charity work and sightseeing. I am selling my hand-knit items to help raise money for th