Knitting Circle

Anniversary Socks

2008-12-29T21:05:00.000-08:00

I seem to be on a roll with socks. I just finished the Go With the Flow Socks and now I have started the Anniversary Socks. I am still battling a nasty cold, so I've had lots of time to knit. I am even going to try and get out to my knitting group tomorrow night.

Time Off

2008-12-28T09:56:00.001-08:00

Besides knitting I have been enjoying my time off surfing the net, drinking tea with honey and reading Running With Scissors.

Almost Finished

2008-12-27T17:58:00.000-08:00

I have been home sick, so I have had plenty of time to knit on my socks. I should be done in the next day or so. It seems like a long time since I finished a knitting project and it will feel good to get one done. Besides, I need new socks!

It's Knitting Circle's 4th Blogiversary!

2008-12-26T07:43:00.000-08:00

I have been blogging for 4 years now! Of course I have to say not much in the past year or so due to my busy schedule. I have never stopped knitting though, and I am almost done with the Go with the Flow socks. Our snowy weather has been ad added plus on having time to finish my current project. I have to say though, that I am ready for the snow to go away now. Cabin fever is starting to set in.

Go With The Flow

2008-12-23T14:13:00.000-08:00

I am spending my free time at home working on Go With The Flow socks by Evelyn Clark. I am using some Socks That Rock yarn. This is a wonderful easy lace pattern. I've pretty much been snowed in for a week now, so I am getting lots of knitting done! Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow.

Snow!

2008-12-21T08:57:00.000-08:00

The first snow of the year! Today I am going to behave like I'm 10 and build a snowman and go sledding.

I'm Back!

2008-12-17T20:38:00.000-08:00

I am taking this quarter off from photography school, so I am back to knitting and blogging. I couldn't be more excited! I feel I haven't had time to do some of the other things I love. I am not quitting photography, but rather working on bodies of work I hope to show soon.

Stacia and I went knitting at Third Place Books the other night. Tonight I am at a Ravelry group, enjoying the atmosphere and good company.

Oranges

2008-04-20T19:09:00.001-07:00

Oranges
Originally uploaded by bwendy3

Today a friend of mine and I went to Pike Place Market. The fruit always looks so yummy!

I am half way done with my scarf and Gracie hasn't eaten it yet (knock on wood). Hopefully next week I will have a photo.

Kabota Flowers

2008-04-13T16:47:00.001-07:00

Kabota Flowers
Originally uploaded by bwendy3

Yesterday we also went to the Kabota Gardens. I think I want to knit something using these colors, everything was very beautiful!

Spring Has Finally Arrived!

2008-04-12T22:18:00.001-07:00

Cherry Blossoms
Originally uploaded by bwendy3

Stacia and I went out on this beautiful day and shot some pictures with our friend Ben. I actually got sunburned! I am glad I got to spend the day outside.

Tonight I am working on my scarf, which won't come in handy until fall, but at least I will have it finished by then.

Waiting for Spring

2008-04-06T20:24:00.001-07:00

Waiting for Spring
Originally uploaded by bwendy3

I don't know about you, but I am ready for warmer weather. I know that means knitting in cotton or lace, but I am willing to forgo the wool for the few months of warm weather we have here in the Pacific Northwest. Of course I am working on a scarf right now, which I would still be able to wear if I get it done soon enough. When are we going to see the sun?!!!

Snow and Spring

2008-03-31T23:50:00.001-07:00

Snow and Spring Flower
Originally uploaded by bwendy3

We've had crazy weather around here. Last weekend there was snow, and sun, and hail, and rain. We've had it all.

My So Called Scarf

2008-03-30T21:53:00.001-07:00

I haven't had a lot of time to knit, and when I do start a project, Gracie seems to destroy it before it is finished. Hopefully this scarf will make it to the end! I am knitting it with Manos.

Trip to India

2008-02-27T19:50:00.000-08:00

I am planning a trip to India in March of 2009 to work in an orphanage as my vacation. I have opened an online card shop in which all proceeds will be used to fund my trip. You can visit my shop at Wendy's Cards.

Shadow

2008-02-18T20:14:00.001-08:00

Shadow
Originally uploaded by bwendy3

Today I took my niece to my grandmother's house. We had fun in the sun. Check out my new photography blog at Wendy Brown Photography .

My Protege

2008-02-11T23:09:00.001-08:00

My Protege
Originally uploaded by bwendy3

I am so proud! I taught my niece to knit and now she is a knitting fool. Can you tell pink is her favorite color?

Portland Trip

2008-02-07T22:19:00.000-08:00

We had a great time in Portland. We thought we would never get there, but eventually we made it to the Edgefield. There was a 10 car pile up on I-5, snow, rain, then we got lost. I was never so happy to see a hotel in all my life. We went to lots of shops, knitting stores, tea houses and book stores. I hope to go back soon.

Spinning Wheel

2008-02-06T21:48:00.000-08:00

What goes up must come down
Spinnin' wheel got to go 'round
Talkin' 'bout your troubles it's a cryin' sin
Ride a painted pony let the spinnin' wheel spin...

I hope to make it to the spinning group this friday.

Portland!

2008-01-30T22:56:00.000-08:00

I am going to Portland with some knitting friends on Friday. I am very excited to get away for a few days and I will be able to knit without worrying about Gracie eating my work. See you when we get back.

Revisiting an Old Friend

2008-01-09T23:30:00.000-08:00

Well, Gracie got into my knitting AGAIN!!! Luckily no damage was done to the project I was working on, but she did eat my needles, Ugh! So tonight I decided to pull out my guitar and try to remember how to play. I play both rock and classical. I am a little rusty and I sure wish I had a piano to tune it by.

Sick Day

2008-01-07T19:38:00.001-08:00

Everyone in my office is sick, and now me. Today I stayed home and was very bored. I should have been knitting, but didn't feel like it. I did get some photos of my care taker though...

Happy Blogiversary - 3 years old

2007-12-24T01:15:00.000-08:00

My blog is 3 years old today! Although I don't blog as much as I would like to, I still try and write as often as I can. I am amazed at how quickly those 3 years went by.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Gracie Checks out the Snow

2007-12-02T13:24:00.001-08:00

Yesterday we had the first snow of the year! I got a lot of knitting done. Soon my first Embossed Leaves sock will be finished. I am also starting a sweater for a friend. Lets hope for lots of snow this year!

Embossed Leaves

2007-11-24T09:55:00.001-08:00

Yesterday I was invited over to Pip and Tom's house for a second Thanksgiving day meal! While there I worked on my Embossed Leaves socks. The food and company were great and I think I need to diet the rest of the weekend!

Embossed Leaves

2007-11-22T00:55:00.001-08:00

Embossed Leaves
Originally uploaded by bwendy3

I started Embossed Leaves using Filatura Di Crosa Maxime in the brown color way. I love this pattern so far. As lace goes, it is very easy to knit. And believe me, I am lace challenged. The yarn is also wonderful and purchased from Main Street Yarns in Mill Creek.

As long as my dog does not eat my knitting like she did the last project I started, I think I will be very happy with these socks. I am careful to keep yarn away from her as she tends to think it is wonderful to snack on.

Happy Thanksgiving to all!

A Sewing Project

2007-11-17T21:46:00.000-08:00

I have had an incredible urge to sew, so I went and bought some fabric today. I am going to make a bag of my own design, so I'm not sure how it will turn out. The fabric is pretty, so it shouldn't look too bad unless my sewing skills aren't as good as I think they are. I will keep you posted.

I've been knitting, Really!!!

2007-11-07T21:19:00.001-08:00

I've been a lousy Blogger this past year. It seems I am always too busy. I have been doing a lot of knitting, and I am hoping this weekend I will have a finished sweater to show! With my online store and my car breaking down every other day, I have been focused elsewhere.

The auto dealer is being nice and they are going to give me a new car tomorrow. Hopefully it will be nicer than the one I have now. I'll try and post a picture.

Be sure to visit my online store at 4 Paws Photography for cute Christmas cards like these

Remedy Tea

2007-10-07T10:17:00.000-07:00

Last week Cast Off met at Remedy Tea. It is a wonderful tea house on Capitol Hill that literally has hundreds of teas to choose from. The atmosphere is very contemporary and it is a great place to meet friends.

Lots of knitting was accomplished by all. Kat and Amy were working hard on their projects. Kat is making a sweater and Amy was finishing a hat.

I am working on the sleeves of my blue striped sweater. I will be wearing it soon! Here it is in a giant pile. When it is done, there will be better photos.

My indoor photography could use some work. I think my next class will be lighting.

Don't forget to visit my new online store.
10% of all sales will be donated to PAWS.

Sleeves

2007-09-24T01:31:00.000-07:00

I need some advice. I am designing the sweater I am knitting and I am thinking of knitting the front and back together and then picking up stitches to knit the sleeves. Are there any draw backs to this? I just think it would be easier than knitting sleeves seperately. I hope to post photos tomorrow.

Don't forget to visit my new online store.
10% of all sales will be donated to PAWS.

New Online Store

2007-09-21T23:11:00.000-07:00

I haven't been blogging much this past year because I have been in photography school and I have been way too busy. I am launching a pet photography business called 4 Paws Photography. If you live in the Seattle area and would like to book a photo session with your pet please email me at 4pawsphotography@gmail.com for more information. Also, please visit my online store at www.cafepress.com/4pawsphotograph. If you would like any of the items with a photo of your pet, email me and I would be happy to oblige.

I have been knitting, in fact I have the front and back of a sweater I am designing finished and will be sewing them together this weekend. Then I will just have the sleeves and neck to go. I hope to have it finished before the weather gets cold. Photos will be coming soon.

A Day at the Fair

2007-09-02T20:06:00.001-07:00

A Day in the Park

2007-07-08T22:38:00.000-07:00

Friday I went with Pip and Tom to Discovery Park for an outing with the puppy and her boys. It was a beautiful Seattle day and fun was had by all.

Blue Monday

2007-07-08T22:09:00.000-07:00

Last Monday my new puppy Gracie and I went camping in Sequim. I was able to catch this photo as sunset was approaching over Dungeness Bay. It was beautiful there and we will definitely be back in the near future.

I am also knitting a blue sweater of my own design. I need to get working on it as fall is nearing quicker than I would like. The stripes do create problems, but I am hoping I can figure it out. It can always be a "camping" sweater like the first one I designed.

Rest In Peace

2007-06-24T15:48:00.000-07:00

My dog McKenzie passed away on May 26th from congestive heart failure. He was my best pal and knitting buddy and I still can't believe he is gone. I still think about him every day.

The next morning I woke up and it seemed so quiet and empty in the house. I decided to take a trip to PAWS. The dogs there seemed nice but too large for the condo. On my way out I asked about a dog whose paper work was missing, which meant someone was interested in adopting. They told me a family wanted to visit with her, but were currently with another dog. They told my I could visit with her as people can't put dogs on reserve. I fell in love with her! Her name was originally Betty, but since I have a friend with that name, I changed it to Gracie. She is 6 months old and a handful of energy!

One Anemoi Finished!

2007-04-13T22:33:00.000-07:00

Tonight I finished the first mitten! It will look much better after it has been washed and blocked. The pattern knits up fairly quickly, if you have the time to knit. Lately, that has been hard to find for me. I no longer have time to go to many knitting groups. I think I may have to take a vacation so I can get in some much needed knitting to finish all of my UFOs.

Anemoi

2007-03-11T23:45:00.000-07:00

I have started on Anemoi, the mittens designed by Eunny Jang. I am knitting them using Baby Ull. The yarn is a little thinner than the pattern requires, so I had to use larger needles to get the right gage. So far it is a fun pattern and I love color work!!!

Which Shawl Shall I Make?

2007-03-04T22:02:00.000-08:00

I want to start a new shawl, but which pattern? I have some yarn from Knitpicks.com that I bought a while ago, and I have about 4 skeins of it. Does anyone have any suggestions?

Rainy Super Bowl Sunday

2007-02-04T20:31:00.000-08:00

I spent the day winding yarn and then went to my friend Lisa's house to watch the game. A very peaceful and relaxing day.

What a Trip!!!

2007-01-29T01:17:00.000-08:00

Some things you never want to see when looking out the window of the plane you are riding on. Today I was flying from Baltimore to Atlanta on my way back from Washington, D.C. and saw flames coming from the wing of the plane. I called the stewardess over and she said, "oh that's a light."
I ask you, would a light have flames coming out of it that were turning the metal on the wing brown and making it bubble?!!! Luckily we landed ok and I got off that plane as quickly as possible. The people around me didn't think it was a light either.

I am exhausted from lack of sleep and several time changes over the last 3 days. Here are some photos that haven't been through Photoshop yet.

A Day in Edmonds

2007-01-21T20:44:00.000-08:00

Today I took my camera and went down to the waterfront in Edmonds. Here are a few photos from my day. Too bad the sun didn't come out.

Washington, D.C. Bound!!

2007-01-18T22:50:00.000-08:00

I received word today that I have been awarded the funding from Moveon.org to go to Washington, D.C. next weekend and film the protest against the war! I am very excited that they are giving me this opportunity. I will share some of the photos when I get back.

Brown Scarf

2007-01-15T21:41:00.000-08:00

I finished the brown scarf. It is just a 2x2 rib knit in Cascade 220, but is done just in time for the snow. I am now working on the matching mittens.

I just submitted an application to get funding to go to Washington, D.C. to photograph the protest there at the end of the month. Wish me luck!

Still Snowing!

2007-01-13T14:16:00.000-08:00

The weather outside looks like this from the back deck of my condo. It is a good day to stay inside and work on my new project.

I am knitting Unst from Nancy Bush's Knitting on the Road. The yarn is Socks that Rock in the Mustang Sally colorway. The color is gorgeous and I am really liking the lace pattern. I will have to say that I am getting cabin fever from being couped up inside, but at least I am not bored.

Another Pair of Socks Finished

2007-01-11T21:51:00.000-08:00

I finished the Socks that Rock Rare Gem socks. I used a basic pattern as I thought the yarn was too pretty to knit a pattern with. These are thick socks knit on size 5 needles, so they will be perfect to wear in the snow tomorrow.

Snow, again!

2007-01-11T19:05:00.000-08:00

Not the best photo, but this is what it looked like out my window last night. Today I had to drive to the Park and Ride on sheer ice. I slid out of control twice, luckily there was a curb to stop me.

From Pull Over to Cardigan

2007-01-10T19:32:00.000-08:00

This week I have transformed an ill fitting and scratchy pull over into a cardigan. It wasn't as difficult as I thought it would be and I am happy with the results. I used the crochet steeking method, which is posted on the blog See Eunny Knit. The instructions were very good, and this method is very easy. I think it is better than using a sewing machine because it leaves a very professional finished edge.

Happy New Year!

2007-01-01T13:23:00.000-08:00

Finished Gem

2006-12-31T18:12:00.000-08:00

Ready for the New Year, I have finished the first sock of the Rare Gem in Socks that Rock. I think 2007 is going to be a great year, or at least I am going to try to make it one. Also, something good that happened to me today was that I was carded at the grocery store when buying some wine. The check out lady said I didn't look anywhere near 45! That made my day.

A Christmas Poem

2006-12-27T19:01:00.000-08:00

Here is a Christmas poem written by my 12 year old niece...

Christmas

Christmas is coming and everyone’s singing,
Carols and laughing is all you’ll be hearing!

Make sure you’re not greedy so Santa will come,
Or you’ll be stuck with coal and no FUN!

Presents and joy is what you can’t miss,
Especially under the mistle toe….
Kiss, kiss, kiss!

So whatever your Christmas turns out to be,
Know that Santa is watching both you and me!

E.A. 2006

New Socks

2006-12-26T23:25:00.000-08:00

I have been busy since Saturday knitting a pair of socks out of the new Socks that Rock yarn that came in the mail. The colorway is called Rare Gem. I want to have them finished by Saturday, although I don't think I'll make it. I'm almost done with the first one.

Happy Blogiversary

2006-12-24T08:52:00.000-08:00

Happy Blogiversary! My blog is now 2 years old, and I've had lots of fun. It doesn't seem like it could already be that long.

Winter Scarf

2006-12-16T15:15:00.000-08:00

I am still working on my winter scarf, it will be done at some point soon. I haven't had a lot of time to work on it, but I am trying to squeeze a few moments in here or there.

Knitting Tension

2006-12-10T12:13:00.000-08:00

A great way to relieve tension in your neck and shoulders after knitting for a long period of time is to get one of these:

I bought a couple of videos to go along with it and it is very relaxing and stretches your muscles out. The nice thing about the ball is that I can actually do the excercises, unlike the Pilates video I bought.

As far as knitting is concerned, I am finishing up some old projects I started last year. I will post picks when they are done.

Cast Off

2006-12-02T10:06:00.000-08:00

Thursday we had our first meeting of Cast Off at Caffe Vitta. Fun was had by all, it was great to see old friends again. Kat brought some yummy fries.

The Blocks Are Getting Bigger!

2006-11-28T22:31:00.000-08:00

I just realized I am not piecing my quilt together the traditional way. My pattern does not have a good picture of how a square is suppose to look, but oh well, I don't like doing things the traditional way anyhow. My office was closed today due to the snow, so I was able to get a lot of sewing done. I am still knitting on a scarf and mittens. I will have pictures of them when they are finished.

Quilt Block So far...

2006-11-26T21:06:00.000-08:00

Since it has been snowing, I have been working on my quilt. Here is one of my blocks so far, it is not finished yet. I am going to switch to knitting now as I can't sit at the sewing machine any longer.

Snow, snow and more snow

2006-11-26T18:05:00.000-08:00

It is now 6 PM and it is still snowing!!! I love the snow and hope that it is still here in the morning. I have done a lot of work on my quilt today, I may have to do some knitting later.

Let It Snow!!!!

2006-11-26T09:14:00.000-08:00

I woke up this morning and it was doing this:

I figure it is a good day to do this:

Gypsy Turkey Day

2006-11-25T11:13:00.000-08:00

Pip and Tom had some friends and family over yesterday for Gypsy Turkey Day! Lots of good food and fun were had by all!

Finished!

2006-11-19T10:45:00.000-08:00

Just in time! My friend Gina is coming to town on Tuesday with her little boy. It just needs to be blocked, ok it really needs to be blocked. Hopefully the finished product will resemble a rectangle. It is my first crochet project and I taught myself, so the chances are huge that I made some mistakes.

Baby Blanket

Baby Blanket

2006-11-11T17:01:00.000-08:00

I am frantically working on the baby blanket as my friend will be in town in about a week. It is coming right along, crocheting goes much faster than knitting. I hope to show some more quilting pictures next week!

Baby Blanket

Quilting

2006-11-08T22:37:00.000-08:00

What better way to break in my new sewing machine than to make a quilt? Tonight I bought some fabric to start the squares! I hope it rains all weekend so I can stay indoors and sew, and knit, and crochet...

Quilting Fabric

Reifel Island

2006-11-04T21:51:00.000-08:00

I went to Lander, BC this morning with a group of friends to photograph birds at Reifel Island Bird Sanctuary. We left at 6:30 AM and got up there about 8:30. All was well until about a half an hour later, when it began to pour. Since my camera is brand new, I didn't want to use it in the rain. I spent most of my time in the warming hut trying to dry off. I only got a few photos which aren't very good. I hope to go back in the Spring.

The Happy Hooker

2006-10-15T16:33:00.000-07:00

This weekend I taught myself how to crochet using Debbie Stoller's The Happy Hooker. You can see the book over on the side bar. The instructions in the book are really good and easy to follow. I am crocheting a baby blanket for a friend who is coming into town over Thanksgiving.

Crochet

Spinning Socks that Rock

2006-10-11T00:28:00.000-07:00

Tonight I started spinning the Socks that Rock Roving I bought at the Oregon Flock and Fiber Festival. It is really spinning up nicely. I love the colors and hope to knit some socks when it is spun up. We'll have to see how I do at plying as I have never done it before.

Socks that Rock Roving

Learning to Spin

2006-10-08T11:26:00.000-07:00

I learned an important lesson regarding spinning - taking lessons is a good thing!

Here is my spinning before taking a lesson. Pretty sad looking wouldn't you say?

And here it is after taking a lesson! I'm very happy with my improvement.

I have been doing a little spinning every day as I find it very relaxing. I think this is going to cut into my knitting time.

K2TOG

2006-10-01T20:13:00.000-07:00

To Deb who posted on my blog about coming to K2TOG, of course you are welcome. We meet at the Online Cafe on Monday nights from about 6PM to closing. Hope to see you there!

Baby Hat

2006-09-30T16:38:00.000-07:00

Last night I had some friends over to knit and I whipped this hat up in about 2 hours (or less). It is knit on size 17 needles with Takhi Baby Print yarn. It is for someone who works in my building at work.

My psycho downstairs neighbor was in rare form last night. He yelled at us because he could hear the yarn swift?!!

Baby Hat

Lauku Mate

2006-08-29T19:29:00.000-07:00

I have made a life altering decision this week, and that is to adopt a child. I am going to try to adopt a child from Latvia, where I served in the Peace Corps almost ten years ago. If you would like to read my blog as I go through this exciting experience you may view it here.

K2TOG

2006-08-27T10:41:00.000-07:00

Since I have nothing new to show you this week, I will post some pictures from my Monday night knitting group K2TOG. A fun time was had by all, well except maybe me as I was frogging some rows on my Swallowtail Shawl.

Carol is recovering from the gunshot to her leg and is doing quite well. We were so happy she was able to make it!

Kat and Suzy always have fun!

Daniel is almost done with Rogue knit in the round! And he knit it as a cardigan as well.

Erin is starting a new project.

Swallowtail Shawl

2006-08-20T22:40:00.000-07:00

August must be my month of lace projects as all of the projects I am working on are lace - the Hippy Crunchy socks, Lucy's Scarf, and now the Swallotail Shawl. Evelyn Clark is one of my favorite designers and I just love her shawls. The pattern is in the new issue of Interweave Knits. I am knitting the shawl out of Knit Picks Shadow in the Vineyard colorway.

Swallowtail Shawl

Lace can be frustrating for me, but so far this project has been pretty easy. Or maybe I am just getting better at knitting lace, either way it is an enjoyable knit.

Knitting Adventure

2006-08-19T19:14:00.000-07:00

Last night 3 Beagles and Pip and Tom kidnapped me and took me on a knitting adventure!

Here is Pip and Tom working on her beautiful cabled blanket for her son.

We ate dinner at Cafe Flora, yum!

3 Beagles is insane and working on Rogue with intarsia cales! Intarsia cables!!!!

It was a really fun night. I hope they will come and kidnap me again.

Vintage Inspiration

2006-08-18T04:57:00.000-07:00

I just bought this book off of Ebay. It is a knitting book from 1967 with sweater patterns. I like the idea of taking vintage designs and modernizing them a bit. I don't intend to knit any of the patterns as written, but I am looking to get ideas for sweaters to design myself. If you know of any good places to get vintage patterns, please let me know.

Lucy's Scarf

2006-08-17T14:18:00.000-07:00

Inspired by Wendy Johnson, I decided to knit a scarf in honor of my cat Lucy. You see, I am also a Wendy with a cat named Lucy. I am knitting it out of Frog Tree Alpaca fingering weight. It is wonderful yarn to work with, so, so, so, soft. After I started it I thought, "Am I crazy to be knitting a scarf out of fingering weight yarn?" But it actually is knitting up quite fast.

Lucy's Scarf

First Date in 13 Years!

2006-08-16T13:58:00.000-07:00

Last night I had my first date in 13 years. My boyfriend and I broke up 2 1/2 months ago and I obviously haven't been on a date since I met him. The date wasn't too bad, we met at a Starbucks and talked over coffee. I don't think we are a match for many reasons, but he was a nice guy and it was good just to get out there again. At least I don't have as negative a view of dating as I did prior to last night.

I'm Back!

2006-08-06T21:35:00.000-07:00

I took a little hiatus from blogging, but that doesn't mean I haven't been knitting. I received the new Socks that Rock yarn from Blue Moon Fibers called Pease Blossom. The pattern that came with them is called Hippy Crunchy. It is a lace pattern that is difficult but beautiful. The top of the sock is an Icord instead of the usual ribbing which I think makes these socks unique.

Hippy Crunchy Socks

In unhappier news, my friend Carol from one of my knitting groups was shot in Seattle a couple of weeks ago at the Jewish Federation Building. She is out of the hospital now and we all wish her a speedy recovery.

Socks that Rock Fairgrounds

2006-06-24T20:42:00.000-07:00

The first sock is done! I am trying to get this pair finished before I receive the next skein of Socks that Rock. I decided this pattern was really busy, so I did a plain sock. It is from Nancy Bush's Folk Socks. I think it is called the Classic Sock Pattern (But don't take my word for it, I'm too lazy to go look). Next time I'll show you the sweater I have been designing. It is still in the beginning stages, but I like how it is turning out.

Fairgrounds

Fort Casey

2006-06-17T17:17:00.000-07:00

Today I went to Whidbey Island to take some photographs. I am disappointed in how they turned out as I found out when I got back that I had something on my lens and a good portion of my pictures have spots on them. Oh well, here are a couple that look ok.

First Handspun

2006-06-16T21:23:00.000-07:00

Here is a look at my first handspun done at the Spin In at Weaving Works this evening! It is very slubby, but I'm sure I'll find something to knit with it. It took me a while to get the hang of it, but by the end of the evening I had it downpat, well sort of.

First Handspun

I'm calling it an early evening tonight as I have to be at the Mukilteo Ferry at 7 AM tomorrow. I am going on a photo shoot on Whidbey Island with a photography group. I'll post some pics tomorrow.

Vacation Knitting

2006-06-14T13:16:00.000-07:00

I'm on vacation this week and I have been doing a lot of knitting. I finished another Ballband Dishcloth and I started a sock using Socks that Rock Fairgrounds. Today I have finished up the heel on the first sock. Despite the fact that my boyfriend has left me, I am enjoying this vacation. It is nice to spend the time the way that I want to and not how someone else wants me to.

Finished Heel

The key to not getting depressed after a break up is to keep yourself really busy, which I have. Thank goodness for my knitting groups! I don't have a lot of time to wallow in self pitty.

These Socks Rock

2006-06-12T15:32:00.000-07:00

I couldn't wait any longer, I had to start a second pair of socks. I just had to start using the Socks that Rock yarn. These are going to be really bright socks! They are knitting up quickly, a lot quicker than Lorna's Laces as the yarn is bigger. It is more of a sport weight than a fingering weight.

Fairground

I Need a Hug

2006-06-06T20:05:00.000-07:00

After 12 years my boyfriend informed me that he is moving out and selling the condo. I have no money and no where to go. At least I still have knitting.

Spinning!

2006-06-04T10:13:00.000-07:00

Look what I got yesterday! An Ashford Traditional and I'm sure that spinning will be my next obsession. It is a beautiful wheel, if only I knew how to use it. Denise from Olympia was kind enough to sell it to me for a good price. Thanks Denise! I see a spinning class in my near future.

Ashford Traditional

If you look close you can see my cat "Little Buddy" in the background. She is a holy terror, but not in a mean way, rather a destructive way. I've never had a cat who could destroy so many of my belongings. She is the daughter of my other cat Lucy, so we are committed to her. I have to "cat proof" things, but she is a sweety.

Some Mason-Dixon Knitting

2006-05-30T23:15:00.000-07:00

I finished my first Ballband Dishcloth from Mason-Dixon Knitting. This was a fun and quick knit. I used Sugar and Creme Cotton yarn in a solid green and varigated colors. I can probably knit another dishcloth or two more from the skeins of yarn I used for this one. I will be knitting many more.

Ballband Dishcloth

Yarrow Ribbed Sock

2006-05-27T12:04:00.000-07:00

I have finished the first Yarrow Ribbed Sock! It only took me a month. I've been trying to figure out why it took so long, and then I remembered I am also working on Ene's Scarf. If only I could stay focused on one project they wouldn't take me so long. But I get bored working on only one project, so speedy I am not.

Yarrow Ribbed Sock

I've spoken with others who have knit socks from Lorna's Laces Vera and some say theirs striped like mine while others did not. I will have to wait and see what the second skein does. As long as they are the same color I am fine with it.

Socks that Rock

2006-05-26T17:46:00.000-07:00

My Socks that Rock yarn came in the mail yesterday! Aren't the colors beautiful?!! This colorway is called "Fairgrounds". I need to speed up my Yarrow Ribbed Socks so that I can start a pair knit from my new yarn.

Socks that Rock

Tonight I'm off to meet 3beagles and Pip and Tom and others to knit. I really enjoy knitting on Friday nights as this group meets close to home. That means I don't have to drive to Seattle. I hope everyone has a nice holiday weekend!

May Knitting

2006-05-21T14:09:00.000-07:00

I've consentrated on 2 projects this month, one is the Yarrow Ribbed Socks from Knitting Vintage Socks and the other is Ene's Scarf from Scarf Style. Both are Nancy Bush patterns. I really like the heel on the Yarrow Ribbed Socks, it is decorative and it fits my foot perfectly, much better than the Madder Ribbed Socks.

Speaking of Socks, I just made it in to the Socks that Rock Sock club. I will receive a new skein of yarn every other month until the end of the year, along with a sock pattern. The skeins of yarn will be previously unreleased color ways, so I am really looking forward to it. Unfortunately the sock club is now closed until 2007. So if you are interested keep an eye out on Blue Moon Fiber Arts website to see when the next club will be open.

Ene's Scarf is coming along slowly but surely as I can only work on it when I am at home alone. It requires too much consentration to knit on it at any of the knitting groups I belong to.

The Yarn Garden

2006-05-13T20:37:00.000-07:00

Today I went to Gig Harbor to celebrate Mother's Day with my mom a day early. I got down there a little early so that I could check out The Yarn Garden. I bought a yarn swift which I have been wanting for ages and a skein of lace weight yarn. It is called Cashwool by Zegna Baruffa, which is made in Italy. 1,460 yards for $14 in the color denim. It is 100% Merino wool and is beautiful. I plan on knitting an Evelyn Clark shawl with it, which one I don't know yet.

I met my sister, mom and grandmother for lunch and then we all had pedicures. My grandmother is 92 and this was the first pedicure she has ever had. I guess you are never too old to try new things. The weather was wonderful and the harbor was beautiful. All in all it was a great day.

McKenzie

2006-05-08T22:54:00.000-07:00

My favorite knitting companion is my dog McKenzie. He likes to curl up on my lap while I knit. He is such a joy to come home to as he jumps and skips around when I walk through the door. Every single time. It's great to have someone so excited you are home.

McKenzie

Tonight I met the gang at Online Cafe and we knit for several hours. I have to cut down on the number of nights I drive to Seattle to knit as gas is so expensive. If only the bus was convenient, but I live too far away. Tonight I worked on Ene's scarf and made a little progress. I will show pictures once I have made significant progress. Hopefully I can get some pictures that show the pretty color that it really is.

Ene's Scarf Revisited

2006-05-08T00:45:00.000-07:00

I decided today that I need to take a break from my sock obsession for a while and finish up some old projects. One of the first on my list is Ene's Scarf from the book Scarf Style. It of course is a Nancy Bush design, which if you read this blog will know she is one of my favorite designers. In my memory, I was much further along on this project than I see today that I am. Another good reason to start work on it again. The color in this photo is off, but the batteries in my camera were about to die, so I couldn't take another one.

Ene's Scarf

This weekend was pretty quiet. Saturday I tried to make a trip to Tricoter to check out their Socks that Rock yarn. After making the trip down to Seattle, the Montlake Bridge was closed for opening day of boating season, so I had to abandon that plan and went to another local Shop and bought some Lorna's Laces in a solid Periwinkle color, so the trip was not wasted.

I spent Sunday morning studying for an insurance exam I will be taking in June. If you ever have insomnia, pick up one of the CPCU course books and they will be guaranteed to put you to sleep. I love my job, but studying insurance isn't the most exciting thing in the world. Sunday evenings we spend with Scott's mom, so tonight I made a spaghetti dinner and we watched a movie on tv. All in all, a very nice weekend.

Yarrow Ribbed Socks

2006-04-30T11:45:00.000-07:00

After much thought about what socks to knit next, I changed my mind on knitting the Silk Socks and changed to a rib. I decided the colors of the yarn would make the lace work invisible. I think I made the right choice because it is pooling. The colors are pretty though!

Vera

Last night Stacia had a bunch of us over for dinner and knitting. There was a lot of food and a lot of knitting was done. All but me had spent the day at the Fiber Expo in Seattle. I will have to go next year as it sounds like a lot of fun. Daniel has some pictures on his blog of the event.

Finished Pair

2006-04-23T12:51:00.000-07:00

I finished the Madder Ribbed Socks today! I really like how they turned out. The toe and heel were ones I hadn't knit before. The toe was a star toe and the heel was a Dutch heel. Even though the Mountain Colors Barefoot has mohair, it doesn't seem to bother me. Usually mohair makes me itch.

Madder Ribbed Socks

On to the next pair which will be Fancy Silk Sock from Knitting Vintage Socks knit with Lorna's Laces Vera.

Favorite Knitting Project

2006-04-18T22:37:00.000-07:00

What is your favorite project?

Socks, Socks, Socks

2006-04-18T19:23:00.000-07:00

I'm working on the Madder Ribbed socks again from Knitting Vintage Socks. I'm almost done with the second one. I have noticed a pattern forming here...socks! It seems like that is all I have finished this year so far.

This is some gorgeous Lorna's Laces I bought at my LYS last week. I think I will use it for my next pair of socks, whatever those will be!

Cupcake Royale

2006-04-13T18:59:00.000-07:00

Last night I made it to Seattle Stitch 'N Bitch after what seems like an eternity. For the past two weeks I have pretty much stayed at home due to health reasons, it was good to get out.

Jessica and another S 'N Ber work on their projects.

This is Suzy's huge bag. Can you believe how big it is?!!! Of course she is going to felt it. I can't wait to see the finished project.

Suzanne has the coolest hair! And it matches her knitting to boot! She is knitting a Debbie Bliss bolero which will be stunning when finished.

And since we meet at Cupcake Royale, a picture of the giant cupcake above the door.

Knitting Journal

2006-04-08T14:38:00.000-07:00

This year I started keeping a knitting journal of all of my finished projects. I'm sorry to say I don't have much in it yet, but more will come soon. This will be a great way to remember the projects I give away as well as good notes if I want to repeat a project in the future.

Knitting Journal

What's in Your Knitting Bag?

2006-04-06T18:48:00.000-07:00

Pip asks "What's in Your Knitting Bag?"

1 Skein of Cascade 220 in pink
1 skein of Cascade 220 in brown
1 finished Flap-Top Mitten
1 Madder Ribbed sock on the needles
1 scarf
1 set of size 5 dpns
1 set of size 7 dpns
1 Katcha Katcha
1 measuring tape
1 needle sizer
1 pair of sizzors
1 chibi needle
2 crochet hooks
stitch markers

Knitting Bag

First Mitten Finished!

2006-04-05T19:59:00.000-07:00

I finished the first Flap-Top Mitten from Handknit Holidays. After some confusion regarding the instructions for knitting the flap, I finished the mitten with no problems. I'm on to the second one.

Flap-Top Mitten

Remember the Madder Ribbed Socks? I was working on them prior to the Knitting Olympics. I picked them up again this week. The first sock is finished and I am working on the second one. I have been a little under the weather, so I haven't done my usual amount of knitting, but hope to get back to it real soon. I just love knitting socks, and I love the book Knitting Vintage Socks. My goal is to knit each one in the book.

Learning to Crochet

2006-04-01T20:44:00.000-08:00

I went to the sale at Main Street Yarn today, 25% off of everything! I picked up some Cascade 220 I want to make Granny Squares with for a blanket. With the help of Debbie Stoller's new book and Daniel I think I will manage it.

Crochet

New Renter

2006-03-29T15:40:00.000-08:00

Check out my new renter on the side bar.