keeping busy!

My SP asked me to post some pics of what I'm working on, so here goes!!

Here are a few examples of what I'll be adding to my etsy store:

Stitch markers!! I now have about 50 sets of 4 or 5!!




Cards!! I think I have about 150 cards now! Some are in sets, some are singles! I did post a few on my store, they are actually dated as February, and they are great for knitters! Rocking Chair, with a pretty quilt, next to a basket with yarn and knitting needles!







Bracelets!! I think I have about 75 now. Here are just a few!

bracelets, stitch markers and cards... OH MY!

I had a productive weekend! Friday night I stamped out about 100 images, and water colored them in, so they are mostly ready to be placed on cards! Then sunday, I made about 15 more bracelets, and 20 sets of stitch markers! I'm making loads of progress for this weekend! Unfortunately it doesn't leave much knitting time, but I'll make up for it next week!

Sheep and Wool part 2

I had some pics I still wanted to post, so here goes!!

I lifted these from Saun and Zarah. Finally, I'm posting not one, but two pictures of me! I usually hate pictures of me, but these aren't that bad! And the company is cool! Saun was the woman I spoiled during SP6, and Zarah was one of the ladies in my group of participants for SP7! Too cool to meet these people!




Then some more shots of my other purchases (yes, there were more)...
This is my new drop spindle, I LOVE IT! I've got the green merino roving on it now, and some pink merino I got from Ebay on my other little spindle that Kelly gave me.


And this, is my favorite purchase. This is Tess' Designer Yarns cultivated Silk/wool. I started working with this the second I got home. I'm making the Streakers Shawl from spring 2006 IK. I love how it's coming out so far!



Now for some yarn porn. When I dream about MS&W, this is what I dream about:





And lastly, here is a pic of my little girl and my mom. Thanks so much for coming down to the festival with me! I can't wiat for next year!!!

crafts and packing!!

The last few nights, I've spent a bit of time packing! We have tons of boxes to fill, which I doubt will be any problem. I'm making a lot of progress! Nathan has been taking Celia to the playground, allowing me an hour each night to pack. I got so much done last night!

I've also been working on making lots of bracelets, stitch markers, and cards for the Mount Airy Mayfest craft festival that I'm doing next weekend. I'm sharing a table with a friend, and I don't have enough stuff to sell! I'm working on it though, and I've definitely added a lot more to my stash. After the festival, I'll be posting a lot of it on my Etsy store, and will be offering discounts to the Secret Pal 8 participants!

MS&W 2006!!

All I can say is WOW! I went to Maryland Sheep and Wool last year, and had a blast! But this year, I had even more fun and bought more yarn! My mom and I met at her hotel and had breakfast, before heading out to the festival. We got there at around 8:45, and it was already crowded! I stopped off at Tess' Designer yarns first, and turned in my sample:

For payment for making the tank, I got this:
The yellow/purple/blue superwash merino will be a sweater for Celia, and the sock yarn will be for socks for me!











Then we wandered over to the main building. So much fiber everywhere!! I went to the Koigu booth and got this:











Then we wandered some more and I got these:


wool roving!!















Alpaca!!
















Merino!!












After some shopping, we needed a break! Here is my mom, having some water. It was hot!


'



At 1:30, I wandered over to the grassy knoll where the knitbloggers were meeting up! I didn't stay long, since I was exasuted and had lots more shopping to do!

My SP8 Questionnaire!

Questionnaire

1. What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with? What fibers do you absolutely *not* like?
I love most natural yarns. I am not a big fan of acrylic, but some of the novelty yarns are fun. I do love alpaca, merino, and other really soft yarns. I love Koigu, Lorna's Laces, Debbie Bliss, Manos de Uraguay, and most of KnitPick's yarns.

2. What do you use to store your needles/hooks in?
My SP7 made me a needle case for my straight needles, so I use that. For circs, they are in a CD case. My Double Pointed needles stay in their orig. packaging so I don't get them mixed up.

3. How long have you been knitting? Would you consider your skill level to be beginner, intermediate or advanced? I've been knitting since I was 5, but seriously for 2 years. I'd say I'm intermediate, and not afraid to try anything!

4. Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list?
Yes, I do, but it really needs to be updated.

5. What's your favorite scent? (for candles, bath products etc.)
Lavendar Vanilla, from Bath and Body Works aromatherapy line.

6. Do you have a sweet tooth? Favorite candy?
Oh yes! I love chocolate, and fruity candy (Twizzlers, sweet tarts, spree, skittles, starburst)

7. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do? Do you spin?
I am an avid scrapbooker, card maker, rubber stamper. I also do beaded jewelry/stitch markers, quilting, photography and cooking. I am starting to spin now, and AM HOOKED!!

8. What kind of music do you like? Can your computer/stereo play MP3s? (if your buddy wants to make you a CD)
I have an iPod and iBook, so MP3s are good! I listen to most types of music, except for country music. I love Rock, pop, and metal. My favorite bands are Barenaked Ladies, Guster, Great Big Sea, They Might be Giants, and Dave Matthews Band.

9. What's your favorite color? Or--do you have a color family/season/palette you prefer? Any colors you just can't stand?
I love blues, greens, purples pinks. I really dislike orange, and many bright yellows.

10. What is your family situation? Do you have any pets?
I am married, with a 2 year old daughter. I've got 2 cats.

11. Do you wear scarves, hats, mittens or ponchos?
I love scarves, mittens and hats. Ponchos I'm not sure about, but don't dislike them.

12. What is/are your favorite item/s to knit?
Lately it's been socks. And clothes for my daughter.

13. What are you knitting right now?
Too many things to mention! I've got Clapotis going, two pairs of socks, three sweaters (two for my daughter and one for me), a scarf or two, and the Flower Basket Shawl. And I just started the Streekers Shrug from the spring IK out of Tess' cultivated Silk/wool that i got at MS&W

14. Do you like to receive handmade gifts?
Of course!

15. Do you prefer straight or circular needles? Bamboo, aluminum, plastic?
I prefer circulars that are bamboo, but use anything but plastic.

16. Do you own a yarn winder and/or swift?
Nope, but hope to some day.

17. How did you learn to knit?
My aunt and my mom taught me when I was 5.

18. How old is your oldest UFO?
About a year old

19. What is your favorite holiday?
my birthday!

20. Is there anything that you collect?
poodles, shot glasses, pins (especially from different places/countries)- I have a baseball cap that I put them on, and wine. My husband and I have a nice wine collection. We buy a bottle every where we go!

21. Any books, yarns, needles or patterns out there you are dying to get your hands on? What knitting magazine subscriptions do you have?
For books, I'd say One Skein looks great! I'm also really wanting to give dyeing a try. I do have Interweave Knits as a subscription (thanks to my SP6!). And for needles, size 1, circulars that are LONG (about 40 inches) for the magic Loop method.

22. Are there any new techniques you'd like to learn?
I want to get better at spinning. And lace, my Flower Basket Shawl needs some major help! And Dyeing, I really want to make hand dyed sock yarns!

23. Are you a sock knitter? What are your foot measurements?
Yes! I'm not sure, I'll find out and change this later. I wear a 10 wide.

24. When is your birthday? (mm/dd)
June 25th. And I'll be 30 this year! Argh!

Sheep and Wool!!!

Ok, I have a serious problem. I'm way too excited for Maryland Sheep and Wool! I kept dreaming about yarn last night, and patterns were flying through my head. What to buy for? What to look for? I feel like a kid before Christmas! I saw the forcast this morning, and it looks like it will be about 75 and sunny!! I'm so relieved! I would have still gone if it was pouring, but this makes it better. I'm still debating on whether to bring Celia with me. She'd love the animals, but I'm pretty sure she'd crash before I will be ready to leave. Maybe I'll take her out there sunday after my mom leaves... something to think about. Then I'd get to go twice!

SnB

It's been months since I've been able to go to the SnB at Panera! It looks like I'm finally going to get to go tonight!

done!

I finished the sweater for Tess' Designer Yarns! I really like it, too! I just wish I could try it on, but it's a medium and I don't want to stretch it out. ;)

It looks really nice though, the only thing I had trouble with was picking up the stitches for the collar. The microfiber ribbon is slippery, so I had to use a crochet hook to do it. Overall, I'm very pleased with it. Not bad for a first shot at sample knitting!

4 more days!!

Just 4 more days until Maryland Sheep and Wool!! I am SO excited! I keep thinking of what to buy, what I want to make next, and the like. This is going to be so much fun! And I get to go with my mom, which will make it even better!

Knitbloggers Ball

Saturday, May 6th at 7pm
Clyde's of Columbia
10221 Wincopin Circle, Columbia, MD 21044
Phone: 410.730.2829

I'm really hoping to make it! I am pretty sure I'm doing dinner with my mom, but I'll try to come after!

Bunnies?

I've always loved animals, ever since I was little. Something I've been thinking about for a while now is getting some angora rabbits. But with our townhouse, we have no space for us, let alone rabbits. So now that we're moving to a bigger house, with a yard and a garage, it's more possible! I put out a feeler e-mail this morning to see how Nathan would feel about it, and he came back with a few questions, and said it was definitely something to think about! When I'm at MS&W, I'm definitely going to spend some time looking at angora rabbits, and maybe get 2! We'll have to see...but this could be fun!!

great news!

Well, it looks like we've sold our townhouse! AND, the house we really want was still available, so we were able to write an addendum and get it back! So we will soon have a 4 bedroom, single family house with a yard! Woo hoo! I'm way too excited. Now we have to pack...

sheep and wool

I am really starting to get excited about Maryland sheep and wool! I have to say I'm very lucky to live only about 20-30 minutes away from the Howard county fairgrounds! My mom is coming down, and we'll spend all day saturday there. I can't wait! I am starting to get ideas for what I want to buy (and should buy...since of course I want to buy more than I should). I'm definitely buying some gifts too!

I ordered my Knitbloggers Ball T-shirt today, which I can't wait to get. I wasn't going to, but decided that it would make it much easier to decide what to wear then, and thought it would be fun to have. I'm so proud to be a geek. ;) I'm just really looking forward to actually meeting some fellow knitbloggers!

No more knitting content, been hanging, working, and being a mom in the lovely 80 degree Maryland weather!!

plowing through!

I started my top for Tess' Designer Yarns last friday, and wow am I moving along! I'm close to done with the back already! It's looking so pretty too! I really like working with the microfiber ribbon, I can't wait to get some for myself!

Not much else going on, just waiting to hear on house stuff. There is a couple that is interested in buying our place, but they're working on getting the financing in order first. Sigh. I know it will work out for the best, it just might not be how I want it to work out. We'll see.

yum yummy!!

I finally cast on for the infamous Jaywalker socks, with my new Lorna's Laces sock yarn (the purple/green that I bought in Nashville)! All I can say is WOW, this is the best sock yarn ever! It's so soft, and I LOVE IT!!

knitting content

Last year at MS&W, I fell in love with Tess Designer Yarns. I was trying to behave, so I didn't buy any of their yarn. When I got home I immediately regretted it, and had to find the name of the place who had the beautifully dyed yarn! I knew it had Designer yarns in the title, so I found it pretty easily from the Vendors page. I found their website, and every so often I would go and look at the colors and yarns and dream about what I wanted to get this year. Finally, I decided to make a purchase from their store. The owner was wonderful to deal with, and told me about some pretty new colors she had dyed that suited what I was looking for. The package should go out in the next few days and arrive next week! The other cool thing, is that yesterday, when I was daydreaming again while browsing, I noticed a banner flashing on their webpage saying that she was looking for sample knitters! So right away I e-mailed her saying that I was interested. She e-mailed me back and said to call her so we could talk about it! I'm going to be a sample knitter for Tess' Designer Yarns!! I"m so excited! And even better, I get paid in Yarn! She is sending me my first project, that I will bring to her at MS&W this year, it's in microfiber ribbon, which I"ve been really wanting to try. I can't wait for my package to come in now! Woo hoo!!

SP8 and other stuff

SP8 signups started on April 1, and already we have almost 300 participants signed up! I'm really impressed at how many people are signing up, it's going to be an AWESOME round! If you're looking for info on SP8, check out our website!!

A few weeks back I was talking with a friend who does stained glass as a hobby, and every so often she does craft fairs. So she asked me if I"d like to share a table at one in May! I'm definitely doing it, the entry fee wasn't too bad, and it is a 2 day festival! I'm working on getting some more bracelets and cards together, along with LOTS of stitch markers. I want to have LOADS ready for the start of SP8 (since I"ll again be offering a discount!) and for the fair.

On the house front, things have stalled a little. When we signed the contracts, we asked for 45 days to sell our townhouse, which we thought would be more than enough. Apparently the market is a little slow to get started up for spring, and we haven't gotten ANY offers yet. I'm really getting stressed now, because in 8 days, we lose the contract on the "perfect" house. Keep your fingers crossed for us that we sell the house really quickly! If not, then this house was not meant to be ours and we'll find something else when we finally do sell.

Oh my goodness!!!

I came home to a wonderful surprise!!! The last package from my AMAZING secret pal Kelly!!! I can't thank you enough for everything you've done for me, you really did your research and found things that I LOVE!!!

I opened the package to find a gorgeous green and pink bag, and a letter that said I was about to open my Emergency Kit for moving! I looked through it, and here is what I found:














This, is a cool sewing kit, to help with my quilting, knitting and all that! I love the designs, so pretty!













This shows a cool CD that Kelly put together for me, the pink/green/purple striped bag and needle case, which are great! I've been wanting to make one myself, but my fabric is in storage right now! The magic loop book and really pretty sock yarn, to work on while we're packing/moving for a small project!
















And here is a chocolate care bear, chalk animals for Celia, a CD case, some cute rubons for my card-making,










And here, are some ducks for Celia (who LOVES ducks), Twizzlers, which are my favorite candy, a beautiful beaded bag with really pretty stitch markers, darning needles, and needle covers, all of which are sitting on my pretty new needle case (did I mention that I love it!!). I am so amazed at the generosity of my pal, I'm such a lucky woman!!

New look!

I've been wanting to change my blog's look for a long time now, and one of the other SP8 hostesses posted to our group looking for advice on doing just that. Then, Katie said that she'd be happy to design something for her since she's going to school for design! So I jumped on the bandwagon and asked her to design something for my blog! She did an amazing job! I absolutely love the banner! My husband spent a little time this afternoon and helped me fix up the rest of it so the colors coordinated a little. Thanks so much Katie!!!

I love my daughter more than everything, but she drives me crazy every time she comes home sick. In Tennessee, I noticed that she was really congested, and by the time we got her home, she was very cranky and coughing a lot. So I took her to the doctor on monday, and the doctor said that she had strep throat. Again. So, wednesday morning when I woke up with a sore throat, I wasn't the least bit surprised. Went to the doctor first thing, and I was right= I also had strep. last week I only worked tuesday and wednesday, and this week, I only worked tuesday so far, and am going to work tomorrow. This sucks, since I have very little vacation time left. And I hate getting strep! I'm now 3 for 3 with Celia- she's had it 3 times, and given it to me all of the three times. Lucky me.

At least being home gives me a littel time to knit. I started a sweater for Celia out of the purple Cascade Superwash I bought in Tennessee, and started my second sock from this bright sock yarn I bought a while ago- my March Project Spectrum project, since it has hot pink in it.

stash enhancement

We got to Nashville thursday morning and did some sight seeing. After lunch we headed to the hotel in hopes that we'd be able to check in, which thankfully we were! After we got to our room, I left- to go shopping! I had googled for yarn shops nearby, and found one about 10 minutes from our hotel in Franklin. I drove up, and was really impressed! I checked out Threaded Bliss Yarns in Brentwood. I was greeted by friendly people the second I walked in! After browsing, and finding some yummy cascade superwash for a sweater for my daughter, and some absolutely gorgeous Lorna's Laces sock yarn for myself (which they kindly would for me on the coolest swift!), I headed home. I must say, thanks google for finding the shop for me, it was really great!!

ouch

This weekend started out great! We got to party friday night at a work party, see lots of friends andhad a blast.

Saturday was good, we relaxed abit, watched a movie, and cleaned for the open house Sunday.

Sunday started off good. Then we left once the agent arrived for the open house. Then we got into a car accident. About a minute from home. An idiot drove through a stop sign without stopping, and ran into me. Thank goodness myself, my husband and daughter are all ok. The car is not, we don't know how much damage but it really didn't look good. I'm very sore today, and stayed home to keep an eye on my daughter, who seems fine but I wanted to make sure- since I hurt a lot more today than I did yesterday. It's really not hurt, it's more soreness/stiffness.

So that was my weekend. I'm going to rest now.

Thank You SP!!

I just realized what an A$$ I am! I received an aweosme package from my pal on monday, and I completely forgot to post on it! Such a slacker I am, I'm sorry pal!

I opened up this box, to find lots of COOL stuff! First was the copy of Peter Rabbit, which Celia grabbed immediately and ran around saying "rabbit"!! Then were the two chocolate bars, which I'm really excited about, I love chocolate! Then was this really pretty green handpainted yarn, and a pattern suggestion for Branching Out- which I've been really wanting to make! Plus the card with more info. I have pics on my camera and will upload tonight. THANKS SO MUCH!!!

Nashville, here I come!

Next weekend, my brother is getting married! We're all heading down to Nashville for the wedding, and are going down a day early. I've already found 2 Yarn shops I want to check out! Naughty, naughty! We should have time when we get in thursday, so I'm really excited. I can't wait to get away for a few days. I need a break!

house stuff

It's been a crazy weekend! Friday night I went to a party for a bit at a co-workers apartment. Unfortunately Celia crashed and we had to leave before dinner even started! I had planned on going back after I dropped her off at home, but when I arrived home, my SIL and BIL were there! I didn't expect them until after 10, and was happy that they were early! Sadly I called my friend and told her that I couldn't come back, she was disappointed, but since I see Carolyn and Tom just a few times a year, I wanted to spend some time with them.

Yesterday we had our home inspection! Thankfully all is good, no major damage, just a few little things to take care of. It's really looking like this will be the house! I'm WAY too excited, and I'm starting to get attatched. I shall upload a pic of the house, and one of my Soon-To-Be Craft area!

finally, some progress!

Since I've packed up my stash (sniff, sniff!), I have been working on just one project (besides the Flower Basket Shawl that I haven't touched in two weeks). The one project has actually been one I've been meaning to do for a while. I started making more squares for my SnB's charity blanket project. I had taken a grouping of squares to put together, but since there weren't enough squares for a whole blanket (yes, i did do that on purpose), I'm finishing it up! And I lvoe the instant gratification of finishing squares.

busy!

Unfortunately I don't have enough time in every day! I have hardly had time to do much more than clean the house! In the last week, a lot has happened. We listed our townhouse on the market, we put in an offer on a house- which was accepted!, and we're getting ready for an open house. We also had a wine tasting party friday night after work, which was a lot of fun. Definitely tried a lot of new wines, and had a great time.

Last night, Nathan and I celebrated our 4th wedding anniversary, by going to The Melting Pot. I had always wanted to go there, but finally got there last night. The food was incredible! We had a blast, and were completely stuffed when we left. I don't want to know how many points I ate, but I'll behave from now on. It was SO worth it.

hang my head in defeat.

Welll, I didn't make it. I haven't had time in a week to work on my Flower Basket Shawl for the Knitting Olympics. I feel terrible that I didn't finish my project, but I did learn a lot about myself in the process:

1) I am capable of anything I set my mind to, except for when unexpected things come up.

2) My family is very important to me, much more important to me than spending time knitting.

3) Lace is awesome. I loved getting it started, and will finish.

4) Sometimes just challenging myself makes a difference. The KO did inspire me to start my project, and I actually did get started. I even got a bit into it! I was so hesitant to start the lace, butt am glad that I did. I don't thought I was "experienced" enough to do lace, but I am, and it looks great. Not perfect, but pretty darn good!

moving along

My flower basket shawl has sadly taken a back burner. We have decided to sell our townhouse and buy a single family home, so that has taken over. This weekend we painted our living room white (bye bye purple!), and moved somethings into storage. Another weekend of hard work and we should be able to get the house on the market.

I'm posting a picture of my shawl, or what I have of it so far. I have decided that there is no way I'm going to be able to complete it in the time left, but I will still work on it in my spare time. Unfortunately there doesn't seem to be much of that this week. After about 3 hours of work, this is where I'm at:



I really love how it's turning out. There are definitely some mistakes here and there, but overall I'm very pleased with my progress- considering I started and had to rip out about 30 rows only to start again. I love the color of this Knitpicks Shadow yarn. So soft and beautiful.

Well, I'm not declaring defeat yet, I'm just not sure how much further I'll get on this. As far as I'm concerned, I started it, and am moving along, which is what I was hoping for in the first place.

Prices Reduced!

Since I've only had one order on my etsy store, I've decided to reduce prices a little bit! I've added a few more cards, and I have multiples of most stitch marker sets. Check them out at My Etsy Store!

Have a great long weekend for those of you who have monday off! I'll be spending my time packing. I already packed up my stash- two bins full! I did leave out enough to work on a few projects over the next few months, and I'm hoping it's enough! I need to sort out all of my beads, fabric and other crafty stuff and get things organized. I'm going to have to put a lot of my scrapbook stuff away too. I can keep out as much as will fit in my big CM bag, thankfully it's a lot.

Getting ready to sell a townhouse is so much fun!

Who has the BEST secret pal??!!

I do, I do!! I got home from work to a wonderful surprise! I knew my pal had sent a package but I didn't expect it yet! Inside, was this:




Here are close up's of everything:
First I opened up what was wrapped in tissue paper...labelled "here are some supplies for your new business":



I absolutely love the green and brown beads! So beautiful! I am definitely going to make some great thigns with them. Then there is the yarn charm, which I am definitely keeping for myself! I've been looking for one to use on the bracelet that I use to keep track of points for WW.

Then there were some cute notecards with a sweater, yarn and needles on them. Perfect!



And then, the coolest part: A SPINNING KIT!!! I've been dying to learn how, but haven't gotten a chance to get a drop spindle yet. This is so great, I can't wait to use it. And a fun fact, the sheep who's fleece I'll be spinning, is named Oreo- only my favorite cookie in the world!




So, a huge THANK YOU goes out to my Secret Pal! I am so glad that you are feeling better! You really did your research and definitely picked out some awesome gifts. You made my day!!

back on track

I'm back on track for the Flower Basket Shawl. It may end up being th size that will fit a 2 year old at the pace I'm going, but i'm ok with that! It looks great! I did make a little mistake last night, I must have forgotten to do a yo or something, but that's ok. I found a place that looked like it was lacking, and added in a stitch. We'll see how it turns out, I'm getting excited to see how it looks. I'm finally at the point again where I was when I frogged it. I'll post a picture later tonight if I remember!

knitter down!

Ok, so my olympics progress hasn't been very good over the weekend. Yesterday afternoon, I realized that I made a mistake early on, and that the shawl was horrible. I thankfully hadn't done that much on it, so I frogged what I had done, and have just started over on my lunch break. This time I'm using lifelines, for sure.

Project Spectrum

I saw this:



On Saun's blog, and decided it sounded like a great idea! Always looking for ways to use colors that I don't use every day! It's being organized by Lolly, who is brilliant for coming up with this idea! Thanks so much!!

Fun stuff

I haven't done much knitting in the last week, since I'm trying to give my hands a rest before the Knitting Olympics start up. I have however been very busy making cards, and stitch markers- some of which are on my Etsy store site, and others are waiting to be uploaded sometime this weekend.

And, last night I went to a stamping party for The Angel Company. It was a lot of fun, and we made two cards and a little candy bag with a valentines day label. And I got to close out my book party. I ended up being naughty (but not too naughty) and got some great things for half price, lots of free stamp sets, plus a few that I'm going to use in making cards for my Etsy store. I can't wait for it all to come in now!

Other news, we may move! We're talking about selling our townhouse and upgrading to either a single family home, or a much bigger townhouse. This would be awesome! 4 BR, or 3BR plus a den is a must! I'd actually have an "office/craft room/guest room, plus a room for Celia, and one for once we actually have an other baby. I'm really excited about this, and if there was ever a good time to do it, it would be now! We meet with a realtor on monday night, so keep your fingers crossed for us!

Official Team Status

I've decided on a team to support for the Knitting Olympics. It's going to be:

Even though I don't live in Buffalo anymore, I will always be a Buffalo girl at heart!! Support the home team!!

I've got my needles ready, and can't wait to cast on!!

Check this out!!

My friend Lisa started an online store! She's posted some of her beautiful handmade cards, some are perfect for Valentines day!! Bella Rose Creations is the place to go!!

More stitch markers added!

I have added several more Stitch Markers to my Etsy store! Check them out!!

And, I finally got gauge on my Flower Basket shawl. I'm going to have to go up to a US10, but it works. I still can't believe I had to go up so high, I think it recommended size 5. I'll post pics once I get started. I really love the color I chose.

For my mom's socks, I just started the heel flap, so I'm about half done with the second sock! Definitely will be done by the time she comes down for Celia's birthday.

swatches.

Last night, I spent some time organizing my craft area. I un-strung all of the beautiful crystal and glass beads I got yesterday! A co-worker and I went on a little shopping expedition over lunch yesterday to an amazing bead shop! It's confusing in that it's labelled as a candle store, but you look in the window and there are strings upon strings of beads hanging all over the place! They have lots of neat round nubby glass beads in tons of colors, animal glass beads, and hundreds of crystal ones. I was in heaven, and I managed not to spend too much money but got a load for my collection so I can make tons more stitch markers and some bracelets.

After I organized, I decided it was time to do a swatch for my Flower Basket Shawl for the Knitting Olympics. I did my 4 inch square and then measured it. WAY too small. It is supposed to be 20 stitches to 4", and I had maybe 3". So I went up a size and started to re-do my swatch. I noticed pretty quickly that it was again too small. So the pattern calls for size 5 needles with lace weight yarn. I think I'm going to use at least size 7, or maybe up to size 8! This is crazy! Has anyone else had this problem??

Taking the plunge

For a few weeks, I've been making sets of stitch markers in my spare time. I had gone to the local bead store (which has amazing beads!) and picked some beautiful glass beads that I thought would be neat as stitch markers. Since I love to do crafty things, I decided to open up a little online store to sell them. This allows me to make more, instead of having a stock pile of enough for 20 people! And I've also recently started making cards too, so I decided to throw some of those up to see if they take off. I love them! There will be a lot more over the next few weeks, I just wanted to get things rolling.

My store is here: Shelby's Stitch Markers and Cards. I'm offering a special to all participants of SP7! I'm giving a 10% discount and free shipping, plus I'll gift wrap and fill out a gift tag, as well as ship directly to your pal if you'd like. I hope you like them, I had a blast making them!

Stash enhancement

I finally went over to Woolwinders this afternoon to use the gift certificate that my mom got me for Christmas. I think I was there for at least 45 minutes trying to decide what to get! I knew that I wanted some Koigu for socks, and that I wanted to get some Noro to try (I love the colors). I had so much fun looking at everything, coming up with ideas of what to make with things, and here is what I settled on:



I got some Regina sock yarn, Noro Silk Garden for a scarf (I think), two skeins of Wool In the Woods, (I'm not sure what I'll use this for yet), and two different colors of Koigu for socks for me! I made Celia a sweater out of Koigu a while back and it is so soft! I am totally spoiling myself with that. ;) Then the three buttons in the baggie are for this:



Then after I put everything away, I took a picture of my stash. And the funny thing is that I have a plan for just about everything in there! Now I'm DONE buying yarn until S&W. :)

YAY!!!

I'm SO excited! I just got the ticket confirmation that my mom is coming down to go to the Maryland Sheep and Wool Festival!!! I'm so excited! Last year when I went I couldn't help but think how much she'd love it, and I'm thrilled that she's going to come down for it! Loads of yarn will be had!

misc

The four team's I'm debating between for the Knitting Olympics. I am sure that caffeine, chocolate and merlot will all be consumed throughout my two weeks! Then there is the national loyalty. So I'm thinking, and will make a decision soon!

SP6!! Thank you!!

I'm finally posting a picture that is LONG due! A while ago I received my last package from my SP6! I already blogged about it, the subscription to Interweave Knits (I got the first issue a few weeks ago and have added several projects to the To Do list), the Vogue knitting accessories book, measuring tape and pendant cutter. Here is the pic of my gifts!




Thanks Angella!!!

3 buttons and a C

I'm almost done with my daughter's alphabet sweater!! It looks fantastic! It is obviously a little longer in the back but it actually isn't too bad. I am so proud of it, and can't wait for her to wear it. I'm definitely posting a pic as soon as I buy and sew on buttons!

Knitting Olympics

I was inspired by Yarn Harlot to join her
Knitting Olympics I'm really excited about it, I'm taking the opportunity to finally do the Flower Basket Shawl that I bought the yarn/pattern for months ago but have been afraid to touch. This should be fun!

It's friday!!

Last night, I made it to SnB for the first time in a long time! I'm hoping to start going every week now that my husband is getting home at 5:15 instead of 7. I had an awesome time, and I even finished the first of my mom's socks. Now just 1 more to go!

Last night after I got back, I picked up the Alphabet sweater, and started picking up the stitches for the collar. I got one row knit up, and ran out of the skein I was using. I put it down since it was late anyways, and went to bed. This morning I went to my stash and looked for the last ball of yarn, and I can't find it anywhere! I am going to have to count tonight, but I think I may have used all of the yarn up. If that's the case, I'm not sure what I'll do because I doubt I'll be able to find the same dye lot, and I only have a bit left to knit, and then I need to sew it togheter. I'm hoping to find the last ball tonight when tearing my stash apart.

happy, happy, joy, joy!!

Yay!!! Happy day!! My husband, whom I love dearly, starts his new job today! AND, it's only 10 minutes from our house! You have no idea how much this means. Up through last week, Nathan worked in Fairfax, VA. Which doesn't seem like it would be that far away, about 35 minutes in no traffic. But add rush hour onto it, and it makes for a LONG, hour long drive into work, and hour and twenty minute drive home at night. He would get home at 6:15-6:30 on a good day, closer to 7 if it rained. Now, he'll be leaving later (which means more morning time with Celia!), and getting home earlier, closer to 5!! I'm so excited that I'll actually be able to spend time with my husband now! And he's going to be able to see his daughter in the evenings when she's in a good mood and not just twenty minutes before she crashes for the night.

This will change our lives in many ways. One of them is that I'll actually be able to join in on the NoMoCo SNB again! I haven't been in months, since Nathan's commute got bad once school started again. I am really looking forward to going to Panera again on thursday nights. I had met some really neat people, and I can't wait to see them again.

FO update: I felted my booga bag! I absolutely love how it turned out! I thought it would have shrunk much more but it's still a good sized bag. Not too big, and not too small. I LOVE it! I'll post pictures tonight, really I will!!

Lots of progress

One sure fire way to get lots of progress done on many WIPs is to come down with Strep throat. I was home with my sick daughter monday and tuesday, and then went back to work wednesday. Thursday morning I knew instantly that I was sick, so I was home thurs and friday. Thankfully I slept a lot, and did some work from home- but the most exciting part was to veg, and knit. I managed to get most of one sock done, part of the pair I"m making for my mom out of Knitpicks Parade yarn, and I really like working with this yarn! It goes fast, I got gauge on US3 DPNs, and I love the colors of the stripes. Thankfully my mom's feet are way smaller than mine, so keeping them for myself really isn't an option. ;)

I've gotten out all of my matches for SP7, mainly done early last week. No major issues yet, which is great, though I expect to be more busy after the next few weeks when things are going well. I think I'm going to try to hostess again next round, I'm having so much fun this time. It's neat to get to meet so many other people from all over in this process. Definitely fun...at least so far.

Last night, we went out! Our friend Rob came and watched Celia while Nathan and I went out for dinner. Nathan chose a Seafood restaurant, which was incredible. We were done at 7 and decided that it would be really pathetic ot head home right then, so we went wandering around the mall for a bit. Home by 8:30, which was at least a little respectable. Thankfully Celia was in good hands, and she was sound asleep when we arrived home.

I wish I was one of the lucky ones to have tomorrow off, but nope. I have to work. Bah humbug.

heartbreaking.

I finally finished the front to my daughter's Alphabet Sweater (from one of Debbie Bliss' books)!! I went to sew the shoulder together, and I noticed something odd, the front is MUCH smaller than the back. I look at the cables, and there are the same number of twists. Then I look at the tightness of the stitches. This is where my problem is! I love this sweater so much, and I've taken about 6 months to make it, maybe more. Apparently in the time I've been knitting this sweater, my knitting style has changed a bit. I'm much tighter of a knitter. The back is probably two inches wider and longer than the front. Unfortunately this sweater has taken a long time, and I need to put it together now, instead of re-knit the back or front to match. Just my luck. I am not sure if it will work, but I"ll try anything.

Fun stuff!

I'm having so much fun picking pals for my group! I'm just about done, and will hopefully get my e-mails out tonight/tomorrow! It's cool to learn about new people and being a hostess seems to be a great way to do that! I'm so glad (for now) that I signed up to be a hostess.

My SP7 Questionnaire!!!

1. Are you a yarn snob (do you prefer higher quality and/or natural fibers)? Do you avoid Red Heart and Lion Brand?
My name is Shelby and I'm a yarn snob. It's sad, but true. Though I am a strong believer that every yarn has it's place.

2. Do you spin? Crochet?
I don't do either, but am DYING to learn how to spin.

3. What do you use to store your needles/hooks in?
a drawer in a plastic wheel cabinet.

4. How long have you been knitting? Would you consider your skill level to be beginner, intermediate or advanced?
I've reallly been knitting for a year and a half. I'd say I'm intermediate skill level.

5. Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list?
I have an amazon wishlist.

6. What's your favorite scent? (for candles, bath products etc.)
vanilla, floral, citrus, most anything. My favorite is Bath and Body Works Aromatherapy Lavendar Vanilla.

7. Do you have a sweet tooth? Favorite candy?
Yes, yes, yes!!! I love orange chocolate, anything chocolate peanut butter or chocolate-caramel, sweet tarts, starburst and twizzlers.

8. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do?
scrapbooking, card making, photography, quilting, and of course knitting.

9. What kind of music do you like? Can your computer/stereo play MP3s? (if your buddy wants to make you a CD)
I tend to like canadian bands, like Barenaked Ladies, Great Big Sea, and I also love They Might Be Giants, Dave Matthews and the like.

10. What's your favorite color? Or--do you have a color family/season/palette you prefer? Any colors you just can't stand?
Blues, purples, greens, browns and greys are my fave's. I hate orange and yellow.

11. What is your family situation? Do you have any pets?
married with one daughter (almost 2 years old), and 2 cats (almost 4 years old).

12. Do you wear scarves, hats, mittens or ponchos?
Yup!

13. What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with?
anything soft. I love Manos, and I've been in a handpainted yarn kick lately. And I'm loving all I've ordered from KnitPicks.

14. What fibers do you absolutely *not* like?
anything scratchy. And most acrylics.

15. What is/are your current knitting obsession/s?
scarves, fingerless gloves, socks.

16. What is/are your favorite item/s to knit?
baby sweaters for my daughter, socks, fingerless gloves, scarves

17. What are you knitting right now?
Too many things to count. Three baby sweaters, Clapotis, a poncho, Flower Basket Shawl, socks, several scarves, and several others that I can't remember.

18. Do you like to receive handmade gifts?
YES! Especially socks, or things that use skills I haven't figured out yet.

19. Do you prefer straight or circular needles?
Circular

20. Bamboo, aluminum, plastic?
bamboo

21. Do you own a yarn winder and/or swift?
nope.

22. How did you learn to knit?
My aunt taught me when I was 5. I picked it up on and off for years, but it stuck last year.

23. How old is your oldest UFO?
1 year

24. What is your favorite animated character or a favorite animal/bird?
poodles. I had 2 growing up and LOVE them!

25. What is your favorite holiday?
thanksgiving.

26. Is there anything that you collect?
yarn, cool fabrics, rubber stamps.

27. What knitting magazine subscriptions do you have?
Interweave Knits (thanks to my SP6 Angella!).

28. Any books, yarns, needles or patterns out there you are dying to get your hands on?
circs for magic loop or socks on circs, yarns would be manos or koigu

29. Are there any new techniques you'd like to learn?
magic loop or socks on circs, more aran techniques, and lace

30. Are you a sock knitter? What are your foot measurements?
I"m trying to be. I have a size 10 wide foot-thanks to having my daughter

31. When is your birthday? (mm/dd)
06/25

32. Allergies?
I'm allergic to hayfever, and cigarette smoke- it gives me nasty migranes.

crap

I'm sick. I really hate being sick. I was feeling so crappy that I even went to the doctors. I had the same thing three months back, and they gave me a shot (which I hadn't had since I was little), and oral antibiotics. Well, this morning I woke up and knew I was sick again so as soon as I could break away from meetings at work, I called and made an appointment. There was no way I was going to be stuck over a weekend again having to go to a clinic and pay out of the nose for service because they are "not participating" in my insurance plan. I stopped at the store on my way home, and got my script filled, and did some shopping. I got home and did the sort of the SP7 participants, and by the time I was done, I was so nauseous. I forgot that some antibiotics do that to me, especialy strong ones. So I managed to lay down and watch TV for about 20 min before Nathan got home with Celia. Then I went upstairs and layed down. Mind you I was watching a re-run of Gilmore Girls on ABC family. This is one of my favorite shows. I never let anything interrupt it, so you know I'm not feeling well. I came upstairs and got under the flannel sheets, freezing. I definitely have a little bit of a fever (100.4). AND I got my first of 2 packages from Amazon.com today, including "At Knits End, meditations for women who knit too much", and my head hurts so I can't really read much (though I did get through 40 pages). I'm going to bed. And hopefully will feel better tomorrow, but I'm not holding my breath. Sometimes I really hate being a woman.

Happy New Year!

We had a wonderful time in Buffalo! It was really good to get there and see everyone and we had a very productive visit! Unfortunately before we left on thursday to head up, I noticed that my knee was really tight a bit sore. By the time I got to Buffalo (after doing about 5 hours of the 7 hours of driving), my knee was swollen to the size of an orange. After I went dress shopping (I'm the matron of honor in my friend's wedding), my knee was so swollen that I could hardly walk. It was like that through today, and is finally starting to reduce a bit. I can actually put osme weight on it now without too much trouble. I will probably still need to use crutches for a day or two, but at least it's getting better. Needless to say, it's my right knee so I managed to get a lot of knitting done int he car yesterday on the way back to maryland. I got most of a scarf done, and most of Celia's hat. Both are projects that I started in the last few weeks, but really wanted to get done. Of course, I'd post pictures but I managed to leave my digital camera in Buffalo at my mom's house. So I have to wait for UPS to deliver it for me. Then I'll post pics!

When I was home, my mom asked me to make a pair of socks for her. I ordered some yarn from Knitpicks last night so I can make the socks. Of course, so I can avoid shipping costs, I ordered some more double pointed needles in sizes I've been needing (since they were on sale!), and some sock yarn for me too. I will not post pics of her socks or yarn until she receives the socks (hopefully for her birthday in a month).

Happy day!!!

I love my Secret pal!! I got my last two packages in the mail today! The first one was at my doorstep when I walked in the house. I brought it in and opened it to find Vogue Knitting - Accessorize, which is an awesome book with scarves, hats, ponchos, socks and mittens. Then there was a cute sheep tape measure, and the cutting pendant that I"ve been eyeing for a while. I was so psyched to see a package for me! Then I flip through the mail, and see a post card. I look closer, to see that it's a gift subscription for Interweave Knits!! My favorite magazine! I'm flying high today! Thank you so much Angela! You made SP6 awesome! I am so lucky to have had great pals in both SP5 and SP6. I can only hope that the ones I spoiled feel the same way (and from what they said on their blogs, I think they did! I came home early to get some work done from home, making power point presentations is much faster for me wtih no distractions. But I think I may just have to look through my new book first... ;)

time to felt.

I finished the strap for my Booga bag last night. Now all I have to do is felt it! I'm nervous and excited at the same time. I'll have to post some before and after pics soon.

Christmas was really nice. We stayed in Maryland this year, which is a first. We've always drivin up to Buffalo and spent the holidays with family. I'm so glad we stayed here, it gave us a chance to start some of our own traditions with Celia. She was so excited to come downstairs and see the presents that Santa left. The first thing she asked about that morning when I came to her room was Cookies Santa and Milk Santa since we had left them for Santa the night before. It was really sweet. Celia loved to open her presents, she kept shouting "OTEN!!" (her word for open). Then we relaxed, and had neighbors over for dinner. And relaxed some more. Nathan got poker chips (set of 600 clay ones) and a poker table top from me and Celia, so we broke them in. I took him for all of his chips. ;) I wish we were playing for money, because I was lucky!

I got some cool knitting supplies for gifts too. My in-laws sent me some pretty yarn, LB suede in this cool green/purple/blue colors, along with size 10 circs and size 3 DPNs- both in bamboo. And my sister-in-law and her hubby sent the 2006 knitting pattern a day calendar. So many neat patterns that I can't wait to try!

SP6

I heard from my SP yesterday and she's ordered my second and third gifts to be sent soon! I'm so excited to hear that her finals are over! I remember the stress that came with finals. She also revealed herself to me. Her name is Angella, and her blog is Katgrrl She seems really cool, go check it out!

And this is the scarf that I made for Heather, my brother's fiance'. I really hope she likes it! I just love the colors of this manos colorway!!








Here is a pic of clapotis, which I'm making from some lovely yarn from Dancing Leaf farms. I fell in love with these colors, they are my new favorite combo.

Yay!

My husband has been looking for a job closer to home. Currently he has a one hour commute in the morning and about one hour twenty minutes at least in the evening- not much fun. And it leaves little time that he gets to spend with our daughter during the week. He had two interviews yesterday, and got an offer today! That was fast. Yay!!

stupid

I just realized that I posted my last post on the SP7 blog. Sorry about that, who knows where my head was this morning. Thinking about the Manos I guess.

I'm weak

I bought a skein of manos a few weeks ago for a gift. I've been looking at it every day, and telling myself...No. You can't touch it. It's a gift for your mom. Well, that went out the window the other night. I grabbed it and started balling it after spending all day at home with a sick kid. I started making a scarf, and I really didin't like how it was coming out. So I frogged it. I started another scarf, but wasn't what I wanted either, so I frogged it again. Then I decided to do it lengthways, instead. So I cast on 100 stitches, and started going. After a few rows, I realized it wasn't really long enough. So I frogged it again. Finally, I'm about 3/4 of the way done with a pretty scarf. I'm going to give it to my future Sister-in-law for a christmas gift. Really, I am. I think. Though the colors are so pretty... No...it's a gift!!! Argh!!

Tagged!

I"ve been tagged by Saun, whom I had the pleasure of spoiling during SP6!

Song Meme

List seven songs you are into right now. No matter what the genre, whether they have words, or even if they're any good, but they must be songs you're really enjoying now. Post these instructions in your blog along with your seven songs. Then tag seven other people to see what they're listening to.

Love- Great Big Sea
Aluminium- Barenaked Ladies
Elf's Lament- Barenaked Ladies
Something Beautiful- Great Big Sea
The House at the Top of the Tree- They Might Be Giants
Birdhouse in your Soul- They Might Be Giants
Airport- Guster

I tag:
The SP7 hostesses...you know who you are!
Anyone else who reads this blog...just please leave a comment so I can see your answers!!

bah humbug

I'm just not in the Christmas spirit this year. You'd think I would be, with a little girl who is starting to get excited about the 'yites' on the tree, and 'Tanta. I'm sick of the cold, crappy weather and all of the shopping (who would have thought those words would come out of my mouth). We are in the middle of a snow/ice/mix storm, which is loads of fun. When I left Buffalo, I left the massive amounts of snow. No more waking up to a foot to brush off the car and go to work. But in lovely Maryland, we get sleet and ice much more often than snow. I don't mind driving in snow at all, it's easy! The ice is what makes me nervous. There is just no control on ice. So I stay home when I can, which means that today when I was home with my daughter (who is still sick), I couldn't go to the store, or target, or anything. I could have gotten some little shopping done for Celia's daycare teachers, but No. I had to stay inside because it's risky. I don't mind driving in ice if it's just me, but when Celia is in the car I hate to take risks.

Anyway, I'm done. I just want New Years to get here so I can put it all behind me. It's my first year away from home at Christmas, and while it's my decision and what i wanted to do, it's still hard. I hate the holidays.

all about me

Thought this would be fun.

TEN random things you might not know about me:

I am a Buffalo girl at heart.
I hate snow.
I hate getting dressed up- I am happiest in jeans and a T-shirt.
I love roller coasters, the higher and faster the better.
I am a hopeless romantic.
I am a chocoholic, especially orange chocolate.
I love red wine.
I have no patience for immiturity.
I have seen Niagara Falls hundredes of times, but it still amazes me.
I'm as blind as a bat.

NINE Places I have Visited

Budapest
London
Brussles
Amsterdam (but only for a half of a day so we could go to the Van Gogh museum)
Zurich
Rome
Florence
Nice
Paris

EIGHT Ways to Win My Heart

Have a warm smile
Make me laugh
Be open to new experiences
share dessert with me at dinner
put up with my crap
Bring me good coffee
Be funny
give massages.

SEVEN Things I Want to Do Before I Die

Watch Celia grow up
Have 2 or 3 more kids
Inspire someone, anyone
see the world
own a single family house with a yard
lose weight!
get a dog


SIX Things I'm Afraid Of

Cancer
bees
birds
Ok, anything that flies at you
not being able to see my daughter grow up
car accidents

FIVE Things I Don't Like

Liver
seafood
Rude people
arrogance
people who complain about everything and don't try to do anything about what's bugging them

FOUR Ways to Turn Me Off

push religion or politics on me
smell like garlic
be rude
have a temper

THREE Things I Do Everyday

sleep
kiss my daughter
kiss my husband

TWO Things That Make Me Happy

holding Celia
cats purring

One Thing on My Mind Right Now

Should I let Celia fuss or get her up even though she needs a nap?

home sick

My daughter is sick. Thankfully it's the first time in a while that she's actually been sick. I took her to the docor this morning and she has conjunctivitis in both eyes, a sinus infection and an ear infection. All she knows is that she's miserable and doesn't feel well. It's hard when she's sick because she doesn't understand what's wrong. She knows that her eyes hurt, and her nose is runny, but she really doesn't get it. Poor baby.

who can you be?

I'm still waiting to find out who was 'spoiling' me. I know that she is a student, and that she sent one package with a scarf and perfume. She said she'd send 2 more packages but I haven't heard anything in a while. I guess I'm really lucky that she actually e-mailed me to tell me she was going to be late in getting stuff out. It's way better than those who got bailed on.

Naughty, naughty!

I left work a little early last night to go and buy a few xmas gifts for friends I'm going to see this weekend. One of them is a knitter, so I went to Woolwinders for her gift. That was a big mistake! I walked in and saw that they must have recently gotten in a stock of Manos de Uraguay hand dyed wool. The colorways are amazing! It was so hard not to go crazy and buy loads of yarn, but I showed great restraint! I did buy a gift for my friend, plus a few things from the sale bin, one of which I needed for Celia's alphabet sweater, a contrasting cashmerino aran for the letter C on the front. The other was a ribbon yarn that I've been looking at wanting to try. Then...I couln'dt resist the Manos. I found a colorway that is perfect for my mom, so I bought only one skein. I haven't yet decided if I want to make something for her and give it to her, or if I should give her the skein to make something for herself. Any thoughts? What would you prefer??

Holidays

With the holiays coming up, I decided to try something different this year- I'm making my Christmas cards. Last night I got together with a friend, and I was able to get all 24 cards completed, while she worked on stamping some gift boxes (which are too cute!). I found some great paper at Michaels, and went to town. When you open the card, you'll find this picture of Celia in front of the tree. I loved it, so I had to include one per card. How I love my girl!!

Dancing Leaf and Kiparoo

This weekend, I met up with some of the ladies from the NoMoCo SnB, and we headed out to do some shopping at Dancing Leaf and Kiparoo Farms. Both raise sheep, and hand paint/dye their yarns. I must say that I was blown away by the colorways and yarns both places had. Everything was so beautiful it was hard to pick the few things that I did! I got a few gifts, which I won't talk about, and some beautiful purple and green dyed yarn that I'm going to make Clapotis out of. I started making a triangular shawl, and got bored pretty quickly just knitting, so I frogged and started Clapotis from Knitty. So far, so good, and I'm LOVING the colors how they are coming togheter.

For those of you who have asked about signing up for SP7, head over to secretpalseven.blogspot.com and follow the instructions posted. We are now accepting sing=ups for SP7!

SP7

I've decided to help host the next round of Secret Pal (SP7)! I have had fun the last two rounds that I've participated in, and decided to give back some. Besides, I like to organize things and this will give me the opportunity to help do that.

We're hoping to get things going soon for sign ups, and SP7 pals should be given out by mid January. This way, with the holidays coming up, everyone who wants to participate will have plenty of time to sing up. It should be loads of fun!