tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21441784394804188852024-03-04T22:58:23.852-08:00bedesistersKayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07699355538274389345noreply@blogger.comBlogger390125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2144178439480418885.post-83593578249183703762016-04-05T08:26:00.000-07:002016-04-05T08:26:09.772-07:00An announcement!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguHzqgLrzeu6oqLCxTUh9BF0WmUtTaKrAKewcK8e5summQwqT5b_mtXvDejzR6iwPQZ0gtxRYE72n0fxOnG2RgxcKinz8aOGdUGJRJcggsdRHRl_TJCLDXZ98rZWc5T4uEjRe3nc6kXWE/s1600/itunes+cover+art+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguHzqgLrzeu6oqLCxTUh9BF0WmUtTaKrAKewcK8e5summQwqT5b_mtXvDejzR6iwPQZ0gtxRYE72n0fxOnG2RgxcKinz8aOGdUGJRJcggsdRHRl_TJCLDXZ98rZWc5T4uEjRe3nc6kXWE/s320/itunes+cover+art+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The Bede Sisters Podcast is now available on iTunes! And there's a blog with show notes to go with it. Find me at <a href="http://bedesisterspodcast.blogspot.com/">http://bedesisterspodcast.blogspot.com/</a> <br />
<br />
I look forward to seeing you at my new blog!!Kayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07699355538274389345noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2144178439480418885.post-34630266335193542492015-04-09T06:33:00.002-07:002015-04-09T06:33:47.586-07:00Happy Spring!!Spring is in full bloom in South Carolina. The daffodils are pretty much done and the yellow jessamine is starting to fade already. My creeping phlox is at it's peak and even the oak and pecan trees are starting to leaf out. <br />
<br />
Another reason to be excited this spring is my upcoming trip to Minnesota. I will be attending the <a href="http://shepherdsharvestfestival.org/" target="_blank">Shepherd's Harvest Festival</a> in Lake Elmo, MN. Why would a South Carolina girl travel all the way to Minnesota for a fiber festival? First, it's a great festival with lots of fiber arts classes, fiber animals and wonderful vendors. Second, Minnesota in May is pretty great. Most of all though, I have friends there. These are people I've known for years as online fiber buddies. Shepherd's Harvest is special because I get to be with them, face to face, with loads of hugs and "squeeeees".<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">WIP's</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"></span><br />
<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/treebeard-socks" target="_blank">Treebeard Socks</a><br />
<br />
Yarn--Prime Sock from<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/OneTwistedTree" target="_blank"> One Twisted Tree</a> in the Entish Lore colorway<br />
Needles--US size 1, 2.25 <br />
<br />
First off, the yarn is gorgeous. It's from a new indie dyer, Danie of One Twisted Tree. The color is beautifully tonal, with rich color and subtle variation. The color name is taken from J.R.R. Tolkien, author of <em>The Hobbit</em> and <em>The Lord of the Rings</em>. Ents are characters from the books and are walking, talking trees. The pattern is inspired by Treebeard, an ent from the same books.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaWNXVtRtWXTfcT4beVB9reK73Edv_GZ5sP58DdUkKpHxLCIUHKEctjKPxXR7vwifnOzayjaR_INJBJCTZbx73qqU2D2rOIQlHBL3UJ7yVuzGAUg-oh68FeQ19PTo8TFi9mtcP7x0xMAU/s1600/entish_lore_yarn_medium.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaWNXVtRtWXTfcT4beVB9reK73Edv_GZ5sP58DdUkKpHxLCIUHKEctjKPxXR7vwifnOzayjaR_INJBJCTZbx73qqU2D2rOIQlHBL3UJ7yVuzGAUg-oh68FeQ19PTo8TFi9mtcP7x0xMAU/s1600/entish_lore_yarn_medium.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi__aPgP4sGUU5gFUsrO6ciAuw4utuatBze5-Km8TxebxI1E0QQZ2mfWaQQxas7_4kXY5Wo8725HcCTrixwZHiJDA3CluhYsQOizm0Jq97OwF5ixgadwUbOzWCfW3q0a7Rf8-e_sPpA56k/s1600/treebeard+sock+progress.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi__aPgP4sGUU5gFUsrO6ciAuw4utuatBze5-Km8TxebxI1E0QQZ2mfWaQQxas7_4kXY5Wo8725HcCTrixwZHiJDA3CluhYsQOizm0Jq97OwF5ixgadwUbOzWCfW3q0a7Rf8-e_sPpA56k/s1600/treebeard+sock+progress.jpg" height="320" width="239" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This pattern with this yarn? Clearly it's the perfect geeky collision.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">FO's</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"></span> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/hitchhiker" target="_blank">Hitchhiker</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Yarn-- Cascade Yarns Heritage Silk Paints, in colorway 9806<br />Needles-- US 4 - 3.5 mm</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I have one finished object, my Hitchhiker. It's getting a bit too warm in my neck of the woods to wear this shawlette, but I'm thinking it might feel pretty good in Minnesota this May. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The first photo shows the Hitchhiker in progress and captures the color really well. It's a variegated purple to pink fingering weight.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf4JWJzbQ8B9xM4a3V43lLafDljndpV9TEgb1PMS2x7QuaT0C0WcvWjMMZYsPV_1DRiE0cjk0FHv2K6sE-4JNdcVVK_Fj4eJzkPGzj10qguZYWZ0NWjNvKliekZw4q-xnJR3XIH2B9-3g/s1600/hitchhiker+progress+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf4JWJzbQ8B9xM4a3V43lLafDljndpV9TEgb1PMS2x7QuaT0C0WcvWjMMZYsPV_1DRiE0cjk0FHv2K6sE-4JNdcVVK_Fj4eJzkPGzj10qguZYWZ0NWjNvKliekZw4q-xnJR3XIH2B9-3g/s1600/hitchhiker+progress+2.jpg" height="320" width="239" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This is the completed shawlette, photographed just after weaving in ends. At this point, I haven't blocked it. I'm not sure if I will before wearing. It's a garter stitch pattern, so there's no pattern that needs blocking to be revealed, although it could be blocked to a larger size. I'll let you know if I change my mind.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhETPgs8KGNy9DctV3p5QxKIIcUboNPo1JyXZocalvefZxWTmpVsIaChee3B6ZcCd35cMeRwTVaYTvfiCUDVCjrXzhXmQWNNDs652OMRp-yeb3mrD8i_fyys9xoDAubb10TBuQ3x1h3o7g/s1600/hitchhiker+finished.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhETPgs8KGNy9DctV3p5QxKIIcUboNPo1JyXZocalvefZxWTmpVsIaChee3B6ZcCd35cMeRwTVaYTvfiCUDVCjrXzhXmQWNNDs652OMRp-yeb3mrD8i_fyys9xoDAubb10TBuQ3x1h3o7g/s1600/hitchhiker+finished.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Podcast Corner</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"></span><br />
Have you watched <a href="http://geekygirlsknit.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Geeky Girls Knit?</a> If not, get on it! They are a mother-daughter video podcast from Edinburgh, Scotland, by way of Texas. C.C. (mom) and Damaris (daughter) are from Texas and are currently living in Scotland while Mr. Geeky (known on the podcast as The Hubs) is going to school. <br />
<br />
C.C. and Damaris are adorable, funny and a joy to watch. Each week, they share not only their finished projects and works in progress, they talk about their favorite yarny acquisitions, current reads and television/movie obsessions. It's great fun to hear them geek out about Dr. Who and Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. <br />
<br />
In addition to a successful weekly podcast, C.C. is a talented designer. She has a new collection of Dr. Who inspired socks. I am determined to learn how to knit socks toe-up so I can have a go at all of them! <br />
<br />
Happy spring, everyone!Kayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07699355538274389345noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2144178439480418885.post-55061729251008341162015-03-17T16:49:00.001-07:002015-03-17T16:49:08.728-07:00Spring is here!It's definitely spring here in South Carolina. The daffodils have bloomed, the forsythia is very yellow and the Bradford pear trees are blossoming. Our lawn is even turning green. It's mostly weeds, but still, it's green.<br />
<br />
I've been doing a bit of knitting even though spring fever makes me want to play outside most of the time. Yesterday I skipped my run and went for a bike ride with the children. We went down our road to the local beaver pond and explored for a bit. It was glorious!<br />
<br />
On to knitting!<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><strong>FO's</strong></span><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: small;"></span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/rosamond" target="_blank">Rosamond socks</a></span></strong><br />
<strong></strong><br />
Yarn--Knit Picks Stroll Tonal in the Pearlescent Tonal<br />
Needles--US size 1, 2.25 mm, 9 inch circulars<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEian3CjKjpQ85U5NiycmyZxTgtVtPgsNge7FGrbTf-qFRnNxKWlhBizB_r1iJ6hnTDQD3lGH1PrwGhB_lGoJ_xa2CHwk5ILp51f3YTRTkoyVtucbXCBRzEM2x9e0QgVYUGzBL2B-no0dRY/s1600/rosamond+socks+pre-blocking.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEian3CjKjpQ85U5NiycmyZxTgtVtPgsNge7FGrbTf-qFRnNxKWlhBizB_r1iJ6hnTDQD3lGH1PrwGhB_lGoJ_xa2CHwk5ILp51f3YTRTkoyVtucbXCBRzEM2x9e0QgVYUGzBL2B-no0dRY/s1600/rosamond+socks+pre-blocking.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9Z2OqfNJJ8jNwJI0AViRjo1TZQqpHe0WVIXeX7wTFH9L_DahMyXd_dMfT2pn1KaKzV-dwCh6vHnp2G3aZmywBu9aFMvcV63jrxbhJ1fRHxPkAqVAVx2tshTWZCWSUAJMprWDMID23d_U/s1600/rosamond+socks+blocking.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9Z2OqfNJJ8jNwJI0AViRjo1TZQqpHe0WVIXeX7wTFH9L_DahMyXd_dMfT2pn1KaKzV-dwCh6vHnp2G3aZmywBu9aFMvcV63jrxbhJ1fRHxPkAqVAVx2tshTWZCWSUAJMprWDMID23d_U/s1600/rosamond+socks+blocking.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
The Rosamond socks are a free pattern on Ravelry. It's a beautiful lace pattern and not difficult at all. They are knit cuff down with a heel flap and gusset. The top photo was taken before blocking and the second was taken after. I don't normally block socks, but these were for a swap so I wanted to make sure they were very clean. It also relaxed the yarn and helped to show off the lace pattern.<br />
<br />
The recipient already has them and loves how girly they are. The lace certainly makes them feminine. I look forward to seeing the socks knit for me; the knitter has them done, I think, and almost ready to ship. Woo-hoo!<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><strong>WIP's</strong></span><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: x-large;"></span></strong><br />
Am I the last knitter on the planet to knit a Hitchhiker shawlette? There are over 18,000 Hitchhiker projects on Ravelry. It's very popular and now I know why. The pattern is simple but does a great job showing off a beautiful yarn. And because is mostly garter stitch, the fabric it creates is deliciously smooshy!<br />
<br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/hitchhiker" target="_blank">Hitchhiker</a></span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;"></span></strong><br />
Yarn-- Cascade Yarns Heritage Silk Paints, in colorway 9806<br />
<div class="value">
Needles-- US 4 - 3.5 mm</div>
<div class="value">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwoQDbRUGI4dtekZOyeKnDA8QeolB3XxotLHGaGXU5yDl8YXNH9GdfHnOADZv4yZoYw2nAUPOcQy6v8NkhvIGKpa_MlCwPN7gbyV26mg-p-yPLAgUk-3fWDQ23-d7xPS5LGpEe9aTkw3s/s1600/Hitchhiker+in+progress.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwoQDbRUGI4dtekZOyeKnDA8QeolB3XxotLHGaGXU5yDl8YXNH9GdfHnOADZv4yZoYw2nAUPOcQy6v8NkhvIGKpa_MlCwPN7gbyV26mg-p-yPLAgUk-3fWDQ23-d7xPS5LGpEe9aTkw3s/s1600/Hitchhiker+in+progress.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
The yarn is "souvenir yarn" from a trip to Hilton Head, SC, last summer. It's a beautiful variegated yarn that ranges from deep purple through pink and to pale lavender. I think I'm going to enjoy this shawlette very much. <br />
<br />
The only other WIP is the pair of ankle socks I'm knitting for me. They haven't gotten any attention this week, but I haven't completely forgotten them. They'll get done eventually.<br />
<br />
<strong><span style="font-size: x-large;">Podcast Corner</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: x-large;"></span></strong><br />
The podcast feature this week is <a href="http://thefatsquirrel.com/" target="_blank">The Fat Squirrel Speaks</a> hosted by Amy Beth. This may well be the funniest knitting podcast on the planet. Amy Beth never fails to make me giggle, if not outright guffaw. She's clever and witty and definitely makes me feel like she's whispering her silly secrets to her best friends and I'm in on it. <br />
<br />
Amy Beth is not only hilarious, but a fabulous knitter. She always manages to impress me with her finished projects, both knitting and spinning. In addition to her podcast, she also has a shop, <a href="http://fatsquirrelfibers.bigcartel.com/" target="_blank">Fat Squirrel Fibers</a>, where she sells project bags. Amy Beth has great taste in fabrics, but you have to catch her shop updates as soon as they happen. Her bags sell out immediately, as in set your alarm and be sitting at the computer with your hand hovering over the "buy" button. <br />
<br />
Check out The Fat Squirrel Speaks. She'll make your day.<br />
<div class="value">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<strong><span style="font-size: x-large;"></span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: x-large;"></span></strong><br />Kayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07699355538274389345noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2144178439480418885.post-60773405667033381902015-03-05T07:16:00.002-08:002015-03-05T07:16:39.509-08:00Lawrence sweater is done!I'm going to jump right in with knitting talk, because I'm really excited about finishing my Lawrence sweater.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><strong>FO's</strong></span><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: x-large;"></span></strong><br /><br />
Actually "FO's" should be singular because I only have one, but it's a pretty big one. Introducing my Lawrence Sweater.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/lawrence-2" target="_blank"><strong><span style="color: #cc3300;"><span style="font-size: large;">Lawrence Sweater</span></span></strong></a><br /><br /> Yarn--Cascade 220, colorway 9572<br /> Needles--US 8, 5mm<br />
<br />
It's done! Yay me, and just in time for the end of Knitting Den's KAL (knit-a-long). The KAL ended on February 28 and my sweater was blocking that day.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3TJg-BIxh1b_qKzq9gMiGFBJzwzlgiyLEj-6FtDNeCg38HrAPJZ43r4fisXclB5g5tqCjTn_xHWYT5KJW1EoYsTnkS1V0-KnnRmWCeSFWkXDljZJNEf6uxCfci3TrOlcMYOy6qfvTEcY/s1600/finished+lawrence+sweater.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3TJg-BIxh1b_qKzq9gMiGFBJzwzlgiyLEj-6FtDNeCg38HrAPJZ43r4fisXclB5g5tqCjTn_xHWYT5KJW1EoYsTnkS1V0-KnnRmWCeSFWkXDljZJNEf6uxCfci3TrOlcMYOy6qfvTEcY/s1600/finished+lawrence+sweater.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
The color is a rich purple-y red. The color bled quite a bit when I washed it for blocking. It even discolored my needles while knitting, however, it doesn't look faded even after washing. The Cascade 220 I used is not superwash, so I'll always be handwashing this sweater. Hopefully, it will maintain the deep color for a long time.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><strong>WIP's</strong></span><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: x-large;"></span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;">Ankle socks for me</span></strong><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Yarn--Four Seasons Gründl Hot Socks<br /> Needles--US size 0, 2.00mm</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj51wuqb-VMmTKpNYyiPrYAIO5GFtsmXMjzWd4qoUVUCffy-Z6dWWbpA7pZT1mu12cZ5ut6bO-5x8qYeKKweUrdhEf6aTe2FcdWufQ2sUqpYEQtXQfifj-UYe7mMDtLGVMLUVhb0sMNNDY/s1600/ankle+socks+for+me.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj51wuqb-VMmTKpNYyiPrYAIO5GFtsmXMjzWd4qoUVUCffy-Z6dWWbpA7pZT1mu12cZ5ut6bO-5x8qYeKKweUrdhEf6aTe2FcdWufQ2sUqpYEQtXQfifj-UYe7mMDtLGVMLUVhb0sMNNDY/s1600/ankle+socks+for+me.jpg" height="239" width="320" /></a></div>
Yes, this is the same picture I used last time. I've made a little progress on the foot, but I didn't take a new picture. These are my "purse knitting", meaning that I can grab them for on-the-go knitting when I need something simple and small. They may take a while since I'm only working on them occasionally.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/rosamond" target="_blank"><span style="color: black; font-size: large;"><strong>Rosamond Socks</strong></span></a><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;"></span></strong><br />
Yarn--Knit Picks Stroll Tonal in the Pearlescent Tonal<br />
Needles--US size 1, 2.25 mm, 9 inch circulars<br />
<br />
The Rosamond socks are for a spring sock KAL in an online group. I knit a pair of socks for another member of the group, while someone else is knitting for me. It's so exciting; I've never had anyone knit socks for me! It's a great group and while not everyone has met in person, many have known each other for years online.<br />
<br />
The pattern is great, pretty lace design and not too difficult. It's a free pattern on Ravelry and well written, with both charts and written instructions. I'm on the second sock about half-way to the heel.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIpTXAXEbkEhxbu8zZHS2wEC__txrHC9UvwcUsbgIEepew28aquxQ7QtqLEqj3WaU0543RPizypZC6XJ5jdOHL-9j2KxeLb2vwoscUhWAQPUVfKc5G3a4zgAFdKvC3RCkwGxFD-4wF1rI/s1600/rosamond+socks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIpTXAXEbkEhxbu8zZHS2wEC__txrHC9UvwcUsbgIEepew28aquxQ7QtqLEqj3WaU0543RPizypZC6XJ5jdOHL-9j2KxeLb2vwoscUhWAQPUVfKc5G3a4zgAFdKvC3RCkwGxFD-4wF1rI/s1600/rosamond+socks.jpg" height="239" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><strong>Podcast Corner</strong></span><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: x-large;"></span></strong><br />
This week's podcast feature is a new podcast, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKCqcIn7YU9YBfVMKEMRHmQ/videos" target="_blank">tplaysnice</a>. It is hosted by Tracy from the UK and she is just adorable! Tracy's podcast is only a couple of months old, but she has hit her stride quickly and I look forward to each week's new episode. Each episode, she talks about what she's wearing and it's fascinating to see her gorgeous handknits. I like seeing her beautiful sweaters "in real life". A photo is helpful, but seeing it on a real person is even better.<br />
<br />
Tracy is another podcaster who makes me feel like I'm sitting down for a chat with a friend. Do join Tracy for her lovely podcast; she'll make you feel right at home.<br />
<strong><span style="font-size: x-large;"></span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: x-large;"></span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: x-large;"></span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: x-large;"></span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: x-large;"></span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: x-large;"></span></strong>Kayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07699355538274389345noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2144178439480418885.post-79634160019664334412015-02-26T16:22:00.002-08:002015-02-26T16:22:47.932-08:00Wisdom teeth? Who needs 'em!I remember having my wisdom teeth taken out when I was 17. I was in the 11th grade and taking U.S. history from Mr. Killian. He was the high school baseball coach and I had expected him to be mediocre at best as a teacher. My apologies to all the coach/teachers out there for underestimating him. He was funny and quite engaging while trying to cram a bit of history into a bunch of teenagers.<br />
<br />
The day I was to have my teeth out, we had a history test. The thought of trying to take the test a week after the rest of the class and after being in a fog for a few days seemed risky, so I asked to take the test early, on the morning of "the procedure". When I finished the test and went to turn it in, Mr. Killian said, "Kay, I'm a bit worried about your grades."<br />
<br />
Gasp! I was a good student, as in graduated fourth in my class of over three hundred, so a problem with my grades was, in a word, unacceptable. I gulped and said something like "Really?"<br />
<br />
He replied, in the most serious tone possible, "Well, with having your wisdom teeth removed, you may not be as wise and your grades could suffer." After a second or three for that to sink in, I laughed, probably a little too loudly, and he wished me luck. I survived, both the tooth extraction and the history test.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj72ADlLZ4NJg0EeYoUH_tLVMt9cqV3kAhJIeEObxnSfpP7xv1kL8UN6nI5L4uC2j9b1CKbiDetyMShxiePE8u4Py5Yt9TmUKEPlvjlURXAc243_f1z97K6-yOH_FIEL9BlEWh02Auukmg/s1600/tooth_molar_clip_art_19357.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj72ADlLZ4NJg0EeYoUH_tLVMt9cqV3kAhJIeEObxnSfpP7xv1kL8UN6nI5L4uC2j9b1CKbiDetyMShxiePE8u4Py5Yt9TmUKEPlvjlURXAc243_f1z97K6-yOH_FIEL9BlEWh02Auukmg/s1600/tooth_molar_clip_art_19357.jpg" height="320" width="283" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Today was my daughter's turn to have her wisdom teeth removed. Even though she's 23, it was a bit difficult to watch her leave the waiting room on her own and then wait for them to let me know she was done. She did fine and wasn't too incoherent when I saw her, although she did ask for a smoothie* about five times. I'll sleep in a chair near her room tonight, just in case.<br />
<br />
All that to say, knitting hasn't been too high on the list this week. I am almost done with the Lawrence sweater and it will hopefully be a finished object by next week. I also am working on a pair of <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/rosamond" target="_blank">Rosamond socks</a> for a KAL (Knit-A-Long). Details to follow next week!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
*I made her a banana/mango/orange smoothie a couple of hours ago.Kayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07699355538274389345noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2144178439480418885.post-70036930252784287542015-02-11T07:15:00.005-08:002015-02-11T07:15:55.425-08:00Socks and a SweaterMy family celebrates two birthdays this month, my older daughter and my husband. My daughter just turned 23 and she requested dinner out at Miyo's. She loves their Asian cuisine, especially the sushi. We had a very nice dinner with two of her friends and her aunt and uncle.<br />
<br />
Next week, my husband has a birthday. Last year, for his 50th, we did a Star Trek themed party. This year will be much more low-key, probably a family dinner.<br />
<br />
On to fiber!<br />
<br />
<strong><span style="font-size: x-large;">FO's</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: x-large;"></span></strong><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim6ra7cnY9FqweE7yHBkXhTwPev19QX43YSU2gTV0O2hsNEbmj_Va7QhCP_L_KmYhZrrw48beGOLgUViU37zcil16CHWQnEnBOIp5SzvPH2CkadqDagNjyp1YcQQXOdfu_BnosO2AJEUw/s1600/handspun+yarn+photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim6ra7cnY9FqweE7yHBkXhTwPev19QX43YSU2gTV0O2hsNEbmj_Va7QhCP_L_KmYhZrrw48beGOLgUViU37zcil16CHWQnEnBOIp5SzvPH2CkadqDagNjyp1YcQQXOdfu_BnosO2AJEUw/s1600/handspun+yarn+photo.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
I finished this handspun this week. It's a superwash BFL (blue faced Leiscester) in shades of pink, blue and purple. It's a three-ply, worsted-ish weight. I'm not sure yet what it's going to be, maybe a hat or fingerless mitts?<br />
<br />
<strong><span style="font-size: x-large;">WIP's</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: x-large;"></span></strong><br />
<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/lawrence-2" target="_blank"><strong><span style="color: #cc3300;">Lawrence Sweater</span></strong></a><br /><br /> Yarn--Cascade 220, colorway 9572<br /> Needles--US 8, 5mm<br />
<br />
The Lawrence sweater is making slow but steady progress. I split for sleeves last night--yay! It should move a bit faster now, with almost 100 fewer stitches per round.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWKB929bqrYmyCvcXS9976VRWuXz4uiNLUcM4hi-ZUkU90cMMb1tTORGLle2gQa9CU0psN31c2EBWAwaN7wZgk65jcxwbbrbu2pEgFE5TMjB2-QQiKmSiTH6a-tWTmWuGMgLuOegiTqFo/s1600/Lawrence+sweater+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWKB929bqrYmyCvcXS9976VRWuXz4uiNLUcM4hi-ZUkU90cMMb1tTORGLle2gQa9CU0psN31c2EBWAwaN7wZgk65jcxwbbrbu2pEgFE5TMjB2-QQiKmSiTH6a-tWTmWuGMgLuOegiTqFo/s1600/Lawrence+sweater+4.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<strong>Ankle socks for me</strong></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Yarn--Four Seasons Gründl Hot Socks<br /> Needles--US size 0, 2.00mm</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I started a pair of socks for me, using the same yarn I used for Janie's socks. We can be matchy-matchy! This is the first time I've made socks on size 0 needles. It's taking longer but I like the fabric it creates.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I cast on 64 stitches and did 20 rounds of ribbing before going to the heel. The heel is worked over 32 stitches. I'm not sure yet how many rounds I'll need for the foot, but I'll keep you posted.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQe0d1-GjCqkdGcqi2WlFROTxdLNtl2fEgCTlYQhSMmIP7n0QgXhYYhnZoyoXvHsjpMtmfeh9ENpCXstt6LUXEDlTq6ugTXYn_GMZvvd0K5SPWsXy6jU1Cc2hSHqhRvYy8jR0m3VLpgrY/s1600/ankle+socks+for+me.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQe0d1-GjCqkdGcqi2WlFROTxdLNtl2fEgCTlYQhSMmIP7n0QgXhYYhnZoyoXvHsjpMtmfeh9ENpCXstt6LUXEDlTq6ugTXYn_GMZvvd0K5SPWsXy6jU1Cc2hSHqhRvYy8jR0m3VLpgrY/s1600/ankle+socks+for+me.jpg" height="239" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<strong><span style="font-size: x-large;">Podcast Corner</span></strong></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
This week's podcast is <a href="http://www.knit1hearttoo.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Knit1HeartToo</a>. It is hosted by Wendy and Sheila, podcasting from Massachusetts. They are both moms and knit for themselves as well as their families and friends. Don't let their silliness fool you; both are talented knitters and produce wonderful items. <br />
<br />
Here's a quote from their blog page. <br />
<br />
<span style="color: #ffcccc;"><strong><span style="color: purple;">"Knit 1, Heart too" grew out of something that we both have in common. Wendy has been a heart failure survivor since 2006 and Sheila is mom to an amazing boy who not only survived a serious congenital heart defect diagnosed at birth, but later survived liver cancer and two liver transplants. We know a lot about hearts and that it takes a lot of heart (and courage) to survive. And we knit with a lot of heart, too.</span></strong></span><br />
<span style="color: #ffcccc;"><span class="_Tgc"><b></b></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #ffcccc;"><span style="color: black;">These are amazing women. Sheila is a p<span class="_Tgc">hlebotomist</span> and Wendy is currently a stay-at-home-mom, having left a career as a lawyer. Love this podcast!</span></span>Kayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07699355538274389345noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2144178439480418885.post-57507308143046598912015-02-03T16:43:00.000-08:002015-02-03T16:43:00.573-08:00February already?It's February already? There are two family birthdays this month, my husband and my older daughter, and I haven't done a thing to get ready. My husband, Andy, is pretty happy with a nice dinner either at home or at a restaurant. My daughter will be 23, so she is making plans with friends. <br />
<br />
It's been a mild winter so far and I noticed today that a few bulbs are starting to peek through in my garden. I also saw some daffodils already in full bloom, just a few miles from home. Goodness, spring is coming early!<br />
<br />
On to fiber projects!<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><strong>FO's</strong></span><br />
I have two finished objects this week!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/ashton-shawlette" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">The Ashton Shawlette</span></a><br />
by Dee O'Keefe<br />
Yarn--Gerschubie Fiber Arts, Cottage Sock in the Picot colorway<br /> Needles--US 5, 3.75 mm<br />
<br />
I love how this shawlette turned out. It's my first attempt at a lace shawl and I wasn't sure if I would make it through, but here it is! Most knitters know that blocking is nearly miraculous in it's ability to bring out the best in finished projects, especially lace, and this shawl proves it.<br />
<br />
Pre-blocking:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirWrW_YO3z_m7veTnT8OWXbF_mozqLpp4znz5nh7wSsDjoAstCfdHDikl7Hx6OdLUJ2FLiKae6OjrsioK3-h3I_T1jfwRtHbOlopFniYV86AQK9F_tejxzllz6tgPzY4bArm4b-y6BzxU/s1600/Ashton+shawlette+preblocking.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirWrW_YO3z_m7veTnT8OWXbF_mozqLpp4znz5nh7wSsDjoAstCfdHDikl7Hx6OdLUJ2FLiKae6OjrsioK3-h3I_T1jfwRtHbOlopFniYV86AQK9F_tejxzllz6tgPzY4bArm4b-y6BzxU/s1600/Ashton+shawlette+preblocking.jpg" height="320" width="239" /></a></div>
<br />
Blocking:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGzoGBtmHz8LAlznU3-SipWm1bFGLZEOYuBh-ZY8dHGrc7-7gTjLGlrPAaD-rzqQjP8LtFWLJ_MJjHGtf_rHi4B5HKEeYiFFxTlA1GfVNRGNKxW6SZNpskNUFsuBPA8FUSL5yPkvUZIbk/s1600/ashton+shawlette.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGzoGBtmHz8LAlznU3-SipWm1bFGLZEOYuBh-ZY8dHGrc7-7gTjLGlrPAaD-rzqQjP8LtFWLJ_MJjHGtf_rHi4B5HKEeYiFFxTlA1GfVNRGNKxW6SZNpskNUFsuBPA8FUSL5yPkvUZIbk/s1600/ashton+shawlette.jpg" height="320" width="239" /></a></div>
<br />
Even Andy was impressed. He's normally very polite when I show him my projects, but this time he "ooo-ed" and "ahhh-ed" quite a bit. I wore it to church Sunday and he pointed it out to several people with a "Do you like Kay's shawl? She made it." Thanks, Sweetie!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/icy-water" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">Icy Water</span></a><br />
by Muraka Mari<br />
Yarn: Plymouth Yarn Encore DK in colorways 515 and 256<br />
Needles: US size 4, 3.5 mm<br />
<br />
I also finished a pair of mittens for my younger daughter. It's a pretty colorwork pattern and should be very warm for Janie's small hands. I haven't blocked them or taken a final picture. If I can get them back from Janie, I'll take one. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHrbsdHiuwvqOM7qtKPE46XV9kLhJ6yMgYhyphenhyphenpPuap58-IaL2P-nIr6USXHf1MQcAHLhRUIhf_kHN9Bnyj563VZTZylr2XOo_7sPUgg23ANkqltN6wlIhr_ntE_YmEhn4K6F-aZh90Vwd0/s1600/Icy+water+mittens+for+Janie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHrbsdHiuwvqOM7qtKPE46XV9kLhJ6yMgYhyphenhyphenpPuap58-IaL2P-nIr6USXHf1MQcAHLhRUIhf_kHN9Bnyj563VZTZylr2XOo_7sPUgg23ANkqltN6wlIhr_ntE_YmEhn4K6F-aZh90Vwd0/s1600/Icy+water+mittens+for+Janie.jpg" height="320" width="239" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><strong>WIP's</strong></span><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: x-large;"></span></strong><br />
I'm down to two current projects, finally! The Ashton shawl and the mittens had both been hibernating since last fall and I'm glad to have them finished. Now I can focus on the ones left on the needles and my spinning wheel. <br />
<br />
I'm still working on the Lawrence sweater, although it has taken a back seat this week. I also started a pair of socks for me, in the same yarn as the ones I did for Janie. We get to have matching socks!<br />
<br />
My spinning has been slow but steady. I started a pink/purple/white superwash braid a couple of months ago and just finished spinning the singles today. I'm spinning it on my Louet Hatbox wheel, which is a very compact travel size wheel. Now I need to set up to ply the yarn, hopefully into a three-ply.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><strong>Podcast Corner</strong></span><br />
One of the first podcasts I found was <a href="http://www.knitmoregirlspodcast.com/" target="_blank">The Knitmore Girls.</a> This podcast is hosted by Jasmin and Gigi, a mother/daughter team. They are charming and funny and I so enjoy hearing about their projects. The podcast started in 2008 and has been going strong ever since.<br />
<br />
Both Jasmin and Gigi are experienced knitters and I like knowing which projects they find challenging and which ones they can breeze through. Their show segment "When Knitting Attacks" is a light-hearted look at the week's uncooperative knitting. It's encouraging to know that even the best knitters sometimes make mistakes.<br />
<br />
They also talk about spinning and sewing, as well as reviewing books and other fiber art supplies, like yarn and needles. The Knitmores can be counted on to give their honest opinions and recommendations, both good and bad.<br />
<br />
Check out the Knitmore Girls! <br />
<br />
Kayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07699355538274389345noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2144178439480418885.post-78615514377517998482015-01-27T17:15:00.002-08:002015-01-27T17:15:45.854-08:00Lots of knitting, not a lot of finishing...This week I feel like I've done a lot of knitting, but there seems to be little to show for it. I worked on the Lawrence sweater, my daughter's socks and my Ashton shawl came out of hibernation.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><strong>FO's </strong></span><span style="font-size: small;">(Finished Objects)</span><br />
<br />
Just one finished object this week.<br />
<strong>Socks for Janie</strong><br />
<br />
Yarn--Four Seasons Gründl Hot Socks<br />
Needles--US size 2, 2.75mm<br />
<br />
I cast on 48 stitches, did 20 rounds of 1x1 rib and went straight to the heel. That made this a very quick project.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLETDFgZ5xyGDc-rh3leqcx1jRd99OLdFd_4J_vr1ihzRdaNl0O8_MfKAHIwGpMDpRWLbVBhKhEFO2qeqondquXV59i41jBDzmIIfolrDvvX15pJsryi_F_rjJUVXRzWDtgXkL8X3U9e4/s1600/Janie's%2Bsocks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLETDFgZ5xyGDc-rh3leqcx1jRd99OLdFd_4J_vr1ihzRdaNl0O8_MfKAHIwGpMDpRWLbVBhKhEFO2qeqondquXV59i41jBDzmIIfolrDvvX15pJsryi_F_rjJUVXRzWDtgXkL8X3U9e4/s1600/Janie's%2Bsocks.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><strong>WIP's </strong></span><span style="font-size: small;">(Works in Progress)</span><br />
<strong><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/lawrence-2" target="_blank">Lawrence Sweater</a></strong><br />
<br />
Yarn--Cascade 220, colorway 9572<br />
Needles--US 8, 5mm<br />
<br />
I finished the cowl!! It seemed to take forever, but I'm past it now and have started the lace detail. The sweater has a lace detail, slightly off center, down the front and the back. Very pretty.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnzayKbEnByF-DYmp18w2CFQZC1syTvjsI63dtJ73H8luzo34zw6YyXm7J_iWKOKxoOF1leQwPjH23PJOaOQ5LjXMFzKZyqrjPpvl7SG34J9PxW4nR_EhoKtO6v2aVJQITIawmfF3UfXU/s1600/Lawrence+sweater+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnzayKbEnByF-DYmp18w2CFQZC1syTvjsI63dtJ73H8luzo34zw6YyXm7J_iWKOKxoOF1leQwPjH23PJOaOQ5LjXMFzKZyqrjPpvl7SG34J9PxW4nR_EhoKtO6v2aVJQITIawmfF3UfXU/s1600/Lawrence+sweater+3.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<strong><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/ashton-shawlette" target="_blank">Ashton Shawlette</a></strong><br />
<br />
Yarn--Gerschubie Fiber Arts, Cottage Sock in the Picot colorway<br />
Needles--US 5, 3.75 mm<br />
<br />
I absolutely LOVE the color of this yarn! It is exactly what I imagined for this shawl. It has shades of brown, gold, tan (like a fresh hay bale) and little bits of purple and periwinkle. The photo just doesn't do it justice.<br />
<br />
This is my first lace shawl and the pattern is written for novices. There's lots of hand holding and that has made a huge difference for me. I've made lots of mistakes, but it's still gorgeous and I've learned loads about reading a chart and knitting simple lace.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQOoIPEPi2oSiC4CeLKh8XxMFaCNGN5GNkLFEYKuTNN9bJ8QRHy1QTzohGQJFsornJFxkEocBUrxwxbldsJkatBRLNpLuXyATX7W8dTy3Mhiu4DvsPlN3BoSN-RQ92uCRCuMVnIRN1rOk/s1600/ashton+shawl+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQOoIPEPi2oSiC4CeLKh8XxMFaCNGN5GNkLFEYKuTNN9bJ8QRHy1QTzohGQJFsornJFxkEocBUrxwxbldsJkatBRLNpLuXyATX7W8dTy3Mhiu4DvsPlN3BoSN-RQ92uCRCuMVnIRN1rOk/s1600/ashton+shawl+1.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The Ashton still looks bunched up and puckery (Is that a word? It is now.) but I think it will be fine once it's washed and blocked. I'm hoping to get this finished in the next few days.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<strong><span style="font-size: x-large;">Podcast Corner</span></strong></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This week's featured podcast is <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/knittingden" target="_blank">The Knitting Den,</a> hosted by Denise Shulz. Denise is from the UK, but now lives in Colorado with her husband and daughter. She has a video podcast which is recorded at her lovely home. Denise sometimes takes her viewers for a walk around her house. We get to enjoy the view of the Rocky Mountains, the snow in winter and her welcoming porch in summer.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Denise does a particularly good job of making me feel as though we're enjoying a cup of tea (and a KitKat) with her and chatting about knitting. The Lawrence sweater I'm knitting is part of KAL (knit-a-long) with Denise. I'm inspired by her and the projects she does. Join Denise for a cuppa!</div>
<br />
Kayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07699355538274389345noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2144178439480418885.post-32963150532695778432015-01-20T10:35:00.000-08:002015-01-20T10:35:00.442-08:00It's been a year?!Well, almost a year, since my last post. I'm calling it a "sabbatical" because that sounds much better than saying "I was too lazy and distracted to write". <br />
<br />
So here's a quick review of 2014:<br />
<br />
February--went to New Zealand. It's really, REALLY far away from South Carolina, but it's beautiful and the people are amazingly nice.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoGp-dM5Bayn-QtD9th9_dQ0gORU31PH8cyZeOorNuoacQcEeJK59Mm18MpDC8Rh26FUKqccoFelGf8m-bFugM3IalU9YKPt-kCv1tEprnypRWFYdkQ0JWDa3fT2KXLUvtUQSOBHPLkyg/s1600/IMG_6048.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoGp-dM5Bayn-QtD9th9_dQ0gORU31PH8cyZeOorNuoacQcEeJK59Mm18MpDC8Rh26FUKqccoFelGf8m-bFugM3IalU9YKPt-kCv1tEprnypRWFYdkQ0JWDa3fT2KXLUvtUQSOBHPLkyg/s1600/IMG_6048.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
May--older daughter graduated FROM COLLEGE. Yes, I'm using my outside voice to say that because it seems impossible that she's old enough to be finished with college.<br />
<br />
July--went to Beijing, China. It's really, REALLY far away from South Carolina. It's such an incredible place to visit with it's huge cities and ancient history. It's also very hot in the summer.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMP3N_Qc-mvPloONFMrm5vpKVuhBukTCuV3TqQJukPNq7mJ0t8DsgkGwV0lW-R0Xkcy3i4yWKnfL5ErAWKs3dqWdmAsj5sbltb1Zw5VVRi_9dD92eZdkc4Gg9Wg_vFUFxYMmWe4zysRmI/s1600/IMG_6644.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMP3N_Qc-mvPloONFMrm5vpKVuhBukTCuV3TqQJukPNq7mJ0t8DsgkGwV0lW-R0Xkcy3i4yWKnfL5ErAWKs3dqWdmAsj5sbltb1Zw5VVRi_9dD92eZdkc4Gg9Wg_vFUFxYMmWe4zysRmI/s1600/IMG_6644.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
August--started our homeschool year with the younger two kidlets, ages 13 and 9. We are working on Latin and Greek. Don't tell them I said this, but they are way better at both than I am.<br />
<br />
December--wonderful Christmas with family.<br />
<br />
<strong> </strong><br />
<strong>On to 2015!!</strong><br />
<strong></strong><br />
In November I started a couch-to-5K program. The idea is that it takes you from slug on the couch to 5k runner in about 2 months. You start by running short intervals, broken up by walking intervals. It has worked really well for me so far. I am now running 25-30 minutes at a time. I'm really slow (pretty sure I walk faster than I "run"), but I'm doing it! Go me!<br />
<br />
I have been knitting for just over two years now and I'm completely addicted. I would have said "hooked" but that's only funny when talking about crochet. It's a pretty good bet that this blog will take a definite turn toward fiber art--knitting and spinning with an occasional crochet project thrown in.<br />
______________________________________<br />
<br />
<strong><span style="font-size: x-large;">Recent FO's</span></strong> (finished objects):<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/zigzagular-socks" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">Zigzagular socks</span></a><span style="font-size: large;"> by Susie White</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Yarn--Yarn Zwerger Garn Opal 4-ply in the Sweet and Spicy colorway</span><br />
<br />
Fun socks with a twisted stitch, zigzag pattern on the side. It's a free pattern on Ravelry (thanks, Susie!). The pattern is clearly written and very easy to follow, including moving the zigzag for left and right socks.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj59ypw7TbKwZLgaSVqYWVzV-GEYurolvaMuesL9Pw-tZdkBQs5ISZRIc1rzgAeo1NX8ApT2icFUqMcFMWJknxcm8zBEQ5UAaT02CL01hc0rKwFzD-o_QPNKGo4fBYYV1mFUUgZysmsvhw/s1600/zigazgular+socks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj59ypw7TbKwZLgaSVqYWVzV-GEYurolvaMuesL9Pw-tZdkBQs5ISZRIc1rzgAeo1NX8ApT2icFUqMcFMWJknxcm8zBEQ5UAaT02CL01hc0rKwFzD-o_QPNKGo4fBYYV1mFUUgZysmsvhw/s1600/zigazgular+socks.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/chill-chaser-cardigan-2" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">Chill Chaser Cardigan</span></a><span style="font-size: large;"> by Sylvia Hager</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Yarn--Spud and Choe in Toast and Grape Jelly </span><br />
<br />
This was a Christmas Day cast on. It took just under three weeks to complete it, made possible by taking time off school and watching the Mythbusters marathon. I was a little concerned that the sleeves were going to be too tight, but a little blocking and this sweater fits just fine.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh75T_inZQ-jA93ubLdO0JlkacF4wg-XhcAy44-Yrqu6mEyXziP84_cX3f1b1pkOAa4KSgQYHmsNt-zoNm2mfm32Nl3C9hI3_B-4Nn1T_onu6PAO496RC0gAezpkhgpmCokGk_vKnMMlr0/s1600/chill+chaser+cardigan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh75T_inZQ-jA93ubLdO0JlkacF4wg-XhcAy44-Yrqu6mEyXziP84_cX3f1b1pkOAa4KSgQYHmsNt-zoNm2mfm32Nl3C9hI3_B-4Nn1T_onu6PAO496RC0gAezpkhgpmCokGk_vKnMMlr0/s1600/chill+chaser+cardigan.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<strong><span style="font-size: x-large;"></span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: x-large;">Currently on the needles</span></strong>:<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The </span><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/lawrence-2" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">Lawrence sweater</span></a><span style="font-size: large;"> by Melissa LaBarre </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Yarn--Cascade 220, colorway #9572</span><br />
<br />
I started this sweater about a week ago and the cowl is taking forever. It's miles of garter stitch in the round, which isn't difficult but it eats up the yarn and my time. I'm so ready to get to the body of the sweater. It has a lace detail in the front and the back. <br />
<br />
A KAL (knit-a-long) with The Knitting Den podcast and the Apple Blossom and Ewe podcast prompted me to give this sweater a try. It's beautiful and pushed me to learn to do welts (the rolled edge looking things in the middle of the photo).<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKdgl5OF2MFVh372t0Li1CvuigmEIr5zWtgDCgYtvtXU8NpAzw-ckqu8eXYa8bPwinvGJweP7IwW61OCnrvl2i2pLox8_fEwAR3ja2n6I3NnPY_LhyphenhyphensEx5EAfRWy5vSXYGi1O3HBC0CzU/s1600/Lawrence+sweater+cowl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKdgl5OF2MFVh372t0Li1CvuigmEIr5zWtgDCgYtvtXU8NpAzw-ckqu8eXYa8bPwinvGJweP7IwW61OCnrvl2i2pLox8_fEwAR3ja2n6I3NnPY_LhyphenhyphensEx5EAfRWy5vSXYGi1O3HBC0CzU/s1600/Lawrence+sweater+cowl.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Plain vanilla socks</span><br />
I also cast on a sock this morning. It's for my daughter who gave me sock yarn for Christmas. She didn't request anything for herself but I want to make her socks anyway. She has small feet, so hopefully a quick project.<br />
<br />
_________________________________________<br />
<br />
About this time last year, I discovered knitting podcasts. There are a ton of them and they are fun, inspiring, and great company while I'm knitting or running. There are both video and audio podcasts available. I'm planning to write a little about one or two favorites in each blog post.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://prairiegirlsknitandspin.com/" target="_blank">Prairie Girls Knit and Spin</a><br />
<br />
This podcast is hosted by Susie (of Zigzagular Socks fame) and Danie. They do an audio-only podcast from Nebraska. Episodes include their finished projects, current projects and future plans. Projects gone awry are included in a segments called "Son of a Stitch", which always makes me giggle. <br />
<br />
They also chat about other knitting related topics like Knits on Screen where they point out knitting from television or movies, Stash Enhancement which is an audio version of show-and-tell about yarny purchases, and Truth in which Susie and Danie reveal a little about themselves such as how often (or not) the wash their handknits. The Prairie Girls have inspired me to try lots of new projects, knowing that even my failures will lead to some pretty funny stories.<br />
<br />
Do you have any favorite podcasts or blogs? I'd love to hear about them.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Kayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07699355538274389345noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2144178439480418885.post-9422028056310541422014-02-08T08:27:00.001-08:002014-02-08T08:28:06.599-08:00Star Trek 50th Birthday PartyMy husband celebrates his 50th birthday this month and we are having a party today. He loved watching Star Trek as a child and so we went with that as a theme. There are not a lot of party items available that feature the original Star Trek television show (as in none).<br />
<br />
My sister-in-law, Lori, can put together a party in her sleep. She went all out for this one. We have stars, "planets", and lots of blue, red and gold. There's a photo booth area and we are using aluminum baking pans for food and utensils. We have a Star Trek trivia game with Rubic's cube prizes.<br />
<br />
Happy birthday, sweetie! Live long and prosper. <br/><br/><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEKmFmd74-m8KzIzUw_IkBLDq4aBu9ZRkJBlBl3FVagWaEBK9fCqG73dvmXoMBw9xAgzm1GIb74zhcJe9ww57fGWCexVTzIBlnH7Tb9LKW4zqaic50cl1oYKsPbaNoYZnxb4AytsiJ6Kc/s640/blogger-image--379430439.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEKmFmd74-m8KzIzUw_IkBLDq4aBu9ZRkJBlBl3FVagWaEBK9fCqG73dvmXoMBw9xAgzm1GIb74zhcJe9ww57fGWCexVTzIBlnH7Tb9LKW4zqaic50cl1oYKsPbaNoYZnxb4AytsiJ6Kc/s640/blogger-image--379430439.jpg" /></a></div> <br/><br/><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU0EbT4dMUMV7Bpu-ZM4u60LTK-3xlFcHY_acWS7LBBFtxuguoTnQrLfyX-76XI5JeQ9SlZWsA0xxRmHgLh6JbvHmsmH0MkmyKrh4UDWSFGTZA5rfKenVFvgGuy83x0p4CCW7mF1cV6zI/s640/blogger-image--196293817.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU0EbT4dMUMV7Bpu-ZM4u60LTK-3xlFcHY_acWS7LBBFtxuguoTnQrLfyX-76XI5JeQ9SlZWsA0xxRmHgLh6JbvHmsmH0MkmyKrh4UDWSFGTZA5rfKenVFvgGuy83x0p4CCW7mF1cV6zI/s640/blogger-image--196293817.jpg" /></a></div> <br/><br/><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAuhYwM2xbTe5_5Gs5b-ZazpfxMtySms9UyEy7L-KhURMDUUD40kGFyIJ7FyRSObU-2gwT8Px7VZ1kbum8l3rlsw0z9KULvzK1IqvsBZZo0K61ShHfwa-eCuHMV7JVr-PollVpnNV0-ig/s640/blogger-image-453478786.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAuhYwM2xbTe5_5Gs5b-ZazpfxMtySms9UyEy7L-KhURMDUUD40kGFyIJ7FyRSObU-2gwT8Px7VZ1kbum8l3rlsw0z9KULvzK1IqvsBZZo0K61ShHfwa-eCuHMV7JVr-PollVpnNV0-ig/s640/blogger-image-453478786.jpg" /></a></div>Kayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07699355538274389345noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2144178439480418885.post-20205761515221916452014-01-29T06:12:00.001-08:002014-01-29T06:24:06.159-08:00Baby Goats in the Snow<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmoLYsHUMcpIrb-JFUALxMeJ3VW_qd3fgth28BtDdm5eraFesweHmi5PkIgSZ8BXci8XgTm9RzYCw6qK-cVPj2GIul7HLwBVAOziTsEUwvXAphuN6BGvaRPHhOnNVOdizAigge_UOR7NY/s640/blogger-image-1080805661.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmoLYsHUMcpIrb-JFUALxMeJ3VW_qd3fgth28BtDdm5eraFesweHmi5PkIgSZ8BXci8XgTm9RzYCw6qK-cVPj2GIul7HLwBVAOziTsEUwvXAphuN6BGvaRPHhOnNVOdizAigge_UOR7NY/s640/blogger-image-1080805661.jpg"></a></div><br />
Kayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07699355538274389345noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2144178439480418885.post-81395747916523034112014-01-28T09:46:00.001-08:002014-01-28T09:47:18.644-08:00Spin something yellow<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">At SAFF (Southeastern Animal Fiber Festival) in Asheville, NC, last fall I overheard a lady tell a friend, "I've never knit anything yellow." I thought, hey, neither have I!</div><div><br></div><div>I immediately began searching for both yellow yarn and yellow fiber. What I found was golden yellow wool for spinning and it's perfect for the cold, wintry weather we are having this week. The fiber on my wheel right now is superwash merino and it looks so cheerful. </div><div><br></div><div>I'm kind of looking forward to couple of snow days to play with my yellow wool. </div><div><br></div><div>(Did I mention the mango colored sock yarn I bought last week? Yummy.)<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhovN00_XWHW7IoyjWj-S2eTIOj2CIzu6mXZMwp0dSBhNpAOsainz-Rb5Ed5Kqna7iJ7JXJKAPeMP-X9xP3WeRuCtMfwrUx5HlN2XGFda9Lmpge5mtpZXK8nPTLvSRHJljR5ZohJNCghhs/s640/blogger-image--42855142.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhovN00_XWHW7IoyjWj-S2eTIOj2CIzu6mXZMwp0dSBhNpAOsainz-Rb5Ed5Kqna7iJ7JXJKAPeMP-X9xP3WeRuCtMfwrUx5HlN2XGFda9Lmpge5mtpZXK8nPTLvSRHJljR5ZohJNCghhs/s640/blogger-image--42855142.jpg"></a></div></div>Kayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07699355538274389345noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2144178439480418885.post-80279942919293468302014-01-16T06:58:00.001-08:002014-01-16T07:01:02.081-08:00Homeschooling rocks...just sayin'Some days, homeschooling is a chore. Nobody wants to practice penmanship or do math or read about ancient Greece. Those are days we're just happy to get through to dinner time. <br />
<br />
But other days, it's glorious. Today is a good day. The children are reading their lessons and laughing about writing persuasive papers. We even giggled at Latin pronunciation this morning. (Did you know there's no W in Latin?)<br />
<br />
Just look at them, sitting there like perfectly normal children! Tomorrow might not be so great, but I'm going to enjoy this moment. <br/><br/><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7IdS1dU1BbRkg5TYPtmCmrIpuRSPz3LVuMKXyrTpRqiNI653rvjM8adD-_V6ilVblBzlp8wg-O43X24Znxgy5gzmdMpdjrxdJNlufn1BB176BJvkXisdA9UHyODB_7h5cO0Aq3Y8g0Pk/s640/blogger-image--1925781017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7IdS1dU1BbRkg5TYPtmCmrIpuRSPz3LVuMKXyrTpRqiNI653rvjM8adD-_V6ilVblBzlp8wg-O43X24Znxgy5gzmdMpdjrxdJNlufn1BB176BJvkXisdA9UHyODB_7h5cO0Aq3Y8g0Pk/s640/blogger-image--1925781017.jpg" /></a></div> <br/><br/><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU2g8lyZVeiGQ6zrHvIJTJDjXeZtt5pkK-AbtzrOd3V5zNR7xvNBndBi7Li9_YclEJ_pPHA6cDsRnRSmt4T6AEP_GQpfiJJ4X3EBfCCpBaZzY8zV5N-Vws2j_0O4OuvYvEqRWeDYEP4OQ/s640/blogger-image-1885484427.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU2g8lyZVeiGQ6zrHvIJTJDjXeZtt5pkK-AbtzrOd3V5zNR7xvNBndBi7Li9_YclEJ_pPHA6cDsRnRSmt4T6AEP_GQpfiJJ4X3EBfCCpBaZzY8zV5N-Vws2j_0O4OuvYvEqRWeDYEP4OQ/s640/blogger-image-1885484427.jpg" /></a></div>Kayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07699355538274389345noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2144178439480418885.post-48223787803284646512014-01-13T13:57:00.001-08:002014-01-13T14:02:02.349-08:00New year, new fiberI can hardly believe it's nearly the middle of January already! Knitting has been high on my list of projects lately. Since finishing my first pair of socks last summer, I've gone on to knit six more pairs and am working on another. The sock currently on my knitting needles is hot pink, almost red. They will be, umm, noticeable.<br />
<br />
After church yesterday, I headed to Augusta, GA, to the Tangled Threads guild meeting. It's a group of fiber enthusiasts who meet once a month and everyone brings a current project--knitting, tatting, spinning, crocheting. It's great fun to see what other people are making. Yesterday there was a cowl, a pair of socks, a sweater, a dress and a scarf, all being knitted. <br />
<br />
There were also four spinners, including me. I started spinning a fiber blend of camel, merino wool and silk. It's very slippery, but drafts beautifully. I'm not sure yet what it's going to be when it grows up, but it's behaving nicely right now. <br/><br/><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv_Cfo_vytsGhYVPMF8GtGRnBfL6HjPj4zaHtYa4uvNEzhB6U_pUgWo57QAHmHSM9NINFKqin2suFVvJWP2x1MCUDoIaGSw8RBx-owbXsOtqfYQ-1HQI-vcVF-1q622O4U5CsLqjktcGs/s640/blogger-image--714366627.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv_Cfo_vytsGhYVPMF8GtGRnBfL6HjPj4zaHtYa4uvNEzhB6U_pUgWo57QAHmHSM9NINFKqin2suFVvJWP2x1MCUDoIaGSw8RBx-owbXsOtqfYQ-1HQI-vcVF-1q622O4U5CsLqjktcGs/s640/blogger-image--714366627.jpg" /></a></div> <br/><br/><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8cOTY_KCbIYSCVGoHAGC8BNRolFGERPVyEaiujjBA_sRtUMP8fxOO-xYf1HQ3enhvYD9iW7iwmvV_IWKoU2dxgJnZCg7EiR6mkoAY8IGTWYQMVo-NKd2xHcW7zLNzzSOvaOU1QKHCY0o/s640/blogger-image-1844432412.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8cOTY_KCbIYSCVGoHAGC8BNRolFGERPVyEaiujjBA_sRtUMP8fxOO-xYf1HQ3enhvYD9iW7iwmvV_IWKoU2dxgJnZCg7EiR6mkoAY8IGTWYQMVo-NKd2xHcW7zLNzzSOvaOU1QKHCY0o/s640/blogger-image-1844432412.jpg" /></a></div>Kayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07699355538274389345noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2144178439480418885.post-56971664744937840612014-01-07T12:40:00.001-08:002014-01-07T12:41:27.598-08:00Brrrrr!<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div>Okay, I know some readers won't be impressed with our idea of cold weather, but for this southern girl- IT'S COLD!<div><br></div><div>At sunrise this morning it was 8 degrees here. Winter lows in the teens and twenties are not unusual, but single digits are rare. We even brought Abby, our Great Pyrenees dog, in for the night. (Side note, Abby has to be one if the best dogs ever. She lay down in the mudroom and was quiet and well behaved all night.)</div><div><br></div><div>Supper tonight needs to be something warm and comforting. I don't have ground beef for traditional chili, but I do have chicken. So, chicken it is! </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4aFs461dSA1AkApJlZmzaWk5SppjKBxWWnwPeisQFPmMKopyOms8UOFF2BNoJSTs8FN_g7Z8Um8rQOAb-ldqfsjV8o7H73WgX2H3y_G_o5UyHluMUDQlX9rxhHhgS7wU0nEMOv5gOOdM/s640/blogger-image-1869682286.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4aFs461dSA1AkApJlZmzaWk5SppjKBxWWnwPeisQFPmMKopyOms8UOFF2BNoJSTs8FN_g7Z8Um8rQOAb-ldqfsjV8o7H73WgX2H3y_G_o5UyHluMUDQlX9rxhHhgS7wU0nEMOv5gOOdM/s640/blogger-image-1869682286.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>I sort of made up the recipe as I went along-- sautéed onions and garlic, white beans, chicken, salsa, tomatoes and corn. It smells wonderful!</div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjNIYH7lwRgCIOMIkdlkgTk6Bo6Jk3depkOMJfOQOMFNz3t07tnl03IcHJ1BiG6G92I_Swd-nE77jTpn1i3gCaq2OsGIHoKwZs6kPZ0KO5BMkRzim5m5G6l_oQhge2SAhb246Fm9VFS7g/s640/blogger-image-1899275965.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjNIYH7lwRgCIOMIkdlkgTk6Bo6Jk3depkOMJfOQOMFNz3t07tnl03IcHJ1BiG6G92I_Swd-nE77jTpn1i3gCaq2OsGIHoKwZs6kPZ0KO5BMkRzim5m5G6l_oQhge2SAhb246Fm9VFS7g/s640/blogger-image-1899275965.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>Stay warm, friends.</div><div><br></div><div>Oh, and there's apple pie for dessert.</div>Kayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07699355538274389345noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2144178439480418885.post-6836248658924229542013-12-31T13:41:00.001-08:002013-12-31T13:42:33.089-08:00New Year's Eve in the countryNew Year's Eve in the country is a bit different from New Year's Eve in town. It's quieter, although there will probably be some fireworks in the distance. It's also less crowded and, well, darker. So, we're going to have a fire in our fire pit next to the river. <br />
<br />
The plan is to roast hot dogs for supper. Then, we'll toast marshmallows for s'mores. I found peppermint marshmallows just before Christmas, and the thought of mint chocolate s'mores just makes me smile. I have my toolkit ready, with chocolate bars, graham crackers and marshmallows all set for the evening.<br />
<br />
We don't plan to stay up until midnight. I've tested this theory before--the new year will get here just fine without my supervision. <br/><br/><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC4ta-zdSAsBdu2POW9jCTmXODhEgpjGIC2SsM_dmoBJJvGa5BrDoafM7QMOB9x6iq2is5b1Uo5A25vVtRiu3k_nvEPMsBO6g1Qr9y_yhjW0vgz2joiB_a841-89q0R9OIyWUw2aW5Rmg/s640/blogger-image-931299988.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC4ta-zdSAsBdu2POW9jCTmXODhEgpjGIC2SsM_dmoBJJvGa5BrDoafM7QMOB9x6iq2is5b1Uo5A25vVtRiu3k_nvEPMsBO6g1Qr9y_yhjW0vgz2joiB_a841-89q0R9OIyWUw2aW5Rmg/s640/blogger-image-931299988.jpg" /></a></div>Kayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07699355538274389345noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2144178439480418885.post-41633757692471096642013-12-30T06:59:00.001-08:002013-12-30T07:00:19.055-08:00Smart (aleck) AppliancesOur washing machine is relatively new and I think it's a bit too big for it's britches. It is a front loader and does a fairly good job of getting our clothes clean. BUT, it has a tendency to string me along with it's "oh no, really, I'm almost done" timer. It has been telling me there's just 2 minutes to go for something like the past ten minutes. <br />
<br />
It also won't let me open the door until it's good and ready. Okay, fine, the front load system means that water could leak out if I open the door before the cycle finishes, but I'm a grown-up. Let me make that decision for myself!<br />
<br />
My dishwasher lets me open the door whenever I want, but it gets even by hiding forks under the rack. And don't get me started on the refrigerator that beeps if I leave that door open too long.<br />
<br />
It's Monday. Can you tell? <br/><br/><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBAOi_EVwMjZeEDZxGidaGMMMXgS3_ntrZKgjjc25FvzdmU4fzi9Cl3oPX1oS6wTkmGQsc6SscnG21VyIXmu8rUi2bdScWrcC3t9_JNzkSKH9aEqIephhyphenhyphenRiSkAwKNUZAY4E6wLpo9Weg/s640/blogger-image-2048280421.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBAOi_EVwMjZeEDZxGidaGMMMXgS3_ntrZKgjjc25FvzdmU4fzi9Cl3oPX1oS6wTkmGQsc6SscnG21VyIXmu8rUi2bdScWrcC3t9_JNzkSKH9aEqIephhyphenhyphenRiSkAwKNUZAY4E6wLpo9Weg/s640/blogger-image-2048280421.jpg" /></a></div>Kayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07699355538274389345noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2144178439480418885.post-40438792506701540082013-12-25T05:40:00.001-08:002013-12-26T20:54:58.936-08:00Christmas traditions<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-t9ihxx-k150d9rGsGfWkGEHLWMKK4jsoRn5ark5X9ESRR8NoP611LrH3gRBdnJByyjKSF-SnKR1r6GegWbJmcl6Uihb2kCRB84HJOVQb9i0S2H9E8A4BencCNZsIChsJkMsR7M4_q2E/s640/blogger-image-1401174936.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-t9ihxx-k150d9rGsGfWkGEHLWMKK4jsoRn5ark5X9ESRR8NoP611LrH3gRBdnJByyjKSF-SnKR1r6GegWbJmcl6Uihb2kCRB84HJOVQb9i0S2H9E8A4BencCNZsIChsJkMsR7M4_q2E/s640/blogger-image-1401174936.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">One of my family's Christmas morning traditions is a special breakfast. I may have written about it before, but it can withstand repeating. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The tradition of mush, also known as scrapple, goes back over a hundred years in our family. We boil a fresh ham and save the broth. Plain yellow cornmeal is added to the hot broth until it's too thick to stir. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">On Christmas morning, I slice the mush and pan fry it. It's almost like having French fries for breakfast. It's delicious and I love carrying on a long line of mush eaters.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Merry Christmas!</div>Kayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07699355538274389345noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2144178439480418885.post-8980808680174597142013-12-24T08:16:00.001-08:002013-12-24T08:17:53.894-08:00Merry Christmas<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtsCo915ZbTPBnRZiJRz03psMzn9Iyjo4EMfG_Figq3EQRdvnV6jLCQhfLh_75mSFAK6AJl0KxpDc1ACQjJwH2Wq4C2kuKSfp9-LlHPxwdy7gOpYg0sVxi7Z_ciNVtmUMi22gFhj549rA/s640/blogger-image-765135518.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtsCo915ZbTPBnRZiJRz03psMzn9Iyjo4EMfG_Figq3EQRdvnV6jLCQhfLh_75mSFAK6AJl0KxpDc1ACQjJwH2Wq4C2kuKSfp9-LlHPxwdy7gOpYg0sVxi7Z_ciNVtmUMi22gFhj549rA/s640/blogger-image-765135518.jpg"></a></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi30grknK07KWC38MhL9NXKgu4JuzMqxWDypUunBg92SGZIo-IKUGnzzmne-BJHmwYf22SXTP653UjbWtZsuMMYdBfzeJLXIjzWbAP15AVOFW57MKsYulfVt_K9WINZh6F7TEL1J4hD1_I/s640/blogger-image-1123874695.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi30grknK07KWC38MhL9NXKgu4JuzMqxWDypUunBg92SGZIo-IKUGnzzmne-BJHmwYf22SXTP653UjbWtZsuMMYdBfzeJLXIjzWbAP15AVOFW57MKsYulfVt_K9WINZh6F7TEL1J4hD1_I/s640/blogger-image-1123874695.jpg"></a></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNEc_Ov9Ldqbm2YiKik2B-JYw3JsBkqOX08rbzZZ8Xx-Wi9eYzZyG7267M8Mx930uTLnC3NqacIhq7ThNx66t9c6VT2aZXsBEY3Ia-BPZZcyXZkZNuNnFqKIJGYxfoGvMhp4ye7fVFMUM/s640/blogger-image--925266931.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNEc_Ov9Ldqbm2YiKik2B-JYw3JsBkqOX08rbzZZ8Xx-Wi9eYzZyG7267M8Mx930uTLnC3NqacIhq7ThNx66t9c6VT2aZXsBEY3Ia-BPZZcyXZkZNuNnFqKIJGYxfoGvMhp4ye7fVFMUM/s640/blogger-image--925266931.jpg"></a></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7NfXTn99vUSiOu-h-5v5pzYFXXMjAmZqPX3fij0kfmhyvOIIoWQ-QlR64BJGRxgu8E4i0h6rlCshyphenhyphen2bWFHAW8gAWQ9oMyerJ1InV-Usx8owew6PZ812J83VjVvNitKID1J2ok2Mr8XX0/s640/blogger-image-1268650889.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7NfXTn99vUSiOu-h-5v5pzYFXXMjAmZqPX3fij0kfmhyvOIIoWQ-QlR64BJGRxgu8E4i0h6rlCshyphenhyphen2bWFHAW8gAWQ9oMyerJ1InV-Usx8owew6PZ812J83VjVvNitKID1J2ok2Mr8XX0/s640/blogger-image-1268650889.jpg"></a></div>Kayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07699355538274389345noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2144178439480418885.post-3210462501375457502013-12-22T17:19:00.001-08:002013-12-23T09:31:33.450-08:00Christmas TraditionsOur family traditions include a gathering at my aunt's house. We have a meal, sometimes brunch, sometimes a fancy dinner, but always delicious. <div><br />
</div><div>The meal is followed by a reading of the Christmas story by the Cousin-Who-Shall-Not-Be-Named. When the children were little he read it from a children's book, but now he reads the account from the Bible.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisUy8gkb-mkhKSO1V1auymJXGNFviEg-7wiJK3RR6RTaf_xxK4DoHwEOYRsMkxEk6zl0xnsH54mF4DEtMDh389PvKp7IeLyzgu1DX9Nimuu8GuWQl33xyC-g2nyYerCsiMXSCEC9d9Wdw/s640/blogger-image--588833239.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisUy8gkb-mkhKSO1V1auymJXGNFviEg-7wiJK3RR6RTaf_xxK4DoHwEOYRsMkxEk6zl0xnsH54mF4DEtMDh389PvKp7IeLyzgu1DX9Nimuu8GuWQl33xyC-g2nyYerCsiMXSCEC9d9Wdw/s640/blogger-image--588833239.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">After that we open presents. It's a great time, especially because the gifts are always thoughtful and often there are some handmade gifts included. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">My family is pretty awesome.</div>Kayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07699355538274389345noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2144178439480418885.post-71883226584166393002013-12-20T06:53:00.001-08:002013-12-20T06:54:26.091-08:00Abby the Ginormous DogOur dog, Abby, is a rescue dog. She was abandoned outside our vet's office and was in need of a home in the country with lots of room to run. We needed a wonderful dog. Perfect match!<br />
<br />
Because Abby wasn't raised with livestock as a puppy, she refuses to live with the goats. She will patrol the pasture and we haven't seen a coyote since she got there. But she's more of a people dog than a goat dog. She treats our family as her "herd" and always stays close when strangers are on the property.<br />
<br />
Yesterday afternoon, we went for a walk and Abby went with us. She lumbers along, mostly bringing up the rear and watching our backs. Once we got around to the goat pasture, she checked them out and waited for us to head back to the house. She is such a gentle companion and makes me feel so safe. Love ya, Abby! <br/><br/><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiREwsOw90xjIuxR2akI4Hj0qYqMHGL_k0ZoKXHIhQ5bbt_BBN37K5FCRUjoAiSyZD9YwEqro317UXkcnum0rN43ZXy23wkz41AbCTVQehKCAuQbwUsqkTYkTwR22PWj1MDJkumLd8RTHU/s640/blogger-image--596989454.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiREwsOw90xjIuxR2akI4Hj0qYqMHGL_k0ZoKXHIhQ5bbt_BBN37K5FCRUjoAiSyZD9YwEqro317UXkcnum0rN43ZXy23wkz41AbCTVQehKCAuQbwUsqkTYkTwR22PWj1MDJkumLd8RTHU/s640/blogger-image--596989454.jpg" /></a></div> <br/><br/><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAWGkx8P2Jjw-lYvX_45P4KqX9YM03ov0PL944PfPPwaBLBvMqtLuIkJpWCuoUbg7zcG_oPlCcQ0dBx0oEj0jM6gP7yz0Zz-LaHWsWtt4xoT-GAgHjt_JPhBkf__MCW-iogKbi92_Sueo/s640/blogger-image-1025663067.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAWGkx8P2Jjw-lYvX_45P4KqX9YM03ov0PL944PfPPwaBLBvMqtLuIkJpWCuoUbg7zcG_oPlCcQ0dBx0oEj0jM6gP7yz0Zz-LaHWsWtt4xoT-GAgHjt_JPhBkf__MCW-iogKbi92_Sueo/s640/blogger-image-1025663067.jpg" /></a></div>Kayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07699355538274389345noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2144178439480418885.post-22798774681190885582013-12-18T13:23:00.001-08:002013-12-18T13:23:44.303-08:00Cookie Baking Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGrraEr33q9bDZWCapj5oQuu7-fu4NLS-wqyOzHox0n6v3_sz5PVi7okSscvq8viKdjwynFKfNBQ8jhwSHSKcJasWPdCzLBU6TOEUehT06QQiF6dWg6gbUMv3Ka7PpGuQXX1pzlrhJQJM/s640/blogger-image-1380040198.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGrraEr33q9bDZWCapj5oQuu7-fu4NLS-wqyOzHox0n6v3_sz5PVi7okSscvq8viKdjwynFKfNBQ8jhwSHSKcJasWPdCzLBU6TOEUehT06QQiF6dWg6gbUMv3Ka7PpGuQXX1pzlrhJQJM/s640/blogger-image-1380040198.jpg"></a></div>Today we baked Christmas cookies! I have a pretty standard list of cookies that we make for Christmas each year. We make peanut butter cookies shaped like mice, mint chocolate cookies and an almond shortbread type cookie. <div><br></div><div>I also make "haystacks", from chow mein noodles and melted butterscotch chips. My grandmother used to make them and they are delicious.<div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUgansLKeLUQpsMeP-dPhj1Fwb5TCaNCfOwJGQQQJVCDUpSprFurDkhyphenhyphenvF5PINf-seDUhJ_E4VUWqBDAO3hgE6_5-P5JPFFTDIypdlKxsmCiy_urDv2imwmwOne9efGqkOdXFvFbY9d8A/s640/blogger-image-249808343.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUgansLKeLUQpsMeP-dPhj1Fwb5TCaNCfOwJGQQQJVCDUpSprFurDkhyphenhyphenvF5PINf-seDUhJ_E4VUWqBDAO3hgE6_5-P5JPFFTDIypdlKxsmCiy_urDv2imwmwOne9efGqkOdXFvFbY9d8A/s640/blogger-image-249808343.jpg"></a></div></div><div><br></div><div>My sister-in-law, Lori, joined us and got us organized very quickly. She's an experienced cookie chef so we were in good hands. She put the children to work right away. (That's my silly girl making a face at me.)</div></div><div><br></div><div>The house smells yummy right now. Any cookie baking around your place?</div>Kayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07699355538274389345noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2144178439480418885.post-13538734807812340912013-12-17T16:07:00.001-08:002013-12-17T16:08:15.524-08:00Girls' Night InWhat happens when the big kids go out to the movies with Dad? Girls' Night In! My eight-year-old daughter and I get to do girlie stuff, like color pony pictures, do our hair and paint our nails. We might even watch a movie in our jammies.<br />
<br />
I love nights like this. It's a chance to spend time with just my little girl. She's always lots of fun, but there's something special about having time for just the two of us. She is full of laughter and great ideas and she's growing up so fast. I need to treasure these moments. <br/><br/><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-F3mfOtpnKoykz6AHg3kiM2eyP158HRJ5x6soRJW3d7Jpy27MsltQAFBzsxazmx7vVHGcphjyQaVky8EL_QM6ZyiOeqyyp3jAnMXof-3we_BIk6OL6IvqWlGvVRnb6bfwFOVaZG8_nOY/s640/blogger-image-26728056.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-F3mfOtpnKoykz6AHg3kiM2eyP158HRJ5x6soRJW3d7Jpy27MsltQAFBzsxazmx7vVHGcphjyQaVky8EL_QM6ZyiOeqyyp3jAnMXof-3we_BIk6OL6IvqWlGvVRnb6bfwFOVaZG8_nOY/s640/blogger-image-26728056.jpg" /></a></div>Kayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07699355538274389345noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2144178439480418885.post-76783851069101029742013-12-15T15:29:00.001-08:002013-12-15T16:30:15.643-08:00Choir practiceWhat does sock knitting have to do with choir practice? If you are the church pianist (like I am) and the choir is singing the Christmas music to a CD, you tend to have less to do closer to the performance. <div><br></div><div>When they started to work on the music a couple of months ago, I had plenty of parts to play in rehearsal, but now that they know the music I am just "on call" to help with a measure or two now and then.<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtqXGqypm4k9ByzwoFn9X7EQby7antvKYRt7PeQWNUcYAzu5371n5j8gq-XBGmyXxEOpKrHR1gVblBvzviUe6VacSVWriUtBZ4DRTFIZO0s7SswJLqtNzM0abSMC9fuJN1wjlMP0SvTgk/s640/blogger-image--1355644370.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtqXGqypm4k9ByzwoFn9X7EQby7antvKYRt7PeQWNUcYAzu5371n5j8gq-XBGmyXxEOpKrHR1gVblBvzviUe6VacSVWriUtBZ4DRTFIZO0s7SswJLqtNzM0abSMC9fuJN1wjlMP0SvTgk/s640/blogger-image--1355644370.jpg"></a></div>The best part today was that I got to sit and listen (and knit!), both to the choir and to the drama. This is a small church in a small community and yet, there is an amazing amount of talent here. It is a joy to be a part of it.<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4OP1RNjgispJMgauRcgHFEOKh_eW4ro03pi8lXS4ItA_ankN7prehpatUtsNqMVgjJ5A4lf1etPBRQuCDv5wGaPHwGh6WlBDHYzYsN73sRBx9qDrgQPbueqN2qvW65vMATYB5Mgbq64U/s640/blogger-image-893653544.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4OP1RNjgispJMgauRcgHFEOKh_eW4ro03pi8lXS4ItA_ankN7prehpatUtsNqMVgjJ5A4lf1etPBRQuCDv5wGaPHwGh6WlBDHYzYsN73sRBx9qDrgQPbueqN2qvW65vMATYB5Mgbq64U/s640/blogger-image-893653544.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Merry Christmas!</div>Kayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07699355538274389345noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2144178439480418885.post-67438542096436874042013-12-11T11:51:00.001-08:002013-12-12T04:59:55.102-08:00Hobbit-y Spinning Project<div>This is my current spinning project, a polwarth/silk blend in colors that remind me of The Hobbit. It has forest and mossy greens, rust browns and a hint of turquoise blue. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6YawgJMAoVK7Tn6_UWgP8wIUPCn3d0KAsIZ7LmROAdEbOK8sFakdw7Xvugyd6AEwrNOWN6cSAHQmn-6smVKHRdJJrDbxgfYPEe0gDtXWrwBXESpO5jeav9NjWU35X-BoTGhf4EQzY_uo/s640/blogger-image-151546886.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6YawgJMAoVK7Tn6_UWgP8wIUPCn3d0KAsIZ7LmROAdEbOK8sFakdw7Xvugyd6AEwrNOWN6cSAHQmn-6smVKHRdJJrDbxgfYPEe0gDtXWrwBXESpO5jeav9NjWU35X-BoTGhf4EQzY_uo/s640/blogger-image-151546886.jpg"></a>I'm trying to spin the singles fairly fine so my finished yarn won't be too bulky. I haven't decided yet how I'm going to ply it, either a 2-ply or a chain ply. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdgThFn5EsgiqgX8Av2taBjgMCA2hVjXlKSQq_ehWP37FiG9TxHG_-xCbsy5q7JppONOKOPD8PBdZKW0pUKUgG5xyyItw3L9Y9_TAmXRTT3N8v2UB1i4I88Gqd8QOdiOMEWOP-mqsraBw/s640/blogger-image-1746560277.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdgThFn5EsgiqgX8Av2taBjgMCA2hVjXlKSQq_ehWP37FiG9TxHG_-xCbsy5q7JppONOKOPD8PBdZKW0pUKUgG5xyyItw3L9Y9_TAmXRTT3N8v2UB1i4I88Gqd8QOdiOMEWOP-mqsraBw/s640/blogger-image-1746560277.jpg"></a></div><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Because of the earthy colors, I think it would make great fingerless mitts or a scarf. The final decision will probably be determined by how many yards of finished yarn I end up with. (I know, that's terrible grammar. Never end a sentence with a preposition, kids!)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Most of my Christmas projects are done and I'm settling in for a long winter's spinning and knitting. Thankfully my fiber stash is well stocked.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br />
</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br />
</div>Kayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07699355538274389345noreply@blogger.com0