I know, it's been waaaay too long between posts. That's what happens when life doesn't just give you lemons, it drops a whole truckload right on your doorstep. So as I pick stems out of my hair, let's get on with the latest.
I have started the Couch to 5K program. I'm following 5K101.com's podcast and so far so good. Today was Week 2 Day 1. I had DH map out a 1/2 mile route on the cul de sacs around our house, and this was the first day I went past three full loops. Yea! I actually did about three and a half, or 1.75 miles, give or take, in a half an hour. And that was with neighbors stopping me to talk when they could obviously see I had my headphones on and was trying to keep moving. Being optimistic, DH also mapped out a 5K route around our house. Both routes, the half-mile and 5K, are all relatively flat with little to no traffic. I also go at a good time (for now), at 11-ish so when I get back I can put DD down for her nap.
Oh yeah, I forgot to mention that. The bike trailer we got in May has an extra wheel and a handlebar attachment so it converts to a jogging stroller. Today was the first day I didn't have to fight with her to either get in or stay in the stroller. In fact, she fell asleep about five minutes before the end of the track.
If you'd like to see DH's maps (Google Earth format), send me an email and I'll send them to you.
On the knitting front, I've gotten good at continental. I watched YouTube vides that helped some, but the real help was having my friend Pam come and actually show me how to do it. I knew how to wrap the yarn around the needle from the videos; watching Pam helped me understand what to do with my other fingers and wrists and helped with my tension.
I've also started a cape for DD and a hat for me. The cape is a super simple top-down raglan that I will eventually write up and the hat was a Ravelry find. I need to finish up my WIPs so I can start working on WIMs and try to get them published.
That's all for now. I'll post more in two days after I go jogging again.
Monday, February 13, 2012
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
20 Meals in 1 Day: Day 1
A few days ago, DD and I were in Shop Rite picking up some small things when I saw the new Rachael Ray magazine. The cover said "Twenty Meals, One Day" so of course I grabbed it. DH is always getting on me about not planning my meals, so I figured this was a perfect opportunity to try out the idea.
Yesterday, I spent an hour in the kitchen prepping pork and veggies. Yes, I kept them separate. Once I had 8 lbs (not 10 as RR says to use) cut up, seasoned, and in the oven I started on the veggies. I bought pre-cut squash so that saved me some time. The peppers and onions went easy, and then sat on my kitchen counter for over an hour until the pork was done. We're not making the tomato sauce, as I'm a lazy mom and have three jars of spaghetti sauce in the house. Tomorrow afternoon I'll do the chicken and rice. I would have done it yesterday, but my feet and back were killing me, and having your oven at 450 degrees for over 2 hours does not make for a comfortable work environment.
So today we had meal #1, Mango Pork, and Watercress Salad. I followed the recipe almost exactly. We're out of honey so I subbed maple syrup, and I don't like almonds so I subbed crushed walnuts, and I didn't buy shallots. DH and I both loved the crunch of the nuts, peppers, and watercress. I loved the sweet tangy dressing. You couldn't really taste the pork. Next time I make this, I'll sub spinach for watercress and add some curry to the dressing. And if I'm out of pork I think tuna would work just as well.
One the knitting front, I'm working on a proposal for Interweave, so everything else is on hold and I really can't talk about it. But don't worry, September is when I (hope to) start my Christmas knitting.
Tomorrow, Fusilli with Chicken and Tomato Sauce.
Yesterday, I spent an hour in the kitchen prepping pork and veggies. Yes, I kept them separate. Once I had 8 lbs (not 10 as RR says to use) cut up, seasoned, and in the oven I started on the veggies. I bought pre-cut squash so that saved me some time. The peppers and onions went easy, and then sat on my kitchen counter for over an hour until the pork was done. We're not making the tomato sauce, as I'm a lazy mom and have three jars of spaghetti sauce in the house. Tomorrow afternoon I'll do the chicken and rice. I would have done it yesterday, but my feet and back were killing me, and having your oven at 450 degrees for over 2 hours does not make for a comfortable work environment.
So today we had meal #1, Mango Pork, and Watercress Salad. I followed the recipe almost exactly. We're out of honey so I subbed maple syrup, and I don't like almonds so I subbed crushed walnuts, and I didn't buy shallots. DH and I both loved the crunch of the nuts, peppers, and watercress. I loved the sweet tangy dressing. You couldn't really taste the pork. Next time I make this, I'll sub spinach for watercress and add some curry to the dressing. And if I'm out of pork I think tuna would work just as well.
One the knitting front, I'm working on a proposal for Interweave, so everything else is on hold and I really can't talk about it. But don't worry, September is when I (hope to) start my Christmas knitting.
Tomorrow, Fusilli with Chicken and Tomato Sauce.
Friday, July 15, 2011
New news
So I just learned the Old Norwegian, or Twisted German, cast-on. It's supposed to be a nice stretchy beginning for many projects, including socks. I just finished my first "Cable My Big Toes" sock, and the cuff is a little loose for me. I pulled up some videos and gave the new cast-on a try. Won't know til I get to where I can try on the sock if I like it or not.
On the home front, being recording secretary of the PTO is working out ok so far. But ask me after the school year has started and I may have a different answer. With the MOMS Club, WS and I switched positions. I was VP of membership and W was secretary. However, at our first board meeting I show up with the iPad and W shows up with nothing. While I'm taking notes, she jokingly asks if I want to switch. Being me, I say "No prob." And so, with the president's ok, we switch. So now I'm secretary for two organizations. Thank the gods for my iPad. And thanks Hon for buying it.
Between my board positions and our renovation of the house (just flooring for now), I haven't had much time for anything else. Not even a whole lot of time for knitting. And in September there's school, and scouts, and soccer, and birthday planning. So here's to my last few days of "leisure."
On the home front, being recording secretary of the PTO is working out ok so far. But ask me after the school year has started and I may have a different answer. With the MOMS Club, WS and I switched positions. I was VP of membership and W was secretary. However, at our first board meeting I show up with the iPad and W shows up with nothing. While I'm taking notes, she jokingly asks if I want to switch. Being me, I say "No prob." And so, with the president's ok, we switch. So now I'm secretary for two organizations. Thank the gods for my iPad. And thanks Hon for buying it.
Between my board positions and our renovation of the house (just flooring for now), I haven't had much time for anything else. Not even a whole lot of time for knitting. And in September there's school, and scouts, and soccer, and birthday planning. So here's to my last few days of "leisure."
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Yarn Diet
So, got back from Maryland Sheep and Wool Fest. Bought probably about a pound of roving to spin. And five skeins of yarn and a spindle.
I was looking for Tinkerbell green for AK for a bolero and couldn't find anything spun in the right color. However, I saw the perfect shade for $7/2 oz and picked up 10 oz. And then my friend J wanted roving (big WTF) and the stand we were at would give her a free 4 oz bag if she bought two more. So of course I bought two, in this gorgeous red no less, so she could get a discount on her four bags. And of course, now that she has roving, she asks me to teach her how to spin. I took one horrible class last fall and only spun the rest of the roving I got from the NJ S&W. But J's so excited. So I buy a spindle and a IK book on spinning. And somewhere during all this I bought two skeins for $3 each. Back at the hotel, I give a quick and fumbling lesson to J while greatly improving my own technique. So ends Day 1.
We went back cuz I had to buy some more spun yarn. Got some super squishy ultra-pettable angora/merino blend that was naturally dyed in some awesome colors for a dress for DD. Got blocking wires on my way to Sanguine Gryphon. Now, I'm a serious lurker on their website. Love the patterns and Love the colorways. Well, let me tell you, the yarn is as soft and luxurious as it looks on the website. Both some Little Bugga and their new yarn, Mithril. Love, love, LOVE the colors. And Mithril is 560 yds for $20. Really great deal. Bought some bumper stickers and buttons and a MD S&W shirt before heading home.
So, back to reality. Last night, DH said I had to find some place to put all this yarn. Hence the yarn diet. I had to consolidate three stash sites down to two. So I have absolutely no space for any more yarn. And I have so many WIPs and WIMs that even I see the need to destash. Seeing as I've got a boatload of yarn (enough for my own store as my son says) I won't be buying any more yarn until at least after I get the green roving spun.
I was looking for Tinkerbell green for AK for a bolero and couldn't find anything spun in the right color. However, I saw the perfect shade for $7/2 oz and picked up 10 oz. And then my friend J wanted roving (big WTF) and the stand we were at would give her a free 4 oz bag if she bought two more. So of course I bought two, in this gorgeous red no less, so she could get a discount on her four bags. And of course, now that she has roving, she asks me to teach her how to spin. I took one horrible class last fall and only spun the rest of the roving I got from the NJ S&W. But J's so excited. So I buy a spindle and a IK book on spinning. And somewhere during all this I bought two skeins for $3 each. Back at the hotel, I give a quick and fumbling lesson to J while greatly improving my own technique. So ends Day 1.
We went back cuz I had to buy some more spun yarn. Got some super squishy ultra-pettable angora/merino blend that was naturally dyed in some awesome colors for a dress for DD. Got blocking wires on my way to Sanguine Gryphon. Now, I'm a serious lurker on their website. Love the patterns and Love the colorways. Well, let me tell you, the yarn is as soft and luxurious as it looks on the website. Both some Little Bugga and their new yarn, Mithril. Love, love, LOVE the colors. And Mithril is 560 yds for $20. Really great deal. Bought some bumper stickers and buttons and a MD S&W shirt before heading home.
So, back to reality. Last night, DH said I had to find some place to put all this yarn. Hence the yarn diet. I had to consolidate three stash sites down to two. So I have absolutely no space for any more yarn. And I have so many WIPs and WIMs that even I see the need to destash. Seeing as I've got a boatload of yarn (enough for my own store as my son says) I won't be buying any more yarn until at least after I get the green roving spun.
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Back to work
So I survived Spring Break. It was actually pretty nice. Got to sleep in a bit while the kids played nicely with each other for about 45 minutes. Now I'm gearing up for two trips.
The kids are going with Auntie to PA this weekend. Not only do I have to pack for both of them, I also have to pack warm and cool weather clothing cuz they're gonna be on a mountain. Not at the top, but high enough where the temp drops 20 degrees when the sun goes down. My aunt has been taking DS for years. This will be the first time she takes DD. Let's hope it won't be the last.
Trip number two is my trip to the Maryland Sheep and Wool Festival weekend after next. Just me and J. I'm packing good shoes and an extra bag to bring home swag and other goodies. And booze. I'm thinkin they're gonna up the local prices cuz there's a big event in town. Don't want a lot, but JIC.
The kids are going with Auntie to PA this weekend. Not only do I have to pack for both of them, I also have to pack warm and cool weather clothing cuz they're gonna be on a mountain. Not at the top, but high enough where the temp drops 20 degrees when the sun goes down. My aunt has been taking DS for years. This will be the first time she takes DD. Let's hope it won't be the last.
Trip number two is my trip to the Maryland Sheep and Wool Festival weekend after next. Just me and J. I'm packing good shoes and an extra bag to bring home swag and other goodies. And booze. I'm thinkin they're gonna up the local prices cuz there's a big event in town. Don't want a lot, but JIC.
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Spring Break
So DS is home for spring break. DD is ecstatic to have her big brother home during the day, and DS is having fun playing with her and getting more computer time.
Yesterday, Auntie took him to see Hop. He says it was great. I think his favorite part was going to McDonald's after. Later today I'm going to show him how to use the potholder loom, and we're just gonna hang out here and watch movies. Tomorrow it's an afternoon at Nana's while I go and get my first mammogram.
In a little less than 2 weeks I'll be heading to Maryland for the Sheep and Wool Festival. REally looking forward to it and spending time with my friend J. And ogling some yummy yarn.
Yesterday, Auntie took him to see Hop. He says it was great. I think his favorite part was going to McDonald's after. Later today I'm going to show him how to use the potholder loom, and we're just gonna hang out here and watch movies. Tomorrow it's an afternoon at Nana's while I go and get my first mammogram.
In a little less than 2 weeks I'll be heading to Maryland for the Sheep and Wool Festival. REally looking forward to it and spending time with my friend J. And ogling some yummy yarn.
Sunday, April 10, 2011
Trying to be healthy is bad for my health
Went to Sourland Mountain with DS's scout pack. Contrary to the brochure, the easy level Pond Trail was too difficult for me. After giving a jump to a nice, athletic-looking couple, they told me to stick to the parking lot based on my (lack of) ability on a bike. So while in the lot, a car comes speeding in. I squeeze the back brake and start skidding on the loose gravel. BAM! I twist my knee, which was in horrible shape to begin with. So I pack up and go back to the car and knit til the boys get back. Hopefully I'll be ok tomorrow so I can go out on my new bike and enjoy the gorgeous day.
Thursday, March 31, 2011
It's (A)live!
My knitting company website is finally up! Yeah!
HayesHandmade.weebly.com
It's still a little naked, but I'll be working on that as well as working on some projects.
What does that mean for you? It means I'll be separating knitting from the rest of my personal life, at least blog wise. If you read this, it means I know you, so you can have access to my inner thoughts. However, I've been handing out business cards to complete strangers and they don't need to be "all up in my bidnez."
So.... I think the terrible twos have started for Delenn. Almost all day yesterday it was "no" this and "no" that. She finally crashed at 7 and boy was I ever grateful. Kendall has to make an instrument for Monday (oh joy) and he's going to my mom's this weekend so it will be a hectic day today and Sunday night.
Besides that, I had a great birthday (thanks to everybody who texted/called/stopped by). Don't forget to check out my new website, and post comments either here or there.
HayesHandmade.weebly.com
It's still a little naked, but I'll be working on that as well as working on some projects.
What does that mean for you? It means I'll be separating knitting from the rest of my personal life, at least blog wise. If you read this, it means I know you, so you can have access to my inner thoughts. However, I've been handing out business cards to complete strangers and they don't need to be "all up in my bidnez."
So.... I think the terrible twos have started for Delenn. Almost all day yesterday it was "no" this and "no" that. She finally crashed at 7 and boy was I ever grateful. Kendall has to make an instrument for Monday (oh joy) and he's going to my mom's this weekend so it will be a hectic day today and Sunday night.
Besides that, I had a great birthday (thanks to everybody who texted/called/stopped by). Don't forget to check out my new website, and post comments either here or there.
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
January 26, 2011
So, I've finished MIL's cardigan. Looks great, feels great. I'm currently in the process of sewing the sleeves to the body, and am trying not to get aggravated. I never realized how frustrating it is to line up square set-in sleeves. While I was knitting, I was thinking of doing the sleeves in the round, but decided to follow the pattern as written. Next time, I'll listen to that voice in my head.
Also, finished the Jack of diamonds scarf. But I pulled the seam too tight so I didn't have to add another ball just to bind off. Looks lop-sided, so I will frog and start the end border a row sooner. Hopefully that'll fix it, and nobody will notice. If not I'm gonna have to take out an entire pattern repeat and I don't want to have to do that.
As for business. Got the business cards. Have to make the website go live by the 1st so I can hand out the cards and people will have a site to go to. Almost done my own socks, so I'll start the socks for JDR so I can be a walking advertisement. I've also got to do my swatches for my kids designs. I'm swatching in undyed cotton just to see if the stitches look right. Then I'll submit sketches and photos to yarn companies who will hopefully send me some yarn.
Unfortunately no pics, but I'll definitely have some up by the end of the month. Have to post for the business site, so might as well post here as well.
Also, finished the Jack of diamonds scarf. But I pulled the seam too tight so I didn't have to add another ball just to bind off. Looks lop-sided, so I will frog and start the end border a row sooner. Hopefully that'll fix it, and nobody will notice. If not I'm gonna have to take out an entire pattern repeat and I don't want to have to do that.
As for business. Got the business cards. Have to make the website go live by the 1st so I can hand out the cards and people will have a site to go to. Almost done my own socks, so I'll start the socks for JDR so I can be a walking advertisement. I've also got to do my swatches for my kids designs. I'm swatching in undyed cotton just to see if the stitches look right. Then I'll submit sketches and photos to yarn companies who will hopefully send me some yarn.
Unfortunately no pics, but I'll definitely have some up by the end of the month. Have to post for the business site, so might as well post here as well.
Friday, November 19, 2010
November 19, 2010
Went to The Melting Pot in Somerville last night with friends from MOMS Club. Service was ok, not bad but could have been better. Food was good. Nicely seasoned, and we were all full when we left. Of course, my share of the whole thing, plus my two AWESOME chocolate martinis, came to almost $100 including tip. Not someplace I'd go every day, but perfect for celebrating a special occasion with a small group of friends. Only four of us showed up, and I think the experience would have been worse if we had more.
Progressing nicely on my commissioned hoodie. Still stalled on the Kara cardi, but I am determined to get it done before Thanksgiving. It's not that it's a complicated pattern (I'd never design anything complicated), it's just that I can't get into it anymore. But it's been sitting on my needles since August, so I need to get my ass in gear. Also, finally got measurements from MIL so I can continue on her cardi. Mmmmm, alpaca.
Hit AC Moore two weekends back and got over $150 of yarn for $90-something. Most of it was for the commission, but I also got some nice stuff to knit up for DS and for me.
Hoping to enjoy some peace and quiet today, but DH is home sick so we'll see how that goes.
Progressing nicely on my commissioned hoodie. Still stalled on the Kara cardi, but I am determined to get it done before Thanksgiving. It's not that it's a complicated pattern (I'd never design anything complicated), it's just that I can't get into it anymore. But it's been sitting on my needles since August, so I need to get my ass in gear. Also, finally got measurements from MIL so I can continue on her cardi. Mmmmm, alpaca.
Hit AC Moore two weekends back and got over $150 of yarn for $90-something. Most of it was for the commission, but I also got some nice stuff to knit up for DS and for me.
Hoping to enjoy some peace and quiet today, but DH is home sick so we'll see how that goes.
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Sorry I've been gone so long
So...... I know it's been a long time. Part of it was life getting in the way, part of it was not having our own internet connection anymore, part of it was difficulty coming up with topics and titles, but most of it was just pure laziness.
What's New in My Life
DD is crawling now, so she's been getting into everything. That's her stuck trying to get to Brother's DVDs. She's vocalizing more, and even copying sounds that we make. Lately we've been telling her no, and sometimes she throws a tantrum, sometimes she pouts, and sometimes she just crawls away. And her first tooth finally broke through.
What's Off the Needles
DH has been bugging me for a while about seaming his sweater (like he's gonna need a heavy wool sweater this summer), so I finished it.
What's New in My Life
DD is crawling now, so she's been getting into everything. That's her stuck trying to get to Brother's DVDs. She's vocalizing more, and even copying sounds that we make. Lately we've been telling her no, and sometimes she throws a tantrum, sometimes she pouts, and sometimes she just crawls away. And her first tooth finally broke through.What's Off the Needles
DH has been bugging me for a while about seaming his sweater (like he's gonna need a heavy wool sweater this summer), so I finished it.
Also, I have everything done on DS's sweater except the zipper. Gonna go over Nana's one rainy day and figure out how to sew that baby on.
Finished socks for LK, but don't have any pics yet. Will post next time.
KIP (What's On the Needles)
I've got one very fuzzy bear made completely out of fun fur and one bear made with fun fur/RHSS mix. Both were supposed to be for Pam's contest, but DS wants to keep fuzzy cuz DH says he looks like an Ewok. Hopefully I'll finish the two by the end of the week so I can start on two blue ones that I have planned.
I'm still working on my Omega Psi Phi scarf. I got a lot done, but I think I'll frog it (again) to give myself more selvedge stitches to sew up so the double knitting doesn't bow out. There's also a matching hat planned. All my own designs. There's also an AKA scarf (Bernat pink and green camo) that is my "mindless" knitting project. Great for doctor's offices, driving to see in-laws, and anywhere else it's better to zone out than to stress about the impending event.
And finally, a sweater for DD. Dad's got one, Brother's got one, now the baby needs a sweater. I wanted something to throw on her on chilly nights, but I couldn't find anything in the stores that was as light as I wanted. I'm using Allegra Wermuth's Boheme pattern, but where she calls for DK I'm using worsted. Hopefully I've adjusted properly. I also bought the yarn for Interweave's Florentine Dress. Both are in shades of lilac, so I'm hoping they'll make a nice outfit. Thanks to Tricia for picking out the buttons.
No pics for these. Maybe next time.
Upcoming Events
- The last day of school is Friday, so I'll have both kids all day long. The plan is to go to the pool MWF and stay home the other two days (so I can get stuff done, like knitting in peace).
- DH and DS are going out to Pennsyltucky for the Fourth. I'm gonna see if I can drop DD off at Nana's so I can have a weekend all to myself. Whee!!!
- DS's scout leader has kinda asked me to help her out next year. I'm not sure I'm cut out for it, as I've never worked that closely with a group of young boys before, but everyone I've talked to thinks I'll be okay. If anyone reads this before August, please comment and let me know what you think.
Closing Thoughts
After knitting other people's patterns for almost three years, I'm starting to get my own ideas. Eventually they will get out of my head and onto needles and paper. I'm charting the Omega Psi Phi scarf as I go, and I've been writing down some stuff for gauntlets and a matching ear warmer. To save on yarn for the more complicated stuff, I've enlisted the help of my cousin (size XS) and my neighbor (size S-M) to be my models for tops. I almost never get gauge in a pattern using the recommended needles, so if anyone uses my patterns in the future they will definitely have to do a tension swatch.
My First Posted Pattern
I won't claim credit for this. It's in my head, but it feels more like I'm remembering something I saw than my own idea. But here is the pattern for DH's scarf.
SUPER STRETCHY RIB
1 skein Red Heart Super Saver (or approx. 250 yds worsted)
US 7 needles, straight or circ
Gauge not important. It's a scarf for cryin out loud.
CO 39 st, or any preferred multiple of 6 sts + 3.
Row 1: K3, [P3, K3] til end of row
Row 2: P1, [K1, P1] til end of row
Rep rows 1 and 2 until desired length, ending on row 2.
BO in patt for row 1.
Monday, March 1, 2010
Warm and Fuzzy
Once again, I have missed a week. But I have a good excuse. I have started seaming the sweater.
As you can see, I've got one shoulder seamed as per the directions, and I've started the collar. BIL is starting to get jealous, cuz SIL has been working on his scarf since last fall. But all my in-laws love how the sweater is coming out. I think BIL has been dropping subtle hints for a sweater of his own, but he isn't known for his subtlety, so I may be reading too much into this. But I told him I would make him a black and gold hat for his beloved Steelers. Depending on how finances and time goes, I may make him a matching sweater. His birthday is the end of November, so I have plenty of time.
Also, I've started a group on Ravelry for our local knitting group. Besides people I know personally, I've had three people join the group online. Unfortunately, I have yet to hear back from the library. Later on today, I'll give them a call and see if we can start this Sunday. Plus, I think SIL could use some socializing with others in a free setting. I know I definitely could.
It's been kinda fun reclaiming the power of motherhood. I'm not saying anything bad about any other parenting styles, but there is definitely something empowering about being a SAHM. I know my kids better than my parents knew me and my brother growing up. DH, the kids, and I went to the mall on Thursday. The mall has a setup where you can text a song and it gets played over the PA system. I picked the song and told DS I had picked his favorite song from the list and to guess which one it was. He got it on the first guess. That made me feel soooooo good as a mom. And then later on that night DS said "Mom, your knitting is magical." Tons of warm and fuzzies on that one. And instead of having DD in daycare and hearing second-hand what she did, I get to see her jabber at her toys and try to figure out how stuff works. And she is fascinated by my hands moving as I knit.
Even though I hate to clean, I love cooking and helping DS with his homework and talking with DH about his day at work and just having the time to be there for my family.
Also, I've started a group on Ravelry for our local knitting group. Besides people I know personally, I've had three people join the group online. Unfortunately, I have yet to hear back from the library. Later on today, I'll give them a call and see if we can start this Sunday. Plus, I think SIL could use some socializing with others in a free setting. I know I definitely could.
It's been kinda fun reclaiming the power of motherhood. I'm not saying anything bad about any other parenting styles, but there is definitely something empowering about being a SAHM. I know my kids better than my parents knew me and my brother growing up. DH, the kids, and I went to the mall on Thursday. The mall has a setup where you can text a song and it gets played over the PA system. I picked the song and told DS I had picked his favorite song from the list and to guess which one it was. He got it on the first guess. That made me feel soooooo good as a mom. And then later on that night DS said "Mom, your knitting is magical." Tons of warm and fuzzies on that one. And instead of having DD in daycare and hearing second-hand what she did, I get to see her jabber at her toys and try to figure out how stuff works. And she is fascinated by my hands moving as I knit.
Even though I hate to clean, I love cooking and helping DS with his homework and talking with DH about his day at work and just having the time to be there for my family.
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
I Am Now A Real Knitter
First, I wanna apologize for missing last week's post. I was having way too much fun having DH home for a change. Now on to the rant.
Real knitters have knitting groups.
I finally heard back from my local library about having a knitting group meet there. They are totally excited about having a group, but due to library policy we can only meet twice a month. There's a Sci-Fi thing going on every second Sunday, so I figure the first and third should work for the knitting group. I just gotta do flyers now. The library will distribute press releases for us to if we write them, and free publicity can't hurt. All we need now is a name. I'm kinda partial to Sticks -N- String. Comment and let me know what you think.
Real knitters have stashes.
Thanks to Pam, I went to a fantabulous sale at the Stitching Bee in Chatham yesterday. It was definitely worth the hour drive. I got lots of yummy yarn, all for one dollar each.
I know, it's a lot of blue. DS's school colors are blue and white, and the PTA Prez has told me if I made stuff she would buy it. So I got some Lamb's Pride and some Berocco and some sock yarn I've never heard of, and I'll be knitting up inventory for the 2010-2011 school year. I also got a baby blue cashmere that I just may keep for myself. Sometime this week I'll post my stash on Ravelry, so you'll have to check it out.
I also met some really nice people at the Stitching Bee. Caroline was knitting a sweater for her grand-niece. It was the cutest thing, off-white with brown teddy bears. We talked about knitting looms and socks, and she gave me some great tips on doing intarsia. Judy was also great. She was helping customers at the sale, looking up inventory, and helping Caroline with embroidery, all at the same time.
That's Caroline at the table, working on the baby sweater.
If you get the chance, definitely check it out. As well as knitting, there was a lot of good stuff for needlepoint. The Stitching Bee is in a gorgeous location. The customer service is fantastic, as is the selection of yarn, books, and supplies. They also had some cool funky buttons behind the counter. It's on Main Street in Chatham, nestled between 287, 78, and the Parkway, so getting there is a breeze.
As for me and my knitting, I'm about halfway done the front of DH's sweater. I finished the back around Groundhog's Day, and I cast on the front during the snowstorm on Wednesday. It's gonna have to be put on hold, though. My mom's sorority is having a conference the end of March and I want to make her a shawl in their colors. As always, I'll keep you posted.
Real knitters have knitting groups.
I finally heard back from my local library about having a knitting group meet there. They are totally excited about having a group, but due to library policy we can only meet twice a month. There's a Sci-Fi thing going on every second Sunday, so I figure the first and third should work for the knitting group. I just gotta do flyers now. The library will distribute press releases for us to if we write them, and free publicity can't hurt. All we need now is a name. I'm kinda partial to Sticks -N- String. Comment and let me know what you think.
Real knitters have stashes.
I also met some really nice people at the Stitching Bee. Caroline was knitting a sweater for her grand-niece. It was the cutest thing, off-white with brown teddy bears. We talked about knitting looms and socks, and she gave me some great tips on doing intarsia. Judy was also great. She was helping customers at the sale, looking up inventory, and helping Caroline with embroidery, all at the same time.
That's Caroline at the table, working on the baby sweater.
If you get the chance, definitely check it out. As well as knitting, there was a lot of good stuff for needlepoint. The Stitching Bee is in a gorgeous location. The customer service is fantastic, as is the selection of yarn, books, and supplies. They also had some cool funky buttons behind the counter. It's on Main Street in Chatham, nestled between 287, 78, and the Parkway, so getting there is a breeze.
As for me and my knitting, I'm about halfway done the front of DH's sweater. I finished the back around Groundhog's Day, and I cast on the front during the snowstorm on Wednesday. It's gonna have to be put on hold, though. My mom's sorority is having a conference the end of March and I want to make her a shawl in their colors. As always, I'll keep you posted.
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Validation
Validation is great. Especially in today's dreary world when you're never sure if you're doing the right thing, for yourself or others. But a kind word and a warm smile work wonders.
First, talking with SIL about our upcoming trip to the Knit Kit, she was telling me how her and a friend at work were both learning to knit together. She said books were one thing, but she needed to see somebody do a technique over and over again for her to really get it. I told her I look up videos on the internet, and she says "I want to watch you. You're really good and you know what you're doing." Wow.
Now, SIL and I haven't always been friendly towards each other. Because of misunderstandings and half-truths from a third party, she thought I was taking advantage of her brother. But after five and a half years of being with her brother, we've finally gotten to the point where we can go on an outing together, just the two of us. This is our first time being together without either one of our husbands around, and I'm really looking forward to it. And to top it all off she wants to learn knitting technique from me. Totally awesome.
Second compliment. On the phone last night with Mrs. K talking about AK and how she liked her socks. Now, I'm expecting some nice but non-committal comment, but Mrs. K says "She loves them. And I'm jealous. I want a pair." When she agrees to have them in the same color as her daughter's, I can hear AK cheering in the background. Unbeknownst to the K's I'm also gonna check my stash to see if I have enough gray left to do a pair for Mr. K. My first pair of socks, and they went over great. And Mrs. K is the kind of friend who will tell me the truth no matter what, so I know she really likes the socks.
Third compliment, and the best one of all. While on the phone with Mrs. K, DH asks me if we have anything nukable. He just ate the last nukable thing ive minutes before he asked, so I tell him no and ask if he wants an egg. After getting off the phone, I fry him an egg and serve it on a 7-grain bagel w/mozzarella cheese. He looks at me with love in his eyes. "Aww, hun, thanks. You always take care of me, and you do a great job of it."
Ah, validation. Working on a relationship with SIL, my knitting, and being a good mother and wife. We all know hard work pays off, but it's hard to see progress without outside observations. Thanks to you all for making my week, and for letting me know that at least I'm doing some things right.
First, talking with SIL about our upcoming trip to the Knit Kit, she was telling me how her and a friend at work were both learning to knit together. She said books were one thing, but she needed to see somebody do a technique over and over again for her to really get it. I told her I look up videos on the internet, and she says "I want to watch you. You're really good and you know what you're doing." Wow.
Now, SIL and I haven't always been friendly towards each other. Because of misunderstandings and half-truths from a third party, she thought I was taking advantage of her brother. But after five and a half years of being with her brother, we've finally gotten to the point where we can go on an outing together, just the two of us. This is our first time being together without either one of our husbands around, and I'm really looking forward to it. And to top it all off she wants to learn knitting technique from me. Totally awesome.
Second compliment. On the phone last night with Mrs. K talking about AK and how she liked her socks. Now, I'm expecting some nice but non-committal comment, but Mrs. K says "She loves them. And I'm jealous. I want a pair." When she agrees to have them in the same color as her daughter's, I can hear AK cheering in the background. Unbeknownst to the K's I'm also gonna check my stash to see if I have enough gray left to do a pair for Mr. K. My first pair of socks, and they went over great. And Mrs. K is the kind of friend who will tell me the truth no matter what, so I know she really likes the socks.
Third compliment, and the best one of all. While on the phone with Mrs. K, DH asks me if we have anything nukable. He just ate the last nukable thing ive minutes before he asked, so I tell him no and ask if he wants an egg. After getting off the phone, I fry him an egg and serve it on a 7-grain bagel w/mozzarella cheese. He looks at me with love in his eyes. "Aww, hun, thanks. You always take care of me, and you do a great job of it."
Ah, validation. Working on a relationship with SIL, my knitting, and being a good mother and wife. We all know hard work pays off, but it's hard to see progress without outside observations. Thanks to you all for making my week, and for letting me know that at least I'm doing some things right.
Saturday, January 23, 2010
We Did It
Last night was DS's first ever Pinewood Derby. He placed first in two heats, and third in the other two. But he had a blast and his car was really cool. DS and DH worked hard on it, and it was a good father-son experience for them.
Before the Derby, I also finished one sock! My first sock ever!
I know I said I was gonna do the 2-on-1 method, but I had a brain fart and got my circulars at Wally World. The only circs they had in the store. I thought the package said 5 and I didn't read the length. Well, it was 5 mm, which is a size 8 for those of us who don't understand why American measurement can't be like the rest of the world. So the needles were too big and too short for what I had envisioned, so I made do. I did one sock at a time and scaled down the pattern. And instead of these being regular socks, they're now more like slipper socks. Here's my progress.
Thursday night.
Friday morning
And these two are Friday evening.
I'm now on sock two, which I can hopefully get done no later than tomorrow morning so I have time to wash the acrylic to soften it. Comment and let me know what you think.
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
I need an Eight Day Week
Sorry it's been a while. The Gregi are over-booked, as usual.
The Pinewood Derby is this Friday, so DH and DS have been working like crazy to get everything done. The final assembly will be tonight, and hopefully they're still under the weight limit.
A somewhat distant relative passed away and the services were Thursday. Went to escort Nana and reconnect with cousins I haven't seen in 15-odd years. Why is it that it takes a funeral to bring family together?
And yesterday DS seems to have had a stomach bug. Her food went in one end, then came out both ends the same consistency it went in. It's bad when taking care of your children makes you want to throw up.
So, after all that excitement, there is still no rest for the wicked. Tonight is PTA, tomorrow is Resident's Association, Thursday is Pinewood Derby weigh-in, Friday is the Derby itself, and Saturday Sunday is AK's (daughter of Mrs K) birthday party.
For AK's birthday, I picked up a cute outfit in her fav color, purple. I also bought some purple/pink/pastel colored yarn to make a pair of socks to go with the outfit. I've never made socks before, and I'm going to do these using the 2-on-1 method with circular needles. (BTW- Also bought another pair of needles) So wish me luck. I'll try to have pics posted regularly so you can see how they're coming along.
I feel bad about posting this, as the quality isn't that great. It feels forced and rushed, but I am commited to my once-a-week resolution. Plus, it's taken me two hours to write this cuz I'm also making Pork Chops Pizzaiola at the same time. Now I gotta go start the rice and wake DD up so she eats before the PTA meeting. Whew!
The Pinewood Derby is this Friday, so DH and DS have been working like crazy to get everything done. The final assembly will be tonight, and hopefully they're still under the weight limit.
A somewhat distant relative passed away and the services were Thursday. Went to escort Nana and reconnect with cousins I haven't seen in 15-odd years. Why is it that it takes a funeral to bring family together?
And yesterday DS seems to have had a stomach bug. Her food went in one end, then came out both ends the same consistency it went in. It's bad when taking care of your children makes you want to throw up.
So, after all that excitement, there is still no rest for the wicked. Tonight is PTA, tomorrow is Resident's Association, Thursday is Pinewood Derby weigh-in, Friday is the Derby itself, and Saturday Sunday is AK's (daughter of Mrs K) birthday party.
For AK's birthday, I picked up a cute outfit in her fav color, purple. I also bought some purple/pink/pastel colored yarn to make a pair of socks to go with the outfit. I've never made socks before, and I'm going to do these using the 2-on-1 method with circular needles. (BTW- Also bought another pair of needles) So wish me luck. I'll try to have pics posted regularly so you can see how they're coming along.
I feel bad about posting this, as the quality isn't that great. It feels forced and rushed, but I am commited to my once-a-week resolution. Plus, it's taken me two hours to write this cuz I'm also making Pork Chops Pizzaiola at the same time. Now I gotta go start the rice and wake DD up so she eats before the PTA meeting. Whew!
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Adventures
First of all,thanks to Mrs. K for telling me about JoAnn Fabric, thanks to Pam for blogging about Knit Kit, and thank God for little miracles. Now on to the rant.
Yesterday was an adventurous day for the Gregi. First, DD went off to Nana's and I headed south to check out JoAnn Fabric in Princeton on Rte 1. Google has the location wrong; it's right before the QB Mall on the southbound side.
So I walk in and the first thing I notice is the great selection of fabric. Clean and organized, no bolts falling off shelves or cloth dragging on the floor. Second thing I notice is boxes of Lion Brand Yarn. Big boxes of Homespun and Vanna White. Of course I have to go check it out.
The boxes up front had yarn cheaper than the Michael's in North Bruns (closest to my house), so I decide to check out the rest of their selection. Yarn Sale! Pound of Love was on sale. Bernat's baby stuff was on sale. Wool Ease Thick and Quick (which I'm using for DH's sweater) was on sale. They even had some delicious sock yarn marked down, but I've never made socks, and don't own needles smaller than a US7. But I was thinking about it.
I make myself step back and look at the yarn section. JoAnn's has great price, great variety, but not a lot of quantity. There were tons of different colors of Homespun, but no more than three skeins per color. They only had two skeins of the Wool Ease I'm using for the sweater. JoAnn's is now my "go to" store for scarves, but I'll have to find another store for blankets and (hopefully) future sweaters.
So I finally got my fabric, and headed north after spending WAY too much time in that store. Into the land of customer service to return some overly pink clothes I got for DD from well-meaning friends of MIL. If any of you are reading this, DO NOT take all the tags off. I went to Penney's in EB, and they refused to takes things that they obviously carried because there was no JCP tag on them. They did take a onesie and a 3pc set for almost $30 in store credit. I got a nice onesie, a feetie, and two 3pc sets. The cashiers were nice, but I was stuck with four outfits that didn't fit and I didn't like.
I then went to Kohl's where the outfit I returned was marked down to $4.20. The customer service lady laughed at me, but I found two pairs of pants for $3 each and didn't mind throwing in the extra $1.80.
Now it's DD's turn for an adventure. I head home, pick up DS from the bus stop, get DD from Nana's, and head to SB to visit DD's buddy JB, to give them the unreturnable clothes. JB was born 19 days before DD, and her grandmother lives in my development, so the two have become friends. It was their first playdate, and it was adorable. They were smiling at each other and talking baby talk and playing on the mat together. At one point, DD had her hand stretched out and JB was sucking on her fingers. Awwww!
Yesterday was an adventurous day for the Gregi. First, DD went off to Nana's and I headed south to check out JoAnn Fabric in Princeton on Rte 1. Google has the location wrong; it's right before the QB Mall on the southbound side.
So I walk in and the first thing I notice is the great selection of fabric. Clean and organized, no bolts falling off shelves or cloth dragging on the floor. Second thing I notice is boxes of Lion Brand Yarn. Big boxes of Homespun and Vanna White. Of course I have to go check it out.
The boxes up front had yarn cheaper than the Michael's in North Bruns (closest to my house), so I decide to check out the rest of their selection. Yarn Sale! Pound of Love was on sale. Bernat's baby stuff was on sale. Wool Ease Thick and Quick (which I'm using for DH's sweater) was on sale. They even had some delicious sock yarn marked down, but I've never made socks, and don't own needles smaller than a US7. But I was thinking about it.
I make myself step back and look at the yarn section. JoAnn's has great price, great variety, but not a lot of quantity. There were tons of different colors of Homespun, but no more than three skeins per color. They only had two skeins of the Wool Ease I'm using for the sweater. JoAnn's is now my "go to" store for scarves, but I'll have to find another store for blankets and (hopefully) future sweaters.
So I finally got my fabric, and headed north after spending WAY too much time in that store. Into the land of customer service to return some overly pink clothes I got for DD from well-meaning friends of MIL. If any of you are reading this, DO NOT take all the tags off. I went to Penney's in EB, and they refused to takes things that they obviously carried because there was no JCP tag on them. They did take a onesie and a 3pc set for almost $30 in store credit. I got a nice onesie, a feetie, and two 3pc sets. The cashiers were nice, but I was stuck with four outfits that didn't fit and I didn't like.
I then went to Kohl's where the outfit I returned was marked down to $4.20. The customer service lady laughed at me, but I found two pairs of pants for $3 each and didn't mind throwing in the extra $1.80.
Now it's DD's turn for an adventure. I head home, pick up DS from the bus stop, get DD from Nana's, and head to SB to visit DD's buddy JB, to give them the unreturnable clothes. JB was born 19 days before DD, and her grandmother lives in my development, so the two have become friends. It was their first playdate, and it was adorable. They were smiling at each other and talking baby talk and playing on the mat together. At one point, DD had her hand stretched out and JB was sucking on her fingers. Awwww!
Here they are at Christmas (DD's the tiny one on the right)
And here they are yesterday.
Huge difference, right? And JB has a big sister who is the same age as DS, and they were having so much fun DS didn't want to leave. We all had so much fun that we made tentative plans to hang out Monday.
I've got a new LYS, DD's got a playdate buddy, and I can finally finish my blanket. I'll try to post pics and pattern tomorrow, seeing as MIL's going out to see her sister this weekend so it's gotta get done soon. Also, looking for a good scarf pattern. I wanna do cables on the self-striping yarn I picked up at JoAnn's for my uncle who's birthday was yesterday. E-mail or comment, let me know what ya got.
Friday, January 8, 2010
Another UFO (Unfinished Object)
I finally finished knitting a project on needles. I was on a knitting high, until I tried to find flannel to sew to the back of the throw. Unknown to me, Rag Shop went out of business! WTF? Where am I supposed to find a decent variety of fabric?
Since I use Michael's as my LYS (the nearest good one I know of is in Bridgewater), I know they don't have any fabric beyond bandannas and felt. I drove to AC Moore in EB, got some good yarn for a sweater for DH (another rant for another day), and went looking for cloth. ACM has large squares for quilting and flannel pajama bottoms, but no bolts of anything. I almost bought the pj's with the intent of using those, but it wasn't worth the time and money.
I haven't spoken with anyone at Michael's, but according to Mary at ACM they have no plans to carry bolts of fabric at this time. She told me to try WalMart. Now, our local Wally World had a horrible selection of costumes this past Halloween. I bought a set of long underwear this past fall, got it home and realized the top was not in the bag. DH had ripped the plastic when he opened it, and Wally World refused to accept the return, claiming it had been washed and blaming me for the missing piece. You can understand my reluctance to look for fabric there, let alone buy it.
So, to ease my angst at Wally World and Rag Shop, Auntee gave me the address and number of a fabric shop in Somerset and Nana told me to try a place on 22 in Plainfield. This is way too much work for a 4ft x 2ft piece of flannel. So until I get a chance to hunt down some fabric, the throw is now a UFO. So back to the afghan and starting on my first sweater ever.
BTW - Battery in camera died, so no pics of afghan for now. Will update soon.
Monday, January 4, 2010
New Year's Resolutions
2010 is finally here. I've been waiting for tis year all my life, as I hit the next big milestone of turning thirty. But for now I'm still 29.95
I've started blogs before, but never got past the second or third post. So first resolution: Post to my blog at least once a week. Between managing the lives of DH, DS, and DD, as well as trying to keep my own sanity intact, I can't commit to any more than that.
Second resolution: be a good housewife. Yes, I know it's unusual, but let me give you a little background. My mother and her mother (Nana) (who both live in NJ) worked outside of the home, and both were surprised with my decision to quit my job the summer of 2006 and become a SAHM. My dad's mother stayed home to raise her four kids, but she lives in VA and only has happy things to say to me. But that's another rant for another day.
Anywho... my mother not being domestically inclined and me not having a lot of SAHM role models growing up or now, being a housewife is a trial by fire. Trying to keep on top of laundry, cleaning, homework, appointments, cooking, and taking care of myself is very overwhelming, even at the best of times. DH, who's mom stayed home with him til 3rd grade, is appreciative, helpful, and uncomplaining as long as he has clean underwear.
Third resolution: get out more. I am what my Nana calls a Social Butterfly. I love meeting new people and doing new things and just being social. I just can't seem to find the time to do that anymore. I used to sing karaoke every Friday night with the guys from Mobile Music, but besides being tired as hell when 9pm rolls around, it's just not as fun as it used to be. So I need new stuff to do. When the weather's warm I want to take DD for walks in her stroller. I want to start a knitting group here in Deer Brook, or at least at the local library. And I need to spend more time with DD's godparents, who are wonderful people who put up with me taking forever to return phone calls.
Final resolution: keep up the good work. I quit smoking for DD, I've lost forty pounds over the last two years, and I finally got the filing under some semblance of control. I can't let things go back the way they were. I just gotta put one foot in front of the other, and hope that I don't wobble too much.
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