Knitting Content - Sort Of...

I received my final package from my SP13 pal yesterday. I have been spoiled by Kelly of The Vagabond Weaver. She's in the process, from what I see on her blog, of transferring her old posts into the new server she's with. It's been a real pleasure getting spoiled by her and I hope to get to know her better now that the Secret Pal 13 has run its course.

Here are the goodies she sent me this time - I love them all!! I got some yarny goodness - some Opal sock yarn (I think it's from the Rainforest collection because it has a picture of a toucan on it), some really soft 100% baby alpaca from Blue Sky Alpacas (Tinker Belle loved this. She tried to get at it numerous times). The colour number is 800. There are some really cute sandstone buttons in the picture too. I took a close-up of them so you could see the detail. She had everything wrapped up in super cute Easter bags. She wanted to celebrate Easter a little early since there's been so much snow lately...it was certainly a bright spot in the day!

Not only did Kelly send these items, but she had a cute tote bag included as well! It's nice and environmentally friendly - I can tote my yarn around in it, or I can take it to the grocery store and use it there.

I'm on March Break now, as of yesterday, and will have the next week off. Unfortunately, I have homework to keep me busy. I did a little of it last night but got stuck, so I'll wait to do the rest of it. I do plan on doing some relaxing this week though; things have been a little hectic at school the last couple of weeks. I plan on getting the scarf done for my Ravelry Scarf Exchange pal. I'm also supposed to make something for a couple of friends. We're having a little gift exchange of something handmade (it can't be food) and I haven't started yet - been so busy. We were going to have the exchange on St. Patrick's Day, but we moved it to April Fools Day. I have a month, but depending on what I make, and how much free time I have...I don't know if I'll get their gifts done on time...might have to extend the time on it. Hopefully I'll get something done for them on time though.

I made a couple of cards again today and I'll post those in a separate post...hopefully tomorrow. One of them is plain, but bright. The other I am quite fond of, though it's "plain" to a degree. I used some pattered paper and a little "border" and a cutout - a limited amount of supplies, but I'm happy with how it turned out. Anyway, I'll discuss those in the post tomorrow.

Happy knitting/crafting!

SP Package 2

On Thursday I came home between my last two classes because I was tired and thought some fresh air and change of scenery might help wake me up. Boy am I glad I did! I came home to find a package from my Secret Pal! Look what she sent me:

She had a really cute birthday card with a kitten and yarn on the front, a package of two DP Wip Tubes (which I really needed), a beautiful suncatcher, and some gorgeous, soft, yummy Fleece Artist Trail Socks yarn in the Seafoam colourway!

Thanks so much Secret Pal - I love it all!


Look how gorgeous the suncatcher is held up to the back window...sooooo pretty!

I've used Fleece Artist once before and find the socks to be nice and soft, especially after washing them. I have another hank of Fleece Artist wound into a ball (I had it with me when I went to South Korea), but haven't knit it up yet. I have the pattern for it (one from Monica), but I was waiting on the size 0 needles. I now have size 0, so all I need to do is get knitting.

I've got a presentation coming up this week, on Thursday, for the Social Studies Education class I'm in. It's a group project, and we are actually going to do a few activities in our lesson which we learned last semester when some of our class went to the Wetlands Center not too far from here. That was actually for our science class, but we chose to do this presentation for a grade 4 class, and in that curriculum there is a section on how humans affect rivers, lakes, oceans, etc. We talked it over with our prof (she also taught us the science class last semester) and she gave us the go-ahead to do it. She didn't get to go to the workshop with us, so she said she's anxious to see what we learned there. I'm sure it's going to go well. We've got another meeting or two this week to put things all together to make sure it falls into place.

A few months ago I got a new camera (Pentax K200D). A few weeks ago my friend, Michelle, invited me over to her place to help me learn some hints and tips for taking pics. I've used a 35mm SLR camera (Pentax as well), but I don't remember all that I had learned for using it. Besides, things are a little different with digitals...but the basics like aperture, f-stops, etc. are still the same. Anyway, we got some flowers at one of the grocery shops and did some macro shots. I've got about half a dozen up on my other blog, Confirm The Work of Our Hands, if anyone is interested in seeing them. I can't seem to get the posts to link, but they are the first two posts listed (would be the second and third if I manage to get a post made there before someone has a chance to visit).


I'll leave you all with a nice close-up of Tinker Belle. I had to snap quickly because she wouldn't stay still too long!

Happy knitting!

SP13 Gift!

I got my gift from my SP13 pal, and it is awesome! Yesterday was a gloomy, foggy, heavy rainy day that started out with ice and snow everywhere, making it slushy in most places. I was afraid to drive until I hit the highway where one lane was pretty clear...though there was probably some black ice. It wasn't as bad as they had said it would be the night before. However, the temperatures quickly rose to double digits and the rain came...I don't think I've seen it rain that hard in a long time.

So, when I got home from work (no problems driving, except for the wind so that was a little difficult driving down the highway), the box waiting for me was a bright spot to the day! Thank you so much, SP for my gift!

Needless to say, I couldn't wait to open it. Here's what I got:

A nice card, a cute snowman tin with a cute kitty ornament and knitted catnip mouse (for Tinker Belle), some chocolates (yummy!), and 2 skeins (or are those called hanks...I'm never sure) of Malabrigo yarn in the Carribbean colourway! It's so gorgeous and skooshy! I have never knit with this yarn, and it's been on my wishlist. I don't know what I will make with it yet...any suggestions??

Thank you so much SP!! I love it all! And Tinker Belle...well, she absolutely LOVED the mouse. She wouldn't put it down after I gave it to her. I had to take it back momentariliy to get a picture, and she kept meowing and pawing at my arm wanting me to give it back to her. She went nuts over it! I'll close with a pic of her enjoying her new mouse.

"Puuurrrr. Meow meow meow, meeeeooww!"*

* translation: Thanks Mommy's Secret Pal, I LOVE it!"

SP13 Questionnaire

The questionnaire is up for SP13 and thought I'd post my answers. I'll have to get back to this again soon and update some things. For the most part, my answers are below...


1. What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with? What fibers do you absolutely *not* like?

I like most yarns, though I don't care for acrylics at all. Even though my current WIP (or one of them) is in acrylic, I don't particularly like working with them. I've become a yarn snob!

2. What do you use to store your needles/hooks in?

I have a small needle holder for DPNs.

3. How long have you been knitting & how did you learn? Would you consider your skill level to be beginner, intermediate or advanced?

I have been knitting pretty much since 2001/2002. I learned to do the knit and purl stitch as a young child in brownies, but that was all. I eventually taught myself to knit with a bit of help from a friend. I would consider myself an intermediate knitter.

4. Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list?

I have a Loopy Ewe wish list on the side bar.

5. What's your favorite scent?

Love fruit flavour scents. I am allergic to many flowery type scents.

6. Do you have a sweet tooth? Favorite candy?

I definitely have a sweet tooth! I love milk chocolate (don't care for dark or white) and I love Swedish Berries and most things chocolate or sweet, sour patch kids.

7. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do? Do you spin?

I can crochet, I am into making cards and I can spin a little, though I haven't worked on it in a year (couldn't fit it in my suitcase when I went to Korea for a year, and haven't had the opportunity to work on it since coming back). I have a drop spindle, and not a wheel.

8. What kind of music do you like? Can your computer/stereo play MP3s? (if your buddy wants to make you a CD)

I mostly listen to Christian/Worship music. My computer can play mp3 (I think) and I do have an mp3 player.

9. What's your favorite color(s)? Any colors you just can't stand?

Fav colour is purple but I also like blues, greens, varigated, pastels, jewel tones. Don't care for browns, rusts, neon colours, not too fond of orange (though some mixed in with other colours is nice sometimes).

10. What is your family situation? Do you have any pets?

I'm single (waahhh!) and I have a cat named Tinker Belle.

11. Do you wear scarves, hats, mittens or ponchos?

I wear scarves, mittens, gloves...no hats (my hair if fine and gets extremely staticy in winter) and no ponchos. I do like to knit hats though.

12. What is/are your favorite item/s to knit?

socks, baby items, hats, scarves

13. What are you knitting right now?

a scarf, socks, baby sweater (Get Ziggy to be exact)

14. Do you like to receive handmade gifts?

yes

15. Do you prefer straight or circular needles? Bamboo, aluminum, plastic?

I like both straight and circular, though I prefer circular for hats. I like bamboo, aluminum...not plastic though. I do have a couple pairs of plastic needles and they are ok, but not my favourites to use.

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

I have a newly purchased yarn winder (no swift though).

17. How old is your oldest UFO?

gosh...I'm not sure...maybe a year and a half to two years?

18. What is your favorite holiday? What winter holiday do you observe?

Fav. holiday is Christmas, followed by my birthday (see below), and I observe Christmas. Not sure what other winter holidays are out there...lol

19. Is there anything that you collect?

yarn (of course, lol), cats

20. Any books, yarns, needles or patterns out there you are dying to get your hands on? What knitting magazine subscriptions do you have?

No subscriptions to any magazines, though I love many of them (not too fussy with the magazines). Many books, yarns, needles, patterns I'm yearning for. Keep checking back and I'll try to update this a little more. There are so many new yarns out there that I'd like (see my Loopy Ewe wish list in the side bar), Malabrigo sounds great and I'd like to try that, as well as STR. Patterns...again, so many to choose from!

21. Are there any new techniques you'd like to learn?

Always wanting to learn new techniques. I want to learn to knit socks on 2 circs at the same time. I have a DVD that shows how...just need to sit down and watch it!

22. Are you a sock knitter? What are your foot measurements?

Definitely a sock knitter. I have a US size 8 foot (well, two of them actually, lol).

23. When is your birthday?

January 20

24. Are you on Ravelry? If so, what's your ID?

Yes, I'm on Ravelry. My ID is Tabby2004 (at least I think that's what it is...that's what I use to sign on with. Hmm...feeling quite computer illiterate right about now...think I must have lost some brain cells along the way...hehehe.

So, Secret Pal, if you have any other questions, please feel free to ask! Looking forward to getting to know you!

Lookie Here!

Remember I told you I was working on a pair of children's socks out of the yarn hand dyed for my by my SP10 pal, Robyn? Well, lookie here:

I finished the pair today, on break at work none the less. This pair went quickly, probably because I was anxious to see how they would look. They are nice and bright and pretty. I call them my Summer Sunset Socks because of the sunsetty (is that a word?) colours.

They are my typical stocking stitch children's sock knit on four DPNs (I think the size was 2.75 mm). In the picture they are resting on the rhodedendron out front.

Next up, for my knitting at work, will be a baby sweater done in Lion Brand Cottonease (I think) with a pattern I got from one of those tear off pads at Michael's. I chose the same colours as wasin the picture on the pattern because I liked the way they looked. There is a yellow (not bright but more mustardy I think), a rose pink shade, and a berry colour. I'll take a picture at some point when I start knitting so you can better judge the colours. Anyway, I liked they way they looked together. I'll also take sock yarn and needles along just in case I feel like working on another sock and not the sweater.

I ran into a big of a snag with my sockapalooza socks. I hope my pal doesn't stumble along to my blog and read this, otherwise she'll know I'm her pal. I've sent her an email with this in it, but she hasn't replied yet. I did a swatch with the needles and yarn, consulted my Sensational Knitted Socks book to see how many to cast on. So, I get 72 stitches because I'm using fine/sport weight yarn and size 2.75mm needles.

I've knit several rounds of the cuff, and only have a few more to go before starting the leg pattern, but to me this sock is looking big and would be too stretchy. I'm also afraid that if the sock is big, I'll run out of yarn (100g). She doesn't like toe up socks, so that is out of the question.

I guess my question to anyone who can help, is this: is 72 stitch too much? Should I cast on less? Should I disregard the gauge I got and just cast on the number of stitches the pattern calls for (60 stitches, but the size is for women's medium...my pal wears a US size 8 sock with a 10" foot length and 9" circumference). Help! I don't know what to do! I'm not good at substitution, so I don't know if I were to use a regular sock weight yarn if the pattern/sizing would work out well (since it would be a different weight sock yarn). Any thoughts, suggestions, ideas? I could really use your helps since I need to get cracking on these socks!

And, to leave off on a happy note...

The Time of Revelation

Gee, that title sounds kind of apocalyptic or Biblical doesn't it? Well, in all actuality, the revelation is neither apocalyptic or Biblical - the revelation is of my awesome SP10 pal! That's right! Today I found out who my secret pal is!

She is none other than Robyn from Knit and Purl Mama! Today I received an envelope with a pattern for the Seize Diamondbacks socks, as well as the dvd for the Knitty Gritty show the designer of the socks was on.

Robyn, thank you so much for all the awesome gifts you've sent - I love everything! You've made my first experience with Secret Pal wonderful, and I'm so glad I decided to take part this time. I'm going to join again, though it probably won't be until SP12, because I'll be getting reading and heading to South Korea during the next round (assuming they start it in the next couple of months).

Robyn has an etsy shop (she actually got me sent me some earrings from there pretending that she ordered them from "Robyn", not letting on it was her shop!), called graphicdesignchick. Go check it out - look at those oh so cute dragonfly stitch markers! She's also going to be opening her own online yarn shop that will be located at www.robynsnest.ca. Right now, however, it takes you to her blog but once she has the shop up and running that is the address you can find it at. I can't wait to see the yarns she'll have!

In other news, I've begun a children's pair of socks in the red/yellow/orange yarn that Robyn sent me a little while ago. I've got one sock finished and will begin the other one this weekend. I've been pretty much knitting this sock at work during breaks and lunch, but I did do the cuff and gusset at home. I'm also planning on starting the socks for my Sockapalooza pal this weekend, and I really hope they turn out!

When I finished my ISE4 pal's scarf, I promised to post a picture and the pattern when she got the package. However, I sent it out on June 7th but I haven't heard anything from her. I don't know if she has gotten the package or not. She's also not posted anything on the ISE4 blog saying she received it yet either. Regardless, I will try to get the pattern and picture up Sunday or Monday.

Well, off to read some more of Robyn's blog - you should see her little fella; he's so adorable and has the sweetest smile!

Where Am I?

Well, I'm still here. I wish I could say I've been so extremely busy that I haven't had time to blog, but that's not the case. I've just been a little lazy I guess.

I got a postcard (from Boston) and another package (haven't taken the pic yet) from my awesome Secret Pal. She said she's got one more package for me - the reveal package, in which I will find out just who she is. She asked me in the card that was in the last package if she should wait til the end of the month to reveal herself or if she should send it sooner. I'm quite fine if she decides to wait til the end of the month...afterall, we're pretty much half way through June now (where has the time gone?). Thank you so much for the package & post card SP!

In knitting news, I've been working at the mindless knitting at work - the scarf made with the yarn I dyed with Easter egg dyes. It's looking pretty, and I'm not far from being finished with it. I only work at it during lunch and breaks at work, that's why it's not finished yet.

I've also been slowly working at the scarf for my friend at work. I've only got about three repeats of the pattern finished though. I'm doing the Dayflower Lace scarf, and I'm wondering if the yarn I'm using is working with the pattern. I'm sure once it is blocked it will look more like the pattern. Right now it's a little difficult to see the pattern, but when I stretch it some I can see it a little better. I just hope it turns out well enough to give her as a retirement gift.

I was waiting for my yarn to come in so I could start on my Sockapalooza Pal's socks. It finally came in yesterday, but now I don't know if I'll have enough. I got some Panda Wool (2 skeins) to make her socks, and the pattern I was going to use (and an alternate one) both say to use nearly 3 skeins of the wool for larger socks. My pal's feet is a smidgen bigger than mine and she likes them about 7 1/2" from the cuff to the heel. I'm afraid that I won't have enough yarn with the Panda, so I just might go ahead and use some sock yarn from my stash (though I might also have to use a different pattern because my stash yarn doesn't have any solids in it, and the patterns I planned on using would look better in a solid yarn). I've been thinking about using one of the patterns (as an alternative) from Sensational Knitted Socks, but now I think that pattern might also look better in a solid yarn. Oh, what to do, what to do!

I want to get these socks started soon so I can get them completed and off to her before I have to spend my time getting ready for South Korea. I think we have to have the socks to our pals in August, and since I leave sometime in August, I'd like to make sure I get my pal's socks out on time - if not a little early. But first, I have to finish the Razor Shell sock (still slowly working on it from time to time) because I need those needles...unless I use a 2.75mm needle...though that would make for a looser sock.

At any rate, I should work on one of my WIPs and get it completed instead of doing little bits of several of them. That way I'd have some pics of FOs to show. Off to work on some knitting since I've slowed down on that in the evenings so I won't aggrivate the carpal tunnel. So far it isn't bothering me, so I guess I'll get some knitting done while I can!

As Promised...

Here is the pic I took of everything my Secret Pal sent in the last package...the pic I forgot to download from the camera for the last post:And as you can see...Tinker Belle had to make her presence known and approve of everything (which she did).

Also, I did some knitting over the weekend. I started the scarf for my friend at work, but there isn't enough of it done yet to show any pics. I'm using the Yarn Guard and a set of the needles my SP sent in this last package with this project. I also worked a little on the scarf that I take to work with me...the mindless knitting one.

Also, I made one of these: a dishcloth dress. The pattern calls for 5.0mm needles, but my 5.0's are in use with a UFO/WIP, so I used the 5.5's that my SP sent in this last package. The stitches are a little loose, so I think the size 5 needles would be best. I did a sample one not long ago on 4.5mm needles (I messed it up so I didn't take a pic of it), and it was smaller in size.

The picture on the left was taken with the flash so the colours are lighter, and the one above right was without the flash and of course the colours are showing darker. The actual colour is probably closer to the top part of the "dress", and it is made with Bernat Cotton.

This is a really easy pattern, and it is so cute! If you'd like to try the pattern, you can find it here (it's free). I've got some other colours of the cotton to make a few more of these.

And finally, remember I've been saying I've been preoccupied with something, and was late with my SAM3 socks? There is a good reason. I had a phone interview that night. You can read about what is going on with regard to that at my other blog, Confirm The Work Of Our Hands, and see what my future holds.

I Hit The Mother Load!

Ok, first off, for HDW I submit the following picture of my May socks. Yes, I know I am a day late with it, but I had a good reason for the hold up. Here they are:

These are children's size 2-4, knit on 2.75 mm (I think) DPNs, using Paton's Kroy (I forget the colourway) in a basic stocking stitch pattern. I've already added them to the bin I keep for stuff to put on the mitten tree at church at Christmas.

Ok...now on to the real fun - not that knitting socks isn't realy fun, but this next fun is a different kind of fun! You see, my awesome Secret Pal told me the other day that she sent out my final package. She had said I should receive it by today (Friday). I actually got the package the day before yesterday. It took a whopping 2 days to get to me - 2 days! Is Canada Post good or what!?

Ok...I just realized that the main picture I had taken with most of the loot did not get put onto the computer...so I'll make do with the onesI have. I will try to get that picture posted another time though.

Here you see the lovely Tinker Belle claiming things as her own. In this picture you see some fortune cookies (yummy), Jolly Rancher candy (also yummy), 2 sets of kniting needles (sizes 10mm and 5.5mm) one pair in teal, one in pink, some point protectors, a pretty shade of pink ink stamp for card making/scrapbooking, and a foam sheep to decorate (it's really cute). What you don't see is the beautiful card my SP sent...and that is because Miss Tinker Belle is laying on it! Also in the package were three kinds of beads (white ones, pink ones and goldish coloured ones), some other candy (chewy gum drop kind, Jolly Rancher Rocks, Hubba Bubba gum, two little snack cakes, a package of French Vanilla cappuccino mix), a little book of search a word puzzles, a small blank scrap book, some 3.00mm bamboo knitting needles, a key chain...and I'm sure I'm forgetting some other things. However, I do have some pictures of other items from the box!

This is a cute little angel ornament with a knitting charm. I have one like this that I got from one of the older ladies at church last year when I graduated. Instead of the knitting charm, though, it has one of those hats you wear for graduation.

Next up is a set of pretty stitch markers! I love these! She also sent a pair of adorable earrings and a heart shaped measuring tape! I was going to get another measuring tape so that I could keep one at home and take the other with me in my knitting bag so that I wouldn't forget to take it with me some time (it's been known to happen...). This one will go with me in my knitting bag for sure.

Next up, below, is a yarn guard which will come in handy and help keep the kitty from trying to attack it when I'm knitting. SP had packed several of the smaller items from the package in the yarn guard...very clever! I probably wouldn't have thought to do that.
Also in the box were 2 skeins of sock yarn (that is going to look great knit up into socks!), and 2 hanks (I think that's what you call them) of red yarn - 30% silk, 70% wool, 50 g/500 m. There is no ballband on the yarn, so I am assuming she may have spun (and maybe dyed) the yarn herself. Hopefully she will let us know in the comments about the yarn. Anyway, it is so soft and squishy and I have a strong feeling it might become a lace scarf...

The final picture I have is of a gorgeous little bag! It is pink and black, with a black lining, and I absolutely LOVE this! It is the perfect size to carry a sock project in progress. It looks hand made, and again I don't know if she made it or not. I do know she sews because she made that cute little dpn holder for me a little while back.

My Secret Pal has proved over and over again that she is absolutely AWESOME!! I love everything you have sent to me, SP. You have really outdone yourself and made my first experience with secret pal a fabulous one. Thank you so, so much!!

Two More Packages

Friday I received another envelope from my awesome Secret Pal, and again today I received another envelope from her. Here is what I got:Friday's envelope contained the pattern book to make a Scarecrow Family! How cute! There are patterns to make several stuffed scarecrow toys and they are all bright and colourful. I really want to make some of those (or even all of them). My Pal said she knew that I knit for charity and thought that I might like to knit some toys as some of my charity knitting - how thoughtful! I haven't knit any toys yet, but I've had my eye on a few different ones that I'd like to try and now I can add these little scarecrows!

On the right side of the picture is the package I received today. It's a little sock blocker key ring and pattern for to make the sock! I have had my eye on this particular item for a little while now and had planned on ordering one - now I don't have to, because my pal sent one to me! She said she is going to be opening a yarn shop soon, and she's going to be offering these in the shop too. I think she'll do well with selling them. I've seen these all over blogland and they are definately a popular item!

Not much knitting going on - trying to get a child's pair of socks done before the end of the month to count as my May socks and have been working on a pair I started awhile back and never got around to finish. I'm still on the first sock, and I'm going to have to knit like a maniac in order to get the pair done and a pic posted by the 31st! I've just quite busy the last few weeks and have been preoccupied with something else other than knitting. I should be able to let you know shortly what I've been preoccupied with...if all works out, it will be great news, but if it doesn't, then it will be bad news...

So, off I go to do a quick browsing of some knitting blogs and then work on the sock...must...get...socks...done...soon. Happy knitting!

Mail Call!

What a great mail day this was! Not only did I get a book to review for CFBA (Christian Fiction Blog Alliance), which I joined a couple of months ago (see my writing blog, Ink Scrawls, for reviews of some great books), but I got another little gift from my awesome Secret Pal and my prize from a contest I won!

Ok, first up, the gift from my secret pal:
Sorry for the terrible pic. She sent me some stitch marker supplies and some scrapbooking supplies (at the bottom). The stitch marker supplies are the pin thingys you put the beads on, and the scrap booking supplies are letter tiles that look like bottle caps. She also said that my big package will be sent out the end of the month so that I get it in June - I'm so excited! Thanks so much SP, I love it and I'm looking forward to the June package!

The prize I won was for some sock yarn, Sol Joy (100 grams, 100% Superwash Merino) in the colour Polar. It looks and feels yummy! I can't wait to see it knit up into a pair of socks. What pattern would I use? Not sure just yet, but whatever I choose, I know it will look awesome! It looks light in the picture, but in actuality, it is a little darker. Kerry held a contest on her blog back in April and she drew the winning name and I was surprised that I had won. I had actually forgot that I had entered the contest. So, I was scrolling her blog on the weekend (I had been busy and hadn't been by her blog or several others for a few days), and lo and behold was a post saying that I had won. I emailed her to let her know I had finally saw the post and given her my address. However, she informed that she had it already because she is my group hostess/leader for SP10, and she already had the yarn in the mail! Thanks so much Kerry!

Now, a couple of people tagged me for the 7 thing about me meme that is going around blogland. I am supposed to list 7 things about myself and then choose 7 others to tag, they in turn do the meme themselves. So, let's see if I can come up with something...

1. When I was little I was scared by fire truck sirens. My dad used to volunteer at the fire department (driving a tanker) and one year at Christmas he was holding me up at the Santa Claus parade when the decorated fire truck drove by (they would have some of the firemen dressed up as clowns and they would throw candy to the kids in the crowd). The driver saw my dad and right when he got in front of us, he blew the siren and it was so LOUD. I must have been about 4 at the time, and for the longest time (probably until I was about 9 or 10) I got scared and would cover my ears whenever I heard a fire truck's siren - especially it was close to us.

2. When I was about six or seven, there had been rumors that the world was going to end and naturally I got scared when I heard that. I envisioned everyone and everything floating in space forever and that just didn't really appeal to me. So, the day after it was supposed to happen, my brother, my mother and I were in my brother's room (don't remember why, just that that was where we were) and I looked out the window and asked my mom if the world had ended. My brother said to me, "No Stupid, we're still here. If it ended we wouldn't be here."

3. I have a crush on Matthew McConaughey. 'Nuff said.

4. I love rocking chairs - ever since I was little, I have loved rocking in rocking chairs. I find it relaxing and do all my knitting (at least when I'm at home knitting) in my rocking chair.

5. I am allergic to many scented products like flowery scented perfums/lotions/bath products/candles, some household cleaners, smoke (and dust but that isn't scented). However, fruit scented things do not bother me in the least.

6. I love the cranberry lemon muffins from Tim Horton's. However, this has only been a feature product now and then, and they don't offer this kind of muffin all the time. Such a shame really, because they are yummy!

7. Apparently I can't count. I had typed a 7 instead of a 6 and was in the process of saying 'ok, there are the 7 things about me' when I noticed the error. Sheesh.

Oh, and to end off, yesterday my friend Sarah and I took the morning off from our jobs so we could drive up to Fredericton (about 1 1/2 hours away) to the provincial passport office to take in our passport applications to hurry the process along. Anyway, on the way there we drove past a farm (there were more than one, but just this one in particular applies to the story). I look out the window and what do I see on the hill - sheep! So, naturally I point and say in an excited joy-filled voice, "Sheep!" Sarah just laughed at me as though I were nuts (ok, I am, but that's besides the point). I told her I would blog about this experience because anyone who is a knitter (and/or spinner) would totally understand my reaction. Sheep are a knitter's/spinner's best friend; we like sheep. I told her that I was going to tell you all how she laughed at me for my joy at spotting the sheep. She laughed at me again. These non-knitters, I'm telling you...I told her I was going to teach her to knit and she agreed; I don't know how serious she was though. She might have just wanted to humour the crazy knitter sitting in her car.

I thought Christmas...

...was four months ago? Isn't Christmas in December? That's what I thought. Today, however, Christmas came once again!
Look at that bounty! Whatever could all those presents be? I mean, look at that wrapping paper...sheepies! It was so cute! I was surprised that Tinker Belle wasn't around to help me unwrap. Usually she's nosy and want to see and sniff everything, but she was downstairs somewhere. So, I proceeded to unwrap these mysterious presents.

I opened the card first, which said that the autograph finally came in the mail, and I'd know what was meant when I opened the gift. As well, my pal was going to send me a huge present in June (which she asked if that was alright with me, and it was), but couldn't wait. So this package came as a total shock to me. So, here you see the autograph that was being spoken of...The Yarn Harlot's! My SP10 pal got me Stephanie Pearl McPhee's Knitting Rules! book...with an autograph! How awesome! I can't wait to start reading it; I've heard a lot of great things about her book and this is something I had on my Amazon wish list.
Here is everything unwrapped...the book, a package of blank "knitting" note cards , some playing cards with a knitting image on the front (very cute, and I don't think I've seen any with knitting on them before), some chocolate "poker chips", four Scrabble tile magnets with the letter 's' on the fronts, some "S" sticky notes 2 episodes of Knitty Gritty that can't be gotten here in Canada (one episode is the one with the Yarn Harlot on it, and the other talks about dying yarn with Scout from Scout's Swag...I think that's her name...), 2 skeins of yarn - one sock (I think, because it's in Dutch I assume since it says HWS Nieuwegein, Holland on the label; it also says Scheepjes Invicta Coloris, so I think that might be the brand, but I'm not sure. The colour is 1712 and it is multicolour - very pretty) and one of the Eco-Fil yarn in purple (it's sort of hiding behind the dvd episodes), and finally a stitch marker kit that even says Shelley's Stitch Marker Kit on the front...too cool (and it's a purple case to boot! I took a close-up of what is inside...everything needed to make stitch markers! I will definately take pics and show you the markers I'll make from this awesome little kit. Finally, what was in the package...something I don't think I've seen before...the pinkish thing in the pic above, which the book is laying on (that is really a lilac/lavender colour), is a bag that you can zip up into a little case! My pal wrote on the tag that it could be used as a knitting bag, and that is no doubt what I'll be using it for!

I'm telling you, my SP10 pal rocks! Thank you so, so much SP10 Pal...I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE everything!!!

Now, if that weren't enough, I also got another package today from The Loopy Ewe. I ordered something in it for my SP10 giftee (which I hope she'll like, and hope she doesn't already have). I liked so much what I was getting her, that I got the same thing for myself...so I can't show you what it is just yet. That will have to wait until SP10 is over ;o).

I'm very impressed with The Loopy Ewe's service, and Sheri had shipped my order out the day after I placed it. The only thing I didn't like, and wasn't expecting, was when the package came to the door, the mail carrier had to collect GST and a handling fee (which came to $11.76). I think, though, that that was because of the declared amount on the customs sticker...it must have been over the limit of what can be shipped without charging the tax. That's the only thing I can think of. But, it's not Sheri's fault and I don't hold it against her in any way, shape, or form.

The reason I think that it might be the declared value that was the cause of this, was because when I got the yarn from Woolly Boully the other day, I didn't have to pay anything. I'll just have to watch what I order from The Loopy Ewe the next time so that the amount won't be high...hard to do though; Sheri's got some yummy yarn and stuff at her shop!!

Anyway, I definately recommend The Loopy Ewe. If you've not been there, her link is in my sidebar (under the title, "Order From")...go and check her out, and tell her Shelley from Kitten Knits Yarn sent ya!

A Surprise and Yarny Goodness

Yesterday I awoke to a wonderful surprise. My SP10 pal struck again and sent me these awesome earrings! Aren't they cool? I haven't worn earrings in a dog's age, but she had emailed me and asked if I had my ears pierced so I thought I would go and check. I took a pair of earrings I had, soaked them in some alcohol and slowly tried to get them in. What luck! I was able to get them in! So when I got this little package yesterday, I was able to put them in my ears!
To the left you can see one in my ear...man was that ever a hard picture to get. I kept getting the camera in most of the shots but I finally was able to get this one. Pay no attention to the grey in the hair that is showing...

Unfortunately, I didn't keep them in for too long because I didn't want my ears to get sore since I haven't worn earrings for awhile. I'll wear them for a little bit each day (in fact I have them in as I am typing this up and so far so good!) until I am sure my ears won't get sore. They are so cute, and I can just imagine wearing them when I have my 'I Love Knitting' t-shirt (that I won from Karen's contest last November or December) on and doing some knitting! Thank you so much SP10 pal, they are great! I love them!

Also, you can see in the picture at the top, the link for the Etsy shop my pal got the earrings from, GraphicDesignChick.etsy.com, so I'll give that a little plug here. I haven't visited there yet, but after I finish this post I will go and take a gander at what she has there.


Today was another good mail day. Well, any day when you don't get bills is a good mail day, I suppose. Anyway, here is what I got today:
This is some superwash sock yarn, 80% superwash merino and 20% nylon. It is approximately 440 yards of yarny goodness! I took the picture in the little greenhous that is set up on the back patio, and used the geraniums that are starting to grow (they'll be planted in front of the house at some point), as a backdrop. Look at the colours - so vibrant! The part in the shad, toward the right of the picture, is the most accurate (the sun is shining on the rest so you don't get a very good idea). There are actually two or three shades of pink in it, as well as white and brown. The colour is appropriately named, Neopolitain...and now I'm wanting some neopolitain ice cream. I think I have a pattern in mind that I am going to use this yarn with, so stay tuned to see what this yarny goodness turns into.
I ordered this yarn from an etsy store, Woolly Boully (found her via someone's blog I had visited), and she shipped it out very quickly. She allowed me to send a money order, and as soon as she received it she shipped my yarn to me. She also threw in a cute stitch marker (which I forgot to include in the picture) with my order. So, go check out Jenny's shop as well! She has a few more colourways that I have my eye on, too (such as the Moon Flowers colourway).

That's all for now. Today is going to be filled with practicing my flute and knitting...but mostly knitting. My ISE4 pal's scarf is now 2 repeats longer than it was yesterday, and last night I got about 5 or 6 rows of the Secret Sock done. I was getting rather tired so before starting the lacy pattern on the leg I put it away and went to bed. I didn't want any disasters on my hands, so I did the safe thing and waited until I was more awake to work on it. I'll work at that today, and maybe get a pic of it up tomorrow or on the weekend so you can see how it's looking.


Happy Knitting!

Another F.O.

Remember the scarf I said I was working on...the lacy one that was working up quickly? Well, I got it done and blocked. It's the Kid Merino Cat's Paw Lace Scarf only I didn't use Kid Merino for it. I used Peruvian Pure Alpaca from Elann in the sangria colour.

When I ordered it, I thought the colour might be a little redder than it actually is (which is more of a reddish brown colour) because I wanted to make a scarf for a friend of mine from work because she is retiring in August. I know a scarf isn't really a summer item, but hey, this is Canada - we get winter up here!

Anyway, I don't know if I will give it to her now or not. I have some more of this yarn left, so what I might end up doing is taking it into work when I start (on May 7) and asking her what she thinks of the colour. If she likes it, then I'll gift her with the scarf. If not, then the scarf will go in the 25 Things For Charity tub I have and be put on the Mitten Tree at church at Christmas time.

Here's a closeup of one of the "cat prints". It doesn't really look like one to me, at least in this picture, but even if it doesn't look like a cat's paw, it looks kind of like a little flower so that will be acceptable.


Ok, as I said, I used alpaca (and boy was it soft!) yarn in the sangria colourway and size 6mm needles. It was a little slow going because the only size 6 I had (or at least that I could find) were plastic ones and the yarn didn't move too easily. It would have gone much better and quicker if I had bamboo or aluminum. I know I have 5.5mm and 6.6mm bamboo's, but I honestly don't know if I have 6.0mm in bamboo or not. At any rate, the scarf is done and blocked and overall I think the pattern turned out lovely (even if it doesn't quite look totally like cat paw prints to me...but that might be because of the way I had blocked it too).


I'm still working on my ISE4 pal's scarf. Now that school is done (with the exception of my TESL practicum which will be done next week), I will have a little more knitting time until I start back to work.


Oh, and I've started on the Secret Socks from the CD that my awesome Secret Pal 10 pal sent me not long ago! I'll show more of that when I get more done. I needed a break from studying the other night, so for about 1/2 an hour I worked on the sock for that...well maybe not quite 1/2 an hour...I got 8 rows done. This is a first for me (well, not only knitting a 'secret' pattern from a CD)...this sock is done on 2 needles! I was debating on trying to 'adjust' and use 4 dpns, but thought to myself, 'no, I am going to try some new things with my knitting this year so I am going to attempt to do it on 2 needles.'


Anyway, I think the pattern is from a podcast...at least that is what it sounds like so far...pretty cool! I have only listened to 3 podcasts (none of them from this lady because she has an accent, and the ones I've heard don't have any accents), but am thinking of downloading some for when I start to work. We are allowed to listen to the radio, CD player, etc. while working (data entry) so long as we have our earphones one. But, like I said, when I get further along in the sock, I'll post a pic of what it's looking like because right now it doesn't look like much of anything, lol.


So, now I must go and get caught up on reading some blogs and then do some knitting! Happy knitting to you!

S Is For...

Spinning
I did some more spinning Sunday and Monday. Yes, not to worry, I did some studying for my exams too.
I used the extra stuff Heidi had given us at the end of class to practice with. In the foreground of the picture, you'll see some with two colours; that is a bit of leftover from class that I wanted to use up before switching to the offwhite. I just came from an exam and all my spinning terms are somewhere in the back of my brain, laying dormant for when they can come forward and shine again...until then, they will remain in hibernation (at least until after my exam on Tuesday).
Anyway, there are definately differences in the spinning; some thicker areas and some thinner. The above is two plied, and I am so stoked (whatever that means) that I remembered to twist the drop spindle the opposite way to what the singles were done!
To the right is the ball of all the top that I spun. Offhand, I'd say it's probably a little smaller than the size of a tennis ball, or close to it anyway. After I had done the plying, I soaked it and hung it to dry (with a coffee cup for a weight). There isn't enough to knit anything with, but I'll either keep it as is for future comparisons, or I'll just knit a swatch up to see how it looks (and use for future comparisons). Not really sure right now though. I also have done some spinning when taking breaks from studying. I've been using some of the coloured roving I bought after the class the other day and I must say that I am doing it much thinner than I have - a big improvement. There aren't as many big fluffy sections as in the beginning. I haven't a clue what size the yarn would/will be once plied, but I am guessing probably chunky or something like that. It's definately not sock yarn size. I'll try to take a pic of it over the next day or so, so you can see how I've come along. It's still far from perfect, but I'm proud of it (at least so far).

Here's a blurry pic of Tinker Belle. I think she likes the spinning...or at least the wool. When I was trying to take pics of it she got up to grab hold of it. The camera was sitting on the stool so I just pointed and shot the pic before she got away - didn't want her taking my yarn with her! S is also for Secret Pal

Yup, she's done it again! My SP10 pal sent me two more little packages, and I go them today.

The first one I opened had a cute little "knitting" card which explained what the pouch was. It's a dpn holder! It's so cute! She made it herself, and I think she did an awesome job on it! Under the flap, there is a ribbon (held on one end with velcro and sewn in on the other) to hold stitch holders so they don't get lost in travel. I should try to remember to take a close up of it so you can see it better. Maybe I'll try and do that tomorrow when I take a break from studying. It's really cute and she used three different patterned materials to make it. Plus, the ribbon is pretty and colourful polka dots. My SP said she is new to sewing, but I think she did a fantastic job on this! I don't think I'd know how to make one of these.

In the other package was a nice little note and some patterns (a scarf and some socks)! I tell you, my SP is definately spoiling me - but I like being spoiled! Thanks so much Secret Pal, you rock!! I can't wait to start knitting these patterns, and the one from the CD in the last package too. Can't wait for exams to be finished so I can focus on knitting these in the evenings! I tell you, it was hard to study for awhile after the mail came today. I had to take these patterns and dpn holder and put them away so that I wouldn't be tempted to even look at them while studying (been hard enough trying to focus on studying - I'm sick of studying, sick I tell ya!). I do admit that a couple of times I did put my notes down and go fondle the dpn holder and look over the patterns...but not for long.

Well, my next exam in on Monday (then one on Tuesday), so tomorrow I'll have to get back to studying. But for tonight, I am going to go and knit! Now, I have been getting a little knitting done. When I wake up in the morning I'm not awake enough to study right away (or do much of anything), so I've been doing some somewhat mindless knitting. I've been doing a lacy scarf that I had intended for a friend of mine at work (which I start back to on May 7). She likes the colour red, and I had ordered some alpaca yarn from Elann in the colour sangria. I thought it was more redder than it is (it's more of a reddish brown), but thought I'd knit up the scarf in it anyway. Well, I'm undecided if I'll gift it to her or not (might just take a ball of the yarn in and ask her what she thinks of the colour and if she likes it, then she can have the scarf. If she doesn't like it, then I'll put the scarf on the mitten tree at Christmas or find someone else to gift it to. Anyway, the scarf is a quick knit (when I can knit it...I usually only do a repeat each morning, and have about 4 more repeats to do) so it shouldn't take long to finish it, especially after exams are done. I'll have to block it as well, but I'll definately put a pic up when it's done.

For now, I am off to work on my ISE4 pal's scarf as I haven't worked on that since before the weekend. I'm over half done with it, and it too seems to work up fairly quickly. Gotta love the quick knits!

Happy Knitting!!

SP Strikes Again!

She's done it again...I got more mail from my SP10 pal again today! Firstly, the other day I got another post card from her, and today here is what I received:

There is a little note on such pretty paper (I love the font she used too), as well as a diary/calendar from Simply Knitting. Each month is coordinated with a ball of yarn and on the front it tells you which month is which colour (too cool!). Inside there is a place to record family member's measurements to keep handy for when you knit for them; there is a page with lists of organizations accepting knitting (charities to knit for); a page with needle and crochet hook sizes with conversions; a page to record the needle and hook sizes you have; the calendar, and finally, some places you can order yarn from (in the UK). It's really cool!

Also, my wonderful SP included a CD that has step-by-step instructions (to listen to) for knitting a "secret" sock. Once you knit it up, then you will see the pattern! I'm excited to try this, and can't wait to see how the socks turn out! I think I'm going to use the sock yarn with aloe and jojoba that I had ordered from Mary Maxim not too long ago...I just hope the pattern looks good in it as it's striping yarn.

Thank you so much SP, you made my day!

In other knitting, the children's socks I've been working on in the previous post - I am afraid that I am going to run out of yarn! I don't have much left and I'm only a few rows into the gusset decreases...I really hope that the yarn will not run out because I have these planned as being my April entry in Socktopia. I'll knit as far as I can on them...then I don't know what to do, other than putting out the word for anyone who might have some of this yarn left over (I wouldn't need a whole lot really, I don't think). I don't think using other yarn with it will work...then it will be TOTALLY mismatched! But like I said, I'll knit as far on it as I can and maybe it will stretch out long enough for me to finish the sock...I hope.

Edited to add: I just came from checking my email a few minutes ago and my lovely SP has added to my spoil! She has purchased and sent me the pattern for Rogue! I've seen this pattern done up on other blogs and thought it looked wonderful. And now the pattern is mine! Thank you so much SP!

SP Strikes Again!

I didn't have time to post this yesterday because I was working on getting my history paper done for today. It's done, thank goodness.
So, as you know from my previous post, I received my first package from my awesome SP10 pal. Yesterday I received another one! Yes, that's right, my awesome SP10 pal sent me another little package:

I got another Canadian post card, this one from Nova Scotia. It's of the Bluenose II, which is a schooner. The Bluenose I was a famous wooden schooner that won some race I believe...we used to have these vignette moment commercials on from time to time (sponsored by Canada Post I think) of different moments in Canadian history (like how we got the Canadian flag, Maurice "Rocket" Richard who was a great hocky player for the Montreal Canadians (I think), how we got the name of the country...things like that). Anyway, one of these little commercials was on the Bluenose and it was shown winning a race from Nova Scotia to somewhere in New England I think...hmm, for taking Maritime History this semester I sure don't know much about this, eh? That's probably because we haven't discussed it.
The other item is a little booklet of six knitting patterns. She (now I'm assuming my SP10 pal is a she because the writing definately looks like a woman would have written, and besides, I don't know if there are any men taking part in this exchange) included a little note saying she loves to collect patterns. I do too...especially socks, scarves, kids or baby items probably because that is what I tend to knit the most of.

I decided to snap the pic in my parents front garden where the crocuses are starting to come out. It wasn't very bright out today so they aren't open much. Anyway, thanks so much secret pal! Another great gift!

Now, the other item(s) I received in the mail today was two skeins of sock yarn that I had ordered a few weeks ago from Mary Maxim. They are the two in the back. The one in the front is of sock yarn I bought when I went to sign up, and put down a deposit to hold my spot, for a 2 hour drop spindle course at an LYS last weekend. The course is April 15 from 2-5pm (it's a Sunday afternoon, so I'll have to hurry home from church and eat so I can get ready. I convinced an old friend from high school to come with me, and she's going to pick me up since I don't have a car). I'm looking forward to that class, and it includes hands on instruction, an instruction book or sorts I think, some batt/roving (whatever it's called), and the spindle. I'll post on that after I take the class and let you know how it all goes. (Look...a bird! Ok, only Kristina will understand what I mean by that)...anyway, major bunny trail there!

Anyway, back to the sock yarn. The two I ordered from Mary Maxim are: On line's Supersocke 100 in the 'tropic' colourway (75% superwash wool, 25% polyamid) and Austermann Step with aloe vera and jojoba oil, in the...umm...ok I don't see a colour name or number, but I think it was just called 'multicolour' or something like that in the catalogue. It has more browns in it than I thought - the pic in the catalogue looked more like it was reddish rather than brown but it has grey and blue in it as well. I'll post better pics of the colours when I get socks made from them.

The skein in the front that I briefly mentioned before I went on the bunny trail, is Trekking XXL, and is colour 283, and has reddish tones being dominant. Again, I'll post better pics when I make socks from it.

This will be the first time using any of these sock yarns, so I'm hoping they all turn out great. I've read of others using these sock yarns and felt jealous, so when I saw some of them...well, I did what any good stashaholic would do. I bought them. And who knows, if I don't like the colours when they are knit up, I just might end up giving the socks as gifts. I will admit though, with all three of them that I stepped out of my "comfort zone" and bought colours I probably normally wouldn't have bought, so yeah for me!

Whew, this turned into a much longer post than I had thought it would, but then I'm not known for being short, sweet, and to the point (right Kristina?). Nope, I'm a detail girl and I can talk your head off! So, I'll stop now before this post ends up being novel length. Happy knitting!

Surprise!

What a great way to start the weekend! This morning when I got up (which was around 10am because I don't have any classes today, and can sleep in), the mailman/woman had already been to the house. I had mail! I love getting mail (as long as it isn't a bill or junk mail)!

The first thing I read was the post card from Toronto, from my SP10 pal! So, I am thinking one of two things: either she lives in or around Toronto, or she has visited there. The package was mailed in Canada (could tell because of the Canadian stamps), so I am going to assume she is a fellow Canadian!
Ok, so after reading the post card (which is awesome), I opened the package. Inside was a pattern from the Lion Brand site's weekly stitches. It is a drop stitch pattern, which looks cool.

Next, in a little sheer pouch (I'm not sure what you'd call the fabric, but I love that little pouch...I wonder where one finds cute little pouches like that!) was a set of 7 stitch markers, each with a letter from my name! How cool is that?! I would never have thought of making stitch markers with someone's name. What a cool idea!

My SP 10 pal seems to be awesome (and I'm sure she is, and doesn't just 'seem' to be that way). I've had a few emails from her that brightened my day, and now this surprise package - what a great way to end the week. I've got a 3000 word term paper to do for Tuesday, but how can I concentrate on that when I have cute new stitch markers waiting to be used, and a cool pattern to try! I'll have to do some knitting when I take breaks from working on the paper this weekend so I can use them. Thanks so much SP10 Pal!! You rock!

Now, not only did I get an awesome package from my SP10 pal, but a couple of weeks ago, Chrissy over at Knittin' Mom had a little contest. She and her family had gone to Japan (way cool!) because her husband was running in a marathon there. While in Japan, she visited some yarn stores (which is what any good knitter would do) and brought back some Japanese yarn.

Anyway, her contest was to just leave a comment saying that you wanted to be put in the draw for a skein of any of the yarn she brought back, and a needle case with three needles (the ones used when you sew up the toes of socks...darning needles or embroidery needles...someone please put me out of my misery and let me know what they're called...my mind is going blank right about now).

So, to make a long story short (if you call this short), she drew my name! I was surprised because I never would have thought I'd get picked because this is the Sock A Month KAL lady, and I think she gets TONS of people visiting her blog (even when it's not home to the KAL).

The yarn is Alpaca, which is what we assume since that is on the tag. I have no idea what the rest says because it's all in Japanese (which one would expect since that is where it is from). I've got a closeup of the yarn so you can see it. It's pretty close to the true colours (at least on my computer), though it might be a smidgen lighter in the picture. The first pic above is probably closest. It's 40g adn 112m, and I'm thinking it might make a nice scarf in the One Skein Wonders book I got not long ago. There is a pattern I had my eye on in there, and this might be the yarn for it.

The yarn content is 80% something (assuming alpaca) and 20% of something else. Ok, I just did a search typing in Alpaca Rimisto (which is on the yarn label, maybe the brand name or something - it's from Puppy Yarns), and this site (or blog) has a sweater done up in this yarn. They give the contents of the yarn as being 80% alpaca and 20% wool, and they used a Japanese size 6 needle, which is recommended on the label, which they have converted as being a 3.9mm needle. I don't know if 3.9mm even exists, but I would think you would just round up to 4.0mm.

The yarn is sooooo soft, and I can't wait to see how it looks all knit up. Of course when I do get it knit up, I'll post a pic of it! Thanks for your contest and in offering your new yarn and the needles as a prize Chrissy!

I'm planning on possibly getting out this afternoon to look for something for my SP10 person to spoil, as well as some yarn to use for my International Scarf Exchange pal's scarf. I've contacted her and she sounds excited to be a part of this (as am I). I just hope that she'll like whatever I make for her - that's the scary part, making a scarf and your pal not liking it. I've yet to hear from whoever has my name, but I'm sure he/she has a reason. If I don't hear from him/her by next week, I'll contact the organizers to see if there is any problem.

Well, must be off to get started on my paper so that I can get closer to completing it, and get a break to use my awesome new stitch markers and yarn! Happy knitting!