Knit, Lola, Knit

The Lunch Date Blouse GIVEAWAY!!!!

2009-01-14T08:35:00.000-07:00

The Lunch Date Blouse GIVEAWAY!!!!

I really hope I win this blouse, but if I don't I've totally been inspired to try something similar on my own! You should really check this out... Plus, could the bird headband be any cuter?! I'm dying!

Nordic Bo Peep and Long Lost Sheep Costume GIVEAWAY!!!!

2008-11-12T08:43:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I'm finally posting again on my craft blog! I've been doing pretty good lately with the regular blog (well, in the last little while anyway), but I've been doing some fun crafting lately (and checking out a lot of fun crafting) that I thought it was time to update this old thing again.

And to start off I'm going to share this amazing blog I stumbled upon a few weeks ago! This woman is amazing! She makes beautiful costumes for her kids and then just gives them away! All you have to do is create a link to her site on your blog and you're entered to win. And the last costume that she's giving away is one of the cutest things I think I've ever seen!! If I won this, I'd probably give it to my sister for her kids, but it would probably be hard not to want to keep it for my own kids some day! How perfect for an Alaskan who's got Norwegian heritage?! And for someone who loves sheep!! Baaaaa!

Check out the link, and her blog. Seriously, it's so amazing!

Nordic Bo Peep and Long Lost Sheep Costume GIVEAWAY!!!!

It's about time!

2006-09-12T21:06:00.000-06:00

Wow, I really am sorry it's been so long since I've actually updated this blog with anything knit or craft related, even when I've said I would. So it's about time I did. It's also about time to start winter knitting. I think one reason I've slacked off in the blogging, is that I don't really enjoy knitting in the summer, there are too many other things that draw my attention out of the house. But guess what? It's getting cold here in Boston, and since I don't have any of my winter clothes out here with me yet (when will I be getting those is the question) I've started realizing how cold I am all the time, and how much I could use a scarf and a hat and gloves! So, what else does this call for but yarn buying?! First off, before I show you what I just got, I'll show you what I actually was able to complete over the summer.

I purchased the awesome new crochet book, "The Happy Hooker" from the Stitch 'N Bitch author. There were so many cute patterns I just couldn't resist. I finished the "Fat Bottom Bag" and am planing to do the little lacy shrug next in this great orange color. Guess what? I've started wearing orange! So not me, but I actually really like it. It's a very fall color.

It looks kind of coral in this photo, but it's more pumpkin orange, in a very good way. The bag is turquoise Lion Brand cotton with bamboo handles. I think it turned out very cute, but I think I want to line it before I used it.

For my next projects I got some beautiful yarn. My first Debbie Bliss Cashmerino! So soft!
The cream and brown yarn are the DB Cashmerino and the dark aqua is cascade 220. The cream is going to be a cute cabled beanie hat of my own design, the blue is going to be this awesome wavy scarf and the brown is going to be "fetching" fingerless gloves, to keep my hands all toasty warm!

I started on the gloves tonight while watching a really funny, if not over the top cheesy movie. They are coming along nicely!

Since I don't have a set of size 6 double pointed needles, I've altered the pattern to do it straight and then seam them up. I would love for them to be seamless, but I don' really want to buy another set of needles right now. I mean, this is the biggest yarn purchase I've made in quite some time! We need to take baby steps! Anyway, that's what I'm up to in the crafting world. I'm planning on breaking out the sewing machine soon for some projects, oh, and I still need to get a good picture of the skirt I made this summer. I really love it.

Craftiness Coming...

2006-07-20T15:09:00.000-06:00

Look for some crafting in this space soon! But for now, check out what else I've been up to. A book over here, and some fun over here! *as a hint, there are multiple projects involving both sewing and crochet!*

Bella Boston

2006-07-06T08:52:00.000-06:00

Ok, so I finally got around to starting a Boston Blog. Hopefully I'll be able to update this with my crafty adventures, but check out all the fun things I'm doing while living in Boston at: Bella Boston!

Bean Town!

2006-04-19T13:27:00.000-06:00

Boston was amazing! And guess what? I have good news already! I'm moving there next month. I got the job at Harvard that I interviewed for last week and I am beyond excited. So many things to do before then, so I'll probably not be posting much before then. I have tons of pictures to show too, but I just got them on the computer last night, so hopefully tomorrow. I'm also working on getting swap packages out the door. The Block Swap is due this Friday (I have just 3 more to make) and the CD swap is this week too. For now, I'll leave this fun little thing I saw on Stephanie's blog, Unwind.

Do a Wikipedia search of your birthdate, minus the year; list three interesting events, three people who were born, and three people who died on that day.

February 24 is the 55th day of the year in the Gregorian Calendar (see below). There are 310 days remaining, 311 in leap years. By Roman custom February 24 is the day added to a leap year, and the occurrence of February 29 is merely a consequence of this. *cool huh?*

Events:
1. 303 – Galerius, Roman Emperor, publishes his edict that begins the persecution of Christians in his portion of the Empire.
2. 1582 - Pope Gregory XIII announces the Gregorian calendar.
3. 2002 – The Winter Olympic Games in Salt Lake City, Utah end.

Births:
1. 1103 - Emperor Toba of Japan
2. 1955 – Steve Jobs, American computer pioneer *I love my Mac!*
3. 1966 – Billy Zane, American Actor

Deaths:
1. 616 – King Ethelbert of Kent
2. 1685 – Charles Howard, 1st Earl of Carlisle, English Politician and Military Leader
3. 1810 – Henry Cavendish, English Scientist

Kinda fun huh? Ok, pictures tomorrow I promise. Oh yeah, and the socks I was meaning to knit on my trip? Didn't really happen. I ripped and restarted, but didn't touch them for the rest of the trip becuase of this book, which I really enjoyed!

M.I.A.

2006-04-12T12:53:00.000-06:00

Wow, I have been missing for some time, but I have excuses. Well, not knitting excuses, but busy life excuses. That'll have to sufice. I've been getting ready to go to Boston, which I'm so excited for it's consumed everything else, even crafting really. Well, not really since I've been working on book stuff, but there hasn't been much knitting or sewing. But guess what?! I'm going to take some knitting on the plane with me! Wow! I know! I think the socks that I started back in December are the perfect plane project, and since I have layovers too, I'm excited to see what I can do. I'll probably be frogging what I've done so far since I think they look waaaay too big, so hopefully I can find a nice and simple pattern to use in my pattern stash.

Hey, anyone know of any good knitting stores in Boston? Of course I'll be checking this store out: Paper Source! I'm excited!

Oh, and guess what? It's finally spring here and all the beautiful trees are in bloom! It's my favorite time of year and I have no pictures to show, that's how busy I've been running around! No time to stop and smell the cherry blossoms! This weekend is going to be great though. And maybe I'll have a finished sock or two to share when I get back!

All sewing, all the time...

2006-03-30T11:30:00.000-07:00

It seems like it's been nothing but sewing around here for a while. This *was* a knitting blog you know! But I guess that's what happens when you get a new machine and join a bunch of sew-alongs and then your wrists starts hurting anytime you pick up the needles. So sorry if you were looking for something knitting related. It's not here now... I am kind of sad about that, because I really wanted to finish Clapotis before it becomes too warm to wear it here, but it's not looking good.
So, I did some sewing last night, imagine that! I started working on the blocks for the "BlockSwap" and got six done.

The ones on the bottom were done first, and I like them ok, but the ones on the top kind of just came out of nowhere! I hadn't even sketched ideas for those! This one's my favorite:
Well, I have four or more to do, so we'll see where the machine takes me, but we're getting there! I'm finding that the size 10.5" is a hard one. I'd like to try some different ideas, but the cutting and measuring which would be required is scaring me! I was surprised to see how far my fabric stash is going on this one too, which will be good when I want to put together the other blocks into some kind of a quilt, I'll be able to fill in with some fun stuff!

Oh, by the way, this is my 100th post! How cool is that? The week after my Blogiversary!

Blue and Cream Bag

2006-03-28T10:49:00.000-07:00

Ok, so the new "Sew? I Knit!" project was announced last week and they've decided to make purses/bags. Of course I've made many, of my own design, and I was thinking I would branch out and actually use a pattern. That is until I found that there aren't any patterns out there that I like! So I was sketching out some ideas on Friday night and said what the heck, I'm just going to go for it! And here it is! It turned out just like I wanted it.

I've been taking the bus for the last 6 months and I keep changing bags, they are either too big, too small, not "professional" enough, or not the right color. Basically not perfect. I love bags, and I change them often, but lately I've just wanted something I can use everyday, that will hold my purse contents, iPod, cell phone, PDA, whatever book I'm reading at the time, my camera when I need it, and some lunch! That's a large order, but I didn't want it to be too big. So I started sketching and decided I wanted it to look good too. I'd just got some great fabric at Wal-Mart of all places, for $2 a yard, and I knew it would be great with any coat, especially my jean jacket. I really am so happy with the result, I put a zipper in (my first on a purse) with pockets inside for all my stuff, and it's got a shape I love, with a little pleat on the top. The dimensions are around 14"x10"x3". Not too big and not too small. It's funny, but I used an old belt for the handles. I can wear it over my shoulder, or it still looks good as a "handbag" type as well. I was having issues for a while on what to do for handles, whether to do them out of the same fabric, but when I went looking through my old belts this one was too perfect. After completing everything else on the bag, it just finished it off, so I sewed them on the next morning. (I was amazed that my machine actually sewed through it with relatively little problems!) Ok, enough already, here's another look!

Chic, roomy, with a place for everything! And I've been using it ever since I finished. I've gotten so many compliments too, it really is the perfect bag and I'm so pleased!

1 Year Old

2006-03-24T15:50:00.000-07:00

Wow, I almost forgot that today is my 1 year Blogiversary! I can't believe I've been blogging a whole year. When I stumbled onto the world of craft/knit blogging last year, I was amazed at all the many talented people I found. I started my blog as a place where I could write my ramdom musings and basically keep my family up to date on what I was doing.
I still feel like I'm trying to find my voice in the blog world, but I do it for me. Not becuase I think someone might read it, becuase really, who does other than my Mom? But I'm really grateful for the motivation and drive it's given the crafting I do. I think about it everyday now, and I think it's changed me because of it. I've become more creative and it's influenced my "eye". I see things differently now.
With the start of 2006 I've tried to post more often and sometimes I get down about finding things to show or write about. I'm not witty and funny like so many out there, but I try to make my voice come through. I've done so many great things this last year becuase of blogging. I participated in the Knitting Olympics, which was such a great push for me. I feel a conection to so many others out there, although they may not know it, since I'm more of a lurker than commentor. Anyway, I guess I just want to say I'm really glad I started this thing and I hope that someone can get something out of it. I know I have!
And just becuase I hate posts without pictures here's something I did a while ago that pretty much sums my blog up!

Wives and Fathers, Daughters and Sons

2006-03-24T10:17:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite period movies ever is Elizabeth Gaskells' "Wives and Daughters". It's just a long lovely movie, with beautiful costumes and of course the beautiful face of Roger Hamley... *sigh*. The book is great too, but I love seeing it come to life in such a faithful rendition. I joined a book club recently and this month we're reading "Fathers and Sons" by Ivan Turgenev. The title of course made me imediently thing of Gaskells book. I'm enjoying it imensley so far, the story line is subtly unfolding and sucking me in. That usually doesn't happen with a lot of classics until about 100 pages into it, but I'm only on about page 25 now! Since it's an older book I thought I'd look online for cheap versions first (before running out to Borders and just buying it). I found a free version online, translated from Russian of course, that had entered into the public domain and so an idea struck me! Why not cut and paste the whole thing into Word and print and bind it myself. So I did just that! It's not the most perfect binding job ever, but it works for me!
Yesterday I came home to a package from the Chicago Public Library that I've been waiting for and I'm so excited! I am entering an exhibit they are having later this year to celebrate 5 years of their "One Book, One City" program. They want submissions for the 10 different books they've done over the years so you had to request the one you wanted and guess what? I get to bind "Pride and Prejudice"!! The top 5 books for each title will be exhibited and there will be monetary prizes for the best of each title as well! I'm just so excited that I get to do Jane Austen. I was planning on binding this book anyway so now I have the chance to have it exhibited! They also sent me a reading copy of it, since I was one of the first to get my entry in, and it's a very nice hardbound copy. I'm not sure if I'm going to rebind that, or do my own, it depends on what I decide to do. It's not due until this summer but I've already started planning what I'm going to do. I'll be sure to share my progress as I go.

More Fun...

2006-03-21T13:13:00.000-07:00

Here's a look at the other bracelet I made this weekend. These are the Amy Butler fabrics from my quilt and pillow. I love the pink button I used on this one. I'm wearing it today too! These little things are going to make such great "last minute" gifts! So quick and easy to make, plus the high "cute factor". At least on my scale!

What with the Easter holiday fast approaching and all the "new-born" chicks and bunnies running around the grocery stores, I'm always reminded of this fun little web site: Peep Research. Be sure to check out the Medical Miracle: Quintuplets Separated! I always get a laugh out of those. It makes me as happy as actually eating the cute little things, which I happen to be doing at this very moment.

Sign Me Up!

2006-03-21T10:39:00.000-07:00

Well, I find I've been joining a lot of swaps and "alongs" lately. I used to do a lot more, but I think I got kind of burned out with them after a while, and after having partners flake on me. But I'm feeling the need to give myself some deadlines for my crafting lately. So I signed up for the Music Swap that Lisa has set up. I love new music, and it's fun putting together a mix and sending it out in the world. I have some fun ideas for CD cases that I've been wanting to try out too, so now I have an excuse!

A Little Fun

2006-03-20T10:40:00.000-07:00

This weekend I finally really got down and dirty with my craft room. I cleaned and organized the whole thing, so it's finally a place that's more conducive to creative thinking. I have so much craft *stuff* that it was getting pretty out of hand. But it's all organized and put away now, I even hung some artwork on the walls! Anyway, it inspired me to do a little sewing and knitting and general crafting. The knitting project isn't done yet, but hopefully I'll find some time this week to finish it up. I did finish some cute little bracelets based on this tutorial and I'm pretty happy with how they turned out.

I didn't have a copy of the tutorial with me, I just kind of made it up from the general ideas I remembered. And instead of attaching something to wrap around the button, I used the button hole feature on my sewing machine and made it button up! I even sewed the buttons on with the machine! How handy! I didn't add any other embellishments onto these as I thought the fabrics were enough. I made another batch with left over Amy Butler fabrics later last night, but didn't have a chance to get a good picture so I'll share more later.

I got together with my sister last night for dinner and so "wrapped" one up for her with a little impromptu wrapping job. I just folded a piece of scrapbook cardstock, placed the bracelet inside and sewed it shut on the machine. I think it turned out pretty cute, although she was kind of confused about how to open it! It's just wrapping paper, you're supposed to rip it!

Bridget Goes to Paris

2006-03-16T10:35:00.000-07:00

Bridget the Bunny loves Paris. Here she is admiring "la Tour Eiffel" in Paris. Bridget is a true romantic at heart and loves the atmosphere of the "City of Love". Being the sentimental bunny she is, she enjoys strolling down the boulevards and watching "les Parisiens" from a table at a Cafe, making up stories for the interesting people she sees.

"Bridge", as she's known to her close friends, also likes to make time to stop and smell the roses in the "Jardin des Tuileries". She hopes to buy a beret by the end of her trip.

Here she is admiring the new "stash enhancement" that came in the mail yesterday. It's actually thanks to that (and a pattern at Wee Wonderfuls) that Bridget is even here today! Of course, she not quite so cosmopolitain as many other bunnies out there, but she's a small town kind of girl, who's drawn to the idea of sophistication. There may be the chance of love for her in the future, as I have plans for a boy bunny too, but you can't put a time table on love. She may soon be finding a new home with a sweet little one this weekend, but only if her "bunny boy" comes along before then, to go to another "little one".

She was fun to make (although a little tricky at times, especially the bottom) and I think turned out pretty cute. This is my first ever softie and I'm pretty addicted. It was fast and fun! Here's another look at the new stash fabric.

These are my favorites.

Bridget was made from the yellow of this group, and will her new bunny friend be from the blue? You never know!

Goodies

2006-03-14T10:22:00.000-07:00

Look what came in the mail on Monday! My first shipment of fabric that I ordered for the "Block Swap"! It's a little hard to tell what you're going to get from just a picture online, but I'm really pleased with most of these, plus it's always great stash enhancement! These are my favorites so far:

Of course, Amy Butler and Kaffe Fassett designs in there. I think the Mint solid is going to look great with the two on the left as well.

This "Buds and Blossoms" is by Kaufman, which I love with the Nova solids... so perfect.
I can't wait to get going on these blocks, but I think I'll wait to see what the next shipment brings.
I saw a really great idea the other day (can't remember where) about using a fleece blanket tacked up to the wall as a design board, which I can't wait to try out! It's going to be really fun experimenting with lost of different colors, patterns and shapes. And it'd be so much easier if they were hanging where I could see them!
Oh yeah, these fabrics were all purchased from FabricDepot.com.

Knitting = Pain

2006-03-08T10:01:00.000-07:00

I haven't been knitting very much at all lately, but my right wrist started really hurting last night, so I decided not to pick up the needles, but do some sewing instead. Maybe my "knitting muscles" are just out of shape from the Olympics, I'm not sure, but I knew "working through the pain" wasn't going to help last night. I've been planning and drawing what I want to do for my quilting, and thinking about the block-swap, so I figured I experiment a bit with the machine.

I did a bit of machine embroidery first, which was fun. I'm not super good right now, but a couple things turned out well, so I'm excited to try some more. After that I moved onto practicing quilting with the walking foot and by the end of the night I had this:

You might be able to see little dots where I marked with disappearing ink my stitching lines. I used invisible thread, and I like the look of it, but I'm thinking I might even like to try some white, or off white, for the quilt itself. My original plan before last night was to do a plain brown fabric on the back, with pink thread, so it showed up more and created a nice design, and with invisible thread on top so that it wasn't too busy with the patterns. But now I might do a neutral thread on top and keep the pink on brown for the underside. I guess I'll just have to keep thinking about it some more. For now, I'm pleased with my results for the pillow, and it's motivated me to keep going! Hopefully my wrist will let me get back to some knitting soon too, I have to finish Clapotis!!

Book Meme

2006-03-07T16:10:00.000-07:00

I got this from fellow "Sew-Along-er" Jenni and thought I'd give it a go!

1) Name five of your favourite books. Pride & Prejudice, The House of Mirth, The Marble Faun, The Betsy-Tacy Series, The Harry Potter Series (I can't pick just one!)
2) What was the last book you bought? The Chronicles of Narnia
3) What was the last book you finished? from The Chronicles of Narnia: The Horse and His Boy
4) List five books that have been particularly meaningful to you (in no particular order). The House of Mirth, The Marble Faun, Cheaper By The Dozen (as a child), Girl of the Limberlost, Lord of Rings Trilogy (because of memories of reading it while on study abroad in London).
5) Name three books you've been dying to read but just haven't gotten around to it? Vanity Fair, Mill on the Floss, Woman in White, The River Why, The Virgin Blue (ok, more than 3 but there's a huge list!)
I am tagging all who read this!

Sew Much Fun!

2006-03-06T11:02:00.000-07:00

I finished my skirt this Sat. for the "Sew? I Knit!" sew-along, and I'm really pleased with how it turned out! This is a bad self portrait, but I had to hurry and take it on my way out the door. (Please ignore all the junk in the background.) It took me about 4 hours in total, so not too bad.

Project Specs
Pattern: Simplicity 5503, size 14 so it would sit lower on my waist.
Materials: Light Medium Weight Denim, Cotton Thread, 7" zipper (lapped zipper), hook & eye
Notes: I used the blind hem function on my machine for the first time and am so excited to have this feature! I didn't want an obvious hem line on it, plus I didn't have a lot of extra to turn up since I have a super high waist and wanted it to be below my knees still. The blind hem function was easy to use and worked well. I just hope it will be strong enough for the heaviness of the fabric. I don't think it would hold up in washing very well. I washed the fabric before cutting to compensate for shrinkage, but since I will probably only wear this once a month, unless I spill something I don't think I'll need to wash it very much at all. The zipper was a little tricky to install, and I wish I would have done an invisible zipper, but I got it in and it looks good, all on the first try.
I like the fit of the skirt and might try it again in a lighter weight cotton for summer. It's full but not too full.

They were having a fabric sale at my Wal-Mart this Sat. so I added to the stash. There are a couple more skirts in my future now, a brown corduroy and some great large prints. I'm thinking a simple a-line or pencil skirt with the corduroy and pleats with the prints.

Also, I got into the Block-Swap and so I'll be working on that this month, and I have a goal to finish quilting "Charm School". After looking through the quilt book, I've been playing around sketching what designs I want to do for the top. I think it'd be fun to use a colored thread on the back and invisible thread on the top. I'm going to play around and see what works best.

Unfogging the Future (and my randomness)

2006-03-02T10:55:00.000-07:00

No, this isn't Madame Trelawney's Divination Classroom, but thanks to Crazy Aunt Purl's post yesterday on March's Hor-O-Scopes, I now know how to proced through the month of March:

PISCES (Feb. 19 - March 20)
While we're on the dance metaphors, I noticed we had a little internal hokey-pokey in Pisces this month. Ya'll are playing mental and emotional hopscotch: One foot left, one foot right, cross your fingers and hope everything works out. But why? Why are you doing this? Sing it with me: It's your birthday! It's your birthday! Go Pisces! Go Pisces! You have to take the lead this month, both pragmatically and romantically. I can't imagine you stalking your goals zealously, but I can envision you with treats in your pocket to attract some puppy love. I don't mind if you use stealthy and secretive ways to get what you want, as long as you finally start closing in on the prize. Life is short, nights are long, take a chance. Put your right foot in and shake it all around, that's what it's all about.

Thanks, I think I'll do just that! Funny how that relates dirrectly to what I was just thinking and feeling. I've been feeling more introspective lately, and this weekend I took a personality test that interestingly was spot on. It was a Meyer-Brigg's Type Test and I was dubbed an ENFJ, a "Teacher" or "Giver". Very interesting. It's fun reading something by someone who doesn't know you at all, let alone know of your existence, and having it be a perfect match, and after just a short little test (well if about 75 short questions is short). I'm interested in finding out more now. I think it's made me more aware of how my personality affects my interaction with others and the decisions I make everyday. I think self-awareness is important and I need to make an effort in pursuing it more.

Other Randomness:

This is a picture I took using the Macros button on my camera of the beautiful glass vase and flower my sister gave me for my birthday. It's actually a set and it matches my room perfectly.

I just found out about this great quilt block swap today. Hopefully I'll be able to join. I think it sounds like such a fun idea. Not only will we be helping make a quilt (or multiple quilts) for charity, but we'll also get 9 blocks from different people too, so we can create our own! And the colors are so pretty too! I'm excited to try out some of my new ideas from the last post.

I'll leave you with a fun little meme that Bronxie is passing on to anyone with an iPod:
Open up your MP 3 player, set it to “shuffle”/random play, and list the first 10 songs that come up. No matter what they are. Ready?

I Woke Up In A Car - Something Corporate
Meet You There - Simple Plan
Cure for the Itch - Linkin Park
Distance - Evan & Jaron
This Will Be My Year - Semisonic
Simonize - Pete Yorn
Dry Country Girl - Rascal Flats
I Want to Save You - Something Corporate (LOVE this one!)
3 AM - Matchbox Twenty
Backyard - Guster

Well, there you have it! I just added a bunch of music (around 700 songs) to my iPod this week, so there's some new and old stuff on there. I used to be able to fit everything on my iTunes on my iPod, but now I have to be picky... I'm up to around 1,700 songs on iTunes and I think I can fit about 900-950 on my iPod. I'll also pass this on to anyone with an iPod!

Inspiration

2006-03-01T10:52:00.000-07:00

Wow. That's all I have to say about my new quilting book, which came in the mail on Monday. I spent last night going through the first half of the book, which covers every kind of quilt you could think of. These heirloom quilts are just too gorgeous! Here are some of my favorites:

When I first turned the page and saw this quilt I literatlly exclaimed out loud! The optical illusion it creats is just amazing!

The pastels and curved lines of this one really caught my eye. The way the colors are aranged created fun intersecting lines too.

The dots and waves on these two quilts make a big impact as well. The colors are so simple, but they are just gorgeous and fun at the same time.

I'm kind of partial to this purple Hawaiian quilt just becuase of the colors, but the forms and movement of the quilt is just beautiful too. So modern, and yet there were made in the early 20th century!

Another Hawaiian quilt, although this is the most contemporary of any of these quilts, it was made in 80's but I love the color and the modern graphics.

Also impressive were the Thousand Piece quilts, made up of thousands of tiny squares and shapes! These women were amazing! To think that most of these were hand quilted too. I can't wait to try some of these ideas out, if I could ever make something half this impressive, I'd be happy.

My Gold Medal

2006-02-28T14:50:00.000-07:00

Wow, just look at that shiny Gold Medal! I'm so proud! I had so much fun participating in the Knitting Olympics. I really pushed myself, not only did I complete my very first sweater, I designed it and did it all in 16 days! It was a learning experience and a lesson in perseverance. It feels good to accomplish a goal you set for yourself. So thanks to Stephanie, the Yarn Harlot, for her inspirational idea, and for all the competitors, for the support of Team Alaska, and to my parents and non-knitter friends, who kept asking about my progress. The encouragement I got from so many different people was amazing, and I'm sure it's what helped me keep going when my hands started cramping! Ok, that sounds like a corny "acceptance speech", but I really am grateful, and just had a blast.

Now to keep up the knitting momentum. I started a fun seed stitch hat on Sunday after completing my sweater, I really liked it, but couldn't get the decreases to work, so I frogged it and will maybe make another attempt when I can work out the kinks. I have a lot of unfinished projects on the sidebar over there. I need to get back to work on those. Also, my sewing and quilting books came in the mail yesterday. I'm going to have to finish up my quilt and get cracking on the skirt for the Sew-Along. So lots to keep me busy.

Photo Finish!

2006-02-27T11:47:00.000-07:00

I finished my Olympic Knitting with a couple hours to spare last night, but for a while there it was looking close! So without further ado, here she is:

Pattern: My own
Yarn: Red Heart Super Saver, only 1 and a half skiens!
Needles: US 8
Notes: Ribbing was done on same size needles because I couldn't find my smaller ones and didn't want to loose time going to get some. I think it's worked out, but it would look more polished with smaller gauge for the ribbing.
I'm pretty happy with how it turned out, I like it better with a collared shirt underneath because the back of the collar sticks up a bit. For my first sweater I think it's a success!

Next up: My skirt for the "Sew? I Knit!" Sew-along and finishing the Phildar Sweater!

Twenty-Six (26)

2006-02-24T10:35:00.000-07:00

Well, today is my twenty-sixth birthday. I can't believe I'm getting so old. Ok, I know it's not really that old, but I thoroughly enjoyed being 24 and would like to stay that way, thanks very much. As you can see, I've been in denial for a year now, and it just keeps coming. In honor of the occasion, I used TypoGenerator.net to create this collage. It's a fun little tool to play around with and that's what birthday's are for, right? Hopefully there will be lots of playing this weekend. I plan on going to dinner and concert with a big group of friends tonight, then tomorrow maybe some family fun or dancing, and on Sunday we're having a little Alaskan get-together. I'm really excited for Monday, I get to go see Low in concert. My friend is a huge fan and so I've just been introduced to them, but they are really good. I can't wait.

Last night I finished the bottom of the sweater and started the first sleeve. I'm almost done with it so I'm very confident I'll be able to finish the entire thing even before Sunday! I've even been weaving in my ends as I go along. You know, it's funny but I love weaving in ends! I even enjoy seaming sometimes, too bad there's none to really do on this sweater, but there are ends to weave! It's just fun to be able to make them disappear into the sweater. Yes, I'm weird. If all goes well, meaning I can find the time between all the playing to squeeze in a sleeve and a half, I'll have a new sweater to wear on Sunday!

And just for fun:

Your Birthdate: February 24

You understand people well and are a natural born therapist.
A peacemaker, people always seem to get along when you are around.
You tend to be a father or mother figure to friends, even to those older than you.
You enjoy your role, and you find that you are close to many people.

Your strength: Your devotion

Your weakness: Reliance on others for happiness

Your power color: Lilac

Your power symbol: Heart

Your power month: June

What Does Your Birth Date Mean?

The Gold is in reach

2006-02-21T10:38:00.000-07:00

So I've made some progress on the body of the sweater. Wow, just plain knitting takes forever! It's hard to tell how much you've done. I have just two more inches until I can start the ribbing. I think I'm going to do about 3 inches of ribbing for a wider waist band. So I believe I'm a little past half done, which is good because the clock is ticking - literally - there's a countdown clock going on over at the Yarn Harlot that makes me nervous every time I look at it. But I think I'm going to make it! I think I'm going to be forced to buy a pair of size 7's or 6's though, I thought I had some, but after searching and searching they are no where to be found. They must have been in my imagination. But I'm not too happy with the neckband ribbing so I'm going to try a smaller needle size for the bottom ribbing, see how it goes and re-knit the neck band if needed.

I finally used a gift certificate to Overstock.com I got for Christmas. I ordered some sewing books. I debated whether to get knitting or sewing books, or even a magazine subscription. In the end decided to go with what looks like a really great sewing book, "The Complete Book of Sewing" and a quilting book, "The Ultimate Quilting Book". The sewing book looks great because it has photos of so many different techniques, plus a lot of the reviews said it was a really great book for both experienced and non-experienced sewers. I think it will be a great reference. I'm excited about the quilt book because half of the book is dedicated to the history of quilts with all the different types. I'm hoping I'll be able to get a lot of inspiration from it as well as some help with the different techniques. It also has full size stitch patterns, which is what I've especially been looking for so I can decide what exactly to use on my "Charm School" quilt. Now comes the fun part of waiting for Mr. Mailman

My Creative Family Tree

2006-02-20T15:21:00.000-07:00

I come from some pretty creative stock. I don't get it just from my Mom. I have one grandfather who was an art major in college, became a carpenter, and now, in his free time, makes violins. My other grandfather is also an artist who paints in oils and watercolors and creates stunning stained glass pieces. Both my grandmothers were experienced seamstresses and dabbled in needle crafts as well. One was and still is an excellent knitter, who created gorgeous aran sweaters and suits and even argyle socks.

But going farther back, is Danquart Anthon Weggeland, my third-great-grandfather, who was the first of my family to come to America from Norway. He was a painter and studied in Denmark where he joined the LDS church. He later came to Utah across the plains with the pioneers, and we've mostly stayed in this area since. He is called "The Father of Utah Art" and was very influential to many of the early artists who emerged in Utah. A more in depth bio can be found here and here.

This weekend I was able to see a great exhibit at the Utah Museum of Fine Art called "Revisiting Utah's Past" (link to article), which was showing three of his paintings. I haven't seen everything he's painted, there's no compiled list as of yet, but I keep my eyes and ears open and in the last year have been able to see eight more of his paintings I'd never seen before, making the total I've seen around 12 or 13, one which hangs in our own home. I'm still amazed every time I stand in front of one of his paintings, admiring the skill, the brushstrokes, and just marveling that someone who's blood I share created it. Admiring a work of art is one thing, but admiring a work of art which you're conected to is something else. Especially when you see it hanging in a museum setting. Maybe people who are artists get this same feeling when their own work is displayed (or something like it) but it's strange. I hope to continue to learn about Dan Weggeland and his life, maybe I can be the one to help pull all the pieces together, wether works of art or details of his life.

Title: "Bishop Sam Bennion Farm, Taylorsville" - 1879
Media: Oil On Canvas, Size: 21" x 31 1/8"

Show 'n Tell

2006-02-16T11:23:00.000-07:00

It's Progress Picture Time:
I know progress pictures aren't the most interesting thing ever, but I wanted to show what I was able to finish yesterday on the Hipster sweater. I knit the neck band! It's almost more of a square shape than a scoop, but I like it. The only thing I don't like is how the cast off edge looks, I think it looks sloppy and thick, but for now it's the best I could do. I might do a little more research, or if anyone knows of a way that looks nice, let me know! I forgot to take a picture of it before I put it back on the needles, maybe soon I'll show you what it looks like on.

It snowed about a foot last night and it's supposed to keep snowing for the next 5 days. I'm really hoping we're not in for something like just happened to the East Coast! You know who needes the snow? Torino! Send snow to them! Those poor skiers, having to compete in such bad conditions. I guess it just means more bus knitting time for me!

Lingering Signs

2006-02-15T10:42:00.000-07:00

It doesn't seem like it's been 4 years since the Olympics were here in Salt Lake City. There are still lingering signs of the games and the impact they had on the city. This structure is just a block away from my work. I've passed it almost everyday for the past two years, but now it's suddenly bringing memories back. I still can't believe I actually got to be a part of the Olympics, to witness the competition, see a medals ceremony, even just be in the atmosphere. It's amazing! I've been keeping a close tab on them this year, and it's been even more fun to feel like I'm a part of them with the Knitting Olympics.

The sweater is coming along. I'm still pretty confident I'll be able to finish it, I just need to keep pushing myself. I've already separated the sleeves from the body and once it has more to it, I'll take a progress shot. I think in a little bit I'm going to knit on the neck band, just to make sure I like how it looks before getting too far to frog. So maybe tonight I'll get to start on that, but I have some book stuff I need to focus on first.

I'm also still sick, which isn't adding to the fun. Trying to knit while hacking up a lung doesn't work too well. My friend who's a dentist (so I'm not sure there's a lot to trust there) thinks I have walking pneumonia. I've put off going to the doctor because I hate doctors plus I really don't think they'd be able to do much for me without it costing an arm and a leg... But I may cave in soon since I've had it for over a week now. For now, I'm hoping sleep and fluids will help!

Happy Heart Day!

2006-02-14T10:15:00.000-07:00

"Take This and Break It"
Letterpress Pressure Print,
2005, edition of 22

This is a print I made last year in my letterpress class. The "(Break It)" is in silver ink, although it's hard to tell in this picture. I'm not normally this casual with my own heart...

Valentine's Day has always been one of my favorite holidays, probably becuase my Mom loves it. She collects hearts and we used to hunt for heart shaped rocks for her. She's got a big collection. I got a wonderful box from her yesterday, full of Valentine goodies. Personally, I think any holiday who's official food is chocolate is O.K. by me!

Knit, Lola, Knit!

2006-02-13T10:35:00.000-07:00

This is a knitting bag I made this weekend. The emroidery design is from an Aunt Martha's iron on transfer called, French Poodle. I think it's perfect for chez Knit, Lola, Knit.

The bag is white canvas and the lining is a printed knit that reminds me of the Paris Metro.

For the handles I sewed two pieces of grosgrain ribbon together. The pattern is my own based loosely on the Jordy bag on Craftster. I'm very happy with the results! It's now carying around my Olympic knitting for me, which is progressing very well.

Cinnamon Toast Crunch

2006-02-12T11:05:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite breakfast/snack foods. It's soft and crunchy in one delicious bite.

Dirrections:
*Turn oven on to High Broil setting.
*In a small bowl mix 3 tbls butter, 3 tbls sugar and cinnamon to taste together until blended well.

*Spread on slice of bread.

*Place on cookie sheet and broil for 2 min. until bubbling or until desired brown-ness is achieved.
*Let cool for a minute.
Enjoy!

Needed Distractions

2006-02-10T10:36:00.000-07:00

Last night I just couldn't take the anticipation of casting on my Hipster sweater so in an effort to distract myself, I went through my stash of fabric and patterns to pick out what I want to do for the Sew? I Knit! sew-along. I've narrowed it down to two patterns and will probably do both at some point anyway so it doesn't really matter which I do first. So my choices are Simplicity 5503 in dark med. weight denim (one of the bottom views):

or New Look 6149 in a light weight khaki twill:

I'm excited about both, but I'll probably end up doing the denim one because I'm not sure I have *quite* enough fabric for the New Look one. I can't remember what pattern I had in mind when I bought the light khaki fabric.

I also started working on a future knitting bag that I can't wait to finish. For now it's going to be a secret, but I'll tell you it involves embroidery and my blog! I think I'm going to finish that today at lunch and start on the sweater tonight while watching the opening ceremonies. I was going to start the sweater at lunch, but that's still an hour earlier than the "2pm your time" thing Stephanie put up on her blog. Plus, as much as people might think the opposite, I really hate starting a project without *trying* to finish the one I'm currently working on. But after tonight it's nothing but Sweater knitting until the 26th! Wish me luck!

Look who I found!

2006-02-09T11:22:00.000-07:00

I'm joining Team Alaska for the Knitting Olympics! I know, I'm not in Alaska anymore, but as they say "you can take the girl out of Alaska but you can't take Alaska out of the girl", right? Well it's something like that. Besides, no one's started Team Utah. I don't think people in Utah even know about the Knitting Olympics, other than the people I've told and they just look at me weird. It's ok, I'm used to it. I thought about joining Team Knitting in Public too, because I'll be doing a lot of that, but Alaska has my allegiance!

In other randomness, I think I've got my pattern all planned out. I'm a little worried about the increases for the scoop neck, but I guess I'll just have to do it and see how it looks. I think I'm going to call this my Red Hot Hipster Sweater. It's red, hopefully it'll be hott and it's going to be a hipster/tunic length, so there you go. Oh, goodness, I hope I'm not setting myself up for disaster! I'm getting nervous!

Also, in anticipation for V-Day next week (no, not that V-Day, Valentines...) Martha Stewart of course always has the cutest ideas. How easy and sweet are these?

Now, if only I had the time, or someone to make them for! I certainly have all the supplies, so maybe I'll find the time. Who wouldn't love one?

Training and Prep

2006-02-08T11:37:00.000-07:00

The Olympic training and preparations have started! Wanna see?:

Here is my gauge swatch for the sweater I'll be doing. Specs: I'm going cheap here and using 100% acrylic Red Heart, but I have no money to be spending on expensive yarn, however much I want it, so I'm hoping it will soften up with washing. I'll be sending this swatch through the wash tonight so I'll have to report back the results. It's a deep red color, pretty close to the picture. Needles: size US 8 for body and US 6 or 7 for ribbing (probably 7 because it's already really tight with the 8's but my gauge is spot on).

Ok, I'm starting to stress out. Not only is this *hopefully* going to be my first completed sweater, but it's also my first time designing a garment. I have some things to help me, but since I only have 16 days, I'm trying to really plan it out in advance. I really want to start knitting already. The suspense if it's all going to work out is killing me!

Here's a sketch of what I'm thinking so far. I've been doodling and figuring on a bunch of different scraps of paper, but this gives an idea of the overall look I'm going for.

I might be re-thinking the sleeves. Since we're quickly moving into spring I'm probably going to make them just above the elbow. But I want this sweater to fit like some of my favorite shirts, fitted in the bust, then straight from there down to the hip so it's looser around the tummy area. It's going to have a very low scoop neck and I hope it will look cute over a collared shirt. I'm planning on top-down raglan but wondered if it's easier to do a scoop neck on a raglan from the bottom up? Anyone know?

I worked all the needle issues out, so if I'm not quite finished with Clappy before Fri. it's not the end of the world, but she's coming along, growing at a steady rate.

In other news, I got sick over the weekend and am now battling a cold. Hopefully it won't interrupt the knitting. Wish me luck! I think I'm going to be in for one heck of a ride!

Playing Catch-Up

2006-02-02T13:27:00.000-07:00

I've been working on Clapotis whenever I get a chance over the last few days, mostly on the bus and at lunch, when I have large blocks of uninterupted time. It's coming along and I just joined my second ball of yarn! I wish I were a faster knitter sometimes, then I might be able to actually finish a project at some point. But I'm rededicating myself to finishing this because I'm determined to get some wear out of it before winter is over, which acording to Mr. Groundhog yesterday, should be another 6 weeks, yikes! Plus, I'll need these needles to do the scoop neck sweater I'm planning for the Knitting Olympics! So that gives me until Feb. 10th! Gah! That seems close. These photos were taken with my camera phone, so I appologize for their overall crappiness (I really did try to fix them...).

Isn't this just the coolest pattern? It's so simple and yet so complex. My needles are driving me insane. They will not un-curl themselves. I've already tried the hot water thing, and I thought if I just kept knitting with them, at some point they would eventually straighten out, but it's not happening. I think they're curling more, of late, if that's even possible. The yarn is a dream to knit with tthough. So soft and squishy! I can tell I'm going to love this scarf.

Since progress shots of my Clappotis aren't all that interesting (espcially since it hasn't grown much since the last shots), I'm going to do a "meme" here. This one's been going around for a while, and a few people said to do it if you want, rather than passing it on specifically.

4 Things Meme:

4 jobs you have had in your life:
* Singer/Entertainer/Manager at a Chocolate Factory. Best. Job. Ever. (read: free chocolate)
* Safety Librarian
* Sales rep at J.Crew
* Book Conservator

4 movies you could watch over & over:
* A&E Pride and Prejudice
* Sense & Sensibility or Emma - really anything Jane Austen...
* National Treasure
* Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe

4 places you have lived:
* Anchorage, Alaska
* London, England
* Kingwood, Texas
* Bakersfield, California

4 TV shows you love to watch:
* The Office
* Scrubs
*24
* Friends

4 places you have been on vacation:
* Orlando, Florida
* Paris, France
* San Phillipe, Mexico
* Las Vegas, Nevada

4 websites you visit daily:
* Bloglines
* Hotmail
* Paper Source (well almost)
* The Book Arts Web

4 of your favorite foods:
* Chocolate, or anything with sugar
* Potatoes
* Halibut
* My Mom's Cheescake

4 places you would rather be right now:
* Boston, MA
* My craft room at home
* London, England
* Home with my Mom

4 bloggers you are tagging:
None because I'm probably the last person in blogland to do it!

Also, I seemed to have missed National De-Lurking week. So, since I LOOOVE comments, I'm asking you all to pretend you didn't miss it either and leave a comment! I'd really love to know who reads my blog! Please say "Hi!", really I don't bite!

Sew Lovely

2006-01-31T11:05:00.000-07:00

I've been sewing for much longer than I've been knitting. My mother is an excellent seamstress and so in High School I got fairly interested in it, and even helped (helped being the key word there) make one of my prom dresses, a beautiful "Audrey Hepburn" type dress, very elegant. After that I think I made some popcorn heat packs and maybe a skirt or something, but with college, things got busy and I lost interest.

After college, I started knitting, and got back into sewing again, but this time it was costumes and dresses. I wouldn't call myself an expert, that's my mom. I usually had her around to help me put in a zipper, or fix a problem seam or what not. When I moved back down to Utah, she gave me her old machine and I started doing more. I tried some bigger projects like a Regency gown, and my pirate costume and I also did some quick and easy projects, like purses, bags and skirts. I learned a lot from the big project (turned disaster) that was the Regency gown, like it's a good idea to make a mock-up before using your nice expensive fabric to make sure it actually fits, but really I think I learned to trust my sewing skills after that project. It had some more advanced techniques. I even got so adventurous that I made a messenger bag from scratch which I'm quite proud of.

Now, with my new machine, I think it's becoming an addiction. Discovering new crafts, like quilting is aiding this addiction, which is understandable since it's just "one more little seam" which suddenly turns into a huge piece of fabric. It's like a bag of chips, you can't eat (or in this case, sew) just one chip (seam).

And so, when I heard about the new Sew-Along for Knitters "Sew? I Knit!" I said, what the heck? I'm a sewer and a knitter!

I do have a lot on my plate already (what with the Knitting Olympics and all), but I have until March 20th! That's plenty of time, for me, the master sewer, to make a skirt! And once again, it may be the kick in the pants I need to actually do it. I've had some suiting and lightweight denim fabric in my stash for forever waiting to be made into a skirt, I even have the patterns already, just waiting for me to cut them out. Or there's also the jersey fabric and asymmetrical hem skirt pattern I was planning (are those still in style?). I have options people, and I'm going to use this as an excuse to exercise some of them! It's going to be fun! It's going to be fast! It's going to be easy. Or at least that's what I say now. I'd like to do something new, like make up my own pattern or something cool like that, but really, who am I kidding? I'll just stick to what I have already and maybe it'll actually get done. Come join if you want!

All this talk of sewing reminds me that I still need to make a Duct Tape Dummy, which of course comes in handy for knitting too. I am going to get around to doing this one of these days. My sister wants one too, so we'll have to have a taping party! Then I can start draping my own patterns! Wouldn't that be exciting.

Well, progress on the quilt: I was able to finish the top last night! I put the large border on and then of course had to make up a little pillow to match with the left over fabric, since it's going to be big enough to put on my bed. I'm already envisioning decor changes for my room. I just love pink, brown and green together! I'll post pictures of them either when my computer stops acting up or when I actually get them put together.

"Charmed, I'm sure"

2006-01-30T11:26:00.000-07:00

I love the weekend. I look forward to it all week long and make plans of how I'll spend it. Sometime it goes according to plan, sometimes it doesn't. This week was a mix of both, but nice none-the-less. I was actually productive! I cleaned and did laundry as well as crafting! Friday night I did something that wasn't on my list and went down to Provo and stayed at my sisters. We had fun watching "The Office" and then talking quilting in the morning.

Saturday morning before heading back up to Salt Lake to be productive, I stopped at the great used book store "Pioneer Book" on Center Street. I was looking for some used copies of the Chronicles of Narnia, but of course with the recent release of the movie, they're all sold out. While browsing I came across a fun book of "Etiquette" from the 1930's. I didn't buy it, but reading through different chapters was enlightening. I now know how to behave at the Opera and when no Chaperone is available. Isn't it funny how society has changed so much just in the last 50 years?

A lunch date with some good girlfriends broke up the afternoon craft time, not unhappily. I was able to finish all the quilt blocks and piece them together. Then it was time for a date, which included some Swing Dancing, which was too much fun! It has been way too long since I've been dancing! I will definitely be going back, especially since I won a free pass in a drawing. I may even enter the "non-professional" competition that will be starting in March, if I can coerce a partner to join me.

Here's a look at the progress on the quilt. I put the first border on last night. I also bound my graph paper journal last night, check it out. Here are my original sketches for the quilt, as you can see, I was a little confused at first, as to how log cabin squares were assembled. But I figured it out, and hopefully the finished dimensions will be around 60"x72" as seen in the second sketch.

Here it is, pieced and sewn, just waiting for the last wide border in the brown stripe.

I really love how it's coming together. Now all I need to do is find some backing material and practice my machine quilting! There was some progress on the hat and a bit on Clapotis, hopefully I'll get some more work done on them tonight while watching 24.

Braided Cable Hat

2006-01-25T14:27:00.000-07:00

Well, I did it. I frogged the Anthorpology Capelet and am going to do a matching hat a scarf instead. Since I was using doubled worsted weight yarn, I think I'll have plenty. No I didn't take a photo before I frogged the capelet, it wasn't that great anyway!

I originally started a 6 stitch right twist cabled hat, but found the pattern I was trying to locate in my big book 'o patterns. It's a 9 stitch braided cable and I love it! I cast on 88 stitches on a size US8 needle and I think it will be a perfect fit.

I'm using the method of cabeling without a cable needle for the first time and I really like it so far. I think my stitches are more even than when I use a cable needle, for whatever reason. This will also be the first time I will make a pompom! Although I reserve the right to veto putting it on if I don't like it. Sometimes I think pompoms on hats look goofy. But the effect in the picture is nice.

Hopefully I'll be able to finish the hat tonight during the knitting group and then start on the Irish Hiking Scarf to go along. I may decide to do a braided cable scarf to match the hat, but we shall see. I'm thinking of adding pompoms across the bottom of the scarf to match, what do you think?

I was also thinking of making a hat to match Clapotis when I finish her, becuase the yarn is just too pretty. I think Cross Hat-ch would look cool in the yarn, but don't think the style of it goes with the scarf. Maybe something like Grumperina's Sarit hat. The curving ribs remind me of the rows in Clappy. I think it'd be super cute!

*Sorry for the crappy photo, I took it with my phone. Even editing the photo didn't help much.*

Good Intentions

2006-01-23T10:45:00.000-07:00

Well, I had dreams of finishing my quilt, of working on Clapotis, of binding a graph paper book for myself, of finishing something this weekend and feeling somewhat productive. None of that happened. I had a productive social life, but not a lot of productivity otherwise.

Around Sunday night (after a nice nap) I started panicking. I wanted to finish something this weekend! Have something to show from my time off from work. I picked up the Anthorpologie capelet I had set down last month. Now there was a reason I stopped working on it, I messed up somehow, and then didn't feel like working on it for a while. But at this point I've forgotten what exactly that mistake was. So instead I just picked up where I left off and worked to the part of splitting the sleeves. I put it all on scrap yarn, and found that although it meets under my arms, the sleeves are going to be *really* "loose". I don't know why, maybe there's something about raglan increases that I forgot while working this patter pretty much from memory/scratch.
This got me discouraged again and now I don't know if I should rip it out and make something else (do I really need another shrug? really?) or just keep going in the hopes that everything will work itself out? It might be cute, but will I wear it? Will it be worth it? The cream yarn I'm using might just be cuter as a hat and scarf set.

I realized this weekend as I was getting ready to go up to Park City to hang out at the Sundance Film Festival*, that I could really use a cute cream hat. And also, that although I've made quite a few hats and scarves, I don't have one matching set! So maybe it's time to rip-it and start a-new. I'm thinking a cute cabled hat (having trouble re-locating the pattern I have at home) with a pom-pom on top, and an Irish Hiking scarf... Or maybe the cabled news-boy hat that I see everyone doing. I've always wanted a news-boy cap.

I did manage to squeeze in a few rows on Clapotis on Friday while watching "Mad Hot Ballroom" (such a great movie!) with some friends, and I also am over half done on a curly crochet scarf in some purple mohair I've had in my small stash for more than two years. It's good to finally have a project to use it in. So there was some productivity this weekend, even if it's impossible to tell with the naked eye.

This week I'm starting a knitting group with a bunch of girls from my church. I'll probably spend more time teaching people how to knit, than actually being able to knit myself, but it's all good. I love teaching people to knit. I taught my roomie last night how to purl and now she's making a hat to match her scarf. This trend is catching on!

*By the way, Park City was fun, although we didn't get a chance to venture into Main Street, we caught a concert at the Park City Resort. G-Love and the Special Sauce were playing. It was freezing, but fun. Hopefully I'll get to catch a movie sometime this week with my friend, and get up to main street next weekend to go "Star Gazing".

"Charm School"

2006-01-18T14:04:00.000-07:00

I've been thinking about what I want to name my quilt, since calling it "my first quilt" is not only getting old, but frankly annoying. The line of fabric is called Charm, so I was thinking something with a play on that would be appropriate. I think "Charm School" fits, since it's my first quilt (ok, enough already!) and I'm learning with it! Plus I think the colors and patterns of it remind me of a true girly-girl, who's trying to act all grown up.

It's just laid out for now. I have 1 1/2 blocks left and then it's just sew them together and add the borders. I'm trying to decide what fabric to use for the back. I think I'll go check out Jo-Ann's too (even though they don't carry Amy Butler), since $9/yard for backing material could get pricey pretty quickly. I also haven't decided on how I want to quilt it. Just in the ditch? Squares on the log cabins? Or follow the pattern on the back material? I'm a big fan of the "random" swirly look, but don't know if I could achieve this on my machine by hand. Squares might just be the best bet, since then I could use the little quilting guide that fits onto my walking foot too.

Battle Wounds

2006-01-17T14:01:00.000-07:00

Well it was a long and crafty weekend here at Chez Lola. Unfortunately I'm going to have some scars from all the quilting fun. 'Tis but a flesh wound. Really, it's already healing. But how I could have been so stupid I don't know. Sometimes you just don't think some of your actions through. It all started as I was preparing to cut my lovely fabric for my first quilt at my sister's house. I brought my rotary cutter and a new blade, since I mostly used it in the past for paper cutting. Changing the blade went just fine, the mistake came when I realized there was some oil of some kind on the blade. I figured it's good for it, but didn't want it to get all over my beautiful new fabric, so I decided to wipe it off... with a paper towel... turning it while wiping, and well I think you can imagine what happened next. A slip of the finger and I've got a v-shaped gash on the tip of my index finger. I'm sure you don't want to know how much my finger can bleed, but really it's a lot. More than you would think a little cut on a little finger can bleed. But I'm ok, I've survived. And now I have battle wounds, that will probably turn into battle scars, and who doesn't want battle scars from crafting? It's like showing your manliness, only in this case, your craftiness. At least I didn't sew through my finger like some poor girls over at Craftster... Now that would hurt!

So I got 8 out of 10 log cabin squares all done this weekend, well Monday really. Only two more to do and then I'm ready to sew them together and into a quilt! I'm loving how it's turned out. Did I mention that it's my own pattern? Finished measurements will probably be around 60x72" including the border. Unfortunately I didn't have time to snap some progress pictures yesterday, since the light was fading by the time I called it quits for the day, but I'll definitely have to post some tomorrow. I'm using the strip method which is making it go so fast! If I wasn't piecing them randomly it would be even faster! In only two hours I got over 75% of the quilt top done! Ok, that's just sewing time, with cutting it takes a bit longer, but I still was very impressed with it. The new machine is working great too! No more fussing with tension and having to pick up scissors and cut the thread every time I stop sewing. It's great.

Stephanie, aka the Yarn Harlot, has officially declared the Knitting Olympics, which will start with the opening ceremonies of the Winter Olympics. I've decided to join, just for the extra push it will give me to get something done and I've decided to complete my first sweater during that time. Do you think I can knit a sweater in 16 days? I'm going to do a top-down raglan with a scoop neck. Either the "Somewhat Cowl" pattern or my own design. I'm going to work really hard on finishing it. Since it's all stockinette I think that will make it easier, especially on circulars, and I'm planning on using worsted weight yarn on size US8's so that too will speed it up. Wish me luck! I'll be swatching soon, which is allowed before hand, as training.

"Cotton" Candy

2006-01-13T13:46:00.000-07:00

I was so excited about the prospects of starting my first quilt that I had to run out last night and get fabric! It was on sale, so even more incentive to go quickly. Everything I got is Amy Butler, but I'm hoping to find some more small print to add in with it, since I'm thinking twin-size and they didn't have many fat quarters cut already, plus they only had one left of the brown/pink dot fabric. I really don't think I'll mind going back to spend another hour browsing for fabric.

Now that I look at the site, most of these are from the "Marmalade" color scheme, and from the new fall pallet. But I think they all mix well. It was a super tough decision trying to pick from all the colors, but I wanted to stick to a simple color scheme, since these are pretty busy prints to begin with. So there are about 4 colors: pink, green, orange/coral and brown.
The next question is what kind of design. There was a pattern done in the fall pallet there that I'm finding I like more and more, so I may have to get that as well. My sister has offered to teach me what she knows and since I just taught her how to knit, I find it's fitting that we're exploring each others "craft".
I also set my machine all up last night for the first time. Well, first I had to clean and organize the craft room. I got about half done but the machine was calling my name. Saying things like, "What if I don't work and you have to take me back? You should just check to make sure." Well instead of even getting to check with a swatch or something, I just set everything up and read through the user manual (a little bed-time reading - am I a dork or what?). Boy am I excited! So many stitches I don't know what I'm going to do with them all! Plus the feet! There are so many! And did you know you can sew a button on with a machine? I think I learned more last night about sewing than I ever have in the years I've been doing it. Of course my past sewing experiences have been following patterns, which, although complicated, were pretty straight forward. There hasn't been a lot of room for experimenting with a machine in the past. Plus, I haven't had all those fancy stitches either. Ooh, my other new favorite thing, the twin needle, so you can do a double stitch in one step! That's going to be great for bags! How come I never knew about these things before? Now I just wish I had Monday off too, so I could spend all day sewing...

Turning Japanese

2006-01-12T14:55:00.000-07:00

I think I'm turning Japanese. Or at least becoming slightly obsessed... Lately I've discovered the wonderful world of Japanese crafting. I've never seen such creativity! Maybe I'm a little slow to hop on the bandwagon, but I'm ready to ride this thing... I'm really intrigued by their felt creations, purses and bags, and crochet patterns.
Some fun and helpful sites for finding Japanese craft books:
EBay: Great store
Crafting Japanese
Buzzville's collection of books (with ISBN #'s)

The one's I really want myself:
ISBN 4277171818

Such beautiful patterns, I've never been more motivated to try crochet...

ISBN 4893968491

Lots of fun and different patterns plus some super cute bags.

ISBN4579109791

So elegant and different! Every bag in here is a masterpiece!

Wow, if I could ever be so crafty...

I keep finding all kinds of things to inspire my creativity, and have a million projects I want to do. On my list of new projects to try out:

Quilting-
I am absolutely in *love* with Amy Butler's new line of quilting fabric, "Charm". All the colors are great, but I'm thinking a quilt in these would be lovely:

And I found a store near me that's having a fat quarter sale! Yay! Her quilt design is great too, I might use that (although not with so many different colors/patterns, but highlighting my favorites) or, do something like Yarnstorm's New York Quilt. I like really simple designs, plus I think it will be better for a beginner like me.

Machine Embroidery-
More inspiration from Yarnstorm. I want to try some new things out with my machine and I just love the whimsical, patch-like-quality of her designs. We'll see if machine embroidery is even possible on my machine, but I might be able to do some line drawings with decorative stitches or something like that if nothing else...

Clapotis is coming along, I have four or five repeats in the main body done, just need to keeping working on it. I didn't work on it last night, but I'll explain why in a bit. I haven't picked the socks back up yet. Those small needles can be intimidating! Sometimes while I was knitting I felt like I was going to break them in half! Bamboo are pretty flexible anyway, but seriously I don't know if I was knitting too tight or what, but they just felt so delicate.

Yesterday I spent almost an hour standing out in the pouring rain (luckily I had an umbrella, but no socks and jeans is a recipe for frozen feet, let me tell you) so I didn't feel like doing much when I finally made it home (after having to walk five blocks in what had turned into falling "slush"). Note to self: next time, plan out late night bus trip home better, or wear some different shoes.

Resolutions

2006-01-09T14:23:00.000-07:00

I'm such a slacker for letting last week slip by, but with no progress (really) on the knitting, I felt I didn't have anything to share.

The reason for no progress last week was because I was busy reading and then watching "Memoirs of a Geisha". I really enjoyed this book, so much in fact that I couldn't put it down! It's all I wanted to do. Seeing the movie on Sat. was a perfect windup to a week of reading. I highly recommend both the book and the movie. I've read some reviews from people that they didn't like the changes from book to movie, but I thought they did an excellent job of capturing the feel of the book. They were both gorgeous and now I find myself very inspired by all Japanese art and culture. Check out this great website for more about Geisha and their culture.

I've made a list of New Year's Resolutions and I'll share a few of them here. I find as I'm nearing turning 26 I've been re-evaluating many of the things in my life, where I'm going and what I'm doing. I'm not going to share some of the deeper things I've resolved to do this year, but here's a few of the things on my list. They include both crafting/knitting related goals and life goals:

1. Start exercising with an aerobics video at home (I love to dance, it's the only way I can enjoy "working out")
2. Branch out in my knitting. Finish my first sweater!
3. Finish projects I start (which means really thinking things through before starting) and perhaps think about designing something myself.
4. Keep craft room clean and organized (it gets messy fast and then affects my desire to be creative).
5. Find new uses for my sewing machine. And use it more (including the stash of fabric). Make a quilt (my first).
6. Keep moving forward in bookbinding. Try new styles, be more creative, enter more exhibits/shows, sell more books, take a workshop at the Book Arts Program, think about applying again for an MFA.
7. Start writing more and keep a journal.
8. Be more productive and self-motivated.
9. And of course, be better about blogging (more than once a week).

Well, that's a few of the things on the list. I think it will keep me busy this year, I just need to try not to tackle them all at once, which is usually what happens, with the result that I never keep any of them. Now it's time to get back to working more on Clapotis and my first socks!

Post-Christmas Report

2005-12-27T18:18:00.000-07:00

I've had a happy holiday so far, I hope everyone else has too! The Christmas Knitting was finished and just in time! I finished the last hat the day of, here's a picture of all but one of the knitted things I made.

A neck warmer for my dad, and hats for all my brothers.

Here they all are modled by moi. The last hat was made with the same yarn in opposite colors from the one with the small ribbed border. I used this tutorial, knit in the round with size US 8 needles and used Lion Brand Worsted weight Wool Ease. The neck gaiter my Dad asked for was knit flat and seamed. I used double stranded TLC Amore on size US 10.5 needles using my own pattern. They all fit and were a big hit with everyone!

For my mother and sisters I made these sweater bags using this tutorial and since they all sew or quilt I also made them each a pin cushion from a tutorial as well.

I made ribbon candy ornaments for my grandparents and all my Aunts, and here's a picture of all the gifts wrapped up, which I think is half the fun of giving gifts. Whew! Lots to share.

And guess what? The best part is what I got for Christmas! A new sewing machine!

I can't wait to use it, I've opened it, but haven't had a chance to try it out. This is something I really needed... I also got an awesome paper cutter from the oh, so sweet, boyfriend, which will be perfect for my bookbinding, and two new watches. And! My sister is super crafty too and made me this *gorgeous* purse! I absolutely love it, and the little bird is sooo me! I've been using it to carry all my stuff around, because it fits the contents of my purse, plus my knitting! Horray!

And now onto the post-holiday knitting! Which of course is for me, since I'm a pretty selfish knitter, except around holidays/birthdays...

I've started two new projects, Clapotis...

I'm already to the straight section. I'm making it a little smaller than the pattern, more of a scarf than a wrap or shawl, since I don't like too bulky, but the yarn is knitting up beautifully.

And here are the socks I've started too. In some great self-striping yarn. I'm worried they are going to be too big, but I'm knitting them for the practice. I can't wait to move onto the magic-loop method. I think I'll like it much more, but I'll try it the "traditional" way first...

Almost there...

2005-12-21T10:32:00.000-07:00

Kind of sad, but this is the extent of the Christmas decorations at my house (other than a Nutcracker on the mantle), but don't feel bad for me, I'll be spending the holidays mostly at my Grandparents house with my parents, so what's the point in decorating? All my roommates are leaving too, so really, no one will be home anyway. But last night I put this little arrangement together. And everything to make it cost under $3! Well, I had the vase already, and I just bought a box of mini glass ornaments for 1.80 and a bag of fake snow for 1.20, and voila! A beautiful, snowy, Christmas arrangement. And it will still be appropriate to leave up until January. I got the idea from something I saw at Pottery Barn. It was hard deciding on colors to use for the ornaments. There were some beautiful purple ones too, but I figured this is definitely more "Christmas-y".

As promised here is a look at the yarn I bought on Sat. *Swoon* I am in love. I just love all the colors, and it's so soft too! I think it will be perfect for Clapotis. And I can't wait to get started, but I think I might need to start the socks first, or I'll keep putting it off. I'm still kind of scared about socks. But Calpotis scares me too, so this will be good. They will both be learning experiences.

I'm a little worried about how bright the yellow is, but we'll see once I swatch it up, it probably won't be as bad as I think, and if it is, I'll find something else to knit in with it. I don't remember exactly what the yarn is, something like Di.ve - Butterfly (don't know colorway), but it's just too pretty! Can you tell I'm excited? I know it's kind of late to jump on the Clapotis bandwagon, but the ones I've seen lately have made me like it even more. I'm still deciding if I want to do the full size version or a smaller scarf size...

If you haven't noticed, check out my progress bar! I'm over half done with the Christmas knitting! 3 down, 2 to go. Actually less than two because I'm almost done with another! Yay! I think everything's going to get done in time. And it's a good thing too because I keep finding new things to make, like these ribbon "candy" ornaments. I have to make some for my mom, she loves ribbon candy, and I have the perfect ribbon left over from this summer!

I also got the two books finished last night, so I'll be putting up pictures tomorrow of that, once they're finished pressing. But what I'm really excited for is wrapping presents! I think this is almost the most fun part of Christmas gift giving! I've bought some awesome wrapping paper, and hopefully they'll look super cute when I'm all done. Of course I'll be posting pictures!

Weekend Knits

2005-12-19T12:02:00.000-07:00

Well, two and a half Christmas knits down, two and a half to go. That's right I'm half-way done! Hooray! The fingers will be flying this week to get everything done in time. But I think I'll be good.

I also have some other Crafty-Christmas projects going on. Here are some button magnets I made this weekend as random gifts for friends (so I can post them). Next time I either need smaller magnets or bigger buttons. Maybe I should make a little button cluster? The buttons just barely cover the top of the magnet and I think they look kind of funny from the side. But they'll look cute on a fridge!

As a hint to what some of the other Crafty-Christmas projects might be, I did a little bit of felting this weekend. Which was an interesting experience, since I've never done such a big project before. Why does some wool shed more than others when being felted? Still I think the experiment was a success and just need to find time to finish it up.

I also worked on this and have two more books to make before Wednesday. Whoo! It's going to be a race to this finish for all of this stuff. But isn't that what this time of year is all about? An excuse to fill the cold winters days with something a little fun and distracting? I'm just hoping I don't get sick. It seems everyone around me is sick, my roommate, my co-workers... Away you germs, back you bugs! I have things to do and projects to finish!

It will be nice to get some rest after this week, and to get back to some regularly scheduled knitting. I've decided I'm going to start Clapotis and even bought yarn on Sat. although, I'm going to see how it knits up a bit, to see if I need to mix anything else in, I'm worried about some colors. I'll have to get a picture of the yarn, it's just too pretty. On top of Clappy, I'm going to try my hand at knitting some socks, finishing Tendances and the Winter Capelet (while it's still winter would be nice), and maybe even starting the Somewhat Cowl. This list is ever growing and changing, but I'm excited to see where the new year will take me in my knitting adventures.

One guess...

2005-12-13T11:52:00.000-07:00

I'll give you one guess about what this is going to be...

Nope, sorry I'm not telling, you'll just have to wait and see until after Christmas. Yep, that's right, more secret Christmas knitting (Ok, I guess it's not so secret if I'm broadcasting pictures of it across the internet, but I'm not saying who it's for, so there!). The elves are hard at work. But they still have time to get a little of this done too. One book down 2 to go before Christmas, and I'm about 25% done with the knitting too! 12 more days is plenty of time to get all that done, right? (Did anyone else just break out into "The Tweleve Days of 'Knitting'"??) Oh, no, am stressing self out, MUST. GET. KNITTING!!

Ssshhh!!!!

2005-12-09T11:39:00.000-07:00

Super Secret Christmas Knitting in Progress!

(ok, maybe not all of it is super secret, but I don't want to spoil any surprises since my family usually reads this...)

You might be able to tell what this is:
Please excuse the crappy camera phone shot (did I mention I now have a camera phone?)...
But what it represents is important! My first time knitting in the round with double pointed needles! So far so good. After the holidays I've decided to tackle some socks. They were having a sale on yarn at the craft store the other day (needles too) so I decided to go for it and buy some self-striping sock yarn and size 3 DPN's. Surprisingly I'm excited to get started on them, but I won't let myself until I finish everything else first! Maybe this will be a motivating factor? I'm not sure, but I'm looking forward to it none-the-less.

Also on my after Christmas knitting list is the "Somewhat Cowl". Sooo cute! I have to make this! I'd love to use the yarn called for, an Alpaca/Silk Blend would feel sooo nice, but we'll see what kind of damage the holiday's do first before buying any yarn. Maybe there's a cheaper sub I can find from Knit Picks or something?

Knit? I knit?

2005-12-06T10:18:00.000-07:00

What's knitting, I think I'm starting to forget exactly how to do this thing they call knitting. It seems so long since I've actually done any. I was busy with this last week and then had a wedding to go to all day Saturday. What with Christmas shopping and reading some great books I've been engrossed in I've been slacking in this department. If I want some knitting gifts I'm really going to have to get cracking! Maybe the reason I've laid the needles down this week is because of the frustration the Anthropology shrug is giving me. Somehow I got of on my increases again (you'd think I knew how to do this by now) and had to frog back a couple rows. This took longer than the messed up rows had taken to knit, so I made absolutely no progress during the space of an hour and a half. I think it took it's toll on my knitting confidence. Wendy was just saying that knitting takes courage, and I believe her, let me tell you. I did have the courage to pick up the needles a bit on Sunday and taught myself how to knit the "continental" way. I still throw the yarn for purling (haven't quite mastered that one), but I like how fast continental knitting actually goes. I think I've figured out the secret to those fast knitters who just whip stuff out, like Eunny. Now if I could just make myself find the time, I could have a finished object a week!

Well, since there's no knitting news, I'll share some pictures of the beautiful wedding I attended this weekend. Can you believe the whole thing was planned in just over a month? It was in a beautiful Victorian home, that even had a Cinderella carriage! Very romantic.

A beautiful two-story tree graced the entrance hall.

Walking down the aisle.

Pictures with the Cinderella Carriage. She looked like a Princess too.

A candy bar was at the end of the buffet. Such a good idea!

The Guest Book displayed in the entrance.

The garden outside the house.

There was a statue and a waterfall in the garden as well. This would be beautiful in the summer.

Congratulations to Kirsten and Aaron!

Four Days and no FO's

2005-11-28T11:04:00.000-07:00

What a great holiday weekend! I had four wonderful days off from work, where I did basically nothing, but managed to squeeze quite a bit of knitting in. Not that I have anything to show for it. Only one real finished object and about three new projects started, with of course more in the works.

I spent Thanksgiving in Brigham City, UT with my Grandparents, brothers and sisters, Tandy and a few cousins thrown into the mix. And of course cutie-pie Emi. Check out the *sweet* airborne shot I got of Emi outside.

I made three really good pumpkin pies (if I do say so myself!), one which I'm still finishing off. I love Thanksgiving, the food is always sooo good! And it's a blast to spend time with the fam.

This is an arrangement I bought at our ward Service Auction a week ago. I thought the colors were perfect for this time of year. I really need to take a flower arranging class, I love how "Martha Stewart" this looks!

While at my Grandparents I started the Dayflower Lace Scarf, got through two repeats, lost my place, made some mistakes and so had the first frogging party of the holiday season. Next time I start this I'm going to use some wool from my stash because this will need lots of blocking.

On Friday I did just a little yarn shopping (not at a real yarn store, I don't trust myself) and got yarn to start the Anthropology Winter Capelet thing, and some deep red yarn to make a cardigan or scoop neck sweater out of. So I knit up my gauge swatch for the Winter Shrug (what is it anyway?) and finally cast on for it on Sat. The thing is, I was winging it without the pattern Julsey came up with, so it's going to be a little different. Had to frog it once already (2nd frogging party) because I'd placed my markers all wrong, which unfortunately, I didn't notice at first. Whew, making things up can be so confusing sometimes! So after a bumpy start it's finally progressing smoothly and will hopefully be complete in time for the work Holiday Party on the 8th.

On Sunday I decided that I need some slippers, now! And so since I hadn't started the little slipper pattern for real I decided it would be perfect, but I decided to wing this as well. After some stash digging I found some chunky green T&Q left over from something-or-other and decided that I'd just see what I came up with. Well, it's not quite right, but I finished one (the only thing that got finished this weekend). It's a little too small. I think I need to cast on maybe two stitches more and go a row or two longer. At least for this yarn. I might decide to finish the other one, they'd be very comfy, since it's really chunky yarn, but I might start another pair in a worsted weight yarn, who knows?

No progress on Tendances. Everybody else is stalling until after the holidays too, so I'm not feeling any pressure. Is this good or bad? I'm determined to finish my first sweater though!

So we drew names for Christmas presents and I got my sister-in-law, for whom I just finished a hat. So I'm deciding if I want to knit her something or do something else. Either way, I'm not going to tell. It's gotta be a surprise! But I think I'll be able to get some kind of Christmas knitting in, we'll just have to see what that is. I'm thinking a couple hats, and maybe some fingerless gloves/gauntlets but I'm not saying for who!

I can't wait!

2005-11-18T16:22:00.000-07:00

Tonight is the night! I am so excited to see the new Harry Potter movie, I stayed up last night weaving in ends on my Harry Potter Scarf just so it would be all ready to go. See?

I used Lion Brand Wool Ease in Red and Gold (Buttercup?) double stranded on size US 13's. I did a garter stitch border on the edges to help with rolling (it's not helping, can you tell?) and although it calls for alternate fringe, I was somehow almost out of red, so did just yellow. I haven't counted the stipes yet, so don't know how many there are, but it's actually quite long. When I blocked it, I had to do one end at a time and the begining wouldn't flatten out as well as the end did, even though I tried twice. Oh, well, it still looks ok, and since it's a scarf I will probably only wear twice a year, I'm happy with it.

I finished my sister-in-law's hat and will take a picture of it tonight when I give it to her. We're all going together to the movie, it's going to be so much fun!

Here's some progress shots on my Phildar Tendances sweater:

I also finished this for a friend this week too, so it's been a busy one!

Do you think it's time for some Christmas knitting??

Knitworthy News

2005-11-14T14:15:00.000-07:00

The Harry Potter scarf is finished and will be blocking tonight! I made the pattern up really and just used the first movie as a general reference, which means that it's the big red and gold block stripe. I'm thinking of adding fringe the bottom but can't decide if I should do all yellow, since the first and last block are red, or alternate. I don't think I have enough red though, so we'll see. I can't wait to wear it on Friday night to the movie!

I haven't worked on Tendances at all, since I've been trying to get the scarf and this done this weekend, so maybe this week I'll find some time to devote to it, as well as the hat for my sister-in-law (so I can give it to her on Friday). I also *have* to make this little guy! Too cute! The pattern apparently comes from this book, but I think I'm going to just wing it. I have to have a little white Lola dog, so then I can do some photo ops with her for the blog! You know, "Knit, Lola, Knit!" **Envision here a little white dog with knitting needles in mouth and yarn trailing behind** Too cute!

I blame Jane!

2005-11-09T16:45:00.000-07:00

It feel like it's been a while since posting. Sorry about that. I finally got all the photos I'd wanted up in my last post so check it out.

First general news: I got to go to an advance screening of Pride & Prejudice last night! It was a lot of fun, my old roommie Ahslee came with and I was so worried about not getting tickets and seats and all that I arrived early to wait in line. Well, turns out I was the line, so guess who had first pick of seats! It eventually did sell out and I felt it was worth it to get there early. I'm not going to go into a huge review of it. I'll just say despite the things I hated, I really liked it. It's not as good as the A&E version (who can compare to Coliln Firth?) but the kept all the essential plot elements, and in a two hour movie! I was impressed. That said it did jump around a lot, and if you've never seen or read it before (who could that be?) you might feel a little confused. The costuming was attrocious! The hair was HORRID! And I just can't understand why they made the Bennetts look so shabby, but other than that (oh, and Kiera's pouty mouth) I enjoyed it. It was funny and had beautiful music. So go see, especially if you're a Jane fan, you may not love it, but I felt it was still worth my two hours (and more waiting in line).

In knitting news:
I have about 5 inches on my Phildar sweater, I'll take a photo soon. My guage wasn't working plus I didn't like how tight it knit up, so I'm making some mods. Or maybe just using the pattern loosely... Well either way, it's a little different. I also started a Harry Potter scarf becuase I got tickets for next Friday!!! I can't wait!

More updates to come!

Avast me Hearties, it's Halloween picture time!

2005-11-02T11:15:00.000-07:00

The party was a sucess and Halloween fun was had by all. Here's some photo recaps of the weekend. Unfortunately I didn't think to take pictures of the decorations or the food table, but that's never as much fun to photograph as people right?

Group shot: Elvis (Tandy), Pirate Wench (Carly), Princess Kelly, Miss America (John), Black Widdow (Sue), Hobo (Shannon), Masqcarde Lady (Kaydi), Cowgirl (Krystal), Jazz Player (Brian), in the front: Denver Nuggets Player (Katie), Pirate (Julie).

Where did Elvis pick up this pirate? (Carly and Tandy)

My roommate Brit in another dress I made three years ago, another group shot, Halloween games in action, and the Jazz and Nuggets facing off.

On Monday night we went down to my sister's party in Provo. She made some amazing food and we watched the Simpsons Tree House of Horor. The candy was plentiful and so were the trick-or-treaters. It was a blast!

Here we are with the Nun-Chucks, Christian and Mary, they won their costume contest! Tandy came as a Swiss Backpacker, again with the Pirate Wench.

Emi was supposed to be a Moose, but she didn't like the antlers.

Kirsten & her "dead husband", Aaron, Mary & a pooped Emi (too much Halloween fun),
Emi, looking cute and Derek, Becky and Little Andy

Circular Goodness

2005-10-31T10:21:00.000-07:00

Well, it's finally done! The Craftster Circular shrug is a Finished Object! And I finished it just in time to wear to church, thanks to Daylight Savings! I woke up *late*, or so I thought on Sunday morning, but I had forgotten to turn my clock back so I was actually doing great, so I finished two rows of 2x2 rib and seamed it all up and, Voila! I was good to go! Check it out.

Ok, so it's a little shorter in the chest area than I planned, but it at least can be buttoned! I like how it looks open too. I'm planning on doing another one since it's so great, this time in a smaller gauge with a nice deep red or orange yarn. I'll probably add more of the 2x2 ribbing, maybe about 7 or 8 inches for an extra wide collar.

Here are the specifics of the changes I made:
Yarn: Red Heart Grande in Black
Needles: US 15
Rib: 5.5" of 2x2 ribbing
Body: 18" of 1x1 ribbing (not mock rib)

I added a button to it and even without a buttone hole it works!

Halloween party pictures and updates will be on their way tomorrow. For now I'll say it was a great sucess! Lots of people, all the food got eaten and we partied until about 1am! Kind of hectic trying to get ready for it, but it was worth it becuase it turned out to be a blast!

"Book 'em Dano, I'm 5-0!"

2005-10-25T15:22:00.000-06:00

Heh, 50th post, just couldn't resist a little SNL humor there...

I've been busily crafting away this weekend. And so far there's no end in sight! Well, until next week. My sewing machine decided to die on me Friday night right in the middle of the pirate skirt. See, I had a method to the sewing for Halloween. I decided to work from the bottom up, and the easiest to the most difficult, to kind of get the machine (and me) warmed up. So I started with the underdress, with the ruffle. Easy enough, a few seams and some elastic. Unfortunately I forgot that my machine (which was given to me by my mom for *free* - so I'm very thankful for it, except for the fact that it's very, very, old and hates me) doesn't like to have the tension changed. At all. Because it will never go back to how it was after paying $40 dollars to have it fixed and cleaned up last time. No matter what you do. So I eventually had to give up for a bit, until I got down to my sisters to borrow her machine. Which is heaven itself, and of course I never ever want to give it back to her. So on Sunday the sewing commenced again, this time at a ripping pace. My sister has a Baby Lock and let me tell you, I can't get enough of it. It's computerized, makes inserting a bobbin a dream and has so many features and stitches it's a tragedy that I'm not doing more with it while I have it. This week is *crazy* though, so I'll have to just keep borrowing it from her... or something like that. So the pirate costume is almost complete. Just a little tweaking to do with the vest and maybe a bit with the skirt (hem needs to come up) and I'm good to go!

I also made progress on the Crafster Circular Shrug, and since I was babysitting last night for the cousins, am almost done! Just a couple more inches of 2x2 ribbing to go. I'm hoping I didn't fall prey to the "this-doesn't-really-need -*20*-inches-for-the-body-so-I'll-end-here" thinking that many people have run into and then not been too happy with how short their shrug was, but, hey, I'm sick of it and want to wear it already, so I'm ending, alright? We'll see how that turns out. And if it's not so good, I'll just do another one, in a smaller gauge, and a pretty red color. I'm also thinking it's going to need a lot of ironing or something of the sort to flatten it out. It's pretty stretchy right now.

The Halloween party is coming along! That's why this week is so crazy, I have a million things to do to get ready and I still need to finalize what food I'm going to do. I remembered that my mom always used to make us chili on fritos for the night of Halloween which was yummy, so I thought about maybe doing that and having the small bags of fritos that you just add your chili to and eat right out of! Takes care of the paper bowl thing too! Along with some other little "finger food" (no pun intended) and some dessert I think I'll be good to go. I think we're going to have some games going on in the kitchen like "donut on a string" and bobbing for apples. Then in the front room will be scary movies playing (more old than scary) and downstairs some Halloween dance jams going on. I'll be sure to take pictures. The house is looking spook already with cobwebs, blackened wreath, scary pictures, candles, red and black lights and hopefully some tombstones out front by tonight. Still haven't found time to carve a pumpkin! But will have to since roasted pumpkin seeds are a must!

I'm also preparing for church "Enrichment Night", which is this Thursday also at my house. I'm giving the lesson on "Emergency Preparedness" and might even be teaching the demo on jam making. So it's going to be a fun week!

The "I need" Bandwagon

2005-10-19T11:06:00.000-06:00

I'm Jumping on. Here goes...

Carly needs:
to get a grip on herself and stop acting like a maniac with everyone else.
to quit screwing up her life.
to be locked up and the key thrown away!
a new man.
to be with a goody two shoes like Molly is.
a gal pal like Lucy had.
to look like she could hold her own.
a place to stay.
your help!
a friend.

So apparently there is some Soap Character with my name! How fun. To join the fun, google "(your name) needs" and see all the crazy stuff that comes up.

In knitting/crafting news, made a little progress on the circular shrug and my neckwarmer while babysitting for my cousins. I'm still feeling sick, and will probably need to go to the doctor tonight to get some meds or my lymph nodes are never going to return to their normal size. Tonight, will be making spooky tombstones out of foam for the halloween party. The rest of this week will be devoted to getting my pirate costume finished, carving pumpkins, and cleaning the house. So knitting might be on hold for just a bit. At least until Halloween stuff gets taken care of. Oh, and Julsey and I are going to start working on the Green Phildar Sweater toghether! I can't wait! My first *real* sweater!

What kind of yarn are you?

2005-10-13T11:35:00.000-06:00

You are Mohair.
You are a warm and fuzzy type who works well with
others, doing your share without being too
weighty. You can be stubborn and absolutely
refuse to change your position once it is set,
but that's okay since you are good at covering
up your mistakes.

What kind of yarn are you?
brought to you by Quizilla

Updates

2005-10-13T10:23:00.000-06:00

Ok! Finally as promised, pictures!

First here is the progress on my circular shrug:

Now for the cabled wrist warmers (with an action shot)!

And here's the fabric I'm using for my pirate costume:

I guess it's more of a plum color than purple.

I started cutting it out last night, but then started feeling feverish and had to quit for the night. The glands in my neck have now swollen to golf-ball sized proportions. Fun, fun!

Call me Dirty Mary Read!

2005-10-12T10:59:00.000-06:00

Arrrgh! Ahoy me mateys! In honor of my Halloween costume I took this quiz and determined what my pirate name is.

My pirate name is:

Dirty Mary Read

You're the pirate everyone else wants to throw in the ocean -- not to get rid of you, you understand; just to get rid of the smell. Even through many pirates have a reputation for not being the brightest souls on earth, you defy the sterotypes. You've got taste and education. Arr!

Get your own pirate name from fidius.org.

Here are some more fun pirate links:
Talk like a pirate day
Pirate Images

New and Improved?

2005-10-10T10:35:00.000-06:00

Well, I've officially changed the name of my blog. I wanted something a little more "crafty" and the gals over on Glitter helped me decide. Knit, Lola, Knit is the new name for my blog! Hooray!

I'm halfway through the Craftster Circular Shrug , have started these slippers and have a million other projects going on too. Hopefully this week I'll also get my Halloween costume cut out and started! Oh and I'm planning the big Halloween party we're having. Here are some links to ideas I'm using:

Spider theme
Black Pumpkins
Black Wreath
Pumpkin Cake
Ladies' Fingers
Pumpkin Seeds
Butterbeer - my own secret recipe
More carved Pumpkins (like Victor and Emily from the Corpse Bride)

And check out the awesome candy container my Mom gave me!

It's going to be a Spooktacular Halloween!

What's in a name?

2005-10-06T15:04:00.000-06:00

Welp, I haven't felt in a very bloggy mood lately, so it's not been done in a while. For this I apologize, but in my own defense I've been too busy reading other people's blogs (must update side bar soon with ones I love). Well, that and getting my website up. It's official I've settled on a name! Bella Book Arts is my business' new name. I've stared my website up too, so check out www.bellabookarts.com and tell me what you think. What can I do better? It's still under construction so comments are welcome, but please be nice. I'm learning about html in the process and it's actually pretty interesting! For now, it's just a jumping off point.

Knitting update:
I'm frogging the "Blackberry", it's just too much of a pain, is it the gauge? the cables? I don't know, but it's getting annoying so I'm stopping. In the mean time I'm going to do a circular shrug like this, and I'm still working on the Phildar sweater, my own pattern of course. Haven't cast on yet, but maybe I'll get some time this weekend? I'm also making this hat for my Sister-in-law and have plans to try my hand at these felted purses. So I'll have to post some pictures of the wrist warmers I made last week, they've been really helpful the last few days.

I'm also thinking of re-naming this blog. It started out as just a collection of random thoughts, but lately has been turning into a knitting blog. I'm thinking I might use the Bella Book Arts blog to post book-ish things and this one as my weekly life/knitting updates. But I can't think of a good "crafting" or "knitting" name... Something will come to me soon, so just be aware!

Isn't she just too cute?

2005-09-30T15:48:00.000-06:00

Just had to share this picture of my sister's cute little pup Emi. Like the collar? Her "auntie" made it for her!

This is getting bad...

2005-09-26T11:11:00.000-06:00

My obsession with knitting lately has increased. Maybe it's that I'm finally moving on from rectangular forms or perhaps that I have a craft room now, and more time on my hands (don't ask me how). But this weekend I finished a hat in one night and one wrist warmer the other. Of course I don't have pictures yet, so I'll have to add those later, but for now, here are the patterns I used. I've taken a short break on the Blackberry. It's going pretty fast, but I'm used to super fast projects and have a case of knitting ADD lately. I used the brown chunky Red Heart yarn I originally got for the sweater for the ribbon cloche I gave to my sister for her Birthday. She looks really cute in it!

I'm using my Knit Picks kool-aide dyed wool for these cabled wrist warmers and hopefully will have enough left over to make a matching button neck warmer as well. Today at the bus stop was pretty cold. I'll need these soon.

Update on the Phildar Sweater:
Dang I just wrote this and then it deleted it! Oh well. Basically I've decided to make my own pattern (my first time!) since it's only in French, I have no money to get it right now and I want it (I'll share the pattern if it works out)! So I downloaded a sample of the Knitware program, plugged all my information into it and I think it's going to work! The only thing now is to figure out exactly what kind of a stitch it is. It might be a mesh stitch or a lace ribbing, but since the lace pattern looks to be lined up I might try something like k2, *yo, k2tog* with a kWS over an even number of stitches. I'm working on knitting up a sample right now, so we'll see how that goes. I might have to go back to the library to look up more stitches. Thanks for everybody's comments!

Sweater Obsessed

2005-09-21T09:10:00.000-06:00

Ok, so now that I've finished a sweater (well a mini one) it's all I want to do now! Here's a picture of the finished minisweater from Glampyre. Again it didn't turn out exactly as I was hoping, but I still like it, and I wore it last night to Institute!

So now I've started on the Blackberry. I've frogged at least three times now, but I think I've finally figured out what I'm doing. I changed the yarn I'm using to a worsted weight on size 10.5 US needles because I want it to be more of a snug shrug. I'm doing the size small (which when done with the chunky yarn was HUGE) and I figure if it's a little too small I can block it into a bigger shape or just add more ribbing around the edges, since that's what makes it meet in the front anyway! So here's the progress on that so far, I started with the sleeves this time since I was anxious to do the cables:

I've already got a few projects lined up that I'd love to do, all sweaters of course. The top of the list is this gorgeous open knit scoop neck sweater from Phildar, but the problem is the pattern is in French and mine isn't so great anymore... There are other great patterns in the magazine so I think it might be worth it to buy it if I could decipher how to do it.

It's the one on the left.

I also really want to do this hat and this sweater from Vogue Knitting.

I went to the library yesterday and photocopied a bunch of pages in knitting books of different stitches (who knew there were so many things you could do with k,p, yo, etc.!?) and some patterns. So basically I've been a little obsessed lately, but hey if it keeps me away from the mall I'm all for it!

Bottlecap Books

2005-09-20T09:32:00.000-06:00

Here are photos of the Bottlecap books I made for the final project in my Beginning Letterpress class last semester. It's an edition of 50, so I have about 30 left still, they will be up for sale when I have finished assembling them. I'm really happy with how they turned out.

I am a knitting machine...

2005-09-19T10:23:00.000-06:00

Since I've moved into my new place and gotten a "craft room" I've been one crafty person. The minisweater is off the needles! I'm not 100% happy with it and am still trying to figure out what to wear under it, but I'm glad it's done. It seems to fit a little strangely. The top of the neck is really close and tight, but then the bottom is too loose and gapes in the back. I overlapped the front just a bit to make up for this, but it isn't helping much. The sleves are also quite interesting, maybe my yarn it too thin and it's made it a little too drapey. I finished it before my blind date on Friday night and was going to wear it, but then couldn't figure out what to wear under it. So it's going to be just a bit before I find the right shirt to go under it and can wear it. But maybe sometime this week I'll get some pictures taken.

Blackberry is on the needles, but now I'm thinking of frogging... I have the back done and am going to move onto the sleves next, just for fun. It's going really fast, but it's also getting really thick. This chunky yarn is *really* chunky. It would make a great substitute for a jacket, but I want something soft and moveable, so I might get some thick worsted weight yarn and try that. Or I could do what someone in the KAL did and frog a thrift store sweater. $1.99 for all the yarn for your project is a GREAT deal! Since it's just a brown blob right now I didn't take any pictures, but maybe when I figure out what yarn I want to use I'll do a picture update.

Other crafty plans include cutting out my pirate costume. Horray for Halloween, I'm going to be a purple pirate! I want to have a big Halloween party at my new place this year and am planning on having a rockin' costume. I'm using this Butterick pattern:

I got some really great dark purple fabric for the vest that has gold "embroidery" on it and then some perfectly matching satin for the skirt. I think it will be a fun costume.

I'm also planning on making a duct tape dummy of myself instead of buying an expensive dressform. My sister is going to help tape me up this weekend while her husband is at the football game. 3 hours in a tight duct tape dress is going to be exciting... but it will definitely be worth it since it will help so much in fitting. Maybe I can even fix my Jane Austen dress! I think it will be really helpful to have a dummy of myself. There are some great tutorials on this site, with a few different ways to do it.

Allmost a sweater

2005-09-15T10:54:00.000-06:00

I've almost finished my minisweater from Glampyre. Last night I finished the body and almost finished one sleve. I just have to seam the right sleve and then do the left and I'm done. I misread the dirrections and had to undo a few rows, but it didn't do any harm, I just hate putting stitches back on the needle after frogging. It's a little gape-y in the back like a lot of peoples, but I figure I can just overlap the front a bit with the button and that might make it better. Oh yeah, gotta get a button.

I was planning on starting another One Skien Wonder, this time in yellow, and I'm planning on doing a little bit bigger size this time, but instead I think I'm going to start Blackberry from the new fall Knitty!

This is such a cute sweater/wrap and it will be more appropriate for the winter months we're going into. Just need to find a good substitute yarn and get started! I'm thinking either KnitPicks Sierra or Lion Brand Wool Ease Chunky. Need to go to the LYS and see what looks best. Oh yeah, this will also be my first time doing cables, I'm a little scared, but after reading this great tutorial, I think I can handle it. I'm not going to do the bobbles on the sleeves though, I'm not a "bobble" person. I started a KAL on Craftster if anyone wants to join!

Harry Potter Rocks!

2005-09-12T10:54:00.000-06:00

Well you can almost rock out to it now, thanks to iPod. Oh, how I want this...

How cool would a Hogwarts iPod be?

In other iPod news, they've discontinued the iPod mini (how could you do this to me?) and have relased the new iPod Nano. Looks awesome, scratch that, gorgeous! I'm glad I got a pinkish/purple one while they made them, but tiny and a color screen? How can I resist?!

Katrina Disaster Relief

2005-09-01T11:11:00.000-06:00

The crafters of the web are coming together to raise money to donate to the Red Cross! Your help is needed in this venture by purchasing the items donated to the online craft store Etsy. Please visit the store and help the victims of Katrina.

Crafters United

Insert witty title here...

2005-08-22T16:29:00.000-06:00

So not much new. Went the the ReAL Salt Lake soccer game on Sat. with Lizzie and Michael which was fun, but unfortunately we lost. We hung out all weekend, eating a lot and just having fun with Emi (the puppy). Good times.

I've been working on the Minisweater, which seems to be taking forever. I've tried it on once and it wasn't even close to moving on, but I'm hoping I'll be able to finish it soon. This week is going to be a little crazy though, so we'll see.

Here is the progress as of a few days ago. I don't think it's really changed all that much, just a few more rows of the same old, same old. I can't wait till it's done!

I took some picture of the bottle cap books I finished this weekend too, so I'll have to post them when I upload them. They turned out pretty good and when I went to turn them in there was a workshop going on and one of the guys there wants to buy one from me! How cool, my first sale of a real artist book! I'm so excited! Good thing I did an edition of 50!

Crafty

2005-08-15T11:31:00.000-06:00

Well, this was a fun weekend. I got a new hair cut, and I also finished knitting the One Skien Wonder. Here's a picture of both!

My hair is a lighter blonde (although not as light as I would have liked) and I have bangs!

Here's the back of both too.

The OSW is a little tight, but it's already stretched, so I think I'm good.

I finally got the picture uploaded of the Martha Stewart cake I made last weekend for my Shade Party. I think it turned out really cute! It was very yummy too!

Here's the recipe, but I cheated just a bit. The "flowers" are made from dried pineapple slices. So cute!

Not much new...

2005-08-11T12:17:00.000-06:00

Well, there's nothing really going on right now except that I'm back to a normal schedule and love it. I went and played volleyball last night with a bunch of people up at the church. It was pretty fun but started getting too competitive for my taste. I've been helping my roommate who ruptured her Achilles to get around and helped her put together a rolling computer chair so she can get around the kitchen easier.

I've also been knitting, I'm about to start on the sleeves of the OSW, but I need to get a larger size 8 circular needle. I think I've been using 9 1/2US on the body with Cascade 220. Hopefully I'll be able to finish a sleeve tonight. I'm still not the fastest knitter. Especially because lately my wrists have been bothering me.

Last night I bought the cutest movie! It's an Irish/Scottish movie called "Dear Frankie" about this single Mom that writes letter to her son from his Dad. It was so sweet and just a really good clean film. I'm glad I bought it. I'm going to let Lizanne borrow it since she is the one who reminded me of it...

Oh, I'm also working on a journal for my friend and am going to start something for my other friends wedding. I'm going to start devoting a lot more time to my business. I was thinking it might be a good idea to set up a booth at Bridal Fairs if I can get some examples made up or something. Also I'm thinking of changing the name from Violet Book Bindery, but I don't know to what. I don't know why I'm unhappy with it, but I want something that will appeal to a wide range of people and I'm not sure that what I have now, will.

Well, I guess that's all for today. I'll be sure to update if anything exciting happens to me. The likelihood of that is slim to none and I'm glad for a change.

Time flies where you're.... busy?

2005-08-05T14:46:00.000-06:00

Wow, this week has been going fast, yet slow. I can't believe it was only last week that my internship ended. Sad to think I may never get to go back and work there. Must not think of that. It was a wonderful experience anyway, even if I never do.

This week my Letterpress class ended too. I'm still putting the finishing touches on my final project. They are tiny accordion books inside a bottlecap, I'll post a picture of one when I'm done. I'm pretty happy about how they turned out, they've just taken a lot longer than planned (re-printing entire project is never fun), plus an edition of 50 is no small task. I guess I'll just leave with an update of the projects I've got going on.

Knitting:
*One skein Wonder - almost done with the body and getting ready to do the sleeves.
*Booga Bag - just needs to be felted, but somehow our washer has mysteriously wandered off (is it a bad sign that I didn't know it was broken or gone?) Will have to go to sisters...
*Frogged the Sophie Bag - was looking too big, so unwound and will start over. I think I had increased it but now that I'm starting on the bottom again, I'm not sure... Also not sure if will do it double stranded still.
*Waiting to start the Minisweater from Glampyre. Need to choose yarn, perhaps will use hand dyed.

Sewing:
*Will start mock-up of Regency day-dress. May be making up own pattern (1st time!), but loosely following instructions from Sensebility.com. I already have some great fabric from Jo-Ann's that looks period appropriate. Also coveting Sari material from IndiaSelections.com. They'd make such a beautiful dress.
*More purses are always planned. Lizanne wants a doggy carrier.

BookBinding:
*Making a journal for old roommate, Christi.

On top of everything I'm having a Shade Clothing party tomorrow. Gotta get cleaning!

All the World is a Stage

2005-08-02T11:41:00.000-06:00

Well, we're back from our trip to Cedar City Utah for the Shakespearean Festival. It was such a wonderful trip! Four plays in two days is just too much fun! Here are some highlights from the trip.

On the Backstage Tour we got a look into the Wig and Makeup room.

The Costume Shop had a mock-up of one of the dresses from "Love's Labor's Lost".

"This is the Adams Memorial Theater, an outdoor theater like the Globe. We saw "Love's Labor's Lost" here. It had beautiful scenery. "Dr. Faustus" was also on this stage, but unfortunately we missed it.

Mom posing outside the Randall Jones Theatre with a statue from "King Lear".

The theater had a beautiful round atrium that mimicked the Globe and Adams theater.

We spotted the two actors, Brian Vaughn and David Ivers, who were in "Stones in His Pockets" having an interview. We also saw them in "Camelot" (Vaughn as Arthur) and "Love's Labor's Lost" (Ivers as Berone).

I think my favorite play was "A Mid Summer Night's Dream", but of course I know that the best, since I played Starveling the Tailor, but they did it in a "Regency-esque" setting, and it was just hilarious! I think Mom enjoyed this the most too.

We also had fun laughing about how much the actors spit while delivering their monologues. Is there at term for this? Mom would REALLY like to know...

On our way back on Sunday, before taking Mom to the airport, we stopped and had dinner with Lizzie, Stuart and Emi (the puppy). This was the first time Mom has seen her Grand, ummm, dog. We had fun playing with her.

Here's mom, holding a sleeping Emi in her new be-jeweled collar. She was going crazy earlier. Stuart had her racing around the living room after her blue bear.

Stuart, Mom, Emi and Lizanne on the couch for a group photo before we had to leave.

The "Girls" posing for a picture. I look horrible, but then I'd just driven 5 hours in a hot car!

Thanks Mom. I had such a fun weekend and I hope you did too!!

Knitting out my ears

2005-07-21T17:34:00.000-06:00

So I have like three or four project going on right now. But a couple a nearing completion! Yay! Mom's Booga Bag is finally off the needles (except for the icord, just about another trillion inches to go...) and will hopefully be completed before she comes down next weekend. My bag has been worked on as well. I'm hoping to get them both done before the trip. I also put the One Skien Wonder on the needles, although I'm not sure if it's going to turn out. Might try another color of yarn. I'm doing it in the pink/yellow/cream yarn that I dyed with Kool-Aide. I think I have like 10 rows right now. Also I'm doing another iPod cozy, this one felted. So, yeah, 4 projects. I wish I could knit and read at the same time, movies are my friends for now!

Speaking of our trip next weekend, here's what we'll be seeing! Yay! I'm so excited!

Utah Shakepsearean Festival

Love's Labours Lost
A Mid Summer's Night Dream
Romeo and Juliet &
Camelot

What a great line up. I'll for sure be taking tons of pictures!

Reactions

2005-07-19T15:50:00.000-06:00

Well, lets just say my reactions to Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince have fluctuated almost hourly since completing in on Sunday night. (I'll try not to put in any spoilers) I must admit, I am not afraid, I bawled like a baby at the end. I couldn't help it, it was just so... SAD! My roommates were giving me strange looks, asking if I needed a hug, and telling me that I should stop reading for the night. But with only one chapter to go, I had to finish, even if I did have to get up every two minutes to get more Kleenex so I could actually read the words on the page. It was kind of more of a half sob, half hysterical laugh, once I realized what I was actually crying about... a book, containing FICTIONAL characters. But I was still upset. Still am to a certain extent, but I've thought things through and I'm going to give JKR the benefit of the doubt and believe that she actually knows what she's doing. I know I'm not alone in my reactions (perhaps more so in my eye's reactions) because my roommate was at first extreemly disapointed as well. I loved the whole book, up until the last two or three chapters. I thought it was very well written, probably one of the best of the series so far. I loved the progression the characters made and I wasn't all that sad there was a great lack of the adventure in the middle. My beef at the end had more to do with who died rather than how it was written or what happened exactly. So I guess I'm going to have to go back and start reading it again, looking meticulously for clues to figure out exactly what happened, why and what's going to happen next. Knowing JKR, there's bound to be more twists and turns ahead for Harry and Hogwarts.

I've been reading a lot of the interviews JKR has given lately (many can be found on links from MuggleNet) and I've come to a better understanding of what she did and why, and I admire the fact that she's said she doesn't care if people like the books or not, she's writing them for herself, not the fans. I think she'll remain true to her story and to Harry. I have faith yet, that everything will turn out (mostly) for the better.

I want to know what others thought once they're done, so leave comments or let me know!

P.S. I had a blast on Friday night, despite the depression that set in on Sunday... Michael and his friend Sabrina came down from Rexburg for a concert on Sat. and we all went to the big Potter Party at the Library and then to B&N to get the book at midnight. We drank butterbeer, saw a GREAT costume contest, got to meet a real owl, got our picture with Harry, and just had a blast in general. There was so much going on and so many people out, it was just great to participate in the excited spirit of the night. It was a great weekend, no matter the tears!

Horray for Harry!

2005-07-15T15:26:00.000-06:00

Tonight is the night... Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince is finally here! I'm going to stay up all night reading. My roommates think I'm crazy, I made two t-shirts yesterday so I can wear one tonight. I got it from this great site: Sherbet-Lemon. Check it out, they have some fun wallpapers and sutff, all Harry of course! :) This is the one I'm wearing, I ironed it onto an apple green tee:

Front and Back images

My swap partner got the bag and bracelet I sent last week. I think it turned out pretty good and she said she really likes it.

I also bought the pattern for the One Skein Wonder today.

Couldn't resist as I love shrugs and have a stash I need to clean out! I've been working on Mom's Booga bag but it's so boring just knitting in the round eternally! I think I need this as a quick fix to get me back on track. I only have a few inches to go on the bag though and then the icord:

I also finally got a pic of the finished Paris Loop:

Wow, lots of pics and lots of updates. I guess that's all that's new for now. Oh, Mickie is coming down for the weekend so it'll be cool to hang out with him. Well, I'm off to prepare for the party tonight! By the next time I post I'll hopefully be done reading!

I'm an Aunt! (Well... kind of)

2005-07-12T11:31:00.000-06:00

Lizzie and Stuart got a new little puppy yesterday and I got to go visit. She's an adorable 6 week old minature pincher, and is just cute as a button! We had fun playing with her, feeding her and watching her sleep. She also really likes feet. I hear that she kept her new Mom up all night though with her crying or playing, depending on where she was... :) Now they just need a name!

She likes Stuarts feet.

She crawled under the couch. We think she was feeling a little intimidated by her new surroundings.

She took a little nap under the safety of the couch.

Later Lizzie made her some puppy formula which she gobbled up greedily.

Another nap, with her new toy (she was dragging it around earlier) she'd had an exciting day.

Such a cutie pie! I can't wait to go visit again!

Also I took this Quiz about Harry Potter and got 100% (I'll admit it was rather easy). See how you do!

Only 4 days left until I get to read "Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince"! I can't wait!

Let the Countdown begin!

2005-07-08T14:07:00.000-06:00

YAY!!! Only 7 days left until the release of "Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince". Are you excited? Becuase I know I am!

There are tons of cool sites devoted to Harry Potter and his world but a few I enjoy are here:
MuggleNet
Scholastic
Warner Brothers
Potter Parties
Alivans Wand Shop
JK Rowling's Official Site

The Potter Parties site give info about all the public parties that will be going on the night of the relase. I will be attending the Downtown Public Library's party. They have some really cool stuff planned. I haven't pre-ordered my copy becuase I plan on buying it at Wal-Mart like last time. But who knows, I may cave in eventually. I'll also probably hit more than one party, but what I'd love it to host my own. Check out the site of this girl's Potter Party in 2002! She went all out! Very impressive.

Well, I hope you'll all be planning something fun for this great event. I can't wait!

London Transportation Attacks

2005-07-07T14:05:00.000-06:00

Logging onto the internet and hearing the news of the 4 bombings which occured this morning in London, I was stunned. I still think of London as a second home and I'm so so sad at what they are going through right now. I can't believe something like 9/11 has happened in England. When is the terror going to end? Why do people feel it's right to cause such destruction? And toward innocent people...

All I can say is I'm grateful for the British men and women who are fighting in Iraq along side our troops. I'm sorry that their involvement has caused more lives to be lost, but I know that what we are all working toward is important and good. I can't understand how people can do this. I just don't understand. My heart and paryers go out to all of London and England. I'm sorry for it's losses and pray for an end to this terror.

To read more go to MSNBC.com.

ETA: Continuing to read what others are feeling about this I found the comments on this blog very close to my own feelings.

It's been a while

2005-06-30T11:41:00.000-06:00

So I've been bad lately about updating this but I've been super busy, so I'm sure you'll fogive me! My little brother and my Dad were in town this last week on their way up to Rexburg ID to start Michael in school. We did a lot of fun things, including catching a Stingers Baseball game, thanks to Grandpa W.

Stuart, Lizzie and

Michael watching the game.

Here's a great action shot my camera got. Unfotunately I think he was striking out there. I wasn't paying too much attention...
It was a really nice night and we had fun. We went to Sonic after and got some treats.

Here's a not so good picture of the last project I finished for Letterpress.

It's called "The Great Ship Ostero". My teacher liked it. It was fun becuase I had my co-worker Russ help me write it. We just made up a bunch of words to tell a story to go along with the picture. The class is going great, I'm almost done with my thrid project and I have a very clear idea of what I'm doing for my final but it's going to be a secret. :)

This is what I walk past everyday on my way to work. It's a gorgeous day today and it's supposed to be 92 tomorrow!! Wow, I haven't been in that kind of heat for a long time.

"Wicked" Mail!

2005-06-14T16:05:00.000-06:00

Well, guess what? I was expecting a package yesterday when I got home but was flabbergasted when I found not just one, not two, nor three or four but FIVE, count 'em 5 packages all for me yesterday!!!! Yippeee! You cannot imagine the joy. And guess what was inside? Wonderful things! My new digital camera, I haven't told many people but I ordered a digi from Walmart.com and it's great. I got a really good deal and even got a free 256MB memory card, so of course I had to open that first and get it charging because guess what else came? My Pringles Can Swap! Wowy wow is all I can say because my swap partner (Leblanfo on Glitter) was amazing and fulfilled all my wildest dreams about swapping! Here's what she packed into an oatmeal can (same dimensions, she did the math):

It included this amazing iPod cozy:

It's got cute little beaded flowers on the front and even has a button hole on the bottom so I can plug in my earphones. There were also tons of other cool things like fruit leather, ribbon, beautiful beaded stitch markers, paper paint, library check out cards, playing cards, gel pens and embroidery floss. It was so fun to keep pulling out one amazing thing after the next. I just hope my swap package lives up worthiness wise to this one! Wow.

The other packages weren't quite as exciting but one was the free memory card and the other two were Betsy-Tacy books to complete my collection. I got them used online for like $.20 cents each and I'm going to bind the whole collection in matching cloth! What a wonderful day!

Lately all I've been listening to is the CD from the new musical "Wicked". It is amazing and I want to see this sooo bad.

It's the story of Oz before Dorothy, kind of a look at how the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good Witch became who they are. I really recommend it to everyone I know. It's just great. It's going on tour too, so check out their site. It's also based on a book called Wicked: The Life and Times of The Wicked Witch of the West. I hope to read it soon since it's hard to tell exactly what's going on with the story when you only get snippits of it through the songs. Even then, it's still worth listening to!

1000 Reasons to Love my iPod!

2005-06-07T20:57:00.000-06:00

Yay! I've finally reached 1,000 songs on my iPod! 1,010 to be exact and in honor of the occasion, here is a random list of 11 songs from my iPod. Enjoy!

Look What You've Done - Jet
Wow - Snow Patrol
She's So High - Tal Bachman
Sweetest Thing - U2
New Boy - The Connells
Long Day - Matchbox Twenty
Adrienne - The Calling
The Anthem - Good Charlotte
Reasons for Living - Duncan Shiek
You Found Me - Kelly Clarkson
Anything - Our Lady Peace

High 5!

2005-06-02T11:23:00.000-06:00

Our first assignment for letterpress was due last night and we had our first critique. I'm really happy becuase I got the highest score and also the only 5 of the night! It's weird because I was really worried going into the critique that mine wasn't that good. I wasn't happy with how light the ink came out and a couple of other things, but since I'm non-credit I didn't really care that much. But then when they finally got to mine, my teacher said that with the comercially made paper we used, she couldn't have done better herself! Wow. I'm just really happy. Even though the ink came out light, it was still even and filled in with the right ammount of pressure. Maybe I have a natural talent for letterpress. I'm still intimidated about some stuff, but I'm getting more comfortable. It doesn't help that I'm a perfectionist. But I'm getting excited about the next two projects. I just need to print the second and for the third we have to design a broadside. I'm not sure what I'm going to do since it has to incorporate text and images, but I'm thinking about making a zinc plate of what I want my logo for Violet Book Bindery to look like and then creating a kind of advertisement for my business. For this first assignment we weren't graded on any artisitc elements, just our printing technique, so the next ones are going to stress me out, since everyone else in my class is an art major. These people have some really cool ideas. I'll definately be learning from this whole experience.
Tonight I'm attending a book lecture at the U. Hedi Kyle is lecturing and did a workshop yesterday. It's supposed to be a really good lecture, so I'll probably be sharing what I learn!
I'll put a picture or scan of my competed assignment up tonight when I get home so you can see how my project turned out.

Photos

2005-06-01T15:10:00.000-06:00

For your shopping convenience.

2005-05-26T16:38:00.000-06:00

I just discovered a great new store online. Ok it's probably not new, but to me it is, which is the most important thing. It's got gorgeous paper, fun kits and bookbinding supplies. I mean, what's not to love? Paper Source is my new obsession and it's obvious by the size of the order I placed today. But if you love bright colors, clean lines and pretty papers you'll be like me and will immediately add Paper Source to your favorites list asap! They also have super cheap, yet very pretty bookbinding cloth. Can't wait to try out Papaya on a book! I also ordered this great accordian book kit.

I love the color of the paper, plus I won't have to do any board cutting!

They also sell cute things like this flower bracelet kit.

I figure I can make one without the kit, but it's a super cute idea! I think this site is going to be great for getting my bookbinding business going.

"To do, or not to do..."

2005-05-24T14:11:00.000-06:00

With the 3 day Memorial Weekend coming up, I've been trying to figure out what to do. This is the first holiday since Christmas our firm has given us, so I would really like to take advantage and get away for a bit. But now I don't know what to do. For a while I had plans in the works for either Vegas or Alaska, but both fell through. I think I'll still get to Vegas somtime this summer (I've only been once!) but I still haven't figured out what to do this weekend. I have roommates going to Jackson Hole or Moab, but I'm just not in a camping mood. I guess if I do stay home, I'll at least be able to do a lot of reading and knitting... Woohoo. Maybe I'll visit the Springville Museum of Art and check out Dan Weggeland's paintings there. There's also a new exhibit at the Utah Museum of Art about women's fashion, shounds interesting. I should probably hang here anyway since I have printing to do... Oh well... I'll get a fun vacation sometime I guess.

Also, how cute is Jessica Simpson's new hair cut?

This is exactly how I want my hair to look! I'm going back to blonde baby, just wait!

Paris In the Springtime

2005-05-20T13:33:00.000-06:00

Paris Loop is off the needles! Just in time for the most gorgeous weather. It's high 70's today and beautiful. I'm wearing my Loop and loving it. Although it's 100% wool it's not scratchy at all and it basically looks like a half poncho. I also got my swap CD's off in the mail today! Can't wait to see what other people are listening to, but if you were wondering what's on my iPod here is the playlist I created:

1. All the Way Up to Heaven - Guster
2. Closet - Pete Yorn
3. Clint Eastwood - Gorillaz
4. Telescope Eyes - Eisley
5. You're On My Mind - Kalai
6. Careful - Guster
7. Grazed Knees - Snow Patrol
8. Eleanor - Low Millions
9. An Ode to Maybe - Third Eye Blind
10. Someone to Die For - Jimmy Gnecco
11. Commerce, TX - Ben Kweller
12. Life - Coolhand
13. Self Portrait - Stephanie Smith
14. Wonderful - Andy Stochansky
15. Canned Heat - Jamiroquai
16. Look What You've Done - Jet
17. 24 - Jem
18. Same - Snow Patrol

I like this mix a lot and it's all I've been listening to for the last day or two, so I hope my swap mates like it too! Tomorrow I'll be making some postcards for the post card swap I'm in too. That is if I'm not coming down with a bad bug, as I'm feeling kind of under the weather today.

Well, pretty soon I'll be off watching "Star Wars" in my new Paris Loop. I'll let you know what I think of the last-ever Jedi adventure!

How Time Flies...

2005-05-19T15:02:00.000-06:00

This week has gone by so fast, I think it's going to be a repeating pattern. I had my first letterpress class last night and I'm really excited but really intimidated. Everyone in the class is an art major and we're expected to spend 12 hours a week in the studio. Don't know how I'm going to fit that into my already packed schedule, but I guess since I'm non-credit, it'll be ok if I can't. I just want my work to be as good as everyone else's. Anyway, enough of my insecurities, I think it's going to be a great learning experience. And who knows, someday it could come in really handy, like if I wanted to print my own wedding invitations someday. Not saying that day is anywhere in the near future, but it's always something to think about!

I'm almost done with the Paris Loop, just one or two more inches to go! I can't wait. Maybe I can get it done tonight and then I can wear it tomorrow for the "Star Wars" viewing I get to go to!! Yippee, I can't wait to see this movie! It's the end of an era! Tomorrow is going to be a great day because not only do I get to see "Star Wars" I get to get out of work early to do it! Our office rented a theater for us to go see it, so I'll be leaving at 2:30 from work to get there! How nice is that? Wait it gets better since we get to wear... JEANS! :) This never happens at our law office, so I'm taking full advantage!

Kool-Aide Rocks!

2005-05-16T16:35:00.000-06:00

So I had some craft-tacular fun with Kool-Aide this weekend. I finally got around to dying the yarn I bought and it was so much fun! It was a lot easier than I thought it would be, and I really like how my yarn turned out. I experimented with a lot of flavors. The first skien I did was lemonade and pink lemonade, so it made this really pretty yellow/pink pastel yarn. Next I did 4 reds together and just kind of mixed 'em around all over the yarn for a more mottled look, then I did grape and black cherry which didn't turn out as dark as I would have liked (maybe not enought kool-aide to yarn ratio?) but is still a pretty purple/red color. Then my other favorite was blue varigated with new cool apple, blue raspberry lemonade and changin' cherry. It's a really cool teal/light green/bluish varigated. I can't wait to knit 'em up and see how they look! I think I'll use them make some purses and felt them.

I also am almost finished with the Paris Loop. I decided I needed to get this finished before I could work on the booga and sophie bags, the yarn was calling to me... so hopefully I can finish it tonight.

And now for....
Quick movie review time!!!
I saw "Fever Pitch" this weekend, starring Drew Barrymore and Jimmy Falon. I can't decide if it was better or worse than I was expecting. It was cute and all, but there were some parts that seemed to drag. But all in all, I'd give it 3 stars. Maybe more of a dollar movie for most people, but fun nonetheless.

I Knit!

2005-05-11T14:35:00.000-06:00

So I finally had some time last night to knit and I got the Paris loop on the needles. I only have about an inch and a half, but I can tell I'm going to LOVE it! I ended up getting some gorgeous varigated yarn in sherbert colors and it's going to be so summery! Can't wait. I have also had time to work on the felted purse for my mom. I hope it will be big enough, becuase I've read that the item will shrink 30%, but I'm already making it bigger than it calls for, so I think it'll be good.

I also finally got some pictures of the Springback taken! They aren't the best, but when I get it back after the exhibit, I'll take some better ones. I'm really pleased with how it turned out. It toally springs open. When I turned it in for the exhibit, they were all really impressed that I tackled such an advanced binding and that it works! They want me to join the Guild of Bookworkers so I'm going to really consider it.

I also have plans to make a purse like this one. Crafster and Glitter are my two new favorite sites. I've signed up to do a CD and a postcard swap and can't wait since they'll be my first. I've already started puting the play list together for the CD swap. I'll post it here after I send it! :)

Printing my own books

2005-05-06T12:14:00.000-06:00

Soon I'll be able to print my own books. I'm signing up for a letterpress class and I'm so excited to learn to set type and print something! Don't know what I'll print, since I hate to write, but I think I'll be able to figure something out.

Speaking of books with content, I discovered the coolest site! The Gutenberg Project has tons of books online and many are already set up in folio format so you can just print them and bind them together and "Voila!" you have a book! :) I'm doing Pride & Prejdice as my first book and of course will have to make a complete set, but there are tons of different ones to choose from. Oh man, this is going to be good. I think I've found something to keep me busy for a very long time.

In other book related news, I finished my Springback Book and am submiting it for exhibit at the University. I'm also submiting an accordian book I did called "She Walks in Beauty" by Byron. This will be the first time I'll have exhibited my works. I took pictures of the Springback today so I'll post them when I get them. It's so cool because it's springs open pushing the gutter up. Anyway, hard to explain and I couldn't have finished this book without the help of my boss, but it's turned out so cool! :) With all the books I've been making lately, I haven't had much time for knitting, but I'll be able to get back into it soon.

Boston Baby...

2005-05-02T13:42:00.000-06:00

So just surfing through some blogs I came across someone who had a link to this test. I was just talking with someone about a website similar to this {findyourspot.com, see below} the other day and was excited to try it out and look what happened!! Boston is my number one city!! That may have something to do with the fact that I said I most wanted to live in the NorthEast. But hey, I was being honest in my answers, so I'm thinking the test doesn't lie. I really want to move to Boston, but I've never even been there. Kinda crazy I know, but I'm hoping to get there this summer for a bookbinding workshop at North Bennet. We'll see if that happens.
Anyway, kind of some interesting results here:

>

American Cities That Best Fit You:

60% Boston

60% Chicago

55% New York City

55% Philadelphia

50% Miami

You should take the test too!

Which American Cities Best Fit You?

My results on findyourspot.com weren't as exciting. I got a lot of southern cities and Boston wasn't on the list at all, but Long Island was number one. Check this list out:

Long Island, NY
Charelston, SC
Jacksonville, FL
Miami, FL
New York, NY
Seattle, WA
West Palm Beach, FL
Orlando, FL
Houston, TX
Philedelphia, PA
Manhattan, NY
Norfolk, VA
Tampa, FL
Chesapeake - Virginia Beach, VA
Carlisle, PA
Memphis, TN
Austin, TX
San Antonio, TX
Atlanta, GA
Charlotte, NC
Fort Worth, TX
Pitsburg, PA
Phoenix, AZ
Dallas, TX

I don't ever want to live in Texas again and I can't believe I only have two cities from the NorthWest, or even the West for that matter. I could maybe see living in Virginia, but not Florida and not Tennesse. I just thought it was a really weird list for me. I guess it will be interesting to see where I actually do end up living throughout my life. I'd like to live in a lot of different places, but who knows what life will bring! I'm hoping Boston! :)

Thank Goodness It's Friday

2005-04-29T18:07:00.000-06:00

Wow, it's been a crazy week, with everything I've had going on, family visiting, teaching a friend to make books. I haven't had much time to knit and I won't until sometime next week. I'm working on a couple of books right now so that I can enter them in a student exhibit here. This would be the first exhibit my work has been in if I get in. I think I will since I'm an intermediate student and the others submiting are mostly begining. But you never know. There were some pretty good people in my class this last semester. I'm also working on secret projects that I can't share until they're done (ie for a certain holiday coming up). :)

I'm also thinking about taking a letterpress class this summer in the evenings. I think it's a great skill to have along with bookbinding, for obvious reasons. But I think it would also be tons of fun. I love learning the historical way of doing things, which may be one reason I was so interested in bookbinding to begin with.

So tomorrow will be a busy one, but I'm also hoping to catch up on my sleep since I've been lacking in that department for the last couple of weeks. Plus I seem to be getting sick, which is not good, so I'm going to try to nip it in the bud.

I have quite a few projects planned for the near future, and one that I'm really excited about. I ordered some undyed yarn online (super cheap) and I'm going to hand dye it with kool-aid like I've seen on tons of sites lately. I'll probably use the knitty recipe. I haven't decided what colors, but I think I'm going to try a few different shades since I ordered 4 skiens. I can't wait. Also, I have my gardening which has been on the back burner for a while. My sweet peas I started indoors a couple weeks ago are like 4 or 5 inches tall already and have tons of leaves, so I need to harden them off soon so I can transplant them outside. I only planted the seeds outside on Monday so they haven't come up yet, I plan on seeing which way grows more/better/taller, seed started indoors or out, although I'm already off to a bad start for my little experiment since I didn't plant them at the same time! Ah, if only I had enough hours in the day!

All in Working Order

2005-04-25T10:38:00.000-06:00

I updated the links on the side bar so all of them should work now. I guess the Dan Weggeland link was having problems. You should also check out the Weggeland Family page since they put new pictures up! :)

This was a very full weekend. I've been having fun with my family in town. I'm going to make my mom a felted bag as well but I think I'm going to use this pattern for hers since she needs something a little bigger (I'll probably alter the pattern just a bit). We had fun going to a yarn store together. She got a beautiful red/salmon color of Cascade 220. I think it's going to look beautiful!

This weekend I also went to the Third Eye Blind concert on Saturday. It was a blast. They are one of my favorite bands and I've seen them 3 times now!

We also started planning a trip to the Shakespearean Festival in Cedar City Utah, which is an amazing experience. I went for the first time last summer with my grandmother and we had such a fun time. I'm excited for this summer for a couple of reasons, first because they are doing my three all time favorite plays and second because my mother and I are going to go together! The plays we are going to see are "A Mid Summer Night's Dream", "Romeo & Juliet", "Love's Labours Lost" and Camelot. They usually do two non-Shakespeare plays each summer and I'm excited to see Camelot since I've never seen a production of this before. I seriously can't wait! We are going to have sooo much fun!

I Love a New Project

2005-04-21T14:24:00.000-06:00

I love starting new knitting projects, which is probably one reason I usually have about 4 going at once, I can't wait to finish one to start another. I found some super cute free patterns online that I'm going to start ASAP. I've been looking for a while for a cute felted bag pattern and I just so happened to find one that I LOVE. I took it into the great little knitting shop up the street for me (so bad, I know) to see what fun yarn I could use and they actually had a sample of the purse all knit up. It looked a little smaller than it does here in the picture so I'm going to double the strand and use a little bit bigger needle, if that's possible. So we'll have to see how that turns out. I got two great shades of purple to varigate it. Purple is my favorite color and although I already have two purple purses, I don't have a knit one! :)

The other pattern I'm really excited for is the Paris Loop. It's kind of a poncho but shorter and I think more "spring-y". The bad news at first was that the yarn used in it is discontinued and looking for a substitute that is fun and springy, yet relatively inexpensive was next to impossible. I finally found a yarn at JoAnn Fabric of all places. I actually looks a lot like yarn I used for a scarf a couple of years ago that I love, I'm just worried it's going to be too fuzzy. I also am having trouble locating a 16" circular size 17 needle!!! But I think all the trouble with be worth it. It's a very simple pattern and I think it will go very fast, which is great for my short "project attention span". :)

Sunshine Here I Come!

2005-04-13T17:47:00.000-06:00

So we're all going to St. George this weekend to go to the Peter Breinholt concert at Tuachan.
It's gonna be great, we're going to camp in Zion's on Friday and then play all Sat. Then Sunday we'll hit church down there and then eat lunch at the Temple. It's supposed to be 80 all weekend. I can't wait! Maybe I'll even get a tan. Probably not since I think it's genetically impossible for me to tan for some reason, but you never know...

I'm also excited because next week my parents are coming to town for my sister-in-law's graduation. That's gonna be a blast. Fly safe Mom and Dad. :)

I'm So Crafty

2005-04-11T11:27:00.000-06:00

Wow, sorry it's been a while since I've posted. I just didn't have anything interesting to write about. Not that I have any mind boggling news now, but hey my weekend wasn't totally lame! I was pretty crafty (although I should have been a little more productive) this weekend.

On Saturday I did some cleaning and then decided to start on some crafts I had discovered this last week which included: guitar pick earrings, rhinestone studded flip-flops, planting sweet peas and working on my knit bag.

The guitar pick earrings turned out so cute. I love them. I even turned a pick I got from a Maroon 5 concert I went to last year into a charm I can wear on a necklace! It Rocks! (Pun intended)

The flip-flops were just an idea I've had for a while. Old Navy was having a 2 for $5 thing so I bought a pair for my sister too. They are super sparkly and will be fun for the pool this summer.

Two summers ago I planted a whole box of sweet peas in my backyard and they grew all summer until they were huge! They got to be around 4 - 5 feet and I just put some stakes with twine around them to support them. I love sweet peas. They are my favorite flower so I bought 3 different kinds and I started some inside and the others I'm going to plant directly into the ground and see which way works better. The place I'm living right now has these huge 6 or 7 foot fences and I think they will look so pretty growing along them. It's gonna be great. One of the varieties I got said they can grow to 15 feet tall!! I'm so excited, I'm going to go home and plant the rest tonight.