Change Is In the Air

I haven't blogged in a while. As Travis would say, I'm stating the obvious. I love to do that. But I feel like I just need to get it out there, you know? Honestly, I have been fairly blue the last couple of weeks, and I've been using all of my energy to fight off my SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder, or "depression that hits me when Fall starts.") We had a week or so here that was actually a little chilly, and although I absolutely love Fall, my chemicals seem to feel otherwise. This pretty much happens every year, around the same time, and I have had a couple of days when I really wanted to give up, and just collapse into the depression. But, I'm not going to allow that to happen. I feel more prepared than ever this year to fend it off, and have been taking the appropriate steps in my action plan to stay well. I know this all sounds a little weird, but it works, believe me, and I have to do what works.

One huge step I took today was that I resigned from my job as a social worker at the hospital. I know that work has been playing a huge part in affecting my mood. Things just weren't getting any easier; they were getting harder and more stressful, and I felt like I had no support from either my supervisor or my boss. I really believe you can only push yourself so far before you break. I am not willing to break, as I have in the past. I do not want to allow myself to stay in a situation that eventually leads to me crying on the floor in my apartment without being able to pick myself up. My job helps me live my life, but it does not have to become it. And I've been on the floor in my apartment crying before. I remember what it feels like. I remember how painful it is to get out of bed, to take a shower, or to make myself eat a meal. I am not willing to go there again, and I think leaving my job will help to prevent it. This is me taking the steps to stay healthy!

Now for a little bit of panic (naturally.) I don't actually know what I want to do with my life at this point. Maybe I need a break from social work; I've been doing it for 11 years. It definitely wears on sometimes. However, I love what I do. (Yes, this is me talking out of both sides of my head. I tend to do that, too.) So, I've been searching online and applying for various jobs, some social work related, some not. Ironically, I called Cindy (my sister) yesterday to tell her I was leaving my job, and as it turns out, she needs a two year old teacher at her day care. She asked if I could start Monday! How fantastic is that?! No, it's not going to pay anywhere close to what I was making at the hospital. But it is a job, which means money coming in, and I am so thankful. Was that divine intervention or what?!

I have also been destashing over the last few weeks. I am feeling a need to clean out my home, my life. I hate to admit it, but sometimes I have a problem with being materialistic. I have a tendency to shop when I feel down, in an attempt to make myself feel better. (This is actually a symptom of Bipolar Disorder that many people experience. Lucky me, huh?) I am making a serious effort to stop shopping and stashing. Of course, I went through my yarn first, and have sold a fairly large amount of it on EBay and Ravelry. This will obviously help a lot right now with paying my bills. I also cleaned out my closet, and have two bags for Goodwill. I offered my clothes that are too small to Mindy. Tonight, I scrubbed down my kitchen. It really feels good to cleanse my life.

I just have to keep reminding myself that all this change is good. My friend Lynn from work gave me a beautiful card today, and in it she put this quote:

"Anyone can give up, it's the easiest thing in the world to do. But to hold it together when everyone would understand if you fell apart, that's true strength."

Yes, it is.

Thursday Goodness

As promised, here's Orangina.

Pattern: Orangina by Glampyre Knits

Yarn: 1.5 skeins Circulo Anne in Orange

Needles: Size 3 24 inch Knit Picks Circular

Started: 7/07

Finished: 9/4/07

I loved knitting this pattern. The lace makes it look so intricate and detailed, but the truth is, it was so easy to memorize. Plus, the yarn I used was super-cheap and yet feels great. I received a lot of compliments on this last night at Knit Nite. Kara took this picture of me modeling it while we were at Knitorious. I was terrified to wear something I knit out in public. However, not only did I wear it to Knitorious, but I also still had it on when we went to The Kind & I for Thai food! I have to admit, I'm still a little self-conscious about the weight I have gained over the past year or so, and at first I felt like Orangina made me look huge. I just have to get used to the new me, and to keep reminding myself that it's better to be a size 10 or 12 and be happy than to be a size 4 or 6 and miserable (which I once was.)

In other news, I received some absolutely gorgeous handspun yarn from Funky Carolina.

Bronze Goddess

Apple Blossom

This is my first handspun. Carrie makes such beautiful yarn and roving. She was even recently featured on Lime & Violet's Daily Chum (although I'd like to put it in the record that I ordered it before I knew she was going to be so famous!) So now I have to figure out what to knit with each skein. I honestly just keep holding them, unsure if I will ever have the nerve to knit them at all!

Now for Stitches Midwest. Here are a couple of pictures of the wonderful people I spent time with there. (Better late than never, right?)

This is Sarah (of The Plucky Knitter fame) and I the first night we met, with all our yarn purchases from the day. Unfortunately, I'm concentrating so much on being cheesy that I forgot to hold up my yarn.

This is myself, Shannon (Sarah's sister-in-law and truly awesome blogless knitter,) and Sarah the day we were leaving Chicago. I had so much fun hanging out with the two of them. We sat in the little bar in our hotel Saturday night and talked for hours, like we had all known each other forever. I think knitting does that to people; it connects them. Too bad my picture is so blurry. And of course, once again, I am so excited that I look cheesy.

Finally, this is my sister Cindy and I. She is 6 years younger than me, and I consider her my best friend. We had so much fun that weekend together, from the late night car ride there to trying to figure out where to park at the hotel to Cindy sleeping for 11 hours Saturday night. (I think she was overwhelmed by all the knitting.) Obviously, I was such a happy camper that weekend, you couldn't have slapped that smile off my face. I never dreamed I'd be so lucky as to have such wonderful people in my life.

Can You Believe It?

So, at Sunday knitting, I brought up the fact that I haven't had an FO since May. That's pretty sad, really. It's especially sad because my last FO was a garter stitch scarf. Hmm. However, as of tonight, Orangina is done. Can you believe it? I have another FO! Finally, I am proving I really can (and do) knit. I'm planning to wear it tomorrow to Knit Nite at Knitorious, where I will have Kara take a pic or two so I can show you this awesome project. It was a fun and fairly quick knit, and it turned out great. I'm so excited that it is my first adult-size knitted article of clothing that actually fits, and looks pretty good! I mean, I'm actually going to wear it in public, in front of other people; in front of other knitters, even. Woo Hoo!

You know what the best thing was about finishing this project? I got to call Kara and tell her it was done. I can't tell you enough how fantastic it is to have good knitting friends. Usually, I stand in front of the mirror in my craft room, and tell Muffin and Sam how exciting it is to have completed a knitting project. They are generally less than enthused. But Kara? She was thrilled, and so was I...

Hmm, I Wonder Who This Belongs To?

The Tattoo:

Does she look familiar? (Please ignore the less than model-perfect body.)

I can't believe I did it!

I have been thinking about this for a long time now. Ask my sister, she probably got sick of me bringing it up all the time. I've gotten hooked on some of the tattoo shows on TLC, such as L.A. Ink, and a few of my work friends have tattoos. I have been scanning the internet for knitters with tattoos, and became so intrigued and mesmerized by the idea. So at lunch on Wednesday, when Sarah asked if anyone wanted to go with her to get a tattoo Friday night, I jumped at the chance. I went home that night and searched online to create the perfect knitting tattoo design.

Right after work on Friday, Leah, Sarah, and I headed to Trader Bob's, where I got my first (and let me clarify, only!) tattoo. Leah and Sarah already each had one, so they were getting their seconds. Being able to go with them was such a bonding experience. However, I have never felt such excruciating pain; I can't imagine doing it a second time!

My tattoo artist spent a lot of time really working with what I had brought in to create something that was absolutely perfect. Interestingly enough, Sarah's took around 10 minutes, Leah's took around 5 minutes, and mine took 35 minutes! Everyone kept saying they were so proud that I was able to sit through a fairly large and detailed tattoo for my first time. Let me tell you, I honestly didn't think I was going to make it. But I knew if I got up to take a break in the middle, I would never sit back down in that chair. Somehow, I made it through. And now that it's over, I feel it was totally worth it.

I had known I wanted to get a knitting related tattoo for quite a while. To some, that may seem corny or trite, but to me, it symbolizes the person I have finally become, the person I have grown into over this past year of transition. Being a knitter has brought me into a world of friendship, honesty, and value. I now know what it means to be true to myself, and to be a part of a "culture" of acceptance, uniqueness, and creativity. I would not be who I am today if I were not a knitter.

I was so touched at the timely Knitting Daily post for Friday. I firmly believe in the healing power of knitting. Some people may think I'm crazy for doing this, and a small part of me thinks so too. But I know I did it for me, not for anyone else, and I know how meaningful knitting is to me. I will remain a knitter forever.

Just a Quick Blurb

Yes, I'm alive! I don't know what my deal is lately, but my time management skills suck. I think this is due in part to the fact that now that I have friends and go out and do things, I finally have a life, which prevents me from having time to blog, clean the house, etc. (I know, cleaning the house isn't really a SassyKrafty topic, but I thought I'd throw it in there. I honestly really need to clean. And let's not even discuss going to the grocery store.) I do have a lot to share with you, and to prevent a super-long post, I'm going to do this in smaller increments. Stay tuned for posts about Stitch n' Pitch, Stitches Midwest, and new yarn. For now, I wanted to show you the absolutely fantastic present my friend Mindy made for me following my surgery.

Yes, those are Gall Bladder Gift Tags and Stitch Markers! How creative - they totally cracked me up. And, how thoughtful. I really do like having friends, even if it does mean I have less time to clean the house...

Orangina

Yes, I had to jump on the Orangina bandwagon. I just love Stefanie Japel's patterns! And, now that I have Ravelry, I succumb to peer pressure so quickly. It's like everyday I find something on there that someone else is knitting/has knitted, and I just have to knit it too! Plus, I really wanted to be working on something fairly mindless. In cotton. I'm guessing this is because it has been so stinking hot here. Although of course I have the fear that I won't finish it in time to wear it this summer (because apparently I don't finish projects anymore. I simply collect yarn and patterns.) Either way, Orangina is fulfilling my present knitting needs and desires. Besides, look how gorgeous this lace pattern is. And it's so easy!

On other news, Sarah, a.k.a. The Plucky Knitter, made her debut on The Loopy Ewe last night! WooHoo! I literally had been stalking the site all day yesterday (I just had a feeling a Sneak Up was coming.) Well into the evening, I noticed new icons were going up on Sheri's site, and of course, one of them was for The Plucky Knitter, which you can also get here on Etsy. I emailed Sarah immediately - how exciting to have her yarns on TLE! Anyway, the Sneak Up did happen last night, and I snatched myself a few things, including some TPK lace weight in a beautiful blue called Afternoon Tea. Gorgeous.

I believe Kara and I will be making an excursion to TLE on Friday, just to soak in a little yarny goodness and visit with Sheri. Kara has never experienced TLE in person. I am so excited to go with her!

Cindy (my sister) and I made our reservations last night for a hotel in Chicago for next week. That's right, we're going to Stitches Midwest! I can hardly believe it. It just happens to be right at the end of my medical leave from work - perfect! And, I finally get to meet Sarah in person as well. So much excitement going on around here. Although I'm wondering how Cindy (a non-knitter at this point) is going to react to all the craziness of the knitting world...

Thanks to everyone for all the well wishes and great comments on my last post. Everyone is so kind and thoughtful. It's so wonderful to have such great friends. I honestly don't know how I was living without you all for so long!

And Now For Something A Little More Exciting

So apparently some people think I'm not very exciting in my blog, but am a little less boring in person. (This has kind of been an ongoing joke lately.) After much discussion with the girls, I realized this was indeed true. For those who have known me for a while, I am a fairly private person, and it takes some serious determination on my part to "share." I know, so silly, since as a social worker I ask people to share with me all day long. (Of course, work is different. Besides, I'm totally comfortable with other people sharing!)

For as long as I can remember, I wanted to hide the real me from everyone. I was terrified that if I shared who I really was, people wouldn't like me. I thought I was so different, and isolated myself to the point of feeling very alone. This was all definitely generated by a low self-esteem and a long history of depression. I have been in treatment, on meds, and worked with therapists a gazillion times. However, this year has been my turn around point. I finally asked a friend at work if I could have the name of her therapist. I took a huge step that day. My first day to share a little piece of what was going on inside of me. Asking that question and then choosing to work hard with that therapist has forever changed my life.

One of the biggest changes I've worked on and been the most proud of has been my decision to make friends. Real friends. Not just keeping up with acquaintances, but actually talking with people about my life and their lives and letting people in what I had always thought was my isolated, dark, and depressing world. As it turns out, I have similarities with all kinds of people, and I am totally loving getting to know everyone! I started with the girls at work, sharing small things about myself in small increments. Then I branched out into the knitting world, and am making some awesome friends with some fantastic people, both online and in person. I am still so stunned that I actually have plans to go out with people, and that I really look forward to going out, rather than being scared to death to leave my little apartment. I finally feel like a worthwhile human being!

So, here's where all the irony comes in. I went to a new SnB Sunday after work, saw some great people, and had a great time. Life was fine. Went to bed that night, woke up around midnight, and felt physically terrible. I had pain (which I had thought was heartburn) but it was so bad that I eventually got sick to my stomach and just cried. I didn't sleep at all the rest of the night. The next morning I called in sick to work and talked with my doctor. I just started seeing her a few months ago. She had me tested and was treating me for acid reflux, and we were both thinking this was just a nasty flare up. So she increased my meds, and that was that. Tuesday, I still felt awful, and the pain was not going away. So I missed work again (which I absolutely hate to do - honestly - I hate calling in sick.) I finally reached my breaking point Tuesday night around 9:30, and I just knew something was really wrong. I called the doctor, and she sent me to the ER. I eventually got admitted, and had a bunch of tests run. Turns out, I had 6 gallstones in my gall bladder and 1 stone stuck in my bile duct on the way to my pancreas. That was what was causing the excruciating pain. So, I am now minus 7 gallstones and 1 gall bladder! First ever surgery and first ever stay in the hospital (just got discharged yesterday.) I actually was admitted onto my own floor at the hospital! The staff was great, and I had a bunch of people stopping in to say hi. Unfortunately, for a while I was too sick to really appreciate it. Man, I have never been that sick before in my life - AWFUL!

So, now I am recuperating. Mandatory time off work (oh darn.) The only thing is, I'm not allowed to drive for a whole week. This sucks when you are a single person. Especially a single person who finally enjoys doing things with friends! (See the irony there?!) But this is all ok. First, I will have tons of time to knit and read and blog, which I am always wanting to do. Second, the doctor seems to think these stones have been a problem for years, but had obviously never been diagnosed. She says once I get past the surgery recovery, I should feel better than ever. Looking forward to it!

So anyway, to all of you I have been getting to know and hanging out with, I will be back, just as soon as I can drive! So, do you think this post was a little more exciting?

Thanks to My Secret Pal 10

A huge thanks goes out to Jeanne, who was my Secret Pal 10! She spoiled me all the way through! The final package was so thoughtful; I could really tell she put a lot of time, effort, and thought into my gifts. Check it out!

Ya'll know I've been working on lace for a while now. Jeanne decided to make my final package a "Lace Starter Kit." How perfect is that?! She sent a row counter that will hang on my needles, the Knit Picks Chart Keeper, a notebook, Lavender Eucalan, blocking pins, a skein of Elsebeth Lavold Silky Wool to knit Knitty's Branching Out, and the Knit Picks Adamas Shawl pattern for when I'm ready to dive into something more difficult. Jeanne, you are fantastic! Thank you so much for being so kind!

I Am Going To Scream (Or Maybe Cry)

Ok, so apparently I'm having one of those weeks during which my knitting skills are on the blitz. Earlier this week, after being about 3/4 of the way through Cindy's Rusted Root, I decided to take some measurements of both her and the sweater. Wouldn't you know, RR was knitting up huge in the next size up. Remember how I ripped back a while ago because I thought it was too small? I completely miscalculated both the sweater's and my sister's measurements. How is that possible? So now I'm only about 1/4 of the way through the sweater at this point. I'm beginning to think it will make a good Christmas present.

In order to prevent making mistakes during the lace panel on RR, I took the Montego Bay Scarf to Knit Nite Wednesday. I had also brought along FCS, hoping that maybe someone could help me figure out a better way to keep track of my stitches. Annie was that someone. She spent some time suggesting needles to use for lace, and showing me how to separate the pattern into smaller sections using markers. Thanks Annie!

You would think after all that guidance and teaching from Annie, I would just be flying right through the FCS, right? Wrong. To add to the proof that I have absolutely no knitting skills right now, I just spent 2 1/2 hours trying to knit 4 rows on the FCS. I repeat, trying. I realized that I need to move the markers and add more every so many rows. I thought I had grasped that concept. But the marker placement thing seemed to throw me all off, and somehow I kept ending up with too many stitches. I just ripped the 4 rows out again, and am back to where I started earlier this evening. Thank goodness for lifelines, in both FCS and RR.

After a week like this, you would think I would give up knitting altogether. Not so. Interestingly enough, I instead felt the need to add more projects to my already long Queue. I blame Ravelry for that. (I think I'm already addicted.) I went to The Weaving Department yesterday, since all of their yarns were 30% off this weekend. There, I was finally able to find a Size 6 24 inch Addi Turbo Lace needle, which the FCS has been both on and off today. Of course, in knitting my four rows a million times, I did get a good chance to try this needle out. I really love it - definitely worth buying. Nice and pointy, and not quite as slippery as the Knit Picks Options. The slightest bit of drag makes me feel a little less scared about losing stitches. I also bought two different skeins of Noro Silk Garden for the Child's Rainbow Scarf in Last Minute Knitted Gifts, (I know, like I need to knit another scarf in the middle of the summer,) and a skein of Rowan Cashsoft DK to make Grumperina's Odessa. (I have never bought a skein of Rowan yarn. I am very excited to try it out.) So, are you beginning to see the winter knitting theme here? I wonder why I have such a desire/need to knit winter accessories this summer. Needless to say, I believe in the theory that the cure for WIPs that aren't going very well is to cast on for another project or two. Maybe I'll just put FCS aside for now...

A Thank You, & Always Trying Something New

Here's my last set of stitch markers I received in the most recent swap. Aren't they beautiful?

They are made by Robin from The Robin's Nest. That's right, that's some handmade soap in that box, called Minty Fresh. I love it. Robin is definitely multi-talented! Thanks again Robin!

Cindy's Rusted Root is driving me a little crazy. I thought the medium size was too small for her, but I'm thinking the large is going to be way too big. I wish she was here so I could have her try it on all the time. I'm thinking I'm going to have to rip back again, and maybe add some more decreases at the waist. This thought is making me nervous, since I NEVER have the courage to alter a pattern. But, the time has come to step out of my box. However, I hope to see Cindy later on in the week, and have her try it on so I can take some more precise measurements. I'm so horrible at math. I know, hard to believe I can make it as a knitter, huh?

So what's the cure for a WIP that you just can't seem to get right? That's right, cast on for yet another project! I couldn't help it. My extra needles for my Knit Picks Options set came in the mail Saturday. Remember, I couldn't start the Forest Canopy Shoulder Shawl, since my Size 6 needles were in Rusted Root? Well, wait no more! I now have TWO pairs of every size needle from 4 to 10.5 for my Options set. I started the FCS on Sunday, messed up (before I had put a lifeline in) and started over again yesterday. Here's my progress.

I know, it's a fairly small shawl at this point. I've only done the set up rows and about 6 rows of the first body of the pattern repeat. I'm new at the whole knitting with lace weight yarn thing, so it's coming along very slowly. I'm knitting very deliberately, but I'm loving it! And of course, I'm using The Plucky Knitter Laceweight in Wuthering, which is knitting up beautifully, don't you think? I mean, look at those colors! Gorgeous! Thanks again to Sarah for allowing me to be a test knitter. I have to say, this yarn is SO soft and wonderful to work with. It just slides through my fingers, and works great with my Knit Picks needles. I hear firsthand that The Plucky Knitter yarns may just be in an upcoming Loopy Ewe sneak up. Believe me, you want to buy this yarn. It is luxurious!

I Love Saturdays

I participated again in The Stitch Marker Exchange. (I really think stitch marker collecting can become as much of an obsession as yarn collecting.) I have received some great packages this week with some gorgeous stitch markers inside! First, a great set from Kimberly (notice how she even sent them on a decorated safety pin!) I love these color combos.
And second, a set from Cass, who says this is her first time making stitch markers. Looks like a pro to me! How pretty are these beads? And, Cass also sent this cute set of note cards. I love them! I actually collect note cards and journals, and these are a perfect addition to my collection - how thoughtful!I definitely have some great partners! Thanks again!

Here is The Plucky Knitter Lace Weight Yarn wound:
(I have to admit, I love winding skeins of yarn. How did I ever live without my swift and yarn winder?)

I realized the other night that I'm planning to swatch for the Forest Canopy Shoulder Shawl on Size 6 needles. Of course, I went straight to my set of Knit Picks Options. However, I soon remembered that my Size 6s are being used right now for Rusted Root. Not a problem, I thought. Maybe I could just swatch on Size 5s and see how that goes. Or, I could spend a little time today at my local LYSs and online, searching for the new Addi Turbo Lace Needles. I chose the latter, but to no avail. No one had a Size 6 in site. This is ok. It's actually a good thing. I mean, I was getting ready to spend money on a needle I pretty much already have. Granted, I really wanted to try the new Addis, but I don't need to. Besides, it sounds like the Knit Picks needles are sharper than the Addi Lace Needles anyway.

This is just more motivation to finish another WIP! (Soon!)

Busy, Busy, Busy!

I received my yarn from The Plucky Knitter's Etsy Shop. How beautiful is that?! Here, take a closer look: The colorway is Wuthering Heights. It is a skein of 900 yards of Hand Painted Merino Lace Weight. Sarah says the yarn is "Hand Artisan Yarn" from Uruguay; single ply. It totally reminds of Malabrigo (which some of you may remember is my favorite yarn.) I have been wanting to try the new Malabrigo Lace Weight, but I'm thinking now I've found something better in The Plucky Knitter! Recommended needle size is 0-3 US, although Sarah also states it also worked great on a US Size 9. As her description says, it is definitely luxuriously soft and gorgeous. Hand wash cool, lay flat to dry instructions, very normal for merino lace weight yarn. I'm planning to wind it this evening. I'm really excited to see it in a nice yarn cake, although part of me wants to keep it in the skein and simply fondle it. However, I promised Sarah I would be a test knitter, so I must knit this yarn! I've picked the Forest Canopy Shoulder Shawl, a pattern that has been in my queue for quite some time. I think this colorway will be fantastic for such a pattern. I will keep everyone updated on how it winds, knits up, and so on.

On other knitting news, I had to rip quite a bit of Cindy's Rusted Root Friday night. I thought I would try it on; I had gotten down a good 5 inches or so since that last picture. As it turned out, the size was practically perfect for me, which meant it would probably be too small for Cindy (she has a much better figure than I do!) But, I wasn't too discouraged. I simply ripped until my lifeline, and started the next section over, in the next size up. It's coming along well, although I'm thinking after this slight set back, it will not be done in time for her birthday celebration this Sunday. That's ok, I already have a few other presents for her (can't tell you what they are; Cindy sometimes reads my blog!)

I've spent a lot of time on Ravelry this past week, finally. I was invited a while ago, but could never seem to find the time to get my notebook updated. I think it finally is. I added all of my yarn into the "Stash" section today - boy, do I have an embarrassing amount of yarn! The great thing about this is that I now see my stash in project form, and it's kind of like keeping a "Things To Do List" now. I can knit from my stash, and then update my listings in Ravelry. It will also help to hold me accountable (I hope!) Plus, I really enjoy searching through everyone else's notebooks as well. There are so many talented knitters out there!

I'm also working on getting myself set up for Skype. After listening to the SSK Podcast with Shannon and Stephanie, I got pretty excited about it. I really wanted to participate in their first Virtual Stitch 'N Bitch, but I didn't have a microphone or headset at the time. Thanks to Amazon, now I do. I just need to take the time to figure out how it all works. The Internet never ceases to amaze me!

Sorry for the Delay

Thanks so much for the kind comments of people wondering where I was - it's nice to know I was missed! I usually try to blog on the weekend, but last weekend was used up with babysitting my niece for 3 days, and then having to work. And this weekend? Well, it was on my list of things to do... Somehow I always end up getting distracted. I hope today's post will make up for time lost!

First of all, some great news. My friend Sarah, The Plucky Knitter, has opened her very own Etsy shop! She is so talented; her yarns are beautiful. She has also asked me to be a test knitter and possibly do a review. I'm so flattered! I honestly didn't think I was a good enough knitter to be a test knitter. The best perk? I get to fondle some of her gorgeous yarn! (I really think this is a ploy on Sarah's behalf to get me to lust after her yarn, knowing that if I have the chance to touch a skein, I will definitely want more. She is very smart, and she knows me well!)

Speaking of yarn, Nora asked me today if I had any additions to my sock yarn stash. Embarrassingly enough, of course, I do! First up is yarny goodness from Jen at Wool Girl. Let me start by saying Jen is such a sweetheart to work with! She has fabulous yarns to choose from. And she'll even offer to set some aside for you if you have a special request. She did that for me with my request for Pigeon Roof Studios in the Punk colorway. That's the two skeins on the far right. Next to those is Union Center Knits WhatNot Sport in Wool Girl, and on the far left is Lavender Sheep in Bad Girl. I think I'm going through a slight pink phase. What do you think?

My next picture of absolutely yummy yarn porn is Lime 'n Violet Sasquatch sock yarn in Xanax. Love the colors, love the name. I was so excited that I had the chance to get online and catch that update. I happened to be off that day watching Maria, and she was taking a nap. Usually I'm at work when all the updates take place, and it's really hard to sneak online and shop for yarn at work! (Although I have done it - don't tell my boss!) Anyway, here's the beautiful skein.

And a close up.

On the knitting front, I'm finally back in the swing of things. I know I've talked about this before, but it's just amazing to me how much time I spend online looking at knitting, rather than actually doing it. I was on the Internet quite a bit this weekend. But, I'm making the commitment now to knit and finish these projects that have laying around for a while. First, I finished a Malabrigo scarf. I know, knitting yet another wool scarf in the springtime. Yes, it got up to 82 degrees this week. But this is about finishing, people, and knitting from the stash! I had to find something that would knit up quickly, and get me back in "finishing" mode. Now I'm excited!

Pattern: none, just simple garter stitch

Yarn: Malabrigo Worsted in Marron Oscuro, 1 skein to knit, and some leftovers from the hat that I used for the fringe

Needles: Knit Picks Options Size 7

Started: 5/20/07

Finished: 5/30/07

I also spent some time working on Rusted Root for my sister Cindy, although I feel like it hardly looks like I made any progress!

Stephanie talks about this phenomenon in her latest book; how you can spend all this time knitting and knitting, and then when you measure your garment, it still measures the same as when you started. But I'm determined! Actually, I'm hoping to finish it and give to her as a birthday gift. Her birthday is June 18 - am I being realistic? I feel like I am sometimes an awfully slow knitter. However, back to my earlier comment: I am limiting my time online. I think that will help tremendously. Must...Complete...More...Projects!

Other projects I'm working on? 1.) Of course, that stinkin' Toshiko Tote that I started when I first learned to knit. 2.)And the second sock of the Jaywalkers in Scout's Swag (also for my sister, by the way. Hmm, maybe I should plan to give her a pair of socks for her birthday instead of a sweater...) 3.) And finally, the second sock of the Heelless Sleeping Socks from Knitting Vintage Socks in Mountain Colors Bearfoot (I think I just got bored with this one.) I am also all ramped up about starting some Spring/Summer knits, but I plan to finish at least one more WIP before I cast on something new. I did order two kits from kpixie yesterday: Flair, by Knit and Tonic, and the Eyelet Cardigan, by Blue Sky Alpacas. Both will be in Blue Sky Alpacas Dyed Cotton. Plus, I used my gift card for Michaels on some Lion Brand Cotton Ease in Maize to make the Turtleneck Tube Vest from Fitted Knits. I want to knit just about every pattern in that book. Never mind the 6 million pairs of socks I need to knit up. See why I have to stay off the Internet? Although I've really been wanting to spend some time updating my Ravelry account...

Flashing My Stash for Secret Pal 10!

Real Knitting Content & Some Other Stuff

The Knitting Content

Pattern: Chevron Scarf from Last Minute Knitted Gifts

Yarn: 1 skein Socks That Rock Medium Weight in Farmhouse &

1 skein Socks That Rock Medium Weight in Watermelon Tourmaline

Needles: Size 5 Knit Picks Options Circular

Started: 3/31/07
Finished: 5/13/07

And here is the first of hopefully 2 Jaywalkers, on my beautiful new sock blocker from The Loopy Ewe.

The Other Stuff

Of course, I've been tagged! Each person tagged gives 7 random facts about themselves. Those tagged need to write in their blogs the 7 facts, as well as the rules of the game. You need to tag 7 others and list their names on your blog. You have to leave those you plan on tagging a note in their comments so they know that they have been tagged and to read your blog. I’ve been tagged by Sarah.

1. Sometimes I think I care more about animals than I do people. I have such strong compassion for animals, I think because they are innocent, vulnerable, and offer unconditional love. This is why I became a social worker instead of a vet. I could never have handled being a vet - too much emotion.

2. I love to make lists. I make a "Things to Do" list every Friday, that carries me through the weekend. I have 2 pages worth of my "Knitting Projects" list that I keep in a binder with all of my patterns from the Internet.

3. I have an obsession with sheet protectors. As mentioned above, my "Knitting Projects" binder is one of 12 binders on my bookshelves. They house everything from my bank statements, knitting how-to's, and beading ideas, to name a few.

4. I am addicted to the Internet. I can't decide if this is a good or bad thing. I check my email, read blogs, shop, blog, and just about everything else. I've been trying to curb my online shopping here lately, which feels super hard.

5. I used to be a dancer, back in grade school and high school. Ballet was my passion, and I often dreamt about becoming a prima ballerina. I was also on the Pom Squad in high school. I still have a desire to buy a leotard and some soft pink ballet shoes, although I can't imagine I would look too good in a leotard anymore!

6. I have naturally curly hair, just like that little girl in Charlie Brown.

7. I hate to cook. This is ok right now, since I am still single. I eat a lot of cereal. But I worry what will happen if I get married - guess I need to fall in love with someone who is much better in the kitchen than I!

I tag Robyn, Mindy, Hope, Rachel, Kim, Knit Diva, and Jennifer.

What a Great Week!

First, I must show you the gorgeous yarn I received from My Small Wonders Etsy shop.

This has been in my stash for quite some time, but I could never get a good photo of my own skein, so I finally asked Donna if I could borrow hers. The colorway is Seaside Jewels. It's exquisite, don't you think?

Now I need to tell you about the great time I had Wednesday night. I finally went to Knit Nite at Knitorious! I've been chatting back and forth with Mindy, and she shared that she attends Knit Nite herself. I thought, well, I'll kind-of know someone now, so I should go. It was fabulous! I was amazed at all the people; seriously, maybe 20-25 people were there throughout the evening. Some of the people I met were Mindy, who identified me as SassyKrafty the second I walked in (how cool is that?), and who was knitting a beautiful sock in her own handdyed colorway (you can see a pic on her blog); her roommate Kara, who was knitting both a gorgeous sock and an entrelac scarf; Jenn, who was knitting lace with Hand Maiden Sea Silk; and Rachel, who happens to be saved in my favorites on Etsy! I decided I had to get a skein of her Dyeabolical Yarn - I picked Dark Envy. She definitely has an eye for colors that pop!

I had originally heard about Rachel and her awesome sock yarn on who else but Lime 'n Violet, which she also is addicted to. How cool is it that Rachel has her yarns right her in St. Louis, at what happens to be my favorite LYS? I felt like I was meeting someone famous! I even jokingly asked her to autograph my yarn skein band (I know, I'm a total knitting geek. I can't help it!) Anyway, Rachel has suggested we try to get Lime 'n Violet to come to St. Louis for a book signing at Knitorious. I just posted a comment on their podcast blog, pretty much begging them to come. (Again, total knitting geek.) I honestly am having a little bit of Lime 'n Violet withdrawal, as there's no podcast this week. (Snif, snif.)

Anyway, Knit Nite was great. I met a ton more people, but of course can't remember every one's names yet. But I will go back next week for sure. I took my Chevron Scarf, which feels like the never ending project. It's going to be a freakishly long scarf. And, it seems a little silly to be knitting a wool scarf in May. But, I love it. And I received a ton of compliments on it too. I thanked dogged for her inspiration. Can't wait to finish it up, block it, and post the final product!

Thanks to everyone who has wished me a happy birthday - it really was a great day. And I was originally thinking I didn't really want to celebrate it anymore, you know, being over 30 and all. But, celebrate I did! The people I work with were so kind, and showered me with cakes, gifts, cards, and even a plant! My family took me to eat at The Elephant Bar, which I love. (You know I have that small thing for elephants!) I suppose the day made me realize how lucky I am to have so many wonderful people in my life.

We Have A Winner!

Hooray for Robyn of Knit and Purl Mama! She was my 127th comment! She'll be receiving Ashabee's Creations sock yarn in Eclipse. Thanks to everyone who participated. You are fantastic!

1 Year Blogiversary Contest!

Monday, May 7 is my 1 year Blogiversary. I can't believe it's been a year! I met Beth last April while seeing the Yarn Harlot, and she introduced me to the idea of blogging. Up until that point, I thought you had to be someone famous like the Yarn Harlot to have a blog, not someone like me; new and fairly clueless. I look back at my old posts; boy was I a novice knitter. I remember being so excited about my first comment, which happened to be from my non-knitter friend Travis. At the time, I had no idea how many people I would have the chance to "meet." Through the year, I have developed online friendships with so many other bloggers, and have learned so much about myself and my crafting. I feel as though I am a part of an amazing community of knitters. Now, I've already passed my 100th comment.

May 7 is the 127th day of the year (and 3 days before my birthday - ugh.) Anyway, I have a gorgeous skein of Ashabee's Creations Sock Yarn in Eclipse to give away to my 127th comment! I can hardly wait to see who it is!

Thank you to everyone who has read my blog, left comments, become my friend, and touched my life in such a way that I cannot describe.

Sweetest Secret Pal

I have to begin by saying, my Secret Pal 9, Hope, was absolutely fantastic. I just can't believe that I have just as great of a pal for Secret Pal 10! I received this today:

She was SO kind and thoughtful, and put a lot of hard work into my package. She actually dyed the sock yarn herself, basing the colors off of my blog and what I said I liked. Look at the label she made - it actually says Sassy Krafty! The yarn is so soft, and superwash too! (I have to apologize; my picture-taking skills suck, don't they? I don't know why I haven't bought a book or taken a class or something. Hmm...will have to put that on my "List of Things to Do.")

She also made a set of beautiful sock stitch markers and a row counter to match, and found a cute matching bag on Etsy too! The bag actually came with a little pocket and tags, so you can label what project you're working on. How perfect for someone as organized as me? The needles are of course to go with the sock pattern and yarn, which she says is for my very own "Traveling Sock," which leads to the next item - the book. That's right - signed by the Yarn Harlot herself!

Plus, she even sent some squishy balls for Muffin and Sam, which they have already played with this evening. How nice is that? This package absolutely made my day. Thank you so much Secret Pal 10! I can hardly wait to find out who you are!

Finally!

I am breathing a sigh of relief. The Jaywalker is back on the needles, and I'm back in the knitting groove. Phew! Thanks for all of your moral support during my trying time. I still ended up with an extra stitch, but as I told Romi, I just knit two together and all is well! Notice she also experienced a knitting crisis yesterday. Here's my proof that everything is ok.


Now for the yarn porn. Remember my visit to see Sheri at The Loopy Ewe last Saturday? (I have to admit, she posted yesterday that she has gotten in even more yarn, and I was tempted to visit again!) Anyway, Sheri is wonderful; super sweet, very kind, and has the best yarn ever! I drooled as I walked down her basement steps and began to see all of the gorgeous yarn in her shop. She actually said she feels she's lucky because whenever she needs a yarn fix, she just goes to her basement. How cool is that? So, here's what I was able to obtain:


From the left: 1 skein Seacoast Handpainted in Kelp, 2 skeins Apple Laine in Strawberry Jam, 2 skeins Claudia Handpainted in Butter Pecan, and a 150g skein of Handmaiden Sea Silk. I will definitely be visiting her again!