JuleeQue

Life's a Beach

2011-07-27T19:44:00.001-07:00

Here in Athens, the beaches are a popular place to hang out. We can take the tram from our house and be at a nearby beach in about 20 minutes. We shoehorn our Costco chairs into a tight little sandy spot and try to accomplish our seaside goal: soak up some sunshine as we stare out over the Aegean Sea seeking a few hours of calm respite from the metropoliton bustle of the city. Apparently, many other Athenians also share this vision, because the beaches are jammed and there's no quiet calmness to be had. Recently we went on a journey to try to find our idea of the perfect Greek beach weekend. We took the 30 minute ferry ride to the Greek Island of Evia, and made the short drive to the city of Rovies.

The beach was a 5 minute walk from our hotel. Uncrowded and calm - families sat in the shade of trees just off the beach, reading and chatting. A short strip of pebbles sloped down to the crystal clear water.

Several Tavernas had outdoor seating along the beach, with plenty of inviting little tables where you could sit in your suit and sip a frappe in a tall glass.

We spent two days in Beachy heaven: wondering at the origin and destination of the various boats, listening to lapping waves, bobbing in the water and taking our salt crusted selves around the little town to explore.

We could hardly bring ourselves to leave, but when it was time, we took some peace from this place along and faced the bustling city with wider smiles.

What I saw on my morning run

2011-07-18T22:42:00.001-07:00

greekrun 029 a video by grammajewel08 on Flickr.

A quick look at the old Olympic Stadium in Athens, Greece. I was attempting a photo with my new ipod touch, but since I was without my reading glasses, made a video instead. :-)

Happy Tuesday!

Thinking of You...

2011-06-29T08:44:00.000-07:00

Crocheting with cotton never fails to give me a nostalgic reminder of my Grandma's kitchen. She and her sisters had stacks of crocheted potholders and embroidered tea towels edged with handmade lace. I spent so many happy hours in their kitchens, chatting, nibbling on cookies and eavesdropping on delicious gossip that it's no wonder I'm drawn to patterns that remind me of old fashioned kitchens. Crocheted flowers and lace just make me happy.
This Wednesday finds me in the midst of various scrap busting crochet projects. I'm not quite sure what they'll ultimately become, but the simple act of creating them has been enough to bring a smile and a happy heart.

Thinking of you Grandma!

Check out more Work In Progress Wednesday's at
Tami's Amis

A Shameful Admission

2011-06-08T06:14:00.000-07:00

What does it say about me that having had the opportunity to spend the past year in a beautiful foreign country full of interesting archeological sites, gorgeous beaches, delicious healthful food and colorful people, the happiest moment I've experienced has been a temporary homecoming to my own bed, my old Cuisinart coffee pot and some sorely missed American pop culture? I may have even hummed a few bars of God Bless America with the touch down on American soil. And what's American Pop Culture without a nice shiny and new materialistic acquisition? These things cost double overseas, people.

My Words With Friends I.D. is JuleeQue

A Summer 5K

2011-05-27T09:13:00.000-07:00

I'm training for a 5K, but I'm looking to burn up lengths of yarn rather than distance on the track. I'm participating in the Knit Girllls Stash Dash 2011, a summer long project to knock 5000 yards of yarn out of my stash.
I started last night, after midnight, by sewing the tail on a little kitty knit for my four year old Granddaughter.
My daughter bought this yarn from an indie dyer online when she was pregnant with said Granddaughter, hoping I would knit a soaker for the baby. The soaker never came to be, but the yarn was destined for little Ivy ever since. Ivy Kitty will become her new playmate.

My second Stash Dash project is the Caribbean Waters Shawl I've had on the needles for the past two months.
Progress was slow. I enjoyed working with the Malabrigo Sock. Who wouldn't?, but was lost in lace doldrums. Row upon row of boring lace repeats. Not very compelling in my opinion. The result is quite nice, though.

And that is the value of these kinds of contests.
They inspire me to knock those longer projects that I've lost the excitement for, off the needles, where I can appreciate them. And who can't appreciate a great FO?

To see more Finished Objects, check out Tami's Ami's FO Friday page.

The Loveliness of Handspun

2011-05-21T00:20:00.000-07:00

I'd never knit with handspun yarn until I won this skein from PirateRed on Ravelry. It looked pretty in photo's, but once I actually held it in my hands, I was lost. The delicately plied colors, the light lofty squishiness stole my heart and fired up my creative juices. I had to start knitting this loveliness right away.
A quick Rav pattern search, a quick poll amongst friends to narrow down pattern choice, and Becca's lovely handspun practically stitched itself into Leila Raabe's New New Shale Cowl pattern. Becca's yarn and spinning services can be found at A Song To Spin etsy shop. Her spinning wisdom can be found on her blog. The knitting of this brought a song to my heart and I'm now ruined for less. :sigh:
Help

Delphi at Easter

2011-05-16T20:33:00.000-07:00

Delphi is a wonderful place to be at Easter time. The town is small, making exploring on foot the way to go. We heard the chanting of the Easter services wafting through the windows of the beautiful old church: There were so many charming little walkways and squares to explore: The tavernas served up delicious local specialties: The ancient ruins of Delphi?
Magical.

On Easter's Eve, we were lucky enough to experience the annual procession behind the Body of Christ. A festive and colorful end to a perfect day in Delpi:

WIP Wednesday

2011-05-11T09:11:00.001-07:00

Here's a new Spring/Summer wardrobe addition that I plan to take along to Knit Nation in London this July. It's the Scarborough scarf by Jennifer Wood. I'm knitting it with Berrocco Linen Jeans in olive. I love the drapeyness of this yarn and pattern combination. The scarf stretches wide to become a stole, (to throw over the shoulders when the air conditioning is chilly), or knots into a long, light and breezy summer scarf.

Don't you just have to love it when such a good thing comes together?
Goodbye too long held stash yarn!
Hello perfect summer scarf!

Life is good.

Here's more Wednesday WIP's from Tami's Amis

Stripey Grandma Love

2011-04-28T18:12:00.000-07:00

I'm going to be a Grandmother again! Actually, once a Grandma always a Grandma, I'm thinking. It's probably more accurate to say that another Grandchild is joining my brood and I'm very happy about it.
In the grand tradition of Grandmothers in waiting, I'm taking to needlework to welcome the new little one. In my state of happy anticipation I pulled out some bright and soft cottons and started an ambitious project that will likely take months. Just a little Stripey Grandma Love to wrap up a much welcomed child.

The little chubby chirps, sent to me by a talented swap partner, Susan will keep me company while I'm waiting.
They're my new armchair companions.

Sock Yarn Bonanza!

2011-04-16T21:55:00.000-07:00

I received some lovely self striping sock yarn from my friend Bobbi over at MyBootee Boutique in order to knit up some sample socks for marketing purposes. I happen to adore her sock yarn. It's nicely twisted, (reminds me of Koigu!), for smooth, effortless knitting and excellent wear. I made my Mother a pair for Mother's Day last year and although she wears them frequently, they look like new. Granted, Mom is a knitter who hand washes her socks, but after a year of use, they haven't even pilled!

Doesn't every knitter love self striping sock yarn? One can happily knit away, watching the colors change between your fingers and transform the project, inch by inch. Bobbi's colorways are so vivid and well put together. The Margo colorway reminds me of a dried nosegay of violets. Something you might find preserved in a cedar chest in the attic. I called the sample sock Antiqued Violets.

I'm pulling out the Rainbow colorway next for more hypnotic, self-striping stitching fun!

Re: Your Hat

2011-03-22T04:23:00.000-07:00

My Dear Niece Tanya,

I finally finished knitting your hat, just as I'd promised I would! I thought you'd be happy about that, since you've been waiting and waiting. However, I haven't had a chance to send it yet. Your hat was ready to go....all nestled in pretty tissue paper in a priority mailing box, just waiting to actually be posted. The thing is - John and I were about to leave on a trip to Budapest when John checked the weather online. It was going to be ear-nippingly cold there and I, unfortunately, did not have a proper hat. Nothing to cover my ears at all, as a matter of fact!

I know you'll remember the hat I had at our last visit in January. That pretty cabled one? Well, Carli stole that one, or not really stole it, but just sort of claimed it, as daughter's are prone to do. I don't want to sound like I'm complaining though, because I was really glad that she loved the hat, it frankly looked better on her than on me, and it was pink.
Enough said.

So, there I was, without a hat and about to leave on a journey to a cold place where I'd be outdoors much of the time. I really didn't have a choice, sweetie. Your hat had to go along.

You'll be glad to know that your hat performed its' functions perfectly. As you can see, it perched on my head quite cheerily, looking cute and perky even under dreary skies. It kept me very warm and cozied up my ears quite nicely. It gets excellent ratings in both fashion and function.
Since it accompanied me on several educational outings, your hat knows some things about Budapest also, such as the proper way to pronounce Budapest. Bud-ah-pesht is the proper way. And how Hungarian goulash, (goo-Yash without the L if you can believe it), is actually a soup rather than a stew.

Interesting, right?

Speaking of goulash, I picked up some Hungarian paprika that I'll include in the package along with your hat, which I'll send out directly. Please tell your sister, Trisha that I've started working on her hat today.

Oh! One more thing:

You might want to warn her - we're experiencing a bit of cold snap right now, and I'm scheduled to travel to a nursing conference in Istanbul next week.

Her hat may just have to tag along.

Much Love,
Your Auntie Jul xxxooo

Why Shouldn't I?

2011-03-11T23:15:00.000-08:00

Remember I told you about my super cool, 3 month Secret Pal? Check out package numero dos:
Why yes! That is Madeline Tosh Sock in the Tart colorway. And yes, the box was filled with delicious chocolate Valentine's Candy. And yes, Dear Reader - that is a lovely, squishy, infinitely soft hand knit scarf. The note says, "Why shouldn't you have two Valentine's Days?"

Well! Why shouldn't I indeed?

And so, given that, I did.

The pattern is xeriscape. It brings out my inner Calamity Jane, don't you think?

Thank you Secret Pal for one - giving me a second Valentine's Day and two - making it so decadent and delicious.

C A R N I V A L !

2011-03-06T22:40:00.000-08:00

Easter is a major holiday here in Greece, something like our American Christmas. The hoopla leading up to Easter lasts about 6 weeks. Carnival is the last hurrah before the fasting of lent just before Easter. We spent the weekend before Clean Monday in Patras, Greece. The streets were crowded with people in festive gear - masks, feather boas, silly hats. Balloon vendors weilded giant colorful balloon bouquets. Street vendors lined the streets, as well as street performers and craft booths. The cobblestones were littered with scraps of confetti from the parties of the night before.

The atmosphere was festive and light and we enjoyed a delicious lunch at a local Taverna. Our waitresses were costumed as Dashing Pirates and Glittery Dancing Girls. We spoke to a knowledgable local Greek citizen who told us that the Carnival here in Patras, though one of the best in Greece - didn't compare at all to those in Northern Brazil. Could be - but we were suitably impressed anyway.
Happy Carnival!

Three Little Owl Pals

2011-02-28T03:29:00.000-08:00

Ana Clerc really hit the jackpot when she came up with this pattern. It's easy, is a great way to use up yarny leftovers and lends itself well to personalization. It's the
Owls Two Ways pattern, (free on Ravelry) and on her Ocean of Stitches Blog.

I had so much fun making these guys. I decided mine needed wings, so I made them like so:

co 12 sts
join in round
knit 2 rows
(kfb, k2) around
k 6 rows
k6,(k2tog) around for 2 rows
k 1 row
k4, (k2tog) around
k3, (k2tog) around
cut yarn and pull through stitches
You can stuff wings if you like, or just fold them appropriately and stitch to body

I also weighted them with dried beans before stuffing.
Fun!
Cute!
What more could a knitter ask for?
More Owl Pals!

Knitting by Sea

2011-02-21T04:43:00.001-08:00

Ahhhhhh: Mykonos! Such a beautiful Greek Island. Truly picturesque. It's a bit chilly there in February. Windy too, but beautiful nonetheless.

In many ways, a visit to Mykonos is like going back in time. There's windmills:
and wandering sheep cross the roads:
The hotels are quaint:
The views are stunning:

There are still treasures to be found:
And the knitting - Well, the knitting my friends, is fine!
Turkish Bed Socks by Churchmouse Yarn and Teas, knit in Colinette Jitterbug, Colorway: Jewel

Heeeere Kitty, Kitty!

2011-02-17T20:24:00.000-08:00

Had a rewarding little sewing session the other day where I could play with fabric and paint with stencils. I had this idea for a bag rattling around in the back of my head for awhile now and it finally escaped. I love how you can do whatever you like on the natural muslin outside of the bag to tie it into the inside print.

This is a great pattern - free online here. It makes a nice roomy bag with inner pockets. I only did them on one side, but it calls for them on both.

You could fit a nice sized project in these. I like to put larger projects in knot or drawstring bags to avoid altercations with yarn and zipper.

I think these bags would be super cute embroidered and/or beaded on the outside also.
What about attaching crocheted flowers? Really - the possibilities are endless. If you make any - please share. I'd love to see what you've come up with.

Christmas in Frankfurt

2011-02-15T10:35:00.000-08:00

more catch up on travel photographs

Romer Square
Being so far away from family at Christmas time, we decided we needed to go somehwere interesting so we wouldn't sit home lonely for family and depressed. We ended up in Frankfurt, Germany, thinking it would be a festive place at Christmas.
It was indeed. We went to Romer Square on Christmas Eve where they had "The Pealing of the Bells" at nightfall. It was the result of alot of different churches all playing the same song. It was beautiful. It was snowing. I'll always remember it:

On the day after Christmas, we took the train to Heidelberg, a picturesque little town. This is where my parents lived when I was born.

We found the German people to be friendly, and quite helpful. These sledders were leading us to the furnicular to get up to the castle.

Amazing.

Mom's Lovely Hands

2011-02-08T10:29:00.001-08:00

These are my Mom's lovely hands in this photograph. She's modeling for me the Cinnamon Hearts that I knit up for a certain swap partner from the Soaring Heart Mitts Pattern. These are a perfect Valentine's Day gift project. They go quickly in worsted weight yarn. I held two strands together of some Baby Cashmerino that started out gold and turned this yummy cinnamon color after a dip in some black cherry koolaid.

It's been wonderful having Mom here to visit for these past 3 weeks. We've went to the symphony, ate lots of great meals, explored various Athens neighborhoods and tourist sites and generally enjoyed being together. My Mom is so beautiful, inside and out.

I'm sure going to miss her when she goes.

Lucky Me

2011-02-01T21:16:00.001-08:00

I'm having a fortuitous start to the New Year. Things are really going my way. For one thing - I was matched with this super duper Secret Pal in the Secret Pal 16 group. AND I get to keep her for 3 whole months! She sent me a package full of wonderful new notions to play with. Talk about adorable:
The croc case was literally crammed full of wonderful things - T pins, stork scissors, crochet hook tool, stitch markers, highlighter tape, needle gauge, row counter and a chibi case. Also, the little black sheep tape measure. (I'm surely leaving something out). Such a handy and clever assortment of goodies. A special Thank You to my Secret Pal for making such a fun package!

THEN, I won yarn! No kidding! Me, who never wins anything! I won twice. Once in MOHS group - I received a skein of Noro Kureyon Sock in bold bright colors - and again in the Sock Knitters Anonymous group. The random number generator chose me to win this lovely skein of Superwash BFL from Black Cat Fibres. Feel free to ooooh and ahhhhh. OOoooOOOooooOOoooo
It's a dang good start.

Favorite London Place

2011-01-26T20:42:00.000-08:00

I was lucky enough to enjoy a recent long weekend visit in London. The city is lovely, full of history. It's so clean, (which I found puzzling, since finding a garbage can was usually a challenge), and the people seemed so very polite and mannerly. I loved how you could go anywhere in a heartbeat with a few pounds and a hop on the tube. A truly refined Metropolis. This place worked.
We walked all over the city at night and tried out a couple excellent local pubs. Whoever said the English don't have delicious cuisine should try the carrot and thyme soup we enjoyed with crusty bread. It was pretty delicious in our estimation.

And my favorite London place to visit? Hands down : Loop Yarn Store!
Now this, my friends, is a yarn store. All the Woolmeise and Madeline Tosh you can carry resides in that colorful place, and luckily enough - they feature their local dye artists as well. The staff are friendly and just the perfect amount of helpful. There are unusual little yarny gifty things you haven't seen everywhere, along with plenty of recent books and places to sit and peruse them. Original artsy things are tucked into all the corners. I must admit to having the compulsion to zip a bit of that shop into my suitcase to take home with me.

Thanks Loop, for the lovely afternoon. You are just the artful sort of shop I would have imagined in fashionable and smart London.

Welcome, Max

2011-01-18T06:25:00.000-08:00

I haven't met Max yet, but he's finally arrived, I understand, and will be needing some new things to wear. Teeny tiny soft little items to welcome him into this world and reassure him that the world is a benevolent place full of caring people. My contribution was made with Debbie Bliss Cashmerino yarn using the
Super-natural Stripes pattern by F.Pea

This one's a keeper. Max too, of course.

Festive Milan

2011-01-09T12:11:00.001-08:00

Here's a little catch up effort on the traveling we did in November/ December. We were lucky to see so many beautiful and amazing things - I really think I should share.

In late November, we spent a few days in Milan, Italy. We stayed in the downtown business area and took the underground metro to Duomo square, which holds the beautiful and amazing old church that has been under construction for 600 years. When I climbed the stairs out of the underground, it was like ascending into Munchkin land! Truly amazing - like nothing I've ever seen before.

The Architecture!

The Statues!

The lights!

And last, but certainly not least, The Coffee! order cafe' americano in Milan unless you'd be content with espresso. The coffee is nice, especially when served with a pot of hot milk

It's Nice to be Appreciated!

2011-01-04T06:10:00.001-08:00

Although it was a sad circumstance, the loss of my Father, that had me on an airplane home to the U.S. at the end of 2010 - being with family was wonderful and healing. Watching New Year's fireworks out the window of the room I shared with my Granddaughters was a wonderful memory. We "oooooohhed" and "awwwwwwwhed" - a most appreciative audience, as the neighbors unwittingly launched those colorful shooting stars right past our bedroom window.

The flight was, as always, far too long. I'm always amazed at all the passengers who are able to sleep. I usually cope with the situation by making great progress on a knitting project. International flights out of many areas of Europe don't allow knitting needles, though. Knowing this, I smuggled on a plastic crochet hook, storing it with the pens in my purse. This absolutely saved my sanity. Hence, the Sanity Saver cowl. It truly saved my skin. Without it - I surely would have been bouncing off the walls.

My Granddaughter Jaydin was entranced with the project. She claimed it promptly and called it her "ascot" (Maybe it's from a recent reading of Little Women that she got that word?) She's my romantic Grandchild - a dreamer for certain.

I completed the Ninja Loop Socks and brought them to give to my son in law, but sadly, they were a bit small, as I'd feared. My oldest Granddaughter snapped them up, though - so they weren't lacking for love. I was disappointed with these, as one of the skeins turned out to have lighter/darker areas that formed a sort of striping of two shades in the finished sock.

The 16 Cable Hat I'd recently completed for myself was much admired by and as a result, gifted to my daughter. It looks great on her.

The hat love grew and grew these first days of 2011. I made my Daughter in law a Pasha hat from Jane Richmond Designs and it proved so popular amongst all the cousins that I have orders for three more. This is my first project completed in the 12in2011 challenge. My oldest son and his best friend have both requested beanies. I'm thinking Koolhaas.

It's nice to be appreciated.

Secret Pal 16 Questionairre

2011-01-01T05:34:00.000-08:00

Here's that Questionairre for my Secret Pal 16 Partner:

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

I like wool, bamboo, silk, cashmere, cotton, linen, flax and blends thereof. My preference is for a smooth, plied yarn with twist. Singles and fluffy, hairy type yarns such as angora and mohair aren't my favorite.

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

I have two hand sewn dpn roll cases that swap partners have made me. They're both FULL. I keep socks dpns in one and larger sized ones in another. I keep my knit picks nickel interchangables in the plastic zip case they came in. I love pretty organizers and can always use more!

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

My Grandmother taught me to knit as a young girl. I promptly made one of a set of slippers for my best friend. I never completed the second. (My initiation into the world of second sock syndrome) Since I found Ravelry a couple years ago, I've self taught myself the more advanced techniques I know now from online sources and discovered I'd been twisting all my stitches.:-O I'd consider myself an intermediate knitter.

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

I have a wishlist on my Ravelry Profile

5. What’s your favorite scent?

I like natural type scents. Fruity, citrus, spices, coconut, lavendar and light florals

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

I'm trying to avoid candy these days. I can never dodge cookies for long though - just love them! Also like granola type mixes, flavored nuts, dried fruits.

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

I don't spin. I do sew, draw and watercolor paint, keep an art journal, dye yarn. I'd love to try my hand at polymer clay sometime.

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

I love music! Hmmmm, I'll have to revisit types I like...

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

Greens, Blues, Reds,Greys, Oranges, Browns, Natural tones. I really love most colors. I can appreciate a very neutral color palette all the way to super bright variagated or stripes. (Love playing with self striping yarns) The only colors I'm not crazy about are very light pastels, neons or black in combination with other colors.

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

I'm married and have 3 grown children along with 6 Grandchildren. No pets, unfortunately. I love them, I'm just allergic to pet dander. (Small amounts don't bother me - like if you have a pet and send me items from your home. Just can't live in the same house with it)

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

I do! All of the above, though I haven't had a poncho in about 30 years. :-) I live in a warm weather area, but I travel to colder areas and certainly appreciate warm accessories even in my area in the winter. (I'm a weather wimp)

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

Socks and other small accessories. (mitts, wraps, hats, cowls)

13. What are you knitting right now?

A cabled hat and a pair of socks

14. Do you like to receive handmade gifts?

I love to receive handmade gifts!

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

I prefer circulars for worsted weight knitting, dpn's for sock knitting. I like the larger dpns in bamboo, but sock sizes (U.S. 3 and smaller) in hardwood or other harder material since I bend the heck out of those skinny bamboo dpns. I'd love to get some of the Knit Picks Harmony wood interchangeable tips sometime.

16. Do you own a yarn winder or swift?

Yes to both of those

17. How old is your oldest UFO?

one year old :-/

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

I observe Christmas - love all holidays, especially if I'm off of work!

19. Is there anything that you collect?

I have a particular fondness for unique hand painted or carved small boxes and bowls, and for pretty fabric project bags and totes, pretty buttons

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

I don't have any magazine subscriptions. I'm sort of coveting the Brave New Knits book, the new Cookie A book and I sure wish I had a good stitch pattern book!

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

I'm just enjoying making pretty things at this point. When I need a technique to make something I want to make, then I convince myself to try it

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

I am a sock knitter. My feet are shoe size U.S. 8.5. They're about 9 inches long, 9.5 inches around the ball of my foot.

23. When is your birthday?

November 18th

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

Yes! JuleeQue

Ninja Loops

2010-12-13T02:24:00.000-08:00

I'm working on these great socks. The pattern is beautiful. The yarn is really quite nice. This is the first time I've knitted with Lorna's Laces. I'm enjoying knitting these very much. They're a Christmas gift for someone special.
The colorway is Cookie's Deep Dark Secret. As time goes on and the sock grows, I'm getting the unsettling suspicion that these may not fit the recipient. Hmmmmmmm. That would be bad. I knit on in the hopes that the stretchiness will prevail. Keeping my fingers crossed

Teeny Tiny Socks

2010-11-30T04:50:00.000-08:00

When I was a young girl, I was fascinated with miniature things. When I spied this pattern, it absolutely enchanted me, reminding me of the things I loved as a girl.

And because I love hand knitted socks of all types, I find this to be a perfect project for my various sock yarn scraps. At about 3 inches high and 2 1/2 inches wide, they're the sweetest little tree ornaments or package embellishments, and they can even hold a small gift of their own, like folded money or candy.

I'm making them by the dozen.

Grocery Shopping

2010-11-26T23:51:00.000-08:00

I've long considered this to be an annoying chore, those constant trips to the store to pick up another item I forgot to complete my meal - battling the inevitable whacky wheel on the cart - standing bored in a long line at the register.

Although grocery shopping here is more difficult in many ways, it's always an experience. The Laiki (li-KEE) opens in a different neighborhood in Athens each day. When Fridays come around, I grab my little 2 wheeled cart and walk about a quarter mile up steep uneven cobblestone sidewalks to the street where it's set up. The fish is fresh,
with loads of variety that I have very little idea of what to do with.
The fruit and vegetables are fresh and delicious. Grecians eat in season and they eat locally grown produce. Eggs are not refrigerated because they're so very fresh. The shells aren't washed so the natural barrier stays intact, keeping bacteria from entering the egg. Eating an egg here is amazing. The yolks are so dark that your scrambled eggs are orange rather than yellow. I normally buy lentils for my pot
and surely the world's richest, most delicious honey for my tea: Shopping at the laiki is not something done quickly. It's not at all convenient. I don't understand the language enough to make proper change, so I resort to an outstretched palm full of coins, from which the smiling, indulgent merchants pick out what I owe. We smile and nod our heads at each other alot. They sometimes try to practice their English. We laugh at our shared ineptitude. Shopping at the Laiki - it's become a one of my most favorite local things to do.

October Socks for Moi

2010-11-05T23:28:00.000-07:00

I finished these socks in October, the same month I started them in, which is quite the feat! (A feat for my feet. pun intended).

Lovely pattern: Watercolor Paintbox socks. I found it while looking for unappreciated patterns for the Sock Knitter's Anonymous group's October sock KAL.

I knitted these on my couch in America, on a long flight, on my couch in Greece, AND on a bus trip to the Pelopenese. These are very well traveled, sophisticated, international socks.

The yarn is a squishy BFL from Portfiber out of Portland, Maine. I love them so much that I'll even forgive them for turning my feet blue.

Time Travel

2010-11-03T08:48:00.000-07:00

I've spent my first few weeks in Athens sightseeing. Some notable sites to see include ancient ruins such as the Acropolis, The Parthenon, The Temple of Poseidon. Wandering through these ancient sites is absolutely surreal. One can't help but imagine the civilizations that created them and question how in the world they managed to acomplish this massive feat without any mechanized equipment. Think of it: Huge slabs of marble were somehow hoisted hundreds of feet in the air and fitted in place atop giant pillars. I can only shake my head in amazement.

And yes, I've seen pictures of these structures in books. But being here is so very different, so much more engaging.

Wonder just sort of washes over me as I pick my way through these ruins and walk over stone paths that Socrates, Plato and our other toga clad, olive leaf crowned ancestors walked. I could stay at these sites for hours, time traveling.

One Lovely Blog Award

2010-11-02T00:33:00.001-07:00

I received this wonderful award from Hege over at Cloudberry.

I always love seeing her photo's of the beautiful Norwegian countryside and her skilled knitting. What an honor to receive it! I now get to select 15 newer blogs I've discovered to pass the Award Love on to. So! Without further ado, here, for your reading and viewing pleasure are some notably lovely blogs:

1 Living and Knitting on a Maine Island: Welcome to Frenchboro!

okay, this girl is flat out funny. I get such joy out of her posts that take such simple everyday events and put a humorous twist on them. It's her humor and personality that get you - and also probably make survival on a small island possible!

2 Head Full of Glitter

creative writing by a fellow nurse and good friend who writes her heart and will steal yours away as you read

3 Knit n Run

Lauren's writing of her family and running is genuine and warm. I enjoy every post.

4 Serenknitty

Yummy recipes, beautiful photographs, and O.M.Gee, the Yarn!

5 Sunday Hot Pants

Mouth watering recipes from New Zealand with amazing photography

6 Wool and Cotton

I love seeing her gorgeous knit items and her photography is lovely. In both English and Greek!

7 The H is Silent

Beautiful knitwear, yummy recipes and a new baby to cyber-snuggle

8 Short Attention Span Theatre

Ria never fails to come up with interesting posts. She really makes me think

AWARD RULES:

Grab the award. Post it on your blog with the name of the person who has granted the award and his or her blog link, then pay it forward to 15 other bloggers that you have newly discovered and contact those blog owners and let them know they've been chosen.

Hands in the Dishwater, Head in the Clouds

2010-10-14T23:53:00.000-07:00

When I did the breakfast dishes this morning, I noticed that I can open my casement window wide and let the cool morning air into my kitchen. There's no screens, but strangely, I haven't seen any flying bugs either. They must be being polite, giving me a break from ordinary buginess.

Everything still feels extradordinary to me here in Athens, so I appreciate the respite. I'm sure I'll become disenchanted at some point - but for now I'm enjoying all the newness - the plans for the days we'll spend traveling, the making of new friends, the surprising adventure of simple tasks: like finding a grocery store, learning from a patient waitress the greek words for avocados with vinegarette, avocados me vinegarette! and which buttons to press to buy tickets for the metro. It's all surprising and wonderfully new. The discovery is delicious.

Tea Leaves, again

2010-10-03T19:22:00.000-07:00

Next oldest Granddaughter received my second version of the Tiny Tea Leaves Cardi this week and pronounced it perfect. (My Grandgirls are so grateful and easy to please that they're an absolute pleasure to knit for)

I thought this came out just a touch on the large size under the arms. I could have went with a smaller size for her, although I added several inches to the length of both sleeves and body to fit her lanky frame. Modifications detailed on my Ravelry Project Page

I've enjoyed this pattern and after two successful sweaters, I've definately gotten my money's worth, but there's still one more in the works for oldest Grandgirl. I'll have to buy the adult pattern for that beanstalk of a child who has surpassed me in both height and shoe size.
These girls sure make Grandma's knitting look good.

I'm Baaaack!

2010-09-27T11:53:00.000-07:00

Alrighty then! Thirty minutes of running. 10 minute/2 minute run/walk intervals X 3. May not seem like much, but for as long as I've been not running - it feels like a real victory.

Even got new shoes to celebrate. Now it's time to ice the shin splints.
:-D

Tying Up Loose Ends

2010-09-23T08:57:00.000-07:00

I've been packing up my life into neat little piles. Some I can take along with me, but most will take the slow route by ship.

I found it interesting that I've managed to stack what will be my entire household overseas into one side of my bedroom here. (Not counting furniture, of course, which is included with our apartment)

I'd like to say this is because I'm simplifying my life and all that jazz, but the truth is - this happens everytime I move. I just throw alot of stuff away that I haven't even noticed has outgrown it's usefullness until I poke around in drawers and closets that haven't seen the light of day in years.

You'd be surprised how challenging it can be to pack everything you'd need for 6 weeks into this amount of space.

There's three months of personal entertainment contained in my messenger bag.

And, last - but certainly not least - my next three months of knitting.

We're just awaiting the movers.

A Slow Start

2010-09-09T09:00:00.000-07:00

Happily, I'm back with the running again. I'm not even sure what made me stop, though I'll admit, I always find inactivity easier than physically difficult things. Despite the laws of physics, this object given any break in motion tends to stay square on the couch, with her feet up and some knitting in her lap.

It was a good feeling, though - being fit. My energy level was high. I'd face a new day with square shoulders and enthusiasm. I could run the empty shopping cart all the way back to the store entrance, rather than leaving it crookedly abandoned in the adjacent parking space. And running those half marathons! What a kick that was! In a way, I'd say it sort of changed my view of myself. I realized then that I could do any single thing I set my mind to. I stopped saying "I can't". I stopped even thinking it.

Being the Queen of Denial, and being quite busy these days preparing for a move - it's easy to breeze past my need for exercise, to put it on the back burner to do later. But this time I'm not going to do that. It's past time to start the slow slog of gaining fitness. I'm not saying it's easy. There's lots of sweating, huffing and puffing, and soreness. And there's this sort of akward lost feeling until I find my exercise routine. I weave around the gym machines in indecision. I can't find the abs machine I used to use. There's someone on my usual treadmill - the one beneath the fan. I don't want to lift any weights in front of that young, cute guy. And I forgot my towel. :-/

One of the benefits of blogging is how it keeps your goals right in front of your face. It makes you accountable. In the blog world - you can celebrate your personal victories, you can joke about your fails. You can have some company along the way. So, I'm using my blog for accountability. It's the best running partner ever. I'd rather run than explain why I haven't. Even if it's only explaining to myself - in writing. I'm up to 6 min/2 min run walk intervals x 5.

P.S. : If anyone reading this is interested in starting to run, it's important to start slow. Your bones, muscles, heart and lungs have to build up gradually. The Running 101 program is the one I use.
You'll think you can do more. Don't!
ask me how I know this
Oh, and run slower than you think you should. Even slower than that. You'll get there.

Annis = Satisfaction

2010-09-07T09:01:00.000-07:00

I just recently came across an interesting tidbit of information. Did you know that the word Annis is a female name of Greek origin meaning Satisfaction?

Have you heard of the term Synchronicity?

Well, that's what this project is: a meaningful coincidence, startling serendipity! Like a comment from the universe on my move to Greece - I love it when I'm graced with such.

This shawl is one of my favorite things I've ever knitted. It's scarfy crescent shape makes it so much more wearable for me than a triangle shawl. Although it was a labor intensive knit, the result is perfect. My Ravelry Project Page reflects the few modifications I made.

When my Granddaughter Jade modeled for this picture she told me, "Grandma, I feel like a Princess in this shawl!
But it was the shawl that was so lucky to be draped on such beauty, I thought.
I am so lucky.
I am so satisfied.

My eyes brimmed as I framed my amazingly lovely Granddaughters in the viewfinder, making it difficult to get sharp pictures. In every way, they are beyond beautiful.

Beads and Short Rows and Lace, Oh My!

2010-09-02T14:10:00.001-07:00

I've admired this Annis pattern like a lovesick middle schooler ever since it came out, but only recently discovered a yarn in my stash that was worthy. On several occasions, I'd dug and dug deep into my stash and then....Oh yes.

The Estelle Cadenza, sent to me by a faraway friend. It's silky, saturated, uh-huh - even sensual. I proclaimed it the one.

Even better - once I brought out the skein, I realized that it matched a pretty silky dress I'd yet to wear. I'd been saving it for a party or a special dinner out. The match - absolute perfection. The dress, the shawl - you can even see the earrings another friend made just for me. The perfect ensemble. I had a plan.

Then came the knitting. Now I know lots of people have written how easy this pattern is and how quickly it knit up. So. many. people.

I can't say I really understand why it's taken me 60 days just to get through 18 rows of lace, but it has.

Lace isn't relaxing knitting for me. It takes me over. I need a stone quiet home, with no interruptions. I knit sitting all bent over my needles, counting furiously and tensely making little notes. I have to take my lace knitting in small doses.

Here's my reward: It's coming around, this lovely little shawl. I've started the short rows - no doubt it will virtually knit itself.

Peachy!

2010-08-30T16:17:00.001-07:00

I've been eating one of these every single day this week.

A sliced up peach - nicely ripe, topped with a dollop of plain yogurt and a drizzle of honey. Dusted with allspice. Yum! This peach time is a most excellent time of year.

A Simple Swap

2010-08-25T06:58:00.001-07:00

Those of you who participate in swaps know the joy of filling a swap box with goodies for another crafter. Making the package is often as enjoyable as receiving one. I find swapping so fun because it's like getting a shopping trip with a friend who knows you. While the sender tries to send things you'll like, she also can't help but put her own spin on it. I've discovered some fabulous items that I never would have known about otherwise.

Our My Other Hobby Swap Group on Ravelry recently hosted a simple swap in which the sender could only select 3 items for their partner. This was truly challenging because each item had to count and contribute a significant amount of joy in order for the package to be a success. You couldn't rely on volume if you weren't sure what she'd like. It seemed alot more important to do some quality stalking.

Here's the fabulous package I received from Melanie, wtrmlni on Ravelry:

I absolutely love the selections she made for me! I've already spent quite a few happy hours browsing the book, Socks from the Toe Up by Wendy D Johnson and have some serious sock knitting plans in place. I've made one pair of toe up socks before, but what I love about this book is the amount of information relating to basic toe up sock techniques. I like the idea of getting a good understanding of the process.

The yarn: well - as you can see, it's gorgeous! Those purpley, greeney blues. :sigh: I've not seen that colorway before and I'm excited to try it out. Melanie said she saw it knit into a beautiful scarf and that's what drew her to it.

And finally, my partner sewed me a dpn holder/organizer. Although I have one I received in a previous swap that I love - I had jammed it so full of dpn's that I still couldn't find what I needed, so this was a very welcome item. She did a beautiful job on it and I simply love it. I use it exclusively for my sock dpn's.

Yep, this is what organization looks like.

Airplane Knitting

2010-08-23T09:38:00.001-07:00

I love going places. I just spent an enjoyable week in Washington D.C. My husband worked each day, but I was a lone tourist. I rode the metro everywhere and walked through countless museums. It was alternately opressively hot/humid and cool/wet. I liked the wet because I don't get much of that here. With my pop up umbrella and loaded metro pass, I was invincible, though my hair was really, really unruly. My hair only behaves in the dry desert and this was.... the opposite of that. I bought a baseball cap.

A Phoenix to Washington air flight gives you four long hours of audio book listening, knitting nirvana. Appropriately, I made travel socks that I can wear on my next flight. I'm thinking that will be a looong one - over the ocean to our new overseas home. Fourteen hours, I've heard! (Think of the ambitious project I can attempt on that trip!) I like the idea of being able to slip these on easily to avoid going barefoot through security once I take off my sandals, and for comfort on the plane as well.

These are great little socks. The pattern: Turkish Bed Socks. It caught my eye when I saw a display of dozens of these knit up in the wonderful shop on Bainbridge Island that I visited on vacation last year. I bought the skein of koigu there and have been intending to make them since. They kept being put aside for other projects I was making for other people, but now that I promised myself that I'd take care of myself first, these seemed like a perfect little project to kick off some wonderfully selfish knitting. They knit up so quickly that I completed one on the way to Washington.
I might even do some Christmas knitting with this pattern. I just can't imagine who wouldn't love them.

Aches and Pains

2010-08-14T22:48:00.000-07:00

Did I tell you my neck is killing me? After several months of this, a consult with my M.D. got me some time with a physical therapist and she recommended using heat and cold to stimulate circulation to the painful area. I remembered seeing something about handmade microwave and freezer therapy bags, made out of muslin, filled with beans, corn or rice.

With a little internet investigation, I found a nice tutorial at Sew Mama Sew and made myself my own little therapy bag and case. In fact, I made two. One for the microwave and one I put in a gallon ziplock bag and stored in the freezer.

Mine are filled with pinto beans, because that's what I had on hand. I like the weight of the beans and they hold the heat for about 30 minutes after only 2 minutes in the microwave. I think the little pillowcase is an excellent idea for these, since it acts as insulation between hot spots that may be in the beans (or other filler), after microwave heating and your tender skin. I wouldn't use mine without it. I made my bags 7" x 11" and filled them with about 3 cups of beans.

This is a perfect first selfish project for myself. I'm using heat and cold therapy, along with anti-inflammatories, stretches and strengthening exercises 3 times daily to heal my sore neck and shoulder. Consistency is the key. I'll let you know how it goes...

A Journey of Change

2010-08-14T06:46:00.000-07:00

Although I've been looking forward to change over the past year, anticipating it and actually doing it are two different things, I've found. Here it is on my doorstep.

Knock, knock
Hello?
Hello. Everything's changed. Welcome to your new world. Pending international move of household, Goodbye to your fabulously stable job of 6 years, Goodbye to your known culture and surroundings. Goodbye to your family and friends.

Hi new world. :-) You seem like quite the adventure. I have many expectations of you, but here's my top two:

1.) Decreased stress
2.) Increased self care

A couple of years ago, I took much better care of me. I could run a half marathon. I was flexible and lithe because I practiced yoga regularly. I ate well. My weight was optimal.

I'm not sure exactly how this happened, but my health has changed. When I wasn't looking, my fitness degraded, along with my flexibility and motivation. Now my neck and shoulder hurt. My neck pops when I turn my head. I'm unhappy with my weight. I'm tired of cooking, so I make the same thing over and over for dinner, or go out to eat. I buy lunch at work rather than take it. I spend my days off lying around the house because I'm exhausted.

I've noticed for awhile now that I do alot for others and so little for myself. I'm well aware that if I want a healthful future, this must change. It may take a whole lot of selfish to get myself in the habit of putting myself first. This post starts a year long project of intent to improve my life. I'm going to have alot of fun doing it, too.

Doesn't this sound like a fun project?

Welcome to Project "It's all about ME"

Want to join me? We can do it in the name of a better quality of life and feel absolutely vindicated about doing stuff for ourselves alone. Pedicures. Exercise. Massage. Naps. Selfish knitting and sewing. Time for exploration and play. Reading. Writing. Journaling. Healthful cooking. Gifts to ourselves. If you'd like to join in, comment here and I'll make a sidebar link to the blogs of those involved so I can be inspired by your self care projects as well.

Now, I'm not saying I won't make things for my family or be kind and giving to others. I just won't let it take every bit of my free time. I'll put myself first.

I will.

You?

Yes to Tea Leaves!

2010-07-27T07:46:00.000-07:00

I enjoyed knitting the Tiny Tea Leaves Cardigan. For my first real sweater, it went well - not nearly as scarey as I'd anticipated. I do have questions about how I can avoid the little holes created where the sleeves meet the body. Must investigate. Tips welcome!

The only modification I made was to make long instead of three quarter length sleeves. I'd like my Granddaughter to be able to wear this as an outdoor sweater to throw on over her school clothes. Oh yes - I changed the length between the button holes as well. I didn't like the large gap between the two buttons, so I decreased the stitches between button holes to 10, then added two more buttons. It just seems more balanced to me this way.

So! I made it through my first sweater and actually enjoyed the process, as well as the finished object. Much easier than I ever would have guessed. Of course, a good basic pattern helps. Next oldest Granddaughter is asking when hers will be done. I'm casting on even as we speak in fuschia pink! I am a sweater knitter. Or at least a Tiny Tea Leaves Cardigan knitter. Pretty cool.

What I Wish I Could Put On a Care Label

2010-07-26T08:15:00.001-07:00

Dear Daughter,

I know you have the impression that socks are inexpensive, easily obtained items, but these I’m presenting to you are very special socks – magical, in a sense. Each hour spent knitting them were spent with Mom thinking of you, daydreaming about how you might wear them and how they would improve your life and add comfort to your tired, chilly feet. They’re infused with Mom’s best intentions, and loving regard for you. When you pull on these love drenched socks, your soul, along with your feet will be warmed and comforted. They’re made of a high quality wool, blended with nylon for long wearing. Your Mom dyed this yarn with Easter Egg dye tablets in her crock pot in her kitchen. When she saw the color, she knew they had to become socks for you because the delicious shade of green, along with the blues reminded her of the cool Washington forest and the drizzling raindrops you long to experience again.

Care: This wool is machine washable. However, your Mom spent many hours with her smeary bifocals perched on the end of her nose, creating these socks with little tiny stitches on toothpick sized needles. You'll worry that if they were thrown in the washing machine, one might get lost or mangled by a nearby zipper. Because you’ll treasure all your Mom’s hard work, you’ll more likely want to wash these by hand, in the sink by swishing them through soapy water, rinsing, then shaping them out on a towel to dry. Shampoo works nicely to wash them with. After all, wool is simply sheep hair, is it not?

You may wear these in shoes, or simply around the house on chilly days because I assure you, my cotton loving, southwestern raised, wool naïve daughter - your feet have never been more toasty than they will be wrapped in wool on a cold day. I hope you enjoy them just a fraction as much as I enjoyed creating them for you.

All my love, daughter. Always.

The Lord of the Rings

2010-07-19T20:47:00.000-07:00

This beautiful yarn is called Tolkien. It was part of my package in the recent kit swap organized in the My Other Hobby Swap group on Ravelry. There's a fun bunch of people there. Lots of talented, ultra crafty people who do various other hobbies besides knitting and crochet. Just off the top of my head, I can think of basketweaving, card making, scrapbooking, spinning, jewelry making, dyeing, pottery, quilting, mixed media, and oil painting for heaven's sake.

This is a fun group to belong to because one of the features of every swap is that your package must include something you make for your partner using your other hobby. Given the varied things people do - you never know what sorts of wonderful things you might receive!

My partner, Lauren - Lolabella on Ravelry, sews and makes jewelry, so I was lucky enough to get some really cool things including two sewn items - one of them a bag, (and you know how I love bags!) She picked a fabric that on sight made my heart go thumpity thump. A super cute folk artsy leaf and tree pattern fabric from which she made both a sling bag and a much needed dpn needle roll. She even stamped leaves on the interior fabric using a stamp she carved from a potato! Talk about crafty!

The Tolkien yarn, forest-y fabric, and even the tiny little sterling and copper ring stitch markers screamed the Lord of the Rings. She also included the Aestlight Shawl pattern - one I've wanted to add to my knitted wardrobe since I first saw it. What a pleasure this will be to knit now - with the theme of this classic trilogy running through the rows. I'm so taken with the theme that I'm going to listen to the story on audiobook as I knit. An old beloved tale knit into a wonderful new shawl. Thanks to my English pal Lauren, I'll enjoy every stitch. That girl sure knows how to rock a theme!

Official Summer Knitting

2010-06-03T10:28:00.000-07:00

June seems to me to be summer. I'm not sure of the official summer commencement date, but to me - it's June, so I'm starting my summer knitting. This really means Back to School, or Fall knitting since I seem to knit in advance of the season to come. (Except for socks, which I knit all the time because I love them)

I missed making a pair of socks for May. I started Cookie A's Mystery Sock with the Sock Knitter's Anonymous Group on Ravelry, but stumbled so badly on it that I lost all the joy of it and abandoned the project. June, however, is a new month and I've cast on a pair of Komets by Stephanie van der Linden.

I'm using that sock yarn I overdyed with Easter egg dye tablets the month before last. I love how it looks knit up, which makes me itch to get back to the dye pot too.

Another project I've been thinking about for some time is some scarey sweater knitting. I'm thinking of my Granddaughters going back to school and this is coinciding with a desire to get some sweater knitting experience. There's so many lovely patterns that have been piling up in my Ravelry queue. But here's the winner for Grandgirl knitting:

Tiny Tea Leaves Cardi.

It just seems cuter than cute to me to have a mini Tea Leaves pattern available, and although I haven't ever knit the full sized Tea Leaves Cardigan, I'm working up to it. As a rule, I like to start small and build. As result, the Granddaughters are getting little versions of the sweater Grandma Julie wants.

Being a realistic and practical person - I understand that these sweaters will not get the care a knitter might hope for. They'll be tossed into the corners of bedrooms, partially zipped into backpacks with the sleeves trailing on the ground, and other such offenses. Knowing this, I looked for an easy care yarn - soft against the skin, (because they'd never actually wear anything 'itchy' or 'scratchy'), and able to be washed and dried in the machine.

I found some Washable Wool by Moda Dea. Discontinued, and available in limited colors - I nonetheless found some that would work. Though the tangerine color arrived eye searingly bright, a dunk in a watery brown dye wash dulled it down to a rusty orange that I like quite alot. The price for an entire sweater for the 11 year old? Eight dollars. Yes! I've made my way through the first couple skeins.

Wish me luck.

Where did you go, May?

2010-05-24T07:23:00.000-07:00

It's hard to believe this entire month got away from me without a single post. Maybe I did bite off more than I could chew, with a test knit for a lacey swim wrap
that caught my eye. I really couldn't resist this one. The pattern photo showed a girl on the beach with this draped around her hips.

I went to immediate dream sequence:
Me. Walking barefoot in the sand, Greek waters caressing my toes, the warm sun on my shoulders.
Then my practical side reminded me of all the sins this lovely wrap could hide on the beach. That sealed the deal and I asked the designer if I could test her pattern. It hardly needed any work, to be clear. The pattern was quite well written and polished. Andrea is quite the professional designer.

Then there was the knit along with the My Other Hobby Swap Group on Ravelry. For the Selfish KAL, I finally made a long wished for Citron.

I love this little ruffled scarf. It converts into a light little shoulder shawl, where it lays nicely without having to be pinned.

The yarn I used was from Oddish Creations. Her hand dyed yarns are amazing and create lovely little points of color in the finished knitting.

A group of knitters on Ravelry put together a baby blanket this month for a Ravelry friend who's expecting. I collected the squares and joined them. You haven't lived until you've done 3 feet of kitchener stitch - I assure you! But the result is lovely and bright and the Mom to be loved it. And sharing the knitting love is what it's all about, right?

Then there were the Mother's Day Monkey socks. They did get completed, Mom got them in time and they fit! .Ravelry Project Page

So, that was May - a productive month that went so fast, it almost got away

Colorplay with Easter Egg Dyes

2010-04-22T11:01:00.000-07:00

I hate to let this month slip away without showing the fun I've been having with Easter Egg dyes. I would have never guessed that those little tabs and a bottle of vinegar could make such pretty yarn colors.

This first is the result of handpainting a skein of natural colored sport weight yarn with a mix of blue and green tabs, and a mix of the orange and yellow.

I toned the whole thing down with a dilute mix of Wilton brown in invisible koolaid. Wrapped up in plastic wrap and a few minutes of steam in the microwave created this loveliness.

This second yarn is an overdye that I did over a superwash wool sock yarn. I took the skein from this:

to this:

I used the crockpot, because I wanted a kettle dyed effect with a bit more color variation. I heated up enough water to cover the skein, introduced the yarn, then poured the dye into the water in different areas of the crockpot. Because the water was hot, the yarn took up the color in the area I poured it rather quickly.

I liked how the colors didn't mix and become muddy. I got distinct areas of color in different areas of the skein. However, even though I moved the skein around between pours, there were areas where the dye didn't reach and I had to lay the skein out and do a handpaint/ microwave steam to cover undyed areas afterwards.

I'll continue to experiment with this method to try to get the semisolid effects I'm hoping for.

Sock Reincarnation

2010-04-16T07:19:00.001-07:00

I knit a Jaywalker sock the first part of April. Wow, it took a LOT of stitches. Little tiny stitches on 2.25 mm dpn's.

Problem is, when I got done I wasn't crazy about the sock. I like stretchy, squishy socks that form around my foot with a reassuring little hugginess. This sock didn't do that. Although it fit reasonably well, it just didn't have enough give for my liking.

I couldn't get excited about knitting the second matching sock, and I didn't want to sacrifice the pretty Mybootee Boutique sock yarn to what was destined to become an abandoned UFO, so ..... Jaywalker went to the frog pond and a new Monkey joined the knitting at my house.

And although it's clear the lovely yarn wants to be a Monkey - it just doesn't want to be my Monkey. Despite much pulling and tugging over my heel and a healthy dose of knitterly denial - I have to face the fact that it is indeed too small for me.

Being a resourceful knitter, and unable to face the idea of once again frogging, I came up with a brilliant idea:

Mother's Day socks!
As luck would have it, My Mom has smaller, more delicate, feet than I do. And Mom - the woman who admired and displayed every childhood art project - she deserves some dang good knitting gifts.

Black Beans Dye Blue - Who Knew?

2010-04-14T07:50:00.000-07:00

If you've read this blog before, you'll know that I did a fun little natural dyeing experiment with black beans that gave me some gorgeous blue yarn. The question among the group of natural dyers doing this is "How colorfast and lightfast is this dye?" It hardly seems worth all the work to do the three step process of first mordanting the fiber, then soaking the beans to make the dye, then actually dyeing the fiber if it isn't going to hold its' color. (Think of all those dirty dishes!)

I made the yarn into a cozy pair of Blueberry Waffle Socks in March. I've worn them frequently since. They are my around the house, slipper sort of socks. They've already been washed a half dozen times - once in the washing machine/dryer, the rest dunked in the sink by hand with some baby shampoo. Between washes, they've mostly been draped out on an easy chair in my bedroom that's bright with natural light during the day. Sort of for experimental purposes and sort of because I'm lazy that way...

After 3 weeks of almost constant wear and light exposure- I see a little fading. Probably as much as you'd get with anything given that much use. For me - definately worthwhile to use this type of dyeing. Even on hard used items - once they've faded enough - you could dunk the whole thing in the dyepot again. I call this a successful experiment. And as a bonus, I've become very attached to my super comfy Black Bean Socks.

My New Coffee Knitter Friend in N.J.

2010-04-09T09:11:00.000-07:00

I recently made a new knitter friend. You can never have enough of these, in my opinion, 'cause knitters - well, they're just good people. And they know stuff. Stuff other knitters want to know. And they share! They share the stuff they know and they share the stuff they love.

Ria and I both love coffee. Tea too. We're caffinated knitting people and we were paired up in the Caffeine Addicts Group on Ravelry in their Spring Swap. We swapped packages of stuff we love, or at least thought the other would love and Ria hit the nail on the head. She knows how to put together a swap package.

I just love my new coffee cup. I use this cup only for coffee because - see that thing under it that most people might think is a coaster? Well, in my world, it's a lid and I have wished for a lid for my cup for some time and now I have it. I use it every morning.
This morning I also tried the first pot of the fabulous beans she sent from her neighborhood bakery/coffee shop and they make a delicious brew indeed.

Ria also sent me beautiful cotton yarn. It's Patagonia Nature Cotton in a lovely blue/green color. This is destined to be a Bazan by Jane Richmond. Aren't the teacup stitch markers clever? They're from Yarn Lust on etsy.

Ria also knitted a tea cozy just for me. It's a pretty blue-green and it's topped with adorable leaves. I do love leaves. I've never had a tea cozy before. I have the feeling it could become as important as coffee lids - you know, in keeping stuff that should be warm, warm

The package was packed with all sorts of treats, but one of the things I really got a kick out of was this postcard. Coffee coming through an IV, and I'm a nurse and I hang IV's and I love coffee and....well, it just cracked me up. So. Perfect.

And don't you just love people who make you laugh?

Another Recovery Day

2010-04-08T11:32:00.000-07:00

After a minor surgery, I have some time on my hands. It's a gift - this time for healing and recovery, with notning pressing to do. I'm not even supposed to drive. So athough it may be self indulgent to say so, it's definately a gift. I'm healing well, taking good care, going slow.

Today I'm sitting out on my back porch in a big comfy wicker chair where I can put my feet up. The weather is perfect - a light warm breeze is whispering through the leaves of the tangelo tree.

I have a new crochet project to start that I need to wind the yarn into balls for. No knitting deadlines to meet for once, which makes picking and starting new projects so enjoyable and relaxing.

I've set out the socks I made in March. Although I've worn and washed them several times, I never got around to weaving in the ends. (shhhhh!) I'll get it done sometime today. Maybe after a little nap.

My coworkers even sent me these beautiful flowers! I do feel loved.

Discovering the Pyramids

2010-04-04T08:26:00.001-07:00

In my neverending search for project bags, I happened to run across this cute little concept: The Pyramid Bag. I found an obscure little online diagram and set about trying to figure it out. I came up with my version, then someone shared this archived tutorial.

I had made mine much the same, except I set the zipper in differently. I found when the zipper went all the way across the edge, it didn't make for a nice finish at the top of the bag. Sewing the top together about 2 inches before the zipper made all the difference.

I also use a fusible heavyweight interfacing to make a sturdy bag. I much prefer that to the floppy look. These bags are about 8" x 8" and make the perfect sized sock project bag. A mini one would do well as a little notions pouch.

Little Easter Gifts for Little People

2010-03-29T06:12:00.001-07:00

My youngest Grandchildren, Ivy and Corey got knitted Easter gifts this year. I can't ever seem to get far enough ahead to make all the Easter goodies I'd like. I'm determined that one year I'll finally get to those cute knitted Easter Eggs by Little Cotton Rabbits.

The older girls were treated to a trip to the movies, but Ivy isn't quite old enough to sit still that long. However, she certainly can pose for the camera and if you're really fast, you just might manage a clear shot or two.

Here, Ivy is stunning in light blue cotton fastened with chunky wooden buttons. It's comfy and stylish and she loves showing off her new spring cardi. Pattern: Yoked Cardigan by Hannah Fetig. Ravelry Project Page

I didn't think 6 month old Corey would appreciate a sweater as much as he'd like something to chew on. He's in that teething stage and baths are one of his favorite things, so I knit up a few of Rebecca Danger's cotton Monster Chunks and stacked them in a knitted mesh bag for ease of washing. (Picture the entire bundle thrown in the washing machine - no muss, no fuss). Ravelry Project Page

I stuffed the little critters with sponges so they'd be suitable for swimming in the tub with Corey. Mom and Dad reports that he loves them. And truly - what more could a Grandma want?

Stash Happy

2010-03-01T05:52:00.000-08:00

I pulled it all out - the sock yarn that is, and piled it on the floor for a photo session. Seeing what I had versus having it all tucked away out of sight enlightened me. I have enough sock yarn to make 30 pairs of socks.

Honestly, 30 pairs seems a bit daunting to me. Even if I knit a pair every month, it'd take me over two years to burn through this little stash I've already accumulated in this first year on Ravelry. I could disperse some in the swaps I participate in, but there's not even one skein I'd feel happy about parting with. Not one. I love my sock yarn.

I'd better get to knittin'.

Ravelympic Victory!

2010-02-25T19:21:00.000-08:00

I finished the project and came in under my goal time. Now, not only do I have these great new cushy socks, but I've earned the title of Ravelathlete. Behold the coveted Finisher's Medal for the Sock Hockey Event:

Knit on for Victory!

Olympic Sock Knitting

2010-02-18T10:27:00.000-08:00

I'm chugging along on my Ravelympics project. Fingering weight socks on 2.25 mm needles in 17 days. Yeah. What was I thinking?

I've long admired these Hedgerow Socks. I like the feel of a sock that hugs my foot and these improve on a basic k4 p2 ribbing with an interesting pattern that makes me think of neat little rows lined up in a garden. (I'm still brainstorming a suitably clever, garden-y type name).

I'm using Needle Food Sock yarn in the Sweet Chilli colorway. This yarn brought it's squooshy little self all the way from New Zealand to live with me. Well, to be accurate, a Ravelry friend Lisa helped it on its' way packed in a beautiful red and white themed swap package. I've found it almost impossible to recreate the true colors in digital photography - the red/pink/orange variations are much deeper and richer than the picture reflects. Add the yarn's squoosh factor to the bouncey, stretchy ribs of the project and it's a true joy to knit. The simplicity of the pattern allows me to memorize it so I can actually watch some Olympics too. Good stuff.

Soooo...I've turned the heel and am decreasing the gussets, alternating between the two socks on dpn's so they stay close to each other in progress. It's sort of like hitting the 7 mile mark in the half marathon. I'm beginning to fight to keep my motivation. I need a refresher. Other projects are calling to me, giving me excuses to think about quitting.

But no. I can do this. I've got my eye on the finisher's medal.

Party Cupcakes

2010-02-13T06:30:00.000-08:00

For some reason I can't explain, I'm intrigued by the idea of edible yarn - colors I can combine to remind me of some sort of food. Maybe it's because I'm using food safe colors: koolaid and Wilton's icing dyes. At any rate, it's fun, and gives the fiber enthusiast some instant gratification. I can burn through quite a bit of yarn this way. Check out this eye candy of a tutorial at Kathryn Ivy for using Easter Egg Dyes. I'll be stocking up next month to give that a try.

This is my Valentine's yarn. I created it for a tea party swap, thinking of the colorful party cupcakes in the grocery store bakery section. I used both koolaid and Wilton's. If you dyed any Valentine yarn this month, please share! I'd love to have a look - I'm just such a sucker for a project theme.

The World Is What You Are

2010-02-10T14:21:00.000-08:00

The world is a great mirror. It reflects back to you what you are. If you are loving, if you are friendly, if you are helpful, the world will prove loving and friendly and helpful to you. The world is what you are.

- Thomas Dreier

Photo by Kristina Rogova

Stirring Up Color in the Kitchen

2010-01-24T06:58:00.000-08:00

I've had the best time experimenting with natural dyes lately. I'm talking natural dyes that come from plants. The yarns above are dyed with, (left to right), coffee, pomegranate hulls and black beans. I've learned about the how's of natural dyeing by poking around at various sites and the process is pretty straight forward.

1. MORDANT your wool with alum and cream of tartar. (Must be protein based fiber such as wool, alpaca and silk. Cotton and plant based fibers require different mordants). I used 1 Tablespoon + 2 teaspoons of Alum and 2 teaspoons of Cream of Tartar to 4 ounces (about 100 grams) of wool.

Mordanting sounds so scientific, but it's simply the act of heating your wool in a pot of water that contains the dissolved mordants for a period of time, then allowing it to cool and soak for 12 hours or so. I bought my mordants at
Dharma Trading Company and found some good step by step directions at Earth Guild. This site contains some good detailed information regarding cautions with mordants and the process required to avoid damaging your wool.

2. EXTRACT your chosen dye. This process depends upon the plant you're using. You'll find instructions for the amount of plant material to use indicated as % WOG, which means percentage of weight of goods or in this case, fiber to be dyed.

With the coffee, I used 100% WOG, (or 100 grams coffee grounds to my 100 grams of wool sock yarn). I extracted the dye by simmering the grounds in water in my crockpot overnight, then prepared it for the mordanted wool by pouring the solution through floursack tea towels several times. This removed much of the oil as well as the coffee grounds.
With the pomegranate, I used at least 200% WOG of pomegranate hulls, chopped up and simmered the hulls for several hours.
The black bean dye was created by soaking two pounds of dried black beans in room temperature filtered water for 48 hours. I didn't heat them at all and have read that others have gotten different, lighter colors when the bean water is heated. You can read of others natural dye results in the Ravelry Plants to Dye For group.

3. IMMERSE your fiber in the dye for a period of time. Both the pomegranate and coffee dyes were heated with the fiber similar to the heating involved in mordanting, but the blue of the beans were obtained by just a prolonged soaking at room temperature. My bean wool soaked for about 48 hours to get the dark blue color you see.

Afterwards, I rinsed the skeins in cool water, pressed the water out and allowed them to hang to air dry. I'll follow up to let you know how color fast these yarns turn out to be. I'm concerned about the bean skeins, which rinsed totally clear, but left a pink stain on a white towel the skeins sat in for a period of time before hanging to dry. We'll see...

This pomegranate dyed skein is not superwash, and I've noticed that superwash wools take up much more intense colors. I also didn't use a mordant on this one, since I've read that pomegranate itself is used as a mordant. When I do this again, I'll try it with a mordant and on superwash yarn to see what I get. The experientation possibilities and permutations are wide open.

More Mojo for Chris

2010-01-18T15:37:00.000-08:00

My brother is an artist. He makes beautiful things from wood. He's gifted many of his handmade originals to me and I treasure them.

When I received the lovely inlaid cutting board he gave me for Christmas this year, I thought I wanted to make something for him also. I found the perfect yarn, and thought this pattern seemed just right. Mojo My brother has it. He makes me laugh and if I ever really need someone to talk to, he gets me. He definately has the woodworking mojo, so I thought this pattern was fitting.

I call them Mesquite Mojo. For Chris. A really great brother.

Because I don't have enough colorful little cloth bags

2010-01-08T14:17:00.000-08:00

I'm always on the lookout for more.

It seems like I could always use another for that new scarf I started, to protect the extra special yarn from dust, or to tuck all the odd leftover balls of sock yarn in. Besides, they just plain make me happy.

I've seen tutorials for those boxy bags online and have wanted to make some. I've admired them. (I got one for my Birthday this last year from a Ravelry friend!) But I haven't ventured to make one because they look hard to do, don't they?

They're not. Not at all. Easy as pie, and if you don't believe me, check out some of the tutorials yourself, both here and here. These both have excellent explanations of the process. I made a couple myself today.

Mine are lined with coordinating fabric:

I added handles to tote them around, and little pull tabs to make them easier to zip and unzip:

I really liked adding these to my collection. It's possible that I may knit just so I have an excuse to make and collect more colorful little cloth bags.

Goodbye 2009

2010-01-01T07:02:00.001-08:00

Goodbye Christmas Tree.

I loved our cozy evenings, sitting in my easy chair with my feet up on the coffee table sipping wine. Something about your lights made my mind float freely. You made the close of 2009 so special, but once again our time together has come to an end. I've put you away for another year.

So sad to say Goodbye.

Button Up your Cup

2009-12-28T19:05:00.000-08:00

This pattern has been simplified and moved to our new blog at:

♥ See you there!

First 2010 Project

2009-12-28T09:43:00.001-08:00

I've spent more than a few pleasurable hours in these days after the Holiday rush planning my 2010 knitting. I believe most knitters enjoy the planning part of the process the most. That 'thinking' part in which everything goes perfect, each project is completed on schedule and shapes up just as the knitter had imagined. It happens so rarely in real life, but delivers every single time in the planning stage.

This Cashsilk Fern Lace scarf was started back in 2009 sometime. Dozens of projects have been completed in the meantime, but still it sits on the needles waiting its' turn. I avoided it because it frustrated me. Between the start of this scarf and now, I've learned what I needed to know so I can begin again.

When Grandma taught me to knit, she was teaching me some basic flat knitting in the Russian method. It had never occurred to me that I couldn't knit that way in the round, or that I'd have to make adjustments in the way I created my stitches with lace if I wanted to follow current patterns. Heck, I didn't even know it was different - it was just knitting to me. But mine didn't look like the patterns promised. Thankfully, the internet provided some answers.

I've learned that there are many ways to knit. I can now adjust my old knitting style to today's real world and make the results look as the pattern designer intended. I can avoid twisting my stitches, (unless I want to!) One of the more helpful resources for me were the Russian Knitting Technique group on Ravelry. I also gleaned some information from Annie Modesitt's site regarding combination knitting.

So going back to this scarf is much less frustrating now. I may have to rip back to correct some decreases, but I'm clear on how to do that now because I'm a bit more skilled this year than last and that my friends, is progress.

Welcome to 2010. Here's to greeting the New Year with a little more knowledge than last. (clink!)

Christmas Jelly

2009-12-23T19:38:00.000-08:00

When my kids were growing up, we had several pomegranate bushes in our backyard. Although we tried to make good use of the fruit, we couldn't really make a dent in the deluge of ripening fruits each November/December. That is, until I discovered a recipe in Rosalind Creasy's The Complete Book of Edible Landscaping for Pomegranate Jelly.

I made jars and jars of it for many years, so my kids remember this as a yearly treat around the Holidays.

We've long since moved from my kids' childhood home, but a couple of years ago, I planted pomegranate bushes in the home I live in now - just so I could again make some of that lovely jelly. I managed six jars this first year of fruiting and it's every bit as good as I'd remembered. Sweet, but tart too with a distinctive tang. My Granddaughter's tasted it for the first time this year and genetics being what they are, they raved over it and declared it a favorite, just as their Mom had over 2 decades before.

I found another recipe online that makes a delicious Pomegranate Jelly , although I like to cut the sugar to 4 1/2 cups so it's a little more tangy than sweet. It always makes me feel so clever to capture that transluscent red tanginess in a jar.

Happy Pomegranate Days!