Well my peeps, another year is coming to a close. It has been a hectic year in some ways, and a relaxing year in others. Gotta love the roller coaster ride of life!
I took a look back at my entry from last New Year's Eve, and I was very disappointed in myself. This is what I wrote:
I want 2008 to be the "year of peace". Of course I want world peace - don't be silly - but I really want to strive to be at peace with myself. We care all critical of ourselves in some way, I just want to try to minimize the criticism I lay on myself. I get enough of that crap from other people at work. To that end, I will try to go to the gym regularly, and therefore feel like I am making progress on my physical outlook. I will take better care of my kidneys. I really want to start evaluating why I choose to do things. I want to choose events to attend, projects to design, and even what to eat for dinner based on what I want, not on what I'm expected to do. My 2008 goal is to be happy in my skin and thankful for having the skin to be in.
Part of being at peace will be to keep learning and experiencing, like always. When I "pull up the learnin' stool" this year I want to come away with at least one Intarsia project, finish poor DH's Sweater of Doom, enter a lace piece in a fair, and learn to use the weight machines at the gym. I still want to go to Vermont. I want to continue to develop existing friendships and maybe create some new ones. Maybe this year I'll cross to the dark side and try spinning on a wheel!
ok. I did good at the first paragraph. I really feel like I've made progress in all of those areas. I haven't been perfect, but nobody is perfect. The second paragraph, however, I didn't do so well at. I went to Vermont, made some new friends, made tighter bonds with existing friends, I learned to use the weight machines at the gym, and um.... that's it. No Lace project entry. No Intarsia. The sweater is still in the bag, unfinished. No spinning wheel spinning either. Sigh.
On that note, why bother makng resolutions? I suppose it's to at least partially motivate us to do well and be better people. SO once again, I will make a list. Once again, I will try to accomplish the things on my list. Maybe this time I will succeed...
In 2009 I want to:
* Do a freaking Intarsia project
* Keep participating in Socktopia
* Go to another place I've never been
* Deal with the falling apart furniture in my apartment
* Design a lace something for me
This is not a big list. I just be able to do it!
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Christmas Recap
I love going home to my parents' house! It's not because of the gifts, or the food - it's for the years worth of stories. This year was no exception in the story department!
My hand knits were well received, and much gushed over by a few specific people. I, or course, failed to get many FO with recipient pictures. I did get Mr. Ship with his socks though!
He is such a dork. Mr. Ship also received an "Emergency Jail Kit" since he is so "bad-ass". Included was a doo-rag, candy cigarettes, nail file/shiv, harmonica, metal cup, soap on a rope, "prison approved porn" (Victoria's Secret Catalog), and a mirror - among other things. Since we open our presents on Christmas Eve at about 1 am, the family is usually pretty slap happy by the time we get to the funny gifts. It isn't hard to get your brother to try on his Prison Survival Gear at 2am.
It also isn't hard to get your Dad to try on the "Learn to be a Princess" accessories from the joke gift you got your Mom.
Then you stop taking pictures because you are laughing so hard you think you might die when your other brother puts on his new "old fashioned" motorcycle goggles with his half helmet, that just happens to have a red Mohawk down the center. When the laughing subsides, you start to relive the evenings events for brother #1, since he was at his Fiance's house earlier. This year he missed going to Grandma R's. It is too bad because this year is the year my family decided to cause trouble.
Uncle Gene's family sits on the only couch in the basement every year. They ALWAYS sit on it. My family decided to see what would happen if we infiltrated the couch. Mom went first. Then I took another empty spot when one of them got up to get food. On and on it went. The whole night we were giggling like kids, gene's family was wandering around trying to decided what to do, and The rest of the people at the party were completely confused. You had to be there to truly appreciate the chaos we caused. It was great.
Now we are all wide awake, and our sides hurt from laughing, so we decided to make popcorn in Dad's new Popcorn cart. At 3am. Yep. All of us watched the second half of A Christmas Story and ate popcorn until 4am. Then we got the Christmas dinner ready so we could go to bed. Nothing beats sleeping in until 11am when guests are coming at noon! All we had to do was pop in the side dishes, The turkey was already cooking, all the sides were prepared to go in the oven, the potatoes needed to be cooked and mashed. It was awesome. Sleep deprivation makes everything funny - even Aunt Florence.
I received some very nice gifts this year, especially from Evad. He rocked the gift giving world with an Immersion Blender, an Aero Garden, and YARN! He also gave me two knitting books I have been lusting over - GlamKnits and Knitting Lace Triangles. Then the yarn kept coming! Princess Evangeline gave me yarn too! There is nothing like the scent of Christmas balls and cones!
The two cones of lace weight and the teal lace weight bison (!) yarn are from Evad. The rest is from Princess Evangeline. I am one lucky knitter!
All in all, we had a great Holiday this year. The gifts were great, but the laughs and fond memories will be what endures.
Till tomorrow!
My hand knits were well received, and much gushed over by a few specific people. I, or course, failed to get many FO with recipient pictures. I did get Mr. Ship with his socks though!
He is such a dork. Mr. Ship also received an "Emergency Jail Kit" since he is so "bad-ass". Included was a doo-rag, candy cigarettes, nail file/shiv, harmonica, metal cup, soap on a rope, "prison approved porn" (Victoria's Secret Catalog), and a mirror - among other things. Since we open our presents on Christmas Eve at about 1 am, the family is usually pretty slap happy by the time we get to the funny gifts. It isn't hard to get your brother to try on his Prison Survival Gear at 2am.
It also isn't hard to get your Dad to try on the "Learn to be a Princess" accessories from the joke gift you got your Mom.
Then you stop taking pictures because you are laughing so hard you think you might die when your other brother puts on his new "old fashioned" motorcycle goggles with his half helmet, that just happens to have a red Mohawk down the center. When the laughing subsides, you start to relive the evenings events for brother #1, since he was at his Fiance's house earlier. This year he missed going to Grandma R's. It is too bad because this year is the year my family decided to cause trouble.
Uncle Gene's family sits on the only couch in the basement every year. They ALWAYS sit on it. My family decided to see what would happen if we infiltrated the couch. Mom went first. Then I took another empty spot when one of them got up to get food. On and on it went. The whole night we were giggling like kids, gene's family was wandering around trying to decided what to do, and The rest of the people at the party were completely confused. You had to be there to truly appreciate the chaos we caused. It was great.
Now we are all wide awake, and our sides hurt from laughing, so we decided to make popcorn in Dad's new Popcorn cart. At 3am. Yep. All of us watched the second half of A Christmas Story and ate popcorn until 4am. Then we got the Christmas dinner ready so we could go to bed. Nothing beats sleeping in until 11am when guests are coming at noon! All we had to do was pop in the side dishes, The turkey was already cooking, all the sides were prepared to go in the oven, the potatoes needed to be cooked and mashed. It was awesome. Sleep deprivation makes everything funny - even Aunt Florence.
I received some very nice gifts this year, especially from Evad. He rocked the gift giving world with an Immersion Blender, an Aero Garden, and YARN! He also gave me two knitting books I have been lusting over - GlamKnits and Knitting Lace Triangles. Then the yarn kept coming! Princess Evangeline gave me yarn too! There is nothing like the scent of Christmas balls and cones!
The two cones of lace weight and the teal lace weight bison (!) yarn are from Evad. The rest is from Princess Evangeline. I am one lucky knitter!
All in all, we had a great Holiday this year. The gifts were great, but the laughs and fond memories will be what endures.
Till tomorrow!
Monday, December 29, 2008
2 Days late...
...with my last Christmas Gift. I almost made it. Oh well, better late than never I suppose!
Name: Colbert Socks
Pattern: Stephen Colbert Socks: The First Amendment as Expressed by Socks
Yarn: Fibranatura Yummy
Needles: KnitPicks classic Circs size 2
Notes: I knit these crazy socks for Evad. They were supposed to be for Christmas, but, I missed it. It's just how things go sometimes, I guess.
The pattern is really more of a "recipe" in which you cast on, work in 2x2 ribbing, and cable at will. You cable as much or as little as you want. Then you work a heel (or not. your choice), do the foot, then do a toe. I forgot the pattern when I got to my first heel so I made one up. Hey, these are my First Amendment socks!!
I am proud of myself that I managed to complete sock two with a relatively similar amount of cables to sock one, and didn't resort to just ribbing the whole damn thing. I think I am over the cable needle for a while.
When I saw this pattern in Mason Dixon Knitting Outside the Lines, I knew I HAD to knit it for Evad. He is majorly into politics, and loves the Colbert Report. The red yarn is a little subtle compared to the pumpkin orange ones I knit him last, but still vibrant enough for him, I think.
Now that I have knit two "man sized" socks in a row, I am eagerly awaiting my next pair of me sized socks. And the panic of "am I going to have enough to finish the second toe?" is soooo much less when knitting a pair of small women's socks. I squeaked in with this pair. I might have 10 yards left. That is plenty, but it is still a bit disconcerting when you are knitting away on the toe and wondering with every row wether you are going to make it.
I just realized how well travelled these socks are already! They have been to FL,CT, NY, PA, MA, and NJ. Huh. Pretty good for one pair of socks!
Up next, a Christmas update!
Name: Colbert Socks
Pattern: Stephen Colbert Socks: The First Amendment as Expressed by Socks
Yarn: Fibranatura Yummy
Needles: KnitPicks classic Circs size 2
Notes: I knit these crazy socks for Evad. They were supposed to be for Christmas, but, I missed it. It's just how things go sometimes, I guess.
The pattern is really more of a "recipe" in which you cast on, work in 2x2 ribbing, and cable at will. You cable as much or as little as you want. Then you work a heel (or not. your choice), do the foot, then do a toe. I forgot the pattern when I got to my first heel so I made one up. Hey, these are my First Amendment socks!!
I am proud of myself that I managed to complete sock two with a relatively similar amount of cables to sock one, and didn't resort to just ribbing the whole damn thing. I think I am over the cable needle for a while.
When I saw this pattern in Mason Dixon Knitting Outside the Lines, I knew I HAD to knit it for Evad. He is majorly into politics, and loves the Colbert Report. The red yarn is a little subtle compared to the pumpkin orange ones I knit him last, but still vibrant enough for him, I think.
Now that I have knit two "man sized" socks in a row, I am eagerly awaiting my next pair of me sized socks. And the panic of "am I going to have enough to finish the second toe?" is soooo much less when knitting a pair of small women's socks. I squeaked in with this pair. I might have 10 yards left. That is plenty, but it is still a bit disconcerting when you are knitting away on the toe and wondering with every row wether you are going to make it.
I just realized how well travelled these socks are already! They have been to FL,CT, NY, PA, MA, and NJ. Huh. Pretty good for one pair of socks!
Up next, a Christmas update!
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Packin' up gettin' ready to go
Packing up gettin ready to go. I'm packin up gettin ready to goooooo.
Don't know that song? It's in Black Nativity, if you so desire to hear it.
Anyway, Evad and I are packing the car, shortly, to leave to PA. I'll attempt to take some "FO on recipient" pictures while I'm there. I'm bad with the pics though - as ya'll know.
Happy Holidays everyone! Drive safe! Be kind to your fellow man!
Don't know that song? It's in Black Nativity, if you so desire to hear it.
Anyway, Evad and I are packing the car, shortly, to leave to PA. I'll attempt to take some "FO on recipient" pictures while I'm there. I'm bad with the pics though - as ya'll know.
Happy Holidays everyone! Drive safe! Be kind to your fellow man!
Friday, December 19, 2008
Fishy Hat update....
It was a success. I lost count, but I think it was stolen 8 times! Two of the people that had it stolen away from them really want me to make them one. I guess I'll be doing a little "after Christmas" gift making this year....
(Oh, I got a security whistle, in case you were wondering...)
(Oh, I got a security whistle, in case you were wondering...)
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Bad Santa!
We do a Bad Santa swap at work every year. Basically, you bring in a gift you don't want, wrapped up. Everybody draws a number out of a hat, and you choose a gift from the pile in number order. The catch is that each person can choose to steal someone Else's gift, or to open another one from the pile. If someone steals your gift, you then get to open another gift. It gets to be quite crazy.
All manner of crap, er... I mean, "treasures" are entered into the swap. What I find amazing is that one person's trash is an other's treasure. I decided to skip the random knickknack this year and make a swap item. When I saw the new Knitty, and the Fish Hat, I KNEW I had to enter it in the swap. It's just insane enough to be fought over!
Pattern: Fishy from Winter 08 Knitty
Yarn: Leftovers - Knitpicks WOTA, Rowan Magpie, and Brown Sheep Lamb's Pride Worsted
Needles: Knitpicks Options, size 7
Notes: Super Fast Knit! My parents were up visiting this last weekend, and I still got it finished. I started Thursday night, and finished on Sunday Night. It could be a one day project if you had a whole day to just sit and knit. Frankly, it took longer to deal with the eyes than it took to knit the hat!
I didn't modify the pattern at all, except to 3 needle bind off the tail instead of sewing it up. Oh, and I used buttons for eyes instead of felt. I Russian joined the whole thing so as not to have ends to deal with, since I am the laziest finisher EVER. (smarty smart)
I do hope that the staff members fight over this hat. It's fun to have a few things in the mix that are "interesting", yet also desirable. Oh, and early reactions by those who have seen it are very positive!
All manner of crap, er... I mean, "treasures" are entered into the swap. What I find amazing is that one person's trash is an other's treasure. I decided to skip the random knickknack this year and make a swap item. When I saw the new Knitty, and the Fish Hat, I KNEW I had to enter it in the swap. It's just insane enough to be fought over!
Pattern: Fishy from Winter 08 Knitty
Yarn: Leftovers - Knitpicks WOTA, Rowan Magpie, and Brown Sheep Lamb's Pride Worsted
Needles: Knitpicks Options, size 7
Notes: Super Fast Knit! My parents were up visiting this last weekend, and I still got it finished. I started Thursday night, and finished on Sunday Night. It could be a one day project if you had a whole day to just sit and knit. Frankly, it took longer to deal with the eyes than it took to knit the hat!
I didn't modify the pattern at all, except to 3 needle bind off the tail instead of sewing it up. Oh, and I used buttons for eyes instead of felt. I Russian joined the whole thing so as not to have ends to deal with, since I am the laziest finisher EVER. (smarty smart)
I do hope that the staff members fight over this hat. It's fun to have a few things in the mix that are "interesting", yet also desirable. Oh, and early reactions by those who have seen it are very positive!
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Dirty Mittens of Pride!
6 months, 4 testicle references, 3 penile references, and 1 rainbow of color later... you get the Dirty Mittens of Pride!
I finished up the last pair last week, and passed them all out to my peeps at work! (to many happy smiles and such, I must say)
the last pair details:
Name: Woolly Strawberries
Pattern: Wool-Stuffed Mittens from Favorite mittens
Yarn: Reynold's Lite Lopi
Needles: Vintage Size 4 and 5 Dpn's
Notes: WOOO HOOO! Last Pair!!! No mods from any of the other pairs. I think I have burned this pattern in my brain forever though....
Speaking of Holiday Gifts.... Check out my "to wrap" pile on Sunday.
The only thing missing is the socks OTNs, and the fishy hat. The fishy hat is finished, btw! It is drying right now. It is freaking hysterical, IMHO. I'll post more about that tomorrow. In the picture is 4 pair of socks, 2 blankets, 3 shawls, and 7 pair of mittens. Sheesh! Oh, and I did all but the one pair of socks since June. That's a lot of knitting, my friends!
Tuesday, December 09, 2008
Winding down the Gift knitting
Well, dear readers, it is about that time of year again. It's that time when all good knitters start weaving in the ends of their gift knitting, dreaming of projects intended just for them, and trying to guess what size sweater to make while calculating in the expected extra holiday poundage. (eh-hem) The bad knitters (I personally don't know any one like this) start saying things like, "I could knit one more scarf for Aunt Betty," and "I can easily knit a sweater between now and December 24 for my size 54 chest Grandfather!" There is nothing like having a deadline and next to no time to knit to drive a knitter to drink, which only slows down the knitting more. It is a vicious cycle.
I never succumb to this type of pressure.
I'll wait for you to stop laughing.
This year I am doing really well. I am half way through my last pair of mittens and have one more bib that only has to be completed before January - PLENTY of time. So I of course decided to make one more itsy-bitsy gift.... socks. Cabled socks. I am insane. I realize it. No need to point it out, thank you.
I did finish the last bib I was working on, like 2 weeks ago, but whatever.
Name: Giraffe Bib and cloth
Pattern: Baby Bib O' Love
Yarn: Sugar and Cream cotton ombre Summer Splash
Notes: um... it's a bib. It was awesome tech knitting though! Not much to say, really.
The last pair of mittens is underway:
And the aforementioned last minute gift that may, or may not be completed in time. I am going to try not to stress about it. I'm not very good at not stressing, so this could be interesting, to say the least..
Some year I will be a good knitter. Some year....
I never succumb to this type of pressure.
I'll wait for you to stop laughing.
This year I am doing really well. I am half way through my last pair of mittens and have one more bib that only has to be completed before January - PLENTY of time. So I of course decided to make one more itsy-bitsy gift.... socks. Cabled socks. I am insane. I realize it. No need to point it out, thank you.
I did finish the last bib I was working on, like 2 weeks ago, but whatever.
Name: Giraffe Bib and cloth
Pattern: Baby Bib O' Love
Yarn: Sugar and Cream cotton ombre Summer Splash
Notes: um... it's a bib. It was awesome tech knitting though! Not much to say, really.
The last pair of mittens is underway:
And the aforementioned last minute gift that may, or may not be completed in time. I am going to try not to stress about it. I'm not very good at not stressing, so this could be interesting, to say the least..
Some year I will be a good knitter. Some year....
Monday, December 08, 2008
Furry Carrots
One more pair of mittens to go!
I finished number six last Thursday, at SnB. Hurray!!
Name: Furry Carrots
Pattern: Fleece-Stuffed Mittens from Favorite Mittens
Yarn: Brown Sheep Lambs Pride Worsted
Needles: Vintage US 4 and 5 DPN's
Notes: As if any one is reading these still.....
I cast on for the last pair last night. I can't wait to sew in the ends. Also on the needles: a pair of socks, a shawl that is mostly done, and hasn't made it to the blog or Ravelry (I suck), and a baby bib. I vow to do some blog catch up this week!!
I finished number six last Thursday, at SnB. Hurray!!
Name: Furry Carrots
Pattern: Fleece-Stuffed Mittens from Favorite Mittens
Yarn: Brown Sheep Lambs Pride Worsted
Needles: Vintage US 4 and 5 DPN's
Notes: As if any one is reading these still.....
I cast on for the last pair last night. I can't wait to sew in the ends. Also on the needles: a pair of socks, a shawl that is mostly done, and hasn't made it to the blog or Ravelry (I suck), and a baby bib. I vow to do some blog catch up this week!!
Monday, December 01, 2008
Christ on a Cracker!
I actually finished something! It has been way way way too long since I did a real post, and I haven't had any time at all to knit, so I am lucky I finished anything! But, I did!! WOO!!
Saturday afternoon I kitchnered the last toe on my Dad's Christmas socks!
Name: Classic Dads
Pattern: Classic Socks from the Knitting Man(ual)
Yarn: Froehlich Wolle Special Blauband, 2 skeins
Needles: KnitPicks Options, classic circs, size 2
Notes: It took me 2 months to complete these socks. Not because the stitch pattern was hard, or because I got busy, or even because I got distracted by another project. I simply did not enjoy knitting these socks. I like the finished product, but, DAMN, I hated the knitting part. The stitch pattern is four rows long, so every pattern repeat feels like it doesn't get you anywhere, and it is the kind of pattern that you have to pay attention to - at least a little - since you have a semi-fancy maneuver to accomplish every other round. Therefore, not good movie knitting, and not good "in the dark" knitting.
I also forgot to photocopy the pattern out of the book, so I didn't have heel instructions when I got there on my first sock. I opted for my standard short row heel instead. I also opted to not do the stitch pattern on the foot. I would love to say it was because my dad wants smooth socks in his shoes, or something like that, but really, it was because I am lazy, and I could knit the foot at the movies if I did it in SS. Pure laziness decision.
The second sock started out promising. A few SnB nights and I would have the leg finished. Then I got stuck in heel land. I didn't want to start the heel until I knew I'd have enough time to finish it, and that time didn't present itself for a week or two. Finally, I made my heel, and in only a few short days I finished the second sock!
Whew. I tell you, it was quite the slog to finish these up. The very exciting grey yarn might have something to do with the boredom that became these socks, but I mostly blame myself. I know that socks with short pattern repeats are boring to me. I know that socks I have to "look at" while I'm knitting them bother me - unless they have big complicated repeats. Why I picked these socks to begin with is beyond me. But, I can say, my Dad will love them! I do wonder if he'll appreciate the Yarn Harlot conection though?
This was my first time using Froehlich Wolle Special Blauband, and I found it enjoyable. It seems as though it will be pretty rugged, and it comes with heel and toe reinforcement yarn. I did use all but about 10 yards of each ball, so if you have a bigger than men's size 9 foot, you might want three skeins for a pair of socks.
So, another Holiday gift finally comes off the needles, after ONLY two months. (eye roll) I only have two pair of mittens left to go! I almost can't decided what to knit next!
Saturday afternoon I kitchnered the last toe on my Dad's Christmas socks!
Name: Classic Dads
Pattern: Classic Socks from the Knitting Man(ual)
Yarn: Froehlich Wolle Special Blauband, 2 skeins
Needles: KnitPicks Options, classic circs, size 2
Notes: It took me 2 months to complete these socks. Not because the stitch pattern was hard, or because I got busy, or even because I got distracted by another project. I simply did not enjoy knitting these socks. I like the finished product, but, DAMN, I hated the knitting part. The stitch pattern is four rows long, so every pattern repeat feels like it doesn't get you anywhere, and it is the kind of pattern that you have to pay attention to - at least a little - since you have a semi-fancy maneuver to accomplish every other round. Therefore, not good movie knitting, and not good "in the dark" knitting.
I also forgot to photocopy the pattern out of the book, so I didn't have heel instructions when I got there on my first sock. I opted for my standard short row heel instead. I also opted to not do the stitch pattern on the foot. I would love to say it was because my dad wants smooth socks in his shoes, or something like that, but really, it was because I am lazy, and I could knit the foot at the movies if I did it in SS. Pure laziness decision.
The second sock started out promising. A few SnB nights and I would have the leg finished. Then I got stuck in heel land. I didn't want to start the heel until I knew I'd have enough time to finish it, and that time didn't present itself for a week or two. Finally, I made my heel, and in only a few short days I finished the second sock!
Whew. I tell you, it was quite the slog to finish these up. The very exciting grey yarn might have something to do with the boredom that became these socks, but I mostly blame myself. I know that socks with short pattern repeats are boring to me. I know that socks I have to "look at" while I'm knitting them bother me - unless they have big complicated repeats. Why I picked these socks to begin with is beyond me. But, I can say, my Dad will love them! I do wonder if he'll appreciate the Yarn Harlot conection though?
This was my first time using Froehlich Wolle Special Blauband, and I found it enjoyable. It seems as though it will be pretty rugged, and it comes with heel and toe reinforcement yarn. I did use all but about 10 yards of each ball, so if you have a bigger than men's size 9 foot, you might want three skeins for a pair of socks.
So, another Holiday gift finally comes off the needles, after ONLY two months. (eye roll) I only have two pair of mittens left to go! I almost can't decided what to knit next!
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Just to let you know I'm alive
well, and because I haven't had any knitting time....
I'm doing a meme.
The things I have done are in BOLD! My comments and things I plan on doing are in ITALIC. Things I don’t plan on doing ever are just straight regular font!
1. Started my own blog
2. Slept under the stars
3. Played in a band Rock, Marching, and Concert Bands
4. Visited Hawaii
5. Watched a meteor shower
6. Given more than I can afford to charity I have given to charity, but not more than I could afford
7. Been to Disneyland/world
8. Climbed a mountain
9. Held a praying mantis eww. no.
10. Sung a solo
11. Bungee jumped
12. Visited Paris
13. Watched lightening at sea
14. Taught myself an art from scratch
15. Adopted a child I'd do it, if the oppurtunity arose
16. Had food poisoning
17. Walked to the top of the Statue of Liberty
18. Grown my own vegetables
19. Seen the Mona Lisa in France
20. Slept on an overnight train It wasn't fun, since it wasn't a sleeper car.
21. Had a pillow fight uhm yeah! It's what girls do together.
22. Hitchhiked
23. Taken a sick day when you’re not ill (Hasn’t everyone???)
24. Built a snow fort
25. Held a lamb
26. Gone skinny dipping
27. Run a Marathon HAHAHAHAHAHA
28. Ridden in a gondola in Venice
29. Seen a total eclipse
30. Watched a sunrise or sunset
31. Hit a home run
32. Been on a cruise
33. Seen Niagara Falls in person
34. Visited the birthplace of my ancestors
35. Seen an Amish community
36. Taught myself a new language I'm trying - Telemundo works for me!
37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied
38. Seen the Leaning Tower of Pisa in person
39. Gone rock climbing well, on an indoor wall.
40. Seen Michelangelo’s David
41. Sung karaoke
42. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt
43. Bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant Evad did this before.
44. Visited Africa
45. Walked on a beach by moonlight
46. Been transported in an ambulance
47. Had my portrait painted
48. Gone deep sea fishing
49. Seen the Sistine Chapel in person
50. Been to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris
51. Gone scuba diving or snorkeling
52. Kissed in the rain
53. Played in the mud
54. Gone to a drive-in theater
55. Been in a movie I've been on tv quite a few times, but never a movie
56. Visited the Great Wall of China
57. Started a business
58. Taken a martial arts class
59. Visited Russia
60. Served at a soup kitchen
61. Sold Girl Scout Cookies
62. Gone whale watching
63. Got flowers for no reason
64. Donated blood, platelets or plasma
65. Gone sky diving
66. Visited a Nazi Concentration Camp
67. Bounced a check
68. Flown in a helicopter
69. Saved a favorite childhood toy
70. Visited the Lincoln Memorial
71. Eaten Caviar
72. Pieced a quilt
73. Stood in Times Square
74. Toured the Everglades
75. Been fired from a job
76. Seen the Changing of the Guards in London
77. Broken a bone
78. Been on a speeding motorcycle
79. Seen the Grand Canyon in person
80. Published a book
81. Visited the Vatican
82. Bought a brand new car
83. Walked in Jerusalem
84. Had my picture in the newspaper
85. Read the entire Bible
86. Visited the White House
87. Killed and prepared an animal for eating
88. Had chickenpox twice.
89. Saved someone’s life Yup. more than once.
90. Sat on a jury
91. Met someone famous
92. Joined a book club
93. Lost a loved one
94. Had a baby
95. Seen the Alamo in person
96. Swam in the Great Salt Lake
97. Been involved in a law suit
98. Owned a cell phone
99. Been stung by a bee
100. Rode an elephant
I'm doing a meme.
The things I have done are in BOLD! My comments and things I plan on doing are in ITALIC. Things I don’t plan on doing ever are just straight regular font!
1. Started my own blog
2. Slept under the stars
3. Played in a band Rock, Marching, and Concert Bands
4. Visited Hawaii
5. Watched a meteor shower
6. Given more than I can afford to charity I have given to charity, but not more than I could afford
7. Been to Disneyland/world
8. Climbed a mountain
9. Held a praying mantis eww. no.
10. Sung a solo
11. Bungee jumped
12. Visited Paris
13. Watched lightening at sea
14. Taught myself an art from scratch
15. Adopted a child I'd do it, if the oppurtunity arose
16. Had food poisoning
17. Walked to the top of the Statue of Liberty
18. Grown my own vegetables
19. Seen the Mona Lisa in France
20. Slept on an overnight train It wasn't fun, since it wasn't a sleeper car.
21. Had a pillow fight uhm yeah! It's what girls do together.
22. Hitchhiked
23. Taken a sick day when you’re not ill (Hasn’t everyone???)
24. Built a snow fort
25. Held a lamb
26. Gone skinny dipping
27. Run a Marathon HAHAHAHAHAHA
28. Ridden in a gondola in Venice
29. Seen a total eclipse
30. Watched a sunrise or sunset
31. Hit a home run
32. Been on a cruise
33. Seen Niagara Falls in person
34. Visited the birthplace of my ancestors
35. Seen an Amish community
36. Taught myself a new language I'm trying - Telemundo works for me!
37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied
38. Seen the Leaning Tower of Pisa in person
39. Gone rock climbing well, on an indoor wall.
40. Seen Michelangelo’s David
41. Sung karaoke
42. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt
43. Bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant Evad did this before.
44. Visited Africa
45. Walked on a beach by moonlight
46. Been transported in an ambulance
47. Had my portrait painted
48. Gone deep sea fishing
49. Seen the Sistine Chapel in person
50. Been to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris
51. Gone scuba diving or snorkeling
52. Kissed in the rain
53. Played in the mud
54. Gone to a drive-in theater
55. Been in a movie I've been on tv quite a few times, but never a movie
56. Visited the Great Wall of China
57. Started a business
58. Taken a martial arts class
59. Visited Russia
60. Served at a soup kitchen
61. Sold Girl Scout Cookies
62. Gone whale watching
63. Got flowers for no reason
64. Donated blood, platelets or plasma
65. Gone sky diving
66. Visited a Nazi Concentration Camp
67. Bounced a check
68. Flown in a helicopter
69. Saved a favorite childhood toy
70. Visited the Lincoln Memorial
71. Eaten Caviar
72. Pieced a quilt
73. Stood in Times Square
74. Toured the Everglades
75. Been fired from a job
76. Seen the Changing of the Guards in London
77. Broken a bone
78. Been on a speeding motorcycle
79. Seen the Grand Canyon in person
80. Published a book
81. Visited the Vatican
82. Bought a brand new car
83. Walked in Jerusalem
84. Had my picture in the newspaper
85. Read the entire Bible
86. Visited the White House
87. Killed and prepared an animal for eating
88. Had chickenpox twice.
89. Saved someone’s life Yup. more than once.
90. Sat on a jury
91. Met someone famous
92. Joined a book club
93. Lost a loved one
94. Had a baby
95. Seen the Alamo in person
96. Swam in the Great Salt Lake
97. Been involved in a law suit
98. Owned a cell phone
99. Been stung by a bee
100. Rode an elephant
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Doin' stuff.
I've been doin' stuff. Ok - mostly working, but, in the little time I am away from the theatre, I have managed to get some knitting done. Of course, I chose to spend my time knitting, in stead of blogging, so you guys didn't even know I started these projects, let alone finished them. In fact, I didn't even get them loaded into Ravelry before I finished them. Feel free to roll your eyes at me. I'm rolling mine.
I finished another pair of Holiday Gift Mittens!!
Name: Shaggy Squash
Pattern: Fleece Stuffed Mittens from Favorite Mittens
Needles: Vintage DPN's in size 4 and 5
Yarn: Valley Yarns Berkshire in Gold
Notes: Yup, more Penile references. I'm a 12 year old boy. This is my first pair with black thrumming. I like the effect, although the black is somehow harder to work with. It is softer than the cream was, and therefore less "grabby". But, it is softer, and therefore amazingly decadent to wear. I have two pairs left to go, and both get the black thumming. I think I might actually get them all finished with time to spare! (knock on wood)
I also knit up another baby bib.
Name: Baby Grossness Protector
Pattern: Baby Bib of Love from Mason Dixon Knitting
Needles: US 5's
Yarn: Sugar and Cream Ombre - summer splash
Notes: These little bibs are so cute and fast. Much faster than a baby blanket - just saying. Anyway, I knit most of this during the new James Bond movie. (Growl!) I finished up the last strap last night, and found the cutest button this morning. Awwwww.
If this little piece of knitting wasn't for catching all manner of grossness that comes out of a baby's mouth, I'd say I just want to eat it up. I plan on making two more of these for imminent baby arrivals. They will be good tech knitting I think...
So I gotta go. Work is calling. It sounds like a blasted Christmas song.
I finished another pair of Holiday Gift Mittens!!
Name: Shaggy Squash
Pattern: Fleece Stuffed Mittens from Favorite Mittens
Needles: Vintage DPN's in size 4 and 5
Yarn: Valley Yarns Berkshire in Gold
Notes: Yup, more Penile references. I'm a 12 year old boy. This is my first pair with black thrumming. I like the effect, although the black is somehow harder to work with. It is softer than the cream was, and therefore less "grabby". But, it is softer, and therefore amazingly decadent to wear. I have two pairs left to go, and both get the black thumming. I think I might actually get them all finished with time to spare! (knock on wood)
I also knit up another baby bib.
Name: Baby Grossness Protector
Pattern: Baby Bib of Love from Mason Dixon Knitting
Needles: US 5's
Yarn: Sugar and Cream Ombre - summer splash
Notes: These little bibs are so cute and fast. Much faster than a baby blanket - just saying. Anyway, I knit most of this during the new James Bond movie. (Growl!) I finished up the last strap last night, and found the cutest button this morning. Awwwww.
If this little piece of knitting wasn't for catching all manner of grossness that comes out of a baby's mouth, I'd say I just want to eat it up. I plan on making two more of these for imminent baby arrivals. They will be good tech knitting I think...
So I gotta go. Work is calling. It sounds like a blasted Christmas song.
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
For the Love of all that is Yarny
Attention all blog readers!
eh hem.
I have finally finished something, in a respectable amount of time - even with the current work load form the underworld- AND am managing to blog about it!!!
Oh, hold on a minute. We have to wait for a few people that fell over.
Better? ok!
Name: Pink Pangaea
Pattern: Pangaea Shawl by Whatifknits
Yarn: JaggerSpun Zephyr Wool-Silk 2/18, in Ladyslipper
Needles: KP Harmony options, size 5
Notes: I am a sucker for a KAL shawl. I really really am. I am also not a quitter, so quite often I find myself knitting to finish a shawl that I am not totally in love with, just to "get it done". The Pangaea Shawl does not fall into that world. I really do love it, and enjoyed knitting it. Evad might disagree, since he heard the bulk of the cuss words that I flung about when trying to p3tog and doing the last 5 or so rows.
But, on the whole, a nice lace project. It wasn't too easy - causing boredom. It wasn't too hard- so it could go to SnB. Nice medium hard lace. Well, except that edging. ok. ok. it wasn't hard, per se, just fussy. I have been quite stressed at work lately, and knitting has been helping to relieve that stress nicely. "True Lace" knitting is not on my stress relieving short list. I'll just leave it at that.
I plan to give this bit of lacy goodness to LWT for the radio auction. I hope it sells well. The one last year did, so I have high hopes. Hey! I just realized that I finished this hella early! The radio auction isn't until February! I rock so hard I'm gonna have a stiff neck for a year.
As always, knitting with Zephyr is wonderful. The sheen after blocking is fan-fucking-tastic. It blocks so well. Dream lace yarn. And it looks like cotton candy. sweet.
Well peeps, that is all from the land of Costumechick. I'll try to post a bit more often, but I am finding the darkness at 5:00 a deterrent. I can't manage to move my considerable ass is the morning to get good progress shots in the daylight. Then, at night it is dark when I get home. Oh, and I am actually working at work, so no time for blog post then either. Sigh. Oh well, at least this only lasts for two more hellish, Christmas filled weeks!!
eh hem.
I have finally finished something, in a respectable amount of time - even with the current work load form the underworld- AND am managing to blog about it!!!
Oh, hold on a minute. We have to wait for a few people that fell over.
Better? ok!
Name: Pink Pangaea
Pattern: Pangaea Shawl by Whatifknits
Yarn: JaggerSpun Zephyr Wool-Silk 2/18, in Ladyslipper
Needles: KP Harmony options, size 5
Notes: I am a sucker for a KAL shawl. I really really am. I am also not a quitter, so quite often I find myself knitting to finish a shawl that I am not totally in love with, just to "get it done". The Pangaea Shawl does not fall into that world. I really do love it, and enjoyed knitting it. Evad might disagree, since he heard the bulk of the cuss words that I flung about when trying to p3tog and doing the last 5 or so rows.
But, on the whole, a nice lace project. It wasn't too easy - causing boredom. It wasn't too hard- so it could go to SnB. Nice medium hard lace. Well, except that edging. ok. ok. it wasn't hard, per se, just fussy. I have been quite stressed at work lately, and knitting has been helping to relieve that stress nicely. "True Lace" knitting is not on my stress relieving short list. I'll just leave it at that.
I plan to give this bit of lacy goodness to LWT for the radio auction. I hope it sells well. The one last year did, so I have high hopes. Hey! I just realized that I finished this hella early! The radio auction isn't until February! I rock so hard I'm gonna have a stiff neck for a year.
As always, knitting with Zephyr is wonderful. The sheen after blocking is fan-fucking-tastic. It blocks so well. Dream lace yarn. And it looks like cotton candy. sweet.
Well peeps, that is all from the land of Costumechick. I'll try to post a bit more often, but I am finding the darkness at 5:00 a deterrent. I can't manage to move my considerable ass is the morning to get good progress shots in the daylight. Then, at night it is dark when I get home. Oh, and I am actually working at work, so no time for blog post then either. Sigh. Oh well, at least this only lasts for two more hellish, Christmas filled weeks!!
Thursday, November 06, 2008
some thoughts
I'm coming out of my Christmas show infused craze of a life to post a few comments about where I've been, what I'm doing, and my thoughts about the last few days.
Where have I been?
Working, bitches. Christmas show is hugely hugely big. I have a metric shit ton of stuff to do, o I am not getting to blog. I think of stuff to say everyday, feel guilty for not posting everyday, yet still don't manage to actually do it. The return of semi-regular posting is coming, I promise.
What am I doing?
Aside for the Christmas show from Hell? Um.. Still working on the socks form my Dad. They are really dull. I did finish the first one, finally. I am on the last clue of the Pangea Shawl. It's pretty. I should post pics. (roll eyes)
I am also working on a shawl for the Christmas show that will not Die. It's big. It's black, it's lace. Pics would be nice of that too....
Yeah. That's it. work, knit lace, sleep. It has been, and will be my life until after Thanksgiving.
What are my thoughts on the last few days?
I had a day to process, so I can skip the "WHOOOOOOO HOOOOOOOOOO" portion of my post and go directly to the meat of my thoughts.
I am happy, super proud, and elated at this countries decision to elect Obama. I know lots of people didn't agree on the choice, or else he would have 100% of the vote, but then we wouldn't have had a real election. Choice is a very important thing.
Speaking of choice... I don't live in Colorado. I visited it once. It was nice. But, I am proud that they managed to see why "defining when life begins" could be a problem, and a step towards thwarting a woman's choices about her body. I am firmly in the "keep the government out of my uterus camp."
While we are keeping the government out shit..... what the hell California? What the hell, rest of the states that voted on Marriage definitions? Seriously. My heart is aching for all my gay and lesbian friends. I'm glad that CT didn't vote to have a "Constitutional convention", but I am heart broken about the other decisions across the country. Prop H8te won't be decided for at least another week, as all the provisional ballots have not been counted, but still... why is this even close?
It seems a bit extreme, but what if next the religious nut jobs decided that non-christians can't marry? Evad and I are, respectively, Atheist and Agnostic. We don't believe in "the bible". (don't get me started in how you can't believe in a book, but believe instead in the mythology in the book. I'll go on for days, and I have work shit to do.) How big of a leap is it really for the fundies to say, "Marriage should be defined as a union between one christian man and one christian woman."?
I'll leave it at that.
Where have I been?
Working, bitches. Christmas show is hugely hugely big. I have a metric shit ton of stuff to do, o I am not getting to blog. I think of stuff to say everyday, feel guilty for not posting everyday, yet still don't manage to actually do it. The return of semi-regular posting is coming, I promise.
What am I doing?
Aside for the Christmas show from Hell? Um.. Still working on the socks form my Dad. They are really dull. I did finish the first one, finally. I am on the last clue of the Pangea Shawl. It's pretty. I should post pics. (roll eyes)
I am also working on a shawl for the Christmas show that will not Die. It's big. It's black, it's lace. Pics would be nice of that too....
Yeah. That's it. work, knit lace, sleep. It has been, and will be my life until after Thanksgiving.
What are my thoughts on the last few days?
I had a day to process, so I can skip the "WHOOOOOOO HOOOOOOOOOO" portion of my post and go directly to the meat of my thoughts.
I am happy, super proud, and elated at this countries decision to elect Obama. I know lots of people didn't agree on the choice, or else he would have 100% of the vote, but then we wouldn't have had a real election. Choice is a very important thing.
Speaking of choice... I don't live in Colorado. I visited it once. It was nice. But, I am proud that they managed to see why "defining when life begins" could be a problem, and a step towards thwarting a woman's choices about her body. I am firmly in the "keep the government out of my uterus camp."
While we are keeping the government out shit..... what the hell California? What the hell, rest of the states that voted on Marriage definitions? Seriously. My heart is aching for all my gay and lesbian friends. I'm glad that CT didn't vote to have a "Constitutional convention", but I am heart broken about the other decisions across the country. Prop H8te won't be decided for at least another week, as all the provisional ballots have not been counted, but still... why is this even close?
It seems a bit extreme, but what if next the religious nut jobs decided that non-christians can't marry? Evad and I are, respectively, Atheist and Agnostic. We don't believe in "the bible". (don't get me started in how you can't believe in a book, but believe instead in the mythology in the book. I'll go on for days, and I have work shit to do.) How big of a leap is it really for the fundies to say, "Marriage should be defined as a union between one christian man and one christian woman."?
I'll leave it at that.
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Post #2 from the wayback machine
As we continue the Costumechick catch-up-o-rama, I bring you my next FO, and non-blogged project.
The Mittens of Browness!
Name: Mittens of Browness
Pattern: Fleeced Stuffed Mittens from Favorite Mittens
Yarn: Valley Yarns Berkshire in Brown
Needles: US size 4 and 5 dpns
Notes: This is pair #5 of these mittens. This pair was supposed to be knit after the other three I have on my Holiday list, but they moved up due to a knitting emergency. (Namely, I ran out of other project while in a traffic jam, and had this yarn and free needles with me)
These are for Evad, and I hope he likes them. He said he did, but he might be lying. Evad is sneaky.
The Mittens of Browness!
Name: Mittens of Browness
Pattern: Fleeced Stuffed Mittens from Favorite Mittens
Yarn: Valley Yarns Berkshire in Brown
Needles: US size 4 and 5 dpns
Notes: This is pair #5 of these mittens. This pair was supposed to be knit after the other three I have on my Holiday list, but they moved up due to a knitting emergency. (Namely, I ran out of other project while in a traffic jam, and had this yarn and free needles with me)
These are for Evad, and I hope he likes them. He said he did, but he might be lying. Evad is sneaky.
Why Costumechick Sucks
I try not to suck too hard, as a general rule. We all know how I feel about rules though. SO, I often find myself sucking, even if I don't want to. This last week (and a little), I have sucked really damn hard - at least at blogging.
I have finished two projects, started one more, finished another two clues of my Pangea Shawl, and went to the yarn mecca of Rhinebeck. And you, my dear readers got to hear nothing of it. I kind of feel as though I should just start from right now, and skip the last week and a half of events, as if they didn't even happen.
Instead, I will be belated blogging. Just pretend that the wayback machine is in charge of your blog reading destiny.
I finished the Cable Trim Pullover!
Name:Cable Trim Pullover
Pattern: #26 Cable Trim Pullover, from Vogue Knitting Winter 2007/08
Yarn: Berroco Ultra Alpaca, color #6283
Needles: Knitpick Classic Circs in size 2 &3
Notes: First of all, this pattern was really well written, easy to follow, and usually pretty obvious in it's construction. That said, the pattern also expects you to just sew the neck band in with out any form of guidance. It says something like, "sew cable trim on as shown in photo". Not so helpful, really.
I love, love, love the yarn. I love the color, I love the softness, I love the halo. I will be using this again. I didn't need all 8 skeins though. I ended up only using 6. I think the pattern called for 7, but I always get an extra, cause if I don't, I run out. So now I have two more that need to be something....
Overall, I am very happy with this sweater, and it was finished just in time for RHINEBECK!! So I will be (did) participate with the cool kids and wear a brand new sweater for RHINEBECK!! The only thing I'd change, other than actually making it fit my mom, whom it was originally intended for, is to lengthen it. I could use another inch in the body of the sweater. It's fine the way it is though, since I always wear a shirt under my sweater anyway.
Normally, I would include a full modeled pic, but I am not for this sweater. It fits great, but I can't seem to take a pic of it where I don't look bad, or wide, or muffin top. This boob-a-lish-ish pic is the best I could do. There is one on Ravelry, should you feel the need to see me at my worst.
I have finished two projects, started one more, finished another two clues of my Pangea Shawl, and went to the yarn mecca of Rhinebeck. And you, my dear readers got to hear nothing of it. I kind of feel as though I should just start from right now, and skip the last week and a half of events, as if they didn't even happen.
Instead, I will be belated blogging. Just pretend that the wayback machine is in charge of your blog reading destiny.
I finished the Cable Trim Pullover!
Name:Cable Trim Pullover
Pattern: #26 Cable Trim Pullover, from Vogue Knitting Winter 2007/08
Yarn: Berroco Ultra Alpaca, color #6283
Needles: Knitpick Classic Circs in size 2 &3
Notes: First of all, this pattern was really well written, easy to follow, and usually pretty obvious in it's construction. That said, the pattern also expects you to just sew the neck band in with out any form of guidance. It says something like, "sew cable trim on as shown in photo". Not so helpful, really.
I love, love, love the yarn. I love the color, I love the softness, I love the halo. I will be using this again. I didn't need all 8 skeins though. I ended up only using 6. I think the pattern called for 7, but I always get an extra, cause if I don't, I run out. So now I have two more that need to be something....
Overall, I am very happy with this sweater, and it was finished just in time for RHINEBECK!! So I will be (did) participate with the cool kids and wear a brand new sweater for RHINEBECK!! The only thing I'd change, other than actually making it fit my mom, whom it was originally intended for, is to lengthen it. I could use another inch in the body of the sweater. It's fine the way it is though, since I always wear a shirt under my sweater anyway.
Normally, I would include a full modeled pic, but I am not for this sweater. It fits great, but I can't seem to take a pic of it where I don't look bad, or wide, or muffin top. This boob-a-lish-ish pic is the best I could do. There is one on Ravelry, should you feel the need to see me at my worst.
Friday, October 10, 2008
Things I love today
We can marry who we want
I am proud to live in Connecticut. A little over half of my friends and coworkers are gay, and I am proud that we all now have equal marriage rights. It is one step closer to everybody being respected equally in our nation.
On a side note, I expect to be invited to all of your weddings. I will bring fabulous gifts!
I am proud to live in Connecticut. A little over half of my friends and coworkers are gay, and I am proud that we all now have equal marriage rights. It is one step closer to everybody being respected equally in our nation.
On a side note, I expect to be invited to all of your weddings. I will bring fabulous gifts!
Thursday, October 09, 2008
Things that pissed me off today.
1. Drivers. Specifically other idiot drivers that don't understand how turn signals work. No worries, none of the chodes ran into me, but boy did they try! It seems that it is "jerks that are unable to pilot a car and use turn signals go for a drive in Connecticut" day. I missed the memo, and tried to drive on the highway.
2. Work. It's really busy at work. But, it is that irritating "lots to do, but waiting for information" kind of busy. Hurry up and wait. These type of days drive me bat shit crazy.
3. people changing their minds. - see 1. and 2. Stay in your lane! You picked it. Stay there. Don't fucking change your mind and cut me off! Also, if you don't want a haircut, and I cancel the appointment, don't call me back two days later and say that you do want a haircut, and expect me to be able to reschedule it. This kind of jackassery just pisses everybody off.
4. Knitting. I am not getting to work on my Mittens of Browness. I am not really doing anything, yet I cannot not knit. I find this frustrating.
5. Republicans. I feel I don't need to go into detail. I will say that the Ayers thing is bullshit. I will also say that I feel like I want to slap a few people if I meet them. Those people better hope they don't run into me today, lest I carry out my slapping plan. I'm just in the mood.
Ahh. Feels good to vent a little.
Robot voice: "Stress level returning to med-high. Crisis diverted."
2. Work. It's really busy at work. But, it is that irritating "lots to do, but waiting for information" kind of busy. Hurry up and wait. These type of days drive me bat shit crazy.
3. people changing their minds. - see 1. and 2. Stay in your lane! You picked it. Stay there. Don't fucking change your mind and cut me off! Also, if you don't want a haircut, and I cancel the appointment, don't call me back two days later and say that you do want a haircut, and expect me to be able to reschedule it. This kind of jackassery just pisses everybody off.
4. Knitting. I am not getting to work on my Mittens of Browness. I am not really doing anything, yet I cannot not knit. I find this frustrating.
5. Republicans. I feel I don't need to go into detail. I will say that the Ayers thing is bullshit. I will also say that I feel like I want to slap a few people if I meet them. Those people better hope they don't run into me today, lest I carry out my slapping plan. I'm just in the mood.
Ahh. Feels good to vent a little.
Robot voice: "Stress level returning to med-high. Crisis diverted."
Wednesday, October 08, 2008
This and that.
No FO's, yet, but I do have some updaterly things to show you! A little this and a little that, all for you, my blog reader's. I just want you to feel special, and involved in my life. (You see, if I get you involved enough, I might be able to convince you that you like me enough to help me move. My whole life revolves around building up enough Friends to make moving easy. Even when I don't have plans to move anytime soon. I'm tricksy.)
The aforementioned Pangea Shawl:
See! It's cute! I'm peer pressuring you some more. Sign up... it's only one little clue....
OH! I am totally punk as fuck! I did what I said I was going to do, which is completely crazy and weird, therefore punk. I finished my sleeves...
AND blocked them. Be afraid. This WILL be done in time for RHINEBECK!
That's it, from the land of Costumechick, for today. Tomorrow you might get to see something brown! woo! Brown!
ps. please note the lack of McCain commentary. I'm saving it for the Bitches. You are forewarned.
The aforementioned Pangea Shawl:
See! It's cute! I'm peer pressuring you some more. Sign up... it's only one little clue....
OH! I am totally punk as fuck! I did what I said I was going to do, which is completely crazy and weird, therefore punk. I finished my sleeves...
AND blocked them. Be afraid. This WILL be done in time for RHINEBECK!
That's it, from the land of Costumechick, for today. Tomorrow you might get to see something brown! woo! Brown!
ps. please note the lack of McCain commentary. I'm saving it for the Bitches. You are forewarned.
Tuesday, October 07, 2008
How about some knitting content?
I know! Knitting content on a knitting blog? How conformist of me. But, according to LSG, "Fucking butter is punk as fuck."
I actually have been doing some knitting, in between tech, drinking, throwing my shoes at the TV when political stuff is on, and doing the other assorted things one must do to stay alive as a human. Oh yeah, I'm in tech again. This time it is for "Hughie", starring Brian Denehy. He is a really nice guy, and funny too. Anybody that calls me "doll face" is cool in my books though. It hasn't been a tough tech, but it is still not the most fun one can have on a weekend. I spent the time working on my Cable Trim Pullover sleeves.
Oh yeah? remember that? I'm making a sweater. I am 22 rows from being finished with the knitting on this sweater. I am in love with it. Really, I am, but I am not looking forward to the sewing up part. I will persevere, as I want to wear it for RHINEBECK! (RHINEBECK must always be said in capitol letters. That's just how it is.) I was going to finish it last night, but I realized that I would be sitting with nothing to do during tech today if I finished it. I could work on the socks that I started last week, but I'm feeling a little blase' about them. The pattern and color combo is not making me happy. I'm thinking on it. Anyway, I plan to cast off the damn sleeves tonight, block tomorrow, and maybe be sewing up at SnB! We'll see.... I rarely do what I should, or what I say I'm going to do. You realize, that makes me punk. Then when I do what I say I am going to do, it is unexpected - out of character even - and I am therefore Punk as Fuck.
Y'all should be proud to know me.
SO, what did I work on last night, as I was not finishing the sleeves on purpose? I cast on another project. Don't roll your eyes at me! Save it for the Presidential Debate. Over on Ravelry, "Whatifknits" wrote a shawl pattern and wanted to know if people wanted to knit it. I pmed her that I did. Now I am in a KAL on her blog: Pangea The shawl is awesome so far. I'll post pics of that eventually. For now you have to look at the yarn.
Pretty, lacy goodness. She is inviting anyone that wants to KAL to join.... we are only one clue in, and it is an easy one. You know you want to. Come on.
That is called peer pressure. I should be on an After School Special.
I'm wiped out. I'll leave the tales of shoe throwing, drinking, and other assorted crap for another time. Till then, remember, "From an early age, I've always loved Jews and Cuban food." Tina Fey is my secret girlfriend.
I actually have been doing some knitting, in between tech, drinking, throwing my shoes at the TV when political stuff is on, and doing the other assorted things one must do to stay alive as a human. Oh yeah, I'm in tech again. This time it is for "Hughie", starring Brian Denehy. He is a really nice guy, and funny too. Anybody that calls me "doll face" is cool in my books though. It hasn't been a tough tech, but it is still not the most fun one can have on a weekend. I spent the time working on my Cable Trim Pullover sleeves.
Oh yeah? remember that? I'm making a sweater. I am 22 rows from being finished with the knitting on this sweater. I am in love with it. Really, I am, but I am not looking forward to the sewing up part. I will persevere, as I want to wear it for RHINEBECK! (RHINEBECK must always be said in capitol letters. That's just how it is.) I was going to finish it last night, but I realized that I would be sitting with nothing to do during tech today if I finished it. I could work on the socks that I started last week, but I'm feeling a little blase' about them. The pattern and color combo is not making me happy. I'm thinking on it. Anyway, I plan to cast off the damn sleeves tonight, block tomorrow, and maybe be sewing up at SnB! We'll see.... I rarely do what I should, or what I say I'm going to do. You realize, that makes me punk. Then when I do what I say I am going to do, it is unexpected - out of character even - and I am therefore Punk as Fuck.
Y'all should be proud to know me.
SO, what did I work on last night, as I was not finishing the sleeves on purpose? I cast on another project. Don't roll your eyes at me! Save it for the Presidential Debate. Over on Ravelry, "Whatifknits" wrote a shawl pattern and wanted to know if people wanted to knit it. I pmed her that I did. Now I am in a KAL on her blog: Pangea The shawl is awesome so far. I'll post pics of that eventually. For now you have to look at the yarn.
Pretty, lacy goodness. She is inviting anyone that wants to KAL to join.... we are only one clue in, and it is an easy one. You know you want to. Come on.
That is called peer pressure. I should be on an After School Special.
I'm wiped out. I'll leave the tales of shoe throwing, drinking, and other assorted crap for another time. Till then, remember, "From an early age, I've always loved Jews and Cuban food." Tina Fey is my secret girlfriend.
Saturday, October 04, 2008
Vodka And Latex
I lieu of an actual post about knitting, I'm going to wax on about my friends, and work and shit. Cause, you know, I can.
Every week at SnB I think, "I should write down the stuff we say. It'd make a great blog post." do I ever? Hell no. That would require forethought and planning. Costumechick doesn't roll that way. She barely remembers to bring all the stuff she needs to SnB to actually knit, let alone do something additional. What the hell am I talking about? I barely remember to wear all the appropriate pieces of clothing in the morning. I could be called, with out much reservation, a mess.
Anyway, This week the bitches were quite excitable, and loud. A serious amount of quips and digs were laid out for all of Panera Bread - including the nuns - to hear. For your reading, and for the bitches, a review, of what I remember we talked about at Snb this Thursday. Well, at least what the alcohol didn't kill off...
1.Sarah "Caribou Barbie" Palin - she is an endless source of humor. Really. Between complaining about her lack of knowledge on anything, discussing her unbelievable small wardrobe, and being enraged about the assumption that women will vote for her because she allegedly has a vagina... well, you get the point. Since we were bitching and stitching, we didn't manage to watch the debate, live. It's probably better that way, as a few of us would now have broken TVs from throwing shoes at the "Alaskan Airhead". I can say, since I watched it later, she did a good job a memorizing the republican crapola that they asked her too. Yay for her! However, she was totally laughable, for reasons I will not go into here, but at least someone went to the Kasper outlet and bought her a new damn suit! Shit, if I had to see that ugly Walmart suit with the funnel neck one more time, I was going to take my measly salary - provided, in part my the NEA (that she and the other republidiots want to get rid of), and go down to the Burlington Coat factory and spend 50 bucks on a new fucking suit for her! It was embarrassing. Seriously.
ahem. Palin wailin' was a big part of the evenings festivities.
2.Getting smells out of stuff. In theatre, we have been using a spray on smell remover- ala' Febreeze - for, well, ever. It's called Vodka. The cheap shit that you can only drink if you are an underage college student or desperate. If they made a 5 gallon jug with big black "government cheese" lettering on the side that said "VODKA", it'd be perfect. We mix it half and half with water, and spray liberally on clothing. It works. Seriously! I promise, you don't smell like a martini, and it doesn't stain. This whole tangent started when we were talking about banned websites and watching porn at work. I said I can get away with almost anything, as my job requires me to look at a lot of 'questionable' web sites. Like what? Oh, you know... thigh highs, corsets, fake breasts... the list goes on. I regularly accidentally find myself on a porn site while looking for garter belts. That convo morphed into cleaning costumes that can't be dry cleaned - like latex. Then the vodka thing. Well, by the end, Knelley decided that my name was an acronym for Vodka And Latex. V.A.L. I'm fine with that. It could also be Vodka And Leather. that is even better. (smile)
PS. True to form, I got a shot of Smirnoff later at the bar. Just sayin'.
3.Balls. every week. You don't have to even be there to know we talked about balls.
4.Office gossip. Also, every week. It's the best soap opera around. Granted, I don't want any of it any where near where I work, but I am happy to listen to it from others. especially how Knelley's third graders are plotting a coupe.
5. The Youtube. Yankee bought a Youtube this weekend at the Best Buy. I'm sending her 8-tracks and video tapes to put on the youtube. That way, when she does the google, it'll show me them on the interweb. This is how I am going to learn about McCain and his progressive understanding of those damn kids, er... I mean, youth vote.
6.Libertarians. Is it just me, or are these guys balls to the walls crazy? OMG. get out the tin foil hats! The governments are reading our minds! The Us Government is conspiring with Canada and Mexico to make one giant country with a single currency - the Amero. The dude in the bandanna and nasty jeans is going to save us all by running for a seat in the house as a libertarian. Oh thank the gods. I might have voted for someone not crazy if he hadn't accosted us in the parking lot.
**Public service announcement**
when a crazy - be they Libertarian, Fundy, Mormon, Scientologist, or plain whackjob - confronts you, turn and walk away. Do not engage! If this doesn't work, and they follow you to continue the conversation, say "no thank you", and continue walling. be prepared, this may not work, as some crazies are very committed to their crazy. In this case, your only recourse is to "out crazy" them. I recommend screaming even crazier things at the top of your lungs, while making a wild eyed glare. Feel free to channel Sarah Palin to make this easier. I will give an example:
Crazy guy: "The Federal reserve is a private bank! America really has no money!"
You: "Oh, I knew it. Another person that knows the truth. Did you have your brain wave deflector implanted, cause I see you aren't wearing the tin foil hat. Mine was implanted by aliens during the last eclipse. Did you know that blueberries are a secret government plot to make the people automatons?! It's true! Blueberries and yogurt are causing the downfall of mankind. The sponges are in on it too! All hail the purple mist alien overlords!"
Feel free to chase the crazy person, as they will hopefully be running away. The true whackjobs, will not. You will now have a new best friend. Yay!
I can't wait until next week, when we will undoubtedly discuss balls, office gossip, what insipid thing Palin said, and whatever dirty things pop into our heads again. Hopefully, there won't be Nuns to keep us from really letting go this time....
Every week at SnB I think, "I should write down the stuff we say. It'd make a great blog post." do I ever? Hell no. That would require forethought and planning. Costumechick doesn't roll that way. She barely remembers to bring all the stuff she needs to SnB to actually knit, let alone do something additional. What the hell am I talking about? I barely remember to wear all the appropriate pieces of clothing in the morning. I could be called, with out much reservation, a mess.
Anyway, This week the bitches were quite excitable, and loud. A serious amount of quips and digs were laid out for all of Panera Bread - including the nuns - to hear. For your reading, and for the bitches, a review, of what I remember we talked about at Snb this Thursday. Well, at least what the alcohol didn't kill off...
1.Sarah "Caribou Barbie" Palin - she is an endless source of humor. Really. Between complaining about her lack of knowledge on anything, discussing her unbelievable small wardrobe, and being enraged about the assumption that women will vote for her because she allegedly has a vagina... well, you get the point. Since we were bitching and stitching, we didn't manage to watch the debate, live. It's probably better that way, as a few of us would now have broken TVs from throwing shoes at the "Alaskan Airhead". I can say, since I watched it later, she did a good job a memorizing the republican crapola that they asked her too. Yay for her! However, she was totally laughable, for reasons I will not go into here, but at least someone went to the Kasper outlet and bought her a new damn suit! Shit, if I had to see that ugly Walmart suit with the funnel neck one more time, I was going to take my measly salary - provided, in part my the NEA (that she and the other republidiots want to get rid of), and go down to the Burlington Coat factory and spend 50 bucks on a new fucking suit for her! It was embarrassing. Seriously.
ahem. Palin wailin' was a big part of the evenings festivities.
2.Getting smells out of stuff. In theatre, we have been using a spray on smell remover- ala' Febreeze - for, well, ever. It's called Vodka. The cheap shit that you can only drink if you are an underage college student or desperate. If they made a 5 gallon jug with big black "government cheese" lettering on the side that said "VODKA", it'd be perfect. We mix it half and half with water, and spray liberally on clothing. It works. Seriously! I promise, you don't smell like a martini, and it doesn't stain. This whole tangent started when we were talking about banned websites and watching porn at work. I said I can get away with almost anything, as my job requires me to look at a lot of 'questionable' web sites. Like what? Oh, you know... thigh highs, corsets, fake breasts... the list goes on. I regularly accidentally find myself on a porn site while looking for garter belts. That convo morphed into cleaning costumes that can't be dry cleaned - like latex. Then the vodka thing. Well, by the end, Knelley decided that my name was an acronym for Vodka And Latex. V.A.L. I'm fine with that. It could also be Vodka And Leather. that is even better. (smile)
PS. True to form, I got a shot of Smirnoff later at the bar. Just sayin'.
3.Balls. every week. You don't have to even be there to know we talked about balls.
4.Office gossip. Also, every week. It's the best soap opera around. Granted, I don't want any of it any where near where I work, but I am happy to listen to it from others. especially how Knelley's third graders are plotting a coupe.
5. The Youtube. Yankee bought a Youtube this weekend at the Best Buy. I'm sending her 8-tracks and video tapes to put on the youtube. That way, when she does the google, it'll show me them on the interweb. This is how I am going to learn about McCain and his progressive understanding of those damn kids, er... I mean, youth vote.
6.Libertarians. Is it just me, or are these guys balls to the walls crazy? OMG. get out the tin foil hats! The governments are reading our minds! The Us Government is conspiring with Canada and Mexico to make one giant country with a single currency - the Amero. The dude in the bandanna and nasty jeans is going to save us all by running for a seat in the house as a libertarian. Oh thank the gods. I might have voted for someone not crazy if he hadn't accosted us in the parking lot.
**Public service announcement**
when a crazy - be they Libertarian, Fundy, Mormon, Scientologist, or plain whackjob - confronts you, turn and walk away. Do not engage! If this doesn't work, and they follow you to continue the conversation, say "no thank you", and continue walling. be prepared, this may not work, as some crazies are very committed to their crazy. In this case, your only recourse is to "out crazy" them. I recommend screaming even crazier things at the top of your lungs, while making a wild eyed glare. Feel free to channel Sarah Palin to make this easier. I will give an example:
Crazy guy: "The Federal reserve is a private bank! America really has no money!"
You: "Oh, I knew it. Another person that knows the truth. Did you have your brain wave deflector implanted, cause I see you aren't wearing the tin foil hat. Mine was implanted by aliens during the last eclipse. Did you know that blueberries are a secret government plot to make the people automatons?! It's true! Blueberries and yogurt are causing the downfall of mankind. The sponges are in on it too! All hail the purple mist alien overlords!"
Feel free to chase the crazy person, as they will hopefully be running away. The true whackjobs, will not. You will now have a new best friend. Yay!
I can't wait until next week, when we will undoubtedly discuss balls, office gossip, what insipid thing Palin said, and whatever dirty things pop into our heads again. Hopefully, there won't be Nuns to keep us from really letting go this time....
Thursday, October 02, 2008
Babies
There seems to be an exploding baby vortex swirling around me lately. I know of at least 5 people having kidlettes in the next 6 months. It's craziness! But, it gives me an excuse to knit wee adorable things, so it's all good.
On Tuesday, I ran out of balled yarn to knit my sweater sleeves. My winder was at work, and I wasn't. I should have worked on my Mittens of Brownness, but eh, I wasn't feeling it. I also knew that I had a baby deadline looming, so a little bitty kiddy thingy popped on the needles.
Name: bibsy
Pattern: Baby Bib O' Love, from Mason Dixon Knitting
Yarn: Sugar and Cream Ombre (stashbusting!)
Needles: Susan Bates US6
Notes: Quick little things these bibs are. Literally, it only took about 2 hrs to knit this. Picking a button was harder than the knitting.
If I were to make another one, which I most likely will, I would not knit it in garter stitch. I would do a pattern of some sort. The garter is fine, but tres' boring.
I made this little piece of cuteness for WifeMomknitter's Sister's new baby. (whew. that's a lot of explanation.) I hope she likes it as much as I do. I kind of want to make one for me. I'm a slop most of the time.
On Tuesday, I ran out of balled yarn to knit my sweater sleeves. My winder was at work, and I wasn't. I should have worked on my Mittens of Brownness, but eh, I wasn't feeling it. I also knew that I had a baby deadline looming, so a little bitty kiddy thingy popped on the needles.
Name: bibsy
Pattern: Baby Bib O' Love, from Mason Dixon Knitting
Yarn: Sugar and Cream Ombre (stashbusting!)
Needles: Susan Bates US6
Notes: Quick little things these bibs are. Literally, it only took about 2 hrs to knit this. Picking a button was harder than the knitting.
If I were to make another one, which I most likely will, I would not knit it in garter stitch. I would do a pattern of some sort. The garter is fine, but tres' boring.
I made this little piece of cuteness for WifeMomknitter's Sister's new baby. (whew. that's a lot of explanation.) I hope she likes it as much as I do. I kind of want to make one for me. I'm a slop most of the time.
Wednesday, October 01, 2008
You know, with a brim...
In my life as a knitter I have made plenty of objects with a smattering of oddness, or less than usual special requirements. (the socks "with you know, holes" spring to mind) So, I was only slightly befuddled when my friend Darren wanted a hat, you know, with a brim.
"A brim?" I said, "Like a part that folds up?"
"Well sure, that would be fine."
"Is that what you meant?"
"well, no." he said, "I meant a brim. Like a baseball cap."
"Oh. So you want a knit base ball cap?"
"No. like a knit hat, you know, with a brim."
"Oh." I said."Ok. I've seen hats like that before."
"Can it have a cool graphic on it?"
"Sure. You want a knit hat, with a brim, and cool graphics."
"In guy colors. I don't wear bright colors."
"Ok.... a black and "something else manly" hat, with a brim, and with cool graphics."
"Yes." he said, "but not wool. It's hot in Florida."
One would think at this point I would say "forget it." Instead, I accepted the challenge. The results are pretty good!
Name: Darren's Hat
Pattern: my own, with a smattering of inspiration from other places
Yarn: Berroco Comfort DK in 2734 and 2747, 1 ball each
Needles: HiyaHiya circs, size 5
Notes: Ummm... this is one giant cluster fuck of a hat. I tried to find a pattern to make a ski cap with a brim. Evidently, even thought these are in stores all over, no knitters have made a pattern for one yet. SO I was flying blind. How hard can it be? My original idea was to cast on at the brim, do some stripes, then work in short rows for the brim, leaving it open to insert a "stiffener", knit up the hat - inserting "cool graphic" before closing up the top, inserting brim thing, and sewing up the brim hole. Yeah. I made it to "do some stripes". I tried three times to knit a short row brim effectively. It looked like a giant toe off the front of the hat.
Instead, I left a giant button hole and decided to figure it out later.
Hat knitting commenced, and I stole this color work graphic from "Son of Stitch 'n Bitch".
The brim was another story. In addition to the three short row brims, I also knit two other brims before just saying "fuck it" and going with this one. Its kind of a smattering of three directions from different knit baseball cap patterns. Then I had to sew that damn thing up. This took as long as knitting the whole freakin' hat! I crocheted, I sewed, I seamed, I almost stapled. I finally went back to crocheting.
I guess it looks ok. The brim "stiffener" is literally a brim. Dollar stores rock. I ripped that sucker off another hat and inserted it into my hat. I like shortcuts. The only down side was that when I went to sew the brim into the hat, it became obvious that I was going to have a very floppy brim unless I stitched the fabric brim into the seam as well. Sigh. One sewing machine and 10 minutes later, I was finally brimmed. I would not say this technique is easy. In fact, I would not recommend it to anyone. Maybe someone I don't like, but that's another story.
Anywho... I like the yarn. It was a challenge to find an easy care - cause its for a guy- yarn, in "manly colors". Oh, and that I wanted to knit with. Life is too short for squeaky yarn. The Comfort DK was nice. It almost feels like it has some soy silk, or bamboo in it. I would use it again. If I were to make this hat again, I'd use wool. Because I like wool better.
I'm shipping the hat off today to Florida. Hopefully he'll like it, or at least have the decency to lie to me and say he likes it. If he doesn't, he can send it right back, 'cause I have a dozen people here who want it!
"A brim?" I said, "Like a part that folds up?"
"Well sure, that would be fine."
"Is that what you meant?"
"well, no." he said, "I meant a brim. Like a baseball cap."
"Oh. So you want a knit base ball cap?"
"No. like a knit hat, you know, with a brim."
"Oh." I said."Ok. I've seen hats like that before."
"Can it have a cool graphic on it?"
"Sure. You want a knit hat, with a brim, and cool graphics."
"In guy colors. I don't wear bright colors."
"Ok.... a black and "something else manly" hat, with a brim, and with cool graphics."
"Yes." he said, "but not wool. It's hot in Florida."
One would think at this point I would say "forget it." Instead, I accepted the challenge. The results are pretty good!
Name: Darren's Hat
Pattern: my own, with a smattering of inspiration from other places
Yarn: Berroco Comfort DK in 2734 and 2747, 1 ball each
Needles: HiyaHiya circs, size 5
Notes: Ummm... this is one giant cluster fuck of a hat. I tried to find a pattern to make a ski cap with a brim. Evidently, even thought these are in stores all over, no knitters have made a pattern for one yet. SO I was flying blind. How hard can it be? My original idea was to cast on at the brim, do some stripes, then work in short rows for the brim, leaving it open to insert a "stiffener", knit up the hat - inserting "cool graphic" before closing up the top, inserting brim thing, and sewing up the brim hole. Yeah. I made it to "do some stripes". I tried three times to knit a short row brim effectively. It looked like a giant toe off the front of the hat.
Instead, I left a giant button hole and decided to figure it out later.
Hat knitting commenced, and I stole this color work graphic from "Son of Stitch 'n Bitch".
The brim was another story. In addition to the three short row brims, I also knit two other brims before just saying "fuck it" and going with this one. Its kind of a smattering of three directions from different knit baseball cap patterns. Then I had to sew that damn thing up. This took as long as knitting the whole freakin' hat! I crocheted, I sewed, I seamed, I almost stapled. I finally went back to crocheting.
I guess it looks ok. The brim "stiffener" is literally a brim. Dollar stores rock. I ripped that sucker off another hat and inserted it into my hat. I like shortcuts. The only down side was that when I went to sew the brim into the hat, it became obvious that I was going to have a very floppy brim unless I stitched the fabric brim into the seam as well. Sigh. One sewing machine and 10 minutes later, I was finally brimmed. I would not say this technique is easy. In fact, I would not recommend it to anyone. Maybe someone I don't like, but that's another story.
Anywho... I like the yarn. It was a challenge to find an easy care - cause its for a guy- yarn, in "manly colors". Oh, and that I wanted to knit with. Life is too short for squeaky yarn. The Comfort DK was nice. It almost feels like it has some soy silk, or bamboo in it. I would use it again. If I were to make this hat again, I'd use wool. Because I like wool better.
I'm shipping the hat off today to Florida. Hopefully he'll like it, or at least have the decency to lie to me and say he likes it. If he doesn't, he can send it right back, 'cause I have a dozen people here who want it!
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