wannabe

The Bucket's List

2008-09-30T08:02:00.007-07:00

Everyone that knows me, knows that I love to support small indie businesses. It all started when I discovered Etsy a few years ago. I developed a real love for buying gifts for people from my favorite shops and feeling really good about giving my hard earned money to someone that was passionate about creating at home. Whether it be a stay-at-home mom or a singleton supplementing their income or a creative genius sharing their craft with the world, I decided that giving and buying indie is the best thing since (whole wheat) sliced bread. And I've never turned back.

Even better than JUST supporting indie, is supporting someone you KNOW that is an indie shop owner. Case in point, my girl, Krys. We met when she came to our knitting group a little over a year ago. We hit it off almost immediately. We had a lot in common, shared the same sense of humor, views on mommyhood (ha!) and of course, our love of fiber and knitting. She's since become one of my dearest friends. So, when she decided to open up her Etsy store, Gherkin's Bucket ....I was all about it and started buying my first handspun yarns right away.

Her business has evolved quite a bit since she opened earlier this year. She not only dyes her own fiber in luxurious blends such as merino/cashmere/nylon, 22 micron merino, organic merino, baby alpaca/merino and merino/seacell, but she spins them into lofty, gorgeous yarns. She also just recently started kettle dyeing merino superwash worsted and bulky and will soon carry merino superwash fingering....all of which are conventionally spun yarns. You get the best of both worlds....handspun AND conventional yarns all in one awesome shop.

Recently I worked on some knitted projects with some of her handspun....

First up, Highly Regarded Mitts by the one and only Gherkin herself.

These were done in her Fat Grasshoppa colorway in superwash merino bulky and only used about 80 yards for the entire pair! You could get 2 pairs out of one skein of this yarn!

Next up was the Beech Wood Cowl by Ilga Leja.

I made this with her merino/tencel blend in Charmed. It was LOVELY to work with and the stitch definition is incredible!

Some of the other pretties in my stash are:

Baby Alpaca/Merino in Honesty

80/10/10 Merino/Cashmere/Nylon in Ching Ching

Superwash Merino in Verve

Pretty, eh? You can get your own Gherkin's Bucket yarns here ON SALE! She's offering 15% off everything in her shop right now as a fall sale!

And congrats to Krys for being featured yesterday on Lime and Violet's Etsy Shop of the Day!

A Labor of Love

2008-09-11T08:06:00.004-07:00

I know it's been a while. I've been busy knitting. And living. And haven't felt much like blogging. Until now.

My auntie, my mom's sister, was diagnosed with brain cancer last year. She went into remission for a while and then earlier this year, her cancer returned. Feeling helpless and so very far away, I had to do something. Something. I couldn't be there with her in person, so I decided to do the only thing I really knew how to do to show her how much I love her and wish I could be with her. I got out my needles, some very special yarn, and went to work.

My original plan was to knit this for Ravelympics in 18 days. I needed a goal to get thru such a lofty project and Ravelympics was just the ticket. Even though it took me 29 days (with a few breaks in between) instead of my goal of 18, I'm completely and totally satisfied and really, really proud of what my hands created for someone I love so much.

I really hope she feels every prayer, tear, hope and every ounce of love that went into each and every stitch. I hope it warms her shoulders and her heart. I hope that she knows how very much she is loved. I hope she knows that if I could, I would rather wrap her in my arms than in a shawl. I hope this finds her well and with hope. I love you, Aunt June.

Specs:
Pattern: Leaf Lace Shawl by Evelyn A. Clark for Fiber Trends
Yarn : The Plucky Knitter Merino/Silk Laceweight
Needles: KP Options size 5
Size: small with lace repeats

I blame it all on Ravelry...

2008-07-25T17:30:00.008-07:00

I've been kind of absent lately and I blame it all on Ravelry. It's just too easy to upload projects and yarn directly to Ravelry instead of posting here....but I'm going to try to get better. I have a lot to blog about, just need the patience to do it.

I've been up to a few things since I last blogged....the yummiest was a knitting retreat in Greer, Arizona with my knitting grrrls. We stayed in a beautiful cabin up in the mountains. The weather was absolutely gorgeous with rain and thunder and the highs in the 60's during the day. I know to some this sounds absolutely dreadful, but it's no picnic living in Phoenix in the summertime, so rain and cool weather are what we want. It also makes for delish knitting weather. We spent our time cooking yummy meals, knitting, spinning, talking, sharing, watching movies and bonding. I love my knitting group so much and it was great to spend a weekend away with them. Next time, we did decide to stay a little closer to home and to extend our stay. The 4 hour drive and only 1 full day wasn't quite enough...but it was fun, just the same. You can see my whole Flickr set of photos from the trip here.

While we were there, Gherkin and I decided to cast on for our first sweater...The February Lady Sweater. We chose the same yarn, got our gauge down pat before leaving home and were ready to cast on when we got there. All was well until my row gauge and hers were really different and my buttonholes were spaced 1.5 inches apart when the pattern stated that they were to be 2.5 inches apart...um....what to do. When I got home I finished the raglan increases and tried it on...the size I picked is perfect but I'm still not sure if I should rip and redo spacing the buttonholes at 2 inches or if I should keep going and see how it looks. Right now I'm ignoring her...she lives in the bottom of my knitting bag. But she is pretty....

For my mindless knitting in Greer, I chose to cast on for another pair of socks for myself in Yarn Chef Minestrone sock yarn. HEAVEN. This is the softest, most buttery, delicious sock yarn EVER and the striping...the glorious striping. Take a gander at my first finished sock.

I'm calling these bad boys my Rice Dream Puddle socks. The colorway name is Ice Cream Puddle, but, you know, I'm dairy-free IRL so I had to mix it up a bit. I'm anxious to cast on for the second one, but first, I promised The Mister a pair of socks too...so I cast on for The Gentleman's Fancy Sock in Railway Stitch from Knitting Vintage Socks. I'm using the yarn he picked for the pattern which is Dream in Color Smooshy in Cocoa Kiss. I think he chose well.

Be back soon...I promise...with more sock results as well as a yummy cookie recipe and a Ravelympics project. Have a super weekend.

Close but no cigar...

2008-07-07T12:43:00.006-07:00

Last year, my knitting goal was to understand the anatomy of a sock and to be really comfortable knitting them. To find out what yarns I liked to knit them with, what needles I preferred and to figure out what heel and toe fit my foot the best. I succeeded and became obsessed with knitting socks. The love affair is still constant and beautiful, but I decided that I wanted to knit them with more consistency and that I was ready to take on some more advanced sock patterns.

I joined the Sock A Month KAL 5 which started this past January. The goal was to knit and post a pair a month...I did great....until the last pair. I finished a day late. At first, I was upset about it...feeling like I didn't meet the goal I set out to make, but then shortly realized that...well, that's not what knitting's all about. For me, it's my stress reliever, my social outlet and my little piece of heaven. I got over it and looked back at all the beautiful socks I knit over the past 6 months and was again, ever grateful that I'm a knitter. The people I've met, the things I've done, the skill I've gained, the peace it brings...it's not about the ultimate goal, but the ultimate feeling of joy that it brings into my life.

January

February

March

April

May

June

My June socks, finished July 2, are Hedgerows by Jane Cochran. I used Sundara Sock in Candied Chrome and size 1 Knit Picks Nickel Plated DPNs. This sock yarn was a DREAM to knit with!

So there it is....6 month's worth of socks. Socks I'm happy with. Socks I learned a lot about knitting from. I knit my first pair of lace socks during the past 6 months. I also used several new sock yarns that I'd never knit with before like Yarntini, Vesper, sKNITches, Dream in Color Smooshy and Sundara. I think that's a lot to be satisfied with.

I decided not to join the next 6 months of the KAL because I'm going to start on another knitting goal...one that's kind of well....FREAKED ME OUT....I'm going to knit my first sweater.

My sweet friend, Gherkin and I are going to knit Pamela Wynne's February Lady Sweater out of Cascade 220 on our knitting retreat to Greer this coming weekend. I did my swatch the other night and got gauge spot on!

I'm excited. A little nervous. And eagerly anticipating what this next goal will bring to my knitting....I have a sneaky suspicion it will be, stress relief, socialization with dear friends and my little piece of heaven.

In which I'm a selfish non-giver...

2008-06-13T09:50:00.003-07:00

Lipstick Jungle Cowl
Originally uploaded by wannabeknittin'

So I knit something. Something I love. Something I was going to gift to someone else...but it's not happening. I just can't part with it. I really shouldn't feel bad since I gift more than half of what I knit...but still. Today I feel like the selfish non-giver. I'll get over it.

Details:
Pattern: Gloria Cowl by Orinda5
Yarn: The Plucky Knitter Merino Fingering in Lipstick Jungle (held doubled)
Needles: KP Options size 8 6" circs
Mods: none
Outcome: L-O-V-E.

Cause, you know...I got no photos...

2008-06-04T15:04:00.006-07:00

I'll do a meme....

I was tagged (twice) by Miss Annie Knits and also by Miss Lamby Knits.

So here goes:

What was I doing 10 years ago?
~I had just moved to Phoenix from the Philadelphia area. I was working at a bank as a personal banker and had just met The Mister. :) My sister was also spending the summer here with us!

What are 5 things on my to-do list today?
~Laundry (this is on my list EVERYday..ACK!)
~Go to Ulta to get a new base coat and polish because I promised the Bug that we would paint toe nails (anyone know how hard it is to find formaldehyde-free base coat! OY!)
~Shop for a new purse (The Mister spilled pasta sauce ALL OVER mine the other day when we were out to eat!)
~Do a general pick up/straighten up around the house
~Fix a mistake in my Odessa Hat decreases that I messed up when I was too tired and knitting it at 11:30 last night!

Snacks I Enjoy:
Pretzels, Cascadian Farm Peanut Butter Chip Granola Bars, Chocolate (the darker the better), hummus and veggies

Things I would do if I were a millionaire:
~Pay off everything we owe
~Pay off everything my immediate family owes
~Buy a Mini Cooper with a British flag painted on the roof
~Buy my husband his dream car
~Open a yarn shop with a coffee bar with a hot barista
~Save for The Nut's education
~Donate a huge chunk to Rescue so they could build a new facility
~Move back East so I could be near my sisters

Places I have lived.
Connecticut
South Carolina
Pennsylvania
Arizona

Consider yourself tagged.

LOST my mojo....I thought...

2008-05-29T13:41:00.005-07:00

Notice the giant gap of time that I haven't blogged....well, it's for quite a lot of reasons! One being that we are in the midst of house hunting which is going...well, not very well...we just put an offer on a 4th...yes, 4th house the other day and are REALLY hoping this one doesn't become a huge bidding battle like the last 3 have. Oy.

The other reason I haven't posted is because I really thought I lost my knitting mojo. FOR REALS! Last month I cast on for 6 different socks/patterns and several cowls and nothing I knit was working. I put everything down for a bit and just took a breather. I'm happy to report that I finished a pair of socks and I'm over the moon for them. Take a gander....

Appropriate that I can call them my LOST socks, right? ;)

Specs:
Pattern: Penllyn by Wildhorse Farm Designs
Yarn: Yarntini Variegated Sock in the 4-8-15-16-23-42 aka Lost colorway
Needles: Size 1 Knit Picks Nickel DPNs
Mods to Pattern: I made the leg longer than the pattern called for (about 8 repeats and 7.5 inches) which almost caused me to run out of yarn! Eep! Luckily Miss Stacey was kind enough to send her leftovers.

In other Wannabe-land news, my baby...can I still call her that?....turned 4. Sniff, sniff. Since we are in limbo with moving, it was really hard to plan a party so we decided a mom and dad day would work well. The Mister took the day off of work and we spent it as a family, each doing one thing alone with her. In the morning, I took her to get her very first pedicure...where she picked orange nail polish (black was the first choice, but they didn't have any...) and flowers.

In the afternoon, the 'Nut went with her dad to the ice rink where he plays ice hockey for her first ice skating lesson. The Mister said she was a little leary at first but was able to skate around a bit. I think she liked it best when he was holding her and he skated.

We had such a fun day...

Up next in knitland...Slip Up Shropshire socks and more Christmas knitting. Happy almost weekend.

A sock I won't be wearing...

2008-04-16T09:34:00.004-07:00

My nephew's first birthday is this coming Saturday. Since I haven't met him yet...sniff, sniff, because he lives with his mama, my sister, over 3000 miles away, I wanted to do something really nice so he loves me to pieces when I do finally get to meet him this October. His mama is throwing a sock monkey themed birthday party and I offered to knit him his very own sock monkey. I hope he likes it.

Specs:
Pattern: Sockless Sock Monkey by Anita M. Wheeless
Yarn: Berroco Comfort DK in Bittersweet, Barley and True Red
Needles: Knit Picks Nickel DPNs size 3
Mods: I would have purchased 2 balls of this yarn for the main color if I was to make this again. I ran out and had to add a bit more cream than the pattern called for on this tail and have to do some of the sewing with chocolate colored floss.

A pair of drinks

2008-04-15T11:06:00.002-07:00

My thirsty socks are done. Mint Mocha Lattes are finally a pair. I hope she loves them.

Specs:
Pattern: 3x1 rib, slip stitch heel, "Charade" toe
Yarn: sKNITches Syncopation in Mint Mocha Latte
Needles: Knit Picks Nickel DPNs size 1
Recipient: My MIL for Mother's Day

Wee Tiny Things & Sock Yarn that Makes Me Thirsty

2008-03-30T08:56:00.004-07:00

I joined Emily's Wee Tiny Sock Swap after having a great time knitting for the Dish Rag Tag also hosted by Miss Yarn Miracle herself. I got the name of the person I was making the sock for on Friday night and in about an hour last night knit up this little sock. I love it. I made it out of The Plucky Knitter Merino Fingering in colorway Manor. Love.

I've also been knitting on my Mother-In-Law's socks. I can post these here because I know she doesn't read my blog. She's been hinting for a while about wanting a pair of handknit socks so I decided to knit her some for Mother's Day. It's pretty easy knitting these because we wear the same size shoe. She has a bit of a skinnier foot than I do so I just did the foot on 64 sts instead of my usual 68. They are turning out so cute. I'm using sKNITches Mint Mocha Latte dyed for me in a special order by Sam. I'm hoping to cast on for the second one tonight during the Mister's ice hockey playoff game. :)

Have a happy Sunday! The Mister and I have date night tonight. My MIL is taking the 'Nut overnight so we can go out to dinner and go to my man's hockey game...it's the first one I've been able to get to in 2 seasons so I'm really excited!

Smells like spring

2008-03-24T14:01:00.005-07:00

It's in the high 80's here in Phoenix right now and we are experiencing all that goes with it from open windows, cotton blankets at night, daffodils on the kitchen window ledge and best of all, springtime baking.

One of my very favorite vegan baking recipes so far has been this cake. It's the Coconut Lemon Bundt Cake from Veganomicon by Isa Chandra Moskowitz & Terry Hope Romero. I've made this in the bundt form and cupcake form. Both came out moist and delicious. This recipe is perfect for lemons fresh off the tree.

1 2/3 cups granualted sugar
2/3 cup canola oil
1 (14 oz can) Coconut milk (I used Trader Joe's 50% less fat)
1/4 cup rice or soy milk (I used Rice)
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
2 TBSp finely grated lemon zest
2 tsp pure vanilla extract
3 cups unbleached all-purpose flour
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
1 1/2 cups shredded or flaked unsweetened coconut (I used Bob's Red Mill Flaked)
A few TBSP confectioner's sugar for sprinkling

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Lightly grease an 8 or 10 inch bundt pan. (I think this makde 24 cupcakes when I made them that way)

In large mixing bowl, combine sugar, oil, coconut milk, rice milk, lemon juice and zest, and vanilla. Stir to combine.

Sift the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt into the wet ingredients in batches, mixing well after each addition. (I did this with a whisk) Fold in coconut.

Pour batter into bundt and bake for 1 hour, or until a knife comes out clean. (Cupcakes took about 18-22 minutes)

Remove from oven and let cool for about 10 minutes, then remove cake from bundt pan and let cool completely. Garnish with confectioner's sugar and coconut flakes. Enjoy!

Embossed Leaves Love

2008-03-19T10:01:00.004-07:00

I just finished these last night and I couldn't wait to take pics and say that they were done. I LOVED KNITTING THESE! It was my first time doing a lace and charted pattern and it was soooo much fun! I am thrilled with the fit on these and the yarn was a dream to work with. Without further ado, my Embossed Leaves aka My SAM KAL 5 March St. Patty's socks.

(click to make any picture bigger)

Specs:
Pattern: Embossed Leaves by Mona Schmidt from IK Winter 2005
Yarn: Dream In Color Smooshy in Happy Forest
Needles: Knit Picks DPNs in Size 1 1/2
Mods: I used the heel from this pattern from Favorite Socks, instead of the suggested short row heel in the magazine pattern. A big thanks to Melana for sharing.
Notes: I LOVE LOVE LOVE this sock yarn so much. This is my new fav. It's so beautiful...the pics couldn't do it justice and it is so soft and smooshy. I'm glad I have more in my stash!

Helllloooooo Bay-bee, oooo

2008-03-16T07:54:00.006-07:00

I can finally share the rest of the baby knits I worked on now that everything has been gifted.

First up, an Upside Down Daisy Hat for my friend, Stef who is due any day now.

Specs:
Pattern: Upside Down Daisy Hat by Susan B. Anderson from Itty Bitty Hats
Yarn: Knit Picks Swish DK in Petal, Pale Lemon & Asparagus
Needles: Addis Turbo US Size 6 16" circulars
Mods: The pattern suggested using a lighter weight yarn for the petals, but since I had this yarn in my stash, I just went with it. Because of this, I needed only 4 petals on top of that hat instead of the recommended 5 or 6.

Up next:

Yup, more Saartje's Booties. I seriously LOVE this pattern and think it makes the perfect baby gift! One of these went to a charity auction for a friend's son's school and the other was gifted to
the sweet new mama, Miss MaryMo.

Specs:
Pattern: Saartje's Booties by Saartje de Bruijn
Yarn: Yarntini Sport Weight in Pomtini
Needles: US 3 Clover
Mods: None

Last, but not least, a hat for Mary to go with the booties.

Specs:
Pattern: Bunny Tail Hat by Susan B. Anderson from Itty Bitty Hats (links above)
Yarn: Yarntini Sport in Pomtini
Needles: Knit Picks Circular US size 4 16"
Mods: None. Super quick and sweet pattern. I would totally knit this again!

In the spirit of babies, my blogless friend, Jess and I had a baby shower for our friend, Stef and I made, what else, cupcakes! This recipe was just too awesome not to share with you. Of course, these are 100% vegan and they were soooooooo good. Seriously one of the most delish recipes I have ever made! Recipe here.

Up next: Christmas gifts 08 and finished Embossed Leaves! Have an awesome rest of the weekend.

Strange Little Valentines

2008-02-28T10:53:00.006-07:00

I can't believe it's been almost a month since I posted...DOH! It seems I have less time lately to blog...or is it that I spend more time on Ravelry? :)

I thought I could share some baby knitting with you, but everything hasn't been received by the mamas yet, so I need to wait to share those, but in the meantime, check out my February Socks for SAM KAL 5!

I adored knitting these. It was my first time knitting with Vesper and boy was I pleased. I'm so glad I have another skein of her sock yarn in my stash!

Specs:
Pattern: 3x1 rib, 64 sts on the leg, 68 on the foot, slip stitch heel, "Charade" toe
Yarn: Vesper Superwash Wool/Nylon Blend in the StrangeLittleMama colorway
Needles: Size 1 Susan Bates DPNs

My socks for March are these babies...my first lace charted socks. The pattern is Embossed Leaves and I'm using another new-to-me sock yarn, Dream In Color Smooshy in Happy Forest.

More sock details, baby knits, vegan goodies (and recipes) and the cutest hat evah made for Miss Buggernut. Have a fabulous weekend!

Yoooohoooo, Wannabe...where are YOU?

2008-02-09T22:02:00.001-07:00

I'm here. I've just been preoccupied with a lot of things...and knitting like a mad banchee...everything right now is close to being finished but not interesting enough to photog. C'est la vie.

Most of my knitting right now is baby related. NOT MINE! Pa-lease. No more babies for me...evah! But it seems like everyone around me is ready to pop one out so I've been knitting little tiny, cute as a button things...which I WILL be sharing soon. Promise.

Speaking of baby knitting, Miss Sarah asked if I would do some more test knittng for her...very quickly. Like 3 days quickly. Seems these babies are going to be making the trek from Michigan to Seattle in time for Madrona next week.

Specs:
Pattern: Magic Slippers by Caroline Dlugy-Hegwer
Yarn: The Plucky Knitter Merino Fingering in Manor (multi-colored ones) & The Plucky Knitter Merino/Cashmere/Nylon in Tippi Blue (for the blue ones..ehem...dur)
Needle: Susan Bates DPNs size 1
Mods: None...but this is not a one hour miracle like it says in the pattern...unless you have 4 hands or something.

Can I please have your attention for one smidge of a second longer? A few people have emailed me since my decision to go vegan wondering what the heck I am eating and asking how hard it was to give up dairy, eggs, meat...well, check out these pics...this is a sample of how "hard" it is to go vegan. ;) (And yes, I'm eating more than just sinfully delish cupcakes...LOL!)

Cookies and Creme Cupcakes from Vegan Cupcakes Take Over the World

A dear friend suggested that I start taking pics of some of the stuff I'm making...so maybe I will. I have to tell you, I've never felt better in my ENTIRE LIFE.

Happy Weekend.

January Socks Fini!

2008-01-18T12:53:00.000-07:00

I finished a pair in just 15 days! This is a big deal for me since I very rarely have time to knit during the day and have just a few hours after the Buggernut is in bed at night.

Perfect with my Keens, no?

Specs:
Pattern: Charade by Sandra Park
Yarn: Merino Sock in Rum Runner (the first Booty Club shipment)
Needles: size 1 Susan Bates DPNs

Mods: I cast on 64 sts for the leg, but knit on 68 for the foot. I LOVE this pattern.

Up next: February KAL socks I'm naming Strange Little Valentines....want a peek?

Rum is goooooooood.

2008-01-09T10:10:00.000-07:00

Rum Runner that is. I am in love with this colorway. This is from the first Yarn Pirate Booty Club shipment back in August. These were destined to be Monkeys but I had sizing issues so they are becoming my second pair of Charades. Yarn Pirate Merino Sock works REALLY well with this pattern...I bet any variegated would too. One down, seocnd sock cast on...about 45% more to go. Looks like I'll make the January KAL goal I made for myself!

An End is Just A New Beginning

2008-01-07T14:49:00.000-07:00

Happy Belated New Year. I've been too busy knitting to post, but I finally made myself upload some pics and want to share my last FO's of 2007 with you.

I made a few pairs of arm/wristwarmers as gifts this year. I adore how they turned out.

Specs:
Pattern: Arm/Wrist Warmers from Last Minute Knitted Gifts
Yarn: Blue Pair - RYC Cashsoft DK - almost a full skein
Raspberry Paor - Noro Cash Iroha - 1/2 skein
Needles: Clover Size 6 8" circulars, Clover size 6 Bamboo DPNs
Mods: Made the blue pair one repeat longer which is why it took almost a full skein

I'm made 5 pairs of these now and I REALLY need to make a pair for me. They are super fast and easy!

And the recipients loved them!

(The Hubster's sister got the blue pair)

(and my wonderful MIL got the raspberry pair!)

I also knitted up something for me, but then decided that I was indeed allergic to alpaca (at least in the adult state) and gifted this to my sister, Sara (the one that got the Plucky Cashmere Cowl) instead.

Specs:
Pattern: Luxe Neckwarmer from Knit2Together
Yarn: Misti Alpaca Chunky
Needles: Size 10.5 16" Clover Bamboo DPNs
Shout out: To Sarah for the idea to make this pattern after 2 failed attempts with this yarn

In other knitting news, failed attempts were rampant around here during the holidays...most disappointing was a pair of Purl Free Monkeys I was working on that were just a little to tight...but oh so pretty.

This was ripped out and is becoming a pair of Charades. The yarn is Yarn Pirate Rum Runner from the first Booty Club installment. I must admit, one sock is done and it was a really good decision to rip the Monkey and start fresh. My next pair will be some Monkeys though. :)

In other news, I have made a HUGE lifestyle change that began before the New Year actually. I have needed to go dairy-free for some time now for health reasons, so I finally bit the bullet, cleaned out the fridge and cupboards (you have no idea how much stuff has milk product in it!) and started beginning my new adventure eating differently. I have cut out dairy, eggs, caffeine and meat and am basically considered vegan now. In the last 2 weeks, I have seen tremendous improvements in my body. I've lost over 5 lbs, my skin is clearer, my severe, nasty, bleeding eczema is GONE and I have more energy than I've ever had. I feel great! I'm actually having a really awesome time meal planning, shopping and cooking too because I have a challenge. So far everything I've made has exceeded my expectations. Vegan living is swell!

I hope this extremely long post finds everyone well and happy and enjoying your fresh start...be back with sock pics soon!

Wrap me up in love....and cashmere.

2007-12-28T08:28:00.000-07:00

Can I gush a moment? Okay, again? About Plucky yarn? Every single time I knit with her yarn I fall in love more and more....each base is uniquely beautiful and knits up like a dream. And the colorways...oh, the colorways...pure artistic genius. Now, I know Miss Sarah and I are girlfriends, but seriously, I would not say this unless I meant it...and boy do I EVAH! Go...quickly. Buy some.

Now, let me share another project knit up with Plucky Yarn. Cashmere, to be exact. I bought this yarn several months back with the idea to make my sister, Sara, a cowl for Christmas.

Oh yummmmmmmmy. This was the softest thing I have ever knit up. My sister told me that she has never felt anything so soft and lovely against her skin. I believe it. I'm so glad I have another skein of this in my stash!

Specs:
Yarn: The Plucky Knitter 2 ply Cashmere Laceweight in Basil Bliss
Needles: Size 8 16" KnitPicks Options Circulars (love these too!)
Pattern: Purl Cashmere Cowl from The Purl Bee blog
Mods: I cast on 110 sts on this...but you could increase or decrease this number based on how large you want the cowl opening to be.

Pink Happiness

2007-12-24T08:08:00.000-07:00

I hope everyone is having a wonderful Christmas season. We sure are. It's been a while since I posted because everything I've been knitting has been a gift for a blog reader. :) Now that some of the gifties have been opened, I can finally share what I've been working on.

Up today, my sister, Embee's Christmas scarf. I can't say enough about how much I enjoyed working on this project. The yarn was purchased with my sister in mind from WEBS in August. Thanks to Ravelry, I found the perfect pattern and my favorite scarf ever was born. Take a look-see. :)

Specs:
Pattern: One Row Handspun Scarf by Stephanie Pearl-McPhee (aka The Yarn Harlot)
Yarn: Malabrigo Worsted in Rosa Vivacity
Needles: US 9 straigths - Susan Bates
Mods: none....just added fringe

I hope everyone has a great day tomorrow. I'll be back to post more holiday knitting projects on Wednesday. Blessings.

Martie's a spazz!

2007-12-06T11:48:00.000-07:00

Good ole Martie. Freaking spazz. Where the heck does she think of these things? Or pay people to think up these things? (Sorry, Kel, I know how much you luff her!) Let me tell you... NOT a project to do with your 3 year old unless they are the type that sits quietly while their mother curses Miss Martie to high heavens while pasting with crap craft glue. I'm assuming it's HER brand. I'm all for domestic endeavors, but not when one takes 3 HOURS and is MISSING PIECES. Ah, 'tis the season....but it did turn out cute...including the Little People Reindeer and Noah's Ark sheep, eh?

Kaffe Fassett Socks

2007-12-03T09:50:00.000-07:00

Well I didn't finish them on the 30th of November in time for SAM4 KAL even though I tried to knit every free second that I had, but they will count for December as I finished them in the wee hours of the morning on the 1st. :)

Almost matching stripes. :)

That's some striping love. Yum. I wore these all day yesterday and they were super comfy.

Specs:
Yarn: Regia Kaffe Fassett in Landscape Fire
Needles: Size 0 Susan Bates DPNs
Pattern: 2x2 Rib, Slipped Stitch Heel, French Toe - 64 sts for the leg, 68 on the foot
Overall: Love how they turned out...didn't really love the yarn so much. It is splitty when you have to rip back and is kind of scratchy while knitting with it. But the overal result is totally worth it.

Melody

2007-11-30T14:24:00.000-07:00

Finally, Melody has been gifted and I can show her to you ON MY MOM! :) I gave her to my mom over Thanksgiving holiday. This is one project that I was glad to be done with but learned a lot from. It was my first attempt at steeking which was exhilarating and scary all at the same time.

Without further ado, Melody.

Specs:

Yarn: HPY Laceweight in Coral Rojo
Needles: Addi Turbo Size 9 32 inches
Pattern: Melody Shawl by Morehouse Farm
Mods: I blocked this a little bit larger than the directions because my mom is taller than I am. If I ever made another one, I would also knit it wider....say 20" versus 16".

Happy weekend. It's dreary, rainy and lovely outside and I'm on a mad dash to finish up my second Kaffe Fassett sock. Can I do it?

Finishing Feels Gooooooooooood

2007-11-25T08:25:00.001-07:00

I hope everyone had a very nice Thanksgiving holiday. This is usually the time of year that totally stresses me out, but I'm actually quite a bit ahead of my goals this year with Christmas knitting. This past week I took out several Christmas projects that needed some finishing work and went for it. The feeling of accomplishment was awesome.

First up: Meathead for my niece. I knit this up this past summer in anticipation of giving this to her for Christmas. I never finished embellishing it. StarSpry was kind enough to send me a link to a flower pattern that was for a handbag on MagKnits and it worked perfectly on this.

I used Brown Sheep Lamb's Pride Bulky for the Hat and Rowan Handknit DK Cotton for the flower. For the embellishment I used a vintage flower button from my mom's button jar to secure the flower to the hat.

I love how it turned out. :)

Next up: Dad's Triple Cable Muffler. This was super fast and yummy. I think a lot of my love for this scarf is the yarn which is The Plucky Knitter Merino Worsted in Earnshaw. Yum.

I also finished the mini pumpkins from this post this week. These were so easy peasy and the results were fantastic. I plan on making a ton of these next year.

It also looks like I might make my SAM4 KAL goal this month....I was a total slacker last month and didn't finish a pair. These are for me...and I'm using Regia Kaffe Fassett sock yarn in Landscape Fire. I'm doing a simple K2P2 rib. I'm done with sock #1 and sock #2 was cast on during Thanksgiving and is at the heel turn right now. I WILL finish these this week!

I'm down to my last "required" Christmas gift. I really gave myself a tangible goal this year because I was tired of my knitting feeling like a chore during the holidays. This year I only knit for people that I know love receiving handknit gifts. Now that I will have some more time to knit before Christmas, I plan on kicking out a few pairs of knitted slippers and wristwarmers.
How are you coming along on your Christmas knitting?

***Melody was also finished and gifted to my mom yesterday. Pics on the next post.

Happy Thanksgiving

2007-11-22T07:35:00.001-07:00

Miniature Felted Pumpkins by Wool Winder
Yarn: Cascade 220 in Orange, Chocolate Brown and Light Orange

These littles will be part of a gift basket I made for my aunt to bring as a hostess gift to her home today. Happy Thanksgiving everyone. I hope you have a wonderful day filled with love, family and lots of yummy food.

Plucky Love and a Heat Wave

2007-11-05T11:23:00.000-07:00

Just in time for Miss Plucky coming to visit in AZ, we are having record breaking temps. It's supposed to be 93 degrees today. HELP ME. Someone save me! AHHHHHHHH! It makes it hard to really get into Christmas knitting, but I'm plugging along.

Case in point: Triple Cable Muffler for my dad for Christmas. The pattern is from One Skein and I'm knitting it out of heaven....oh, I mean...buttah....uh, clouds of marshmallow fluffiness that is The Plucky Knitter Merino Worsted in Earnshaw. This mother is hard to photo...I tried several different lights and rooms in the house and these were the best I got. I think this might be better photo'ed outside next time. These pics don't do this yarn justice...it is gorgeous!

I did finish one Kaffe Fassett sock after settling on the flat toe from Knitting Vintage Socks and also finished knitting and steeking Melody. Pics soon.

Boo!

2007-11-01T08:21:00.000-07:00

How was your Halloween? We don't trick or treat over here yet....combination of us not allowing Miss Buggernut to eat a lot and candy and because the Hubster had to work. But we still got into the spirit.

Exhibit A: Dorky, cheesy grin pictures in 100 degree heat at the pumpkin patch. Yes, you read that right. 100 degrees. We pretty much live in hell.

Exhibit B: Carving pumpkins with Daddy, while Mommy sat and knit a sock (instead of working on the mounting pile of Christmas knitting) and drank a glass of merlot. The 'Nut named her pumpkin, Cat. I'm not seeing the resemblance. Whatevs.

Exhibit C: Getting a super cute haircut. (More than one pic just for you Sarie!)

Exhibit D: Making vegan vanilla cupcakes with vegan chocolate "buttercream" frosting and topping them with non-vegan (ehem) sprinkles. Recipe is from Vegan Cupcakes Take Over the World. These are the BEST cupcakes evah. Cupcake liners are from Martha Stewart at Michael's...they probably have some on clearance now that you can get for next year. I can't wait to see the Christmas ones!

And if I hadn't started decreasing the toe on my current sock (aka The Christmas Avoidance Project) too quickly, I would have some sock pics to show you. Does anyone have a favorite toe "recipe" that you want to share? Sometimes I do a regular toe...you know....knit to the last stitch, K2tog and then K1....followed by k1, ssk. Lately I've been doing the toe from the Charade sock pattern...it's a bit different....but since I have to rip back on this sock, I'd like to try something different. Any suggestions?

I knit something for me...

2007-10-26T19:10:00.000-07:00

Yes, I needed a break from the Christmas knitting, so I whipped up something quick and fun for ME! My sweet friend (who I will meet in person for the first time EVAH in 15 DAYS!!! WOOOOOOHOOOO!), Plucky Sarah sent me some yummy yarn from FeltStudio UK and I had to knit with it. Amazing stuff. I can't believe all these different textures of yarn are all spun into one gorgeous skein.

(close up of the yummy goodness)

(Modeling in the 90 degree AZ heat....this is the last time you will see long curls...chop, chop tomorrow!)

(I adore these colors!)

(How hard is it to take a picture of yourself? VERY. I resorted to the mirror...complete with spots...to give you an idea of how long it is with it wrapped around my neck twice)

Basic Recipe:
Cast on how many ever stitches you want it to be width-wise...I think I did about 13
Knit garter stitch on size 19 needles (I felt like I was knitting with friggin' salad spoons!)
Knit until you have enough yarn to bind off. Bind off loosely.

All I've been doing lately is super secret Christmas knitting. I did needle felt for the first time last weekend but I need to perfect the thing because it looks more like an orange than a pumpkin. Pics in a few days.

Have a super weekend!

Grateful Friday, Happy Anniversary & Another Birthday!

2007-10-12T15:15:00.001-07:00

So it's been a while since I did a Grateful Friday post so...

My knitting grrrrrls...they make me laugh. My heart swells when I laugh...I need that....and they give it. We had such a fun night last night. :)
My kiddo. She is grateful and thankful for everything. Today she thanked me for cleaning her pants for heaven's sake. She is such a sweetie. She stretches me and makes me want to be more like her everyday.
My man. For working so hard for the Buggernut and I.
My sisters. They are the first ones I want to call when I'm happy, sad, mad...anything...cause I know that they will always be there for me.
Having an awesome birthday and anniversary.
Knitting. It centers me and feeds my creative brain.
Baking cookies with my kiddo this week. We had such a good time...and combined a math lesson at the same time.
Having the windows open every morning this week! WHAT WHAT...heeeeelllllloooo fall.

And...I want to wish a very special Happy Anniversary to my brother, C and his wife of 1 year this weekend, T. She also celebrates her 31st birthday this coming Monday! Hope you guys have a happy one. :)

Maybe they will knit together someday?

2007-10-11T14:52:00.000-07:00

The knit grrrls with youngsters got together today at the park for some playtime, Halloween foam house decorating and feasting on Michelle's yummy pumpkin cookies. :)
Left to Right: Spiffy's K, my Buggernut, Spiffy's A, Gherkin's B, Michelle's N, Michelle's niece M, and Michelle's J

The 'Nut with her decorated Haunted House. :)

Not a lot of knitting was done...or crocheting for that matter...but that will take place later tonight when the mamas get together for dinner and knitting. Who knows, maybe our kiddos will end up knitting together someday. For now, I'm grateful that the Nut has some awesome littles to hang out with...and I'm grateful for their mama's friendship. See what knitting does? It brings people together. :)

(all pics are clickable to make larger and are courtesy of Michelle and Gherkin)

31 and 8 years

2007-10-09T15:49:00.000-07:00

It's been a busy week over here. Much knitting has gone on...but it's all Christmas knitting. DRAT! So no pictures for a while around here...unless I can sneak in some fun knitting for me.

This past week I celebrated my 31st birthday. It was one of the best birthdays in years. The hubster took the day off, allowed me to sleep in and took care of the 'Nut, made me a homemade breakfast, took the 'Nut out for 3 hours in the afternoon so I could knit and watch a movie in peace, gave me the BEST SHOES EVER, and took me out for a yummy dinner. Couldn't ask for more.

Today is our 8th wedding anniversary. We aren't doing anything much today except I'm cooking a really nice dinner...organic balsamic chicken, mashed garlic red potatoes, fresh organic green beans paired with a really nice white Australian wine and chocolate mousse torte for dessert. We had talked about watching our wedding video...we'll see. Next week my MIL is taking the 'Nut for her first sleepover at Grandma's house so we can go out to a nice dinner and movie and have a night alone. I'm SO looking forward to that.

(yes, clear braces...LOL!)

It's amazing to me the changes in our lives in 8 years. We've had good times and bad but have proved that we can make it thru anything as long as we love each and want to make it work. I love you Bri...and look forward to celebrating many more. Mwah.

Happy Fall

2007-09-30T11:05:00.001-07:00

Plucky Booties

2007-09-22T17:45:00.000-07:00

An FO! An FO! Hark!

I made these beauties as a test knit for Sarah aka The Fabulous Plucky Knitter for her upcoming LYS event. I knit them and then she added these beautiful orange and white vintage buttons. Aren't they adorable? Oy!

Can we talk about this yarn for a moment? It is TO.DIE.FOR. This is her sport weight superwash merino in Tippi Blue (named after Tippi Hedron, of course). I have knit with many a yarn in my day...and let me tell you...this stuff is at the top of my list. I'm not just saying this because Miss Sarah is one of my favorite people in the universe either...this stuff is top notch. So, go buy some. Support an indie dyer. Once you do, you'll be addicted like me. And you won't regret it.

Bow to the Gherkin

2007-09-21T19:05:00.001-07:00

Check out these cupcakes that Miss Gherkin made for knitting last night. How awesome is she? I lent her my fav cupcake cookbook of all time and she made the vegan vanilla cupcake recipe along with vegan chocolate buttercream frosting and then decorated with the most awesome marzipan evah. I mean EVAH! More details at her blog.

Knitting content soon. I promise!

Recovering and Knitting

2007-09-08T15:23:00.000-07:00

Thank you so much for all the well wishes on my surgery. I'm doing REALLY well and go back for my post op appt this coming Tuesday. I'm so glad to have that over with. I was really scared and so happy that I had a great support system to help me pull thru.

I tried to knit a lot during my week in a post-anesthesia haze but everything I started has now been frogged. The Eagles socks just weren't knitting up right and then I cast on for another pair of Charades but didn't like the yarn with the pattern. Urg.

I've cast on for a Christmas gift and I can't talk too much about it because the person it is for sometimes reads...welcome to "pre-holiday I will blog less than I already do because I knit so many gifts and most of the recipients read my blog"
at Wannabe.

This is the Melody Shawl by Morehouse Farms in HandpaintedYarn Laceweight Coral Rojo. Sarah inspired me to knit this and I have to say, I'm quite enjoying it. It will be my first time trying steaking too! This is my first official lace project so I'm glad it's an easier one. It was a bugger to cast on all those stitches and not twist them on the first row but after a few tries and a few needle changes (I went with Addis) it worked.

And of course, I HAVE to have a pair of socks to work on, I'm going to cast on for a pattern written by one of my fellow SnB knitters, blogless Tristan, called Fall Pinecone Pattern in this gorgeous Sunshine Yarns Superwash in Fall Leaves. I've had this in my stash for over a year and finally found the most perfect pattern to knit it up in.

And just because she is adorable....the Buggernut decided that her Cars needed to look out at the beautiful sunshine the other morning. Bet they didn't think they were getting the lovely view of the cat litter containers on the back patio when they signed up for that one. ;)

I'm hoping to be back this week with some progress pics...especially on the socks!

Socks and Surgery

2007-08-26T16:42:00.001-07:00

Hey all. Missed you. I've been reading but not posting much. We've been busy around here...and so the knitting has suffered...but I do have a few FO's to show you. SAM4 KAL has kept me motivated to keep up with making a pair of socks a month...this month I squeezed in two pairs though and cast on for a 3rd!

Specs:
Pattern: Garter Rib from Sensational Knitted Socks by Charlene Schurch
Yarn: Trekking XXL in Color #101
Needles: Susan Bates Aluminum DPN's Size 1
Size: Woman's Medium size 8 64 stitches

I LOVED working with Trekking. It never split, worked up beautifully and the stripey affect was so neat to watch as it knit up. I will definitely use this yarn again.

The other pair I completed was for my new niece, Kylie!

Specs:
Pattern: My own
Yarn: Leftover Yarn Pirate Rosie from my Charade Socks
Needles: Susan Bates Aluminum DPN's size 1

My next pair are for the Football Along at Ravelry. I had Scout custom dye some Philadelphia Eagles yarn for me last year and I'm finally knitting it up. I'm definitely going to knit on them tonight while I watch the Eagles plays against the Steelers!!

It will be quiet around here for a bit again. I'm having surgery tomorrow and will be mostly offline for the next week or so. Hopefully I have a few more FO's to show you then!

Wannabe Racin' & Choice Baldness

2007-08-06T14:14:00.000-07:00

I haven't been knitting much over here. Welcome to summer at Chez Wannabe. I'm lucky if I can get in a few sock rows lately and it's makin' me SAD. I miss just sitting and knitting. Soon I hope.

Emily over at Yarn Miracle started Dish Rag Tag back a few months ago. Heard of it? I instantly joined and was chosen by Em as a Team Captain. The race goes like this...a box arrives to your house. Inside there are 2 balls of dishcloth cotton (one that you keep and one that you use to knit up a dishcloth for the next person in your team), a knitted dish cloth (or rag, whatevs) and a surprise from the person that tagged you. Since I'm a Team Caption, I got the box for my team first. I call my team Wannabe Racin'. You can follow our progress on my sidebar! Ye-ah.

I got the box on Friday and was able to whip up my dishcloth and get the box shipped out to the next person in my team this morning. Turbo knitting. Lurve it.

This gorgeous mitered dishcloth was in my box along with a few really cute cookie cutters and a recipe for Shortbread. All this came from Emily. Here is a pic of the yummy dishcloth I got:

I whipped this beauty up for Gina, the next person on my team. The pattern is called Vine Lace Cloth and it's by S. M. Kahn over at smariek.

So I put this in the box along with 2 new skeins of dishcloth cotton, a surprise for my tagged person and instructions for the race. And had to add a little hello to the outside of the box like I encouraged my teammates to do:

I hope we win! We have a pretty good strategy so I think we will do great!

In other news, the 'Nut decided to have a date with a pair of scissors and diaper cream yesterday morning while I was still blissfully asleep. And then decided to clean up her mess with baby wipes. Ehem.
Here is the aftermath:

Yes, those are indeed bald spots. The joys of having a 3 year old. She informed me later in the day that she did it just like the lady did it...meaning the lady that cut her hair last time. Oy.

I was able to cover up most of the damage with a headband that Tink made her. Wanna make me a few more of these, Cheri?

Just Dishcloths

2007-07-27T12:51:00.000-07:00

Have you joined this group yet? Just Dishcloths

Well, then what are you waiting for? It was started by my girl, Spiff and is a spam-free group that gives you one knit and one crochet dishcloth pattern a month. She also spreads it out over 5 days which is really nice so you can just do a little a day and also make something useful and quick every month. Last month we made a cloth called the Spastic Checkerboard...I would show you a picture but um, I'm already using it.

The fabulous Tink made our group a little button which is beyond fab, so steal it (but please save to your server) and join the group. You'll love it.

Hello, pictures?

2007-07-26T12:32:00.000-07:00

That title is for my sister, Sara. Yeah.

So I've been a bit busy doing this...

...which is why blogging and knitting has been thrown to the wayside. We started homeschool preschool this past week. We aren't going turbo or anything...just spending an hour a day of structured time and then at least one activity in the morning each day.

This is The 'Nut's first try at writing her ABC's:

I think that's pretty amazing for a kid that turned 3 in May. The Mister reminded me that the alphabet ends in Z, not V when he saw this...pa-lease....we stopped when she was clearly getting overwhelmed. I'm all about a no pressure learning environment at this point. So after this we did some stories on animals and played with animal stickers on paper. We also played a game of Chutes and Ladders. That's pretty much the extent of what we are doing right now.
Today we went to the library and I let her pick out and fill a big bag full of books so instead of writing today we will just do an extra long story time and maybe color or do some puzzles. It's so fun watching her learn.

On the knitting front, I did finish Trekking sock #1. I was actually thinking about gifting these to my MIL for Christmas...that is until I tried them on...um, no. They ARE MINE MINE MINE! I'm going to cast on for the second sock tonight at knitting so they should qualify for the SAM4 KAL for August. WOOT! I was lucky to get Karen as my group leader (okay, that sounds like rehab or something)...I'm so lucky and want to make her proud. ;) Mwah.

I'm hoping to cast on for a Melody Shawl this weekend if I have some time and maybe start on a sweater...you know since it's only 100 degrees today. ;)

Green Week Days 4 & 5

2007-07-20T13:38:00.000-07:00

Overcommitting. This is my specialty. Like overcommitting on blogging on a week that I have so much going on.

Green Week Day 4: Those who inspire you to live more green

This is an easy one for me. It would be my good friend, Mikael. We met 7 years ago and I've mentioned here before on my blog...she has taught me so much about how to live more simply, live more earth friendly and even introduced me to cloth diapering with the diapers I have been using for 3 years (which incidently I ended up WORKING FOR the company that makes them several years back). I'm also inspired by the all the wonderful ideas here in the Flickr pool on how to live more green.

Green Week Day 5: A promise and a few more ideas

A few more ideas that I haven't brought up yet this week. Go in your bathroom or kitchen and tell me what natural products you use and what you think you can do to change what you use to be more earth friendly and cruelty-free to animals and the environment. There are so many small steps you can take.

To find beauty products that are cruelty-free you can visit: www.leapingbunny.org
To find cruelty-free, earth friendly products you can go here and visit Skin Deep: www.cosmeticsdatabase.com

Here are some products that I use and LOVE that pass both the tests:
Trader Joes Shaving Cream in Honey Mango (paraben free, cruelty-free, and vegetarian)
Trader Joes Moisture Shampoo and Conditioner (cruelty-free, organic, vegetarian and sodium lauryl/laureth sulfate free)
Burt's Bees Citrus and Ginger Root Body Wash(cruelty-free, paraben free and sodium lauryl/laureth sulfate free)

Please share some of your favorite natural products with me.

Kel posted a promise that I absolutely adored on her blog today so to round out Green Week I'm going to cut and paste it here:

My Promise
Dear Earth,
As your friend, I promise to consume (eat, drive, etc…) only when necessary. I promise to stop and actually smell the roses, notice the sunrise and be thankful for all of the natural beauty that surrounds my daily routine. I promise to vote for leaders who are thoughtful of you. I promise to shop locally and support small business. I promise to plant indigenous species. I promise to go to the pound when I want a pet and not a designer puppy warehouse. I promise to always work for peace first. I promise to use what I have, be thrifty, walk whenever possible, and scream from the mountaintops that we can change the tide. I promise to tread as lightly as possible.
xo

I hope this week has inspired you to look around you a little bit more, notice things that can benefit your health and the health of our planet and allow us to preserve our beautiful planet for generations to come.

Oh, and KNIT ON. After all, knitting is green too. It helps curb mass production. ;)

Green Week Days 2 & 3, COTW and a new sock

2007-07-18T13:57:00.000-07:00

Yeah so I meant to post yesterday and then got busy. Sorry ya'll.

Day 2 for Green Week was How to Use Less Water. This is something I'm really bad at. I take 20 minute showers, I do lots of laundry, I rarely turn off the faucet when I brush my teeth....ehem....I'm not so hippy-dippy when it comes to this. So help me! What do you do to conserve water? Give me some practical ideas besides setting a shower timer and turning off the faucet!

Day 3 for Green Week is Using Less.
This is a big one for me. Using less is something you REALLY have to think about on a daily basis. Some of the things we do are: use Klean Kanteens for our water instead of water bottles, running our ceiling fans 24/7 to help use less A/C, unplugging items that rarely get use, using cloth diapers and cloth grocery bags. There are so many ways to use less paper and plastic. If we have to use plastic, say to store our CSA produce, we reuse it. I label all the bags with what items I store in them and since I wash everything once it gets home there is no need to wash the bag between refilling.

What are some of the things you use less of?

I forgot to post this past week's cookie of the week so here goes:

Another cookie pizza. This time I made it on the Pampered Chef Pizza Stone and topped it with kiwi, starwberries and blueberries. We brought this out to my aunt's house when we went over for dinner this past weekend and it was a hit!

I started a new sock this week....Garter Rib from Sensational Knitted Socks in Trekking XXL color #100. I am LOVING this yarn. LOVING. It has a tight twist and doesn't split and the colors are so interesting as they are striping when knit up!

And the reason I can't keep knitting projects or yarn out in the open...Meet Levi, my 5 year old tuxedo cat...who ate the first sock I ever knit...and who loves yarn!

Kermit was SO wrong...

2007-07-16T13:34:00.001-07:00

when he said...it's not easy being green. It really is. Easy being green. In response to Kel's blog post about being green and trying to make the planet a better place to live in and to preserve what we have without being wasteful, I decided to join Green Week on Flickr.

Each day this week, in accordance with the "topic of the day", I will be posting something "green" that our family does with hopes to inspire you and give you new ideas to try yourself.

Today's topic is Using Less Paper.

Our family does recycle as much as we can even though we don't have pickup where we are. We take a weekly trip down to the town recycling center with our glass, plastics, paper and cardboard. But that's not quite enough for me. Yes, we recycle, but it's also my goal to recycle less because I am USING less. Take for instance a Starbucks paper cup. I meet up with my local SnB knitters each Thursday night at Starbucks. That is 4 paper cups a month and 4 sleeves a month of waste right? Well my hubby and I also frequent Starbucks during the week. Say once a week...another 2 cups (1 paper..mine, 1 plastic, his) and 1 more sleeve A WEEK. That total could be about 8 paper cups and 4 plastic cups and 8 sleeves A MONTH. Imagine that waste? I've started using a reusable sleeve made custom for me here whenever I'm at Starbucks. I figure this way I save 8 sleeves a month. I've also started using regular mugs at Starbucks when I am going to be staying there instead of going thru the drive thru. Most locations do have large mugs or cups to use...you just have to ask. So how about trying that? Order a CUSTOM $6.15 reusable sleeve (that you will get LOTS of compliments on!...oh and they make super gifts...pair one with a Starbucks gift card for a birthday or Christmas gift) and using a regular mug when staying to chat at your local coffee joint. The earth will thank you for it.

Cookie of the Week & Peppermint Flavored Heroin

2007-07-11T13:59:00.000-07:00

Yummm...doesn't that sound tasty....ye-ah.

Well okay, this is really last week's Cookie of the Week since we haven't made this week's yet...I think we'll make Walnut Chocolate Chip Cookies tomorrow. Last week's cookie was 4th of July themed...it came out purdy.

This is a slightly modified Pampered Chef recipe. All you do is bake sugar cookie dough in whatever shape you want...I used my Pampered Chef cookie stone. After it's cooled you mix one 8oz package of cream cheese, 1 cup of sour cream and 1 cup of powdered sugar until mixed well and spread it over the top. Then I like to make mine look like a flag for the 4th with berries, but I've also made this on the Pampered Chef Pizza Stone and topped it with kiwi, berries and pineapple. Yum.

In knitted news...I HAVE FINISHED SOCKS! A PAIR A PAIR A PAIR!!! My Charades are done...I got a little bit carried away with my photo shoot so just humor me already.

Specs:
Pattern: Charade Socks by Sandra Park
Yarn: Yarn Pirate Superwash Sock in Rosie
Needles: Size 1 Susan Bates
Mods: Just picked up 2 extra stitches on each side of the gusset to accomodate for my wide feet...so I worked 64 for the leg and 68 for the foot.
Problems: I encountered some issues with the yarn actually. It bled like CRAZY. Like tomato red, blood red. The white portions on the sock are now dirty pink. I contacted Yarn Pirate and she is sending a new skein to me for free which is over the top sweet. I don't know if it was the SOAK wash (she had someone else have the same problem this week with SOAK and heavy bleeding) or if it was because the yarn wasn't treated or not rinsed out enough...but whatever...she was AWESOME and her yarn is the nicest sock yarn I have knit with! I won't stop either. :)
Awesome scale: 5 out of 5 awesomeness stars. The pattern was AMAZINGLY written. The yarn was perfect to work with and didn't split at all. It was a completely enjoyable first sock PAIR process. :)

As far as the Peppermint Flavored Heroin....well, you'll just have to watch Charade, the movie that the sock pattern was named after to find out what that's all about...you want to see it....Audrey Hepburn and Cary Grant..."swoon" and "le sigh" all in one breath.

Up next: Trekking XXL socks in Garter Rib Pattern from Sensational Knitted Socks.

Contest Winners

2007-07-03T11:00:00.000-07:00

Thanks so much to everyone that left a comment for the drawings. So many of you came out of the woodwork, so to speak. I love getting lurkers to delurk. :)

The drawing happened this morning in my kitchen. Since Miss Buggernut was the object of the contest I let her pick the winners. Each person that correctly guessed that she got a HAIRCUT and was also a knitter went into one drawing. And since not one non-knitter guessed correctly, everyone that commented went into the second drawing for a pair of Puffluna earrings. I cut up pieces of paper for each drawing, put them into separate bowls folded up and let the 'Nut pick one piece out of each bowl. And the winners are:

Karen from Musings of a (mostly) Self Taught Knitter wins a skein of Plucky Knitter sock yarn in a custom Wannabe colorway

Embee from Logorrhea wins a pair of tag earrings from Puffluna.

CONGRATS LADIES!!!

Don't worry all...I'll be holding another contest soon to give away more prizes from my favorite indie shops! Stay tuned.

And without further ado....the haircut pics....Miss Nut got 7 INCHES cut off last Wednesday!

Contest Time

2007-06-30T18:46:00.001-07:00

We've been busy over here at Chez Wannabe enjoying the summer and all that it entails. Well....okay, maybe not enjoying the 110 degree heat, but nonetheless doing what we can to beat it and stay cool. This has involved countless hours in the pool, playing games inside (hello, 110!) and quite a bit of baking. I was inspired by A Friend To Knit With and her "Cookie of the Week" project she did with her kids...so the Buggernut and I have been doing some baking every week. Not necessarily cookies every week, but something baked. I plan on doing this all summer long. :)

So, I think a contest is long overdue, don't you? I'm going to have 2 prizes. One for a knitter and one for a non-knitter. First, let me indulge you with some cuteness.

The 'Nut and I baked for a Rescue bake sale. We made Snickerdoodles and used boxes a la Martha to package them beautifully. And of course, had to make a few dozen more to share with neighbors and fill our tummies. :)

This past week we made Sara's Strawberry Muffin recipe. These were OUT OF THIS WORLD amazing. Again, cupcake liners a la Martha. Notice the color choice. Ehem.

So here's the scoop. My little helper went thru a big change this week. If you've read the blog for a while you know that I post lots of pics of her. If you can correctly guess the change, you will be entered into a drawing for one of 2 yummy prizes. There is a big hint in one of the pictures of her.

Prize #1 will be for knitters: A custom "Wannabe" skein of sock yarn from the very talented The Plucky Knitter.
Prize #2 for the non-knitters: A pair of pretty earrings from Puffluna...my current Etsy addiction.

You have until Tuesday, July 3 to leave me a comment to be entered into the drawing. Happy Guessing!

Yarny Goodness

2007-06-20T14:47:00.000-07:00

MMMMMMMMMMM, there's nothing like getting 2 delish packages in the mail. I'm not talking boxes of chocolates or cookies or even brownies (however, if anyone feels like sending any of the aforementioned to me I would not drive the UPS delivery man away)...I'm talking about yaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaarn. I'm trying to purchase by project now which is a big difference from how I'd buy yarn in the past. I would haphazardly throw skein upon skein into the shopping basket (virtual or not) and THEN wonder what in the name of kaleidoscope I was going to do with it. *Of course, this EXCLUDES sock yarn...hello, does not count as stash.

Anywho, KnitPicks had a summer sale a week or so ago and while perusing (and slightly salivating), I found the perfect yarn for a project I REALLY want to make....the BSA Cropped Cardigan. Does someone think I might have a :thing: for BSA patterns? Anywho, 8 skeins of Andean Treasure in Woods Heather jumped into my virtual basket. I got all 8 for around $25...hello, this is 100% BABY FREAKING ALPACA! This beats the yarn the pattern calls for which would have run me about $75...cough. I've heard nothing but good things about Andean Treasure and I can't wait to swatch and knit this up. Yummy.

The other package consisted of goodies from a blogiversary contest I won over at A Knitted Frenzy. Kim totally spoiled me with The Yarn Harlot's new book and a skein of Socks That Rock Mediumweight in Harlotty! THANK YOU KIM!

Now if I could only figure out a way to make the bills come in fibery form. Anyone? Anyone? Bueller?

The Game of Charades

2007-06-19T07:07:00.000-07:00

As promised, I give you Charade sock number one...

Specs:
Pattern: Charade Socks by Sandra Park
Yarn: Yarn Pirate Superwash Fingering Merino in Rosie gifted to me from Sarah
Needles: Susan Bates Size 1 DPNs
Mods: I just picked up a few more stitches in the gusset...18 instead of 16 and kept those 2 extra on each side when I knit the foot to accomodate for the wideness in my foot. That's it. This pattern ROCKS!

That Sandra is a genius. This is the most fun sock pattern of all time. As she suggested, I rented Charade to watch while I knit sock number 2....le sigh...nothin' better than Audrey Hepburn and Cary Grant together.

And I'm determined not to have SSS (Second Sock Syndrome) on these so here's the proof in the pudding.

Craft Love

2007-06-18T15:11:00.000-07:00

Seems my Buggernut wants to be like her mama in serious ways these days. The other day she asked for needles and knitting (her word for yarn)...of course, I jumped at that and cast on a few stitches for her on super huge needles. She sat for a while and played but she didn't want me to teach her the real way to knit. She kept saying...No mama, *insert her real name here* will do it. Apparently another trait I've passed on...being a big know-it-all and seriously independent. LOL!

In crafting news...the other night, my aunt, cousin and I went out for a Girl's Night. We had dinner at Sautee followed by pottery painting at As You Wish. Here's what I made...my very own ice cream bowl.

I like. Now everyone knows I have a "thing" for ice cream. I have to have it almost every night...now I have my very own bowl. Guess that means I shouldn't eat from the pint of Haagen-Dasz anymore, right? ;)

In knitting news, I've given up on the idea that I would finish the BSA Rectangle Shawl in time for The Mister's grandma's 90th birthday, so it's on the back burner for Christmas knitting. Really, I was sooo bored knitting this. It has a 10 row repeat but meh...there are so many other things I want to knit right now. Here she is stalled with about 2 balls knit with Louisa Harding Grace Wool-Silk.

Tomorrow, pics of Charade Sock #1 done and sock #2 on the needles.

Happy Father's Day

2007-06-17T08:22:00.000-07:00

...to both of my dads...3000 miles away from me, but close to my heart.

And to my Buggernut's daddy.....your daughter adores you. You are calm, gentle, kind and loving in every way to her and I am so thankful for you. I hope you have a fantastic day today.

Grateful Friday

2007-06-15T20:29:00.000-07:00

My hubster aka The Mister. He was awesome this week. I had a really hard day today and he was so supportive and did whatever he could to make me feel better. Just getting a nice hug from him is sometimes all I need to calm down and feel more centered.
Getting to go out to dinner, pottery painting and ice cream with my aunt and cousin last night. It was SOO much fun!
Finishing a sock that fits like a glove and is absolutely perfect (pics to follow next week!)
Getting along really well with the MIL. I really really really am happy that we are doing well and developing a nice relationship...it makes life feel so much better.
Knitting with Michelle for a few hours alone this week. It was a nice break and it was fun to get to know her a little bit more.
Looking forward to knitting with friends tomorrow and spending quality family time this weekend.
Hearing happy news from a good friend...and feeling so loved and blessed that she called to share it with ME!
Getting to have a nice long chat with Embee yesterday.
Making it in to The Yarn Pirate's Sock Booty Club! WOOT!

Have a fab weekend. Knitting pics and updates after the weekend!

Supporting "Indie"

2007-06-11T12:22:00.002-07:00

I've been on an "indie" kick for a while now. I think it's so important to buy from small businesses especially businesses that are run out of a home. I've been a work from home mom and it's tough stuff to balance work with life...since I only really dabble now with my cloth diapering business and don't rely on it for income anymore (mostly just Etsy and yarn purchases...snort), I try to pass the torch and support others in their endeavors. I have a few favorite indie designers/sewers/artists that I'd like to share with you. Please check them out and support their work. In doing so, you give opportunity to another woman who without the support wouldn't be able to do what they love to do most, create.

The Plucky Knitter - breathtakingly beautiful hand dyed sock and laceweight yarn with colorways inspired by her favorite things
This Is Spiffy - gorgeous stitch markers & jewelry
MaryMo - handmade bags, pouches, art and knitwear
Scout's Swag - gorgeous yarns, knitting bags, and notions
TinkerWithThis - jewelry, pouches, hand stamped tees and baby items, gorgeous bags

Please feel free to share some of your favorite indie businesses with me in the comments so I can check them out! :)

::i love:: wednesdays

2007-06-06T14:33:00.000-07:00

::i love::

:the way my husband's legs entangle with mine while we sleep
:my daughter's laugh when she's being tickled
:candles burning
:a full fridge
:ripe organic blackberries
:talking to my grandma on the phone while she mashes potatoes
:my curls blowing in the wind
:looking forward to thursdays
:knitting socks
:audrey hepburn movies
:altoids cinnamon gum
:clean toaster ovens
:feeling accomplished after cleaning said toaster oven for over an hour
:loving that i can love

Grateful Friday

2007-06-01T11:30:00.000-07:00

This week I am grateful for:

Miss Buggernut having nothing but a sore finger after getting stung by a scorpion (she was trying to pet it...). I was a bit freaked by all the side effects that COULD have happened, but she was really okay.
My new foxy, kicky banner designed by the awesomeness aka Tink of The Art House fame. She rocketh my world.
Knit night being fantastic last night. We have several new members that are going to start coming all the time! YEAH!
My husband stepping up to the plate and being really awesome in times of "crisis" (read: toddler getting stung by scorpion) and overall being fantastic this week.
A great week in general filled with lots of fun playdates, lunches and time with grandma.

Color me Organic, Baby.

2007-05-29T12:37:00.000-07:00

I'm back. It was actually REALLY nice not to have to think about blogging. I feel really guilty when I don't blog. Like I'm doing some disservice to myself and my readers or something. Sorry 'bout that.

So you know, I gift knit. A lot. A lot of the recipients of said gifties read this blog so it's hard to post till I actually gift the goods. This past Thursday...or shall I use the Buggernut's fav phrase...last Thursday....I spent time with a very dear friend of mine, Mikael. We've known each other for 7 years this summer. I luff her. She is funny, kind, very warm and open and I feel like I can tell her anything...she's just one of those friends. She's also preggers with her 3rd baby. This is amazing to me...not that she is pregnant for a 3rd time, but that when she was preggers with her first baby we had just met. Life changes so much in 7 years. Anywho, we met up at her house and then headed off to Cibo for a fabu-lass dinner. We gnoshed and talked up a storm. Then we headed back to her house for a slice of heaven aka Trader Joe's Mud Pie (hellllllllo...this is my new fav!) and gifties. Now she's a lot like me with gifts. I love givin', but hate receivin'. It's not that I don't appreciate the thought or anything, but I get embarrassed. I knew she was like this too, but I couldn't resist knitting her something for the new babe.

These are extremely crapalicious pictures because The Nut was napping and I had to photo in my bedroom. So I'm hoping she might post some pics to her blog when the new babe comes...since she's an amazing photographer and all. :)

Specs:
Pattern: Organic Cotton Blanket from Natural Knits for Babies and Moms by Louisa Harding
Yarn: Blue Sky Alpacas Organic Cotton in Sand
Needles: Denise Size 8

Specs:
Pattern: Organic Cotton Bunny from Natural Knits for Babies and Moms by Louisa Harding
Yarn: Blue Sky Alpacas Organic Cotton in Sand, very small amount of leftover Lamb's Pride Worsted in Charcoal Gray for eyes and nose
Needles: Straight Aluminums size 8

This explains a lot of things...

2007-05-26T18:22:00.000-07:00

Amanda --

[noun]:

A hermit living in the big city

'How will you be defined in the dictionary?' at QuizGalaxy.com

Wannabe --

[adjective]:

Extremely extreme!

'How will you be defined in the dictionary?' at QuizGalaxy.com

An unplanned break

2007-05-23T14:48:00.000-07:00

I've been absent a lot...but for good reasons. Miss Buggernut had her 3rd birthday last week with several events surrounding that, Mother's Day events....we also have some pretty intense personal stuff going on too...so I've been trying to prioritize life right now...and that involves less computer time and a lot less knitting time. I promise to be back soon...most likely after the long weekend with some FO pics and in progress pics. Hope everyone is well.

Grateful Friday

2007-05-11T18:13:00.000-07:00

This week I'm grateful for:

The cool dude in the pic above who just happens to be my famous Buggernut. The kid CRACKS.ME.UP and I'm so grateful that I get to spend my life being her mama.
My sis ters....and my adopted one.
My mama. I miss her.
Being healthy.
New Yarn.
An extra long knit night last night chattin' it up with Miss Spiff.
A full weekend ahead with a scheduled tea par-tay with the MIL and the Mister's relatives.
Protection.
Love in my life.
Good, healthy food in my fridge

I hope everyone has a wonderful weekend...and if you are a mama, Happy Mother's Day!

Sock Crack & Crafty Goodness

2007-05-10T11:32:00.000-07:00

The TinkerStinker told me I needed to post. I know people...I'm a slacker. I've been busy with Mother's Day stuff and a bit of crafting and general mommy stuff.

But what you ask...has been taking every spare millisecond that I have in the day when I'm not scrubbing floors, cleaning makeup brushes, organizing bookshelves and doing party invites for The Mister's grandma's 90th?

Well, meet Rosie the Charade Sock aka My Drug of Choice.

I completely blame my twin for this. The pattern was her idea and the Yarn Pirate yarn was sent by her (see last post). I'm addicted.

We all know I should be responsible and knit the BSA Rectangle Shawl that has a DEADLINE.

Or maybe the Chemo Cap for my sick auntie.

Ohhhh...Rosie, what have you done to me?

Grateful (& Spoiled) Friday

2007-05-04T12:32:00.000-07:00

(Yarn Pirate Superwash Merino Sock Yarn in Rosie, adorable wallet in my signature colors, a yummy lemon verbena candle, a cute stripey matchbox, Cucina Hand Wash and Lotion and some delish Republic of Tea teabags)

Hi, my name is Wannabe. I'm spoiled.

This Friday I am grateful for:

Awesome girlfriends who send you yummy packages just 'cause. (see above)
Winning a blog contest over at MLE Knits
Martha Stewart Crafts released at Michael's this week (thanks to Sara for the tip!) which just makes me all gooey and happy with crafting possibilities (anyone want to watch the 'Nut for a week so I can get some of those ideas done...ehem.)

Getting an enormous amount of deep cleaning and organizing done around Chez Wannabe this week!
Trader Joe's Salt and Pepper Tater Chips...mmmmm
Looking forward to a family get together at my aunt's tomorrow

ROOOOOOOOSIIIIIIIE sock yarn....destined to become these!!!
Scoring 2 skeins of Yarn Pirate Sock Yarn in Malamute and Pretty Pirate with the assistance of one Plucky Knitter. Muah.
Having 3 movies that I REALLY want to see waiting for me on top of the TV: The Queen, Black Dahlia and Notes on a Scandal.

Having super mild weather...it's only 80 today!
My blooming hanging pot of pink geraniums outside my front door.
Having health, family and love in my life.

Have a fantastic weekend!

When people wear what I knit them...

2007-05-02T07:48:00.000-07:00

it makes me feel so good. These were part of a giftie for my sister, Embee for her new baby, Drewski. Photos courtesy of my other sister, Sara.

I posted specs on these babies here.

Meatheads, Swag and a New Addiction

2007-05-01T13:16:00.000-07:00

Yeah. I've been knitting...but on the sly. Always on the sly. I will have a few new revealed projects after they are gifted later this week.

But....I did knit a meathead. And I heart it. It is going to be for Sara's girlie, KG. I made her a hat last year but it might have fit a newborn...seriously.

Specs:
Pattern: Meathead Hat by Larissa Brown
Needles: Size 15 Clover Bamboo DPNs
Yarn: 1 skein of Brown Sheep Lamb's Pride Bulky in Lotus Pink
Mods: knit in the round instead of flat so I reduced the stitch count by 2 for the cast on.

LOVED IT. It's a great stash buster...only requires one skein of bulky weight yarn which is doubled throughout and it only took an hour to knit! Haaaallo!
Okay, kids...now I need help figuring out an embellishment. A flower, a vintage pin, buttons up the side? Ideas?

In swag news....

This came the other day...

Scout's Swag Indie Swag Club for April in Lavender Mint...can I get an OOOOOOOOOO...
Of all the swag I've gotten from Miss Scout, I think this is my fav. I was so happy to have my name drawn for this round. Along with this skein came a tin of Heal My Hands in Lavender Mint, Heal My Lips in Madagascar Vanilla and samples of Heal My Feet and the Mask! I couldn't have asked for a better swag. Go support Scout. She is the bizomb!

In addiction news: Headbands...loving the headbands.

I'm in transition with the hair. I thought maybe I was going to go long again. Not so sure...so to help me not make a rash decision like this one....I'm going to hold back the mane with headbands. I tried several...some that Miss Tink loved...but didn't work for me very well....until I found this place....oh.my.land.people. I love these so much. They stay put and are super cute hair up or down. They also reversible so you get 2 headbands for the price of one. What,what.
Le sigh...oh Etsy...what you do to me....

Clapotis Groupies Beware...

2007-04-26T11:48:00.000-07:00

So I tried. 3 times. I loathe Clapotis. It just wasn't working for me. Maybe if I had no deadline and this could be a year long WIP, then maybe. But I have to work this sucker up fast...and it's not happening. I have ADD when it comes to knitting. I need me some instant grats...know what I mean?
The genius that is The Plucky Knitter, who also happens to be my adopted knitting sister...she came up with a plan. We have been talking about doing a knit-a-long together. We were going to do the Clap. See above. Not happening. So, today she sent me a link to this beaut...I saw this up at Jessica's last time Spiff and I went and it was gorgeous. It's also faster and a lot less boring I think. I should still be able to use the Louisa Harding Grace Wool-Silk too. Bonus.
I've also been itching to make something for me. In the 3 years I have been knitting I have yet to make/finish something for myself. Socks are perfect. I really want to make some socks for football season with the custom Philadelphia Eagles colorway that Scout made me last winter...but I have 3 months till preseason, so Plucky and I are going to knit the same socks too...these cuties..2 projects together. Could we be more virtually attached at the hip?

I was told to wait to cast on for both of these until I get a surprise...okay, well not so much of a surprise anymore package from Ms. Plucky. Until then I'm going to whip up a Meathead and a few dishcloths.

Happy Non-Clapotis knitting.

Don't get your hopes up...

2007-04-23T13:31:00.000-07:00

It's boring stuff over here at Chez Wannabe. No pictures. No knitting. And certainly no babies to report. The pictures...there are none because there is no exciting knitting going on. Le Spiff and I went to Queen Creek's Yarn Yankers on Saturday to knit and I started the Clap. BUT, while I was there I frogged what I got done because I made a huge mistake and couldn't figure it out. I cast on again yesterday but really I'm only into the 2nd repeat on Section 2 which are the increases so there's really nothing excited about that. And today, when I could have been knitting while the 'Nut was down for a nap, I was cleaning blinds and dusting and spraying Febreeze on every fabric surface in the house. This seriously cuts down on knitting time. Don't feel sorry for me or anything. I do it to myself. And later...well, later I have to do the shopping at Trader Joe's followed by dinner, bathtime and bedtime....and by then, I'm sure I could knit, but the Mister is home tonight which means the carpet cleaning that he has been putting off for 5 weeks has to get done tonight so I can return the steam cleaner to the MIL tomorrow...that means I will be lifting chairs and litterboxes and shoes and stools and well, you get the picture...no knitting time. Le sigh. Even still, all you are going to hear about around here for the next little while is the Clap and surely that will get old....so I'll have to come up with something...maybe I'll tell you about my oldest cat's love affair with a certain pair of my J.Crew flip flops, or like Spiff and I, we can ponder the reasons why men stand to pee. But don't get your hopes up...there will be no pictures of those either.

Grateful Friday

2007-04-20T11:23:00.000-07:00

Knitting was my comfort this week. Knitting and the iPod (affectionally known as WannabeGroovin')
Embee having a healthy baby boy and being okay herself.
Getting to IM with my mom this morning from all the way in India.
Having rockin' friends.
Fun playdates.
Not getting overwhelmed on said playdates like I often do.
New flip flops.
My health.
Magenta hydrangeas on my dining room table.
My beautiful baby girl who makes my life a pretty place.
Baked Kettle Chips
Linda's Pineapple Upside Down Cake
Spiff being willing to drive herself crazy AGAIN teaching me how to crochet AGAIN tomorrow

Have a fantastic weekend.

An update and a BIG thank you

2007-04-19T16:22:00.000-07:00

Seriously guys, I received so many emails and comments about my auntie. I appreciate you taking time out of your busy lives to think of my family. You have no idea how much that means to me and my family. The current update is that she has been transferred to a different hospital about 3 hours from her home. A biopsy will be done tomorrow and then it will be about a week for the pathology results to be in. Then they will determine whether they can do radiation to shrink the tumor and have the ability to operate. Everything is so up in the air right now, but please continue to send the prayers and love if you can. She can use each and every one. The good news is that we were able to get a hold of my mom who is making plans to try to come back to the States to be with my aunt.

The REALLY good news is that my sister had her baby last night after a long labor. She is doing well and has a healthy, BIG baby boy. I don't want to give away too much because I know she will want to post on her blog when she is home in a few days. He is nursing well and she is just trying to get used to be a new mama. I am so proud of her. I love you, Mar. :)

I'm off to knitting tonight for creme brulee and girl talk. Today has been a LONG one. Spiff, Michelle and I took our kiddos to the zoo and we are wiped out over here. Hopefully I can stay away long enough to knit something...I need to cast on the Clap, but have no energy to do so. It might be a dishcloth night for me. :)

Sadness and Happiness

2007-04-18T07:36:00.000-07:00

How can both exist on one such day? The far ends of the spectrum. Black and white. That is today.

The happiness is that a baby boy will come into the world today. A sweet, precious boy that will be so loved and cherished. A baby boy who I can't wait to spoil. A baby boy that will someday call me Aunt 'Nana'. A baby boy who will have such an unbelievable mama that he won't even know how lucky he is. If you have a minute today, say a prayer for my little sister, Embee, who is bringing that baby boy into the world as I type this? (Oh, and guess what he is wearing home from the hospital...the Baby Bolero I knit for him!!!!! Woot!)

The sadness is that we found out this week that my mom's only sister, my auntie, has brain cancer. It has spread and at this point it's not looking so good. I will have more info later today after she sees another specialist. Can you light a candle and say a prayer for my Auntie June? She is the most loving, wonderful, caring and giving auntie ever. I'll never understand why things like this happen to such amazingly beautiful people but I do know that all things work for the good and that what will be will be. I'm hoping and praying for a miracle. Will you join me?

Love and hope to each of you today.

I actually relaxed!!!

2007-04-16T07:35:00.000-07:00

Yes, you read that right and if you know me even a smidge you know that this girl's brain and body goes about 100 mph ALL.THE.TIME. I rarely even sit down during the day and some nights I realize at 7pm that it's the first time I've sat down all day. Well, this weekend was different. I relaxed. And it FELT.GOOD!

Our little weekend began with a playdate with Buggernut's BFF, P and her mama, who is a close friend of mine. We took the girlies to the park armed with a grocery bag of Ben & Jerry's Minis. The girls played SOOOO well (no fighting, they shared and loved spending time together!) and P's mama and I got to really get some good girl time in. It was sooo nice.

Saturday I relaxed all morning and just did a few things around the house at a slow pace and then got to go grocery shopping ALONE. Don't laugh. I rarely get to go anywhere errand wise alone so it's like a vacation to stroll lazily down the aisles at Trader Joe's. :)

Yesterday was the kicker. I was at the spa by 10am. IT WAS SOOOOOOOOOOOO RELAXING. Even the room I waited in during treatments was relaxing and I got 2 chapters read in my book UNINTERRUPTED! Woot. I got an eyebrow wax/reshape followed by a facial consult (I go back in a month for an antioxidant facial). Then I got a combination massage which was a mix of hot rock therapy, swedish and deep tissue. The only thing I would have liked better was if she was rougher. I find that I need a male therapist to really get all the knots out because I like the deeper pressure...okay that sounds um, nevermind. Then I got a mani and spa pedicure (which included a foot masque!). It was lovely. I was really annoyed at the Mister when he went and spent all this money on this for me, but when I got home I thanked him profusely and reminded him that Mother's Day is in a few weeks! Bwahhahahhhahaaha.....

Hoping your weekend was relaxing and stress-free. We have a jam packed week filled with several playdates, an all day craft day, and possibly a trip to the zoo. Hopefully I can fit some knitting in there sometime. My yarn from WEBS should be here this week too so I can start on the Clapotis (you know what that means Sarah!). And Spiff, you better bring a bigger bag or bra to knit club this week so you can smuggle your yarn home. ;) muahahahahaha...

Pretty In Pink

2007-04-14T18:22:00.001-07:00

Didn't you love that movie? Le sigh. Brings me back. Anywho, I promised some pics of the Petal Bib so here they are:

(click for bigger images)

Specs:
Pattern: Petal Bib from One Skein
Yarn: Rowan Handknit Cotton in Color #310 gifted to me by The Knitting Buddha
Needles: Size 6 Clover Bamboo Straights, Size 6 Clover Bamboo DPNs
Mods: None
Notes: I LOVED knitting this. It was a super fast project...perfect for those "in between" projects. It also allowed me to learn 2 new things that I've never done before...Purl 2 together thru back loops (P2tog tbl) and knit an icord into a project. I was a bit freaked out by both but once I sat there and really read the directions thru I figured them both out and felt like a genius. Okay, humor me and clap or something. :)
Knitted for: My friend, Jessica who is due with her second baby girl in June.

Speaking of pink, these have been a fixture in the 'Nut's wardrobe for about a week now. She exclaimed the other day that these would be the only shoes she is going to wear. Not that I have a problem with that or anything...you know...with my love of pink and all. :)

Grateful Friday

2007-04-13T13:48:00.000-07:00

I'm in a list mood today. Deal. LOL!

This week I am grateful for:

The week being over with. This was a really stressful week and I'm glad I get a fresh slate in a few days.
Lots of knitting time. I've made myself sit and knit during the Buggernut's naps and after she went to bed this week. On any other week, I work my boooo-tay off cleaning or working on projects during these times which is why the knitting suffers. I finished 2 projects this week because of it and it feels good.
Cast On - I LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE this Podcast. Brenda Dayne podcasts from Wales and she has the most relaxing voice. I can knit and listen at the same time without the podcast taking away my concentration....you knitters know what I'm talkin' 'bout. Same way I can't knit during '24'....I CAN knit during Cast On.
A warm, gooey chocolate chip cookie after lunch today.
3 pints of Haagen-Dazs in the freezer. Can we tell what week this is ladies?
Being done with Tink's card swap. These things completely overwhelm me...why is that? I am a freaking perfectionist. As it is I am already having anxiety attacks about there being only 1 HANDMADE card in the loot. Pssshh.
New friends.
Having curly hair. I never thought I would ever say that...but struggling with Buggernut's poker straight, fine hair makes me appreciate what I have on my own head.
Spa day on Sunday. I'm getting a combo massage (hot rock, swedish and deep tissue all in one), a mani, spa pedi, eyebrow wax/reshape and possibly a facial if I have time. I am sooo excited. I will be bringing the iPod and knitting with me.
Beautiful weather. It's in the 60's here today. A welcome change from the 90's we had last week.

I promise to get some pics posted in the next few days of what I've been working on. Have a wonderful weekend everyone.

A grump

2007-04-12T10:08:00.000-07:00

That's me today. I don't know what my deal is but I have a major case of the grumps. Ever have those days when everything feels off? You get out of the shower and still feel gross...you don't have enough energy to do anything around the house even though there is 3" of dust on everything...your favorite jeans feel not so favorite and your bra makes you feel like you have back fat? Today is that day. Really in the scheme of things I have nothing to complain about. Someone snap me out of it. Tell me a joke. Dirty or clean. Make me laugh. Lift me up. Or else I'm resorting to that bottle of Merlot in the kitchen during nap time. Oh, and some Haagen-Dasz for lunch.

No pics, just linkage.

2007-04-11T07:56:00.000-07:00

I got knitting. Lotsa knitting. I finished off the secret baby project I have been very slowly working on...of course, I can't post pics until after it's gifted. Yesterday during the Buggernut's 3 HOUR nap I started on the Petal Bib from One Skein in some beautiful pale pink Rowan Handknit cotton that the Spifster bought me on her trip "to convince me not to move to LaJolla" aka "vacation in San Diego". It knits up SOOO fast and this yarn...oh, this yarn is awesome. Must have more. Anyways, I'll post some pics of this as soon as it's done because the recipient doesn't read the blog. Punk.

Next up, the Clap. Clapotis, that is. Please, people. Sick. After some yarn selection help from Plucky Sarah and Knitting Buddha and a WEBS sale to push me over the edge, I chose Louisa Harding Grace Wool-Silk in Beige. This is going to be a 90th birthday gift for the Mister's grandma so it needed to be practical and beautiful at the same time. I think it will work up beautifully. Now if Plucky can chose some yarn we can knit these together...that's the plan anyways. :)

Off to get ready to go up to Scottsdale to have lunch with some of the old work cohorts. Have a lovely day!

Chocolate & Cotton Candy

2007-04-07T08:06:00.000-07:00

Okay so I have this pink & brown fetish. I love the combo. Obviously, le blog is modeled after said fetish, as are the coffee mugs in the cupboard, yarn in my stash, my knitting bag and notions, so why not add one more little thing to the collection. Now who doesn't love a pink and brown skully?

She will reside on my knitting bag as soon as she gets here. I bought her as inspired by Sara's felt flower fetish over at Pink Sparrow. Can I tell you how much I heart Etsy?

Grateful Friday

2007-04-06T07:46:00.000-07:00

So okay I couldn't stay away till next week because I HAVE to do Grateful Friday and all. You know.

Here goes:

Looking back at pics of the Buggernut (like the one above of us in Connecticut in October 2005) and getting warm mushy feelings all over.
Finally feeling like a normal human being today after 5 days of food poisoning hell
Deciding to forego knitting last night to stay home and watch The Sentinel (oooo, Kieeeeeeffffeeeeeeeerrrrr....grrrr) with the Mister
Because of the above, got 2 nights in a row of bedtime at 9pm...ahhhhhh
Watching the Buggernut's face light up this morning when I gave her a breakfast of a whole wheat English muffin with raw peanut butter, fresh strawberries and kiwi....and have her look at it with wide eyes like I just handed her a bowl of Fruit Loops and Cotton Candy. I love that she loves healthy food.
A pink hyacinth in a yellow pot on my dining room table. Happy Easter!
Feeling semi-caught up after working like mad around the house the past few days.
Knitting tomorrow with the grrrrls.
LOTS of Rescue work this weekend....fundraiser event tomorrow afternoon and a shift on Sunday. I can't say enough how much I love my work there.
Getting an invite to go to my aunt's in a few weeks just to lounge by the pool and hang out. I love spending time with her.
Booking my day at the spa! Woot!
Having the windows open this morning and smelling that nice fresh breeze coming in.
Starting a new novel yesterday, The Time Traveler's Wife, recommended by Kelli, and knowing in the first few pages that I'm going to LOVE it.
Receiving a Calculated Acts of Kindness envelope in the mail this week from Kelli and opening it to see lots of yummy fabric in it so I can start on making pony and clips! Thanks girl!
Unpacking the box that came this week from Sara and remembering all the good times and love that I feel for my sisters.
Working on a compilation CD yesterday for Tink's CD/card swap and gettin' all happy about 80's and 90's musac. It brings me back. Anyone remember Jenn and I flippin' our hair while singing 'More Than Words' by Extreme? Dude, we were so hot! LOL!

I have lots more to be thankful for and could keep listing and listing....I hope you all have a wonderful holiday weekend! See you next week!

Seriously people...

2007-04-05T07:40:00.000-07:00

it's called food poisoning and the moral of the story is to never ever eat at Olive Garden aka the McDonald's of italian chains. Ick. I promise I will be back next week with some witty (psssssh!), fantastic knitting mojo and lots of pictures. I'm just playing catch up over here. Must go. ;)

Grapefruit...uh...Grateful Friday

2007-03-30T08:48:00.000-07:00

Things I am grateful for this week:

Getting to help this crazy grrrrl, Mikael, who pets my shoes on dinner dates, move into her new house this weekend. I love her so much and can't wait to see her.
Mild weather this week...it has been BEEEEEAUTIFUL here.
Trader Joe's Toasted Oatmeal Flakes and fresh blackberries
iPod love
Blooming daffodils
Buggernut's laughter
Espadrilles...me loves.
Spending time with the grrrls last night at knit night and doing an awesome trade with Spiff
Having "fresh meat" (okay, new knitters) at knitting last night and this past Saturday. Muahahahaah.....
Talking to 2 of my 3 brothers this week for good blocks of time. :)
Pancakes & a movie on a Monday night
Being healthy this week

Hoping this weekend finds you happy, healthy and loved.

Spring has Sprung

2007-03-29T07:54:00.000-07:00

This is how we have spent every afternoon here at Chez Wannabe....

I can't even knit because I'm basking in the warm sun, drinking my afternoon coffee and watching my Buggernut enjoy life. Can't get any sweeter than that. :)

Today calls for some spring cleaning, knit night with the grrrls and watching my daffodils bloom. Enjoy yours.

Wash me. Clean me up.

2007-03-28T12:43:00.000-07:00

So unlike Spiffy McSpiff when I'm between projects, uninspired or just lazy, my project of the day seems not to be a complicated cable bag or intarsia, it's just a plain ol' granny square dishcloth. And I love them. They require zero brain power, I can balance a pint of Haagen Dazs on my lap while knitting it and it fits in my Small Project Pouch (see last post). Besides that, I have about 60 balls (no exaggeration) of kitchen cotton in my stash that need to go away to make room for more fancy schmacy stuff.

Last Thursday

2007-03-25T16:32:00.000-07:00

Lately everything time-wise to the Buggernut is 'Last Thursday'. Nothing is yesterday, today, tomorrow...EVERYTHING took place Last Thursday. It's pretty funny. Today when she got up from her nap she told me that she hadn't had a drink since last Thursday....uh huh.

Speaking of Last Thursday here are some pics I took of my new small project pouch....you know, last Thursday.

Isn't it too cute? I've been eyeing one of these for a while over at Piddleloop. Jen is so talented and make the cutest bags. She also just opened up an etsy shop (...more to covet like this....DROOL). My favorite part of this bag is the grommet that the yarn feeds thru. GENIUS. I can't wait to tote some socks in this bag...soon. Socks for me. When I make them. Maybe Last Thursday...or next Thursday I'll start a pair. ;)

Grateful Friday

2007-03-23T07:47:00.000-07:00

Today I am grateful for:

My Buggernut who makes me laugh and has such a little personality. I love her to pieces. I also love that she loves Peanut Butter as much as I do. :)
Unexpected opportunities
Thunderstorms, cool weather and LOTS of rain
Having knitting needles back in my hands after a decent hiatus. I forget when I don't knit much how much I miss it.
Buggernut taking awesome naps since we've been home from CT which allowed me to get every room in our house deep cleaned and some big organizing done (read: under the kitchen sink, master closet etc...YEAH!)
Blooming hydrangea on my dining room table
Fresh strawberries
Finding flip flop like slippers at Old Navy in Meriden
Talking to my grandma yesterday...and hearing joy in her voice
Having a super fun shopping trip with my MIL on Tuesday. We enjoyed each other's company a lot and it was really nice.
Having Namaste Needles replace my knitting bag that was faulty and coming apart and it coming in 2 days! GO BUY A NAMASTE BAG from Scout! This company is amazing and stands by their customers, suppliers and their product! That's hard to find.
Getting to see my knit grrrrrls tomorrow and looking forward to lunch with Anne
Working at Rescue on Sunday...I haven't been there in 4 weeks and I miss it!

I hope everyone has a great weekend!

Sock it to me baby!

2007-03-22T07:38:00.000-07:00

Yes, 3 posts in 3 days. I'm makin' my mama proud. Speaking of making mama proud, Buggernut decided last night that if we can find her 'Cars' panties that she would like to try the potty. Um, yeah. Girls Cars panties. What are the chances? So yes, my little girl will be the one with the little boy's flappy thing in the front of her undies because at this point I am willing to do whatever to get her potty trained. Wish me luck. We are going to try all day today.

In knitting news, I made these beauties for Embee's little Drewski...

They were ripped out a few times so that I could rewrite the pattern. You'd think with a sock so small that someone could figure out how to write a pattern, but uh, no.

Sock specs:

Pattern: Was going to be some fancy pants pattern, but ended up about 10 rows of k1.p1 rib at the cuff, stockinette, slipped stitch heel and kitchenered toe. :)
Yarn: Sunshine Yarns in Taos (by the fabulous Dani!)
Needles: Clover Bamboo DPN's size 1 (a.k.a. toothpicks)
Notes: LOVED these. And this yarn is to DIE FOR! It's super soft, knits up beautifully and the colors were so even and lovely. I LOVE Sunshine Yarns. Go buy some!

Hopefully MB will send me some pics after the Drewski is born so I can post his little feet wearing these. :) Hint, hint. FIND YOUR CAMERA CORD!

Today calls for some yummy thunderstorms, potty training and lots of knitting in my PJs. AND a new Grey's episode. I have to miss knit night tonight because the dh has something work related going on but I'll see my grrrrls on Saturday. Can't wait!
Have a super day everyone!

Bainbridge Beauty

2007-03-21T07:49:00.000-07:00

See I really have been knitting all you doubters of mine! It's just that everything I knit is for someone else...and most of those someones read this here blog so it's hard to show the goods until they are gifted.

Case in point: Pepperknit's Bainbridge Scarf

This was part of a birthday gift for my sister, Sarie. Of course, I neglected to get a picture of her wearing it but the Buggernut enjoyed being a model at 7am. :)

Le specs:

Pattern: Pepperknit's Bainbridge Scarf
Yarn: RYC Cashsoft by Rowan in Mirage
Needles: Denise size 5 circs
Mods: The only thing I changed was the tie...I knit it in garter instead of seed stitch

I loved this. It was super easy. The yarn was absolutely amazing to work with (my new fav I think), and she loved it. And Anne, the color was perfect on her so thanks for helping me pick it out! :)

Today I'm off to get ANOTHER nose ring. I lost 3 so far washing my face in the shower. I guess this is why they tell you not to use washcloths. Ehem.

More knitting pretties tomorrow.

Meet Karlos

2007-03-20T12:53:00.000-07:00

Karlos is really Kate. Kate is a kitten designed by Jess Hutch for Knitty. I renamed Kate because a boy baby needs a boy kitten name. That's where Karlos came in. Besides I like rolling my tongue when I say it. Repeat. Kaaaaaarrrrrlllllos. Nice.

Karlos was one of the gifties for my sister, Embee (or rather, Drewski, her baby-to-be) and was gifted to her at her baby shower weekend before last in Connecticut.

Here are Karlos' specs:

Pattern: Kate the Kitten by Jess Hutchinson for Knitty
Yarn: 3 skeins of Brown Sheep Lamb's Pride Worsted in Blue Boy, Brite Blue and Lemon Drop
Needles: Clover Bamboo size 6 DPNs
Other ingredients: Polyfill, Clover Chibi for seaming and patience

More pics of Karlos in all his glory:

I think she liked him!

More knitting to come tomorrow....must go! ;)

Catch Up

2007-03-19T16:37:00.000-07:00

Playing catch up over here but in a day or two you will see some actual knitting content. I am glad to be back but I miss my grrrr rrrrrls bad.

Quiet is good

2007-03-06T13:55:00.000-07:00

It's been really quiet around here...I know. But all for good reasons. I've been knitting up a storm and will have lots of proof when I return from vaca. That's right, Buggernut and I are off to Connecticut for 8 days to see my SIS TERS!!!! I am beyond the point of being excited...it's absolute euphoria. What sparked this trip is a little baby in Embee's belly and most of the knitting done around here is for that little bundle. But two other grrrrls are gonna receive a little something too....you'll have to wait till I get back for the reveal. I'm also looking forward to meeting Cheri who is the bizomb behind the awesome headers I've had around here lately. So all in all, if I can survive the plane rides with a 2 year old, make it thru the hassle that is security at the airport, not get stuck on the runway for 11 hours and make it safe and sound, I plan on doing a lot of laughing, catching up, eating fattening food, drinking lotsa coffee, knitting and shopping....mixed with visiting family and friends, and a baby shower. I'll catch you all when I return. Au revoir. (Cheri, that's goodbye in French.... ;).....)

Grateful Friday

2007-02-23T14:59:00.000-07:00

Having a fantastic playdate yesterday at the park with friends, Petra and Stef
Finishing 2 knitting projects this week! WOOT!
Discovering my new favorite latte: Grande Organic 3-pump almond latte
Enjoying knitting last night with the above in hand and a toffee almond bar in another
Getting a ton of housework done this week so I can actually enjoy the weekend without guilt
Finishing 2 special projects this week that have been on the agenda for months and feeling a great sense of accomplishment because of it
Always having warm shelter, food on the table and love from family
New jeans
Getting to go on another knitting "field trip" with Anne tomorrow to Jessica's
Talking a TON to my sister this week and getting all warm and mushy inside about seeing her in a week and a half
The Mister bringing me lunch home today on the sly...one of my favs: chicken walnut sandwich on whole grain bread, veggie pasta salad and a warm chocolate chip cookie
The Buggernut napping today so I could enjoy that yummy lunch, watch 2 episodes of 24 and knit to my heart's content

Have a super weekend everyone!

Classic Buggernutism

2007-02-20T18:10:00.000-07:00

Tonight at dinner The Buggernut was less than cooperative. I think if I let her she would have just eaten tortilla chips and none of the black bean burritos I made. She was being a real stink at one point and wouldn't eat and was blatently laughing when the dh would tell her to eat. So he said...Wipe that smile off your face, I'm serious, you need to eat. So what did she do....she took her napkin, looked right at him and said...okay, I'm wiping the smile off...and proceeded to wipe her mouth. She took the napkin off her mouth and frowned. Little stinker. Of course, me being the nice, supportive mom that I am had to leave the table because I was laughing so hard.

I'm addddddddicted....adddicted....so adddddicted...

2007-02-18T19:50:00.000-07:00

to Dove. Seriously. Addicted. I must have eaten an entire bag this past week. You know those heart shaped numbers in the cutesy foil wrappers with a little fortune on the inside. I only like the dark chocolate ones though. I figure dark chocolate is high in antioxidants...so when I'm stuffing my face like a kid on Christmas, all I think is well, blueberries have antioxidants too, right? And so does green tea which is healthy...so a bag of chocolate must be too...plus it tastes better. Mmmmmmm......

So peeps. If you want to show me some love....it doesn't take diamonds...it takes Dove.

What's your latest adddddiction?

Grateful Friday

2007-02-16T19:37:00.000-07:00

Okay so I've been absent. And busy. And I can't talk knitting cause it's all secretive right now 'cause it's for a few people that read this here blog. Ehem. I promise there will be pics soon. After the gifties are gifted.

In Grateful Friday News:

My sister, Sara and I talked EVERY day this week. Today was almost a record day. Not quite though 'cause I think we've talked a bit longer. By the time we ended the call it was approx 2 hours and 50 minutes. **Okay, Rich, if you read my blog, which would be weird considering you are my BIL, please just erase that from your memory.** Anywho, I'm seriously grateful for my sister, who makes me laugh with random comments about how even though Gwyneth Paltrow is considered an America-hater, she still loves her. Only 19 more days till I see her in person!!!
My MIL. Yes, I said my MIL. She has been watching Syd for me every Tuesday morning lately so I can get out and have some me time. This past Tuesday I ran 7 ERRANDS...7! ALONE. It was heaven. Yes, errands all you childless people who are shaking your heads saying why is this chic happy about running errands alone and considers that me time...you just WAIT!
My dh and I have a date scheduled tomorrow. This is a ture novelty since I can't remember the last time we went out alone. We are going here to see this. The dh saw it was coming to town so I arranged for above sitter and we are going tomorrow. I can't wait!
Getting our van detailed today. It looks SOOO nice. I lurve me a clean car.
The Buggernut. As crazy as she drives me....she is also so sweet and caring. I love her heart.
Getting another opportunity this weekend to work at Rescue's Open House. We had 6 cats adopted this past week and we are hoping for more thru this event.

Have a super weekend everyone!

Rescue Rocks

2007-02-05T07:55:00.000-07:00

This weekend was Buuuuuusy but great. Saturday started off with The Nut and I going to Rescue's annual volunteer picnic. The whole idea is for all the volunteers to mingle and meet one another...I love this because I work with the same group of people all the time and never get to meet the people that do different things within the organization. Everyone at Rescue has the same passion...saving lives. We all have a really strong love for all the animals we have in our "system" and they become like our own. It's bittersweet when we have an adoption because as much as we want that dog or cat to find their forever home, we miss them so much. This week alone we had 5 cats adopted from the Feline Care Center, where I work and train people. We also had 4 cats put down from the equivalent of Parvo. It was a happy, but sad week. But, the more space we have, the more animals we can rescue from senseless deaths at our local pounds.

I started working for Rescue about 4 years ago. I'm not really even sure where I heard about it, but I signed up immediately and started orientation the following week. I worked every Tuesday night and every other Saturday until I was 5 months pregnant, when my OB told me it would be better if I waited until after The Nut was born to volunteer again. It's a dirty job, what I do, and he didn't want to risk anything happening to me or the baby. I took over a year and a half off, but last February I started back up at Rescue every other weekend. I didn't realize how much I missed it. It's the most rewarding thing I do, besides raising Buggernut and I'm so proud to be a part of it. This past September, I was asked by the person who runs the Center if I could take over all the new volunteer training...I was thrilled. Not only could I spend more time there, but I could really teach people coming in how to do the job the way it needs to be done...something that hasn't been taught in the past because we didn't really have a formal training program. It's been going so well and I've met some great volunteers in the process. My work at Rescue is for ME. It's my haven, my good feeling, my contribution. So, this weekend I was blown away that I was recognized with an Outstanding Acheivement Award for the work I have done this past year. I cried. I did. I felt so touched that I was actually recognized for something I really never considered getting recognition for. It's not like a job to me...it's more of a passion. To be honored for something you love, that is the best feeling ever. I feel like I should be giving Rescue an award...for saving so many lives and for touching mine each and every day.

Grateful Friday

2007-02-02T16:07:00.000-07:00

This week I am grateful for:

The Buggernut being creative. I love that she'd rather paint, color (even on the windows and walls), draw with chalk, play with her MagnaDoodle, playsilks etc than watch TV. I LOVE that.
Trader Joe's Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups
Organic Half Caff Extra Hot Hazelnut Lattes (yes, I'm semi-back on coffee)
My taxes being done
5 cats being adopted from Rescue this week and Dean, our former foster kitty, being in foster again with a potential adopter!
Super Bowl Sunday!!!
3/4 sleeved Old Navy perfect fit tees
Having a productive knitting week
Several knitting trades on Knitty that will result in me getting some Socks that Rock, Lorna's Laces, Socks Soar on 2 Circulars and Austermann Step sock yarn! WHAT WHAT!!!
Being healthy this week
Breyers Coffee Ice Cream
Talking to my mom several times this week

I hope you all have a great weekend. The 'Nut and I are heading to Rescue's Volunteer Picnic tomorrow and then Sunday we will gorge ourselves on lots of fattening food while watching the Super Bowl. I plan on getting some more knitting done and starting on one of my new Jane Austen books, Emma, that came in the mail the other day! Have a good one!

Can't a girl getta shower 'round here?

2007-01-31T13:01:00.000-07:00

I stay home one day a week to clean and catch up on house stuff. The other 6 days are filled with activities, errands etc...but I allow myself a day to just get up, stay in PJs and clean. Since I just pop out of bed and start cleaning, it's pointless to shower first thing, so I usually wait till the Buggernut is down for a nap. Today, however, I felt particularly nasty after scuubbing floors on my hands and knees and cleaning bathrooms. So, I decided to set the Nut up with a coloring book and crayons and take a 5 minute shower. *5* Minutes. That's all I was gone. In 5 minutes, all but 3 windows in the house...which she can't reach...were covered in blue crayon. But, not JUST the windows...the windowsills, the walls next to the windows, one blind slat, and her desk. I didn't know whether or not to be more upset about the people that gift my 2 year old child faux-Crayola non-washable crayons, or me for actually not just throwing out the faux-Crayola non-washable crayons and instead putting them in the crayon bin, or the Nut for choosing that particular faux-Crayola non-washable crayon to color all over the place. Needless to say, after an hour long date with Mr. Clean and his Magic Eraser (read: chemical filled miracle worker), the crayon was gone and all the faux-Crayola non-washable crayons were in the trash. And now, a plea on behalf of all the parents of young children in America....PLEASE FOR THE LOVE OF ADAM spend the extra 20 cents and buy the kid real Crayola washable crayons!

Grateful Friday

2007-01-26T07:47:00.000-07:00

This has been an awesome week really...I got a lot done and I'm pretty much caught up with everything around here finally. Now I can start on big projects like shredding mounds of paperwork from last year, preparing the taxes, cleaning the closets etc...can we say OCD?

I'm grateful for lots this week:

Fair trade hot cocoa....I'm pretty much off coffee (okay, I might break this when I'm in CT and there is a Dunkin' Donuts on every corner...)
Knit night. I LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE getting together with the girlies and knitting away. There is always lots of laughing, knitting help, funny stories and an overall sense of friendship. It really recharges me to be around these women every week.
Knitting. I am so grateful that I finally found my "thing". It's soothing, fun, and I love creating things from scratch for the people I love.
My new Starbucks mug. It's pink and brown OF COURSE, and adorable. My wallet couldn't resist it last night.
The Buggernut. She makes me laugh. I love to laugh. She also gives the best sleepy warm hugs first thing in the morning.
Walking In Memphis by Marc Cohn. I love this song. I heard it on my way home from knitting last night and walked in the door and told the Mister...he downloaded it right away. It was one of those songs we HAD to have played at our wedding reception. LOVE.
Booking my airline tickets to go see my favorite girls in March.
Flannel sheets
Orange Patchouli candles
Freedom

I hope you all have a fabulous weekend. Ours will be filled to the brim...car goes in for some work, work meetings, flag football, and filling a shift and training at Rescue. See you next week!

Tink's Fingerless Mitts

2007-01-25T09:18:00.000-07:00

Wristwarmers from Last Minute Knitted Gifts
Recipient: Cheri
Yarn: Noro Cash Iroha Color #109 Light Pink - 2 balls
Needles: Clover 8" Size 6 Circs, Clover Bamboo Size 6 DPNs
Modifications: I made these longer than the ones I made before. I added a 16 row repeat to make these fall well below the wrist. The pattern is written so that the warmer ends just below the wrist bone...I wanted to lengthen these so I did order 2 balls but only used about 1 1/2.
***These are super soft and I love the way they fit. I'm definitely making a pair for me soon!
I sent a few extra goodies in Cheri's package. She is the lovey that made the last 2 banners for my blog so I wanted to hook her up. We'll see if she post pics of the other things in her package on her blog soon! ENJOY Cheri. I hope these keep you nice and warm!

My lil' critter

2007-01-23T15:56:00.000-07:00

Lil' Critter Hat
Courtesy of Sara
Yarn: Hand dyed 100% Peruvian Wool from "The Shop that Shall Not Be Named"
Needles: Size 8 Peace Fleece Birch...a gift from Anne
Model: The Buggernut

This hat was so fast. I finished it in a few hours...including the seaming! Love it!

Grateful Friday

2007-01-19T11:34:00.000-07:00

The Mister and I seemed to have dodged the puke bug. Knock on wood.
The Buggernut is feeling much better. Any parent will tell you how hard it is to watch your child be so sick and not be able to "fix" it...it's a helpless feeling. I am grateful today that she is feeling well and is starting to eat normal stuff again.
Talking to my sister for insane amounts of time this week. It's really become a bit of an addiction. I'm so looking forward to flying up to see her in a month and a half.
My pink Chuck Taylors
The white hydrangea that is blooming in a pot on my dining room table. It reminds me of Nantucket in the summertime.
Rainy days
Jack Bauer...yumma yum.
Having a husband who works incredibly hard and was my rock this week.
Meeting my aunt for breakfast tomorrow at Wildflower. It will probably be one of the last times we get to do this since she moves in a few months. I love my alone girl talk time with her.
This yarn I saw this morning at Scout's blog...I'm going to order the pink and brown colorway in the bulky Louet...yummmmm...

Have a super weekend!

Dah blahs

2007-01-16T09:38:00.000-07:00

I've got a case...a bad case of the blahs. The Buggernut got the stomach flu this weekend so I've been gagging...okay cleaning, for days with it in the back of my mind that I might also be the recipient as well. YUCK.
I still haven't downloaded pictures from Christmas yet, my house is a mess, I need to go grocery shopping and to Target but can't leave the house yet because Bug is JUST starting to eat again. I feel so behind.

On the knitting front, I did finish Cheri's wristwarmers yesterday and they are FAB. I made them about 2 inches longer than the ones I made before. I like them a lot better. So, once I download the 151 pictures from Christmas and take new pics of these, I promise to post them....don't hold your breath. ;) And Cheri, I promise I kept them far away from all nasty bugs and washed my hands about 50 times before I even touched them. Me no passy le germs.

My Resolution

2007-01-06T08:06:00.000-07:00

In the year 2007 I resolve to:
Lovingly care for my chia pet.

Get your resolution here.

Can someone tell me if this means my hair or a real chia pet?

Comments left on my blog...

2007-01-04T21:26:00.000-07:00

Okay I'm having issues with the comments section of my template so if you want to leave a comment you have to go to the main blog page and click on the number next to the title of the post you want to leave a comment under. It will let you leave a comment that way. If you just click on the post and try to leave a comment under "Leave A Reply" it won't allow you to and will come up with a POSTDATA error. So until I can get this figured out please use the main page next to the title to leave me a comment....oh and if you are HTML god/goddess and can figure out what the heck I need to change in my template that would rock my socks off too. ;)

Props

2007-01-04T14:41:00.000-07:00

To Tinkalicious for the new Knitalicious header! Is she the Bizomb or what?

I PROMISE I will download some pics this week from Christmas and knitting progress. I've been busy trying to get my habitat back into order and cleaning like a crazy person. I guess that's what happens when you don't clean for a month because the Christmas decs mask the house goo.

Grateful Friday

2006-12-29T10:24:00.000-07:00

Well we are winding down from a busy week here at Chez Wannabe. My head is spinning just trying to recall all that we did. The nicest part of this holiday has been our family time. Because of The Mister's wonky schedule we rarely have time to do things as a family...usually it's just Buggernut and I. The Mister was able to secure 10 days off...IN.A.ROW! We took the Bug to Zoolights, spent time playing outside, went for walks, made huge family dinners, baked, put together and played with endless toys and have overall just had a dandy week.

I'm grateful this week for so many things.

1. My little girl who is the love of my life. This Christmas was so much fun with her this year and I loved seeing the light and joy in her face.

2. Family time. See above.

3. Getting totally spoiled for Christmas. Among my favorite things were this from the Mister and these from my sister. Oh and did I mention the mountains of cash with which I bought these and these
and this that goes on a strap like this but with embroidery thread thoughout it...LOVE.

4. My sisters.

5. Meeting Anne at Stonegrounds back in February...not knowing then how she would become a great friend, someone to laugh with and an awesome knitting companion.

I hope everyone has a fantastic New Year. I'll be back with knitting content and photos after this weekend.