Pictures Galore

I've finished many projects this week and hope to finish even more throughout the holiday. Many folks have asked how I get so much done. 1. I work really fast and 2. I don't sleep much and I don't clean house. It works well for me. Here are the pictures of what I've been finishing up this week.




Mason Dixon Nesting Boxes BEFORE felting


Wooly Stripes Felted Tote and Finished Baby Surprise Jacket (needs buttons)


My "Farm" tote bag and 12 Tea towels hemmed and ready to embroider


4 Litte skirts for Anna - these have been around a while - I just sewed them together and finished them up this week as part of my "Finish What You Have" project

I've been very productive for the last 10 days or so and it feels good. I only have the two projects to finish for the shop before I get to start working on Christmas projects. The trick to that is which to start first. The projects I've picked out are all fun and I want to make them all RIGHT NOW!!!

I am inadvertanly taking part of the Summer ofStash (with the exception of the Noro) project. I have been making things (including the above) with items I have onhand. I can make gifts for nearly all of our entire holiday roster without a single new purchase. That doesn't speak well of my past aquisition habits, but I'm looking forward to using onhand items up.

July is PURPLE month for Project Spectrum and I'll have to search through the Christmas list projects for a purple one. The new Silk Garden is for me so that won't count yet - I'll start something with that after I get a few of the Christmas items under my belt. I think the Bloom Shawl from Knitty is in purple yarn - maybe I'll start with that.

Hey anyone know what's up with the Podcasts lately? I know Brenda from Cast-on is on break, but my other favorite, Knitty D & The City seems to be in the wind right now too. Wendy & Christina I miss You!!!! I hope Molly is feeling better!

That's it for me for the night - maybe I'll finish up the Wooly stripes bag after we get the kids in bed.

P.S. - Andrea I hope you are home safely to your family! Sleep well!

I'll keep you posted!

AmyDe

Picures will Come with the Morning Light

I finished the baby surprise jacket and the Mason Dixon Boxes and am working on the crochet bag and one more felted project for the shop - then on to Christmas knitting! I'm all organized and ready for the Christmas projects - patterns pulled, yarn decided, etc. Now I just have to finish these two shop projects and I can get going on everything! I can't wait!!!

I'll have before pics of the Nesting Boxes from Mason Dixon Knitting tomorrow as soon as I get some sunlight. I'll also shoot photos of the finished BSJ and the Wooly Stripes in progress bag.

I'll keep you posted!

AmyDe

Inquiring Minds Want to Know...

What are your favorite yarns and why? Specifically and catagorically. I want to see what everyone else chooses before I let you know what my all time faves are.

Leave me a comment and I'll post my faves soon.

I'll keep you posted!

AmyDe

Organized and Neat are NOT the same...

I get teased - ok harassed by family and friends and myself as well because I am NOT "neat" by any stretch of the imagination. Hey - that's why I pay someone to clean the house. I must point out however that NEAT is NOT the same as organized, and while I often can't find my keys it's usually because the kids have moved them. Now when I want to find my dressmakers shears - Satan himself better look out if they are not where I left them... With that said - photos of some sewing and knitting projects I've been working on over the past week or so:


Baby Surprise Jacket and Granny Square "Bag"

Dulaan Hats


Handmade DPN case for Katey

Noro Silk Garden color 224

I've also sewn several dresses and skirts for Anna and am having fun working on everything. It's nice to use up some of the things in my fabric stash finally. Now - if there were only more hours in the day...

I'll keep you posted!

AmyDe

Confession is Good for the Soul

Yeah? Well... Here Goes:

I have never bought or knit with Noro yarn! EEEEKKK! Gasp! eegads!

Nope, never, not once. Mostly - I don't like to give KFI my money - besides it's way expensive! Well I finally caved (while shopping with Katey) this weekend and jumped in with both feet. I bought 12 balls of Silk Garden in a purpley/olivey colorway. It's PRETTY!!!!

Of course the silk garden has no intended purpose or higher calling as yet, but I'm sure I'll find something to do with it sooner or later.

I'm not sure what happened to my camera - I think its upstairs, but I'll find it tonight and take lots of pics to post.

I'm almost finished with the baby suprise jacket for the shop and the crochet granny square bag is in the assembly process (then it must be felted) and I'm working on another felted bag for the shop which should be completed by the weekend. After all of those are completed and squared away I have TONs of Christmas knitting and sewing to get underway. I HATE HATE HATE waiting until the last minute so I'll get things going now and be ready by late fall with everyone's gifts.

What are all of you knitting/making for Christmas? Leave me a comment!!!

I'll keep you posted!

AmyDe

What Looks Like Crazy on an Ordinary Day...

Just in case you thought you were an obsessed knitter - check this one out!

I'll keep you posted!

AmyDe

Weekend Update...

Had game night Friday night and had a blast - not sure quite how Travis took it, but we had fun and he's great - hope we haven't scarred him for life.

Worked Saturday and had a good time there too - slow easy day. We did get the July/August classes outlined so hopefully a calendar is forthcoming this week - we still have some tweaking to do.

Father's Day was nice. I made Daddy's favorite dinner and everyone came to the house to eat. We then played more games and I won everything!!!! - Gee - I'm not competitive am I? We taught Taylor how to play poker and the wench came up with an ace high flush! She drew to an ace high flush! Beginner's luck. Of course we bankrupted Casey - poor guy - he's too honest and REALLY cannot bluff.

On the knitting front: I'm working on another Baby Surprise Jacket - this on in sock yarn and for the store. I'm about 1/2 way finished. It's fun and mindless, but after a while it gets dreadfully boring so I made two more samples for the store - baby booties out of Baby Alpaca
Brush - they are cute and quick - great break from endless garter stitch. I'll take pictures tomorrow at the shop and try to get them posted ASAP.

I've also started working on a crochet design for a class I'll be teaching in July or August. It's a felted crochet tote bag. I can't wait to see how it turns out - so far it's looking pretty cute and I'm excited about it - Andrea you'll have to help me find some funky fabric for the lining!

I've also been sewing this week. I've sewn (just finishing to do yet) 5 little dresses for Anna and I want to make it clear that I LOVE my serger!!!! Anyone who knows me has heard this before - but I LOVE my serger!!! I'll take lots of pics today and tomorrow and get them uploaded for your viewing pleasure...

"Can I get some spaghetti with my meeples?"

I'll keep you posted!

AmyDe

Meeple Meeple Who's got the Meeple???

hee hee hee!

I'll keep you posted!

AmyDe

So Much To Tell

Arriving Soon to a LYS (well this LYS anyway) Near You...

More Crystal Palace Iceland
Silk & La Boheme from Fiesta
Fiddlesticks Lace Patterns
Lorna's Laces Yarns
Great Adirondack Yarns
TONS of fun felting wool
Malabrigo Hand-Dyed Merino
Great New Yarns from Berroco, Trendsetter, Cascade, Plymouth and more
Lace Yarn & Patterns
Lots of new Books
Lots of new ideas
Lots of new inspiration!

You'll have to come in and check it all out. Products will be arriving nearly daily from now until September.

I'll keep you posted!

AmyDe

Home Again Home Again...

Jiggity Jig. More tomorrow - I'm still tired!

I'll keep you posted!
AmyDe

To Market To Market....

to buy a fat pig!

I'll keep you posted!
AmyDe

It's a tough job, but someone has to do it!

My job - working at a yarn shop (not the being a mommy part) is hard - let me tell you!

I spend all day surrounded by beautiful yarn and lovely patterns, charming people (ok there are a few doozies, but it's retail and let's face it - you're not going to like EVERYONE you meet), and pure inspiration.

Take for instance this past Saturday - I worked a 13-hour day. We sat with two different yarn reps for a total of 8 different yarn companies and shopped for 10 hours non-stop. We were so exhausted that we had to replenish ourselves with dinner at Provino's. Tough work I'm telling you!

LMAO

Ok so really I did work 13 hours on Saturday - if you consider it "work" Isn't that what everyone tells you - find something you LOVE to do and you'll never work another day - it's true.

We bought gorgeous yarns and I cannot wait until things start arriving! I also cannot wait until market this weekend. It's is tons of fun - it is work and it is exhausting, but it is glorious! I am so very blessed to have the opportunity to work with Ginger and Dana - they are really wonderful and I love them!

I've got photos!!! First here are a few of the Mason Dixon washcloths I keep working on:


There there are craftroom photos: - it looks bad, but let me assure you - it's 100 times better than where it started - right girls? It's still coming along and hopefully I'll have ti workable before I leave for market!





I'll keep you posted!

AmyDe

Down to the Good Stuff

I promised links - useful one earlier and here are a few.

First - Podcasts! I am thoroughly enjoying many of them and is you are new to podcasts I suggest starting HERE with Brenda Dayne - WONDERFUL!!!! I also like Crochet Cast, Pointy Sticks, and Knitcast. These podcasts (all knit & crochet) are all fairly mainstream and quite enjoyable. There are a few new ones I'm trying out this week (more 'on the fringe') and I'll let you know how they go.

Second - Do Something Good! Knit for others F.I.R.E. has the Dulaan Project and they are in need If that's not for you or the deadline is too close - google "charity knitting" and find somewhere to share your talent and blessings to bless someone else.

Third - NO MORE U.F.O.s!!! I'm not one for Stash-a-longs, or yarn diets, though I do want to use some of the beautiful stash I have aquired, but THIS I can really get behind!!! It's a Finish What You Have project. What a grand idea! Most of the things we have lying around unfinished just need a little bit more work to be completed - so let's get to it and Finish what we have!

Fourth - I'm making HUGE progress on the craftroom/classroom and cannot wait to be finished so I can really get to the fun sort of work in there - you know teaching, sewing, knitting, scrapbooking, etc. It's very exciting and the idea that I will actually be able to use the room as intended is truly motivating - or maybe it's just that I'd rather work in there than figure out what to pack for my travels next week.

Check out the links above and have a great weekend!

I'll keep you posted!
AmyDe

You So Owe Me...

And YOU know who you are!

I missed lots of folks at knit night last night (I forgot it was guild night). Hopefully we can all get together this weekend and hang out.

Another NOT G RATED link - really - don't follow the link if you were offended by the last Non-G link - however if you thought the last one was &*%^#@@^ hilarious HERE you go.

On the knitting front - I finished a "Baby Genius Burp Cloth" from the Mason Dixon book and I'm working on hats from leftover Zara & Zara plus now. I am getting organized and things are coming together. I have too much stuff (go figure). There are lots of interesting links I want to post (useful stuff not just fun), but I'll get to that later. Right now I have to go and clean while my kids are occupied with coloring!

I'll keep you posted!

AmyDe

Movie Reviews

We went to two movies this weekend and saw one more from Netflix. First - Shop Girl - boo hiss - slow, confusing, sort of pointless, and downright weird at times (Andrea you'll love it!).

Then X3 - Great (mostly) - they blow lots of stuff up and it's got some twists & turns that are fun. I didn't like the way they played Rogue, but I haven't liked the way they've played her character though the entire series so...

today - Over The Hedge - completely charming.

Not too mych knitting going on the past few days - still working on the boxes as I get the urge, but mostly just hanging out and doing "home" stuff.

I'm cleaning out/up and organizing my craftroom. It has been in a state of disarray since Christmas when we moved Anna into my former craftroom and eliminated the playroom (current craftroom). It's a slow process, but we're getting there a little at a time - those of you who have seen it first hand REALLY understand.

I thought about joining the Summer of Stash, but then thought better of it. I work IN a yarn shop for pity's sake - what chance do I stand at only using stash yarns ALL summer - especially when my job in two weeks is to go and buy TONS of yarn at market. I do need to get working on several WIPs and UFOs - the list is still there in the sidebar and I haven't crossed anything off in a long time. Time to get back to it! I'll get good pics of finished items tomorrow and post them up.

I'll keep you posted!
AmyDe

Night of the Snorting Wildebeasts...

Otherwise known as Knit Night. We laughed so hard and so loudly I thought Laurie would pass out and I would wet my pants. Just girl stuff I guess because none of it was THAT funny. We were in rare form. I had the best time and we were lucky that no one snarfed pizza through their nose. I think we all came home with a headache from laughing so much.

Moving on (though I wish not, we had a great time) I finished a baby bib and several more Mason Dison Washcloths. I'm working on felted boxes now and as soon as the turquoise iceland comes in I'll be able to finish 2 sets of boxes. I'm not sure what I'll work on next. Probably more shop samples.

The shop looks GREAT!!! It was so comfortable last night even with 14 - 14 people there knitting and chatting. We didn't even really bother anyone with our insanity (which can't be said for everyone). Also - for the girls check this out (it's not G-rated so if you're not 18 - don't hit the link - or go ask your mom).

Maybe I'll find the camera tomorrow and snap some photos. I'm really looking forward to the holiday weekend - Casey has time off and it will be nice to be home!

I'll keep you posted!

AmyDe

Just a Hint....

You'll have to visit to see the TWO PAGE complete sale list!!! Until then (no pics sorry I forgot the camera):

Just a few things:
Buy One Get One FREE:
Baby, Equinox Stripe, and lots more

50% off ALL Cherry Tree Hill Yarn

10% off ALL books

That's all I can tell you tonight!!

I'll keep you posted!
AmyDe

Drumroll Please......

The shop WILL open Monday @ 10 a.m. TONS of things (nearly the entire store) will be on sale - GOOD STUFF!!! I'll give you all a hint later tonight. I'll also have a few "sneak peek" pictures. I cannot wait! I'll be working hard restocking all afternoon. You guys are going to freak out when you see the place!

Also I'll post a omplete list of sale items on Monday just in case anyone out of town wants anything for a GREAT price!

Keep checking in just because of these five little words "Buy One Get One FREE."

I'll keep you posted!

AmyDe

My Weekend

All boiled down - new computer, monumentally difficult mother's day, lots of knitted & crocheted dishcloths.

I'm like a woman possessed with the dishcloth insanity. It's fun and it keeps my hands busy. I really should move on to something else, but why?

We ate lunch at Ted's yesterday - because what better to do when you're having a really crappy day than drown it in red meat and onion rings? I wished it had been Cheeburger Cheeburger - then I could have added milkshakes to the list, but alas - Chattanooga wasn't on the agenda.

My friends came to see me today and I got some wonderful belated birthday gifts - Thank You Andrea!!! I have a fabulous new red hat and lots of little yummy goodies too. I love it all. Mostly I love that my friends came to see me and we just sat and did nothing together.

Hopefully some fun pictures tomorrow - I'm tired today and am going to veg on the couch for a while!

I'll keep you posted!
AmyDe

Mother's Day

Hard does not even begin to describe yesterday. There are not words. I was ok most of the time, but moments and fits were inerspersed throughout the day without warning.

I got the new computer as a birthday/mother's day gift and I also got Rachael Ray's new Express Lane Meals cookbook. I LOVE Rachael Ray and her cookbooks. She's adorable and charming and has the right philosophy about dinner - if it can't be on the table in 30 minutes - don't do it!

I am very excited about the new cookbook and will finally start cooking again - I haven't done much of that since Mom died in March and it's begining to be a problem!

I like o have people over for dinner instead of going out. It's less expensive and more fun, tastes better and I don't have to make my kids sit still while we talk and laugh afer dinner. I'm looking forward to being at home more and to making a home more. It's time and I'm ready.

The shop will be open in about another week. There has been so much to do with the remodeling and restocking, etc. It is going to look totally different and I'm excited about it. We're going to open up with a HUGE sale and it's going to be GREAT!!!

Thanks to all who called, emailed, and kept me in their prayers yesterday - I felt it and I truly appreciate it.

I'll keep you posted!
AmyDe

"Always Look on the Darkside of Life..."

Ok so my songtitle is adapted (if an obscure MP reference) and I'm not looking on the darkside of things really - just referencing my jump to the darkside of computing. I am now a Mac owner. I NEVER thought I (of all people) would EVER own a Mac.

Now all you Mac users and lovers out there please don't flame me, but come on - really I'm a P.C. user and I was happy.

You see they seduce you with those little Ipods. They seem cute and harmless enough right, when in actuality - the Ipod Nano is the tribble of the Apple universe. It's so cute and it's friendly and then there are all these friends (accessories) you can bring home to play with it. Suddenly BOOM! Tribble Trouble = Mac Owner!

I will say it's pretty cool and it's sooooooo quiet! Katey and Jana - it's quieter at my house now. I still don't know how to use the darn thing, but I'm learning.


I'll keep you posted!

AmyDe

My Anna

My Anna (5) is quite an amazing kid if I do say so myself. She is my joy. Yesterday she told me that she's going to have 2 jobs when she grow up. I asked her which two jobs she was going to have and she replied (in all of her 5 year-old wisdom) "A ballerina girl, and the tooth fairy."

I think those are perfect jobs!

I'll keep you posted!
AmyDe

p.s. - I found my #8 DPNS - thanks

Just when you thought you'd seen everything...

You find THIS. also I have pictures!!! I finished 5 baby bibs and 2 baby washcloths for my SIL shower - not bad for $4.00 huh? And I seamed up the EZ Baby surprize jacket. I also made some felted crochet bowls for teacher gifts. I made a bunch of the bowls. I mean really - why make one when you can make, say, 10. That's right - 10 - in less than a week. Crochet is FAST!!! I still have two more to felt and don't have pics of most of them b/c we gave them to the kids teachers today, but they were cute too!






I also found the Mason Dixon KAL page today and will probably post to it later as I've already completed the baby kimono (also for my SIL) and am in the middle of the petal shaped dishcloth (need some size 8 DPNs to finish). I'll be making the slip stitch dishcloths soon too as well as several other items from the book. Have I mentioned that I LOVE this book? I think one of the reasons I like it so much is that all of the items in it are things you can actually USE - and most are really quick to finish.

Thanks to all who wished me well on my birthday. I had a good day. Katey & Jana took me to dinner and then we went to the knitting guild meeting, which was kind of a snore (annual officer elections, etc. -zzzzzz), but we had fun and laughed alot. It was a really hard day for me without my mom, but Super friends and a GREAT family loved me through it.

My friend Laurie is in a rough spot with her mom again - virtual prayers and hugs to her right now please.

I'll keep you posted!

AmyDe

Calvin or Hobbes

A Bit Of Both You are 60% Calvin and 40% Hobbes

Calvin & Hobbes, like a scruffy yin and yang, are in perfect balance within you. Like Calvin, you're weird, a bit insecure, and can be a trouble-maker. But like Hobbes, you're down to earth and sensitive. It's a risk to say it here, after just a ten question test, but I'll bet you're smarter than most. Both Calvin and Hobbes are crafty, clever characters, and any one made from equal parts of each is a force to be reckoned with.

My test tracked 2 variables How you compared to other people your age and gender: You scored higher than 63% on calvin You scored higher than 20% on hobbes

Link: The Calvin Or Hobbes Test written by gwendolynbooks on Ok Cupid, home of the 32-Type Dating Test

Catching Up and Early Birthdays

I'm 3 weeks behind on podcast listening. I MUST get them downloaded and transferred to my ipod soon. I really have missed them. I'm shooting pictures of finished projects tonight (after the batteries charge).

So today I shopped and went to lunch with my dad and the kids, and then I shopped some more - this time for fun. Anna and I (Toby went to Grampy's house) went to the mall to pick her out a new bedspread - they didn't have it and we'll order it online, but I did get my ear pierced again. I had her put both in one ear. I've been wanting my ear pierced again for a long time so to help ease the birthday funk I went for it. Then we went to the Bath & Body works sale - yummy!

Am I the only one who knits/crochets (usually crochet it's easier to stop) at red lights and in traffic? Truly only at red lights and in traffic - please - I have kids in the car.

The shop is going to be Fantastico! A former boss of my husband once told him "there are no problems, there are only opportunities" Casey's response was "Well then Bill, we've got one HELL of an opportunity!" We are taking the opportunity of the flood of 06 - to completely remodel the shop. We are doing so much so fast and it's going to look and be great! More room, more color, more yarn, more fun for everyone!

I am very excited about the shop and cannot wait to see it all in place!

I'll keep you posted!

AmyDe

A Lady of Leisure

As much as one can be with two little ones I suppose. It's been nice having time off, albeit bittersweet. I've been getting tons done. It's not like I worked that much, but somehow it seems that I have more time to knit/corchet/sew/whatever. It's weird.

I think Andrea (though now she's out of town for a week) being off at the same time is part of it. We ran around and hung out at the house nearly everyday last week. It was fun. Now she's out of town and the house is messy so I'm typing instead of doing housework.

I made 5 baby bibs and two baby washcloths, seamed up the EZ Baby Surprise Jacket, am almost finished with a baby Kimono (modified from Mason Dixon Knitting - GREAT BOOK), and I'm not sure what I'll work on next.

Let me tell you the Mason Dixon book is GREAT! It's tons of fun and has lots of cute projects. The bibs I made are crocheted - not from the Mason Dixon book, but they are really cute - I'll have pictures soon.

My birthday is this week - Thursday. Besides my Daddy taking me to Houston's for lunch (a 13 year tradition) I'm not sure what I'll be doing. I may go to the knitting guild meeting - if Casey is off work that day. I haven't decided. I'm having a really difficult time over my birthday without my mom.

Sooner or later I'll get back to my "On The Needles" list, but for now - it's whatever makes me feel good. Right now that's making things for my new nephew that's on the way. I'm going to make something for Anslea (big sister) also, but still not sure what - she's 10 maybe a purse?


Go see Katey's new craft room too. Gorgeous!

I'll keep you posted!

AmyDe

Don't Worry - the Yarn is Saved!

For those who are wondering - yes we lost some yarn, NO we didn't lose everything, we didn't lose that much at all really. All the clean-up is finished and the plumber has a little more work to do today (new toilet, new inside waterline) and then we begin planning reconstruction AND remodeling. We've still got a great deal of work ahead of us and we're taking the opportunity to do some remodeling.

So - when we reopen we will be fresh and funky and have a whole new look!

REST ASSURED: ALL YARN IN THE STORE IS GREAT!!!!!

I'll keep you posted!

AmyDe

The Great Flood of 06...

Well you see, there was a problem with the plumbing. Can you say UNDERSTATEMENT boys & girls - come on - I know you can.

Bottom line - plumbing/flood/gross/shop closing/plumber/sanitation crew/plumber/reconstruction/shop reopen - well in a week or two anyway.

So - what's new with you guys?

I'll keep you posted!

AmyDe

"Nothing Feels Like Ephedra"

Are all of you getting those in your inbox too? Junk email is such a pain!

I'm back - we spent Easter weekend in TN - Friday in Knoxville spending the day with my Mom's side of the family and Saturday and Sunday in Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg. It was bittersweet as we were there to memorialize my Mom so parts of it were really hard - especially for my Daddy. We had a good time overall.




These are some pictures of the weekend. The ponies and the camel were outside our hotel and leave it to my Anna to spot the camel. For an entire day she wanted to ride a camel and we had no idea what she was talking about - then she said - in all the 5-year old wisdom she could muster - "See - right there. I TOLD you there was a camel." - So a camel ride it was. I didn't get much knitting done and being with the entire family I didn't get to search out knitting shops on the trip, but I did finish two little kercheif scarves that I'll photograph tonight at the shop.

Tonigh is knit night and I'm very excited. I was at a baseball game last week which was FUN!!! But I've been out of the shop for nearly a week and I miss it.

I'll keep you posted!

AmyDe

Shop Photos, etc.

Andrea and I visited Genuine Purl in Chattanooga last week and had a blast having a girls day! We went to a boutique with gorgeous iteams, but the best part is that Martha Jo (name of shop) is a button designer. She designs buttons (manufactured not handmade) for couture lines like Vera Wang, Ralph Lauren, etc. and she also sells retail! It was really neat and we had a blast. Here are some photos of the shop in Chattanooga:






I'm behind on my Project Spectrum posting - I need to post my finished red/pink items and move on to yellow/orange. Maybe I can shoot those photos tonight and post them tomorrow.

I started the Leaf Lace Shawl last night with Cherry Tree Hill Merino lace. So far (a whopping 9 rows in) it's pretty easy. I had to put it down because I was watching T.V. and learning lace is NOT something to do whilst watching T.V. Maybe I'll get some quiet time today and have more to report tomorrow.

Andrea and I are going shop hopping again tomorrow - wish us luck!

I'll keep you posted!
AmyDe

My Friend is Hurting

My heart aches tonight as a dear friend waits to hear further diagnosis about her mother. I have been precisely where she is and I know firsthand how helpless she feels. I know that God put us in this friendship for His purposes and am grateful for that. I wish I could do something to ease her pain. I know that I cannot - no one can. Please pray for her and send your virtual hugs her way.

Andrea (still blogless) and I did get to Chattanooga and had a GREAT time - more on that another day.

Thanks to all of you!

I'll keep you posted!

AmyDe

I'm Learning!

Hey I'm learning about blog photos - getting there right?This is a photo of my last thrift store finds
- lots of pre-felted and feltable sweaters and 2 sweaters to recycle the yarn from (the lower right pink & green). I really LOVE the sweater with all the letters on it and I think it will become my next knitting bag.

The pink and green sweaters have already been turned into this:

Not bad - two (plus) sweaters' worth of yarn for Anna for less than $5.00!

I'll keep you posted!

AmyDe

Going on a Bear Hunt

Well we're going yarn crawling anyway... Tomorrow Andrea(blogless) and I will travel from here to Chattnooga to Genuine Purl - who else knows that store? It's a wonderful place with wonderful people and I can't wait!!!! This is the only time I'm busting the "Use What You Have" April. This trip has been planned for quite some time and we are really looking forward to it.

I'll take pictures and have stash addition (like I need more yarn) photos to share as soon as I recover from yarn overload! Right now I'm going to get the kids in bed for naps, put in a load of laundry, and then knit - it's a glamourous life I lead huh? Hey it's mine and I like it!

I'll keep you posted!

AmyDe

Photos & More

Hi! Back from the outburst of the weekend and here on a beautiful sunny day looking forward to the week. I just added a flickr badge with my stash photos on it in my sidebar - click on there to see my stash - ok well most - well some of my stash.

I didn't feel it necessary to (admit to) photograph the two very large bins of redheart and various acrylic yarn that I have for crocheting afghans - when you're making and afghan for a kid believe me - it's going to be acrylic. Also I'm finding yarn all over the house. I keep going "wait I didn't get a picture" - I think some things are better left undocumented don't you agree?

I also need to post all the red/pink knitting I did for project spectrum - we're on to April and yellow & Orange - really? Yellow & Orange? Hmmm - maybe something for Toby - hey his orange sweater that's on the UFO list over there might get it. I'll come up with something.

Have I told you lately that I have/had the best secret pal EVER!!!! I'm afraid that she might have led me to the dark side though. April - sent me not one but TWO drop spindles and the most beautiful navy/multi wool roving ever - along with directions of course! THANK YOU APRIL!!! I'll get photos up soon I promise!

I've been looking at the flash your stash photos of others (BTW my honey thinks that phrase is entirely wasted on yarn and should refer to something much more fun - for him) and while yeah I have alot of yarn - I am not alone. I just wish my storage area was as pretty as this

Oh well you can't have it all I suppose - if you did where would you put it?

I'll have more photos of fun stuff tomorrow!

I'll keep you posted!

AmyDe

WTF!?!?!?!

Ok - I'm more than a little angry! Heard through the powers that be today about THIS insanity and complete - ugh there are not words (scroll down to "hoppin mad" post). I'm too angry to speak without regretting the consequences so I'll let you all decide for yourselves.

Annie Modesitt is completely charming and we had a wonderful time during our visit and her teaching at our shop. We were so glad to have her and can't wait to do it again!

I'll finish my photos and "flash my stash" tomorrow.

I'll keep you posted!

AmyDe

I'm in love with my postal worker

Today is a GOOD mail day! I received orders from Elann and Knitpicks. Last week my Amazon order (partial) and some scrapbook stuff arrived and this week - yarn yarn yarn!!!!

Yes - I know - retail therapy is no solution for my grief - but it's mostly a timing thing - my husband's annual raise/bonus came through last week so many of the purchases were already planned. The Knitpicks sock yarn glut (16 balls) wasn't on the list - but come on - cut me a little slack at least it's really inexpensive right?

Why you may ask - when I work at a premiere yarn shop would I ever buy yarn anywhere else? Well two reasons - We don't have the sorts of things I ordered and it was really cheap!

I'll have pics tomorrow - the flickr thing look really easy and with the exception of pics of my kids - looks like a fun option for blog photos.

Yesterday I posted about Cast-On - a podcast I've been enjoying immensely. If you don't have an ipod - not to worry - go here and it will tell you everything you need to know about how to listen without an ipod

Thanks again to all of you guys!

I'll keep you posted!
AmyDe

Getting Through the Day

Thank You all very much for your love and support - please continue. I'm getting through the day a little easier now, but still...

My secret pal sent me lovely pink flowers, and others have been kind and generous as well.

On the knitting front - I've made two tiny baby "Apple" hats (hopefully a photo tomorrow) and ripped out a few things and - shhh don't tell my UFO's - started a baby sweater. I'm going to learn how to use flickr this week - everyone is doing such cute things with it and I'm going to jump on the bandwagon.

I joined this for April and will hopefully embrace the "Use What You Have" spirit for longer than April - goodness knows I could stay in the house and not need to buy anything crafty for well a REALLY long time. What can I say - I like "stuff."

My friend Katey just finished a felted bag made from all Noro scraps. Check it out - it's really pretty. Katey is a self-proclaimed "Noro-Slut" and after winding 6 skeins of blossom (bought on sale - yay!) yesterday I am beginning to understand.

I am quickly becoming a Debbie Bliss Baby Cashmerino fiend! I am making the EZ (that's Elisabeth Zimmerman - for new knitters) Baby surprise jacket and it's tons of fun. Hey two skeins of DB BC and some size 5 needles (that's where I got guage) and off we go. It makes it even more enjoyable that I got the yarn on sale YAY!

I sooooo need a swift and ball winder. I should just order them for myself through the shop, but that's alot of yarn money you know?

I am still working on the UFOs and am updating the list as needed. A few things have been finished, a few things have been frogged, and a few things have been - well - ignored. For instance I'm pretending that the bagsmith purse kit doesn't exist you see. I am doing this mostly because I hate the damned thing. Sure it's cute and all and the pattern is pretty good - no mistakes, kind of enteresting, not hard, but have you ever knitted with satin cording? Let's just say IT'S NOT FUN!!!!! It hurts my hands and it's slippery as h*** and I am really hating it - wait we're ignoring it - hating what? I'm not sure what you're talking about.

Oh well! I'm still here and I'm ok - I'm getting through the day and knitting. Oh BTW - if you don't already - go listen to Cast-On podcasts - they are great and fun and funny!

I'll keep you posted!
AmyDe

To Let You Know

I'll be blogging sporadically for a while - hopefully more and more sooner rather than later as I have made so many friends through this medium. My mom passed away this past weekend. I need your prayers and hugs (virtual) for a while please. Thank all my friends who are local and are here for me - you are keeping me going.

I'll keep you posted!
AmyDe

This Day!

Today has been a wonderful day! It is beautiful outside 75 & sunny with tons of flowers blooming, my children have been charming and well behaved and tons of fun, no bills were in the mail, and we spent the morning buying yarn from Mark & Susie @ Kollage.

We had a great time and have some really gorgeous things ordered. Mark & Susie are a blast and we really enjoyed their company.

Sorry about no pics yesterday - yesterday was - well hard. Knit night was wonderful and lots of fun and much needed releif after receiving heartbreaking news from one of my very best friends. Please keep my friend in your prayers.

I did take lots of pictures and will have them posted tonight after I get a refresher on how to resample them and upload them to our ftp. I'm a very smart and clever kind of gal and you'd think I'd learn how to do the pics, but somehow I'm just not interested in holding the information in my head yet. Hey it's more fun to hold on to stuff like we ordered "Romance" and "Blissful" from Kollage, and we just got in Sienna, Ananas, trio, porto cervo, and sesamo from Tahki.

Anyway - I hope you all have a wonderful Friday!

I'll keep you posted!
AmyDe

Ode to Calvin & Hobbes

After reading Mochi this morning I was reminded and reunited with my very favorite comic strip & comic artwork EVER, Calvin & Hobbes. His creative genius was reknowned and the fact that he could no longer be boxed into the Sunday paper format is inspring to me. I still have a folder full of my favorite strips from the paper - they were pinned to my walls in HS & college and some days were all that got me through the day.

What is it about that specific time in our lives that seems so magical and so pivotal? I could wax on about discovering ourselves and new found personal freedoms, but I think it was mostly boys and frat parties. Yep - that was it - stale beer in a cup and cover band while dancing in the parks. A time of very little responsibility and lots of organized fun - and someone else was paying all the bills. - Hey let's go back to that - I was good at school and my professors liked me - yeah - let's go back to that.

Ah, alas reality sets in as the children profess their hunger. Oh well. The batteries are chraged and I'll be taking pictures after I make breakfast for the munchkins.

To be continued...

I'll keep you posted!
AmyDe

While my Batteries Charge...

For the camera! - Get your mind out of there;-) Anyway pictures tomorrow or later tonight as the camera batteries are completely dead - both sets so... I've been working on the snakey scarf in Karaoke yarn and two - yes TWO red sweaters. Hopefully one will be finished for knit night and I can take it for show and tell.

March is my UFO month. There will be no UFO sightings in April (at least not any of these) so here is a list of things to finish - many of them are little bits of things that are just hanging around and some of them are bigger projects that I really need to get off my franny and get done - so deadline it is! March is decision time for these projects - some of them may need to find their final resting place at the bottom of the glorious frog pond - guess we'll see how it goes.

UFO's:
Wooly Stripes felted bag
Karaoke Snakey scarf
Michael's socks (Yes - THAT pair)
Toby's orange sweater
Mom's bulky pink house socks
Silk eye pillows
Lining & Ribbon Handles for Paintbox bag
Ribbon for Equinox stripe basket
Beaded handle for Easter basket
Pink Wrap/Shawl (it's been laguishing so long I had totally forgotten it)
Christmas stocking - toe & felting
Baby sock (#2 of pair for shop)
Pastel ankle socks (had to do something with all that yarn from the baby sock no?)
Anna's mohair/silk poncho -(finished & wearble, but still needs a few more flowers)
Purple Bagsmith Bag (what an albatross)
Seams in blue "Elaine" sweater (I had to rip the seaming out as it was UGLY)
Purple Baby bootie (seam the mate to the one in the shop)
Red "Laser" Sweater
Red Cotton Sweater
Susan's Afghan (crochet - but needs a little redesign)
Handles for 127 print bag (I REALLY HATE I-CORD!!!!!)
Zipper for Karoake felted pouch

See - most of those things are little and easily checked off, but I'm going to be busy getting everything else finished. Man it will feel good to check all these things off the list. Are you guys "LIST People" too? I find it so satisfying to mark things off - there's probably a self-help group for the level of obsession that I seem to have, but hey - it's still serving me well right now so...

Hey later this month, as I can see the light at the end of the tunnel (train - what train?) I'll post a list of my stash and projects I want to work on - if I face it all in print right now I think I'll fall over. I need to figure out how to post the UFO list in my sidebar so I can keep track & mark things off.

Tomorrow pictures - and I'll tell you about my doggies.

I'll keep you posted!
AmyDe

What a Week

It's been a long week here. I know I promised pictures, but... soon. I'm feeling better - thanks to all!

We had Annie Modesitt in the shop on Friday and we had the BEST time. Annie is delightful and charming, full of wit and wisdom and she taught us a few knitting things too *grin*. I hope everyone enjoyed her as much as I did.

We're building a new bed for Toby right now so I better get back to that - I LOVE Ikea! but wanted to send a quick update!

I'll keep you posted!
AmyDe

AAAACCKK!

Anyone remember Bill the Cat? I am having a truly aaaaccccckkk! day. I am short tempered (moreso than usual - stop laughing) and cranky and just in general scattered. What should be a perfectly enjoyable day - gorgeous outside and all - is well - just an effort.

This week started out on the wrong foot anyway - I'll spare you the details of stomach flu - and although it was fiendish - at least it was fast. I spent 24-hours sick and 24-hours on the couch recovering and am now trying to pull myself together enough to seem human. Meanwhile I'm being a crappy secret pal and am behind on other things too.

So I've decided. I have decided that today will be better.

I will stop yelling at my children - who, no matter how much it seems so, are NOT out to drive me over the edge and are really just being 5 & 3.

I will stop freaking out that the tiny post office nearest my house (nevermind the fact that there are 3 more within 15 minutes) is closed from 12 - 1 for lunch - (hey we don't close for lunch) and that my secret pal and other buddies - along with the coffee company, the book club, and the phone people, won't have their mail soon enough because I didn't get there until 12:34 and I didn't feel like going back after my other errands.

I won't worry if my kids have to drink kool-aid instead of milk for breakfast AGAIN tomorrow because the aforementioned 5 & 3 year old angels were not about to make it on a grocery run - hey wait maybe I can get Casey to do that one on the way home - depends on if I can hold out the extra 15 minutes it will take him.

I will try to stop holding my breath from when said 3 year-old went to the bathroom at the shop and brought 2 4-foot fluorescent lightbulbs crashing to the ground all around him when the toilet seat lid tumbled off the hinges (oops). You just can't get to them fast enough when things like that happen.

And - I won't cry too much when I have to rip out 4 rows of silk because I missed a set of increases that far back and yes - believe me I've tried to fudge it - it matters, and it must be ripped out. I suppose that's what happens when you try to knit while you are still sick and should be in bed.

YES. I have decided that today will be better - today WILL be better or I'm going to hurl something through a window just so I can hear that satisfying crashing sound (not satisfying when your children make it). Too bad knitting doesn't make that sound when you rip it out - wouldn't it be more gratifying?

I think Mommy needs a drink with dinner - maybe I'll have Casey pick up orange juice at the grocery.


Sorry for the gripes - back to knitting tomorrow I promise - hey and pictures too!

I'll keep you posted!

AmyDe

Ahh - Fresh as a Wet Sheep?

Yep - my house is filled with "odeur du felting." otherwise known as wet sheep stink. I've felted two bags today and may do two more - that is if I open some windows and get some breathable air in this place. I've been having fun though.

Getting Up to date:

Pictures this week I promise, but until then - I've ben knitting like crazy!

I've finished 4 felting projects (all but the felting of 2) a baby sweater, a pair of funky house-slippers, the multidirectional scarf, have started a spring sweater, and another felting project. Of course I always have socks on the needles and will hopefully be finished with a pair or two of those by the end of next week. I need to make several class samples too including this and the leaf lace shawl (sorry - couldn't get the link to work).

Hey be sure and check out Stephanie's page and look at her pink lady serendipity shawl - Very Gorgeous!

Stacie hasn't been posting in a few days, but her hubby just got home from and extended training trip so who can blame her *wink* but be sure and check out the WOW scarf she's been working on too. I'm going to make one as soon as the rest of the bags are felted.

I can't wait for project spectrum to start next week. The sweater I'm making is red (everything I own is red) so I'm looking forward to getting it finished.

We have been getting more and more new things in at the store and have rearranged lots of stuff too. The shop looks great and spring is going to be a blast! I am already excited about June market and all the new ideas it will bring - see I have to knit insanely fast to get it all done!

I'd better go finish the I-cord so I can felt the other two bags before knit night tonight.

I'll keep you posted!
AmyDe

Was It YOU?

Ok - I give up - who told? Which one of you told the flu police that I was feeling a tiny bit better? It must have been someone, because Saturday kicked it into high gear. If I thought I felt bad last week - whoa! Lookout weekend! Oh well - much better now - and I'm saying it right out loud - germs be damned!

I am feeling better and thanks to all of you who were on my side. I made a multidirectional scarf (Thank you Stephanie for the pattern) with the yarn my secret pal sent me (shown below) and will have a picture of it up soon.

The kids are crafting right now and I've got glue on my hands so typing is sticky!

I had a great Valentine's Day - you know aside from feeling kinda craptastic. I got a Whirley Pop - popcorn pan, etc. and an Ipod Nano - very cool! I got an email the night before that my favorite scrapbook shop is going out of business and EVERYTHING (fixtures & all) was for sale starting yesterday so I started the morning there - that was fun and we've got some neat new displays for the shop too.

I ended the evening at the 50% off sticker sale at Hobby Lobby - all in all - good day!

For those of you who might still be confused - I scrapbook too and I have an obsession with aquiring more "stuff" for scrapbooking - it's smaller and mostly cheaper than yarn (read: easier to hide). It's an insane obsession - like sock knitting - ahh I see all the little lightbulbs going off now *grin*

I hope everyone had a GREAT!!! Heart Day and I hope you ate lots of chocolate and other sugary goodness and had lots of fun. Stacie I hope your honey gets home quickly - better to celebrate late than never yes?

I'll keep you posted!

AmyDe

Don't Tell...

Ok - please don't tell my germs or the flu police, but I think (not certain mind you) that I might feel the tiniest - eansiest - littlest bit better. Let's not say that too loudly, but I think it's true. After a visit to the Dr. - which I NEVER do, but considering the asthma, - and 3 chest x-rays later (just to make sure there was no fluid in my lungs) it was my Daddy's homemade, hot & buttery chicken noodle soup that did the trick. Have I told you that I have the best Daddy in the whole wide world? I really do and you may argue that yours is better or just as good, but it just can't possibly be so (can you tell I'm more than a little spoiled?).

We're officially on the upswing of this flu bug and all it entails and we're almost out of the woods. Thank you for all your prayers and messages of support. I felt them all; and hey Steph - sorry about the shop closing Wed. - yeah it was me.

Here's to a better, brighter, healthier weekend!

I'll keep you posted!
AmyDe

Feel Better to Die!

I'm sick! I'm really sick! It's the flu. I would have to feel better to die. Casey is sick too and the kids are hagning in so far, but it's going to be a long week. Please keep me in your prayers that I don't get worse and that I don't kill my kids for whatever they are crashing around while I'm laying on the couch trying to ignore them.

For Sandy

For Sandy who loves skies!




Happy Bloggiversary! I have loved getting to know you through your blog and through this fun community!

This is a photo of the souther sky outside my house - that's a plane - we live in the direct path of Hartsfield International Airport (but far enough away so there is no noise). Everyone wish Sandy well!

Looky-Loos

Look what my secret pal sent me:


I love it! Hey I finally have pictures!!!! I'm a real grown up blogger now! Still working out the kins so bear with me. I'm also posting a pattern for a flower washcloth - KNIT FLAT - none of those pesky DPN's with cotton for me!

I'll add more pictures and such as I go!

I'll keep you posted!
AmyDe

Finally Home & questionairre update

We're finally home - we ventured to WDW (Walt Disney World) for 8 days and are finally home and working on laudry catch up. We had a great time and took lots of pictures. Finally got a cardreader for the camera (bought wrong one must exchange this evening) so pictures will be forthcoming.

Update to the SP7 questions - on the family question - maried, 2 kids, 3 dogs NO fish - our Lucy fish beta didn't make it through the trip - not sure why, but he's a fond memory now so...

Anyhoo... Got a great gift from my friend Dana S. - handgrown(?) hand dyed, handspun alpaca from New England. It's black and it's soft and fine and very yummy. It was a Christmas present that came with rules - I have to make something for myself with it. Now to figure out what.

Also got a giftee in the mail today from my SP - some fun red/pink/cream stripey wool yarn. It's single ply and soft and yummy - I have about 165 meter of it and now will have to think of a project. THANK YOU Secret Pal!

I'm sending a giftee off to my SP this week as well - shh! can't tell you what it is. I hope she likes it.

That's all for now!

I'll keep you posted!
AmyDe

SP7 Questionairre

1. Are you a yarn snob (do you prefer higher quality and/or natural fibers)? Do you avoid Red Heart and Lion Brand?

I like any yarn that is quality - this does not necessarily mean "yarn-shop" yarn - believe me in the shop where I work we have seen some doozies from the high-end companies - I like yarn that is soft, drapes well, and wears well.

2. Do you spin? Crochet?

I crochet and would LOVE to learn drop spinning, but as yet have not ventured down the spinning route.

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

Anything & Everything - from handmade cases to the top drawer of the iris cart.

4. How long have you been knitting? Would you consider your skill level to be beginner, intermediate or advanced?

I'm an intermediate plus skill level, but many of the projects I really like are very simple - they can be knit quickly and comfortably - without a lot of complication. I like attention to detail and excellent finishing, but I'm not into lots of complex cabling or fair-isle - too much work and the kids tend to outgrow the project before it's off the needles.

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

Yes - Amazon and knitpicks (I think - I'll update them both this week)

6. What's your favorite scent? (for candles, bath products etc.)

Vanilla, Cinnamon, CITRUS is always good!

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

I like candy (don't need to eat it, but...) I like sour candy - sweettarts, jolly ranchers (not peach), white chocolate, and Godiva strawberry cordials (can't eat the cherry ones - allergies)

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

I love to sew and I craft things with my kids all the time.

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

MP3 yes - Harry Connick, JR (but I have everything recorded already), Peter Cincati, Ray Charles, Broadway Musicals, Buddy Greene (Christian artist), Allison Krause, Dianna Krall, They Might Be Giants (again I have the whole collection) - Wow that's a strange conglomeration huh?

10. What's your favorite color? Or--do you have a color family/season/palette you prefer? Any colors you just can't stand?

RED!!!! I also love pink, purple, Green - not crazy about blue, can't wear earthy tones, I really love most colors.

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

Married, 2 Kids Girl 5 Boy 3, 3 Dogs, Fish

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

None of the above, but I love to make them all for the family and friends

13. What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with?

That's too hard a question! I like wool bunches and any soft wool is always a good choice - though living in the south where it is currently 69 degrees on January 9 - wool can be tricky. I love sock yarns - lately Lorna's Laces - though all yarn is good yarn!

14. What fibers do you absolutely *not* like?

I really do like them all - not crazy about yarns that look like you killed a muppet to make your sweater, though even those have their place - but other than that...

15. What is/are your current knitting obsession/s?

Socks are always an obsession - weird to me though - it must be the yarn. I also LOVE to knit for my kids so anything fun and preferably washable (even if just by hand) is a good choice

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

Sweaters for my kids, socks, and baby things

17. What are you knitting right now?

2 pair of socks, a baby sweater, 2 scarves (for shop), and crocheting an afghan

18. Do you like to receive handmade gifts?

YES!

19. Do you prefer straight or circular needles?

Either

20. Bamboo, aluminum, plastic?

Metal or hardwood - I use turbos and old metal needles mostly (for speed)

21. Do you own a yarn winder and/or swift?

No, but have access to both at the shop.

22. How did you learn to knit?

From a book and with a little help from a friend.

23. How old is your oldest UFO?

6 months? It will stay UFO too - purse kit from H***

24. What is your favorite animated character or a favorite animal/bird?

Keroppi (now discontinued) from the Hello Kitty line is a favorite, Maisy Mouse and Miffy the bunny are alo favorites (gee I have kids - who knew?) LOVE Mickey Mouse, and Figment. Favorite animals are doggies and favorite birds - can't choose - they are all so wonderful - Cardinals, Blue birds, Robins, penguins, Hummingbirds, parrots - any bird is wonderful

25. What is your favorite holiday?

I guess Valentine's Day, but NOT for romantic reasons. I really hate the pressure and how sickly sweet things can often get, but I love red and I love pink and I love hearts and since the first day of Spring is not technically a holiday - I suppose Valentine's Day tops the list.

26. Is there anything that you collect?

Not specifically - I like lots of things, but don't really focus on any one item or theme.

27. What knitting magazine subscriptions do you have?

Interweave is the only one I have right now.

28. Any books, yarns, needles or patterns out there you are dying to get your hands on?

LOVE Koigu - have none right now, Books are like heaven, and nice sock yarn is always a hit!!! (Oh and on a non-knitting note - I love Japanese craft books like Zakka)

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

I think I'd better practice what I know for now.

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

I wear a size 8 wide shoe - I'll update with more accurate measurements soon

31. When is your birthday? (mm/dd)

May 4

Outlook for 2006

I've been going through books and magazines and making lists (for my cute little S & B design journal) of the projects I really like. I've thus concretely determined what I already knew to be true - too many projects, too little time. That's ok - at least there is a plethora of inspiration to draw upon.

I think this year's gift knitting begins now. I'll knit things (from the stash of course) and put them in the Gift drawer - then come holidays I'll be ready right? OK - pick yourself up off the floor from laughing so hard and share in my delusion for a bit - let's call it willful suspension of disbelief. I mean come on - we'va all watched an episode of Star Trek and enjoyed it for the hour - let me enjoy this for a moment anyway. It's good to dream big right?

Oh well - all this is just a diversion from the cleaning, washing, etc. I should be doing. Hey it's working for me so far!

I've completed 2 scarves (almost 3) - they are for the shop - I don't normally make scarves for any other reason - a pair of fingerless mitts, and a cute child's vest that had been in the frog pond for a WHILE (finally ripped it and started over - it only took two days to finish the whole thing) and today is only the 6th. Hey, at least I'm having fun in my delusion right!

I'll keep you posted!
AmyDe

Year In Review

Borrowed idea from here :
Bags: 6
Hats: 8
Sweaters: 5
Socks: 3 pair
Scarves: 20+ (I lose count at the shop)
Fingerless Mitts: 5
Ponchos/Shawls/Capelets: 4
Flower Washcloths: 4
Booties: 3 pair
Items for myself: 0 (I'll work on that)

It seems like I've done more than that and I'm sure that I have - I'll update the list later after I've been back in the shop and can look around at everything we've made.

I'll keep you posted!
AmyDe

Well Christmas came and Christmas went and it was all pretty much a blur from here. We had a nice Christmas, but is always seems too busy and too rushed and just in general too much. We were all sick with head colds and that makes everything harder. I'm going to make sure that this year I have all of my gifts made or bought as I go through the year, because otherwise I'm not going to make it through another season.

Now for the new year: I'm not a resolutions kind of girl, but I do like lists (ok I LOVE them) and I do set goals. I'm tired of all the regular goals that are on everyone's list - you know - clean house, more time doing whatever, lose weight - not that I don't need all those on my list too, but some things go without saying. This year my list will read a little like this:

Appreciate even when annoyed
Love especially when challenged
Be Patient in the face of trial
Learn from everyone especially those who are most different from me
Be the kind of friend that I want to have
Leave things better than I found them

I'll keep you posted!
AmyDe

IT IS FINISHED!

No - not the Christmas knitting, but the sweater that shall not end. Anna's Leaf Peeper sweater is complete. I didn't do the leaves - instead I crocheted some flowers and a butterfly and attached them to the pockets instead. It turned out really cute if I do say so myself. I promise pictures after Christmas. Right now I have to finishe boxing up my craftroom and moving downstairs so Anna can have her room for Christmas - so gotta run...

I'll keep you posted!
AmyDe

We won't speak of it...

Christmas knitting that is - it's come to this - if you get a handknitted gift from me this year - you're damned lucky! I've had the flu AND in-laws this weekend & week so stop your griping and say "Thank you" for that giftcard - right!

It's really not quite THAT bad, but pretty darned close.

Well I got this gift for a single girlfriend of mine from this site (at the time you could buy hunky bachelor versions) and thought - won't this be funny - everything important is covered by a cute little star sticker and we'll all get a laugh right? Well honey let me tell you - this guy needs a bigger star sticker. It's truly embarassing how much hangs out from behind the not-so-little star sticker. Oh - I'll give it to her anyway, but now it will arrive with an explanation and uproarious laughter rather than just a little giggle amongst girlfriends.

I'm off to continue knitting - I do have just a couple of things left that MUST be finished, but I'm not going to kill myself on everything else.

My Honey has promised to set up my camera software on this system and help me post pictures, etc. so hopefully I can be and all grown up blog with pictures and everything for Christmas (or shortly thereafter).

I'll keep you posted!
AmyDe

1 more down!

I'd like to forget how many to go, but alas - I must make a list so... here goes:

Crochet afghan - thought I had another week (maybe two) turns out they are visiting THIS Saturday

Sweater for Toby (top down raglan on size 17 needles) - no big deal

Leaf Sweater finished for Anna and one more seamed up for her (all told about a days work)

Hats & Mittens for the kids (maybe - I might get away with putting that one off until after Christmas)

House Socks for my Mom (easy chunky yarn on size 11 needles)

TWO - "Wrap & Roll" Jackets - I get to take the easy way out on these and make them on the knitting machine - SUPER easy!

I'm sure I've left numerous things out and I've already cut the handknit gifts list WAAAY down - so I think I might just make it - that is if I can get MOST of it done before this Sunday as next week I really MUST clean the house.

I'll keep you posted!

AmyDe

I'm not behind...

I figure it this way - if I cop out and send everyone giftcards or movie tickets this year - then I'm not really behind on my Christmas knitting - I'm ahead for 2006. I tell you - with 10 days left it's looking better and better. The only problem is all those gift cards require cold hard cash!

I have finished 2 hats and a pair of fingerless mitts this week (okay - it was yesterday) and I'm a buttonband and pockets away from Anna's sweater (the sweater that will not end) being finished. Surely I've knit more than that in nearly 2 weeks? Maybe there is something I'm forgetting? Maybe it will come to me?

I'd better keep at it.

I'll keep you posted!
AmyDe

Finishing...

It seems lately that I knit and I knit and I never finish anything. I don't quite understand it. Has anyone else experienced what I am now calling "The Event Horizon of Knitting?"

It's as though the closer I get to the end of a project the longer it takes to actually get there - time (knitting time that is) moves exponentially slower for an, as yet, undetermined reason. I haven't even cast on new things that are getting in the way or anything. It's really weird!

Anna's sweater (which should have been finished ages ago) will get shoulder seams and at least one sleeve picked up tonight. I hope I can knock it out by the end of the weekend (shouldn't be a problem since the seed stitch insanity is finished).

I DID rescue my brother's sock from time out and carefully unknitted several rows thereby removing the pre-mature toe decreases and it's moving along as well.

I am finishing up a previously pushed aside pair of fingerless mitts and those should be finished this week as well. I can't wait to have some of these things off the needles not only because I will be that much closer to finished Christmas Knitting, but also because I can start knitting mittens and hats for my babies who want warm wooly things that "Mommy made." Sometimes all the craziness makes sense - if only for a fleeting moment before they start bonking each other on the head because on one person can play the drum at a time (whose birdbrained idea was it to buy children a drum anyway...).

I'll keep you posted!
AmyDe

I am truly Blessed!

I am thankful for: (the short list)

My parents, although life's circumstances have not brought us the health and happiness we see in our picture of the future, I am blessed with parents who love and and whom I love. I still learn from my Mom and Daddy everyday - may I be as loving with my children as my parents always are with me.

My husband, who will get up at 5 a.m to take the doggy out (for the third time that night) just so I can sleep - may I always be as thoughtful and considerate of him.

My children, who are more precious to me than words can express - God please make me worthy of Your gift.

My Brother, who is the most loving person I've ever known - may I return that love to him in a special and meaningful way.

My Doggies (& the fishy too), they are often naughty and they wet on the floor sometimes, but they are warm and always there to love on when needed most - May I be there for them when they need me ( especially during thunderstorms).

My house, it's warm and dry and messy and in need of repairs, but it's safe and it's mine - may I always make our house a home.

My Life, It is busy and full of joy, pain, laughter, tears, excitement, calm, accomplishments, failures, expectation, disappointment, learning, lessons, fear, and boldness! I thank God that my life is not how I pictured it so many years ago - as always - HIS picture is better than my best dream and I am Truly BLESSED!

Happy Thanksgiving to you all - Love to you!
AmyDe

STOP YELLING!

Oh wait - not you! I mean my kids. Boy have they been at it for the last two days. It must be something in the weather change or maybe the water or maybe I'm just edgy, but phew it's been wild around here. All of this as I try to gear up for Thanksgiving and my mom's birthday and the church events, etc.

On the knitting front:
I'm well entrenched in Anna's sweater and let me just say that I am seriously tired of seed stitch right now. Even I, the "I hate to purl!" girl am longing for the blissful areas of yellow stocking stitch. At knit night last night Stephanie reminded me that we talked about it originally and decided that it would be just as precious in all stst - needless to say the part of my brain responsible for storing that tidbit is presently awaiting it's punishment.

I've designed several projects for the yarn rescued from the frog pond earlier this week and my list grows thus longer - at least I don't have to buy the yarn for these.

As mentioned in earlier posts we're moving some rooms around including the craft room and I've been sorting yarn, etc. I have a BUNCH of yarn. Who doesn't right? But really folks - I have way more than I ever remember buying and I don't forget those sorts of things. Most of what I had forgotten was ebay purchases - maybe something about not actually feeling the yarn AS I bought it...?? Who knows - the fact remains that I've got some serious knitting to do before I go buying any more (yeah we'll see how long that lasts).

I'm reading Vintage Socks right now and it's really cutting into my Christmas knitting deadline so I'd better have Casey take it away for a while so I'm not tempted to drop everything and knit the Gentleman's socks for my brother.

Hey be sure and keep Stacie on your mind and in your prayers as she had a big day today!

I'll keep you posted!
AmyDe

The Frog Pond

This weekend I swam in the frog pond. I frogged a sock, a child's sweater, the front of two more children's sweaters, a pink idea that turned out to be a monstrousity, and the beginnings of a felted purse for a class that never happened. SIGH!

Now I feel so much better - I have yarn and ideas instead of failures and mishaps mocking me (thanks Steph) from the frog pond. There is such weight lifted off my shoulders and I feel like I can accomplish things again - it's very exciting.

I also finished five more Christmas gifts this weekend (don't ask how many I have left to make).

I bought Red Heart for a crocheted afghan (another giftlift item) and will begin work on that tomorrow night during CSI, etc... Hey I know - "Red Heart??? Don't you work at the best yarn shop in town?" Yes, but it's cheap and it lasts forever and that's the kind of yarn I need for these giftees so...

I've got many more items on my gift list so... On with the knitting!

I'll keep you posted!
AmyDe

Sometimes The Tuths Caomes in Strange Packages

Not Usually a big fan of the little quips, but this one was fun - and if you know me well....

Your Birthdate: May 4

You have an extraordinary character - moral, responsible, and disciplined. Your sincerely and honesty shine through in almost every situation. Driven and focused, you rarely let your emotions get the better of you. You're level headed and rational. People count on your to look at things objectively. Your strength: Your unwavering loyalty and ethics Your weakness: Your rock solid stubbornness Your power color: Navy blue Your power symbol: Shield Your power month: April

What Does Your Birth Date Mean?

Latest Meme

I succomb...

Favorite Yarn:
That's tough - especially working in a yarn shop - I seem to have a new favorite everyday. On the list are definitely Zara Plus (the entire Zara line), Tartelette, New Tweed, Cotton Classic, and Sockotta (oh who am I kidding - ANY good sock yarn)

Favorite Needles:
Addi Turbos - no question! (I like cheapy metal needles too - Bamboo is too slow) although my Handturned Rosewood crochet hook - giant afghan sized - is lovely too.

Worst Project Ever Knit:
I'm note sure - I can think of a bunch of things, but I have ripped most of them out and started over - Oh wait! The purple Bagsmith kit from He** That stuff is so hard to knit and it's in what I fear to be eternal time out - even if I rip it out the materials will NOT be reused for knitting.

Favorite Pattern:
I like plain old socks patterns - any of them - I think that the magic formula of sock knitting is incredible and always fun. It's predictable, rythmic, and always just right.

Most Valuable Knitting Technique:
More of a philosophy - Boldness. Working at the shop we get many timid customers with problem projects and I have learned that the boldness to yank the needles out and rip back with abandon is rare.

Best Book or Magazine:
Traitor I may be, but my very favorite book is The Crochet Stitch Bible (cat out of bag - I crochet too!)
Interweave and FCEK are always fun

Favorite KAL:
I've only done Soctoberfest so far and it was fun. Warm Hands is shaping up nicely too.

Favorite Blogs:
Sandy, Stephanie, Stacie, Lolly, and more

Favorite Designer:
I like Debbie Bliss & Debbie Ware for the Kids and I Love Joan McGowan-Michael - so very femenine

Knit Item I wear the most:
I've always given everything away - I have some yarn in the stash for a Chris Bylsma sweater for myself though

That was fun!

Thanks for Listening!

I'll keep you posted!
AmyDe

Shame on Me....

I'm a bad blogger lately - sorry! I've been knitting, but I never seem to finish anything so I've been feeling rather dispondant about blogging. I'm STILL working on Toby's sock #2 (had to rip a bunch out and restart from heel turn) and until I find more yarn My brother's socks are stalled.

I have been cleaning things out lately though. We're moving the craftroom to the playroom and setting the kids up in individual bedrooms. Translation: LOTS of work! I've got more yarn than I care to discuss (esp with my honey) and I'd better start making it into finished projects ASAP or I'll have to stop shopping - and who wants to do that.

Anna's sweater is coming along nicely. The back is almost finished and once I get back in the groove it will work up quickly (if I can endure all the seed stitch along the top). I've got a bunch of things that need to be frogged and reworked and it's bogging me down. I've also got some seaming to do that's lurking in the wings. I know I should just buckle down and do it all one step at a time, but instead I just keep crocheting washcloths for the children and for Christmas gifts.

I think if I can get things in better order here (everything is topsy turvy with the remodel) then I can crank out several Christmas gifts in a hurry and not feel so overwhelmed.

On other notes Casey LOVES his job at The Weather Channel and he is so happy - which makes me happy too!

I'm going to post a list of Christmas gifts that I need to make and then cross them off as I complete them. Hopefully being accountable to you guys will help motivate me and I won't experience the Christmas Crunch we all know so well.

Anyway - thanks for forgiving my slack blogging ways!

I'll keep you posted!
AmyDe

Finished!

I finished Toby's socks (almost - one toe left to do) and I felted the two bags for the shop - they are still wet. I need to buy size 1.5 needles for some wool socks for my brother's Christmas presents. The sockotta sock #1 is finished and #2 will be cast on this week.

I'm really trying to get Christmas gifts out of the way - I've got a couple of afghans to crochet, but they are fast and easy to do while watching TV so I'll probably start one of those this week to.

You know - it's funny how each week starts out with such possibility for most to end up swo dreadfully far from what we planned. I suppose that's the way of it. One of these weeks I'm going to plan my week and execute everything on the plan - when that happens I suppose my life will have grown very dull - which might be a welcome change!

Off to make the list for today and wrap up lose ends (no pun intended) on a few knitting projects so I can get going on the new ones!

I'll keep you posted!
AmyDe

Mittens, socks, and Shawls, oh My!

I've joined another KAL - for mittens this time. Sandy is hosting this one and I'm looking forward to it. I'm going to make mittens for the kids out of leftover Zara Plus wool that I have in my stash. Hey it counts for stashbusting too - Yippee!!

I also joined Sandy's Charlotte's web KAL. Everyone seemed to have som much fun making that last year I thought I'd join in - it's a good way to go ahead and get my MIL Christmas gift out of the way for next year - plus it's an excuse to drive to Chatanooga to visit my friends at Genuine Purl b/c we don't carry Koigu and I'm not too likely to shop at any of the other 10 or so shops in the area. - Besides I've been looking for an excuse to get up there.

Little Girl Munchkin has an ear infection. It came on fast and hard yesterday afternoon so she'll be off to the doctor ASAP. Toby's socks should be finished on time - I made one completely and it's too small so I started a larger pair and they are going very quickly - easy to knit for tiny feet.

I've been promising patterns I know I know - they will be here this weekend along with photos (I hope) and another fun surprise.

I missed knit Night b/c of little munchkin, but it's fine I'll catch up with everyone next week.

I'll keep you posted!

AmyDe

More More More!

I've been making progress - Yippee! Toby's birthday socks are underway and will be completed on time (good thing he has little feet) Michael's socks are down to the toe on one and almost ready to cast on #2 - I AM going to need more yarn - like 20 yards (aggravating). I have two bags to felt today or tomorrow and hopefully one more by the end of the week.

I'm going to try and use up stash yarn as much as possible. I know I know we've all said that before right? Well I have enough yarn to make several sweaters for the children that will fit thiss year and next, but not after that so... I'm getting to work on it. I still have about 10 Christmas gifts to knit and am working those into the list (good thing most a quick & simple) There are only 69 more knitting days until Christmas!

I love this time of year - it's getting cool and is crisp in the morning and evening, but still nice during the day - actually it's been a little too hot during the days lately near 80. Sometimes I think fall will NEVER get here.

Well I'm off to work on those socks and find some more yarn - I need something to show for socktoberfest right?

I'll keep you posted!
AmyDe

Armed and Dangerous

Well maybe not too dangerous, but armed with the snazzy Sock Wizard software and a "Sock It To Me" cheater's card I am ready to finish Michael's socks. I need to do a little more math and plug some numbers into my new software to calculate if I'll need another ball of yarn, but the liklihood that I will need more is high.

My arm aches from all of the knitting I've been doind since Sunday. In defense from all of the new yarn we're receiving at the shop I'm trying to make samples as quickly as possible (also to impress my employers by making lots of neat-o things very quickly). My wrist hurt so badly when I woke up yesterday morning that I feared knitting impossible for the day - alas a little time and a few painkillers (OTC only I promise) later I was back in business.

So far this week I've made Chris Bylsma's NaStasha Bag (not yet felted), Designs by Shelley's Pink Lady Bag (not yet felted), a Magic hat, My brother's sock #1 completed, and another felted project cast on. Hopefully I'll finish the felted bag, and a little wristlet purse before Saturday so I can spend some quality time with my new sock books & software and get some more things (personal - not shop) cast on and in progress. After all There are only 73 more knitting days until Christmas!

I'll keep you posted!

AmyDe

I have a confession to make...

My brother's birthday socks (which are now for Christmas) have been stalled and on the back burner. I was so afraid that they were too small. I finally picked them back up and got them to a point where Casey can try them on and he says they fit fine - so... Off I go again on the socks. I am going to need more yarn though so I'll have to find that, but just knowing that all the effort isn't a waste and that the socks will fit when finished has renewed my knitting spirit and I'm on my way to finished with sock #1.

I finished the fingerless mitts yesterday and they are very cute. I'll probably make one more pair for my SIL and that's one more name marked off the Christmas list. Wow - at this rate I should be finished with Christmas 2005 gifts in about March of 2006.

The shop looks so nice and we are STILL getting in new yarns everyday. Nashua yarns came in and are GORGEOUS!!! I can't wait to make a felted bag with LOTS of novelty yarns and the new striping wools.

After Christmas I am going to make myself a sweater. Yes indeed a sweater for me. I got the yarn today (it's been on BO FOREVER!!!) Cascade Sierra in lime color #10. I am going to make Chris Bylsma's MidSummer's Aran Sweater and make it a little longer. I LOVE this pattern and can't wait to work on it, but I must get Christmas out of the way before I begin.

Hopefully the socks for Bro (pending yarn hunt) will be finished by next weekend and I cna move on to some new socks. These have all but broken my will to knit socks. Next I'm going to learn to knit socks on 2 circs so I can teach it at the shop. I LOVE my dpns, but people want the 2-circs method so I'll give it a go. Which is your favorite?

Time to knit while the house is quiet for a while.

I'll keep you posted!
AmyDe

Wow what a week!

It's been an interesting week around here. Last Thursday Anna (5) nearly knocked her two front teeth out - so after an emergency trip to the dentist - where he told us we can expect Anna's teeth to turn dark and potentially fall out - Mommy waited until the kids were napping and had a mini meltdown. Better now though.

On the knitting front: The wristers for my SIL are almost finished (after about 3 false starts) My brother's socks are still stalled - I have fear that they are not going to fit. I made a store sample of wristers from another yarn and pattern - much quicker and easier, but not quite as nice than the one's I'm doing now. We've stocked all of the yarn that was in the store last week - it looks FABULOUS! Then yesterday we received 4 more huge boxes - Nashua, Tahki, and some gift items from one of our accessory vendors. Now we have to find a place to put it.

I started knitting (for store) some "house socks" out of Artful Yarns' Circus those are quick and should be finished before the weekend.

We've been working on the house and getting the kid's rooms sorted out while moving the craftroom/classroom to the finished garage - it's been tiresome and busy. But we're getting things finished one by one - now if I could just get someone to haul off the tree lying in my backyard...

I promist that this weekend I'll figure out how to post pictures, etc. to this crazy page and get some fun things going. I also have a pattern or two to upload, Casey will help me figure all this out - he's the "Computer Guy."

I can't wait for knit Night tonight - lots of fun!

I'll keep you posted!
AmyDe