tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-63726779398458121722024-03-13T19:17:56.152-07:00Desert HomemakerBrenda M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03973687853207379222noreply@blogger.comBlogger201125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6372677939845812172.post-67722034382646377702012-08-03T05:30:00.000-07:002012-08-03T08:51:06.964-07:00Bouclé AfghanSometimes when walking through my local <a href="http://www.joann.com/">Jo-Ann</a>, I admit I get easily distracted. <br />
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Or maybe all the time.<br />
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Well, one day when I was there taking advantage of a pattern sale, I saw some beautiful red yarn. <br />
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Then I looked closer. It was <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boucl%C3%A9">bouclé</a> -- not my favorite. It was also acrylic*-- again, not my favorite. But the color was so pretty, and the yarn so soft! And on sale, too! Plus I had a coupon.<br />
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With that, I was hooked. I purchased 4 balls of <a href="http://www.joann.com/jo-ann-sensations-rainbow-boucle-yarn/prd33456/">Jo-Ann Sensations Rainbow Bouclé</a> yarn for $20.<br />
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I decided the best thing to do was to make an afghan. I cast-on 200 stitches, and worked in garter stitch until I had gone through 2 balls of yarn, binding off just before I ran out.<br />
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This made a large and soft afghan which I can wrap myself up in, or snuggle under with someone I love. To get an idea of scale, the bed that the blanket is spread out on is king size.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xZJMUILMJfk/UBmt5mBPiuI/AAAAAAAABOo/lhKQ7STlalk/s1600/IMG_1112.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xZJMUILMJfk/UBmt5mBPiuI/AAAAAAAABOo/lhKQ7STlalk/s320/IMG_1112.JPG" width="310" /></a></div>
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The only trick now will be to keep the pups from stealing it like they have the others.<br />
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Project Details:<br />
Pattern: None, but the formula is here.<br />
Designer: Well, designer is a bit pretentious, but I made up the formula.<br />
Yarn: <a href="http://www.joann.com/jo-ann-sensations-rainbow-boucle-yarn/prd33456/">Jo-Ann Sensations Rainbow Bouclé</a> (88% acrylic/12% nylon) in the red colorway.<br />
Needles: US 10 (6 mm) interchangeable needles with a 60" cable. <br />
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*NOTE: While acrylic is not my favorite fiber choice, I don't hate it. I believe quite firmly that there is a place for every type of fiber. Indeed, for color selection and saturation, easy care, and affordability, acrylic is fantastic.<br />
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<br />Brenda M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03973687853207379222noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6372677939845812172.post-707953040024902402012-08-01T11:25:00.001-07:002012-08-01T11:25:58.220-07:00Colorblock TowelsThe good people at <a href="http://www.knitpicks.com/knitting.cfm">Knit Picks</a> gave me the opportunity to make another project for them -- <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/AGoodYarn/colorblock-tea-towel-set">a set of tea towels</a>.<br />
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The pattern is well written, easy to follow, and error free.<br />
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CotLin is a beautiful yarn, and the colors they selected are lovely.<br />
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The provisional cast-on, and three-needle bind off mean that there's no seaming.<br />
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These are very quick to knit, and would make a good, easy care gift.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-m9nM-Jf9xTs/UBl0QvQThgI/AAAAAAAABOM/WMWJpwVeOSg/s1600/IMG_0768.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="217" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-m9nM-Jf9xTs/UBl0QvQThgI/AAAAAAAABOM/WMWJpwVeOSg/s320/IMG_0768.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Project Details:<br />
Pattern: <a href="http://www.knitpicks.com/cfpatterns/pattern_display.cfm?ID=10678220">Colorblock Tea Towel Set</a><br />
Designer: <a href="http://www.knitpicks.com/cfPatterns/IDP/IDP_Pattern_List.cfm?id=K00288">Laura Wick</a><br />
Yarn: <a href="http://www.knitpicks.com/cfyarns/yarn_display.cfm?ID=5420162">Knit Picks CotLin DK</a> (70% Tanguis cotton/30% linen) in Chartreuse, Sprout, Harbor, and Loden.<br />
Needles: US 6 (4mm) and US 7 (4.5 mm)<br />
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You can also find these towels pictured in the <a href="http://www.knitpicks.com/Catalogs/online_catalog.cfm?intmedid=OCA+MC12&catch=MY12">May 2012 Knit Picks Catalog</a>, and on the <a href="http://www.knitpicks.com/cfpatterns/pattern_display.cfm?ID=10678220">Knit Picks website</a>.Brenda M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03973687853207379222noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6372677939845812172.post-85207939633204087012012-07-26T05:00:00.000-07:002012-07-26T05:00:19.523-07:00A (Very) Hungry CaterpillarOne of my knitterly friends recently had a son. To share in the celebration and welcome the little guy, and because I am a knitter, I just had to make something.<br />
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I do have a few guidelines that I like to follow when making this type of project.<br />
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<li>It cannot be something I've made before.</li>
<li>It has to be designed or customized just for them.</li>
<li>It has to be something that will suit the child and the family.</li>
<li>It MUST be machine washable. </li>
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I spent a good deal of time wondering what to make.<br />
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To be honest, I was really at a loss. <br />
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I did the only sensible thing I could - I did a knitted toy search on Ravelry, hoping and praying for inspiration to strike.<br />
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While scrolling through the search results, I came upon this project and pattern:<br />
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<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/creepy-crawly-caterpillar">Creepy Crawly Caterpillar</a> by <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/designers/latina-steele">LaTina Steele</a></div>
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It brought mind one of my favorite picture books, <a href="http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/very-hungry-caterpillar-eric-carle/1100472822?ean=9780399208539&format=hardcover"><u>The Very Hungry Caterpillar</u></a> by <a href="http://www.eric-carle.com/">Eric Carle</a>. My lightening strike moment had arrived!</div>
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I used the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/creepy-crawly-caterpillar">Creepy Crawly Caterpillar</a> pattern, but changed the colors to match the character in the book -- green for the body and feet, red for the head, purple for the antennae. </div>
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I added three body segments which meant working rows 23-39 a total of four times, got everything stuffed as I went, and sewed all the pieces together. </div>
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I then got some felt and cut it (free form) to match the face in the book, securely sewing each piece.</div>
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The only thing that remained was to purchase a copy of the book to include with the gift.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tyo59qyzXHg/UBBEUrKf9CI/AAAAAAAABMU/fBQuHd40_hI/s1600/IMG_1093.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="223" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tyo59qyzXHg/UBBEUrKf9CI/AAAAAAAABMU/fBQuHd40_hI/s320/IMG_1093.JPG" width="320" /> </a></div>
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I was so pleased and excited with the way this turned out. Thankfully, this was a book that they didn't yet have, and both Momma and Baby seem happy with it. I hope it will bring enjoyment for years to come. </div>
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Project Details:</div>
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Pattern: <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/creepy-crawly-caterpillar">Creepy Crawly Caterpillar</a></div>
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Designer: <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/designers/latina-steele">LaTina Steele </a></div>
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Yarn: <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/yarns/library/pisgah-yarn--dyeing-co-inc-peaches--creme-solids">Peaches & Cream</a> (100% cotton) in Emerald (green), Red, and Deep Purple</div>
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Needles: US 3 (3.25 mm)</div>
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Other: Stuffed with polyester fiberfill, face cutouts from polyester felt</div>
<br />Brenda M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03973687853207379222noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6372677939845812172.post-70293735231030968072012-07-25T11:59:00.003-07:002012-07-25T12:00:23.671-07:00Summer Round-Up<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<img alt="Cactus Wren" src="http://c69282.r82.cf3.rackcdn.com/CACTUS_WREN.JPG" title="Cactus Wren" /></div>
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Summer is quickly coming to a close, and I find myself wondering where all the time has gone.<br />
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Golf has, I suppose, taken up a lion's share of it. What with playing rounds almost weekly with my family, and spectating at Jay's tournaments, I have spent many hours in the beautiful sunshine. I would also like to publicly give a huge CONGRATULATIONS! to Jay for winning his division in the <a href="http://southwest.pga.com/index.cfm?menu=1627">Southwest PGA Antigua Jr. Tour</a>. He did it through good play and, more importantly, with good sportsmanship, and I couldn't be happier for him.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eXNSsryYAeY/Tm_Db5ogYQI/AAAAAAAAAuQ/uv9bZcMdI9s/s1600/IMG_0603.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eXNSsryYAeY/Tm_Db5ogYQI/AAAAAAAAAuQ/uv9bZcMdI9s/s320/IMG_0603.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I went through my stash, cleaning and organizing it for ease of use. It was like a delightful treasure hunt, reminding me of the fantastic things I've got squirreled away. It also served as a reminder that I really need to "shop" there first when starting a new project. I fear if I don't start doing that, I will reach <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/quotes/211946-sable--a-common-knitting-acronym-that-stands-for-stash-acquisition">S.A.B.L.E.</a> in very short order. <br />
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There has been much knitting, spinning, cross-stitching, and even a touch of sewing. Sadly, this doesn't mean that I've finished much, and several of my finished items I can't yet talk about, but, at least there has been progress. I'm particularly excited about one of the projects that I finished, and I will be sharing those details in the next post.<br />
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We have enjoyed visits from some of our family, reminding me of how blessed I am to be related to such wonderful people. Whether we are related by blood, marriage, or heart, God has been very good to me.Brenda M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03973687853207379222noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6372677939845812172.post-21504155498836385702012-04-16T14:50:00.000-07:002012-04-16T14:50:16.369-07:00A New ProjectI've been working on a new project, and have struggled with getting gauge.<br />
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Guess who has turned into a loose knitter when I wasn't looking?<br />
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Here's the one and only sneak peek I'll be giving until the pattern is released.<br />
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I hope you are enjoying your projects, and that they're being a little kinder to you than mine was to me.Brenda M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03973687853207379222noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6372677939845812172.post-35971532757788866332012-04-11T11:58:00.000-07:002012-04-11T11:58:59.300-07:00When Life AttacksFriday, DH was driving to work and hit some tread that had fallen off a semi tire and was lying in the middle of the road. It was either hit it, or one of the cars around him. I think he made the correct choice. The car sustained some damage, though, so we had to file a claim with our insurance. And getting everything set up and scheduled was how that day was spent.<br />
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Saturday was shaping up to be a better day. I went to visit my sister, and my truck's transmission decided to stop working properly. We ended up cutting our outing short, and I was able to make it back home. Barely. It appeared to give up the ghost when I pulled in my driveway.<br />
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Sunday, Jay spent the day with Miss L's family, and while DH and I were able to spend some time together, I was mostly running errands. I had to do it while I still had a vehicle available. Nice way to spend Easter, no?<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Monday I spent the day getting the cars to the garage, picking up a rental, and trying to activate DH's new iPhone. (Turns out the Droid phone he'd gotten was a dud -- after 5 phone calls to customer service we decided to send it back and get a new phone.) Unfortunately, our service provider was having issues that prevented activation initially, but it took them 2 hours and 3 customer service representatives to communicate that to me. At least it's finally working. <br />
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Now, the truck isn't acting up, so the mechanics can't find and fix the problem. Typical.<br />
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At least my garden is doing well. Strawberries are ripening,<br />
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cabbage is forming a lovely head,<br />
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and the rhubarb is thriving.<br />
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The trees are all doing well too.<br />
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I finished a secret project, started another, and am able to work on the others that are in progress. There's the Triangle Summer Shawl that I'm knitting out of handspun linen/silk,<br />
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the Bouclé afghan that I'm knitting out of Joann Sensations,<br />
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the socks I'm designing and knitting out of Knitting Fever Indulgence,<br />
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and the cashmere top I'm spinning.<br />
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And, of course, I get to see an abundance of this adorableness.<br />
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I guess things are looking up.Brenda M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03973687853207379222noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6372677939845812172.post-34001179152729704252012-04-05T16:08:00.000-07:002012-04-05T16:08:54.947-07:00Something NewIt's time to upgrade my cell phone, so look what I got today:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PCBtIirql4E/T34g2hx7TuI/AAAAAAAABJs/gEzyLT0PNEI/s1600/IMAG0054.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="166" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PCBtIirql4E/T34g2hx7TuI/AAAAAAAABJs/gEzyLT0PNEI/s320/IMAG0054.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Yep, it's an iPhone 4S.<br />
<br />
I'm so EXCITED! I've been wanting one since they came out, but didn't have AT&T. I'm so glad they're available on other networks now. And that it was time for an upgrade. :-D<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QFJhruQysMg/T34g4HoXznI/AAAAAAAABJ8/mEendEfp-rA/s1600/IMAG0056.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="284" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QFJhruQysMg/T34g4HoXznI/AAAAAAAABJ8/mEendEfp-rA/s320/IMAG0056.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>So sleek. Yes, I did remove the piece of plastic, but not before taking the picture. I was THAT excited.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HLIi76Poqig/T34g3ToHpEI/AAAAAAAABJ0/MMaPcIdspbk/s1600/IMAG0055.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HLIi76Poqig/T34g3ToHpEI/AAAAAAAABJ0/MMaPcIdspbk/s320/IMAG0055.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>Even the back is beautiful.<br />
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(Happy Sigh)<br />
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I believe I'll be playing on this for the rest of the day.Brenda M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03973687853207379222noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6372677939845812172.post-87410416492804560552012-04-04T23:17:00.000-07:002012-04-05T06:49:47.016-07:00Playing GamesI've been playing a lot of games lately. Jay and his girlfriend, Miss L, both enjoy them, and when she comes over, we usually end up sitting down together to play. Some of the games we've been playing include:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hkyjqSRmDSk/T32gUNuxuOI/AAAAAAAABJE/B_9okcGo0eo/s1600/monopoly.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hkyjqSRmDSk/T32gUNuxuOI/AAAAAAAABJE/B_9okcGo0eo/s1600/monopoly.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Monopoly-1126-The-Classic-Edition/dp/B002JSM3KQ/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1333633049&sr=8-2"><b>Monopoly</b></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-F5ObkBoLqPY/T32gvZVzI5I/AAAAAAAABJM/0CTbewtSeuk/s1600/Life.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-F5ObkBoLqPY/T32gvZVzI5I/AAAAAAAABJM/0CTbewtSeuk/s1600/Life.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Hasbro-4000-Game-of-Life/dp/B00000IWD7/ref=sr_1_1?s=toys-and-games&ie=UTF8&qid=1333633163&sr=1-1">Life</a></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gcR2HQajnQY/T32hHCOy5_I/AAAAAAAABJU/LVIhp43pRiw/s1600/battleofthesexes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gcR2HQajnQY/T32hHCOy5_I/AAAAAAAABJU/LVIhp43pRiw/s1600/battleofthesexes.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Battle-Sexes--Continues-Board-Game/dp/B001EXXGV2/ref=sr_1_1?s=toys-and-games&ie=UTF8&qid=1333633261&sr=1-1"><b>Battle of the Sexes</b></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-doTptDq7dr4/T32hjHfvYEI/AAAAAAAABJc/WBqwA4gd-Ro/s1600/deckofcards.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="242" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-doTptDq7dr4/T32hjHfvYEI/AAAAAAAABJc/WBqwA4gd-Ro/s320/deckofcards.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Bicycle-Poker-Standard-Index-Playing/dp/B000050GER/ref=sr_1_4?s=toys-and-games&ie=UTF8&qid=1333633353&sr=1-4">Card</a></b> games including <a href="http://www.instructables.com/id/How-to-play-speed-card-game/">Speed</a>, <a href="http://rummy.com/rummyrules.html">Rummy</a>, and <a href="http://www.pagat.com/beating/cheat.html">BS</a>.</div><br />
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But the favorite game, at least of Miss L and me, has to be<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4ysGH1AYEew/T32h_2_n9OI/AAAAAAAABJk/mC-6j4dCebk/s1600/bananagrams.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4ysGH1AYEew/T32h_2_n9OI/AAAAAAAABJk/mC-6j4dCebk/s1600/bananagrams.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Bananagrams-BAN001/dp/1932188126/ref=sr_1_1?s=toys-and-games&ie=UTF8&qid=1333633470&sr=1-1"><b>Bananagrams</b></a></div><br />
My sister and her husband, Mr. and Mrs. Claus, sent us this last Christmas, saying it was one of their favorite games. I can see why!<br />
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I'd like to encourage everyone to get out some games and start playing.Brenda M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03973687853207379222noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6372677939845812172.post-28091281322475896362012-04-03T15:14:00.001-07:002012-04-03T15:16:57.416-07:00Black Bean Soup<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wdkR3pP9G0M/T3tyTsq09AI/AAAAAAAABI8/UoNnUn5tKto/s1600/IMG_1059.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="206" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wdkR3pP9G0M/T3tyTsq09AI/AAAAAAAABI8/UoNnUn5tKto/s320/IMG_1059.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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I had this delicious and healthy soup for lunch today. I started it in my <a href="http://www.crock-pot.com/Index.aspx">crock pot</a> yesterday afternoon. The slow cooking really brought the flavors together -- and made my house smell incredible. I sprinkled on a little grated extra sharp cheddar cheese, and served reduced salt Ritz crackers on the side (not forgetting to add a few to share with the pups). If you'd care to make your own, here's how I did it.<br />
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<u><b>Black Bean Soup</b></u><br />
1 lb. dried black beans, soaked and cooked<br />
1 14.5 oz can petite diced tomatoes<br />
4 carrots, diced<br />
9 mini red, orange, and yellow bell peppers, diced<br />
1 onion, diced<br />
4 cups beef broth<br />
1 t. coriander<br />
1 t. oregano<br />
1 t. marjoram<br />
<br />
Place everything except the spices in the crock pot (you'll need at least the 5 qt. size). Stir, cover, and cook on LOW for 16 hours. Add the spices and cook for an additional 4 hours. Serve and enjoy.Brenda M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03973687853207379222noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6372677939845812172.post-55693486894398445602012-04-02T14:50:00.000-07:002012-04-03T14:57:06.904-07:00Spring Cleaning<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hoYogryszq4/T3txWc8eICI/AAAAAAAABI0/EjPHes7huUE/s1600/spring-cleaning.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="http://akadesign.ca/" border="0" height="252" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hoYogryszq4/T3txWc8eICI/AAAAAAAABI0/EjPHes7huUE/s320/spring-cleaning.jpg" title="" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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I've started my spring cleaning in the kitchen this year with the refrigerator. I'll be going room by room 'til the whole house is done.<br />
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I love the feeling of peace and comfort I get when my house is in order.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">h/t: <a href="http://akadesign.ca/?p=7616">aka design for the photo</a>. </span>Brenda M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03973687853207379222noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6372677939845812172.post-75941673868816122452012-04-01T14:37:00.001-07:002012-04-03T15:15:43.465-07:00Unintended Hiatus<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EYS3Fx5ji38/T3tuhuiEFAI/AAAAAAAABIs/o_yjO5PdHt4/s1600/IMG_0981.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EYS3Fx5ji38/T3tuhuiEFAI/AAAAAAAABIs/o_yjO5PdHt4/s320/IMG_0981.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
Well, I hadn't planned to take a break from blogging, but I did.<br />
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I plan to get back to it now.<br />
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Thanks for coming back.Brenda M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03973687853207379222noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6372677939845812172.post-36370158160796189212012-02-16T07:23:00.002-07:002012-02-16T07:23:00.373-07:00Apples, and Peaches, and Pears, OH MY!Spring has arrived in my little corner of the desert, and that means that it's time to plant trees.<br />
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Last fall, I put in an order at a local nursery for some fruit trees. They're here. Scott and I spent last Saturday getting them planted. We have:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ht8_cIJ-goA/TzqZMHn-IwI/AAAAAAAABHU/5hijrvgoxsY/s1600/IMG_1026.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ht8_cIJ-goA/TzqZMHn-IwI/AAAAAAAABHU/5hijrvgoxsY/s320/IMG_1026.jpg" width="252" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">An <a href="http://www.willisorchards.com/product/Anna+Apple+Tree?category=245">"Anna"</a> apple tree, already in bloom.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cSkc33vdW94/TzqZ61WR3zI/AAAAAAAABHc/kJHputPhMGk/s1600/IMG_1027.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cSkc33vdW94/TzqZ61WR3zI/AAAAAAAABHc/kJHputPhMGk/s320/IMG_1027.jpg" width="124" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">A <a href="http://www.willisorchards.com/product/Dorsett+Golden+Apple+Tree">"Dorsett"</a> apple tree, tall and many branched.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e5At52FAYKc/TzqaabmRYSI/AAAAAAAABHk/jKIlSjkqDOw/s1600/IMG_1028.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e5At52FAYKc/TzqaabmRYSI/AAAAAAAABHk/jKIlSjkqDOw/s320/IMG_1028.jpg" width="199" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">An <a href="http://www.buyplantsonline.com/earligrande-peach-tree-five-gallon.html">"Earligrande"</a> peach tree.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mnFqanLe_mM/TzqbO3LXtOI/AAAAAAAABHs/HuqXr-qhO9w/s1600/IMG_1029.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mnFqanLe_mM/TzqbO3LXtOI/AAAAAAAABHs/HuqXr-qhO9w/s320/IMG_1029.jpg" width="136" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">A <a href="http://www.willisorchards.com/product/Improved+Kieffer+Pear+Tree?category=253">"Kefir"</a> pear tree, beginning to bud.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3if4eUBn224/TzqfyYHyX0I/AAAAAAAABH0/uzBBoakYTpQ/s1600/IMG_1030.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3if4eUBn224/TzqfyYHyX0I/AAAAAAAABH0/uzBBoakYTpQ/s320/IMG_1030.jpg" width="113" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">A <a href="http://www.willisorchards.com/product/Sugar+Pear+Tree">"Sugar"</a> pear tree.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">I learned a lot about fruit trees in the desert, but some of the information was universal. For example, did you know that when planting fruit trees, you need to make sure that the node of the graft is ALWAYS facing north? If you don't, the tree will try to twist itself around to make it so, and will die. Also, you shouldn't allow the trees to fruit for the first two years -- you must let them flower, but not fruit. This helps to ensure a healthy root system, and a trunk that is sturdy enough to support the weight of the fruit. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">One final thing I learned is that dogs find the branches of apple trees to be a sweet treat, so you have to watch them closely, and keep your pruning shears close by.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: left;">In other news, the rest of the garden that I planted in the fall didn't do very well. I have only 2 sickly looking spinach plants, </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LqB85oNPB1c/TzqiD23bVhI/AAAAAAAABH8/Ee1Ocs1PTDA/s1600/IMG_1036.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LqB85oNPB1c/TzqiD23bVhI/AAAAAAAABH8/Ee1Ocs1PTDA/s320/IMG_1036.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> 3 midget pea plants, </div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xgdnmwvw1rQ/TzqiXEaVQ5I/AAAAAAAABIE/MWKzqD-sln0/s1600/IMG_1032.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="188" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xgdnmwvw1rQ/TzqiXEaVQ5I/AAAAAAAABIE/MWKzqD-sln0/s200/IMG_1032.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xjWICopiZrM/TzqidYzfuyI/AAAAAAAABIM/6aPOWmwV4m0/s1600/IMG_1033.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="198" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xjWICopiZrM/TzqidYzfuyI/AAAAAAAABIM/6aPOWmwV4m0/s200/IMG_1033.JPG" width="200" /></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">some red and romaine lettuce,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-doTAc2SNqww/TzqjCX-rhBI/AAAAAAAABIU/I8CmqcGqLfc/s1600/IMG_1031.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-doTAc2SNqww/TzqjCX-rhBI/AAAAAAAABIU/I8CmqcGqLfc/s320/IMG_1031.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> one cabbage,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3dfIYEk-bJs/Tzqjhi6h0iI/AAAAAAAABIc/qj81K9pr2dw/s1600/IMG_1035.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3dfIYEk-bJs/Tzqjhi6h0iI/AAAAAAAABIc/qj81K9pr2dw/s320/IMG_1035.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> two strawberry plants, </div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3ST3XByabY0/Tzqj5pXtgPI/AAAAAAAABIk/uvFyeeHPWoY/s1600/IMG_1034.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3ST3XByabY0/Tzqj5pXtgPI/AAAAAAAABIk/uvFyeeHPWoY/s320/IMG_1034.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> and one rhubarb plant. </div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div style="text-align: left;">I'd thought that the rhubarb had died, as all the leaves wilted and came off, however, a couple of weeks ago they started growing again, and seem to be doing quite well.</div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: left;">All in all, I'm a bit disappointed with the way things have gone, but I've learned a lot and hope that will enable me to do better this spring. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div>Brenda M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03973687853207379222noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6372677939845812172.post-71719020664371500362012-02-15T09:01:00.001-07:002012-02-15T09:01:00.908-07:00Gretchen at the Spinning Wheel<div style="text-align: center;">Gretchen am Spinnrade, op.2, D.118 by Franz P. Schubert</div><div style="text-align: center;">Performed by Dame Kiri Te Kanawa </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/MY0eeotSDi8" width="420"></iframe></div>Brenda M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03973687853207379222noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6372677939845812172.post-23381819364509836562012-02-14T05:08:00.001-07:002012-02-14T05:08:00.346-07:00Happy Valentine's Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-n2ntun4-SU0/Tzk1s_RDMtI/AAAAAAAABHM/y2Azq1EBLwc/s1600/free-valentines-day-vectors-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="260" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-n2ntun4-SU0/Tzk1s_RDMtI/AAAAAAAABHM/y2Azq1EBLwc/s320/free-valentines-day-vectors-5.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.poemsforfree.com/valday.html"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Valentine's Day</span></b></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">by Nicholas Gordon</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><span style="font-size: large;">Valentine's Day</span></i></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><span style="font-size: large;">Is a wonderful way</span></i></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><span style="font-size: large;">To make "I love you"</span></i></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><span style="font-size: large;">easy to say.</span></i></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></i></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></i></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">I hope you have a lovely Valentine's Day, and that you're able to spend the day with the people you love.</span><i><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></i></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></i> </span></span><b><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></b></div>Brenda M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03973687853207379222noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6372677939845812172.post-32837118272755182522012-02-13T08:59:00.000-07:002012-02-13T08:59:38.406-07:00How's It Get That Way?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-00p2fHQyWpk/Tzkso21dLoI/AAAAAAAABGs/N_aDZattxKU/s1600/IMG_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-00p2fHQyWpk/Tzkso21dLoI/AAAAAAAABGs/N_aDZattxKU/s320/IMG_1024.jpg" width="159" /></a></div>Have you ever wondered how a length of yarn gets turned into a neat little skein?<br />
<br />
When I've finished plying yarn on my spinning wheel, I need to get it off the bobbin and put into a hank, so that I can get the spin set or twist it into a skein for storage. To do this I use my <a href="http://www.knitpicks.com/accessories/Niddy_Noddys__DKPNiddyNoddys.html">niddy noddy</a>.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6IyfQyMzWkc/TzktUiQByaI/AAAAAAAABG0/4K_rirvaS2U/s1600/IMG_1011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="204" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6IyfQyMzWkc/TzktUiQByaI/AAAAAAAABG0/4K_rirvaS2U/s320/IMG_1011.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>A <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Niddy_noddy">niddy noddy</a> has a center bar, with a smaller bar at either end which are at a 90º angle from each other. Yarn is wound onto the niddy noddy by going up over one end of the top bar, then down under the end of the bottom bar, back up over the other end of the top bar, and then back down over the other end of the bottom bar. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=orwh8cIePRE">You can watch a video of this here.</a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HTHb1BvHrKg/Tzku50tdSaI/AAAAAAAABG8/9_qmfRTyAqY/s1600/IMG_1020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HTHb1BvHrKg/Tzku50tdSaI/AAAAAAAABG8/9_qmfRTyAqY/s320/IMG_1020.JPG" width="190" /></a></div>This process is repeated until all of the yarn has been put onto the niddy noddy. Both ends of the yarn are then tied around the hank, so that they can be easily untied, but will still hold and keep the yarn from unwinding or tangling until you untie them. Then you take the yarn off. I do this by slipping the hank off of each of the ends.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mGM6F_BF5Js/Tzkvof1UhGI/AAAAAAAABHE/wwyYulzhlAM/s1600/IMG_1023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mGM6F_BF5Js/Tzkvof1UhGI/AAAAAAAABHE/wwyYulzhlAM/s320/IMG_1023.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Niddy noddies come in various sizes, and it's useful to know what size hank yours will make. Mine makes hanks of which each loop of the hank is approximately 5 1/2 feet in circumference. If you count the number of loops, multiply by 5 1/2, and then divide by 3, you get the yardage for the hank. While in this state, it is ready to have the spin set, be dyed, or wound into a ball.<br />
<br />
If you're not yet ready to set the spin or wind it into a ball, if you hold the hank so that it is looped around your hands, you can then twist the loops, each hand moving in the opposite direction, until there is plenty of twist built up and there is only a small loop at each end of the hank where your hands were. Fold the hank in half, slide one loop inside the other, and let the hank twist around itself. When done properly, this is the best way to store your yarn as it doesn't put additional strain on the fibers.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-00p2fHQyWpk/Tzkso21dLoI/AAAAAAAABGs/N_aDZattxKU/s1600/IMG_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-00p2fHQyWpk/Tzkso21dLoI/AAAAAAAABGs/N_aDZattxKU/s320/IMG_1024.jpg" width="159" /></a></div>One skein of yarn, ready to store.Brenda M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03973687853207379222noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6372677939845812172.post-77935507305836937702012-02-10T09:06:00.000-07:002012-02-10T09:06:14.743-07:00What A Week<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YqnjN-wCR7o/TzU0HagK8KI/AAAAAAAABFc/zZrtLTtJCvk/s1600/common_cold.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YqnjN-wCR7o/TzU0HagK8KI/AAAAAAAABFc/zZrtLTtJCvk/s1600/common_cold.jpeg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">rhino virus (common cold) illustration</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<br />
So, I'm still trying to recover from the micro-beastie that decided to make its home in my body.<br />
<br />
Downside: It's been a week already, I'm not yet completely better, and I am so beyond ready to be healthy again.<br />
<br />
Upside: Crafty goodness.<br />
<br />
Yes, it's true. I got past the not being able to concentrate thing, and have been busy working on several projects.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c7Vu7hqlwQw/TzU1ZVEmJlI/AAAAAAAABGc/txah591y9h4/s1600/IMG_1012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="144" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c7Vu7hqlwQw/TzU1ZVEmJlI/AAAAAAAABGc/txah591y9h4/s320/IMG_1012.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>First up we have the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/triangular-summer-shawl">Triangular Summer Shawl</a>. I started <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/AGoodYarn/triangular-summer-shawl-2">this</a> last October, but after the initial cast-on and first few rows, it got set aside in favor of other projects. I don't know why. Its knit with linen/silk blend handspun, which I like. Its a pattern I've done before and like. There is no reason not to have been working on it. But I wasn't. Having gotten a couple of things off the needles, I decided to work only on my wips, so this got picked back up. I have about 40 more rows on the shawl (each shorter than the one before, so it goes quickly), a lace edging, sewing on the lace edging, washing, blocking, and weaving in the ends.<br />
<br />
Come to think of it, it sounds like I still have quite a lot of work to do. And here I was getting all excited about how close to finishing I was getting.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IdwRU-VQzd4/TzU0uJhkIeI/AAAAAAAABFk/NlJDyOn3rmU/s1600/IMG_1010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="253" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IdwRU-VQzd4/TzU0uJhkIeI/AAAAAAAABFk/NlJDyOn3rmU/s320/IMG_1010.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Next up is the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/AGoodYarn/nameless-socks">sock</a> I'm designing as I go. I picked up a ball of <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/yarns/library/knitting-fever-indulgence">Indulgence</a> from my lys, and loved the feel of the yarn and the color so much, I decided to cast on a sock immediately. I wasn't sure how the color repeat would go, but it turns out to be self-striping, so I knew that I could get away with some patterning without it being too busy or getting lost. I've got lace panels framing a center section of cables and ribbing. I like the way they are coming out, but am not thrilled with the short-row heel that I'd used. I think I'll do some looking around to find a heel that works better for these socks. Any suggestions? I also don't have a name for these yet, so any suggestions would be welcome.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Note to self: Make sure to write down what you've been doing, so that the second sock will actually match the first.</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qjph8EpigI4/TzU1IkOY0rI/AAAAAAAABGU/p5XXz7u6eTo/s1600/IMG_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qjph8EpigI4/TzU1IkOY0rI/AAAAAAAABGU/p5XXz7u6eTo/s320/IMG_1024.jpg" width="159" /></a></div>Finally there is the cashmere I've been spinning. I was able to pick up some incredibly soft and lovely <a href="http://www.paradisefibers.net/Cashmere-Top-roving-spinning-fiber-p/3453.htm">cashmere top</a>, and was trying to spin it for a wedding ring shawl (examples of which are <a href="http://www.heirloom-knitting.co.uk/what_is_sl.html">Shetland</a> and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Orenburg_shawl">Orenburg</a> shawls).<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7nsZKmHgcBE/TzU7O2VDUeI/AAAAAAAABGk/1usbhvo94Bg/s1600/IMG_1019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="270" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7nsZKmHgcBE/TzU7O2VDUeI/AAAAAAAABGk/1usbhvo94Bg/s320/IMG_1019.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Truth is, it is nowhere near fine enough for that, but it is a good lace weight. The above skein is about 2 oz. (50 g), is two-ply, and is approximately 440 yards (400 meters). It is clear to me that I still have a long way to go before I'm able to ply as well as I'd like to, and before I'll be able to spin for a wedding shawl, but I have decided, overall, to be pleased with this yarn.<br />
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I still have another 2 oz. to spin and ply, and then will go in search of the perfect project. If anyone has a pattern they would like to recommend, I am open to all suggestions.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Brenda M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03973687853207379222noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6372677939845812172.post-84234622506683442982012-02-05T12:41:00.000-07:002012-02-05T12:41:16.817-07:00Oh Crud!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-f33kiTd_Hog/Ty7Z_1_4CII/AAAAAAAABFU/wdcAuWFrJoM/s1600/sick-person.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-f33kiTd_Hog/Ty7Z_1_4CII/AAAAAAAABFU/wdcAuWFrJoM/s320/sick-person.jpg" width="288" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I'm so excited! I finished another project, and I can't wait to tell you about it. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">But it's a super secret project. So I can't. Yet.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Instead, I have fallen victim to the crud that is making its rounds in my little town. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Ah, the many things one's children bring home from the cesspool we fondly refer to as school.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This is completely interfering with my ability to craft, so I'm not getting anything more done. I do try to work on things, but find I cannot concentrate on anything for more than about 5 seconds. (Sigh)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I hope your weekend is treating you better than mine, and that illness manages to skip your dwelling all together.</div>Brenda M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03973687853207379222noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6372677939845812172.post-5171994224836713582012-02-02T16:45:00.002-07:002012-02-02T17:05:04.932-07:00Darning a Sock<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/AGoodYarn/jenny-socks">I had knit a pair of Jenny Socks</a> out of <a href="http://www.straw.com/cpy/yarns/pandasilk-card.html">Crystal Palace Yarns Panda Silk yarn</a>. This yarn is beautiful. It is so soft, and has such lovely drape and luster.<br />
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It is not, however, a good selection for socks. The very things that make it lovely to work with, make for socks that will not stand up well to wear. And so, I ended up with a hole on the heel of one of the socks.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EdpsNDeTe7U/TysbV5Q10OI/AAAAAAAABEE/YTVIdjsq5I4/s1600/IMG_0991.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EdpsNDeTe7U/TysbV5Q10OI/AAAAAAAABEE/YTVIdjsq5I4/s320/IMG_0991.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Rather than deal with this as I usually due (throwing it away), I decided since I have a <a href="http://www.knitpicks.com/cfaccessories/accessory_display.cfm?ID=80617">darning egg</a>, it was time I used it.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ydcszouWpX8/TysbYXO17RI/AAAAAAAABEM/U3NlBmY-zgo/s1600/IMG_0993.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ydcszouWpX8/TysbYXO17RI/AAAAAAAABEM/U3NlBmY-zgo/s320/IMG_0993.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>I gathered together the supplies I was going to need: the holey sock, left over yarn, scissors, a tapestry needle, and the aforementioned darning egg.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rhGO2ryQjU4/TysbakpRkQI/AAAAAAAABEU/QFDm6CksyS8/s1600/IMG_0994.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rhGO2ryQjU4/TysbakpRkQI/AAAAAAAABEU/QFDm6CksyS8/s320/IMG_0994.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>I turned the sock inside out, and slid the darning egg inside. I positioned it so the rounded edge was centered under the hole. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8_rkueDwjZM/TysbdOXez6I/AAAAAAAABEc/hZXn3nhgJvs/s1600/IMG_0995.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8_rkueDwjZM/TysbdOXez6I/AAAAAAAABEc/hZXn3nhgJvs/s320/IMG_0995.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>I cut off a length of yarn (I think it was about 1 1/2-2 ft.), threaded it through the tapestry needle, and began weaving it through the sock. I started both below and after the place where the yarn was broken, and, working from right to left, wove the yarn in using <a href="http://www.knittinghelp.com/video/play/common-join">duplicate stitch</a>.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BZBBJLR82UE/Tysbe9ML7zI/AAAAAAAABEk/XOQ3rEy13OY/s1600/IMG_0996.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="184" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BZBBJLR82UE/Tysbe9ML7zI/AAAAAAAABEk/XOQ3rEy13OY/s320/IMG_0996.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>When I reached the hole, I left loops for the stitches that were dropped when the yarn broke. My plan being to basically re-knit this section with the tapestry needle as I was weaving the yarn through to strengthen the area.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3lghTDMbHGs/TysbhnhBp3I/AAAAAAAABEs/YT9XYKMQQeQ/s1600/IMG_0997.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3lghTDMbHGs/TysbhnhBp3I/AAAAAAAABEs/YT9XYKMQQeQ/s320/IMG_0997.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>I continued doing this process, row by row, working the loops as I came to them,<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e6Z594NoGM8/Tysbj4B-OTI/AAAAAAAABE0/BGY31ysORZM/s1600/IMG_0998.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e6Z594NoGM8/Tysbj4B-OTI/AAAAAAAABE0/BGY31ysORZM/s320/IMG_0998.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>until the hole was securely closed up. Then I turned the sock right side out to see how it looked.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-V4X-UwhJBMQ/TysbmeTFr2I/AAAAAAAABE8/GHluu54o8Dg/s1600/IMG_0999.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-V4X-UwhJBMQ/TysbmeTFr2I/AAAAAAAABE8/GHluu54o8Dg/s320/IMG_0999.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>It's clear that the fix wasn't perfect, but I prefer this look to the usual (and highly visible) method of darning, which entails weaving a patch across the hole.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6EKDfzWQi7M/Tysbnuo7y1I/AAAAAAAABFE/Y7BcrFBc9Ng/s1600/IMG_1000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6EKDfzWQi7M/Tysbnuo7y1I/AAAAAAAABFE/Y7BcrFBc9Ng/s320/IMG_1000.jpg" width="237" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SzeC-ouy9WQ/TysboWMzDfI/AAAAAAAABFM/4BLfk3EdcL0/s1600/IMG_1001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="315" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SzeC-ouy9WQ/TysboWMzDfI/AAAAAAAABFM/4BLfk3EdcL0/s320/IMG_1001.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>The repair is not very noticeable when the sock is on, and would be even less visible inside a shoe.<br />
<br />
Considering the delicate nature of this yarn, however, I think I'll keep them completely out of shoes and make them house or bed socks.<br />
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For any future repairs, I will consult one of <a href="http://www.knitpicks.com/tutorials/Darning__L10040509.html">these videos</a> first so that my repair truly does end up invisible.Brenda M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03973687853207379222noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6372677939845812172.post-42917957007941384412012-02-01T12:36:00.000-07:002012-02-01T12:36:24.147-07:00Book Review: The Misanthrope's Guide to Life (Go Away!)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k2jdYben1Gc/Tyl53BTzACI/AAAAAAAABD8/LMDxqbIfU2A/s1600/112384490.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k2jdYben1Gc/Tyl53BTzACI/AAAAAAAABD8/LMDxqbIfU2A/s320/112384490.JPG" width="220" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/misanthropes-guide-to-life-meghan-rowland/1102212178?ean=9781440525087&itm=1&usri=the+misanthrope%27s+guide+to+life"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Misanthrope's Guide to Life (Go Away!) <span style="font-size: small;">by Meghan Rowland and Chris Turner-Neal</span></span></span></a> </div><br />
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Written by the authors of <a href="http://www.2birds1blog.com/">2birds1blog</a>, this book is a humorous look at human interaction, ways to avoid it, and coping strategies for when you can't. <br />
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<b>Misanthrope* (noun):</b><br />
<b>1. One who hates mankind; a curmudgeon; a loner.</b><br />
<b>2. The guy in your office who responded to your e-mail of baby photos with, "D-. Passing, but not college material."</b><br />
<b>3. A realist</b><br />
<b> </b><br />
The book opens by introducing us to the authors, giving a brief history of misanthropy throughout history, and then offers quizzes to help you determine if you are a misanthropist, and if so, what type.<br />
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We all have to deal with difficult people, but for some, the loathing runs deep. It's not just strangers that are a problem, it's any other homo sapien with a pulse. A plan is needed. One that contains multiple, creative coping strategies appropriate for any situation a misanthrope may find themself in.<br />
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<br />
Frustrated with your coworkers? Find information about professions well suited to misanthropes, such as writer, trucker, and wilderness lady, as well as career choices to avoid. There are also tips for getting through the job interview, meetings management, surviving a conference, keeping your lunch hour to yourself, avoiding after work socialization, dealing with clingy coworkers, and more! I'm particularly fond of the section on "The Politics of Pooping: How to Get a Little Goddamn Privacy in the Ladies' Room", which offers tips like coughing and hacking to "mask all but the most volcanic sounds", timing a flush, and things to do while waiting someone out. All important coping skills. <br />
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Familial interactions got you down? Chapter 4 deals with "Sex, Love, and the Misanthrope" by offering suggestions on dealing with everything from your first encounter, to public proposals, to when a relationship goes down in flames. Who doesn't want to know how to avoid the "cuddle time", keep the wedding as small as it's possible to do while still being considered legal, and passive-aggressively end a relationship? <br />
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Chapter 5 covers parenting, with scenarios that start when the precious bundle of joy is still in utero, to finally getting them to fill the moving van. There's even a section on coping in the unlikely event that the misanthrope's child ends up in beauty pageants. I think the word "invaluable" best describes the section on getting out of going to the amusement park -- from getting someone else to take them, to convincing them the amusement park no longer exists, to alternative destinations there's something for everyone.<br />
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Other chapters on dealing with the family at holidays and keeping one's home as one's castle -- even if a moat isn't possible. For example, at Christmas: "Take the mistletoe down the minute you come in the door. You're a fully-grown adult Misanthrope, and you don't have to play 'Seven Minutes in Heaven' just because it's Christmas." Another favorite of mine offers this advice for dealing with door-to-door solicitors: "Take whatever literature they have and promise to return it with edits next week. Remember to check for mechanics and usage as well as content, always assign a grade, and try to leave helpful feedback". That should work.<br />
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Annoyed by the obnoxious strangers you have to deal with while on vacation or public transit? With chapters with suggestions for the misanthrope on vacation, in public venues, and on "Planes, Trains, and Automobiles", there is no situation that is missed. Everyone can benefit from the suggestions for dealing with other people's cell phone conversations, and the world would be a better place for it.<br />
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I found this book was well-written, funny, intelligent, and relate-able, even though by their quiz standards I don't actually qualify for the title of Misanthrope. I would recommend this book, especially to anyone dealing with difficult people, but with the caveat that it's not really appropriate for younger readers or those who cannot stand any profanity or vulgarity. Just keep in mind that the book is supposed to be funny, so not all of the suggestions should be followed. Some might, in fact, be a very bad idea or even illegal. Check your local ordinances and proceed at your own risk!<br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">*This definition is taken from the book.</span>Brenda M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03973687853207379222noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6372677939845812172.post-29786812677652047222012-01-31T10:12:00.000-07:002012-01-31T10:12:52.566-07:00Petits DiamantsLast summer, I went into <a href="http://www.michaels.com/">Michael's Arts and Crafts</a> and saw they had <a href="http://www.patonsyarns.com/product.php?LGC=stretchsocks">Patons Stretch Socks yarn</a> on sale, so I purchased several balls, each in a different color. My plan was to make one pair of ankle socks with each ball. I made some <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/AGoodYarn/sproing-in-my-step">plain ribbed socks</a> for the first pair, and these are the second.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aXyic6JgSes/TygYRYdlBTI/AAAAAAAABDc/FlrnDCp0HVU/s1600/IMG_0987.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aXyic6JgSes/TygYRYdlBTI/AAAAAAAABDc/FlrnDCp0HVU/s320/IMG_0987.JPG" width="218" /></a></div>The pattern is one I improvised, consisting of a lattice pattern on top, stockinette at the toe, heel, and on the bottom, and a 1x1 folded ribbed cuff. They are knitted toe up, with a short-row heel.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9zflfI6Wm7E/TygYvSr5ffI/AAAAAAAABDk/phLYLxWPBnc/s1600/IMG_0988.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9zflfI6Wm7E/TygYvSr5ffI/AAAAAAAABDk/phLYLxWPBnc/s320/IMG_0988.JPG" width="302" /></a></div>These I planned as very short ankle socks, and I definitely achieved that. If I were to do it over again, though, I would have made them a bit longer -- another pattern repeat and a longer cuff.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-82DD0epuomA/TygZRpq7eNI/AAAAAAAABDs/_i_jTIsck6I/s1600/IMG_0989.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-82DD0epuomA/TygZRpq7eNI/AAAAAAAABDs/_i_jTIsck6I/s320/IMG_0989.JPG" width="245" /></a></div>I really like the color of these (the colorway is Algae), but I have to admit that I'm not a huge fan of this yarn. It's a cotton/wool/nylon/elastic blend that just doesn't have the softness or smooshie-ness that I like in sock yarn.<br />
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I have now knit several pairs of socks from yarns that are primarily cotton, and I find that I feel the same about all of them -- the cotton makes them hard on the feet. This disappoints me because wool is very warm, and I live in a very warm climate. I had hoped that the cotton blends would extend the sock wearing weather, and it does, but I find myself reaching for the wool socks first and saving these as a last resort. I also won't wear them if I'm going to be on my feet a lot. I think that wearing them is to the feet what knitting dishcloth cotton tightly is to the hands.<br />
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One positive is that I have found socks made from this yarn to be very sturdy and have had no issues with holes.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_ceo9Dk20kw/Tygcl0RKnmI/AAAAAAAABD0/07vfnPnUxRk/s1600/IMG_0990.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="223" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_ceo9Dk20kw/Tygcl0RKnmI/AAAAAAAABD0/07vfnPnUxRk/s320/IMG_0990.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>I really like the patterning on these, and the fit (apart from being a bit short) is perfect. I think I would knit them again, but with a different yarn.<br />
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In fact, I don't think I'll be making any more socks out of this yarn. Anyone have any ideas for other projects? I think I still have at least 2 balls in different colors.<br />
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<u>Details:</u><br />
Pattern Name: <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/AGoodYarn/petits-diamants">Petits Diamants</a><br />
Pattern Designer: <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/designers/brenda-mccunn">Brenda McCunn</a><br />
Pattern Source: Not available (yet) -- I improvised this design<br />
Yarn: <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/yarns/library/patons-stretch-socks">Patons Stretch Socks in the Kelp colorway</a><br />
Needles: <a href="http://www.knitpicks.com/needles/6_Harmony_Wood_Double_Pointed_Knitting_Needles__Dkpdpnwd.html">US 1 (2.25 mm) Knit Picks Harmony double-pointed needles</a>Brenda M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03973687853207379222noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6372677939845812172.post-79622982448506305802012-01-30T09:14:00.002-07:002012-01-30T09:16:18.666-07:00Visits and TravelLast week made it impossible to be on the computer for more than a handful of minutes.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qyiJzjDdAtE/TybBQ6jc61I/AAAAAAAABDM/NQ35a2sXVT8/s1600/Picture+040.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="244" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qyiJzjDdAtE/TybBQ6jc61I/AAAAAAAABDM/NQ35a2sXVT8/s320/Picture+040.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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Scott had a business trip to <a href="http://www.dubaitourism.ae/">Dubai</a> (I'm so jealous!), and the day he left, my dad arrived to stay for the week.<br />
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Scott's trip went well, I'm very happy to have him home again, and I'm so grateful for <a href="http://www.skype.com/intl/en-us/home">Skype</a>. It enabled us to talk every day without breaking the bank, and the quality of the calls were amazing. It's also where all of my computer time went.<br />
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It was lovely to see and spend time with my dad, and I'm happy he came. He's been considering moving here, so we went and looked at some homes for sale. He didn't find anything that would work, and I honestly don't think he'll be moving, after all.<br />
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Things are finally getting back to normal around here now, and I have some project updates that I'm excited to be able to share about this week.<br />
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I hope everyone has a fabulous Monday!Brenda M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03973687853207379222noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6372677939845812172.post-70444513478622886422012-01-20T14:35:00.001-07:002012-01-20T14:37:00.634-07:00O Mio Babbino CaroJust wanted to share a lovely version of one of my favorite arias.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/gJV_nY2CoqQ" width="420"></iframe><br />
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<a href="http://classicalmusic.about.com/od/classicalmusictips/qt/o_mio_bambino_caro_lyrics.htm">Lyrics:</a><br />
O mio babbino caro, Oh my dear father, <br />
mi piace, è bello bello, I like him, he is very handsome.<br />
vo’andare in Porta Rossa I want to go to Porta Rossa<br />
a comperar l’anello! to buy the ring! <br />
Si, si, ci voglio andare! Yes, yes, I want to go there!<br />
E se l’amassi indarno, And if my love were in vain,<br />
andrei sul Ponte Vecchio I would go to Ponte Vecchio<br />
ma per buttarmi in Arno! and throw myself in the Arno!<br />
Mi struggo e mi tormento, I am pining and I am tormented, <br />
O Dio! Vorrei morir! Oh God! I would want to die! <br />
Babbo, pietà, pietà! Daddy, have mercy, have mercy!<br />
Babbo, pietà, pietà! Daddy, have mercy, have mercy!Brenda M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03973687853207379222noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6372677939845812172.post-8747006358098083452012-01-17T13:20:00.001-07:002012-01-17T13:25:40.977-07:00More WIPs Than I Can Shake A Needle AtI ended last year, and began this year, with so many works-in-progress (hereafter known as wips) that it is a bit overwhelming.<br />
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I just checked <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/AGoodYarn">my Ravelry notebook</a>, and I have a total of 10 wips listed there. I have another 5 wips that aren't listed.<br />
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Sadly, the only project I've completed is a pair of felted clogs for my dh.<br />
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Did I say completed?<br />
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I mean, finished knitting. They are now patiently waiting in my laundry room for me to get around to <a href="http://www.fuzzygalore.biz/articles/fulling.shtml">fulling</a> them. And to be photographed.<br />
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I am finding myself making a fair bit of progress, though. On all of the wips. I have a sneaking suspicion that I'm going to end up finishing several projects within a period of a week.<br />
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'Til then, I guess I'll just keep plodding along, and find something else to talk about.Brenda M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03973687853207379222noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6372677939845812172.post-29096887036982750152012-01-09T14:45:00.000-07:002012-01-09T14:45:36.135-07:00Back to Life, Back to Reality<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ReCee2VQh-8/Twtfn5wMgHI/AAAAAAAABDE/n6FLsKdtuDM/s1600/HappyNewYear2012.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ReCee2VQh-8/Twtfn5wMgHI/AAAAAAAABDE/n6FLsKdtuDM/s320/HappyNewYear2012.gif" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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Today is the official end of the winter holiday break. I hope everyone was able to spend the holidays with the people they love, enjoying one another's company.<br />
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As some of you may know, I listen to a lot of podcasts. They cover a variety of subjects, but most of them are craft related. You may also remember that I don't do New Year's resolutions. So, what do the two things have to do with each other?<br />
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One of the podcasts that I listen to is The Knitmore Girls. One of the hosts, Jasmine, does a theme for the year, as opposed to a resolution. I think this a marvelous idea. So I'm stealing it.<br />
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My theme(s) for 2012:<br />
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<a href="http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/gratitude">Gratitude</a><br />
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<a href="http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/thoughtful">Thoughtful</a><br />
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<a href="http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/diligent">Diligent</a><br />
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Living <a href="http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/Intentionally">intentionally</a><br />
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Does anyone else have a theme or resolutions for 2012?Brenda M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03973687853207379222noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6372677939845812172.post-71598700469160118212011-12-25T11:36:00.000-07:002011-12-25T11:36:46.530-07:00Merry Christmas!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pF1g8SxGpUo/TvdsUyxXjRI/AAAAAAAABC8/XTfVHSZQehQ/s1600/canstockphoto1311673_comp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pF1g8SxGpUo/TvdsUyxXjRI/AAAAAAAABC8/XTfVHSZQehQ/s320/canstockphoto1311673_comp.jpg" width="308" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Wishing you a very merry Christmas, from my family to yours.</div><div style="text-align: center;">May your homes and hearts be filled with</div><div style="text-align: center;">love, laughter, peace, joy, and contentment</div><div style="text-align: center;">today, and every day.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://grif.net/2011/12/122511-christmas-day-grif-net-the-story-of-christmas/">The Real Christmas Story</a></div>Brenda M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03973687853207379222noreply@blogger.com0