tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-58328712121500835872024-03-05T04:17:54.817-05:00Delusions of Domesticityhaving fun in the kitchen and lots of crafty goodness all while living a nontraditional lifestyleAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01259286721266608384noreply@blogger.comBlogger271125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5832871212150083587.post-72793660177189611622013-12-22T16:42:00.000-05:002013-12-22T16:42:08.423-05:00Merry Christmas, everyone!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9N7pJPLDuqCWnFzTXWlzxLxDAss0ni16hpOx9Gf6hiG3sxERtLmwhYX8jttJDM0PZ-4noljtt-5U5LG6FkHt5NZ2Hbz0Sc1uc5KvLzuE98HP1PjAX2z1oAOxhZQhsWDJSIQnwZQbrPK8/s1600/Merry+Christmas+2013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9N7pJPLDuqCWnFzTXWlzxLxDAss0ni16hpOx9Gf6hiG3sxERtLmwhYX8jttJDM0PZ-4noljtt-5U5LG6FkHt5NZ2Hbz0Sc1uc5KvLzuE98HP1PjAX2z1oAOxhZQhsWDJSIQnwZQbrPK8/s640/Merry+Christmas+2013.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01259286721266608384noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5832871212150083587.post-12343004804447817442013-07-22T23:55:00.001-04:002013-07-23T00:16:11.992-04:00in progress and plans<div style="text-align: center;">
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I haven't been spinning much thanks to work being a little busier and the temperatures soaring, but with just a little practice, I started getting more consistent: </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfSmWo9IfXqrxA2fWHhsBlSn-oqcygv7oAQ40lvIR7kUpniP2HBsP_FHb0vrUx5ZZxtErR1kz4VZaKbm2UshWxLZB9dnQzBADKCa2q5eAcg3tn77p-befL0P32Ag2u5IIvbohF4KtYR_o/s1600/IMAG0732.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfSmWo9IfXqrxA2fWHhsBlSn-oqcygv7oAQ40lvIR7kUpniP2HBsP_FHb0vrUx5ZZxtErR1kz4VZaKbm2UshWxLZB9dnQzBADKCa2q5eAcg3tn77p-befL0P32Ag2u5IIvbohF4KtYR_o/s400/IMAG0732.jpg" width="225" /></a></div>
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It's been pretty hot here lately so wool just isn't drawing me in at the moment though I <i>really </i>want to get back to my spinning. So fun! =)</div>
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(<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/people/havfaith/handspun/practice-makes-not-really-perfect">Ravelry link</a>) </div>
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I have been knitting though. That skein I mentioned <a href="http://delusionsofdomesticity.blogspot.com/2013/06/sweltering-sheep.html">a couple posts ago</a>? </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFMFLZ2Twhx8g180TOpGc7AoT1g1KJQ1gCxhMHqQ_OPj5wbqAAN5t_3c6vL7AaBkcCoNPCoArzau3oy_gWyymQl8d7jdNPYZSbSyo7LBrqz5HOOlH7fhdVm9TuYLCT6Oul3t_ymlzZ8U0/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFMFLZ2Twhx8g180TOpGc7AoT1g1KJQ1gCxhMHqQ_OPj5wbqAAN5t_3c6vL7AaBkcCoNPCoArzau3oy_gWyymQl8d7jdNPYZSbSyo7LBrqz5HOOlH7fhdVm9TuYLCT6Oul3t_ymlzZ8U0/" /></a></div>
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I started a wrap with it and yesterday was a lazy, hot day so I caught up on some podcasts and knit away in the comfort of my air conditioning. =)</div>
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This is what it looks like now:</div>
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I'm working on the 7th of 8 sections of my Wingspan. I'll have a finished pic for you soon!</div>
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(<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/havfaith/wingspan">Ravelry project details</a>) </div>
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Next up?</div>
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<a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/havfaith/174653898/IMG_6750_medium.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/havfaith/174653898/IMG_6750_medium.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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I picked up this gray/blue/white variegated cotton/acrylic (with a touch of sparkle) from the clearance bin this weekend and I'm thinking of a nice, lightweight summer cardi. Still deciding on a pattern.</div>
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I also finally caved and signed up on Instagram. Yeah, I should have done that a long time ago! If you're there, look me up... I'm <b>stashless</b>. =)</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01259286721266608384noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5832871212150083587.post-1962155365760142622013-07-08T15:54:00.000-04:002013-07-08T15:58:31.007-04:00Christmas in July!<div style="text-align: center;">
It feels like Christmas! =)</div>
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This is what came in the mail on Friday:</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/aworthyimage/9229953825/" title="Christmas in July! by veggiechick74, on Flickr"><img alt="Christmas in July!" height="500" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2810/9229953825_533aa9bc97.jpg" width="282" /></a></div>
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So... what goodies were in those boxes?</div>
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These:</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/aworthyimage/9232698160/" title="my new toy... by veggiechick74, on Flickr"><img alt="my new toy..." height="282" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2817/9232698160_83501bc6d6.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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Yep, I finally drank the Kool-Aid. I bought a <a href="http://www.hansencrafts.com/index.htm">Hansen minispinner</a>!! I've been looking at these and travel spinning wheels for ages. Even the travel wheels I think would be too bulky for in the rv and I kept changing my mind. I've had one of these electric minispinners in my virtual cart multiple times and always took it back out... but not this time! lol I decided I was worth a splurge... and I don't regret it one little bit. I've already paid off the charges on my credit card so it's all good. =) I also bought a lazy kate to make plying yarn simpler. Yeah, I could rig something up, but if I'm splurging, I might as well get what I want, right? lol Every thing is very compact and fits well in the rv. I knew too that these resell for nearly as much as they go for new so I figured if I bought it and hated it, I could sell it again and get most of my money back.</div>
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Of course it showed up Friday while I was still fairly early in my work day. *sigh* So I left it all in the box. Since it's Tour de Fleece (running in conjunction with Tour de France, of course), many shops were offering sales so I then went off in search of some fiber to spin. The first package was to arrive Saturday, but I wanted to start on some less expensive fiber since I'm a complete newbie so I headed off to <a href="https://www.paradisefibers.com/">Paradise Fibers</a> here in Spokane and bought some fiber. I can't say I was overly impressed with Paradise Fibers, but I got what I needed to get started. I opened the boxes when I got home and the spinner came with a small sample of the same fiber I bought, just in a different colorway.</div>
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After a few false starts (there's a learning curve here), I got going and spun up the sample:</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/aworthyimage/9225528045/" title="first ever handspun!! by veggiechick74, on Flickr"><img alt="first ever handspun!!" height="282" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2838/9225528045_02f570f6bb.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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Yeah, pretty much what I was expecting... overspun, underspun, thick and thin. LOL But I love it because <b>I made yarn</b>!! =)</div>
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So then I started on the fiber I bought:</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/aworthyimage/9228328206/" title="handspun by veggiechick74, on Flickr"><img alt="handspun" height="500" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3733/9228328206_39cd0ed741.jpg" width="282" /></a></div>
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A little better, but still pretty wonky.<br />
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I spun more on Sunday morning and things evened out a bit:</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/aworthyimage/9230629489/" title="Untitled by veggiechick74, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="500" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3784/9230629489_0acda0f90b.jpg" width="282" /></a><br />
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I think I might be a little underspun on a lot of this, but I'm finding my groove... and I <i>love </i>it!! I have 8oz of this fiber and plan to spin it on two bobbins so I can ply it together.</div>
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Once I get more consistent, I'll break into that awesome hand-dyed fiber I bought. =) I still need to get a bag to store it all in and I know the one I want, just deciding on a fabric. Now I just need my own sheep... or an alpaca. LOL</div>
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<a href="http://www.bluegrassbabydolls.com/images/sheepi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="216" src="http://www.bluegrassbabydolls.com/images/sheepi.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01259286721266608384noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5832871212150083587.post-33792336476439743072013-06-30T16:09:00.001-04:002013-06-30T16:10:04.967-04:00sweltering sheep<div>
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I made it!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIItejnNrXdmhCF3bw4mZegbPq1YlyYDVAdL3oVTFDO8aFwG2ngQFOAeRDBuM_0MnseKF5Bh9d_FF68rNM_h1jnHJYwA00M7QbsO6kCeHVM8OTqS_4OR9fXjRaWPcmiJSw6R1UemXawfc/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIItejnNrXdmhCF3bw4mZegbPq1YlyYDVAdL3oVTFDO8aFwG2ngQFOAeRDBuM_0MnseKF5Bh9d_FF68rNM_h1jnHJYwA00M7QbsO6kCeHVM8OTqS_4OR9fXjRaWPcmiJSw6R1UemXawfc/" /></a></div>
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I was trying to get my sweater done by the end of June... and I made it!</div>
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I even really like it. LOL It needs to be blocked so the lace will open up more and I need to find buttons for it, but the knitting is done! =) I'll post pics later on once it's got buttons and it's not so dang hot outside that I can actually put it on for a picture without spontaneously combusting. Yep, 100% wool sweaters and 95-100 degree weather does not mix well. heh</div>
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(<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/havfaith/113-17-jacket-with-raglan-sleeve-and-pattern-on-yoke-in-silke-alpaca">Ravelry project page for details</a>)</div>
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I showed it to my friend and she said how pretty it was... then immediately went into what she would change. This is the same friend who's been suggesting I knit <i>her </i>a sweater. This one took me a month and a half to complete since I have had limited knitting time. Yeah, I think I'll stick to knitting for me. Totally selfish... and I'm okay with that. I do knit for other people, but I don't knit <i>sweaters </i>for other people. ;-)</div>
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Next up? Something with this:</div>
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<a href="http://images4-b.ravelrycache.com/uploads/havfaith/131641896/IMAG0221_medium2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://images4-b.ravelrycache.com/uploads/havfaith/131641896/IMAG0221_medium2.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
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Light and summery in both color <i>and </i>fiber content. =)<br />
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I've been in a much better mood this past week. Less work and more knitting... good for the soul! </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01259286721266608384noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5832871212150083587.post-49334300884628151392013-06-23T20:45:00.000-04:002013-06-23T20:45:32.846-04:00still slow... and not so steady<div style="text-align: center;">
It's taking me what seems like forever, but I <i>am </i>making progress on my sweater...</div>
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I now have the body and one sleeve done and have started on the second sleeve. Once I finish that second sleeve, I'll be able to put all the pieces on one needle and work the lacy yoke. There's an end in sight! =)</div>
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(<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/havfaith/113-17-jacket-with-raglan-sleeve-and-pattern-on-yoke-in-silke-alpaca">project details on Ravelry</a>)</div>
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Haven't played with the wheel yet at all, but I have been looking at spinning fibers online... </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01259286721266608384noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5832871212150083587.post-46726976821199693262013-06-14T11:45:00.001-04:002013-06-14T11:45:35.611-04:00dancing with the wheel...<div style="text-align: center;">
Since I'm guessing a lot of you don't know how a wheel like the one I got works (I didn't), I found a couple videos on YouTube of people using a walking wheel/great wheel similar to the one I found yesterday. It's like a dance:</div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/5D8vaa9TRqk?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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And another view:</div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/yrrJLAXwUBU?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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How very cool. =)</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01259286721266608384noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5832871212150083587.post-40708806353604482692013-06-14T00:39:00.001-04:002013-06-14T00:39:39.330-04:00well, just look at that!<div>
Look what happened to make its way into my life...<br />
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg81kVtUlhzi5vOXtQbSned2oLMlEkPfhtA2UvURSMv1fbnQ_JXqLByfGN4m1FTC77fjADGOaFzS33ZSGPXubVOHPN7vkqkSl73yCyPHktGTAxfgSuQQtFj7sE8kjK8_CkeMnYYcN1btdg/" /><br />
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She needs a little work (and a name), but she's a beauty! I'm told this is from the early 1800s but I haven't done any research. The price was right though and I don't mind adding a little elbow grease to get her back into fighting (spinning) shape. :-)</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01259286721266608384noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5832871212150083587.post-16420373874488128512013-06-02T18:36:00.001-04:002013-06-02T18:36:22.492-04:00slow and steady..<div>
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Nothing exciting yet, just lots more stockinette done...</div>
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I'm at about 10" right now and I have 3 buttonholes done so far. Getting close to having the body of the sweater done and being able to cast on and knit the sleeves before putting it all together and knitting the yoke. My friend had a BBQ last night and I brought along my sweater to work on. It was nice sitting outside chatting and knitting away. =) I need more of that...</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01259286721266608384noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5832871212150083587.post-37997642139714166392013-05-22T22:21:00.002-04:002013-05-22T22:21:25.081-04:00unseasonable...<div>
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It still needs to be blocked, but my shawl is done!</div>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaBLA2MMhJgHZ-6JEmxNQpx6jq2Cw3ggLkiR3pxcBDMKflCAVU9jiMP-Hns8sJYt_eiz1nROG6BOorASuNojPGK3k-yU-qbe-6z-Ayq4NsD3g90avgR_-9fPWh8yClNQrVqLRehiVfq4w/" /></div>
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(<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/havfaith/pipers-journey">Ravelry link for details</a>) </div>
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I even started a new sweater:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVs9iMpJ1c2rY2dRpHrmM4nkTrg1VHhGsTxGtDfCmVS1QiCwY5wsnwYYgggH6XxGwNugkjXV75RW1yC2o13WYHc4_PUegPLSyJ0PJiAD6mAGdp4T3R5O1pUv2eJBEJHFfs3Sbu3oFGMxo/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVs9iMpJ1c2rY2dRpHrmM4nkTrg1VHhGsTxGtDfCmVS1QiCwY5wsnwYYgggH6XxGwNugkjXV75RW1yC2o13WYHc4_PUegPLSyJ0PJiAD6mAGdp4T3R5O1pUv2eJBEJHFfs3Sbu3oFGMxo/" /></a></div>
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Yes, it's almost the end of May and I'm knitting in 100% wool. </div>
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(<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/havfaith/113-17-jacket-with-raglan-sleeve-and-pattern-on-yoke-in-silke-alpaca">Ravelry link for details</a>) </div>
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There's been entirely too much work in my world since last Fall and not nearly enough knitting. That's going to change! I'm taking back control over my time... expect more knitting! =)</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01259286721266608384noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5832871212150083587.post-10469037573409285802013-05-11T12:35:00.002-04:002013-05-11T12:35:30.716-04:00awwwwww...<div>
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My friend took her baby to get pictured taken and used the football outfit I made for him. She took a quick shot of him with her cell so I could see.</div>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRcQ8RRAGgSPDDv5g23f5HUaibesjYOntpjwRH-GLohRZRB7xs_Ne9OBQ_uCTBk8TXCaJrfSu96KmrYaBQrn2W5gdRHi45AWh8ei45ybzSFVKqkrdAFjCddNS3r1WDfClq4bX4o-ElIvI/" /></div>
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SO stinkin' cute!!</div>
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I've been working on another shawl:</div>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ6TVcO4cBf8hf6icJVBnuvTUhJp7jtkjvCtdkX4kyIvJd702f2gH9eFscUbYeegCUPf19V26umdisHbS9fGAJD3V7mfAwbDxdfj9eNs_A9DH-AtreMcj4Iwh-JvKcoGHGg2LYxbmFHuw/" /> </div>
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Yeah, shawls don't usually look like much until you finish and block them. I'm finishing up the garter section and will be starting the leaf border in the teal. I'm adding a few extra rows to the garter stitch section to use up the remainder of the 2nd ball of brown since the border will look fine with partial repeats. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvg5Gnmbg8JnbB0yEQ0q3qhTirdi1bIQa3XpA1_2kvNbfkeyApcZTpeTLAASg7LSgv8P89Vq2zN_Vl47qFKGKiEvNjQhHaiAPWQttZ0zL1F7O-BZS8FE5u7azX3KiLcJjv2fuXscvIbHY/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvg5Gnmbg8JnbB0yEQ0q3qhTirdi1bIQa3XpA1_2kvNbfkeyApcZTpeTLAASg7LSgv8P89Vq2zN_Vl47qFKGKiEvNjQhHaiAPWQttZ0zL1F7O-BZS8FE5u7azX3KiLcJjv2fuXscvIbHY/" /></a></div>
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Not much detail yet, but there will be once the border's on. =)</div>
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I still have another shawl on the needles, but life has been so busy and knitting time very limited the past couple months, I really wanted something "brainless" to work on. Can't get much more brainless than garter stitch! =)</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01259286721266608384noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5832871212150083587.post-9589032305769903112013-04-21T16:40:00.000-04:002013-04-21T16:40:10.581-04:00for the win!<div>
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Why is it when I have the least amount of time to knit... I have the best luck winning free yarn?</div>
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Back in Feb/March, podcaster Lauren of the <a href="http://lemknitcrochet.blogspot.com/">LemKnitCrochet podcast</a> had a fundraiser in an effort to increase awareness and raise money for <strong>The Histiocytosis Association </strong>in honor of her friend Josh who passed away from Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis.</div>
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/birdlegbags?ref=seller_info_count">Bird Leg Bags</a> was offering project bags in two different fabrics based on Josh's drawings with a portion of the cost being donated to Lauren's fundraiser. The purchaser also got an entry into Lauren's prize thread. One of the fabrics was this awesome turtle design:</div>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJVu4SK-P8GYnqTtjUOUtg6r2jfKPQdQRvhsqvA482YSEgt0Jav7-VvN7XzW1GFiGMl6T_BdpZvdJjQZ-VlH32JRQloK7iybXjZcEqJUn_Mn1uqlqylE0XVFu3hzhmlDfJCnXkdpEjIIk/" /> </div>
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How could I possibly pass that up? So, I caved and bought my very first <i>real </i>knitting project bag. I was playing catch-up recently on podcasts and, surprise! I won a skein of fingering weight yarn!! It's so pretty too! =) (Not the greatest pic, but it's raining here...)</div>
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I'm thinking of possibly using it with the skein of yarn I won from <a href="http://www.theknitgirllls.com/wordpress/">The Knit Girllls</a> podcast <a href="http://delusionsofdomesticity.blogspot.com/2013/01/update-on-not-so-much-knitting.html">back in January</a>:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE9pHBIjA46HsBYlNs4osJ2SKTU-3q4ArNfQcivOsO1m8_epP4i3BZOZ1E77TnihZuaRQIh_XsASw0FkBckGIsv7Tn9tSHS99036glJKgF_mX9QxZ1Z0WrgW8ei98DVetT4KpKTq6vBsg/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE9pHBIjA46HsBYlNs4osJ2SKTU-3q4ArNfQcivOsO1m8_epP4i3BZOZ1E77TnihZuaRQIh_XsASw0FkBckGIsv7Tn9tSHS99036glJKgF_mX9QxZ1Z0WrgW8ei98DVetT4KpKTq6vBsg/" /> </a></div>
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I was thinking of using them to knit up <a href="http://delusionsofdomesticity.blogspot.com/2013/01/my-crazy-paid-off.html">Piper's Journey shawl</a> that my friend gave me the pattern for back in January, but it's written for sport weight and I'm not sure I want it this bright. It's a shawl so I could just make a slightly smaller version or maybe adjust it a bit, but I'm not sure I'd have enough yarn... and I do have alpaca in my stash that would be pretty perfect and oh so cozy. I'll have to think about that one. I've also been thinking about a <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/leftie">Leftie</a> using the green above for the leaves and something more muted for the rest. I've looked at a lot of the finished projects and those are my favorites. If anyone has any suggestions of other patterns for the variegated pink/purple/reddish skein, I'm open to new ideas! It's got a bit of cashmere in it so no socks or toys. =)</div>
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I'm finally getting the baby gifts sent out to my manager who is now officially on maternity leave and due very, very soon. </div>
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<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfaHk7eqgZYaEelZmdZAyP4Q3msAKPKm1EHYIRGMWm5NGGwgrOHQs51IDbPmh511LMT0gR7a3X2pSB0piwLmNwYwuKqd7yCgYY4IXnT89qsie-RidvSopHz-IA24ODGaH_OiYvY6E0mhk/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfaHk7eqgZYaEelZmdZAyP4Q3msAKPKm1EHYIRGMWm5NGGwgrOHQs51IDbPmh511LMT0gR7a3X2pSB0piwLmNwYwuKqd7yCgYY4IXnT89qsie-RidvSopHz-IA24ODGaH_OiYvY6E0mhk/" /></a></div>
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I found this football Easter basket on clearance and thought it would make a great alternative to a gift bag... and cheaper than a gift bag too! =) </div>
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Yesterday, I took some <i>much-</i>needed time away from the computer and went to the Women's Show in Spokane with a couple friends. They were doing some cooking demos during the show and my friend volunteered me for the "tofu" demo. LOL That's me in the middle (yes, my friend snagged my phone from my bag and took a couple pics, lol):</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYPSfxd3eT2IIw36vHnSmYJpzWUbtONEjGGr-ZhnpEbwO1M7qMheQHoXovBJcV_AwFKpntQKUpHM351E2CFKtfXMb-AmfZxlmz5ZupKu5P6p_XX_aYra_q6kW1Y0klhQWcJdAzNxyFUn0/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYPSfxd3eT2IIw36vHnSmYJpzWUbtONEjGGr-ZhnpEbwO1M7qMheQHoXovBJcV_AwFKpntQKUpHM351E2CFKtfXMb-AmfZxlmz5ZupKu5P6p_XX_aYra_q6kW1Y0klhQWcJdAzNxyFUn0/" /> </a></div>
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The guy on the left (yes, in the <a href="http://www.utilikilts.com/">Utilikilt</a>) is "Tofu Phil" of Small Planet Organic Tofu. He also had on knee socks that said "Tofu" down each side. He's committed! =) All I did was chop a bell pepper and then cube a block of tofu, but it was fun and the salad we made was pretty yummy!</div>
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And since I was downtown, I checked out a little cafe (Boots Bakery & Lounge) with tons of vegan options, many were even gluten-free as well. =) I bought a couple of items to try later since one of my friends was adamant we not have dinner there. =( The two items I bought weren't amazing and my own recipes are better... and cheaper to make myself. Nice to have the option though and I do intend to give them another try for lunch sometime so I can try the real food there (vs the baked goods I tried). I really need to get moved out to the coast where the options aren't so limited... or such a pain to get to since parking downtown is a bit ridiculous.</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01259286721266608384noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5832871212150083587.post-35722293642903537862013-04-07T11:13:00.001-04:002013-04-07T11:13:38.849-04:00baby kicks<div style="text-align: center;">
And... baby gift #2 is now complete:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_Oqd_y3LHBVc35KBTxl6z7W-55_jeCAhEdQyIMGKrqIDZKruSxZTzxIvDz8UdmteG7RlAmNNUlPphGE35PRQuVwQDWfPljW5bPZF8fph1xqMvPAawkTSnziuAj3_iEJwxFMLSIBTlh04/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_Oqd_y3LHBVc35KBTxl6z7W-55_jeCAhEdQyIMGKrqIDZKruSxZTzxIvDz8UdmteG7RlAmNNUlPphGE35PRQuVwQDWfPljW5bPZF8fph1xqMvPAawkTSnziuAj3_iEJwxFMLSIBTlh04/" /></a></div>
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(<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/havfaith/converse-booties">Ravelry project page</a> for details)</div>
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This project also gave me a chance to play with a new toy:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVHq9GBF5vGFEXpdREZrm0X7aE-KIdLuQiGdsNo_YLuHnqzjWheoV1VQz_d1W-t1NOjQ7P3o0inF2GdZz5ie9K_jbriDYTDp7eI0FUc56OhyphenhyphenQ05WsNHDG99Dz-0RMALwmR_D_Y80badBw/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVHq9GBF5vGFEXpdREZrm0X7aE-KIdLuQiGdsNo_YLuHnqzjWheoV1VQz_d1W-t1NOjQ7P3o0inF2GdZz5ie9K_jbriDYTDp7eI0FUc56OhyphenhyphenQ05WsNHDG99Dz-0RMALwmR_D_Y80badBw/" /></a></div>
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It sure sped up knitting i-cord!<br />
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Gotta love those 50% off coupons for Jo Ann's! =) </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01259286721266608384noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5832871212150083587.post-79066071273543307722013-03-18T14:17:00.002-04:002013-03-18T14:17:38.602-04:00oh baby<div>
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<span style="color: black;">I finished up the first baby gift for my manager last night!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-U0-pkHrgaL1LqCyAClqYR4dIKv80GxsgVat64sCS51qx2uvyQwkSp9aro2nOjYxR8A17fv2aOEcC0QMAr35msAGoc791xMqqRQ-ADCyZQRBEJhMgfpjBgDTUFBNzeD5JgDCVxVa6ESw/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-U0-pkHrgaL1LqCyAClqYR4dIKv80GxsgVat64sCS51qx2uvyQwkSp9aro2nOjYxR8A17fv2aOEcC0QMAr35msAGoc791xMqqRQ-ADCyZQRBEJhMgfpjBgDTUFBNzeD5JgDCVxVa6ESw/" /></a></div>
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(<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/havfaith/football-fan-in-the-making">Ravelry project page</a>)</div>
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If/when I make another of these, I'll make a couple changes, but I think they turned out quite nicely. I just hope the bag is big enough. The baby is expected to be on the bigger size... I plan to write up my pattern notes soon. =)</div>
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And I started a pair of booties for him too:</div>
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(<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/havfaith/converse-booties">Ravelry project page</a>) </div>
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Baby stuff is so fun! =)</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01259286721266608384noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5832871212150083587.post-5107403444634032562013-03-11T11:30:00.001-04:002013-03-11T11:38:33.403-04:00what's this?<div>
Actual knitting?! Sure, it doesn't look like much now, but it's a start... and the first knitting I've done in nearly 2 months! Funny what having a bit of down time will do. :)<br />
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe5HqBBekGZbChilZ5oMlX1F41fecD-3_UuoAlozrgUWhyqcGDZZMIBwaqBFDD2l3-iwcYlzE6Zsg-MSin-jbZ8OVeco8YpZN-BcuWQjdqIyCu31vTn9VoBxvjpb2sCGTVOx4ipqpK68M/" /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01259286721266608384noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5832871212150083587.post-73723655161324495772013-01-27T14:13:00.002-05:002013-01-27T14:13:34.273-05:00update on... not so much knitting<div>
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<span style="color: black;">It's been two weeks and yet, there's been minimal knitting progress. Not enough to warrant a picture of the shawl. Yes, still working way too much OT and it's sucking my knitting mojo away. I do have one thing to share:</span></div>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM1PVlqf-RN6IXael5NEwdmt9Qi-tsSDWqHGaK_5ni5fkOAanjD5G6nP1LXXvo-L5Pff-DKRu4aOFwYQrttvmATZgV2SgL8C1MS6EqEIOLKEfqqan3fUX_fOqCKM9WTedk6lva_MHmPj4/" /> </div>
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This is the skein of yarn I won from TheKnitGirllls podcast along with a few goodies thrown in - two key chain mini skeins and a Lo-Lo Bar sample. If I ever finish that shawl, this will be a wash on the yarn - one in, one out. =) And I didn't buy it, so it doesn't count. lol</div>
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I'm in for at least one more week of lots of OT so it'll probably be a couple weeks before I post again. Maybe I'll have something <i>done </i>by then... =) </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01259286721266608384noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5832871212150083587.post-82109979644537503062013-01-13T17:01:00.001-05:002013-01-13T17:02:05.990-05:00on a winning streak!<div style="text-align: center;">
It's been slow going with the knitting this week... <i>really </i>slow.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/aworthyimage/8377019711/" title="Untitled by veggiechick74, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="282" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8219/8377019711_7017c1b6d6.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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Yep, that orange stitch marker is where I was <i>last Sunday</i>. Most of that (minimal) progress was made last night after finishing up another 80-hr work week. Ugh, I'm so over the OT. My rv payments have been made well in advance, my savings account is healthy... the drive to work more is <i>greatly</i> diminished. lol I won't be doing that again anytime soon. I've offered to still put in some overtime this week, but it won't be anywhere near what I've been doing. Hello, knitting time! =)<br />
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While working all those hours, I've been keeping up on all the knitting podcasts I like to watch/listen to and even checked out a few new ones. Podcasts keep me sane while working through all those charts! I watched the latest podcast from <a href="http://www.theknitgirllls.com/wordpress/">TheKnitGirllls</a> and... <i>I won yarn</i>! Very pretty green yarn. =) They had a contest thread to enter items knit in December using old stash yarn. I posted <a href="http://delusionsofdomesticity.blogspot.com/2012/12/a-day-late.html">the cowl I knit for my mom for Christmas</a> since the yarn was from<i> 2008</i>. I'll post a pic of the skein when it gets here. And no, this doesn't break my plan to cold sheep this year! lol I didn't buy it, it doesn't count! My friend also has offered to buy me a skein of yarn from a LYS for my birthday. I'm thinking I might get fiber instead though since I really think I'll be ordering an espinner soon!<br />
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Speaking of spinning... I found an interesting podcast this week - Vegan Eco Fibrecast. Sorry, I haven't been able to find it online so I can't link to it. Sadly, there are only a handful of episodes and the latest was posted last June. It was an interesting listen though. The podcaster discussed her experiences spinning with different plant fibers as well as some of the reasons she doesn't use animal fibers. I'd really like to get away from using so much (if any) animal fibers in the future unless I know specifically where it comes from and that the animals were treated well. That pretty much knocks out any commercial yarn purchases. I've had this plan in the past, but have stumbled when I came across a deal<i> too good to pass up</i>. This year of not buying will help break that bad habit of mine. I don't plan to ditch the wool/alpaca/silk that's already in my stash, but I feel I have the responsibility to make more conscientious purchases in all areas of my life. How fun would it be to learn to spin with plant fibers though?! =)<br />
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I also received a free pattern this week. A mitten pattern was designed to match <a href="http://delusionsofdomesticity.blogspot.com/2013/01/my-crazy-paid-off.html">the hat I posted last week</a> and because I took part in that KAL, the designed gifted me the pattern for the mittens. =)<br />
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<a href="http://images4-b.ravelrycache.com/uploads/NurseApps22/139872827/Intersect1_medium.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="240" src="http://images4-b.ravelrycache.com/uploads/NurseApps22/139872827/Intersect1_medium.jpg" title="Intersecting Mittens by Stephanie Apps" width="320" /></a></div>
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I think I'll knit up a pair with the remainder of the acrylic I used on that last hat so I'll have a set to add to my giftable knit items. The pattern for the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/intersecting-mittens">Intersecting Mittens</a> is available on Ravelry.<br />
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Hopefully, I'll have more knitting progress next weekend! =)</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01259286721266608384noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5832871212150083587.post-58818072977798166112013-01-06T16:48:00.001-05:002013-01-06T16:49:58.222-05:00crazy payoff!<div style="text-align: center;">
I watch a lot of podcasts these days and one of my new favorites is <a href="http://thefatsquirrel.com/">The Fat Squirrel Speaks</a>. If you're up for some fibery fun, you should definitely go check her out. She's hilarious! Really. Go! I'll be here when you get back... =)</div>
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Over the holiday season, Amy Beth (of the above podcast) had a contest in her group on Ravelry for everyone to post their crazy. Mine? Knitting way too many things for Christmas! She did the drawing and guess what? I won an ebook! Such cute patterns too. <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/sources/cloudy-apples/patterns">This is the ebook I won</a>:</div>
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<a href="http://images4-b.ravelrycache.com/uploads/JenACKnitwear/121142257/0003333677_small_best_fit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://images4-b.ravelrycache.com/uploads/JenACKnitwear/121142257/0003333677_small_best_fit.jpg" title="Cloudy Apples ebook" /></a></div>
I think that hat on the right will be the first one I try. Love it!</div>
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I also was gifted a pattern from a friend for my birthday! Aren't I the lucky girl?! I've seen this shawl (<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/pipers-journey">Piper's Journey</a>) on a few podcasts and <i>love </i>it. I'd planned to buy the pattern when I was ready to start it so had it in my queue. =) Isn't it pretty?</div>
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<a href="http://images4-b.ravelrycache.com/uploads/PrairiePiper/92509692/Pipers_journey_Quince4_medium2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="320" src="http://images4-b.ravelrycache.com/uploads/PrairiePiper/92509692/Pipers_journey_Quince4_medium2.jpg" title="Piper's Journey by Paula Emons-Fuessle" width="213" /></a></div>
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I've seen this done in two colors and love the effect! The garter will be nice and relaxing and that lace edging is just enough detail to keep it interesting. This might end up being the year of the shawl for me. =)</div>
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Speaking if shawls, I've started on the shawl I'm testknitting but all this overtime at work is <i>killing </i>any knitting progress! It's just far enough along to start showing the pattern well when stretched out, but it's still so tiny!</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/aworthyimage/8354461345/" title="stars of a shael by veggiechick74, on Flickr"><img alt="" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8367/8354461345_a5010aec91.jpg" title="Farbenfroh" width="282" /></a></div>
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It's difficult to stretch it out and take a photo. I promise a good shot when it's completed and blocked. =)<br />
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I did finish the hat I posted last week:<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/aworthyimage/8331101847/" title="Untitled by veggiechick74, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8496/8331101847_e1a3f327c1.jpg" width="330" /></a><br />
Not a great pic, but it was dark already when I finished it up on New Year's Eve and had to take a shot to post for the KAL. =)<br />
(<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/havfaith/intersections-break-2">project details on Ravelry</a>)<br />
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Want a peek at some of what I plan to use use up this year?</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/aworthyimage/8322697930/" title="Untitled by veggiechick74, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="282" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8215/8322697930_31c23bd62f.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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The fingering weight yarn on top is what I'm using for the current shawl. The oatmeal color yarn underneath is destined to become a sweater, though I don't yet know which pattern. The cream wool on the left will become a <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/sheep-hat-3">sheep hat</a>:<br />
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<a href="http://images4-b.ravelrycache.com/uploads/reneedles/58395192/61SheepHat_00014_medium2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="320" src="http://images4-b.ravelrycache.com/uploads/reneedles/58395192/61SheepHat_00014_medium2.jpg" title="Sheep Hat by Renee Lorion" width="239" /></a></div>
Isn't that adorable?? I plan to dye some of the skein green for the grassy part. No new yarns, remember? =) I also have a bag of baby-appropriate yarns:</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/aworthyimage/8322696214/" title="Untitled by veggiechick74, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="282" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8504/8322696214_99c64dda7c.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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Mostly cotton and cotton blends with just a two small skeins of acrylic.<br />
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And I just had to share my little goofball:<br />
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Reilly's a good distraction from all the paid work! =) </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01259286721266608384noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5832871212150083587.post-19618479277837498322013-01-01T21:51:00.002-05:002013-01-01T21:51:35.880-05:00Happy new year! =)<div style="text-align: center;">
I hope you all had a safe and happy new year! Mine was quiet... just as I like it. =) Do you have any big plans for the new year? Mine are pretty similar to what I've planned in past years. 2012 brought about some big changes for me. I went from living in a nearly 1000sqft mobile home to living in under 200sqft in an rv. I made a trip to OR for work and was able to hang out there for awhile after. Not sure how much travel I'll be doing for work in the new year, but it's still a possibility. I do have some plans for this year though:</div>
<ul>
<li><b>Use the stash! </b>Yes, I'm trying to go cold sheep in 2013. I have entirely <i>too </i>many skeins of yarn stashed in my rv at the moment. Some are for specific projects, others are leftovers from projects past, but there are too many just picked up because they were pretty or "too good a deal to pass up"... Yes, falling into old habits and it's out of hand. So the goal for the new year is to only knit/crochet from stash. </li>
<li><b>Plan ahead!</b> I knit <i>way </i>too many items in too short a time this past holiday season and that's just crazy. Although... my crazy <i>did </i>win me a knitting ebook yesterday! =) (More about that in my weekend crafty post.) This coming year though, I plan to knit/crochet/sew at least one gift each month and stash them away so next holiday season, I can knit for me if I want and relax more. =D</li>
<li><b>Unprocess my diet!</b> Meaning, get rid of as much processed junk from my diet as possible. I went vegan awhile back and though I do eat a vegan diet, I haven't been making the <i>healthiest</i> choices... by far. The great thing about being in a small space... I don't have a lot of food on hand so making a change is fairly instant. lol I'll be avoiding over-processed foods and choose whole foods and organics whenever possible... I'll be cooking a lot more! =)</li>
<li><b>Be a more responsible consumer!</b> I've made strides in this area already, but I need to really make a better effort in supporting things I believe in with how I spend my money. I've been buying too much commercially produced yarns, too many foods with excessive packaging, being too wasteful.I can't change the whole world, but I can make a small difference by choosing greener items for myself... or just not buying at all. =)</li>
<li><b>Decrease debt!</b> *sigh* I wish I could say, <i>eliminate </i>debt, but I still owe too much on my rv to make paying it off completely this year a real possibility. I did make another large payment yesterday and finished 2012 having made <i>all </i>my payments due in 2013. Yes, I'm a dork. I made a special trip to the bank yesterday just so I could see that my next payment wasn't due until 2014 before 2012 was done. lol</li>
<li><b>Keep clutter in check! </b>I'm instituting a <i>one in, one out</i> rule. This is a very small space and gets cluttered very quickly. Bringing things in without something going out turns into a problem <i>really </i>fast. This will keep things even, though I do need to go through things and see what can go in addition to just replacement items.</li>
<li><b>Travel more for me!</b> I've done a lot of traveling over the past 5 years, going wherever work told me to... but I'd really like to travel more for myself while I have the rv. I have the opportunity, now I'm just waiting for better weather. lol I stayed here in Spokane too long and winter is upon us bringing not so great roads to be on with such a big vehicle. It's been good for the bank account being able to save a couple hundred dollars a month here at my friend's place, but I think next year, I'll head south!</li>
<li><b>Keep up the tiny house fund! </b>The rv is good for now, but not my ideal. I still want that tiny home and have proven to myself that I can easily live in such a small space. Building my own would allow me to design it to suit my own needs, better than an rv designed for recreation. I've discovered I don't crave the constant mobility an rv offers, but rather the ability to move occasionally if I so choose. It will happen... hopefully sooner rather than later!</li>
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I've been doing a lot of thinking about who I want to be and doing some soul-searching to discover where I am now and how that relates to what I want in my life. I've made a lot of good changes (and had plenty of slip-ups along the way) and gotten closer to my goals, but life is a journey and there's always room for improvement! =)</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01259286721266608384noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5832871212150083587.post-67329447115201607652012-12-30T23:20:00.000-05:002012-12-30T23:20:20.189-05:00Hope you had a very merry Christmas!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/aworthyimage/8309972206/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Untitled by veggiechick74, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8074/8309972206_88cdb771ef.jpg" width="369" /></a></div>
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I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas! =)<br />
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It was another week of working a lot and knitting very little. I did cast on for a hat this week for a knit-a-long and I'm nearly finished:</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/aworthyimage/8328683318/" title="Untitled by veggiechick74, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="282" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8491/8328683318_88aab28d4b.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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Could have been done days ago, but after work, I've been choosing my pillow over the needles. Hard to believe that I was working 14-hr days on a regular basis this time last year with two full-time jobs. Guess I'm getting old... lol <br />
(<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/havfaith/intersections-break-2">project details on Ravelry</a>)<br />
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Oh! I did finish the pair of slippers for my friend in time for Christmas:<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/aworthyimage/8304969970/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="last handknit for Christmas! by veggiechick74, on Flickr"><img alt="last handknit for Christmas!" height="352" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8494/8304969970_f7bac0e971.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
Not sure they went over that well, but they <i>were </i>done in time at least. I'm determined to finish up these skeins of acrylic if it kills me. lol <br />
(<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/havfaith/side-cable-slippers-2">project details on Ravelry</a>)<br />
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I did take Christmas off and spent the day with my friend's family. We opened gifts in the morning then headed to her husband's parents place in northern Idaho for the afternoon/evening. I wish I could say it was drama-free, but it was much more like being with my own crazy family than I'd have preferred. The holidays seem to bring out the best and, sadly, the worst in people. At least this wasn't <i>my </i>family drama and Reilly got to have some fun!<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/aworthyimage/8309950450/" title="Untitled by veggiechick74, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="282" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8074/8309950450_80451bae74.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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This was just before he let loose with a barrage of barks letting those deer know <i>he </i>was in charge... or at least <i>thought </i>he was. heh Not sure what he would've done had there not been a window in between him and those 10 deer! These were young... maybe most will be pulling Santa's sleigh next year? =)</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01259286721266608384noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5832871212150083587.post-17769788887075008272012-12-23T18:50:00.000-05:002012-12-23T18:54:58.564-05:00HO, HO, HO<div style="text-align: center;">
Well, maybe just HO. =)</div>
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What have I done this week? Other than lots of OT for work, not a heck of a lot. I do have one HO (half-finished object):</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/aworthyimage/8300844061/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Untitled by veggiechick74, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="282" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8212/8300844061_ac966d00ce.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
The first of a pair of slippers for my friend. These are made with 3 strands of worsted weight yarn held together so they're quick... quick enough to actually be completed for Christmas morning. lol This is my second pair from this pattern - <a href="http://delusionsofdomesticity.blogspot.com/2008/11/catching-up.html">the first having been knit several years ago for my mom</a>. This pair is being made from acrylic so they'll be easily washable, but and I can honestly say, I much prefer the wool version. I knit the first up Friday night after a long work day and plan to do #2 later tonight... plenty of time! =)<br />
(<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/havfaith/side-cable-slippers-2">yarn & pattern details on my Ravelry project page</a>)<br />
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I did start <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/havfaith/garter-cable-wristlets">a pair of fingerless mitts</a> for her too, but the yarn choice was an unfortunate one. I'd picked up some inexpensive sport weight yarn from Big Lots (In the Loop) with the intention of make a few knitted Christmas ball ornaments. The deep red would have gone nicely with her off-white coat, but the yarn was crap. Not only did it knot up like that was it's job, but the yarn broke while I was trying to untangle it... then I discovered the yarn stained my bamboo needles after only a few rows. grr The yarn went back to the store. I swear, the more I've used it, the less I like <i>any </i>acrylic. I'm okay with acrylic blends, but straight acrylic? I'll be avoiding that in the future! Life is too short to knit with crap yarn. I'll be sticking to natural fibers from here out. I have a few acrylic skeins left in my stash, but no more will be coming in! :-/ Yep, I'm a yarn snob...<br />
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This past Tuesday, I was gifted a couple of patterns by designer Kimberly Gintar of The Giving Flower podcast in memory of podcaster Karrie Steinmetz who recently passed away. I received her <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/the-melting-snowman">Melting Snowman</a> and <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/shawn-the-shelf-elf">Shawn the Shelf Elf</a>. My friend collects snowmen and I plan to make the melting snowman for her once I have some actual free time again. lol I think I might need to make the elf for my sister's kids for next year though they might be getting too old for that. I picked up white and black fingering weight yarn and buttons yesterday for the snowman, but I wasn't able to find anything for the elf's skin. I might just end up with a really <i>tanned </i>elf! =) More likely though, I'll dye up a bit of my own...<br />
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Oh! My niece is officially "knit-worthy"!!!<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/aworthyimage/8299425720/" title="Untitled by veggiechick74, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8073/8299425720_6bbd20c626.jpg" width="299" /></a>
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I hear she LOVES <a href="http://delusionsofdomesticity.blogspot.com/2012/12/another-week-four-more-hats.html">her hat</a>! No word on any of the others I sent, but at least one is being appropriately appreciated. =)<br />
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This OT hasn't been great for my knitting, but it has been great for the bank account! I had some OT on my last check and was happily able to make a double payment on my rv loan and even put some money in my savings account as well. =) The plan was to get my loan paid up at least through Spring when work tends to get a little (or a lot) slow and I'm now paid up until AUGUST! =D</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01259286721266608384noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5832871212150083587.post-83209855325722059182012-12-19T14:06:00.001-05:002012-12-19T14:06:28.239-05:00save on shipping!<div style="text-align: center;">
I tend to think everyone knows about this already, but I discovered this week that that isn't so. It's a little late for holiday shipping for this year, but good info to have for later! </div>
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If you go to <a href="https://www.usps.com/">the post office's official website</a>, you can set up an account and print your own postage. The advantage? <i>No lines!</i> Oh, and you save some money too. =) I have a small digital scale and can weigh my packages, but if you use the flat rate priority boxes (free from the post office), you don't even need the scale. I used to keep a few boxes on hand when I had more space. I shipped 4 packages Monday and 3 of the 4 were cheaper to ship flat rate than by weight - it doesn't take much to add up! When printing the postage online, they give you a small discount (up to 15%) on shipping and they also give you free delivery confirmation (a savings of $.75 per package). The best part? You can also schedule a pick-up and you won't even have to go to the post office to drop them off no matter how big the package or how many you have. The only down side is that you can't print first class postage on the site. I have heard you <i>can </i>print these through PayPal's website though so if you're mailing lighter items, be sure and check that out!</div>
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The other alternative? If you're not making the gifts yourself, purchase gifts from companies that offer free shipping (gotta love Amazon!) and have the item sent directly to the recipient. No, you won't be able to wrap it yourself, but a lot of companies offer gift-wrapping services now. Amazon has been offering a lot of $5 credits lately too so keep an eye out for those! I purchased an item for $25, got free shipping and used my $5 credit so it only cost $20 + tax shipped. Not a bad deal!</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01259286721266608384noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5832871212150083587.post-49938296378215412172012-12-16T19:03:00.000-05:002012-12-16T19:03:03.752-05:00little time for yarny fun<div style="text-align: center;">
You're expecting a lot, aren't you? I know I was! After the past couple weeks, I expected at least a <i>couple</i> finished objects, but that was not to be. Why? One word... <i>overtime.</i> Yes, it's that time of year. It seems to always hit around the holidays and it hit hard this week. I'm thankful for the opportunity to earn a bigger paycheck especially with the slow time of year quickly approaching, but 12-hr work days sure do cut into the knitting time! =)</div>
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I stayed up late last night and I <i>did </i>finish this:</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/aworthyimage/8278724468/" title="Untitled by veggiechick74, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="361" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8354/8278724468_e0496db49c.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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That's the last hat that needed to go into the mail for Christmas! =) I finally settled on a pattern for this hat. I've made this pattern once before and really liked it <a href="http://delusionsofdomesticity.blogspot.com/2011/02/pay-it-forward.html">the first time around</a>. I really like it in this less-contrasting color combo as well and can definitely see knitting this up again in the future. This one turned out a bit large. I'm usually a tight knitter, but apparently I knit more loosely in acrylic... no time to reknit it so I'll just include a note for him to let me know if it's too big and I'll make another out of the leftovers.</div>
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(<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/havfaith/turn-a-square-2">pattern and yarn details on my Ravelry project page</a>)</div>
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I started this:<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/aworthyimage/8277724363/" title="Untitled by veggiechick74, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="449" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8061/8277724363_7ac2a32511.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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a few days ago, then switched to the hat since it had to go in the mail. This should be a wide headband by now... but it's not. The original pattern is written for bulky yarn, but it came out super wide in that and I switched to fingering weight yarn held double - much better! I don't really like how the increases look on the right though. Yes, this part will be under her hair, but still. With all the OT, I'm doubtful this will be finished for Christmas anyway, so I'm thinking of frogging it and starting over. Good thing I have something else for this kid! =)<br />
(<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/havfaith/blue-leaf-headband">yarn and pattern details on my Ravelry project page</a>)<br />
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I've spent a lot of time working the past several days, but I did take a break Friday night for a Christmas party. I can't believe Christmas is so close! Everything is going in the mail tomorrow, but I still have a project in the beginning stages that I haven't had a chance to work on much and still need to make something for my friend who's letting me park in her yard... the same friend who decided I needed to finish up one of <i>her</i> intended Christmas presents and finally handed it to me as I walked out the door yesterday so now it's in my rv. *sigh* I can't say I have <i>any </i>urge to work on it though. I'd rather rip it out and start fresh rather than try to fix what's already done, but as long as the OT holds out, I'll barely have time to mess with it at all if I want to finish my <i>own </i>projects.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/aworthyimage/8278550953/" title="fixable? by veggiechick74, on Flickr"><img alt="fixable?" height="322" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8357/8278550953_24be7ab550.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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I think she'd maybe be more understanding if she had a job, but she seems to think everyone has as much down time as she does. She might just be getting a ball of yarn and an IOU for <i>her </i>gift this year so I can finish that blanket for her. lol</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01259286721266608384noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5832871212150083587.post-20622965752633314552012-12-12T18:48:00.000-05:002012-12-13T15:20:01.371-05:00getting a yarny (or other crafty) deal...<div style="text-align: center;">
Yes, still knitting away, but I wanted to share something I've figured out recently...</div>
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Jo Ann Fabric has been putting out a lot of good coupons lately and it used to be, you were limited to using one 40% (or 50% or whatever) off coupon per purchase. Not anymore! Last time I was in there, I bought 4 items that were not on sale and got 50% off on each... just wish I'd figured this out when they had the 60% off coupon!</div>
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Here's how:</div>
<ol>
<li>Use the paper coupon from the ad flyer.</li>
<li>Sign up for the emails from Jo Ann's and you'll get coupons in your inbox - print those.</li>
<li>Go back to that email and click "send to phone" - this will come as a text message and has a different number on it than the one you printed above.</li>
<li>Download the Jo Ann Fabric app on your smartphone and log in with your email then go to "coupons" and pull up the current coupon - this will have yet a different number on it.</li>
</ol>
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Now you have <i>four </i>coupons - two digital, two on paper. Jo Ann's will let you use as many coupons as you have on the same order (one per non-sale-priced-item, of course) as long as they have different numbers below the scan bar. This is a great way to buy multiples of, say, yarn in the same dye lot that's not currently on sale or just multiple skeins of the same type of yarn for a colorwork project in just one trip. =) I got four skeins for a sweater, all at 50% off and saved about $22.</div>
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Now, you know too. =)</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01259286721266608384noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5832871212150083587.post-44770919777676408372012-12-10T22:30:00.000-05:002012-12-10T22:32:04.912-05:00a day late... with more FOs!<div style="text-align: center;">
I've been trying to stick to posting once a week on Sundays, but I didn't have a pic of the project I finished yesterday so you had to wait. =) Still working on Christmas projects, but there is a light at the end of the tunnel! This weekend, I finished up two more projects.</div>
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First up:<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/aworthyimage/8259465634/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Untitled by veggiechick74, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="413" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8077/8259465634_99d77f859f.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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A cowl for my mother. I bought <a href="http://delusionsofdomesticity.blogspot.com/2008/11/new-on-needles.html">the yarn for this four years ago</a> while working in Seattle, but then my mother actually requested something and it did not fit with this yarn. At long last, she's getting it this year... and it's <i>out of my stash</i>! It's a nice, cushy, long cowl that can be looped around twice for a snugger fit. She loves purple so I'm hoping she likes this. =)<br />
(<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/havfaith/honey-cowl">pattern & yarn details on my Ravelry project page</a>)<br />
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And, no surprise:<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/aworthyimage/8261874537/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Untitled by veggiechick74, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="432" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8341/8261874537_36c7efb7df.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
Another hat! I still have one more to go for Christmas but am having a hard time settling on a pattern. lol<br />
(<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/havfaith/man-thing">pattern and yarn details on my Ravelry project page</a>)<br />
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Here's the stack heading to my sister's for Christmas:<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/aworthyimage/8261881667/" title="Untitled by veggiechick74, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="403" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8359/8261881667_2f19850f6a.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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Not too bad, huh? I do need to do a quick blocking on the two wool hats, but otherwise everything is ready to ship which is <i>really </i>good news since in this small of a space, three boxes of gifts <i>really </i>cuts down on the already limited free space around here! =)<br />
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Next week, you should get to see my last two planned projects... one more hat and a headband. There might even be a third, though I haven't yet decided on what that will be. lol </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01259286721266608384noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5832871212150083587.post-46046345321292488962012-12-02T18:19:00.003-05:002012-12-02T18:42:27.979-05:00another week... FOUR more hats!<div align="center">
Yep, still knitting away!</div>
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I continued my knitting by knitting a slouchy hat for my niece:</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/aworthyimage/8225148668/" title="Christmas knit #3 - done! by veggiechick74, on Flickr"><img alt="Christmas knit #3 - done!" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8482/8225148668_4ff3066596.jpg" width="456" /></a><br />
I used some more of my overdyed yarn. It still needs to be blocked, but from what I hear, she really likes hats so it should be a hit, esp in her favorite colors!<br />
(<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/havfaith/etta">details on my Ravelry project page</a>)<br />
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Then I knit up a hat for my middle nephew:</div>
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<img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs0n9lVSF4-gwnDJz3NSS8x47UEf7BVAUBGbdU8aPrmFZ83kAOarx913GWr8WPaKVbL0GdfJ6uEMPZEZkmV3hPV_0m25PzYh5Uv558vAwGpGGntIsQlBk1YS7Z9jWiyLm4-uvSccmvqGY/s320/Philip+hat+2.jpg" width="180" /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLAIzu2OuzwQn8ndvdx5BCK4pbxlOQRe4ErwJlccBLmRJRir7ZI8ADBO0kSXGmTneNvPZ_vs_ArTKx_H8n9lux4_6eGoYOiR5Isfjkql-0vTtaQbpiUlBHfMvprE-cBP8RzDjlzankbn4/s1600/Philip+hat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLAIzu2OuzwQn8ndvdx5BCK4pbxlOQRe4ErwJlccBLmRJRir7ZI8ADBO0kSXGmTneNvPZ_vs_ArTKx_H8n9lux4_6eGoYOiR5Isfjkql-0vTtaQbpiUlBHfMvprE-cBP8RzDjlzankbn4/s320/Philip+hat.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
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(<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/havfaith/intersections-break">details on my Ravelry project page</a>)</div>
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My friend wanted a hat for a friend's baby shower, so I knit this quick one up:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYnuOg_u5Wp9GlLMY_nAtyLsSxxYps4Zd-OMoYVFQoZ3wgh4JfiBaqmx2n062-SZFXR-S0VdhfbSOmJP46AZr8qiZldKuj6HYiH2VbfzHowfePugcKDkN0FceMk-t6Yu993F96KEGeTVQ/s1600/baby+hat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYnuOg_u5Wp9GlLMY_nAtyLsSxxYps4Zd-OMoYVFQoZ3wgh4JfiBaqmx2n062-SZFXR-S0VdhfbSOmJP46AZr8qiZldKuj6HYiH2VbfzHowfePugcKDkN0FceMk-t6Yu993F96KEGeTVQ/s320/baby+hat.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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It was an owl pattern, but after getting the eyes and tassels on, I think it looks more like a monster so I skipped adding the beak.</div>
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(<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/havfaith/baby-owl-hat">details on my Ravelry project page</a>)</div>
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Then back to Christmas knitting with a hat for my brother-in-law:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDrew-p5hyGEg3e2_at1RL5jrdUeRs9_x0_RLO24JDsvcn8MImdjB9PNo9_9VX3dcp2AcsbfdIXawT473hmwnP0VSePZeGIDLA7as9zasgdXjT_eNwTQFCzpmL5HaSoctgA0NuL4NBlws/s1600/scot+hat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDrew-p5hyGEg3e2_at1RL5jrdUeRs9_x0_RLO24JDsvcn8MImdjB9PNo9_9VX3dcp2AcsbfdIXawT473hmwnP0VSePZeGIDLA7as9zasgdXjT_eNwTQFCzpmL5HaSoctgA0NuL4NBlws/s320/scot+hat.jpg" width="180" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgunJ2qtXtObGB1ZiIUlHnYoUpfn_z-XT1Z0v88b4PEvjcDC2oDEGe09X1mT80ZlLiklrwxHZdO2aNhWzJxvPm_OyN8kRBORUkBl6HQ33kPy2Rfhxu54AplDQezVFyHptOSHS9xTQf7mCM/s1600/scot+hat+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgunJ2qtXtObGB1ZiIUlHnYoUpfn_z-XT1Z0v88b4PEvjcDC2oDEGe09X1mT80ZlLiklrwxHZdO2aNhWzJxvPm_OyN8kRBORUkBl6HQ33kPy2Rfhxu54AplDQezVFyHptOSHS9xTQf7mCM/s320/scot+hat+2.jpg" width="296" /></a></div>
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I figured I should go as basic as possible for his or he wouldn't wear it. </div>
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(<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/havfaith/a-hat-fit-for-a-boyfriend">details on my Ravelry project page</a>)</div>
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I can see the end in sight! Only two more nephews to go and the family is done. =) I'm planning a cowl for my mother and that's the last one that needs to be mailed. I'd originally knit a hat for my friend and was planning ones for her family, but was informed yesterday that none of them wear hats... So, the hat for her is going to my sister. I might end up making her a cowl and possibly a headband or something for her daughter. I'll have to figure out something else for the guys. I'm truly at the point that I don't ever want to go to another store though! It's online shopping <em>all the way</em> from here.</div>
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I did have to go back to Jo Ann's for thread for a sewing project and since I had a few 60% off coupons, I finally picked up needle felting supplies: </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/aworthyimage/8238675109/" title="Untitled by veggiechick74, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8485/8238675109_9a11c6dbff.jpg" width="282" /></a><br />
=) The little packages of roving are way too expensive, but with the coupon, now SO bad. I have some roving I picked up at a wool fest but it's all in storage. This will work for now.<br />
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And now... back to knitting!</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01259286721266608384noreply@blogger.com0