The Wheezing Monkey

Knitting 2011

2011-11-22T16:29:00.000-08:00

So I am not a very good blogger. Terrible, really. But I wanted to show that although I haven't been blogging I have been knitting! At least a little.

Meet Edgar Rhombus

2011-02-22T21:31:00.000-08:00

Meet Edgar Rhombus

Rhombus: A parallelogram with four equal sides; an oblique-angled equilateral parallelogram. A diamond.

…and this is how Edgar Rhombus was born, as a diamond. This rhombus shaped scarf was a fun quick project. A variegated yarn with multi-color is a must. You need to be able to see each color form as you go. I use a left over piece of Lion’s Brand Amazing yarn. I did not have a complete skein, so I knitted until I could not knit anymore. The end result a short scarf-ette or long neck warmer with pretty colors.

And now for something completely different……………………………….

I Heart Seaweed

2011-02-15T10:12:00.000-08:00

SEAWEED……the mere mention of the word brings images of bright green alien like floating tentacles happily greeting passersby at dim sum. Mmmm, it makes me hungry just thinking about it.

I instantly became fond of The Seaweed Scarf pattern by the simple nature of its organic name…seaweed and the patterns lovely flowing ruffles. I had this pattern on my list of things I would like to knit for over a year, just waiting for the right moment. I needed inspiration and to pony up the whopping $7.00 for the pattern. Then like a chocolate bon bon with an unexpected wonderful creamy coconut center, VOILA! I received THE yarn.

A beauty of skein of Malabrigo yarn in colorway hummingbird. The color is a blend of different shades of both green and purple. Knitted up, it looks like a crazy mix of seaweed, I just love it. This lovely yarn found me by way of my Ravelry friend Anniepurl who sent it to me as part of a Halloween swap in 2010.

The Seaweed scarf/shawlette pattern turned out to be a very enjoyable project. I couldn’t put it down. It knitted up much faster than I expected, which added to my satisfaction. The pattern itself is fairly simple little triangular shawl, but the beautiful little ruffle detail is awesome. The best part was that I learned a new bind off method. The bind off was something new and exciting that I had never done before and once finished it gave the Seaweed scarf/shawlette the beautiful finished detail.

Things I would modify
I would love to make the scarf/shawlette bigger, into an actual full size shawl. For this project I just didn’t have enough yarn to play with, otherwise I would have made it much bigger. I even thought about making the ruffle longer but did not want to risk running out of yarn due to miscalculations or ruining the ruffled pattern finish.

All in all Seaweed is fun to eat and create!

My Quest for Fingerless Mittens

2011-02-05T20:29:00.000-08:00

Fingerless mittens……ah, something I always wanted to make but felt so intimated by the use of DPN’s, thus why I have yet to make socks. This winter I finally pushed myself and made a set of fingerless mittens and guess what? It wasn’t so bad after all.

The pattern: Alice’s Mitts by Emily Nimz (Free download on Ravelry)
The needles: US 8 DPN’s
The Yarn: About 100 to 120 yards of worsted weight yarn. In my case I used a leftover yarn from a previous project, Patons Classic Wool in Leaf Green.

This was an easy pattern, which I picked on purpose. I was not going to allow my first attempt at fingerless mitten to kill my ego by adding beautiful and sometimes complicated cables and lace patterns. No, instead this turned out to be wonderful mindless knitting in front of the teletube, this I did like.

The original pattern had a slit for the thumb opening. I wasn’t too keen on the slit, so I did a little homework and made some changes.

What I did Change:
So, instead of a thumb slit. I added an actual thumb hole.
I placed 4 sts on st holder and CO 4 additional sts using backward loop method continued knitting the pattern as indicated.
• Returned to the 4 sts.
• Picked up an additional 8 sts around the hole.
• Knitted for about 1 inch (I kept trying it on).
• The BO.

This modification was very easy and the result, was a lovely thumb hole.

Now completed, I love it. One thing I did notice is that one size does not fit all. I apparently have very skinny little hands.

What I would Change
For the ribbing I would use a smaller size needle to obtain a tighter fit around my wrist and fingers.

Creepy Creatures

2010-09-08T18:54:00.000-07:00

Since I can remember, the day after Labor has always been the first sign that summer is officially over. Although in Southern California heat waves can continue well into the first week of October, deep down you know summer is gone. Nevertheless, its always been a marker for the beginning of a new season. Yesterday morning was the perfect beginning to autumn. The grey cloudy sky was a silent friend greeting me at my door as I left home to go to work today. This is the best kind of weather for me. A little gloomy weather without the madness of rain and listening to NPR. It was a great day.

Halloween is creeping upon us. The weather is a changing. The weather is a little crispier, the trees and other foliage are changing color, and the wind is picking up every so slightly bringing with it a ting of mystery. I love it. This is my most favorite time of year. It lends itself to knit/crochet, sew, craft and of course baking. Ah, baking that which bring in wonderful smells of cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves to ones home. This being my muse, I was inspired to make a few little additions to our household.

Amigurumi is the Japanese art of crocheting cute little creations made of a little yarn, felt, plastic doll eyes, stuffing and a whole lot of love. Amigurumis are usually super cute little bunnies, cuddly bears and adorable kittens. I, however, am particularly inclined to make out of the ordinary little creatures. It is for this reason that I love the book by designer Christen Haden, “Creepy Cute Crochet: Zombies, Ninjas, Robots and more”. This book is full of fun and unique amigurumis. Who said the Grim Reaper wasn’t cute. The thing I love about these little creature creations is that you can use up a lot of odds and ends making them.

Since purchasing the book last year I have made a few of these creepy adorable amigurumis. Permanent residents in my home are the Grim Reaper, The Devil (AKA Mr. D), and The Day of the Dead girl. I enjoyed making them, for the sheer instant self gratification. They only take about a day or two to create.

This past weekend we added two additional members to the creepy amigurumis. I made the notorious vampire, Nosferatu and the scary mythological creature, Medusa. Norferatu has a ginormous head but with a big fangy smile. Medusa, is not the color I would have preferred, but then again I was using bits of yarn I had laying around. In addition, for Medusa I use for the first time, plastic eyes. First let me say plastic eyes are inexpensive and give a nice look to the amigurumi. Totally worth the 99cent I spent on a package of six.

I think they turned out fantastic, but most importantly the kids love them and in the end that is what counts.

Ah, Autumn

2010-09-08T18:52:00.000-07:00

Amity Caplet - from The Adventures of Miss Flitt

2010-08-03T14:10:00.000-07:00

The Adventures of Miss Flitt - The Strange Case of the Magician's Cabinet http://www.missflitt.com/ is a lovely story with beautifully painted watercolors and knitting patterns that compliment the story. This, Amity Caplet, is just one of several patterns in the book. It took me several attempts to actually complete this pretty little caplet. Not because of the difficulty of the pattern, but it seemed each time I made an attempt (three attempts to be exact), and something would go wrong. Each time I had to rip it out and start again.

My first attempt began using a Rio de Plata yarn in a white/grey color. The yarns thick and thin texture and color variation did not compliment the pattern. Half way through the pattern I frogged it. After finding a different yarn better suited for this pattern I made my second attempt. But after dropping stitch after stitch, after stitch, I ripped it out and through it in the closet. And in the closet is stayed for months and months and months.

This month after completing two other projects I finally felt motivated to try and give this pattern another go, with great results. I finally realized that an easy way for me to keep track of the pattern repeats is to place a marker at the beginning of each repeat. This was my salvation and my reward was a completed caplet.

I found the lace pattern fun. The caplet is more like a cape then caplet, its on the small size. I would have preferred an additional two repeats of the lace pattern so the caplet would actually go around my shoulders better. But perhaps its made for a smaller back. That said, however, I like how it looks on me.

Tight "Fitted" Red Sweater

2010-07-18T13:43:00.002-07:00

I have finally completed my sweater. After working on this project for over an agonizing year it finally has come to an end. UFO - WIP is no longer. Stephanie Japel's pattern "Short Sleeve Cardigan with Ribbing" from her book "Fitted Knits." The pattern is just that, a very fitted knit. I enjoyed knitted the pattern for the level of quick satisfaction because its made in bulky yarn and is easy, but not boring and the ribbing provides nice shaping, if you have a shape. I need a better waist.

The yarn I used, Cascade Jewel Hand Dyed in red was nice enough to knit. It is a thin and thick wool yarn with a beautiful variation in color that adds to the beauty of any project.

This pattern is originally made in a short sleeve style. I modified it by lengthening the sleeves and placing the ribbing design at the end of each sleeve.

If I am inclined to make this sweater again I would add an additional two buttons to the button band. This may not be a factor if the person intent on wearing it is skinny, but for someone a little more fluffy like myself, an extra button or two would prevent the sweater from puckering when buttoned up.

Traveling Gnomes

2010-07-18T13:43:00.001-07:00

We had a nice visit from a couple of traveling gnomes. They have been traveling the world since March. This friendly little gnome is from Georgia, yes a southern boy with good manners and a lovely sense of humor. First he was off to a European vacation, making stops in Norway, Sweden and England. Delighting all who crossed paths with him. After a few weeks of wonderful adventures in Europe he made his way back to the US. First stop was Virginia, were he sampled delicious crepes and a good glass of beer. Feeling a little lonely, went back to Georgia picked up the girl of his dreams and took her along for an amazing road trip. In Wisconsin, sparks flew, they both fell madly in love with each other, a true love, a love like no other. The kind of love only found in fairy tales. It was here they were both married in a private ceremony. Then they were off to Minnesota, Canada, Oregon then to us in California. Sadly our visit ended and we had to send him off to more adventures. There first stop, a homestead in Alaska, then who knows where else they will find themselves............Oh by the way they just love doughnuts.

Queen Anne's Scarf

2010-02-08T10:52:00.000-08:00

Yummy Yummy Yummy Noro garden silk!!!

I finally found a great pattern that truly compliments the lovely colors of Noro, and it was easy to make too!

I found the Queen Anne's Scarf a nice pattern for a quick and fun scarf. I crocheted this scarf up in no less than a few hours.

This pattern lends itself that you can use any weight of yarn, any length. As a result, its a great way to use up bits of odds and ends of left over pieces of yarn. Each motif could easily be made a different color, size, and texture.

Making up for lost time

2010-01-29T12:19:00.000-08:00

I need to make up for lost time, three months sure does fly by quick. I have been so busy. So busy that I had not found the time to blog or chat or stop and smell the flowers. Life has been hectic but I have still managed to knit, sew, and travel a little bit.

Finished:
· All four of my niece’s shrugs in time for Christmas.
· Completed all four dresses that accompanied the knitted shrugs.
· I designed and sewed my very first Christmas stocking.
· Knitted a cable scarf for a friend for Christmas.
· Knitted my darling husband a WWII pattern beanie.
· Knitted the Nati Nati Sweater in super bulky yarn (what was I thinking!).
· Completed my first möbius pattern, a caplet/wrap.

WIP
· Amity Caplet
· Short-Sleeve Cardigan
· Mom’s Summer End Cardigan
· Clementine Shawlette
· Inigo Montoya’s Ishbel shawl

Family and I took a Halloween trip to Northern California to visit my brother and his family. We all had a great time. I ate the best biscuits and gravy I have every had in my life in a little town called Hollister, CA at the Cozy Cup. Highly recommend. Made the mandatory stop at Casa de Fruta.

Thanksgiving was quite, pleasant and nice.

My youngest turned 2 in December and we had a little party for him. Had a great turn out. We also managed to take the kids to Disneyland with additional family members. Fun, but never again will I go to Disneyland the day before Christmas Eve. Too exhausting.…….Phew!

Will post pictures of my finished items and of my works in progress. I may even sneak in a few family pic’s from our adventures.

Tiny Little Shrug

2009-10-14T16:53:00.000-07:00

In a matter of three days, evenings really, I completed this cute tiny little shrug. This shrug will be one of many that will find itself in Christmas wrapping for the holidays. I used Stephanie Japel's One Skein Wonder pattern. The pattern is in adult sizes, but I decided I would try and altered the size to fit my 2 year old niece.

I used Plymouth Encore Colorspun worsted weight wool/acrylic yarn that would be easy to care for - wash and wear, in a variegated purple. I knitted the smallest size on the pattern and used smaller needles, US 5 for the body and US 3 for the edging. The result a quick and easy tiny little shrug.

I hope to make 3 more for my other nieces before Santa comes to town.

UFO's of the Worst Kind

2009-10-10T13:43:00.000-07:00

The summer was slow with very little progress on my spring projects. My two spring projects, the February Lady Sweater for my Mom and the Short Sleeve Cardi have become UFO’s of the WORST kind. They are desperate to become FO’s and I have not been very kind and helpful to them. As a result, they haunt me day and night with eyes of resentment and bitterness. I can sometimes swear the dpn’s hanging off the Sleeve’s from the Short Sleeve Cardi’s points in my direction purposefully.

February Lady Sweater
I am making my Mom a February Lady Sweater in a rich scarlet ruby red wool – Cascade Superwash. When I first embarked on this project I felt very intimidated by the pattern. The pattern itself presented a bit of confusion in its directions for me because it made assumptions of the level of the knitter. I having a pea for brains could not get my head around the eyelet directions. My head was spinning faster then Linda Blair’s on the Excerist. Because of this reason my February Lady Sweater evolved into a very nasty UFO for months and months.

Last week, my brain grew from pea size to a walnut, with a little help from my knitting group. A few gals in my knitting group where able decipher the eyelet directions and thus progress on the sweater began.

…and my February Lady Sweater lived happily ever after, for now…???

My Short Sleeve Cardi
This is one project that started with the yarn first. I am knitting with Cascade Peruvian Jewel yarn, 100% wool. It's a thick and thin, slightly variegated monochromatic yarn .

The color variation and the thick and thin texture add an additional level of interest on a simple pattern "Short Sleeve Cardigan with Ribbing" from Stephanie Japel's book Fitted Knits. I am knitting this sweater for myself, but if my Mom likes it then I will easily sacrifice it for her.

And what better excuse to buy more yarn then “…..Oh husband, I have to buy more yarn to make another sweater for myself because I gave my Mom that sweater….wink…wink….”

The bulky yarn has provided a fast knit. It is for this very eason that this cardi is bitter. In theory it should not take months and months to complete this sweater. I have not been kind to my sweater. But I am now working on making this UFO become a full fledged FO. No more bitterness cardi, it can’t be good for your wool.

I began my reckless knitting journey by misreading the pattern from the get go. This raglan pattern called for knitting 15 rows for the yoke, instead I knitted 84 rows because I misread the pattern. The 84 were actually the number of stitches I should have on my needles. I made this discovery at around row 63, after looking at my sweater and wondering when I would be separating the stitches for my sleeves. To my dismay I had to rip back all 63 stitches back to the collar. After two days of un-knitting backwards, I was back on track. However, I must admit after this set back I was almost ready to drop the whole project.

At this point the body is complete, and one sleeve is almost done. I am extending the sleeves from short ¾ lengths to a full length sleeve. Ten more rows should complete the right sleeve. I need to start the left sleeve and the edging for the buttons. OH BUTTONS!! Yikes, I need to find buttons.

I have set myself a goal for October 31st as a deadline to complete this project, but I think November is more realistic. So little cardi hold no longer this bitterness, lets look forward to a sweet winter in which you will keep someone if not me warm.

Ode To My Blog

2009-10-09T13:21:00.000-07:00

Oh kind and faithful blog, forgive me for neglecting you. It’s been four months since our last rendezvous and I miss you so. Neglecting you is neglecting me. My life over the course of the last four months has been nothing less than hectic, emotional and exhausting.

I wish I could say that I am exhausted from all of the knitting or crafting or even traveling, but sadly no. Life altering events prevented me from blogging. Life as I have come to know it will never be the same again. As I rode the emotional train of life, over the last few months, it took me places I had never been and I do not wish to return to for a very long, long, long time. However, I look at the road ahead as one of new direction and adjustments. Each day is a blessing not to be taken for granted.

So, dear and loyal blog may we once again conquer the world of food, crafting, travel and family life, as we have so often done. Let us once again rejoice when I say knit 1, purl 2, bake, paste, cut, and make reservations to knit to the end of time.

My Luscious Lace Scarf

2009-06-05T22:34:00.000-07:00

I finished my very first lace knitting pattern, the Luscious Lace Scarf (pattern is available free on Ravelry). This pattern was an ego booster. I had been trying lace patterns for some time now with no success. I figured out how to follow a lace pattern and read a chart, but lord help me it never failed after a few rows I would drop a yarn over or skip a SSK and off to the lily pond I go to rip it, rip it, rip it. If I was motivated enough I would start it over, but I never got very far in completing any lace projects until now.

The Luscious Lace Scarf pattern had a resting row or purl side. This was great! I never knew to look for patterns with a resting row. Of course, the beautiful lace pattern is only one sided but who cares when it looks so good. The pattern calls is writen for a lace weight yarn, but that was not going to happening, at least not for now. Baby steps for me. So I opted to use a DK weight. I modified the pattern because of the yarn and only casted on 40 sts and I knitted 3 repeat patterns instead of the 5 the pattern suggested.

I knitted this pattern using DK yarn Fable Handknit Baby Alpaca in colorway suede. It's 100% Baby Alpaca, 145 yards, I used two entire skeins. I am smittened with this yarn. In addition to being ultra soft it has a soft look to it. The yarn gives the scarf a nice texture that unfortunately I was unable to capture in the photo above. My only complaint is their limited color shades. They have several different colors but the shades are pale, muted-pastel-y, the colors of Easter eggs. I would buy more of this yarn in maybe mist, pear, or chocolate colorways.

I made this scarf for my husband's co-worker. She is a beautiful, sweet and thoughtful person who spoils my kids rotten for their birthdays, Christmas, and pretty much any other holiday possible. It turned out to be a belated birthday gift, about 6 weeks late, but I wanted to make her something special that would give her a warm hug every time she wore it.

My Dentist is Going to Hate Me

2009-06-05T00:15:00.000-07:00

Last week I was showered with a magical envelope of chocolate goodies from twinsmama, as she is known in the Ravelry world.

Actually it was a small box, but it was suppose to be an envelope for our groups 4/4 food swap, so for all case and purposes we shall call this a magical envelope as twinsmama, my swap parnter put it so eloquently.

The parcel traveled a long distance coming from across the Atlantic pond. One wonderful detail was how each item was individually wrap with such care it was like opening a gazillion little prizes. I admit I delighted in opening each and every one of them.

In my magical evelope I found 10 hot chocolate sachets, a packet of Angel Delight - a w hip up chocolate milk - sounds delicious!, a Chocolate orange bar, a Crunchie bar (ate it soon after my parcel arrive, they are one of my fav's), a chocolate picnic bar, a chocolate hazelnut Topic bar, two toffee crisps (First thing gone, as soon as we opened it), two Boost chocolate bars, a toffee & hammer package, a four pack of chocolate shaped and flavored lip gloss - too cute, an old fashion candy stick from Bournemouth Pier Rock and a box of note cards that say “a hug is a great gift one size fits all”

Twinsmama thank you so much for my magical envelope it was a great fun to open.

My family and I are going to enjoy tasting all the wonderful treats but my dentist is going to hate me.

Norway Capelet Inspiration - The Finale

2009-06-04T23:28:00.000-07:00

I finally finished my Chanson En Crochet Capelet, well actually I finished it well over a week ago, but only now am I posting pics. Here it is in all it's wonderful crocheting glory. I completed it in a little over two weeks, but in reality it took about 8 to 1o hours of work, maybe less because I am terrible with estimating time.

I just love the pattern for the simple fact that it was a true self gratifying piece of work. And frankly I needed something I could finish in less than a month and be proud of. It's my first crocheted wearable project. Something I never thought I could do because I can be so dense when it comes to reading crochet pattern.

It is a great pattern for any basic crocheter who would like to make a wearable project. Almost every row was different and easy to follow. It was very gratifying watching the flower clusters form in such a simple manner. I modified the trim on the edges only slightly to get a more solid look. I also find that crochet is very forgiving, unlike it's cousin, knitting where mistakes can often be more noticable.

The yarn I used was Aslan Trends Artesanal (40% Cotton / 30% Alpaca / 30% Polyamide) in midnight black. It has a tweed look to it and is very very soft, from the combination alpaca and cotton. Initially I was not completely convinced I loved the yarn when I first bought it. An impulsive buy decided upon strictly by the color of the yarn.

I disliked the polyamide fibers that occasionally stuck out like a sore thumb and I found myself picking them out every time I came across one. Frankly they looked like hair from places where the sun doesn't shine. But then like fungus (and I do enjoy mushrooms very much) it grew on me. It is really great yarn. The texture it nice. The yarn drapes well, particularly in this pattern. I am thinking about going back and buying a few additional skeins in another color for another project. What project? More on that later.

Hope

2009-05-21T20:49:00.000-07:00

My family is my life. I am a piece of my parents as my children are a piece of me. My family is my cultural traditions, values, crazy chaotic holidays with lots of food. Lots of food.

So it's no surprise when we are in crisis we come together to support one another. Yesterday I had a real conversation with my cousin. His mom, my lovely aunt passed away last year. We talked about his Mom and my Dad. My cousin reminded me not to give up hope. It's difficult sometimes to remember that hope is still out there, especially when you see your own mothers hope fade over time. My cousin made me realize that hope is always there no matter what. I need to be the one to keep hope for my Dad and remind my Mom of it whenever she forgets.

Whatever lies ahead, a far distance ahead I plan to keep a space in my heart for hope.

Swedish Delight

2009-05-21T20:48:00.001-07:00

I received a great swap package for the April Tea Swap from Kariola (as she is known in the Ravelry world). The envelope was stuffed to the gills filled with goodies from Sweden. In my package I found a beautiful knitted coaster made of my first ever Noro skein and the colors are just lovely, smokey black with blues, violets and grays. Two skeins of svarta yarn in cream and black, three handcrafted hair scrunchies by Kariola, a Gisha milk chocolate and hazelnut bar, knitting needles, a recipe for chocolate muffins, a pattern for the posie tea cozy, a pattern for the skull keychains, ballerina cookies (husband has eatten half the package already - had to hide the rest), a gecko strawberry air freshener, Kobbs Himlagott Lingenberry flavored tea , and Swedish fish and other gummies - the kids and I have polished off half the bag already - they are delicious.

I just love receiving regional items such as the Swedish tea, Swedish chocolate, Swedish cookies and most importantly the Swedish fish. A big treat for me and my family, we love trying new things.

Kariola is a very warm and sweet person. I say this not just because she sent me such an amazing package, but because I have had the pleasure of getting to know her. She has also been very supportive during these difficult times. For that, I cannot thank her enough.

Norway Capelet Inspiration

2009-05-15T23:04:00.000-07:00

Last week I received a lovely parcel as part of my 3 of 4 swap on Ravelry. The lovely Heddas sent me the Chanson en Crochet Capelet pattern, a bamboo crochet hook in the required size (6.00mm)for the pattern and a postcard. This pattern as been on my list of queue for several months, it had been on the top of my list. Receiving this pattern was a sign. So I took this sign and ran to my LYS earlier this week and bought some delicious cotton/alpaca/polyamide blend yarn - Aslan Trends Artesanal in midnight black tweed. It's too yummy for words.

So I began my capelet.
So far I am loving this pattern. I have been working on this for two days and already I am about a 1/3 into it and am moving very quickly through the pattern. Great pattern because each row is easy and fun..........more to come in the days that follow.

Yo Gabba Gabba For Breakfast

2009-04-26T17:07:00.001-07:00

Sunday morning we found ourselves at the Festival of Books at UCLA. I would like to say it was because of all of the books, authors and literary treasures to be had. But in reality the true reason we woke up at the crack of dawn on a Sunday morning was because our kids favorite TV characters were making a special appearance at the festival. Yo Gabba Gabba!!!!

Dj Lance Rock jumped out from backstage danced, spun the records, engaged the kids and even the parents with some very familiar tunes.

At first I was worried because I think my kids were surprised and shocked to see their favorite TV characters live. A bit of a shock to the system for someone so small. My kids love it!!!!!! They danced, jumpy jumped, got their wiggles out, had a party in their tummies, and greeted DJ Lance Rock and his special guest Brobee. It was a sight to see or shall I say hear a group of a few hundred parents sing to the tunes with their kids.

Although the set was less then 30 minutes. It was 30 minutes of pure energy and my kids love it.........."theirs a party in my tummy, so yummy, so yummy!"

Superhero with a Capital “S”

2009-04-26T17:06:00.000-07:00

I have been carrying a heavy heart. Last month my Dad was diagnosed with Leukemia. Its terribly depressing to see your father, the pillar of strength and robust energy crumbling before your eyes. Words cannot begin to describe all the sacrifices, support and unconditional love that my Dad has given to me. I love him so much that it tears me to pieces to see him struggle with this illness. My Mom trying so hard to keep it together, but needs my brother and I to help support her….sigh……. That said, strangely I found support and understanding from an unlikely place, a virtual friend.

A few weeks ago out of nowhere I receive a package in the mail from lawardrop (as she is known in the Ravelry world). This women is a Superhero with a capital “S” in my book. When I shared with our Ravelry group the crap I was going through (and yes I said crap, it is crap, crap, crap, crap!) she recognized the dark place I was in, because she had (unfortunately) been there too. I realize now how important it has been for me to know that someone else understood what I was going through. When family goes into crisis mode you can become blinded by things around you, numb with grief and lost in the dark empty space within ones self. You cannot help but feel so alone when things are dark and gloomy. And normally I like dark and gloomy, but not like this.

This beautiful care package contained the following items.Handmade slippers with adorable Cheshire cats smiling at me.
A handmade project bag.
Two bars of delicious chocolate bars.
Rose flavored mints in a lovely fairy tin.
Tension Tamer Tea.
Note pad with pen.
Melt away stress Dreamy Night cream.
And a cute black and pink skull patch.

Lawardrop may never realize that she provided me with a much needed warm hug from across the country, she did that and more. Words cannot begin to express my gratitude to Lawardrop for what she has done for me. Big hugs Lawardrop, you have a heart of pure gold.

Knitting Lace

2009-04-09T18:56:00.000-07:00

Progress at last..........
So last month I began my first lace project. Sure last Summer I had given lace knitting a go, but I didn’t get very far with my Clementine Shawlette. In March I stated the Interweave -Juliet Scarf. Lovely pattern, but my goodness this pattern was giving me a headache. For a beginner this lace pattern this was not the “easy” pattern. It was a bit confusing and I keep dropping my yarn over. So instead of giving up, as I am guilty of doing quite often, I decided to find another pattern. In my quest to find the perfect beginners lace pattern I found the Luscious Lace Scarf by Knitting Pixie. This pattern was a dream come true.

I found this pattern easy to follow. It had what is called a resting purl row, much needed when you are trying not to drop your stitches and keep your head in order. The pattern called for 64 co stitches, I reduced it to 40 because I am using the Fable Baby Alpaca yarn in DK weight. I also only have 2 skeins of the yarn so I need to make sure I had enough to make a decent size scarf.

I am have halfway through my pattern and am loving it. I highly recommend this pattern to anyone looking to try a knitting lace and reading charts. It’s an ego booster for sure!!!

Who is your partner? - Technique Swap

2009-04-07T13:40:00.001-07:00

As part of the March -Who is your partner? Technique Swap - I receive the most amazing and beautiful parcel from the very lovely Purr as she known in the Ravelry world. The object of the technique swap was to find out what technique your partner likes most and then we talked about this on the group page on Ravelry. We then would find a small item(s) that has something to do with that technique and mail it off to our secret partner.

I know Purr went over the limit because I receive way too many wonderful goodies. Because I am all over the place in my technique and continuously trying to learn new things she sent me several technique related items. A handmade, hand-dyed, and designed project bag by Purr herself. It’s so cool! Not only did I get one but TWO handmade items. The lovely copper cable hook necklace with skull charm was also hand crafted by Purr…talented lady! I also received a purse/bag fastener, cute bracelet and highlighting tape to help me with reading lace pattern charts.

Saucy Original Crazy Kit - Sock Swap

2009-04-07T12:52:00.000-07:00

The Saucy Original Crazy Sock Swap for the month of March was so much fun. I had a great time putting together my partners swap package and I receive an amazing package in return. The swap parcel were to contain an either Saucy , Original, or Crazy (or all of the above) Sock Kit. Each kit needed to contain enough sock yarn for at least one decent pair of socks.
The rest of the kit could be saucy - original - crazy!

I was floored when I opened this package. This lovely package came from a lovely lady Cathv-s as she is known in the Ravelry world. In my package I found a hand-dyed by Catherine, sock blanket which is super soft and the colors are amazing the red and the green blend so well with a dash of violet. The sock blanket is so beautiful on it's own, it is hard to think that I will have to unravel it as I knit my socks.

In addition, I also receive a hand carved stamp, made again by Cathv-s of my original Ravelry ravatar. It’s so cool. I just love it! A lovely card with said stamp, flaming hot chili pepper stitch markers and a giant bag of rootbeer jelly bellys. My favorite soda pop in the whole wide world. Now I can indulge my senses with small treats throughout the whole day!!!! Thank you so much.
Now I am off to find a great sock pattern for this lovely yarn…………

RAK - Mirasol Yarn

2009-03-20T09:58:00.000-07:00

Last week I received a beautiful and unexpected RAK (random act of kindness) parcel from fellow raveler sulkycat. The parcel included two beautiful hand dyed skeins of Mirasol yarn in colorway -Saffron Spice. This is the first time I had heard of Mirasol yarn based out of Peru.

Mirasol yarn is based on Fair-trade. This guarantees that disadvantaged producers in the developing world get a better deal for their products. The producers receive a price that covers the cost of sustainable production plus an extra premium that is invested in social or economic development projects such as the Mirasol Project. The Mirasol Project supports local communities in Peru through the sales of the yarn. The Mirasol Yarn Collection includes yarn made from the animals tended by these communities for generations in the Peruvian highlands. A portion of every purchase goes directly to the funding of a centre in the remote area of Munani in the region of Puno in Peru. I love the fact that this yarn was not only sent to be from a very lovely person but that the yarn also will help support and preserve a community in another part of the world.

In addition to the lovely yarn were three wonderful smelling bath soaps in Rose, Lavender and Magnolia, a lip balm called “Let them eat cake” from Lush and a cute little sheep that is now sitting on top of my computer looking down at me as I write this.

Words cannot express the gratitude I feel for this lovely gesture, but more importantly for the friendship that has been fostered. Sulkycat is very special and charming lady dear to my heart and if you ever have the pleasure of coming across her on Ravelry, know that you will be in the present of a wonderful person with a heart of pink glittery gold.

Stuck in the Mud.

2009-03-18T15:07:00.001-07:00

I have been in a knitting funk since January. Other than my Snappy hat, I have not had the motiviation to do a darn thing. I guess I got stuck with two knitting obligations that were sucking the life out of me and I didn't even know it. First, I was stuck trying to finish a sweater for my niece who grew faster than normal and faster than I could knit. So now I am left with a half finished sweater that will be frogged. I plan on completing a project for her soon, but I focus on a quick project in a toddler size because of her ginormous growth spurts. Then my mother's sweater...... more on this later.

This past weekend I found myself transformed from no projects on needles to four projects on needles. What happened? I got very motivated and ambitious and pushed myself out of my funk and on to my needles and stash.

The first of my many projects I plan on knitting is Interweave Knits magazine Spring 2009 Cover pattern- Diminishing Rib Cardigan. I am using a lovely Malabrigo yarn I bought in a dusty olive colorway -greens with pinks. The colors are funky and I think the cardigan pattern is simple enough that the yarn will shine.

I also began a Juliet Scarf. This lace pattern is my way of pushing myself to read and follow charts better and finally complete a lace pattern. I am using Fable baby alpaca yarn and I have to say it’s so soft and light looking I just love the way this is knitting up, even if I only have a few rows done.

After much stress, aggravation and frustration trying to find a pattern for my mothers sweater while keeping in mind the yearn - super bulky Rowan Big Wool, I decided to use the same Brigitta pattern I used for my mother-in-laws sweater. I already experimented with three other patterns to no satisfaction on the pattern or use of yarn. This week I finally decided to make another Brigitta sweater.

It’s a great pattern, easy to follow, I have already done one sweater in the same yarn for my mother-in-law and it knits up very fast. I didn’t want to make the same sweater pattern for both my mom and mother-in-law but not being able to find another suitable pattern left me in a pickle. On a postive note, the sweater will be in a different color and size. I would like to finish this project by the end of the month before all of our cool weather is gone.

Finally I needed something that would be satisfying for my knitting ego. I needed to make a project that I could finish by the end of the week and feel like I finally completed a project, instead of feeling like I like I was trying to run but was stuck in the mud. I am knitting the Paris Loop by Stephanie Japel using a wonderful yarn for this project -Schaefer Nancy Yarn in Dian Fossey colorway – greens, greys and dark almost black colors. It’s very pretty.

I just realized that I bought three different yarns in green colorways this year. I must have been in dire need of knitting in green or was inspired by the lack of green in the winter. Either way this spring is looking green, friendly and I am feeling happy already.

A Victorian Valentine

2009-02-17T20:58:00.000-08:00

The first paper Valentine's Day greeting cards go back the early 1400s. A revival of the Valentine's Day greeting card began to take place in Great Britian because of the availablity of printed cards and the decrease in postage costs. This made the token of a Valentine exchange more accessible for the masses.

In the 1840s, Esther A. Howland began to sell the first mass-produced paper valentines in America.

Most recently, technological advancements have taken this tradition of card exchange to the next level, by provided Valentine’s Day e-card. It's a great way to get a quick card out with very little cost or delay, but frankly I still prefer snail mail.

This year I had the great luck to participate in a Victorian Themed Valentine's Day greeting card exchange with four other people from my Ravelry group, The Victorians.

Each person mailed a Victorian themed card to the other four in the group. The card could be handmade or purchased. These are the lovely results of my exchange, with one exception. The image found at the top of this page is in fact not a card but a sticker that was custom made and decorated the outer envelope of one of the card I received. It reads "To my Ravelry Valentine" I loved it so much, I had to include the image with the cards.

This beautiful handmade card has a portrait of a Victorian couple, not identified, in a sepia. I found it amusing that the outer envelope included a postage stamp of Edgar Allen Poe, How appropriate! A quote is found on the top left hand corner.

" Love me sweet, with all thou art,
Feeling, thinking, seeing,
Love me in the lightest part,
Love me in full being"

~ Elizabeth Barrett Browning

The Omnivore's Hundred List

2009-02-11T17:42:00.000-08:00

I recently came across The Omnivore's Hundred created by food blogger - http://www.verygoodtaste.co.uk/. It’s a list of 100 things for the adventurous foodie to try. The list is not a “fear factor” food list as one might think. Instead it’s foods that everyone should try to experience once in their life or more if you happen to really like the stuff. There are strange foods I have never heard of, Salted lassi, Epoisses and silly childhood foods like Hostess Fruit Pie.

So far I have tried 72 out of 100. I would like to think that's good, but it just makes me a bit of a piggy when it comes to food. I will pretty much eat or at least try anything.

The following instructions are from the original posting.
1) Copy this list into your blog or journal, including these instructions.
2) Bold all the items you’ve eaten.
3) Cross out any items that you would never consider eating.
4) Optional: Post a comment here at http://www.verygoodtaste.co.uk/ linking to your results.
5.) Extra Optional: I would love to know your results. Please post a comment with your results.

1. Venison

2. Nettle tea

3. Huevos rancheros

4. Steak tartare

5. Crocodile

6. Black pudding

7. Cheese fondue

8. Carp

9. Borscht

10. Baba ghanoush

11. Calamari

12. Pho

13. PB&J sandwich

14. Aloo gobi

15. Hot dog from a street cart

16. Epoisses

17. Black truffle

18. Fruit wine made from something other than grapes

19. Steamed pork buns

20. Pistachio ice cream

21. Heirloom tomatoes

22. Fresh wild berries

23. Foie gras

24. Rice and beans

25. Brawn, or head cheese

26. Raw Scotch Bonnet pepper

27. Dulce de leche

28. Oysters

29. Baklava

30. Bagna cauda

31. Wasabi peas

32. Clam chowder in a sourdough bowl

33. Salted lassi

34. Sauerkraut

35. Root beer float

36. Cognac with a fat cigar

37. Clotted cream tea

38. Vodka jelly/Jell-O

39. Gumbo

40. Oxtail

41. Curried goat

42. Whole insects

43. Phaal

44. Goat’s milk

45. Malt whisky from a bottle worth £60/$120 or more

46. Fugu - NO, why take a chance

47. Chicken tikka masala

48. Eel

49. Krispy Kreme original glazed doughnut

50. Sea urchin

51. Prickly pear

52. Umeboshi

53. Abalone

54. Paneer

55. McDonald’s Big Mac Meal

56. Spaetzle

57. Dirty gin martini

58. Beer above 8% ABV

59. Poutine

60. Carob chips

61. S’mores

62. Sweetbreads

63. Kaolin

64. Currywurst

65. Durian - Nothing that smell like that is going in my mouth.

66. Frogs’ legs

67. Beignets, churros, elephant ears or funnel cake

68. Haggis

69. Fried plantain

70. Chitterlings, or andouillette

71. Gazpacho

72. Caviar and blini

73. Louche absinthe

74. Gjetost, or brunost

75. Road kill

76. Baijiu

77. Hostess Fruit Pie

78. Snails

79. Lapsang souchong

80. Bellini

81. Tom yum

82. Eggs Benedict

83. Pocky

84. Tasting menu at a three-Michelin-star restaurant. - MUST DO!

85. Kobe beef

86. Hare

87. Goulash

88. Flowers

89. Horse

90. Criollo chocolate

91. Spam

92. Soft shell crab

93. Rose harissa

94. Catfish

95. Mole poblano

96. Bagel and lox

97. Lobster Thermidor

98. Polenta

99. Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee

100. Snake

My Norwegian inspired Snappy Hat

2009-02-07T11:33:00.000-08:00

My Snappy Hat, designed by Corrina Ferguson (pattern can be found for free on Raverly.com) was inspired by the flag of Norway. Back in October my Ravelry group had a Phat Phlag Swap. We swapped yarn in the colors of our countries flag. My partner is from Norway (red, white and blue flag colors same as US) she sent me two malabrigo chunky skeins in azul profundo and burgundy and a white chunky Drops Eskimo skein. For my Snappy Hat I used the Burgundy skein.

This was the first time I would be making a project using cables. I had always been so intimidated by cables. They have always looked so complicated to me. Complex twisted yarns going one way then over and under, my head would spin, Linda Blair style. However, I know I would never learn if I didn’t at least try. So this was the perfect opportunity for me to give them a try. A small project using chunky/bulky yarn.

The cable part of this pattern was surprisingly easy to follow. But it look odd at first. The three stitches on the cable needle (see pic) always looked out of place because they seemed so far off to the right. For this reason, I wish the cable needle was larger because I found those three stitches would get very tight knitting off of the cable needle. You are in fact pulling them in a different direction and thus creating the shape and direction of the cable. A technique I need to pratice more.

This picture is after the three stitches were knitted off of the cable needle, creating the cable twist. It is really something special to see it take form. I found that aspect of this project very satisfying as well as how quickly this knits up. And no one can argue that a fast and quick project is most satisfying and good for the knitting ego.

Farmer's Market

2009-02-01T23:49:00.000-08:00

Saturday night we hopped in the car with the kids and headed over to the Farmer's Market in the Fairfax District for dinner. The Farmer's Market has been around since 1934 and for Los Angeles that is pretty old. It's a wonderful place to have an semi outdoor meal of just about anything you can think of, from pizza, chinese, Korean BBQ to crepes, Mexican, French, seafood, you name it and I am sure you can find it at the Farmer's Market. In addition to prepared foods you can also find local produces, butcheries, pastries, gourment foods, and a whole host of retail stores.

We had dinner at the Mexican Food stand - Loteria Grill, it was DELICIOUS! They have an incredible menu. You can order from their many different sauted items and have them in either a burrito, taco, tostada or sope. They also serve a variety of enchiladas, and chilies rellenos. We ordered a shredded beef burrito, three tacos - mushroom and epazote, cochinita pibil, and carnitas en salsa morita, crispy chicken tacos and black beans and white rice. Everything was wonderful, but by far the carnitas en salsa morita were the best. Slow cooked pork marinated in a super spicy morita chilie sauce topped with onions and cilantro, great texture and flavors. Had us wanted more.

Next we took a stroll over to Bob's CoffeeDoughnuts for a little sweet dessert. This is one of the best place for doughnuts. They have New Orleans style beignets, bear claws, classic glazed, cinnamon rolls, just to mention a few and my favorite maples bars. Sebastian got a "pink" glazed doughnut in shape of a heart. Valentine's Day is just around the corner.

We ended our evening with a trolley ride around the Grove shopping area. My kids love it.

Double Moss Stitch

2009-01-30T05:47:00.000-08:00

This is the first of 12 blocks that will be completed over the course of this year. Each month a new 12'' inch block pattern will be made to create an afghan blanket. The purpose of this KAL is to learn new stitches and help one another in the process.

I found this stitch to be fairly easy, only a little attention at each turn is needed to ensure the proper stitch is made. A great looking stitch pattern.

This month Fibers provided the stitch instructions.

Double Moss Stitch
Cast on 54 stitches, using your preferred method
Row 1 (RS): K2, P2, K2; Repeat from to the end
Row 2: P2, K2, P2; Repeat from to the end
Row 3: P2, K2, P2; Repeat from to the end
Row 4: K2, P2, K2; Repeat from to the end
Repeat Rows 1 through 4 until your block measures 12”, ending on a RS row.
Bind off.
RS=Right Side

Nicolas's Brobee Pinata

2009-01-23T11:32:00.001-08:00

My kids love, I mean LOVE, Yo Gabba Gabba. It's like a religion in my house. My 1 year, laughs and dances to the music. Just the sound of the intro brings my kids running (or crawling) to the TV. It's sort of funny and scary that one show could be so powerful to someone so young.

So it was a no brainer when we decided to have a Yo Gabba Gabba themed birthday party for my 1 year, Nicolas. However, we found ourselves at a lost for party supplies. So we had to get creative and make our own. We used all of the characters for our inspiration for colors; Red for Muno, Green for Brobee, Pink for Foofa, Blue for Toodee and Yellow for Plex. We purchased gift bags, balloons, paper streamers and plates in those colors. My husband took on the task of making a pinata.

Initially he intended on making a Plex pinata because we both thought that the shape would be easier to replicate with boxes and the use of one main color of yellow. As my husband began shaping the pinata, we both discovered that Plex was more complex than we had anticipated and realized that Brobe's shape lent itself better for a pinata.

What we used to make the Brobee Pinata:

One small rectangular boxes - the main body (ex, staple 10 reams of paper box for appx size)
2 to 3 poster boards - any heavy stock paper) for arms and head.

Construction paper in orange, white and black.

Tissue paper in two tones of green

Staples

Box sealing tape

White glue (such as Elmer's glue)

Newspaper

Wire coat hanger

We began with rectangular box for the body. Laying the box on one side (standing in it's tallest form) we sealed up with the box sealing tape. We cut an opening on the top - this is for the head.

We cut the poster board in 3 inch wide strips. We stapled the poster board to the box or body of the pinata, then making a curve over the box (like a rainbow) we attached the other end of the strip to the opposite side of the box. We did about 3 or 4 stripes one way then 2 to 3 the other way, crisscrossing the strips.

We cut 2 poster board pieces in 15 - 18 inch wide strip for the arms. Rolled them together to make a cylinder, stapled and/or used the tape to keep it's shape. At one end of the cylinder we made about 8 - two inch cuts all around, a straight cut to create "tabs". Then we folded the "tabs" in a 90 degree angle. The tabs are used to attach the arms to the body, we found tape to be the best adhesive.

Once the basic shape of Brobee was done then we began to glue newspaper that would serve as our base for the color tissue paper. We cut the newspaper in pieces that best fit our shape. Since the newspaper would not be visible no special cut was required.

Once the entire pinata was covered with at least 1 1/2 to 2 layers of newspaper we began to add the colored tissue. We first started by cutting stripes 6 inches wide. We then folded the stripe to 3 inches wide, with the fold away from us. We began making 1 inch cuts 1 inch apart all along the length of the strip. We did this alternating the colors, light green to dark green.

Beginning at the bottom we began to glue each strip at the fold all around the body first. We glue about 4 strips for one color before changing to the next until we reached the head. We did the same thing for the arms until the entire shape is covered in tissue paper.

Using orange construction paper we shaped cones and stapled them to keep their shape. We glued them to the top of Brobee's head.

Using the black and orange and white construction paper we cut out the shape for the eyes, mouth and eyebrow.

For the legs we crumpled newspaper in an oval shape and used the box sealing tape loosely around it to keep it's shape and then attach it to the body. We then covered it with the dark green tissue to match the body with glue.

We cut a wire coat hanger in a long piece. We inserted one end of the coat hanger into the body (Not the head) and made a loop on the outside to be used for the rope to hang from.

This process took several days because we work full time, but it could be done in a day or two with enough time.

Monthly Adventures anniverary rain

2009-01-16T16:36:00.000-08:00

One of my very dear groups on Ravelry, Monthly Adventures had an anniversary celebration that rained prizes for two months. Mine arrived from France, ooo la la. I received a wonderful package of tea, Arabica coffee and Lemon Wafers - not much left of those yummy wafers, kids just loved them. This package came from my dear fellow Raveler Rebeccawip who didn’t just send goodies but kind words as well. Merci Beaucoup!!!

A little indulgence never hurt anyone

2009-01-16T16:17:00.000-08:00

Last night I attend the Unwind (LYS) party. The shop owner, Stephanie provided goodies and beverages and encouraged everyone to bring non-perishable items to be donated to the SOVA food pantry in the area.

The folks from Ravelry - Jess, Casey and Mary-Heather where in attendance to meet and greet. They gave out buttons, stickers and were happy to meet follower ravelers. There were several other vendors on hand as well. The people from NAMASTE http://www.namasteneedles.com/index.php were there to promote their line of handbags totes and accessories. They have very lovely and stylish project bags. My favorite is the Namaste clutch bag. Its great for knitting needles, hooks, notions and other accessories. It also makes a nice and stylish everyday clutch.

Since Unwind was also having a sale, I gave myself a little indulgence and bought several skeins of Mano Del Uruguay - Silk Blend in Olive colorway. It's wonderful and I just love the color. It's in my stash now, but I am now in the search to find a cardigan or shawl pattern to make for myself. I won't be surprised if six months later this yarn is still sitting in my stash.

In the beginning

2008-08-11T15:44:00.000-07:00

How to begin. I never intended on having a blog, ever. I have been told that I have the gift of gab, diarrhea of the mouth, love to hear myself talk...well I think you get the picture. But that does not always translate on paper. It's not the same thing. I consider myself a terrible and boring writing and if you've already tuned out I'll understand. But what on this holy earth got me to blog?

I joined Ravelry. It's not like I didn't have life before Ravelry, I did and still do. I have two beautiful boys, and an amazing, supportive and loving husband and tons of extended family and friends. But what I found on Ravelry, besides a group of amazing and creative people, fellow knitters/crocheters, was that everyone had a story. Whether it be knitting or crafting or family story, each story had it's own special personal meaning. It was great and inspirational. That said one person comes to mind that truly inspired me to blog and that is fellow Raveler Cathvs as she is know in the Ravelry world.

So, I decided to blog as a way to document my personal crafting journey through knitting and crocheting, share my love for food and travel adventures and my crazy family life.