Strung Out

Adieu dear blog

2009-12-08T15:33:00.002-05:00

Well, it seems that Ravelry has totally taken over my knitting/internet needs. This blog was a great way to catalog prior projects and track progress, and generally connect and chat with the knitting community. With those needs met elsewhere, and a baby due in March 2010, I'm going to shut down the blog (formally, since I haven't posted in months!). I'm going to leave it up, but close down comments.

If you want to reach me, I can be reached on Ravelry. My personal account name is kristineknits, and I also have a joint account with Dr. Liz under Carpe Fiber. We are currently in the midst of putting together quite a few designs we'll be "ravelry publishing" under Carpe Fiber Designs.

Adieu!

Second Sock Syndrome vanquished!

2008-02-23T10:13:00.002-05:00

I've had "Sheri's Lace Sock" on the needles since early 2006. After finishing the first sock, the second was a non-starter for a very long time.

But in the passt week, I've cast on, and actually turned the heel. I'm in the home stretch! Hopefully.

Little Orphan Blog

2008-02-03T20:14:00.000-05:00

My poor blog. It's been orphaned in favor for Ravelry. I've been posting and updating my finished and new projects on Ravelry and totally forgot to update the blog.

No more! I have just finished an old stash project- it was actually my standby project for when I wanted something simple to work on.

Behold.... The Squiggly Baby Blanket.

This project was started with leftover stash yarn, and was originally started for my niece's birth. FYI- she's four years old. Part of the reason it took so long was that it used baby weight yarn in a small needle size. In retrospect, a bad choice for speed, but it resulted in a very nice closeup look.
Not one to laze about, I immediately cast on for a new baby blanket- this one in a medium blue worsted weight yarn. I wanted to make a cable patterned blanket, so I pulled out my grandmother's stitch pattern book and flipped through until I found something suitable. Three cable patterns and one lace pattern later....

I had a couple of flights last weekend, so I had some major progress.

Counting Chickens

2007-11-01T08:39:00.000-04:00

It seems I spoke too soon. For some reason, the "leaves" looked like blobs. I suspect my needle size might be too large, or the stitch patterns too small. Whatever the reason, the turquoisey alpaca yarn is now all wrapped up again in the statsh, waiting for more reliable inspiration. I think maybe a think honeycomb or stitch pattern might do the trick, but I'm going to wait until I can go to the library and check out a couple of knitting books.

So instead, I cast on a different scarf. Of very bulky proportions... Size 11 needles, and it has rows of wrapped stitches, so I think this will be done very quickly. I need some knitting progress!

Call: False Start!

2007-10-29T22:26:00.000-04:00

I have a new project.

Actually, I could say that I've had about 5 new projects over the last few days. I've been starting to knit with this great turquoise dk weight alpaca, but everytime I found a new lace pattern, I was bored. Or I hated the way the alpaca made the pattern look. The lace patterns were not crisp enough, and the cables didn't pop.

But now, I think I found a pattern. Branching Out. From Spring 2005- thank you ravelry for showing me the way!

Second Sock Syndrome battle!

2007-10-01T23:00:00.000-04:00

I've cast on for the second sock of Sheri's Lace Socks... it's been quite a long time since I finished the first sock!

Yay!

2007-09-28T09:45:00.000-04:00

I just found out I passed the bar exam! Yayy!

I'm baaack!

2007-09-27T21:19:00.000-04:00

okay, the quick summer run down.

1. the bar exam was tough. Studying for it was worse
2. wedding planning was tough. The ceremony was beautiful and the party totally rocked.
3. the honeymoon was amazing (Tahiti and Australia= so much fun and fabulous scuba diving)

lots of pictures coming!

What song do you hate?

2007-07-29T18:40:00.000-04:00

We're working on the music for the reception... the play list and the DO NOT PLAY list... and I need some suggestions for the latter.

So here's my question.... What songs do you hate or wish you could turn back time to prevent yourself from hearing? OR what songs play over and over again at parties and weddings, and that's your cue to slink off to the bar or bathroom?

Here's my starting list....
Macarena
YMCA
Electric Slide (not the new Chacha version)
The Chicken Dance
Anything by Celine Dion (this is a personal thing, not general, so no flaming!)
Lady in Red
You Are So Beautiful
When the Moon hits your eye (like a big pizza pie) (Too many shifts at Macaroni Grill)

the bar exam is over...now it's time for the bar!

2007-07-27T14:24:00.000-04:00

ok, so that was cheesy, and probably not very original, but the bar exam is over! Hooray! I now have to wait until the end of September, and hopefully I'll have good news then. The waiting begins... now.

Now I've got some cultural catching up to do.... Simpsons and Harry Potter!

Things I want to do once the bar exam is over

2007-07-21T22:00:00.001-04:00

- sleep
- eat a decent meal
- work out
- read "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows"
- watch the "Simpsons Movie"
- watch "Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix"
- go see "Ratatouille"
- read "Reading Lolita in Tehran"

and oh yeah, finish planning the wedding! In retrospect, I might save some of that reading for the honeymoon (ok, not HP)

Studying on a Prayer

2007-07-21T14:16:00.000-04:00

I'm sure there are some bar takers out there praying to St. Thomas More, patron saint of lawyer[s]. Myself, I've got a medal of St. Dymphna handy, the patron saint for people with mental illness/once known as the patroness against insanity.

I figure that, at this point, passing is going to happen, or it's not. I just don't want to go crazy in the process!

(nope, I'm not Catholic- one of my favorite profs gave out saint medals in the Law and Psych class... he had a really fun Saint of the Week guessing game too)

*edited thanks to my smart-ass sister... Thanks Liana! :)

Major stress

2007-07-17T10:03:00.001-04:00

For those of you who think the bar exam is just another test, move along. I've got nothing of interest for you to read right now. Come back in August, and there'll be lots of cute wedding stuff going on.

For the rest of you, proof that the bar exam is getting to me in a big way- my resting heart rate went up 10-15 beats a minute. YIKES. normally I'm 66-7o, and last night it was sky high at 80. Fortunately after a good sleep, it's seemed to come down a bit, but that was seriously scary. I thought I was going to have a freaking heart attack, my heart was practically pounding (for me).

anyway-back to essay work. See you in a week or so.

But everyone else is doing it!

2007-07-15T17:38:00.000-04:00

I'm referring to the Mystery Stole #3 of course. Seriously, all my favorite bloggers have joined, and I swear that the knitting blogosphere has gotten quieter. Because everyone is knitting like crazy, trying to keep up.

I really want to be a part of it. Cursed Bar exam! It's cutting into knitting time, Harry Potter reading/ movie watching and general, everyday things too!
Of course, if I think for about 2 seconds, I realize I really wouldn't want to do the mystery knit along, since I'm a super picky pattern picker. Say that 3 times fast!

So I think for my next lace shawl (yes, I'm addicted), I'm going to try the Print O' The Wave Stole

Right now I've got a skein of Merino Lace in Navy, although I'm thinking maybe another strand in a dark color would look pretty cool. Perhaps a dark green, or a dark purple? We'll see.

TaDa! (aka, I couldn't help myself)

2007-07-12T23:47:00.000-04:00

Sigh.

Isn't it beautiful?

yeah, I'm going to fix those bottom two corners. They're bugging me too.

2007-07-10T19:55:00.000-04:00

Psst...

the knitting part is over! And I only have 3 ends to sew in, and blocking, and I'm all finished!

AND I'm a whole month early! I thought I'd be up blocking this the night before the wedding. Eep. I hope I didn't jix myself!

All that's left is the Crying...

2007-07-01T20:59:00.000-04:00

I mean the edging...
Yes folks, this means that I've actually gotten entirely through the body of my wedding shawl and have merely the 2 short ends to knit edging onto!

I did a little bit of math... Chart A was 40 rows, Chart B was 520, Chart C was 40 rows... 600 rows total, and estimating about 7 minutes per row (there was some slow knitting, some fixing, some crying) = 70 HOURS
And I'm not even done.
augh.

not much is happening here...

2007-06-05T19:01:00.000-04:00

just going crazy!

1) bar exam studying
2) work
3) more bar exam studying
4) wedding planning
5) more bar exam studying

you get the picture.

In knitting news- my shawl is up to about 75 inches... and just shy of 500 rows

Best cake ever

2007-05-05T16:42:00.000-04:00

So this happened a little while ago... but since I'm only writing papers, I felt that I need some material, and this is good.

Behold.... the Guinness cake.

It was delicious... the cake itself had Guinness (and cocoa) in it, and was a lovely dense and almost savory taste to it, while the frosting was basically melted chocolate chips, adding just enough sweetness to the cake to make it drool-worthy.

We made it for Jeff's birthday, since he loves Guinness like no one else. No one. Seriously.

ok- now I want cake.

inching towards graduation....

2007-05-01T08:41:00.000-04:00

I have a portuguese exam today- last one before the final. Unfortunately I don't understand about 3/4ths of the material. But it'll be fine- I just need to pass the class, not maintain an "A" average. But old habits die hard (not getting "A"s- just working my butt off to do my absolute best)

In other news.... I have a job offer! Whohoo!

hmm... it sure is quiet around here!

2007-04-12T22:28:00.000-04:00

I've been busy! (who hasn't!)
We had a fundraising auction for my law school group... some volunteers fell through the week before the auction, requiring me to run around like a maniac, getting profs to donate (amazing things) I am overwhelmed at how generous the profs and staff were.
Then the show came (preceded by 3 days of baking) and we did amazing... with the same style of fundraiser, we surpassed the previous year's take- and our expectations.
After the show, I had to catch up with everything I had been ignoring for the past month in order to make the auction go smoothly. Class reading, research, working on papers, looking for a job. And of course, being sick. At least I was healthy when I was busy!

I'm looking forward to knitting with the guild this weekend :) yay!
I'm about 6 weeks to graduation... I should probably start working on my wedding shawl again!

He found a BEFORE picture!

2007-03-16T12:27:00.000-04:00

What a difference, Hmm? Although I guess someone might miss the stool that is hidden underneath that vanity top- it's not all cabinets, just a really long top!

Chicago knitting art

2007-03-15T13:30:00.000-04:00

I was in Chicago for a few days this past weekend, and I managed to make it downtown. As we were looking for parking, we passed something called the "Stitching Salon"- which I thought was a new yarn store. I was wrong. When I finally made it back there, it turned out that the Chicago tourism board has put together an exhibition of knit artwork, coupled with an interactive project, and free lessons.

Their webpage is http://www.winterdelights.com/stitchingsalon/about.html

I added to the interactive project... which was organized by the Windy City Knitting Guild. Basically, it was a sewing form set on top of a table, and the Guild had put a sweater on the form, and attached a "skirt" made up of swatches of every size, and people sitting around the table were encouraged to add to the skirt. There were vases of knitting needles, crochet hooks, needles and a wall of yarn, ribbon and beads to pick from. I wish I had a camera- but I'll be heading back to Chicago in about 3 weeks- right when the Stitching Salon will be closing. Maybe I'll get my picture then, and see what someone added after me!

Here's a picture of it that I found
http://promotions.drgnetwork.com/newsletters/creativeknitting/images/21101507/PhotoE_FiberCircleProject-lg.jpg

Best....Valentine's...EVER

2007-02-18T11:04:00.000-05:00

So I had an exam Thursday... Chris made this heart shaped browine for me, and SHOVELED THE DRIVEWAY! For those of you here in South Bend, you understand how great this was. Truly the best Valentine's day gift :)

P.S. It was not just any old brownie.... it was a Ghirardelli brownie. MMM.

the new bathroom- revealed!

2007-02-17T12:54:00.000-05:00

For those of you who had to suffer through my descriptions of redoing the bathroom... here's the last word (maybe). This vanity began as a slightly beat up buffet, lost a few inches in height, lost the left cabinet, had some inches routed out of the top, and we laid marble tiles and a sink in it. We also put in a new travertine stone floor- I cut every piece of the floor and vanity, and my old jacket has the stone dust to prove it! So worth it- the old bathroom had peeling vinyl and a small sized vanity with a top that went all the way across the bathroom and a mirror with those huge bulbs all the way around.- we should have taken a picture!

I kind of wish we could take vanity and floor with us when we move! Oh well, we'll probably just make another one when we get there!

2007-02-17T12:31:00.000-05:00

I made this little dude when I went home a few weekends back- isn't it cute? I'm totally making another one!

This pattern came from "Knit a Fantasy Story" by Jan Messent. And I followed the pattern - except for using pipe cleaners to hold up the body. I just overstuffed a bit and placed the legs slightly differently.

picture post #2

2007-02-17T12:16:00.000-05:00

This lovely little sweater is for my nephew... and is one of three "MUST" knits with a deadline (my wedding shawl and a baby blanket for an incoming niece/nephew is the other) This sweater also functioned as a break from the other two projects! This pattern is A Cardigan for Merry . It's very cute- I adapted it to a larger gauge yarn (lots of math) but apparently screwed up anyway with length (14 instead of 11 inches) ARGH! So although it looks like I'm almost done, I'm so totally not.
Specs- knit from Lion Brand Cotton-ease from stash (don't you love those last 2 words) takes under 3 skeins... although I suspect without my bad math it may only have taken 2. Bah humbug.

So what do you all think? Leave it at 14 inches (for an 18 month old) and pretend it's a coat/sweater (they live in Alabama- this could work) or shorten it so it's 11-12 inches? The nephew is apparently at the top of the growth charts- but he turns 1 year old in May. In my defense, my sister asked me to make if for the winter- that's where the 18 month old thing comes in.

I missed my camera!

2007-02-17T12:06:00.000-05:00

I picked up my camera last week, and now I have many, many pictures to show you!

I'm starting with the knitting ones... I know what you all want!

So this one is the wedding shawl - deadline is late July/early August. Ok, really, it has to be dry August 18th. But the good news is that I doubt it'll take so long... it's already at 48 inches! (not including the edgings that go on the ends) I'm not sure how long it'll be in the end... I guess I should start thinking about that! For those of you interested in the pattern, it is Moon Dance from Pink Lemon Twist I'm really enjoying the pattern, mostly because I can't seem to memorize it!

Wii knitting stuff!

2007-02-16T17:14:00.000-05:00

The entire landscape/scene is knit! I'm loving the graphics- even though I kind of suck at the game

Next 3 weird things about me... knitting related!

2007-02-05T09:06:00.000-05:00

4. I have a strange urge to start new lace knitting projects ALL THE TIME. Even though I already have 2 lace projects on the needles (the wedding shawl and a forgotten pair of socks) and who knows how many OTHER projects!

5. I loves to spin medium-bulky singles and sometimes double ply in many different colors and shades. Strange part? I really prefer light-medium double (or more) ply in one color. I just it's just more fun to play with color in spinning? or I'm just weird.

6. I am both a yarn snob and an acrylic junkie at the same time... hmm, that's probably due to the fact I'm a student.

Tag... you're it!
http://esknitnspin.blogspot.com/

http://mayflwr.typepad.com/ (I know you just got tagged with the random q's... but this one is fun too!)

http://stixandthecity.blogspot.com/ (yes, occasionally jazz hands, and even kicklines are included!)

http://knitandspincrazy.blogspot.com/

http://theoriesofstring.blogspot.com/

http://star-shaped.org/

I was Tagged!

2007-01-17T09:32:00.000-05:00

Madalyn from Unravel Me (http://unravelme.lettucepieces.com/) has tagged me- and I'm finally getting around to writing it!

Six Weird Things About Me (just a piece at a time)
THE RULES: Each player of this game starts with the ‘6 weird things about you.’ People who get tagged need to write a blog of their own 6 weird things as well as state this rule clearly. In the end, you need to choose 6 people to be tagged and list their names. Don’t forget to leave a comment that says ‘you are tagged’ in their comments and tell them to read your blog.

Normally I would say something like, I own a spinning wheel, but as we can see, "weird" is clearly subjective. So here goes....

1. I occasionally dream in other languages... that I don't know. So basically, it's gibberish, but I'm getting every word.

2. The guy and I are redoing the bathroom... almost done! I insisted on cutting every tile for the floor (travertine) and the vanity top (marble). It's strange, but I want to be able to say that I did that! yeah, I'm regretting it a bit.

3. I love to dance so much, that sometimes I break out in show-tune style dancing. I think this is a 7 or 8 on the 10 point weirdness scale.

ok, 3 more to come later

Knitting ethical question....

2007-01-06T13:04:00.001-05:00

Is it cheating on my knitting guild if I go to a knitting group while vacation?

ha! I'm in Breckenridge, and I think I'm going to visit this group- today is not a snowboarding day, since I'm a little sick from a cold and altitude sickness.

While I've been here, I've also worked on 2 tulips for my mom's felted purse from LAST Christmas- it is so true, out of sight, out of mind. It drives me crazy when the pattern refers to another pattern in the book...which I no longer have, because I checked it out of the library. So the tulips will have to wait for thier leaves.

Otherwise, the other knitting is the baby blanket for my sister- due in June and my shawl. And that's probably all it'll be for a while.

:) Happy New Year!

project specs

2006-12-20T08:27:00.001-05:00

yarn: Caron Simply Soft in Sage
Pattern: from an old school magazine of my grandmothers
skills: knitting and crocheting
time: April - December... I took a break! Actually, I would estimate that this project took me 2-3 weeks if I counted my work continuously
Notes: I curse the neckband, and the day the designer designed it!

2006-12-20T08:27:00.000-05:00

Here's the coat I made for my 1 year old nephew- it's not a Christmas present, even though it's green- it's his birthday on the 22nd! Although you can't see the buttons, they're very cute, and very European (where he lives). But that collar is STILL driving me nuts.

School's out for December!

2006-12-18T17:54:00.000-05:00

ok- so this post is a few days late.... School was over Friday at 5pm. WHOOHOO!
I'm taking classes next semester, but have a lighter law schedule and I'll be taking brazilian portuguese to fill out my hours. yay.

The last few days the guy and I have been working hard on remodeling the bathroom- he literally took it down to the subfloor during finals, and we finally laid travertine tiles today. again...whoohooo!

in knitting news- the green jacket has been seamed, but needs to have button bands crocheted on, and then buttons put on.
So I have tonight to finish that, block it and mail it tommorow!

I've got to get to work!

1/2 left

2006-12-15T12:36:00.000-05:00

Just some revisions on a paper, then I have to print it out and hand it in. Totally doable in the next 4 hours.

I'm almost there! Then I get to knit a little
:) YAY!

2 down, 1 1/2 to go

2006-12-14T12:16:00.000-05:00

Fed Tax and a paper due Friday.
Then... PARRRTAY!

In other news, I bought a Black and Decker waffle maker/griddle - it's sort of like my Mom's old General Electric one- and I'm loving it. Waffles for lunch and dinner yesterday, and again this morning.
Yay!

1 down, 2 to go

2006-12-11T14:15:00.000-05:00

Immigration law is done... now just Business Association and Fed Tax.
Whoohoo.

I'm looking forward to Friday at 5pm- I'll be enjoying the beginning of winter break. Probably by either knitting or sleeping. Hrm. Maybe I can do both.

It's been a little while

2006-11-14T10:58:00.000-05:00

...but things are nuts here.
Just a sampling of what's going on

- took the 4 scuba dives in lakes that were required for certification. Yes, it was cold- really, really, really cold
- took underwater knitting pictures- in murky water. So they may not turn out.
- Went to a 2 day conference in Indianapolis "Women in Law"
- got the best knitting bag from the conference
- Went to Jen and Randy's alpaca farm (onceuponafarmalpacas.com)and demonstrated on my wheel
- taught a few of the girl's from Laurie's girl knitting group to spin, they were so fun and patient- gotta love the 8-10yr old attitude, they're not quite at the jaded teen years yet ;)
- spun up the red, orange and yellow roving I bought from someone's Michigan Fiber Fest overflow - a whole 118 yards worth
- bought a few ounces of roving that started life as Sugar's coat (one of the alpacas on the farm) Sooooo soft. Part of me doesn't want to spin it, because then I can't pet it as if it were a pet.
- School drama. enough said
- friend drama. also enough said
- totally ignored my schoolwork... which now I have to go catch up on!

by the way- once I get my camera back(I left it at a friend's), I'll be sending out some pictures that go with the above list
:)
Ciao!

2006-11-07T09:38:00.000-05:00

And finally, 4 out of 5 pieces of a cute jacket for my nephew. the pattern book is so cute- very 60's.

2006-11-07T09:37:00.000-05:00

This is my dad's Christmas present- very fisherman's style. It took just less than one skein of Peruvian Highland Wool from the local knitting store- Sit and Knit. It knit up softer than I expected too- bonus!

2006-11-07T09:35:00.000-05:00

Ok, I've decided to go ahead and post pictures of my latest knitting, since it occured to me that the recipents don't read the site. Here is a trio of baby hats... the yellow and white(handspun) are going to a friend at her baby shower, but I think I may hang onto the purple one- it's so cute and soft

2006-10-28T19:18:00.000-04:00

but I can show you how far I've gotten on the lace shawl!

still knitting....

2006-10-28T08:25:00.000-04:00

but I can't show you, because it's for the holidays!

:P

2006-10-11T14:39:00.000-04:00

And this is the hat that I knit from that yarn... knit entirely in 1 day. It would have taken 2 days, but last night, we went to Mishawaka Brew Co with some people, and I brought my knitting with. That's right, I brought my knitting to the bar. :) the fiance wants a support group for the significant others of knitters. Heh. He might want a group that specializes in knitting bloggers. ;)

2006-10-11T14:31:00.000-04:00

This is the beautiful 74 yards of worsted weight that I spun up a little while ago

False alarm, or "it's a miracle!"

2006-10-09T10:40:00.000-04:00

heh... so actually, my knitting was buried under several things in my backpack. The backpack that I checked 4 or 5 times. In fairness, I have a huge backpack, it's so big that I'm afraid to actually fill it with law books, as the combined weight would probably crush me.
Excuses aside, I'm relieved to have it back... I was having nightmares about a child or someone finding it and turning it into the lost and found, but only after taking it off the needles, causing huge rivers of dropped stitches. I may have been overreacting. Just a tad.
But please forgive me for crying wolf- I have a mid-term in about 20 minutes... and I was so upset about losing my knitting that I couldn't use my other projects as destressors over the weekend study marathon. So guess who didn't sleep much last night :) yep, that'll be me.

AUGH!

2006-10-06T19:56:00.000-04:00

I'm so upset... I think I lost my wedding shawl knitting... :'(
there's only one more place I can think of where it might be, and I can't check it until Monday or Tuesday
AUGHHHH

2006-10-01T22:26:00.000-04:00

Things you've done: (ones I've done are in bold)
01. Bought everyone in the bar a drink
02. Swam with wild dolphins
03. Climbed a mountain
04. Taken a Ferrari for a test drive
05. Been inside the Great Pyramid
06. Held a tarantula
07. Taken a candlelit bath with someone
08. Said 'I love you' and meant it
09. Hugged a tree
10. Bungee jumped
11. Visited Paris
12. Watched a lightning storm at sea
13. Stayed up all night long and saw the sun rise
14. Seen the Northern Lights
15. Gone to a huge sports game
16. Walked the stairs to the top of the leaning Tower of Pisa
17. Grown and eaten your own vegetables
18. Touched an iceberg
19. Slept under the stars
20. Changed a baby's diaper
21. Taken a trip in a hot air balloon
22. Watched a meteor shower
23. Gotten drunk on champagne
24. Given more than you can afford to charity
25. Looked up at the night sky through a telescope
26. Had an uncontrollable giggling fit at the worst possible moment
27. Had a food fight
28. Bet on a winning horse
29. Asked out a stranger
30. Had a snowball fight
31. Screamed as loudly as you possibly can
32. Held a lamb
33. Seen a total eclipse
34. Ridden a roller coaster
35. Hit a home run
36. Danced like a fool and not cared who was looking
37. Adopted an accent for an entire day
38. Actually felt happy about your life, even for just a moment
39. Had two hard drives for your computer
40. Visited all 50 states
41. Taken care of someone who was drunk
42. Had amazing friends
43. Danced with a stranger in a foreign country
44. Watched wild whales
45. Stolen a sign. Does a fraternity flag count?
46. Backpacked in Europe
47. Taken a road-trip
48. Gone rock climbing
49. Midnight walk on the beach
50. Gone sky diving
51. Visited Ireland
52. Been heartbroken longer then you were actually in love
53. In a restaurant, sat at a stranger's table and had a meal with them
54. Visited Japan
55. Milked a cow
56. alphabetized your cd's
57. Pretended to be a superhero
58. Sung karaoke
59. Lounged around in bed all day
60. Posed nude in front of strangers
61. Gone scuba diving
62. Kissed in the rain
63. Played in the mud
64. Played in the rain
65. Gone to a drive-in theater
66. Visited the Great Wall of China
67. Started a business
68. Fallen in love and not had your heart broken
69. Toured ancient sites
70. Taken a martial arts class
71. Played D&D for more than 6 hours straight
72. Gotten married
73. Been in a movie
74. Crashed a party
75. Gotten divorced
76. Gone without food for 5 days
77. Made cookies from scratch
78. Won first prize in a costume contest
79. Ridden a gondola in Venice
80. Gotten a tattoo
81. Rafted the Snake River
82. Been on television news programs as an "expert"
83. Got flowers for no reason
84. Performed on stage... On ice?
85. Been to Las Vegas
86. Recorded music
87. Eaten shark
88. Had a one-night stand
89. Gone to Thailand
90. Bought a house
91. Been in a combat zone
92. Buried one of your parents
93. Been on a cruise ship
94. Spoken more than one language fluently
95. Performed in Rocky Horror.
96. Raised children.
97. Followed your favorite band/singer on tour
98. Created and named your own constellation of stars
99. Taken an exotic bicycle tour in a foreign country- actually it was a Mike's Bike Tour in Munich
100. Picked up and moved to another city to just start over
101. Walked the Golden Gate Bridge
102. Sang loudly in the car, and didn't stop when you knew someone was looking
103. Had plastic surgery
104. Survived an illness that you shouldn't have survived
105. Wrote articles for a large publication
106. Lost over 100 pounds
107. Held someone while they were having a flashback
108. Piloted an airplane
109. Petted a stingray
110. Broken someone's heart
111. Helped an animal give birth
112. Won money on a T.V. game show
113. Broken a bone
114. Gone on an African photo safari
115. Had a body part of yours below the neck pierced
116. Fired a rifle, shotgun, or pistol
117. Eaten mushrooms that were gathered in the wild
118. Ridden a horse
119. Had major surgery
120. Had a snake as a pet
121. Hiked to the bottom of the Grand Canyon
122. Slept for more than 30 hours over the course of 48 hours
123. Visited more foreign countries than U.S. states
124. Visited all 7 continents
125. Taken a canoe trip that lasted more than 2 days
126. Eaten kangaroo meat
127. Eaten sushi
128. Had your picture in the newspaper
129. Changed someone's mind about something you care deeply about
130. Gone back to school
131. Parasailed
132. Petted a cockroach
133. Eaten fried green tomatoes
134. Read The Iliad - and the Odyssey
135. Selected one "important" author who you missed in school, and read
136. Killed and prepared an animal for eating
137. Skipped all your school reunions
138. Communicated with someone without sharing a common spoken language
139. Been elected to public office
140. Written your own computer language
141. Thought to yourself that you're living your dream
142. Had to put someone you love into hospice care
143. Built your own PC from parts
144. Sold your own artwork to someone who didn't know you
145. Had a booth at a street fair
146. Dyed your hair
147: Been a DJ
148: Shaved your head
149: Caused a car accident
150: Saved someone's life

Ripped from News of the wierd headlines...

2006-09-27T11:45:00.000-04:00

NO CAPES! (1st person to name that movie gets a prize!)

"The guy in the Ronald Reagan mask who robbed a Bank of America in San Diego in August got away, but all his money was dye-stained, in a caper that went wrong from the start. According to police, the mask covered his eyes; he wore a cape that tangled with his gun, causing him to drop it; his getaway car got blocked in by a delivery truck; he rammed the truck to get away, provoking an argument with the driver; the dye pack exploded; and the mask and gun got left behind. (2) Twice in a week in August, gangs (or maybe the same gang) of bank robbers in Kuala Terengganu, Malaysia, tried to haul away an ATM. In the first, they mistakenly yanked loose a check-depositing machine instead of the ATM, and in the second, their excavator's digging arm got stuck in the bank's ceiling. [San Diego Union-Tribune, 8- 29-06] [Reuters, 8-15-06]"

RAOK post

2006-09-20T10:50:00.000-04:00

If you came to the website to post a message in order to nominate someone for a RAOK, you need to write an email- not post the message on the blog. Check the email from the RAOK webring, and you'll find my email. Toodles.

WANTED: quality knitting time

2006-09-18T11:33:00.000-04:00

I'm onto row 120 of the lace march at this point... not big news- but I did manage to spin some merino this past weekend. I would call it "lovely" but it was an ebay purchase from a new supplier... who managed to lightly felt the roving when dyeing it. And by lightly, I mean more than I manage to do to my own dyed roving. So it was bad. There are lots of lumps, quite a few overtwisted sections, and the whole shebang is overtwisted- and usually I'm so good at balancing a yarn. Argh.

Oh well- at least the color patterning stayed bright and interesting. (I'll post a picture when my computer gets back from sickbay) It's mostly blues and purples, in a barberpole fashion- I basically split the roving in 2 and spun the color changes in order.

mmm- new knitting!

2006-09-12T11:38:00.000-04:00

I just saw the new Knitty... and I must have this!
Notice the fact that it's lace. I am enamored.

Even though I am in row 110 of the Moon Dance stole (I was stalled because of work at school) I can see myself knitting Serrano, and wearing it all the time- isn't it funny how patterns make you imagine them? But I'd have to find a substitute yarn... mohair gives me the itchies. And the yarn called for- Schaefer Yarns Anne- is 25% mohair.

So basically I'm on the lookout for a superwash merino (blends are ok) with a gauge of 28 stitches and 36 rows = 4 inches in stockinette stitch, unblocked and
21 stitches and 32 rows = 4 inches in stockinette stitch, blocked.

:)

2006-09-03T15:27:00.000-04:00

another picture- this one you can really see how loose the stitches are.

2006-09-03T15:26:00.000-04:00

100 Rows! - it's 10 inches long, and 17-18 inces wide... which makes me thing that although the pattern calls for 400 rows, I'm going to need at least 500. (sigh) at least I'm 1/5 of the way done!

not enough knitting is going on around here

2006-08-29T14:14:00.000-04:00

So basically- I'm totally overwhelmed with school, activities, work and other responsibilities. I want a vacation. Yeah- that's me... I want a vacation at the 2nd week of school. :P

And not a measly 3 day vacation- the kind normal people get for Labor Day (no, I don't have it off- I have school) I want a mega vacation- the week long, sleep in, tv watching, knitting, spinning extravaganza of a vacation. That would be great. Although truthfully, I'd probably end up using my vacation to catch up on work.

grr. I have to get back to work now. Maybe I can teach myself to knit in my sleep, a la the Yarn Harlot. :) that would be great. Actually, I'd even take dreaming about knitting. That would be great

2006-08-29T14:11:00.000-04:00

This is the lace shawl after 55 rows... goodbye chart A! - I'm almost through the 1st repeat too. :) obviously, I've figured out how to knit with a bandaid on. I am a little concerned that the lace is too loose- but it's too late for that! Actually, I think I prefer the looser, lace look- at least for this project.

2006-08-29T14:09:00.000-04:00

This is the lace shortly after I cut my finger

D'oh!

2006-08-05T11:14:00.000-04:00

Just as I was getting into the lace groove... I sliced the tip of my left index finger cutting bread. Two stitches... 2 weeks without knitting. It figures!

Although, this doesn't prevent me from buying new supplies.... Stitches Midwest is next weekend!

Whoo hoo! that's better than painkillers!

:)

Back to the Beginning...

2006-08-03T11:22:00.000-04:00

I've swatched for the lovely Moon Dance shawl, and my swatch came out very nicely (I'll post pictures later)

Basically- I have 2 options; I can make the shawl 20 inches wide (if I follow the pattern) or 16 inches wide (if I drop one repeat)
Guess which way I'm leaning? Heh. Not only will it save some time- which is much needed.... but then the back of the shawl won't hang quite so low on the dress that I've bought, reducing the possibility of snagging.

So the question is.... is 16 inches too short? I don't think so, but then again, I've never made a shawl before.

Drum Roll please...

2006-08-02T09:32:00.000-04:00

I've decided which pattern I'm going to use.
After much thought, I changed my mind, and decided to go with a stole pattern instead of a shawl.

So I've picked "Moon Dance" by Pink Lemon Twist- picture available at http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7587/824/1600/moondance.jpg

Isn't it pretty!

Now I just have to convince my mother that it's normal for brides to wear shawls at the reception. She's not convinced. Heh.

Look what I found!

2006-07-21T13:00:00.000-04:00

I was taking E's advice, and looking for Myrna Stahman's book, and I stumbled across a bio for her - she is apparently not only an accomplished knitter, but also an accomplished (retired)attorney. Someone to admire, for sure.

Pasted from the site...

The First 50 Women in Idaho Law
MYRNA ANNE ITZEN STAHMAN
October 3, 1974

Myrna Anne Itzen Stahman was born in Wheaton, Minnesota, where her parents were grain farmers. She is the fifth of six children. Stahman attended Hamline University and graduated from the University of Minnesota, Morris, earning a B.A. with distinction. In 1967, she married Robert Stahman. She and Bob served in the Peace Corp in Liberia, West Africa, from 1968-70.

Upon her return to the United States, Stahman enrolled at the University of Idaho College of Law. After graduating from law school in 1974, both she and Bob joined the Army. Stahman served in the Judge Advocate Generals Corps, Third Armored Division in Frankfurt, Germany and was one of the first 25 female Army JAGC attorneys. While in Germany, Stahman’s daughter Kayla was born. Kayla, following her mother’s example, is now a graduate of Stanford Law School and is practicing law in Washington, D.C. A son, Jeff, was born after the Stahman family moved to Boise. Jeff, a graduate of Kansas State University, interned in golf course management in New Zealand, sharing his mother’s interests in distant people and places.

In 1977, Stahman moved to Boise and went to work at the Idaho Attorney General’s Office, starting in the Consumer Protection Division. In 1981, Stahman transferred to the Criminal Division Appellate Unit of the Idaho Attorney General’s Office, a position she held for 24 years until her retirement in November 2004. During the course of her long career at the Attorney General’s Office she received published appellate opinions in 580 cases and hundreds more unpublished opinions. Over that same time frame, she taught numerous classes at the bi-annual Idaho Prosecuting Attorneys meetings and at the annual judicial education meetings for district and magistrate judges.

In 1996, Stahman enjoyed a special assignment in Washington, D.C. as a Supreme Court Fellow with the National Association of Attorneys General. During her fellowship she had the opportunity to attend all United States Supreme Court arguments and assisted states attorneys preparing for oral arguments before the Supreme Court. Shortly after her return to Idaho she wrote an amicus curie brief on a case of interest to the development of criminal law in Idaho.

Stahman is an accomplished knitter, specializing in lacy shawls. She is frequently invited to teach knitting classes all around the United States and has also spent time in New Zealand and Australia working with wool growers and knitters. Stahman not only knits shawls, but she also designs patterns. In 2000, she published Stahman’s Shawls and Scarves: Lace Faroese-Shaped Shawls From the Neck Down and Seaman’s Scarves, a collection of her original designs. Her second book, Variations on a Theme will likely be published in 2005.

Stahman is a long-time advocate for young people and for women in the Boise community. She has been active in the Girl Scouts and in school literacy programs; she has gathered contributions for the Women’s and Children’s Alliance, and lent her hand to those attempting to improve services to victims of domestic violence throughout the state. She is an active member of the Zonta Club, an international service organization focused on improving the status of women worldwide. Several years ago Stahman designed a dressing wire kit for knitters, which has been manufactured and sold nationwide by the Boise Zonta Club ever since, with proceeds funding several international service projects, including a scholarship at the Lester B. Pearson World College. Stahman’s ingenuity did not stop there, however. Approximately a year ago, she developed a service project in which the Boise Zonta Club purchased looms in New Zealand and had them shipped to Chrissiemeer, South Africa. There, a skilled and dedicated spinner/knitter/weaver teaches native South Africans to spin, weave, and knit; skills they use to support their families.

In addition to all the accomplishments summarized above, Stahman is a steadfast friend to many people. Her unwavering support has helped a lot of individuals through the hard times of their lives.

Reflecting on Stahman’s life and career, former Idaho Supreme Court Justice Robert Bakes says:

Myrna Stahman was a product of the 1970s. She was one of those dedicated idealists who committed themselves to public service. She served several years in the Peace Corps in Africa, and then came to Boise were she was Assistant Attorney General handling criminal appeals before the Supreme Court. She handled dozens of criminal cases before the Supreme Court, and was a strong law and order advocate for the prosecution. As a result she often disagreed with, and engaged in spirited arguments with Justice Bistline, who was an advocate for the rights of the criminal defendant. To her credit, Myrna stood her ground and was not intimidated by questions from the Justices.

Stahman retired from the practice of law on November 1, 2004 and lives in Boise.

looking for suggestions

2006-07-19T14:55:00.000-04:00

I've made a decision.... I'm going to be making a wedding shawl. This may turn out to be a dubious decision, but so be it.

I'm asking for your help in deciding which shawl to make- actually, I'm looking for your favorite shawl patterns.

Here's what I'm looking for...
1. a lace-weight shawl that will look good in ivory (I've already bought it-merino!)

2. something not too long(hitting mid to lower back)- so either the pattern is easily modified, or it is already shorter

3. a pattern with some patterning, but not too over the top- while I want people to ooo and ah over the shawl, it should not be so complicated that people try to interpret the "story" i.e. the beautiful Pacific Northwest/ Southwest shawl patterns.

4. I might be easily convinced if the shawl was faroese-styled, that is, there is shaping in the shoulder to help the shawl stay on (I have problems with keeping wraps/shawls on!) Of course- this is not mandatory, since I could get a clasp of some sort too.

I'll post a list of shawls that I'm considering tommorow... but until then, brainstorm away!

2006-07-13T01:23:00.000-04:00

Hooray! I bought my wedding dress! (and we have a date, a place, a reception place and a band) Not bad, eh?

Anyway- see some of you on Sunday at the knitting meeting! Or at Erica's sale
:D

Finally... more knitting related writing!

2006-07-03T13:10:00.000-04:00

It had been a while since I had knit- I was working on a crocheted white and yellow baby blanket that was started because it was somewhat mindless knitting, but now just bores me to tears after I do about 4-5 rows on it. The good news is that it's finally a square, so maybe another few movies, and it'll be done!

Yesterday I went to the Taste of Chicago- yes, I braved it on a SUNDAY- because some friends from SB took the train up. We walked around, ate lots of tasty (expensive) food, and generally enjoyed ourselves. Plus I got to make fun of a perky country band... ahhh, it was a wonderful day.

But the best part was the train ride. Some of you may recall last summer... a vertible knitting extravaganza- with new projects finished in mere weeks, if not days! That was because I took the train downtown for work everyday. Not anymore, and boy, do I miss it! Instead I drive my commute, and by the time I've worked out and get home, it's dinner, some wedding planning and then bed. Ok- by "planning" I mean surfing the net to look at dresses. Sometimes flowers. But mostly dresses.

But yesterday, on the train, I finally turned the heel and finished the decreases on my little blue lacey sock. You know the one... from Spring Break!
Forget second sock syndrome... I've apparently contracted decreasitis.

Have a Happy Fourth!

This woman is my hero

2006-06-16T10:50:00.000-04:00

I want a knit ferrari!

http://www.ananova.com/news/story/sm_1879263.html?menu=

I've been a bad blogger

2006-06-14T09:10:00.000-04:00

But a worse knitter. I swear, I have not knit at all since I got home- but in fairness, I finally got all my work for the semester wrapped up. It took long enough!

anyway- FI is doing an incredible amount of work for planning- We both have "planning" personalities, and our tastes are similar enough that everything isn't going to be a compromise (whew!) His sister asked him "isn't the bride supposed to do most of that?" lol- I guess I'm busier, so he's jumped into the process with me. So I'm pretty grateful.

I've also joined the Evanston Athletic Club- a great gym with tons of classes, and a really cheap student rate. I (heart) EAC!

Oh my god- how did they know?

2006-06-07T13:26:00.000-04:00

You're Brazil!

You're athletic, charming, and probably a good dancer.
Unfortunately, you don't really mind chopping down the rain forest, and you probably
consider homeless people expendable in certain circumstances. Of course, your
personality is so diverse that it's hard to track down exactly what you're like. You
definitely like Pele, the World Cup, and shouting "gooooal" at the
top of your lungs.

Take the Country Quiz
at the Blue Pyramid

Surprise!

2006-06-05T16:22:00.000-04:00

The BF and I are engaged! I guess now I should call him the FI?

:D

I actually was the one who set up the weekend engagement, it was meant to be a sort-of surprise. We went ring shopping last week, and he thought it would be fun to be proposed to, and I agreed. (I hate surprises, he loves them)
So I told him it might take me the summer to plan (hee hee)
and I told him we were going to go downtown for my birthday, to a german Mayfest (beer, brats and pretzels-mmmm) and we did go, but then after heading back to the hotel we went to Belmont Harbor and went out on a 30 foot sailboat with 3 other passengers and a captain. The sailboat then went out to Navy Pier, and the captain sailed the boat around a bit, and that's when we went up to the front of the boat (the water was much calmer then) and asked each other and broke open the champane Chris bought (very nice stuff). Then we watched the Saturday night fireworks from what seemed to be only 200 yards away from the barge the fireworks were being shot off from. Very cool. The night wasn't a total surprise though, he sort of guessed at what was going on that Thursday, and as the weekend went on, he guessed more and more. But it was lovely and romantic and fun. YAY!

Ignore the dust bunnies in my knitting please

2006-05-28T20:56:00.000-04:00

So there isn't much knitting happening here. In my defense, there's lots of other stuff going on. Exciting stuff. Stuff that I can't tell you about yet. Don't you hate me ;)

I'm back home for the summer, stash and ongoing projects in hand, and will be starting work after Memorial day. Wheee! I mean it. I'm actually really excited about my job this summer.

Anyway... I'm hoping that I can get some other stuff straightened out, and then knitting will be allowed to occur again. Really.

And I'll tell you about the exciting stuff in another post. In the future. I'm not sure exactly when, but probably about a month. :)

Just to head off this consideration (or fear-M), no, I'm not pregnant.

hi there

2006-05-20T10:21:00.000-04:00

Hi everyone,
I've decided that my hiatus is over... I still have two papers to write for finals, but this shouldn't interfere with that too much.

Anyway, there's no new knitting, mostly because there is frenized packing, and I am making the decision about what knitting to bring home- soooo difficult. It is somewhat eased by the fact that this year I'll be driving to work, instead of taking the train, so I won't have as much knitting time. :(

projects I'm defintely bringing home for the summer
1. blue lace sock
2. squiggly pink baby blanket
3. mock lace rib tank (I'm up to the armpits on this one, literally!)
4. white and yellow crochet baby blanket
5. white and blue cotton jacket- I still haven't sewn it together

I'm bring three categories of books/magazines home
1. clothing for me
2. clothing for babies and kids
3. specialty- toys and edgings

If you're wondering why I've got more baby blankets in the works, and books taken home, I've got some good news...
One of my older sisters had her second child last week, a little boy named Joseph. That makes three nephews and one niece, and quite a bit of knitting.

2006-04-28T21:37:00.000-04:00

This is Wooly Bully... talk amongst yourselves.

I'm scheduling a hiatus

2006-04-24T15:53:00.000-04:00

Sorry everyone, there's a lot of stuff going on right now, so I'll be taking a break. I may post a few pictures of knitting that I've done, but no promises.
See you all in May

:)

2006-04-16T14:41:00.000-04:00

And finally- this cute little sheep was a present from the boyfriend's mom... Isn't he just the cutest thing you ever saw? It kinda makes me wish I wasn't allergic to everything and could raise sheep. so cute. Happy Easter everyone! (And thanks again J)

2006-04-16T14:39:00.000-04:00

oops- before I forget, here's the update on my work shell. I'm sort of winging the sleeves, and not taking notes, because the shape of the back is not anything like the front. Wish me luck :)

2006-04-16T14:38:00.000-04:00

Here's the cast-on... but the color is all wrong- it's really a spring green, not minty.

2006-04-16T14:37:00.000-04:00

I gave up the unending in- between project for this. Ignore the crazy looking kid from the fifties and focus on the cute cardigan. I'm making it in the 1 year old size for my nephew in Switzerland. He's only 3 months old right now.... you might ask WHY am I starting this now? Well... I got the cutest picture in my email - my nephew wrapped in the baby blanket I made for him. MUST...KNIT... MORE!

2006-04-16T14:34:00.000-04:00

Happy Easter! For today's celebration, I've decided to post my progress on a number of different projects that I've neglected to update you on....let's start with the familiar- you probably recognize this baby blanket from a few posts months back. It's my in-between project, the one I can only work on a few repeats at a time before I start cursing it's existence. You know what I mean. This time I made it through 2 1/2 repeats (hot pink section, white, hot pink, light pink, hot pink and white) And now I've started a new project.Oh unconstant heart!

it's been a while

2006-04-10T16:48:00.000-04:00

Yesterday I went to the Sunday knitting guild... very fun! It was actually a smaller group than normal, which I really liked.

I haven't finished seaming the jacket yet... or worked on the lace sock lately. But I did bring the pink and white squiggly baby blanket. It's my in-between project, for when I am burnt out on other projects.

I have a little story though...
I was knitting in public. I can't remember where though, so that's a little strange- but it was probably at the law school in between classes or in another area. And this middle aged lady walked by me and said "that's a good thing to do with your hands" and just kept walking. It was a little amusing, since she didn't actually say it to me... just commented out loud and kept moving. I'm always surprised about how so many people have some comment.

Knitting on TV- another sighting

2006-04-02T22:04:00.000-04:00

AUGH! on Gray's Anatomy knitting made a big appearance- unfortunately, knitting is popular as a celibacy helper. Please.

more to come later... one of the commercials showed a whole roomful of interns knitting.

New Look for ND

2006-04-01T13:30:00.000-05:00

Notre Dame has decided to cover the golden dome during the winter months using a knit covering for several reasons. Initially the decision was made in order protect the gold flake from the elements. Additional benefits include a decrease in heating costs, new merchandising oppourtunities for the ND Bookstore (complete with matching scarf and mittens upon request). Matching robe for Mary will be unveiled during Graduation in May 2006.

2006-03-27T10:23:00.000-05:00

The jacket wasn't finished this weekend, but this cute little hat was! The 2 flowers are actually pins, so the wearer can wear whatever flower she feels like, or none at all if so inclined. Augh! I've been writing too many law related papers. Anyway... part of the jacket collar is done, and some seaming happened too this weekend. But I did discover that the sleeves were too short, so the cast off rows have been unraveled and are waiting for another inch or two. Maybe next weekend...

2006-03-23T09:35:00.000-05:00

and here's the unblocked, unfinished, uncollared jacket... maybe this weekend. Or maybe not. There's lots going on.

2006-03-23T09:33:00.000-05:00

Belated picture alert! Here's the body shot of the shrug.... and you can actually see the pin- it's really enamel, not rhinestones. :)

so scatterbrained

2006-03-21T11:38:00.000-05:00

today I walked out of the house with a project- but the wrong one. It's a new project, so new in fact that I've only made the swatch, which would normally be ok, but I haven't washed and blocked the swatch, so starting the new project (a hat) will have to wait a day or two.
But that's ok- because I've got some reading to do.

Current WIP's
1. denimstyle jacket- needs blocking, seaming, a collar and more seaming. Yes, in that order
2. blue sock #1- I'm still in the gusset decreases, but it's so pretty!
3. new hat- coral colored, with a pink ribbon yarn flower

I really feel the need to spin too. Maybe I'll do a little tonight.

By the way- Sarah, I can't meet tonight, because there is a community meeting for the Family Justice Center(a new center meant to create access to many agencies for domestic violence victims in one building).

7pm at the Hesburgh auditorium if anyone else is interested- this is a South Bend issue.

2006-03-19T09:34:00.000-05:00

Sorry Melissa, but I've been in Aruba with my parents.... I miss it already (sigh)
I had a really great time there, mostly basking (I mean burning) in the sun, catching up on my Jurisprudence reading, snorkeling, and even a little windsurfing :) don't you hate me now?

of course, I got some knitting done... I'm all finished with the pieces of my latest Knitty sweater jacket- minus the collar and finishing. I'll post a few pictures when I get back to the Bend. I also turned the heel on my first lacy sock. I'm knitting lacy socks on size 1's. Unfortunately, I can only work on it a few hours at a time, because my eyes start swimming.

Sarah and E- I'll see you both at the next Tuesday... which is not this upcoming week, but the following- right? Maybe I'll see you at the Sunday meeting first though.

Stephanie- thanks for the encouragement- they both made it in on time, and both were coherent. I'm one of those people who procrastinate for a while, and then want to edit the paper 5-10 times, so I generally get a little crunched for time.

Melissa- here's your post! call me :)

2006-03-06T10:07:00.000-05:00

hmm... it's been a little while since I last posted. Not a whole ton has been going on.
my sister loved the shrug...

I've also started 2 new knitting projects. One is a lace sock (for ME!)... on a pair of size 1's! The other is a knitty jacket- also for me

But really, I have 2 papers due this week- so that's what I'm trying to concentrate on. I'll try to publish a picture or two later.
:)

2006-02-28T10:17:00.000-05:00

Tuesday night at Lula's Cafe- 6pm! see you there :)

things that make you go...

2006-02-22T14:11:00.000-05:00

hmmmm. (alternatively titled "the boring knit sucks me in")

The Yarn Harlot posted today about her Olympic knitting. But what was really interesting to me was a particular phrase she used... "invisible progress."

Duh! That's why the boring shrug was so frustrating and well... boring!
Obviously, if I can knit a baby blanket pattern with a little bit of lace (which was almost double the area) without wanting to destroy the project once, then I maybe I can modify the shrug pattern a bit... just enough to knit it once more. hmm.

I've been sucked in! But first, I have other projects to work on.

1. starting a pair of lace socks
2. own pattern for work top
3. crochet squares for tank

2006-02-22T10:04:00.001-05:00

the baby blanket is finished! (I was really sick yesterday, so I spent hours knitting, and well... these two projects were close to finished anyways)

2006-02-22T10:04:00.000-05:00

close up of the stitch pattern. It still doesn't look like it does in daylight though.

2006-02-21T14:54:00.000-05:00

And here's the boring knit... all finished! It's very cute, but much smaller than I am, so an action shot wouldn't look right. We'll see if the sister will be okay with sending me a picture to put online. :) aww, it's so pretty I kinda want to make another one for myself. MUST LOOK AWAY!

2006-02-21T14:51:00.000-05:00

I finished another skein in the baby blanket... I think it's about 30 inches- maybe another 2-3 diamonds and it'll be a square.

Circular shrug links

2006-02-19T18:37:00.000-05:00

Here's the link to the Craftster shrug pattern... it's based on an Urban Outfitters shrug (not Anthropologie like I thought... and you'll have to read the directions from the handwritten notes and then also the following posts by the designer.

here's a clear version by the designer- http://momcast.blogspot.com/2006/01/craftster-circular-shrug.html

here's the 48 page discussion in case you want to read others' experiences http://www.craftster.org/forum/index.php?topic=45597.30

basically- measure across your shoulders. Add 4-5 inches to that number. Figure out gauge in a mock rib pattern. That is the number of stitches for the main body of the shrug. Double that number for cast on.

Cast on, rib for 5 inches.(**to make the ribbing meet in front, especially if you have a large chest, you'll want to add a few inches to the top and bottom of the pattern) Decrease by half, continue in mock rib for 20 inches, increase to original cast on #, rib for 5 inches, cast off. Sew the ribbing on the top right to bottom right, top left to bottom left, and sew into the mock rib patter 2-3 inches. Check out the link to understand how it's sewn together, since it has pictures.

Here's a link to a variation with lace and sleeves... and an Indiana knitter!
http://knit4freedom.blogspot.com/2006/01/romantic-poet-sweater.html

ANOTHER circular shrug pattern can be found at http://www.gleek.net/patterns.php
It is a retooled version of the yesterknits.org pattern. Very chic.... and an easy knit, since it is a T- shaped piece of knitting, and the shaping happens when it gets sewn together

2006-02-19T11:52:00.000-05:00

I went home on Friday for an interview... now I have a summer job- YAY! I'll be defending juvenile offenders, and working with an organization to set up a youth court in a middle school. I'm really excited.

In actual knitting news...
The knitting on the sister's shrug is FINISHED! WHOOOHOOO! The bad news? My mother LOVES it and wants one for herself. When I told her how boring of a knit it is, she first said that she could wait a year. ha. Then she said maybe it's a good excuse for her to relearn to knit. YES! We have a conversion!

(after I seam it up I'll get pictures out)
On the trip back to the Bend, I also managed to get a few rows on the lavendar baby blanket. I'd say it's almost halfway finished... so I'm on schedule to start ignoring it.
:)

sexist reality tv shows exist elsewhere besides USA... SHOCKING!

2006-02-16T19:52:00.000-05:00

I have a secret.... I hate certain reality shows- with a vengenance. Except for maybe the Biggest Loser. And Project Runway. Gillian and Tim are such bitches... I love them

anyway.

A British reality show... Ladettes to Ladies... ran this past summer. The girls were judged on all they have learnt at the Finishing School - cookery, flower arranging, dressmaking, deportment and elocution Â in front of an audience of families, friends and some eligible bachelors. The first prize is a sports car worth over Â£20,000.

They even had to make corsets... and then wear them at a cocktail party with theligiblele bachelors.

at least they didn't give the women massive amounts of plastic surgery, or run a pathetic dating show for gold diggers.

Found: New Knitting time!

2006-02-16T07:47:00.000-05:00

So I'm down to 2 1/2 inches.... I'm almost done (and then I get to seam)
But you may ask- "Kristine, where did you get the time? You are a busy law student aren't you"

"Why yes," I'd answer... but the secret is my Valentine's Day present.
You see, the bf got me a Sony Psyc mp3 player for Vday.... it was a great surprise, since I totally didn't expect it AT ALL! It's super light and fits in the palm of my hand- perfect for running (which is why I was going to get one for myself)

I guess that doesn't explain the additional knitting time, does it? The found time was from my computer first needing 2 years worth of Microsoft updates... heh, my bad. Thanks babe. He sat watching my computer for somewhere around 4 hours. heh.
The second source of found time (and the continuing source) was from copying cd's onto my laptop and then transfering those cd's over to the mp3 player... it takes a little while(about 5-7 minutes per cd), but I'm ok with that, since I've got 2 1/2 inches of shrug left!

Knit lunch today at the law school- email me if you're in the area and must meet the lawknitters.
:)

Worst idea ever....

2006-02-13T09:13:00.000-05:00

for all you knitting junkies; I'm down to less than 5 inches... whohoo!
if you're not interested in non-knitting content, look away.

for all you law blog interested people, especially you law students, let us learn a lesson from Julie Auer. Miss Auer wrote a sarcastic and (funny) letter to the sheriff's office. Not a big deal right? Wrong. She works for the public defender. oops. Miss Auer- many of your clients spend time in that jail... do not, I repeat, do not antagonize the people who hold the key. seriously.

you should really read Julie's letter

and then the sheriff's response.

oh. Burn.

Update- apparently Miss Auer has been a public defender since 1990.... and perhaps more interestingly, she belongs to the Knoxville Writer's Guild, and she writes about the darker side of crime and punishment.... follow the link to her profile http://www.knoxvillewritersguild.org/auer.htm

still knitting... honest

2006-02-12T15:46:00.000-05:00

I'm just knitting along, row by row... some more on the lavender blanket, and more on the black shrug.

it's like a freaking marathon... or a battery... it just keeps going and going and going.

:P

8 inches left on the black shrug. That's what I'm focusing on first.
8 more inches. it just feels like eternity

2006-02-07T17:55:00.000-05:00

1/3 of the lavender baby blanket