knittingnurse

Gotta get those Monkey's done

2008-05-15T07:35:00.000-07:00

I have all my "goodies" for my pal, but not done with the sock yet... It's is knitting up very well. I happened to get a partner who I know and I messed up when I sent her the "secret e-mail" and she knew who I was... So we have just been having fun with it... She works for the same school system and we see each other, so I have been taking advantage of inter-office mail and nurse's meetings. I gave her a skein of Opal cotton and she has already made a pair of socks with it..she's amazing.. I finished up my daugher's prayer shawl just in time for her confirmation. Whew, it was close.. I also finished a pair of socks for my dear MIL in the Opal cotton. Then the Monkey's went on. I had forgotten how much I really do like this pattern. I am also doing a vanilla sock for me with some Jitterbug yarn and I am really enjoying that also. I have started a log cabin throw for my niece for her wedding in October. I love the colors I have picked out. I want to get a couple more pair of socks done and then I will spend more time on it. I am a bit of a procrastinator. Baseball and Softball season has started for my two younger children , so much knitting time can be had with at the ball diamond.. that's definitely a sock project. School is over in three weeks. It's hard to believe. My summer will be spent having knee replacement surgery and rehabbing the knees. I really do see knitting in my future though.. Hope your knitting projects are going well...

It's Opal's Fault really!!

2008-04-25T07:16:00.001-07:00

I mean really.. who comes out with new Opal yarn in cotton with beautiful colors and expects a girl to get anything done? So one sock is done and the other one started. I have however promised myself that it will not be touched until my daughter's prayer shawl is done. Of course I can be that firm because I only have until May 2nd to get it done and it's really really close. I would say I am 1/3 of the way done and the best part is it is knitting up pretty quickly and I like how it is turning out!! The other Opal sock is going to be a present for my MIL and I want to have it done by Mother's day as it was promised to her on her birthday, December 28th. I am also getting her a pair of Crocs so I thought that would be a cool gift together. Then my monkey sock goes on the needles...

On the home front, my daughther had her 14th birthday yesterday... I told her her "birth" story like I do every year and this year she rolled her eyes at me and told me some of the story.. Hey I live through it, I oughta be able to talk about it. Confirmation next week and then maybe things will slow down just a little... Last day of school is June 2nd and is going to be here before you know it!! Happy knitting to all !!!!

Commit me!!

2008-04-21T07:36:00.001-07:00

I have joined three sock clubs and also sign up regularly for Wool Girl's Charlie Brown and Hello Kitty sock kits... Don't even ask me how much sock yarn I have... But I have to say that Wool Girl is my favorite by far. Her personal touch makes all the difference and so enjoy her packages. That being said... I think next year I will only join one sock club and it will be Wool Girl!! I bought some Opal Cotton.. I love it. The design, the feel. It is so much softer than regular Opal. I can't put it down and I need to work on my daughter's prayer shawl. Just got a note that we are having a surprise baby shower for three staff here on Thursday. Don't see any knitted items coming there way in three days. Oh well. The weather has motivated the family to do some spring cleaning and yesterday was spent outside. Much raking and weeding and mulching and some flower planting was done. It's really to early for most flowers here in northeast Indiana, but pansies are pretty hardy and always are my first flowers. 32 bags of mulch was laid and I only did one. I actually spent most of the day inside doing laundry; dishes, and going through piles of "stuff" that just seems to collect at our house. My husband fixed my swing and I believe tonight I shall have to knit, drink wine and swing... Something I am much looking forward to. It's my daughter's birthday Thursday, She will be 14... I am so very proud of her and look forward to spoiling her... Hope it's warm and sunny wherever you are!!

Spring Breakitis

2008-04-07T06:45:00.000-07:00

Wow, I have been MIA... Had Spring Break last week and although I promised myself to just not do anything. It was very busy. Part of the reason is that it was also my birthday and there was lots of lunches/dinners with family and friends. My youngest had a sleepover for his birhtday also during the week. The highlight of my trip was going to Lansing, MI to visit a store called Threadbare Yarns. It was WONDERFUL. One of my friends and I did a day trip and spent over 2 hours at the store. If you can go there.. do. It's fantastic. I asked for moolah for my birthday so that I could not feel so bad about blowing a wad of money there. They were also having their Spring sale at the same time. I have to remember to do more yarn store road trips. This last weekend was gorgeous so we headed up to the cottage and put in the peir, raked the yarn and planted grass seed. We also found out we burst a water pipe when my husband tried to turn the water back on. So that is next week's project. On the knitting front, I finished my Claudias and started my January Socks that Rock project. I did not do the pattern sent with them. I am doing the RPM pattern from Knitty. They are turning out great. I really like them. Also started a prayer shawl for my daughter's confirmation on May 2nd. That needs to become my priority that is for sure. It's gorgeous out today also...

another FO

2008-03-28T09:28:00.001-07:00

I finished my cable beaded mittens last night!! Woo hoo! I had about 2-3 hours left on them and I just decided they were getting done... It was supposed to be cold in the am and it was... so the perfect time to finish them. I LOVE them. I will start in the summer sometime my own cable beaded scarf to match the hat and the mittens. I really like knitting with the Dream in Color Classy.. it just flies off the needles.. I am going to be on Spring break so I am setting some knitting goals along with some house duty goals along with some friend time goals.. The week will go fast... It's my birthday the 1st of April and I am asking for molah because my friend and I are going to a huge yarn store in Lansing, MI and I am looking to buy, buy yarn.. I just bought a ball winder. You would think with all the sock yarn I have, I would have bought one by now. I can't wait until it gets here. I am going to wind, wind, wind... OH my knitting goals. Finish my Claudia socks in Jill's pink ( an awesome color), restart and finish a pair of mittens for my friend by the time we go out to supper on the 3rd.. ( they are her belated Christmas present), start my daughter's prayer shawl for her confirmation, start my STR March Sock club socks...when I finish with the mittens, I will also begin my monkey pal socks... so many many goals. There's nothing like finishing a project though...OH and somehow I didn't get signed up for the Spring Fling Coffee Swap. Boo Hoo. I just took it as a sign from God that I have enough to do...

Am I supposed to be this busy?

2008-03-26T07:07:00.001-07:00

It's my youngest child's birthday today. He is 12.. this is his last year in elementary school.. I shall miss the Winter and Spring pageants, parties, and just having one teacher. He opened his presents last night because today was so busy.. He got a MP3 player and was very happy. We made chocolate chip cookies to take for his last treat at school. Tonight we have religious education and that takes up most of our night. We filled about 100 Easter eggs for my first graders so they could have an Easter Egg Hunt... I'll be glad when tonight is over!! I have not had much time for knitting... this saddens me.. I have so much to get done. However Spring break starts this weekend.. so hello knitting needles and projects.. I got my Socks that Rock club yarn/pattern. I really like it. I haven't done January's but I am going to go ahead and start on March's after I finish the pair I have on the needles now. I am in two swaps and need to start my Monkey socks for my Monkey swap.. just need to pick the perfect yarn for the socks!! Always such a dilemna because you want them to be perfect.. Had to frog almost an entire lace scarf I was knitting.. ugh.. that was hard. I was trying to finish it for Easter and found a missed stitch that led to a massive hole.. Yes, there were tears.. But I put it back on the needles and will start over because I really like the pattern.. So alt least I knitting goals

Spring Fling Questionaire

2008-03-24T06:18:00.000-07:00

1.Coffee what is your favorite ? Whole Beans or Ground?
I would prefer whole beans, but really ground is also ok...

2. What kinds of coffee do you enjoy?
I prefer a milder blend. I love breakfast blends

3.If you were heading out to buy some coffee right now for your house, what would you be buying?
I would be stopping at our local roaster and getting something that they recommended in a mild flavor. They always have good suggestions..

4.Do you drink for caffiene, pleasure or both?
Both, I need the caffiene in the am, but I love coffee anytime!

5. Do you enjoy flavored coffees or add ins?
I enjoy some flavored coffees, but mostly I like flavored creamers and I put Equal or Splenda in my coffee. I like vanilla, caramel, creme broulee. I don't like fruity flavors.

6. A large, lovely mug or a small dainty tea cup
Oh a loverly mug please

7.Describe your perfect cup, not just the coffee, but how would you enjoy it?
I have to say that my morning coffee is my favorite.. I love to get up and sit outside on my swing with my coffee and either look out at the lake (If I am up there) or outside looking at my garden watching the birds and knitting.

8.Your sitting down at your local coffee shop with a cup of Joe and what treats would you pick to enjoy it with?
I love dunking cookies like shortbread or plain biscuit cookies... also would enjoy most things
chocolate.

Yarn

1. Do you knit or crochet.
I only knit...

2.What are your favorite yarns to work with?
I love almost all yarns... Cascade 220, sock yarn, bulky... it just depends what I am getting ready to knit... I have never knitted with Malabrigo and that would be what I would like to try next.

3. What is on your needles right now?
A pair of cable beaded mittens in Dream in Color Classy Black Parade.. I need to finish these. I also have a pair of Herringbone socks in Clauda Paints, and lace scarf in baby aplapaca..

4.What are your favorite color in yarns and what would you never find in your stash?
I love buttercream yellow, sage, eggplant, rich jewel tones and also greens. Probably won't find bright pinks, purples or neon colors

5.What sort of needles to enjoy or do you have some you detest?
Can't say that I have any I detest. There are just certain ones for certain projects. Right now I am trying to add more 40" circulars to my collection as I am doing more and more Magic Loop.

6.Are there any sort of knitting notions that you do not need?
No really, I can use about anything, because I am always misplacing things.

7.You walk into a yarn store with just enough money for two skeins of yarn.. what do you buy?
I would probably get malabrigo because I haven't used it before, but if there is a really pretty sock yarn.. I would be in trouble...

Spring

1. Is it truly Spring where you are?
Not yet.. it's trying though..

2.Favorite Spring Flower?
I like Tulips and also hyacinths..

3.What do you look forward to in Springtime?
Sunshine, opening the windows, hanging out the laundry, flowers coming up.. opening up the lake cottage.

4.Gorgeous day tomorrow, sunny 65 degrees, how do you spend your day?
I open up the windows and wash the bedding and hang it outside to dry, start messing around in my garden, refill the bird feeders and sit on my swing and drink coffee and knit!!

5.The day after that is cooler and rainy. How does that affect your mood and what do you do?
I am glad I got done what I did on the nice day... Then I tackle my craft room which is a mess and get some order to my yarn.. then I knit with some coffee while I look out at my birdfeeders.

Odds and Ends

1.Do you collect anything besides yarn and notions?
I collect snowmen ( in fact they stay up all year in certain part of my house), nursey type items and mugs

2.Are you allergic to anything?
No

3. Do you have pets?
Yes, one house cat.

4. Is this your first swap and list last two
Not my first. My first was Sockapalooza. I just finished Longing for Spring and also did Winter wonderland coffee swap.

5.List three of your favorite blogs..and why ( this is kind of hard for me.. I am still a newbie blogger)
Shup up I'm counting.. she makes me laugh
Yarn Harlot.. she inspires me
Alabama Fibers.. Just like the blog...

Monkey Sock Swap Questionnaire

2008-03-24T06:08:00.000-07:00

I am so glad to be doing the Monkey Swap again!! Here's my questionnaire

Shoe Size: 9
Foot Length: 9 inches
Circumference: 9.5 inches

Yarn"
Favorite Color: I love buttercream yellow, eggplant, sage, and blue.. that being said.. I really love all colors!!

Colors that clash with clothes? Orange, bright neons

Solids or Variegated: Really either would be fine

Favorite Sock Brand Yarns: Smooshy; Claudia paints, Sockatta; Treckking;

New Sock Yarn you would Like to Try? Flat feet, shibui, and any independent dyers

Cookie A patterns:
I have Hederea and Monkey and Flicker: I would like either Mona or Thelanious

Allergies:
None for Me.
I do have a cat in the house, but no exposure to smoke!!

I live in the US and would be open to international...

Did you wear green?

2008-03-18T09:08:00.000-07:00

Hope you had a Happy St. Patrick's Day!! I made corn beef and cabbage for the first time. It was a hit. I took it in to a carry-in at our school. Needless to say, there was none left. Wow, school staff knows how to party... We had so much food. I am currently working on a pair of socks in Claudia. The color is just lovely, yellow and pink, so springy. I wanted to have them done by Easter, but I don't think it's gonna happen 'cause Easter is sneaking up on me. My 13 y.o daughter is making her confirmation this year and I want to make her a prayer shawl. I think it will be lovely. I made one for my niece last year. I was her sponsor. I need to get busy though because it is on May 2nd... Bought some Jitterbug at the LYS. I haven't knit with it so I am excited to get it started,but I have about four other sock yarns in waiting. Including my January STR that I haven't even started yet... oh my, it's almost time for my next shipment... Gott go knit!!

Wonderful Wednesday

2008-03-13T12:37:00.000-07:00

I know, today is Thursday, but yesterday when I got home from work I had a package with my name on it. It was from my longing for spring swap partner, Devin. What can I say, it was perfect. It was so much fun to open and see all the wonderous stuff inside. First, I have to start with the yarn, oh my gosh, It's sock yarn from Unique Sheep in the Azela colorway. I just can't wait to wind it and put it on needles. I also got some beautiful yarn in jewel tone colors. It's waiting to tell me what it wants to be, but believe me, I am listening. I also got my first pair of knitpicks needles. Circs 40" for magic loop. How cool!! A neat sock pattern and also a very pretty notions bag. My stitich markers are already in it... I know, they are greedy that way. I got some chocolate and no, it isn't all gone yet, but close. Tonight I am going to start my own lavender plant. yes, that's right. I got a silver bag that you open up and add water and viola there's lavender. Just one of may all time favorites. thank you so much Devin. You have made spring come early to my house and I'm lovin' it...

knitting projects

2008-03-10T11:26:00.000-07:00

So, I was looking at a list I made of projects I want to finish and also start... I finished the cable beaded hat and I am on the second mitten for the cable beaded mittens. I am finishing a pair of bluebell socks in Tofutsie for a friend. I have a pair of Claudia paints waiting in the wings for Blue Bells pattern also. I have started a beautiful alpaca silk scarf and want to finish before Easter. I promised a pair of socks to my mother-in-law for her birthday( December).. yes I am way behind. I have not started my STR club socks from January. So as you can see, lists are starting to make me very nervous... but I want to be able to put some checks next to projects and have them finished... Much warmer today.. almost 40 degrees.. ya hoo.

relief

2008-03-02T10:13:00.001-08:00

I am so happy. My hot cocoa swap partner finally got her package. I was so upset that it was so delayed. But the bestest news is that she loves her package. I had so much fun getting her goodies together and now I can focus on my Longing for Spring buddy. I finished my cable beaded hat and It is superb. I am now started on the cabled beaded mittens that match. some of this love might be because I am using dream in color Black Parade in Worsted and it just can't be dreamer to work with. I am also just finished with my first felted project. it is the Vermont bag in 101 designs. I used farmhouse yarn and it felted up so beautiful. It is going to be a birthday present for a dear friend of mine. it feels so good to get some projects finished. I am working on a pair of socks for a friend's daughter and then a pair of socks for me. It's warmer today so we are cooking brats on the grill for supper. I really am longing for Spring.

It's a free knitting day!!

2008-02-26T09:01:00.000-08:00

that's what I call a cancelled day of school because of snow!! My radio went off at 5am and by 5:20 our school system was cancelled. I turned off the radio and rolled over and went back to sleep. Now after a load of dishes and laundry ( just to relieve a little guilt that my husband had to work today),I am drinking some wonderful coffee from Ralph Schwartz and knitting on my cabled beaded hat. The pattern is from Cabin fever and I just love it. Should finish it today and get started on the mittens. I know, I know, but winter is almost over. I'll get what use out of them I can this year and wear next year... All of my children are home. Troy is 19, Elsa is 13, and Adam is 11. We gave up TV for Lent. guess what, they don't know what to do with themselves... I hear a lot of ruckus in the family room. I guess TV is the ultimate babysitter. I's so funny two people called to tell me that Martha Stewart was all about knitting on her show today.. I can't watch it!! I will have to help my childen with projects to fill up their time today. They always love those suggestions, you know the ones, clean your room, shovel the walkway, clean the bathroom? I think we may have to play some games this afternoon. Apples to Apples always goes over well. The best news? I heard from my swap partner and she has me all bubbly inside. gotta love those swap partners that want to spoil you!! It's hard to believe that we making packages for Spring when I am sitting in a snow storm... Keep warm and keep knitting.

New Swap and questionnaire

2008-02-14T07:20:00.001-08:00

Wow, I just get one swap done and I sign up for another one. My friend Jan, AKA, Ralph Schwartz, told me about this Longing for Spring Swap, so I joined!!! Here are the answers to the swap questions:
1. Do you knit or crochet... I only knit and I LOVE it..

2. Favorite Yarns/Fibers.... I am addicted to sock yarns... I can't knit enough socks, that being said, I am open to trying new yarn and weights... Least Favorite; probably acrylic...

3. Favorite Colors.... butter cream yellow, rose, sage, eggplant... Least Favorite? probably neons

4. Warm weather project I am looking forward to... My brother gave me some alpaca silk yarn for Christmas. I began a beautiful lacy scarf, but have put it down for other projects, I am looking forward to getting it done for Easter.

5.Favorite Scent? Lavender, lemon, vanilla, cinnamon. Least Favorite? Rose,

6. Favorite Flower? This is hard, I love flowers. I'd say gerber daisies are one of my favs.

7. Springtime hobbies/activities? Opening up the lake cottage. I LOVE that day!! Starting to open the windows and letting the fresh air in, and hanging sheets and blankets outside to dry.

8. Do you have a garden? Flowers or Veggies? I am flower garden person. I love to plant perrenials and watch them come up in the spring. I have a beautiful Honeysuckle bush that just smells so good. Love to plant pansies as soon as possible in my buckets out in the garden for annuals..

9. Favorite Sweets; It's always chocolate. I love the stuff..

10. Collect anything? I collect snowmen and nurse type items and candles

11. Allergies? Nada

12. Pets? yes I have one cat and she doesn't like my yarn at all. go figure

My swap package came

2008-02-13T05:27:00.001-08:00

And surprise, surprise. My swap partner is my very dear knitting buddy Jan... She spoiled me rotten and I loved every minute of it. I am only sorry that I don't know how to post pictures to my blog so that I could show you all the wonderfulness!! My buddy is the cutest teddy bear ever in white with pastel colors. I have to find out what yarn she knitted it with. It's just perfect. The yarn, Oh my, Claudia in buttercream yellow and pinks... just a beautiful combination. She even wound them for me so my 13 yo. daughter could get the night off.. by the way Elsa really appreciated that. Lots of cocoa, instant soup mixes that are almost too cute to open, a bracelet stitch counter, a notepad, my favorite Chocolate.. I think she 's been stalking me!! Gourmet marshmallows from De Brands, a instant cocoa spoon that you put in hot milk, chocolate covered caramel pretzels, a warmer to hot pans or coffee mugs on and it gives off a cinnamon aroma, a circular needle holder, coffee ( Hazelnut), a cute snow mug, Oh I have probably forgotten something. I am doing this from memory!! Everything was wrapped so cool.. are you jealous yet? You should be... thanks Jan, You are the best!!!

So Excited

2008-02-12T08:28:00.001-08:00

I've heard from my cocoa swap partner and my package is in the mail!! How sweet is that? I learned out to make mitered squares in a class on Saturday at Knitting Today. We are using sock yarn and 31 cast on. This Saturday we are going to learn how to put it all together and make a blanket out of mitered squares. I am so excited. We are using left over sock yarn for the squares and I have an abundance of that!! Also go my sock yarn from Simply Sock Yarn Co. sock club. It's beautiful and wants to be knitted, but it's going to have to wait until my STR first sock club yarn gets knitted. Can I really knit this fast? I think I signed up for too many sock clubs, but I am sure enjoying the yarns. I also get artwalk sock club yarn and I have always been pleased with the beautiful yarn that I have been getting....

Beaucoup de Knitting

2008-02-06T08:11:00.000-08:00

Sorry, don't know the French word for knitting... I have been really busy knitting lately. Don't know if it is the cold weather or some kind of knitting mojo!! I just finished a pair of socks for my girlfriend. They were her very belated Christmas present. They were done with the December Tofutsie yarn in Wildberry. I did the Tidal Wave pattern. They turned out great. I finished one sock from my Valentine Sock kit from Wool Girl. Can I just say that I LOVE this yarn and pattern? The second sock is on the needles and will be done shortly. I am also almost done with a pair of socks for me in STR Carbon. Just a simple rib sock and I am on the second sock have about 1/3 left... I also started a pair of fingerless mittens for my 13 yo. The first one is done and she loves it. The second one is on the needles. I will finish this first, because she never asks for anything and asked that they be done before it gets warm out! LOL.. She knows me too well. I already have a project in the wings. My Rockin Sock Club yarn is just waiting. But I will not get it on the needles until these other projects are finished. I am taking a class on how to make a mitered blanket out of left over sock yarn.. Doesn't that sound yummy? I am so excited... My Cocoa swap package should be going out in the next day or two also...

Most memorable vacation

2008-01-29T07:48:00.000-08:00

Wow, this is harder than I thought. It's hard for me to pick. I didn't realize that I had had so many vacations to enjoy. After much thought, I will have to say that going back to see my grandparents in France when I was 12 was probably something I will always remember. Mainly because I hadn't seen them since I was 4 and didn't really remember them. We stayed for a month and it was very, very hard to leave. It was also very, very hard at first to communicate with our family as they didn't speak English and I didn't speak French. But love is communicated in many many ways. We did go back every 4 years after that, but I think that initial vacation held the most memories. Plus we went to Paris and that is always memborable.
I saw the coolest thing this weekend. We were watching the ice skating contests and my husband yelled out. "look at the woman knitting in the crowd" Of course I had to look up from my knitting to see her, but there she was. She was not looking at her knitting and going so fast. We were amazed. My husband states, " you don't knit that fast and without looking'. Dah, that's why I watch ice skating at home, where no one sees me. So we were more interested in trying to see this lady knitting instead of the ice skaters. Go figure. Score one for knitters everywhere!!!

Cocoa Swap Question

2008-01-22T10:04:00.000-08:00

Most random memory from Childhood. I'd have to say that what immediately popped into my mind was playing "Big Valley" with my younger brother and a girlfriend in the neighborhood. We'd love to pretend that we were the family in Big Valley. My friend and I always fought over who was going to Audra. Then who ever didn't win would be Heath. My brother was always the older brother, Adam. ( that's what I think his name was). We'd pretend that we lived on a ranch and had horses and a huge house to live in. So I don't realy know where that came from, but that is my random memory. We had a two hour delay today because of snow/ice hitting us right at drive time. I LOVE two hour delays... get to sleep in and the day goes so fast. I forgot that I am teaching a CPR class tonight right after school to two teachers, but it shouldn't take too long. My youngest is now wrestling. Don't know where that came from He is in 6th grade and can wrestle with the JR. High 7th and 8th graders. He's lost 5 pounds in a week. He comes home so tired that he barely eats his supper. I am glad that he wanted to try and do it and is sticking with it. He loves to play sports and I think he is going to give them all a try.
On the knitting front, I am finally getting some projects completed. We got a new camera and I am going to try and teach myself how to put them on the blog and show all of you my handi work. I have started new projects, seemed there for awhile all I was knitting was socks, but now I am taking off with other projects. WE have TWO new yarn stores that just opened up in the last month. It was been wonderful to get to feel and smell and hold yarn again. I am afraid that they think that I am stalking them. What a great way to start the year. The one yarn store is so friendly and made me feel so welcome. Needless to say, they will be getting my business. Hope you are staying warm and enjoying your needles.

I'm mortified

2008-01-15T07:32:00.000-08:00

Guess what I did yesterday? I blogged and I was so proud.. until I realized this morning that I blogged to Knitter's Coffee Swap three and I am sure all the lovely knitters over there are wondering why my post is on the swap.. .Ugh. Well, if you would like to read what I wrote yesterday. please feel free to go to the Knitter's coffeeswap and see all my glory written to all.

Cocoa Swap Questionnarie

2008-01-08T07:58:00.000-08:00

Cocoa:
1. What is your favorite way to drink hot cocoa? Prepared with milk or water? Home recipe or store bought? In a teacup or a big mug?
I love to drink hot cocoa with my children when they have come in from playing in the snow. Their cheeks are all red and I know this is a special memory for me and them. I am not picky about hot cocoa, I like it any way. However, I tend to make it with a little more cocoa then recommended. I like it chocolately. Of course in a big steamy mug.

2. Marshmallows or whipped cream? I am a marshmallow girl (in more ways than one). I like whipped cream, but never really have it on hand to use.

Yarn/Knitting/Crocheting?
1. Favorite type of yarn? Right now I am a sock yarn fanatic. I love knitting socks. I tend to like the superwash but will try anything.

2.Do you knit or crochet? I only knit

3. What is your favorite type of needles? Right now I am into circulars for magic loop for making socks. I am a loose knitter and tend to use only size 1 or 0. I do love my bamboo DPNs also.
*Would you like to try something new? Of course

4. Do you have a healthy supply of notions? Not many stitch markers or needle case especially for my circular needles.

5. What one thing do you keep thinking you need to buy for your knitting habit? Probably a needle case for my circular needles, they are escaping at an alarming rate..

6. What is your favorite quick knit pattern? Either socks or dishcloths, I really like to do dishcloths for a no-brainer kind of night.

Miscellaneous
1.What is your favorite thing to do in winter? I am a school nurse and my favorite thing is a snow day, where I sleep in under my toasty flanner comforter, Then get up and make coffee and look outside at the weather. My kids are usually home also and we bake or make something fun for supper. Just knowing that I am warm and safe and don't have to go anywhere.

2. What is your favorite animal? We have a cat and we love her... she is a bit spoiled. I also love to feed the birds and we have a pair of cardinals that live in our pine tree and a woodpecker who loves suet. They bring me joy to watch.

3. Do you get the winter blahs? Only if we have a really long season with no sun. I am always ready for Spring.

4. What is your favorite way to beat the blahs.. Oh, going to the local yarn store or even a road trip to a new yarn store.

5. What are the things you most look forward to in the spring? Opening our summer cottage at Pretty lake. It just is awesome to start going back there.

6.What are your favorite treats? Chocolate is one of my favorites. I like peppermint lifesavers and sugar free gum..

7. What is your favorite board game? Sequence, we learned it about 4 years ago and it is always the first to come out.

8. Do you have any children (furry or human)? I have a 19 yo son who lives at home and goes to college in our town, a daughter who is 13 and a son who is 11. We have a cat named Peekachoo

9. Do you have any allergies or special considerations? Nope, nadda. not a one..

I got my Winter Wonderland Coffe Swap Package

2007-12-27T09:21:00.000-08:00

And it is a doozie. I am just in love with everything. It was on my mailbox on Christmas Eve. I didn't have time to open it, but on Christmas day when we got home from my Brother's it was dug into!! I am so sorry but my camera has bit the dust, so I am just going to have to give a written description of my goodies. First of all, the felted snowmen stitchmarkers are adorable. I am almost afraid to use them. I received heavenly yarn from Claudia Hand Painted yarns in Peppermint mocha. Yum Yum. Beautiful color way in reds, pinks, white, and browns. I feel a pair of socks just for me coming around. Also a skein of Honeysuckle yarn in Mocha Swirls. Love it!! I got Snowflake bath fizzles and lovely guest soaps in a snowman and christmas tree design. A snow man tissue package and last but not least ... Coffee.. Remlinger Farms, Snoqualmie blend. Oh and chocolate. But that is already gone. My favorite. Milka from Germany!!! thank you so much to Emiko for making this such a fun swap!! Happy New Year!!

Catch up

2007-12-19T09:50:00.000-08:00

That's what I feel I am doing lately. Trying to catch up for Christmas... I always swear I won't be shopping at the last moment and there I was driving around trying to get all those last minute gift certificates and goodies I thought of. Also trying to knit with every free moment I have. Met with two of my girlfriends Friday night and I had to give them IOUs since I only had one mitten done and one sock done. Guess I'll be busy until after January trying to get presents knitted. I am going to try and get some dish cloths knitted in the pretty Christmas colorway of red/green/white. One more sock to finish. I think I can do it!! I really needed the snow and nasty weather this weekend. I was so tired and the weekend was completely booked. But we got snowed in on Sunday and Monday we had no school. I needed that!! I am refreshed and ready to tackle the last week before Christmas!! But I am looking forward to seeing everyone's face when they open up their presents... I do love to give presents..

Baby, it's cold outside

2007-11-29T06:59:00.000-08:00

Wow, I was not ready for that cold artic breeze that greeted me this morning as I left for work. It was very cold!! Of course I was not wearing a coat, hat, scarf, or mittens.. surprise, surprise. I was however wearing a nice warm cardigan sweater that a dear friend knit for me. I love it. I wear it all the time. It's very comfy. It is nice to have a comfy sweater. I have my winter coffee swap package all filled and ready to go. I am going to try and hit the post office tomorrow at lunch time. Then I am done with swaps for a while. I am waiting for my coffee swap package and I hope I get it soon. I know things are moving much slower now with the holidays...

Thankful...

2007-11-20T09:54:00.000-08:00

In our Winter Coffee Swap we are to blog about what we are thankful for... I have really tried to make sure that I really look at what I am thankful for... First of all I am thankful for God giving me so many blessings in my life. It is easy to forget how blessed you are and focus on what you don't have or think you need. I have a wonderful Husband and we are getting ready to celebrate our 20th Anniversary on the 3rd of December. I have three healthy children. A warm house, plenty of food, health insurance, a job I love, and lots of yarn. Life is pretty good and I am pretty lucky!! Happy Thanksgiving everyone.

I am getting my Coffee Swap package ready

2007-11-13T10:41:00.000-08:00

Well, I was late in sending my Monkey pal her package, but I will not be late in sending my Coffee Swap partner her goodies. I have most of it and just need to make a quick stop on the way home. Then I will package it up and send it on it's merry way hopefully tomorrow. IT was a busy weekend. I did lots of shopping and made my Christmas Cards on Saturday. On Friday night I made my Thanksgiving cards and they will be sent soon. My daughter and I wrapped some presents instead of trying to lug them around the house and find places to put things. I am working on two pairs of socks right now and dish cloths. I have so many Christmas presents I want to get done and so little time... I am trying to keep knitting in my car so even if I have 5 minutes down time, I can knit. I am also getting items together for the Winterwonderland swap. It is hard sometimes to keep everything organized and clear. I do enjoy doing it and sending the packages though. I had Monday off for Veteran's Day and worked on my house, it was a mess. Made a nice supper so that when the family came home they could smell the delicious supper and we had a nice meal. So today is back to work and trying to juggle four things at the same time. More later...

OH I am so bad 3

2007-11-13T05:45:00.004-08:00

Oops, I kept hitting the enter button!! First of all I want to apologize the WONDERFUL Tricotine, who has been the Monkey Sock Swap Partner extrodinare.. What an amazing package she sent me. Still my favorite are my beautiful monkey socks in a beautiful fall color. They are Trekking with Bamboo. Needless to say they fit beautifully. I also loved all my goodies. I was totally spoiled. I got a cute monkey bag, which my 13 yo daughter is battling over with me. I also received organic coffee ( with a monkey on it) and a huge dark chocolate bar ( with a monkey on it) :-).. there were two patterns, Hedra and Flickr, beautiful berry colored Lorna Lace sock yarn, a monkey squeeze ball, some chocolate with marzapan, a cute monkey notebook and monkey pen, a great smelling candle, mulling spices... I might have forgotten something, but I hope not!! Thanks so much for my surprises and I am so sorry I forgot to blog about it.

Oh I am so bad 2

2007-11-13T05:45:00.003-08:00

Oh I am so bad!!

2007-11-13T05:45:00.001-08:00

For love of coffee

2007-11-05T06:23:00.000-08:00

I was probably 13 or 14 when I started having the occasional cup of coffee with my mom. She drank coffee every morning with cream and sugar, which is how I learned to drink my coffee. At about age 16 I started drinking more often and now have a habit of coffee every morning and sometimes during the day also. I now drink it with flavored creamer and a packet of sweetner ( usually Splenda or Equal). I prefer the milder types of coffee such as Breakfast blends. We have a local roaster in town, so I am learning more about coffee and my preferences. Nothing beats the smell of coffee in the morning.

Happy Halloween

2007-10-31T09:28:00.000-07:00

Can you beleive it is already Halloween? I just see the days go flying by and try to keep up. My youngest is so excited about going Trick or Treating tonight. We live in a small town and he and his sister and cousins have a grand time. My bil and sil come over and we have small bonfire by the road and pass out candy... It's something we have been doing the last 5 years and I have come to look forward to it. It's supposed to be a beautiful evening... I just finished my Monkey pal socks and they are being mailed tomorrow. I have all the goodies. I hope my pal is happy with her socks. It's almost harder to send them when you can't see the look on their face when they open them up. I had a great monkey pal. She made the bestest pair of socks. I love them. All the goodies she sent me overwhelmed me also. My children couldn't believe everything that came out of the package. I am going to try and put up a picture in my blog. A new adventure for me that is sure. Blogging is pretty much a new adventure to me also... I am now going to focus on the Knitter's Coffee Swap partner. I am so excited.. this is lots of fun!!! I also am trying to get a lot of my Christmas shopping done early so that I can just sit back and enjoy the Holidays. But I have lots of knitting to do before Christmas, mostly socks...Hope your day is filled with lots of Treats and very few Tricks...

Winter Wonderland Swap Questionnaire

2007-10-24T06:01:00.000-07:00

Monday, October 15, 2007

Questionnaire and Such
1!CoffeeWhat are your favorite kinds of coffee? (Brands, Roasts, anything at all you'd like to share!) There is a local roaster in town that I enjoy going to... I like Starbucks. I am more of a breakfast blend type of coffee lover. I like medium roasts. I don't really like french roasts.
2Do you prefer whole bean or ground coffee? I prefer whole bean
3This time of year, there are often Holiday Blends available, and many flavored coffees - do you drink flavored coffee? I like flavored coffees but not usually fruit flavors. I am open to new flavors and would love a Holiday blend..Surprise me...
4 Do you enjoy special blends? I think I would
5How do you take your coffee? Cream and Sugar? Straight up? Decaf? I drink my coffee straight up in the morning and later at night decaf. I usally put sweetner (equal or splenda) and a flavored creamer in my coffee
6Do you prefer drinking from a nice thick mug, or a matched cup and saucer? Oh, I am a nice think mug gal...

Winter and Holidays - PLEASE be descriptive! Your pal will need this information to be sure to put together a package you will enjoy!
1What is your favorite part of Winter? The snow and cool air, wanting to be somewhere warm with a blanket wrapped around you, drinking coffee and knitting... Holiday movies, Snow days at school ( I am a school nurse).

2Do you celebrate a holiday in December, and if so, which holiday? I celebrate Christmas

3If you celebrate Christmas, do you put up a tree? Oh, yes, the real tree goes up Thanksgiving weekend.

4.Would you enjoy items related to the holiday, or would you prefer a Winter themed package?
Probably a mixture, I like both ideas so please do what you want

5Do you collect anything? I collect snowmen and sock yarn ( can you really ever have enough?)

6Are there any holiday or winter-themed items (Snowmen, Angels, Snoflakes, Santas, etc) that you collect? Snowmen and I love mugs,

7Do you wear scarves? Mittens? Hats? I wear all of them but especially mittens and scarves

8 What is your favorite holiday or winter treat? Christmas cookies, fudge, all the homebaked goods that get made:-)

9Please share a favorite Winter or Holiday memory.

Yarn and Crafting
1Do you Knit or Crochet? I knit, can't seem to get around crochet
2For how long? Very seriously for about 3 years.
3Do you like wooden, metal, or plastic needles\hooks? Circular or straight? I love wooden dpns and circulars
4What sort of projects do you enjoy making? Right now I am into socks... I also like doing sweaters for my nieces and nephews ( they are toddlers so it is easier)
5What are your favorite types of yarn to work with? My favorite right now is sock yarn. I love independent dyers and Smooshie yarn from Dream in Color, really almost any sock yarn...
6Do you spin or dye? Neither, I barely keep up with knitting
7Do you do other crafts such as scrapbooking or needlepoint or anything else? I do scrapbooking and cardmaking. I really enjoy that.

General
8When is your birthday? April 1st.... really!!
9Do you have any children? (Furry kind count!) I have a 19yo son, a 13yo daughter and a 11yo son, all living at home. the 19 yo is going to a local college. We also have a very independent cat named peekachoo.
10What are your favorite colors? butter cream yellow, sage, lavendar, jewel tones, really almost all colors
11Do you have any allergies? Nodda one

OOPs

2007-10-20T11:39:00.000-07:00

I hit the publish post button before I wrote anything down. I do love Saturdays. Especially when there is no big event planned. Today had to the the oil changed and get some items from the Walmart but other than that. I am own my own schedule. Got up at 8:45 and made coffee... read yesterday's mail. Then charted the course for the day. My husband announced it is date night tonight. Wowee.My 19yo son is staying home with my 11yo son and my 13yo daughter has a party so we actually have some free time. I am to be surprised as to where we are going. My hubby is taking a nap, he gets up early to run his route on Saturday. I want him rested. I think right now I am going to make some coffee and knit out on my swing in the backyard. It is very nice out but windy. happy knitting

I LOVE Nothing to do Saturday

2007-10-20T11:38:00.001-07:00

Heard from my partner

2007-10-17T08:38:00.000-07:00

I had an e-mail from my partner. Haven't received mine though... It got me all excited . I want to get started buying for my pal... The weather here is unreal. Today 74degrees and tomorrow 76 degrees. Have we forgotten we are in fall? Oh well, enjoy while you can, although I like cooler days. I got this heavenly yarn from the Simply Sock Yarn Club. It was the last installment. It is called Broohaha. It is Smooshie from Dream color. Talk about beautiful fall colors. I had promised myself I wouldnt' touch it until I got the second sock done for my Monkey Sock Swap Pal. But I didn't follow through and I have knitted past the heel on it. It is great. I can't wait to get it done. I will only do the one sock though and get the that durn second Monkey done. I have already bought all the gifts for it and I have the yarn I am sending so just need to get that sock done. I am really enjoying reading other's blogs and getting information about sock clubs and swaps... my life is complete....

Knitter's Coffee Swap Three Questionnaire

2007-10-10T07:17:00.000-07:00

Here are my answers:

1. Whole bean or ground. I prefer whole, but ground is really ok also

2. Fully-loaded or decaf? Gotta go with fully loaded

3. Regular or Flavored? I am open to both

4.How do you Drink your Coffee: With sweetner( Splenda,Equal) and some creamer. I really like flavored creamers.

5. Favorite Coffee Ever: Gotta love the Breakfast blend at my local coffee cafe/ shop. They roast their own..

6. Are you fussy about your coffee or will any old bean do? Not that fussy. I am not into dark blends or French roasts.

7. Favorite treats to have with your coffee? animal crackers ( they dunk really well) biscotti,

cookies.

8. Anthing else about your coffee preferences? I like mellow blends and I am not into fruit flavored coffees, gotta like those other flavors though. I like regular coffee in am and flavored coffees later in the day.

9. Yarn /fiber you love? Oh I am crazy into sock yarn right now. I should say I have enough, but I can't. It seems wrong to say no more sock yarn... so many feet to cover so little time. Gotta have sock yarn

10. Yarn/fiber you hate? Uhm... acrylic ( unless something for baby that needs to washed lots) and that's it

11. What's on your needles? Better question, what's not on your needles, thanks for not asking how many needles do you have? Then I would have to feel bad. On needles currently is monkey socks for Monkey Sock Swap ( almost done), socks that I am learning to knit two at a time on a circular needle, using Magic loop. Two scarves, and one Daisy cardigan. Is that enough? Uhm I also have about three socks that just need to be grafted at the toe. ( What's my problem?).

12. Favorite Colors: rich jewel tones, sage, lilac, light yellow

13. Allergies: Not a one

14. Anything you really love, really don't like, or just need to get off your chest? I REALLY REALLY love coffe swaps and the people willing to run then. They are the bestest...

new swap coming up

2007-10-09T09:31:00.000-07:00

There is a new swap that starts the 24th of October called Winter Coffee Swap. You can check it out at http://wintercoffeeswap.blogspot.com. Go over there and see if you are interested.. I am..

Wow

2007-10-09T06:20:00.000-07:00

I've got lots of news... I am almost finished with sock #1 of Monkey. It is turning out so great!! I am finally on the list of people for the monkey swap.. Yah!! Also I signed up for knitter's coffee swap #3... I got my invite yesterday. I can't wait. Got to fill out my questionnaire. I will do that later. Tonight after work I am going to get pumpkins and apples and apple cider at my favorite little street stand. I always take my children and they pick out the pumpkin they are going to carve for Halloween. They are 19, 13, and 11. The 19 year old is not interested, but the other two are raring to go. It's kinda of tradition and the weather has finally broken. It was so hot, that I was not motivated to do anything. It will only be 75 today. Tomorrow 65. It was 89 yesterday. Ugh... gonna also look for some Monkey items tonight for my pal. Just a couple of little things and my package will be ready to go. I got the pattern already and yarn I am going to send. This I am looking forward to...

Good news

2007-10-05T06:58:00.001-07:00

I received some good news from my Monkey Pal.. my Monkey socks are done... I can't wait to see them. Still trying to get the socks done for my class Saturday. It is two socks at a time on circular needles using magic loop. I have to be to the heel, almost there. Also working on my monkey socks every chance I get. Tomorrow my oldest turns 19.. where has the time gone? He wants to go to a local Mexican Restaurant for his birthday dinner. I am taking him shopping for some new clothes and shoes also. He doesn't like to take the time to do this, so I am making the time. His grandma is also giving me his Birthday money so that we can pool it and get him more. It's hard to buy for 19 y.o.s , he can't think of anything he wants.. huh??? Wish I had that problem.

My Monkeys on are on the needle

2007-10-02T08:49:00.000-07:00

Just started my Monkey socks last night. They are turning out great. I had a big project to finish up. I knit a prayer shaw for my niece for her confirmation which was Sunday. I was her sponsor. She loved it. I didn't really like knitting with the yarn, it was mohair, but it turned out beautiful. I am taking a class on how to do two socks at one time with Magic Loop. It takes a little more thought, but you end up with two socks at once. I am to have the knitted to the heel by Saturday morning. I will keep trugging along. I am using Bear Mountain yarn and it is so soft and a beautiful color. I am also trying to finish a pair of anklet socks for my daughter, they have been promised forever and always get put to the side. I don't think I have enough yarn, but my dear knitting pal Jan, thanks she has the same yarn. It is Sockotta in purples and blacks. So she is going to give me the tiny bit I need to finish... ah friends. So that's my goings on currently. I have some other projects on the needles that will get attention after this Monkey Swap, mainly because it is going to be Christmas soon and I have some projects to finish and start, mostly socks, but a couple of scarves and mittens. Talk at you later...

The yarn has finally made it

2007-09-24T10:28:00.001-07:00

I got the most beautiful yarn that I ordered from Yarnlust on ETSY. It was just what I wanted for my monkey sock pal. I can't wait to dig in knit some monkeys.... I have so many projects on needles. I have to get something done. I do have to get a prayer shawl done for my niece by this Sunday. I am her sponser and she is making her confirmation. I make it out of beautiful pink mohair. Pink being her favorite color. I hope she just LOVES it... I started making a pair of socks from some Schaefer Heather that I got from Simply Sock Yarn, You gotta love that place. It came with a Schaefer pattern for the socks that I really like. I think it's called texture? Any whoo... Tonight is prayer shawl. I will start my monkeys when the shawl is finished. I have gotten three items for my monkey pal...hope she likes them.

No Monkey Socks yet

2007-09-20T08:56:00.000-07:00

I have finally found the yarn I want to make my pal's monkey socks with. It is gorgeous and I am so excited. I don't have it yet though. I am very hopeful that she will swoon with delight over her socks and Monkey surprises. I am really enjoying this swap. It is so much fun to have someone who is really going to enjoy the socks that you make for them.

Big Decision

2007-09-12T05:23:00.000-07:00

Well, I made a big decision yesterday. I was taking a class to begin my Master's program for nursing. I was three weeks into it and realized that this is the wrong time in my life to be trying to go back to school. I have an 18yo living at home going to the local college, a 13yo daughter,and 11yo son. I could not believe all the time I was devoting to school and felt overwhelmed. Maybe somewhere in my next life, I will start this project. I feel like a big weight has been lifted off my shoulders, so I know it was a good decision for me. Besides, you know that means more time for knitting.

It's Monkey Time

2007-09-08T13:35:00.000-07:00

Well, I heard from the person knitting for me. Can't wait. I also e-mailed my person who I am knitting for and gave them the good news that I was knitting for them. Asked a couple of questions to clarify the socks, so that they can be perfect. I am now going to look for the perfect yarn and perfect monkey presents. Oh the shopping we will have to do.. (love to shop)

let's try this questionnaire again

2007-09-03T17:56:00.001-07:00

I already tried this once and it got lost so here we go again.

Monkey Sock Swap THREE Questionnaire

The Basics: I consider myself an intermediate sock knitter

The Measurements
Shoe Size: 9 wide in US
Foot Circumference: 91/2 inches
Foot Lenght: 9 inches

Yarn Preferences:
colors: I Love all colors. Just not crazy about bright neon colors

Prefer solids or variegated: Like either, so surprise me

Prefer wool, cotton, or acrylic: Just not to crazy about acrylic, otherwise open

What color never wear? Neons, black

Favorite Brands: Anne Schaefer; Cherry Tree Hill, Socks that Rock, Koigu

New Brands: Oh, there are lots out there that I have not used yet

Cookie A Patterns

Already knit: Just the Monkey and I loved it.

Patterns you don't have and would like to knit? Flickr, Heda

International or US? I am open to either

Allergies? Nada

My knitting exposed to smoke or animals? there is a cat in my house

On ravelry? Are you kidding? I just figured out how to make a blog.... someday

Monkey Sock Swap Three Questionnaire

2007-09-03T17:55:00.001-07:00

It's a blog

2007-08-31T05:28:00.000-07:00

I've created my own blog for the very first time. I did it because I joined Monkey Socks Swap 3 and I needed a blog. I just finished Sockapalooza 4. It was my first swap and I loved it.