needles, yarn and a big chunk of chocolate

Skating on Go Home Lake

2011-01-26T06:58:00.002-05:00

My knitting projects have dwindled and I have only Ardelle on the needles. Unfortunately I lost my first Ardelle hat and am knitting a replacement. So instead of knitting photos I thought that you would enjoy this video of Nicholas skating on our homemade ice rink. Every weekend we spend about 3 hours clearing it.

A quick knit

2010-12-25T02:22:00.003-05:00

If you follow this blog, you'd think that I never knit and never completed a project. Truth is, I always have a sock in my purse and I'm always working on something but I don't always take the time to photograph my work and post.
I bought or received (I can't remember) some Malabrigo Rasta yarn this fall and I was scheduled to make some kind of mobius thing. Turns out I'm really averse to twisting stitches that are in the round. Probably relates to my sock knitting persona who spends hours making sure that I don't twist my wool in the round. Anyways, I decided to knit a scarf for my sister Monica. The colours were very appealing and the pattern was simple. While there were only 11 repeats, I was completely unable to memorize it. I remember working on the scarf at the cottage, sipping coffee while the snow accumulated outside of my window. Ah, idealic knitting days.
Anways, the scarf turned out beautiful in my eyes.
I blocked it and everything.

Finally my son has asked for me to knit him something

2010-11-28T16:20:00.003-05:00

I keep offering to knit him a sweater but he's just not interested but these babies were O.K.

Easy Drop Stitch Scarf for Maureen

2010-11-18T23:56:00.007-05:00

I started this scarf in October just before I left for my New Orleans chef retreat. I really loved the colourway of this sock yarn and thought that it would be wasted on my feet. It was a quick knit, completed mostly in the waiting room of our local E.R. and on the TTC. I think that it looks great on Nini and am thrilled that she likes it too!

All in a day (or so)!

2009-12-26T13:19:00.003-05:00

I was really looking forward to knitting up something with this hand dyed, hand spun wool that I bought a couple of years ago.

I actually knit a gauge swatch which in the end counted for didly squat! I used the Yarn Harlot's unoriginal hat pattern. It was a fast knit and I'd definitely knit it again. I asked my son to model the hat for me so that I could post it before I leave to the internet free zone (the cottage).

Chloe has come to visit

2009-12-13T09:16:00.000-05:00

Oh yeah and Monica came too! Well someone had to drive my beautiful neice over for the weekend latke party.

I started this hat last night and finished it this morning. Finally a completed project.

Jack's 50th Birthday on Go Home Lak e

2009-09-08T11:04:00.002-04:00

We hosted a 50th birthday pig roast on the weekend.
Here is the birthday boy (left) and Julius (my DH) carrying dinner to the table

After dinner the band played

Back from my 3 week sailing holiday

2009-08-31T22:00:00.002-04:00

Am casting on the 2nd toe up sock of the Leybourn sock pattern.
I actually finished a pair of Loksins during this trip as well.

2009-06-10T09:16:00.005-04:00

I have been knitting the same socks over and over again. That's what happens when your brain is not capable of figuring out a new pattern. Oh well! I thought I'd share some photos since my life has been marching on since my last post in February.
I went to Barbados in March

Where I cooked a lot because we did a home exchange rather than stay in a hotel. Most nights we had fish that was caught only hours before.

In April my son learned how to ride a bike

In May I taught a cooking class for the Junior league.

and later in the month I took a baking class using a wood fired oven

2009-02-16T17:19:00.002-05:00

It's kind of a caramel crunch cake but not really. I didn't have a recipe so I just put it together with bits and pieces of my other recipes. I sent it over to my mother in law's for her birthday, I couldn't go because my son was home sick.
I hope that it tastes OK.

2009-02-10T16:24:00.004-05:00

The theory was that if I went to the cottage that I would get some knitting done. The theory didn't pan out but we did go skiing.

A little knitting!

2009-02-04T17:52:00.003-05:00

Finally a finished object. I thought that I was destined to make 09 the year of procrastination. This hat was frogged twice because they were the wrong size. This one is still slightly too large but Nicky, in his 8 year old charm, said 'mom it's fine'.
I love him.

Wrapping, Baking, Knitting

2008-12-19T12:47:00.003-05:00

I am alternating between these 3 activities. I'm baking some cakes for a catering job due tonight. I'm wrapping and I'm knitting 2 hats that are, of course, for Christmas.
Here's what we did yesterday.

2008-12-16T17:19:00.005-05:00

Look who won 'Not Guilty' a parenting book written by Debbie Travis.
My darling husband, who enters every contest under the sun, finally won something. I wonder if he's going to read the book?
Well no knitting in my house, it's just been work, work, work. It's always like this at Christmas time. Hopefully I'll get a little knitting done this weekend as I'm going away to the cottage and we're snowbound.

Halloween (again)

2008-11-03T17:45:00.003-05:00

Julius and I dressed up to welcome the little uns to our home on Halloween.

No new knitting

2008-10-27T17:14:00.003-04:00

but I thought that you might like to see these little cupcakes that we made for a dinner party on Saturday night.
This is an Espresso Brownie Cupcake with Baileys Buttercream
and this is a Lemon Cheesecake Cupcake with Lemon Curd and Candied Lemon

The rest of the menu is on my cooking blog.
We are still working on our basement renovation and I haven't had much time for knitting, I hope I can see you all on Tuesday at the SnB.

2008-10-06T17:24:00.002-04:00

The family went on a roadtrip to visit my girlfriend Ginny, her husband John and her son John Alex. We all had a terrific time.
The farm was built before the turn of the century.

The farm has a vineyard and the grapes were badly decimated by a late frost this year. Julius singlehandedly harvested the 2008 crop.

Of course the real attraction for me, after of course great friends and great food

were the sheep

Julius liked the wine making the best

and Nicholas liked the tractors!

I need a steeking lesson

2008-10-01T14:00:00.002-04:00

I got as far as I could on the Telemark sweater and I don't exactly understand the instructions on how to prepare to knit a steek so I'll have to wait until one of my SnBs to move forward. Maybe I'll have a chance to go to my Wednesday SnB.
Nicholas is feeling a little better but he's still under the weather.

A little progress on Telemark

2008-09-22T11:49:00.004-04:00

The sweater is knitting up nicely, I can almost do the pattern without looking! Woohoo.
I have had a bit of problem with tension, my regular style of tensioning (wrapped around my pinkie) is not working and I can't feed out the yarn so I've had to create a new tension style for this yarn. I've never really had this happen before but now I just lightly go through my fingers, not around, and it seems to be OK

What I'm workng on

2008-09-19T13:22:00.002-04:00

I have been working on the TeleMark Ski Sweater by knitpicks. I decided that since I figured out how to knit with one colour in each hand, I'd capitalize on the skill and knit another colourwork sweater. I also have no ski sweater, so I need to finish this sweater by January.
This will be my first sweater with steeks so I'll probably take a course. Looks like the Naked Sheep will be offering a steeking course.
I have also been working on my Loksins and someone will get these for Christmas.

I have also been working on Spring Forward and they'll coming along, this is the wool that my girlfriend's dog decided to tangle for me.

Fort York Birthday!

2008-09-14T09:56:00.007-04:00

I thought that you might like a trip to enjoy my son's 8th birthday at Fork York. The kids had a terrific time. They learned about the importance of music in the army and all tried their hand at drumming.

They practiced marching.

But the best part was the full drill and charging!

Then we marched home and had pizza and cake!

Birthday Cake Time!

2008-09-13T08:12:00.005-04:00

Nicholas turned 8 yesterday and his party is today at Fort York. Nicholas has had a 'thing' with the military, supported by his Uncle Doug who is in the California Army National Guard and is being deployed to Kosovo later this year. Nicholas asked for an army man cake and here is what he got.

He said that he was happy with it.

I can't say that it was my favourite cake to make, it was challenging making the camouflage colours but it's done now, the pizzas are baked and ready for re-heating, I just have to toss the salad and make a fruit plate. Off to Fort York!

Hail on the golf course

2008-08-18T09:41:00.003-04:00

Our wacky weather delivered hail on Friday. As you can see the hail stones were about the size of gumballs. What next?

Spring Forward, done before the end of summer!

2008-08-18T08:48:00.002-04:00

This wool is from my stash, a secret pal gave it to me and it was very soft and easy to work with, some kind of Merino for sure. I'm not in love with the pooling of the colours so it will become a Christmas gift for someone. Do any of my sisters like them? Spring Forward

Yay, I have phone service

2008-08-14T09:06:00.002-04:00

After almost 3 weeks with no home phone or internet we have finally repaired our decrepit line. At the cottage my girlfriend came up with her 2 daughters and her 2 dogs. Her daughters were delightful. Her dogs did this to the sock that I was working on.
I don't even know how to detangle it. I don't even know if there is any hope so I started another sock. I am working on Spring Forward and Loksins . I'll have at least one pair done today so I'll post photos tomorrow.

I worked hard in the kitchen but I never got to the knitting

2008-07-17T21:38:00.011-04:00

Always a treat to make food for a good party. We started off this morning by baking a chipotle cheesecake. Think dreamy, creamy, spicy cheesecake that eats like a dip and is served with little round tortillas.

then we move on to baked good. Where to start, how about with cookies, like triple chocolate, or oatmeal

Then we moved to some lemon squares. This picture doesn't do them justice, they have a shortbread crust and a zesty, tangy lemon filing.

The next baking feat was a 4 step bar. A cranberry streusel bar. First we made a shortbread crust.

then we made yummy filling of cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk

then we spread it out nice and even.

then we pour a yummy cranberry and brown sugar mixture on it

We top it off with a pecan streusel mixture and bake it til it's golden brown. Mmmmmm!

As you see I didn't finish the coconut cream pies, the chicken shish kebabs or the empanadas but they are first on the agenda for Friday. Stay tuned!

Go Home Lake

2008-07-14T13:21:00.003-04:00

has lots of frogs. This is Jeremiah. He likes to sing and isn't camera shy.

Crocodile cake

2008-07-14T13:15:00.003-04:00

I made this cake last fall for my son's seventh birthday, I made it to feed about 15. To feed 25 people I had to add a couple of extra curves to the body. It's the easiest cake ever.

I even have finished objects

2008-07-07T22:11:00.002-04:00

but i can't show them to you. I finished my jaywalker socks for my DH. I can't show them to you because my modem died and it's going to take a couple of days for my ISP to ship me a new one. Then....they think that I'm going to pay for it. Well I don't think so, I've been a loyal customer for 13 years and quite frankly they should be sending me thank you cards for staying with them that long!!!
Anyways, my jaywalkers are done and I'm working on spring forward but I have to sit on the curb using 'free' wifi to post so definitely no photos for now.
I made a huge kid's crocodile cake today in the blistering heat and I do have photos but you'll have to wait.
TTFN Michelle

It's just not fair!

2008-06-15T15:51:00.002-04:00

that my husband tried on his jaywalker sock and it was too long, but not just a little too long it was like 2 inches too long! I mean, what happened! I swear I measured his foot! It must be the measuring tape. So I have to decide if I should knit the other one the same size and look for a size 12 or 13 (foot size) man to give them to or if I should rip sock number one back.
I need this like a hole in the head.

Breaking up floors, pouring cement, framing is done, plumbing rough in is done, drywall starts Tuesday. Yech.

Taking time away from termite central to knit

2008-06-03T14:17:00.002-04:00

Well things around my house have been interesting to say the least. We discovered a termite infestation that has led to the complete gutting and removal of our basement back to the brick walls and concrete floors.
It has been a dirty, dirty, dirty week. Did I mention that we hauled away 34 yards of waste?
I have done no knitting because I haven't had much time but all of a sudden today when my shop vac quit (I was vacuuming the basement again) and all of my bins were filled with excavation debris from our drain work I realized that I couldn't do anything in the basement and that I should take a break.
So for my break I'm doing laundry and knitting.
I was killed on Friday in sock wars so my Detonation socks are en route to the American midwest.
My socks were a beautiful colour but they are loose on my feet. The pattern was just too big, I mean 72 stitches? That's never going to fit a narrow foot.
I can't find my digital camera in this mess so no photos.
I have no vacuum cleaner since my central vac is out and the vacuum that I brought home from the cottage needs a new bag....so I can't clean.
I can't decide if that's good or bad but I'm going to knit and drink tea for a while.

I have nothing to show for a week of knitting

2008-05-15T14:10:00.002-04:00

'cause I frogged back the whole blinkin sock for Sock Wars III. The sock was way too loose and apparently I misread the instructions for the heel which was supposed to be done in eye of partridge. Needless to say this is my last sock wars. The pattern was not well written and the wool, well let's just say I'll be giving away the rest of my Tofutsies. The stuff has no give! I'll donate it to someone who is allergic to wool.
Oh well, back to the drawing board and the proper size needles!

The war is on!

2008-05-12T20:42:00.002-04:00

I'm knitting some socks for Sock Wars III. My target is in Minnesota and I'm about half way done the first sock.
I'm not really fond of Tofutsies, it doesn't have much give and I'm worried that this will be a floppy sock. I'm keeping my knitting as tight as I can for this poor gal!
I can't wait to get back to my regular station!

Yay! There's stuff on the needles!

2008-05-07T11:38:00.003-04:00

Lot's a stuff on the needles.
First is my poncho. Designed as a project to teach me how to knit without looking at the needles. There is no pattern beyond increasing by 2 sts every other row and it's made with this lovely navy tweed colour.
I am on ball 5 of an 8 ball poncho so that's about halfway.

I have also cast on a pair of socks to be sent to a participant in Sock Wars II. I didn't particpate in war number two but I did volunteer to be an angel for wars III so I'm doing a little damage control and sending a pair of socks to someone who failed to receive socks in the last war. They are made with Debbie Bliss baby cashmerino and they are just flying off the needles. What a gorgeous yarn to work with! I love the pattern, I have actually managed to memorize it after only 9 repeats!
They look candy pink but they're not they're a cross between red and pink, kind of a deep coral colour.
I'm hoping to get this sock finished today so that I can be ready for Sock Wars III which starts on Friday. This most recent sock war is sponsored by SouthWest Trading Company and to reward me for volunteering to be a sock angel I received a great box full of yarn. Thanks you very much Joe for thanking me even before I started, it's very much appreciated.
That's all for now! Back to knitting!

Decorating or disguising your swift

2008-04-16T17:23:00.002-04:00

I leave my swift attached to a small table in the living room. Most days I don't notice it but today I was wondering if there was a way to make it look like it was supposed to be in the room. Maybe decorate it or something. Any suggestions?

What to knit next?

2008-04-07T09:02:00.002-04:00

Not much on the needles. I have started some Jaywalker socks
as my emergency knitting but I'm procrastinating on the next project. I could start the fair isle sweater from knit picks but I would have to increase my learning curve. The whole sweater is knitted in the round and it has steeks. Eek! Maybe I'll make a bunch of socks, blow out my sock stash and then make a sweater. I hate it when I don't know what to knit next. The project anticipation is the best part normally!

Inexplicable Knitter Behaviour

2008-04-02T00:14:00.003-04:00

Oh my! What fun we had today, spending the day taking knitting photos and then listening to Stephanie tell us how advanced our brains had become from knitting.
Here are my freestyle entries. My first entry is Sock on a Rock On A Button My second entry is Canadian Rock Icon, Gord Downie from the Tragically Hip.

The Black and White Aran Sweater

2008-03-30T11:38:00.002-04:00

Is done. Blocked nicely thanks to all of the advice from my friends. I spray blocked it thanks to Isabelle and I used the blocking wires from the Purple Purl Cafe which worked wonderfully thank you for all of your advice. Thanks Jean for even offering to come over and show me how but I did O.K. Thanks to all of my Tuesday SnB ladies for your ongoing comments and support. Now what to cast on next! Definitely something brainless. See you all on Tuesday at the Harlot Book Launch.

Can I wear the B&W Aran to go see the Yarn Harlot?

2008-03-24T22:51:00.002-04:00

Well it will depend on a couple of things. First of all I frogged back the arm that was missing increases and am knitting it back up. Second, I have to figure out how to block this thing and third it has to fit.
I will have my multi colour, legacy shrug on standby. Wish me luck! BTW, I am not ripping out the font and back. I'm not so daunted by the thought of knitting them up again but I definitely wouldn't use the same wool over again. This wool takes a kink rather seriously and once knit really should just stay that way.

The end of the aran is near

2008-03-23T22:01:00.002-04:00

I am working on the last sleeve of the black and white aran. I received my harmony needles from my sisters for my birthday (thank you Neen) and they are wonderful. I don't know if I am imagining things but my tension on the aran seems to be terrific since I switched to the harmony needles. I am actually considering re-knitting the front and back.
M.

a winter poem

2008-03-13T09:22:00.001-04:00

Canadian Poem
It's winter in Canada
And the gentle breezes blow
Seventy miles an hour
At twenty-five below.

Oh, how I loveCanada
When the snow's up to your butt
You take a breath of winter
And your nose gets frozen shut.

Yes, the weather here is wonderful
So I guess I'll hang around
I could never leave Canada 'Cause I'm frozen to the ground!!

I don't know who to give credit to because I received this in an email from my aunt Batya who lives in Israel.

Remember when you were little and the snow drifts used to be bigger than you

2008-03-11T17:15:00.004-04:00

and then you realized that since you were less than four feet tall it wasn't really that big a deal? Remember?
Well my son is 4 ft tall

but my husband is closer to 5'10"

What snow does to a knitter?

2008-03-09T16:58:00.006-04:00

Well, when I'm housebound I knit. I was supposed to go to Go Home Lake to go skiing at Mt St Louis this weekend but the snowstorm prevailed and I knit.
I started the sleeve of my black & white aran sweater
This means that yes, I have finished the front and back.

On the subject of snow and shoveling, I have to complement Manuel, my man servant, on his work this weekend. I believe that another billion cm fell this weekend.

I was so motivated by the sunshine on Sunday that I went for a walk on the beach with my girlfriend Lorrie.

Pleasantly suprised

2008-02-22T14:16:00.005-05:00

to have been able to finish the back of the Aran Sweater.
Thanks Maggie for encouraging me to cast on the front and get 8 rows done.
I am hoping that blocking will even out some of the wobbly areas as an 8 stitch move of a 12 stitch cable is tough to make pretty.
I picked up some Qiviut to make myself some gloves but the pattern is not exactly at the same gauge so I'm going to knit up a test glove from some cheap stuff before I unwrap $90 worth of wool!

Just go ahead and snow!

2008-02-12T20:00:00.000-05:00

'cause I'll just be snuggled down with my knitting, my fire and my glass of wine.
Manuel (my man servant) has put on some jazz and I'm just happy. The plow has just gone by my driveway and given me a 3 foot high drift behind my car and Manuel has poured me another glass of wine.

Knitting through the storm

2008-02-07T09:15:00.000-05:00

Last night was my Wednesday knit night and our little group was poised to meet on Lee Ave. I hemmed and hawed about driving there, worrying most about where I would find parking when snowplow drifts had taken over the streets. In the end I decided to walk and it only took about 15 minutes but I was drenched when I got there.
Great wine, Jeri and Jean for company, it was great. Thanks ladies.

I have some photos to post later, after I dig my car out.
M.

Knots, Snarls and Other Tangles

2008-02-01T09:13:00.000-05:00

I created such a snarl, tangle knot in my ball of wool that I had to cut it and rewind it into two balls and start again. In the effort of being a supremely thrifty knitter I decided that if I wound a ball of wool, used both ends, started 2 socks at the same time that I would be able to knit til the wool ran out thus preventing the dreaded leftover stash (which just goes to Rochelle anyways). So.....all was well through the toe, foot and heel. Somewhere up the leg a loop came out of the centre of the ball. I stuffed the loop back in, the loop came out agai, I re-stuffed. Then the loop came out and wound itself around everything, grew tentacles, and well became unmanageable.
I weighed the remaining ball, 34 grams left. So I cut the yarn from the project, untangled the mess and re-wound the first ball. It came out to 18 grams. I wound the second ball and magically it was 20 grams and now the first ball weighed 16 grams.
In the end the sock will be done but I don't think that I will ever try this again.

Tribulations

2008-01-23T08:03:00.000-05:00

The board at the curling club where I provide foodservice has made some changes to our position as exclusive caterer at the curling club.
After 2 1/2 years of service with fairness and integrity including sharing our financial information with the manager and using a transparent and fair pricing policy we have lost one of the largest events to a member (who is also a chef) who used to run the catering 2 years ago. Does this stink? Are there any honest people left on this planet? Can I live only among them?
The good news is that this decision is shaping our 2008/2009 business plan and that we will take preventative measure to make sure that this kind of hokey politics doesn't affect our business again. Who needs this kind of stress!
I couldn't make my SnB because I was too overwhelmed with the days' events. See you next time.

This and that!

2008-01-13T17:19:00.000-05:00

I don't make enough time to knit.
I have made a couple of hats, done more rows on my Monos Locos socks and tried to make some progress on my b&w aran sweater. I need to have a stockinette project on the go. I can't make up my mind what I'd like to make! Uggh! I'm such a perfectionist sometimes.
My sisters wants to me to skiing with her in Colorado in April, I promised my partner that I wouldn't go away until after the curling season....I don't know who will be the hardest/easiest to disappoint but someone is going to be disappointed.

I bought another new computer, I'm addicted!
I need to sell one of my laptops to finance this new purchase! I have to re-format the hard drive to get rid of my personal information.....this is getting complicated I think that I'll have another glass of wine.

See you

Thanks to my SnB friends for my Christmas presents

2007-12-21T15:36:00.000-05:00

This lovely wool is from Maggie of Died in The Wool Handmade Thank you to Maggie for my Christmas present and thanks also to Richelle and Rochelle for their coffee enabling gifts. You are all very special and I appreciate your thoughtfulness.
I have been back on the knitting wagon and have started my black and white aran sweater from 1987

I have also been working on my first toe up socks. I am making Los Monos Locos.
I have about an hour until I have to start packing up for the cottage so I'll try to get a little more knitting in.
Merry Christmas to everyone.

Another finished object

2007-12-12T12:35:00.000-05:00

My Square dance socks are finished. I was happy to learn 2 techniques. I learned how to do mitred squares and I made my first short row heel.
The socks are a little loose around the calf but I adjusted the pattern so that the foot fits well.
I have been working a lot of hours lately and haven't had the energy to knit at night. I'm looking forward to a break over Christmas.

Secret Pal 11 Goodies

2007-12-08T18:02:00.000-05:00

Look what my secret pal sent me:
There's sheepy notes and a sheepy magnet. A One Skein project book and some really cute little cupcake notecard. Chef's always love food notecards and a cupcake bookmark. Then theres:

Some really lovely scented hand cream and some lip butter as well as some chocolate orange truffle lip balm. A really cute apple slice soap and some adorable sheepy tissues that I don't think I'll ever open (they're too cute).

And what else came:

There's 3 'man' sock yarns. I have been remiss about knitting for my DH, al 3 look good for him. Some knit picks needles (I have never owned the Harmony needles, thankyou). Some really cute stitch markers, a sweet black yarn bag and a very funky ball of hand died yarn (which I have wound).

Thanks very much to my SP, hopefully you'll reveal yourself that I can read all about you. Excuse me now, I have knitting to do.

Hoodie Scarf and Fetching

2007-11-28T19:58:00.000-05:00

Don't fall off your seats or anything but I actually finished something actually 2 things.
Here is my Hoodie Scarf and Fetching. Both are made from Debbie Bliss Alpaca Silk.

Hooray for the Purple Purl!

2007-11-27T23:03:00.000-05:00

I'm debating on wether or not to post about this little slice of heaven because the knit night was packed. There must have been 50 or 60 knitters stop by for a little cameraderie. Friendly beyond belief this is definitely going to be an in spot.
I felt the stars align as I was able to pick up the pattern for the Lotus Blossom Shawl right at the store...and I was going to order it online.
I've got a bunch of projects lying around on beds blocking. Pictures soon I hope!

My SnB pals are just great!

2007-11-20T23:29:00.001-05:00

My Tuesday night pals are soooo much fun and I just hate it when I have to miss a meeting. Thanks for being there.

I am almost finished my hoodie and I hope to post the finished photo tomorrow.

My life just started feeling like it's back on track and unfortunately I'm heading into my busiest season, I'm just going to do my best to stay relaxed!

Back from holidays

2007-11-18T20:04:00.000-05:00

We snorkelled and we ate, baked breadfruit, coconut candy, banana bread, pina coladas. Yessiree I've gained 10 pounds but the views were spectacular and I got to knit.
I finished the sweater for my sister and I'll post the photos as soon as she sends me some.

Aloha!

On Holidays

2007-11-09T20:52:00.000-05:00

For a whole week.
I am with my DH, DS, dad, (sister and hubby) x 2 and we are here. See you on the 19th.

Cottage Socks Done!

2007-11-08T17:57:00.001-05:00

I didn't post the photo of the finished product because I hate shooting my own feet and I couldn't find someone to model them for me.
My 7 yo son put the on for me so that's why there are little skinny legs coming out of these socks.

2007-11-06T07:20:00.001-05:00

I dit it! I actually finished something, but you'll have to wait til later for the photos. Cheryl's christmas present is done! I forgot the needles for Monica's sweater coat (what kind of slip is that?) and I did start the hoodie scarf. Things are looking up.

Big Ambitions

2007-11-03T08:56:00.001-04:00

OK I'm going up to Go Home Lake this weekend and I'm going to try and finish, yes finish Monica's sweater coat.
I will also finish Cheryl's socks on the drive up and if I'm spectacularly luck I will start a hat/scarf combo for myself. I knit a sweater from some Debbie Bliss Alpaca silk and it looked terrible, it hugged in all of the wrong spots, so I painfully frogged it and rewound it and I'm looking forward to making come back alive.
See you Sunday with photos of finished stuff!

I didn't knit my Halloween costume

2007-11-02T22:26:00.000-04:00

Drac and wife had a wonderful time scaring little children and giving out witch's fingers.

2007-10-23T22:40:00.001-04:00

Yay I got to do some knitting today. I started a Christmas present for my business partner, she asked for a 'cottage sock'. Something warm, good to put into a winter boot and slipper like to walk around on bare floors.
I taught myself how to do toe up socks and I taught myself how to do short row heels. Boy, they knit up fast.
I'll post a picture as soon as both are done.
TTFN

Flash My Stash

2007-09-30T23:37:00.000-04:00

I can't. You see the whole idea that I have more wool that I can imagine projects for is overwhelming, oppressive and suffocating. I keep my wool in neat little bags and I am rarely more than 3 or 4 projects behind..........then my mom died in January 2005 and passed on her legacy in the form of wool. I have made socks, sweaters, cleaves, scarves and a sweater coat from my mommy legacy wool and I still have more. So...I can't bring myself to haul it out and take a photo, it would paralyze me for weeks. Suffice to say that I could knit 24 hours a day for about 2 1/2 years.

2007-09-30T13:37:00.000-04:00

sp11 first little packet
I was relaxing this afternoon with a little jazz on the front porch. I am trying to finish up Coachella that I am making for my sister. I needed some stitch markers and then I realized that I hadn't posted my first sp11 packet. Thank you very much to my secret pall for the stitch markers, cute zipper pull, wool wash and highlighter tape.
I really appreciate when other knitters share their little helper things with me (I need all of the help that I can get:) and I'm eager to try the highlighter tape to highlight my size in a multi size sweater.

Back to my knitting before someone needs me.

Hallelujah!

2007-09-25T11:51:00.000-04:00

Green socks for Maureen
I thought that I'd never get back to knitting but phew I did it! These are cotton socks for my friend Maureen at the cottage.
They are from red bird knits and while I loved the idea of the sock of the month club the reality is that I don't like green cotton socks. I have decided to leave their group because I was spending all of my time keeping up with the socks and putting my other work on hold....then the green socks came....so I actually knit up socks that I didn't like just because of the pressure of being in the club.

Overwhelmed by my knitting!

2007-09-17T14:46:00.000-04:00

Just can't figure out which project to work on. They are all calling my name, my green socks, my coat for Monica, my scarf, my b&w cable sweater.
Hmmm....maybe more scarf tonight, but the socks are almost done!! decisions, decisions.

I haven't been knitting

2007-09-10T12:36:00.000-04:00

I have been hosting bridal showers for my sister and a huge 50th birthday party for my husband all on the same weekend.
My sister & her husband are staying with me this week.
I knit up her sweater and twisted the shoulders so I have some frogging to do (sigh, shake head, sigh).
I'm also signing on to run a second restaurant in another curling club.
When we're official, I'll let you know.

I'll tell you what he is doing

2007-08-27T20:44:00.001-04:00

That cute little critter is trying to raid my green bin
Fortunately he was not successful and I didn't have the spend the next hour cleaning up egg shells and coffee grinds.

Who is at my back door and what is he doing

2007-08-27T20:35:00.001-04:00

Well we can all see who is at my back door. This little critter is pressed up against the window beside my door, he wasn't at all put off by all of the photographs that I was taking. In fact, I think that he was posing.

SP 11 contest 2 questions

2007-08-26T23:03:00.000-04:00

1. What is the one knitting accessory you could not live without?
Multiple measuring tapes, I lose them all the time.

2. If you're heading on vacation, do you take knitting with you? If so, how much and what type of project?
I usually take 2 projects, one which is simple stockinette stitch & something that requires concentration. I usually travel with socks because they're portable but I have been known to go on cruise ships with entire sweaters.

3. Where have you travelled to that you'd consider your favorite spot?
I have travelled in Canada, The US, Europe & the middle east. I love my cottage in Muskoka, I like to have a connection with the nature and the land.

4. What is your favorite knitting book at the moment? Do you own it?
Don't have a favourite.

5. Do you listen to podcasts? Which is your favorite(s)?
I'd love to start listening to them, maybe someone could suggest some. Does the yarn harlot do one?

6. If you could only knit with 1 color for the rest of your life, what color would that be?

Navy blue. I love red but honestly one colour for the rest of my life? Who made up this questionnaire!

7. If you were far into a project and then noticed a mistake near the beginning what would you do?
Depends, but I'd probably frogit or at least repair it.

8. Where is the most unsual spot you've ever knit?
While I had a ton of comments about knitting at a Dodgers game, I knit everywhere. Knitting while sailing was pretty challenging (see previous post).

My work is cutting into my knitting time!

2007-08-24T08:08:00.000-04:00

Is this right? I have had to catch up on my work after taking about 7 weeks off. This has left me no time to knit, also no time to catch up on weeding, laundry, house cleaning or anything else. Yesterday I knit 2 whole rows of that little green sock. Sheesh!

Catch ya later.

Knittin N Sailin

2007-08-20T22:47:00.000-04:00

Sailing from Kingston to Bath I found a little time to work on a sock. It was kinda hard to stay on course but I managed to steer with one foot.
I had terrific weather and it was just a great trip.

Secret Pal 11 Questionnaire

2007-08-20T08:25:00.000-04:00

1. What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with? What fibers do you absolutely *not* like?

I’m pretty easy going, I don’t work much with giant gauge or hairy wools.

2. What do you use to store your needles/hooks in?

I got a cool vinyl pouch with a clear window from my sp10 and a fabric circular holder.

3. How long have you been knitting & how did you learn? Would you consider your skill level to be beginner, intermediate or advanced?

I have been knitting for about 20 years, I am really great at some things, like working from a chart, cables, etc but I’m still struggling with fair isle in the round.

4. Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list?

Not right now but I might make one up.

5. What's your favorite scent?

Chanel Number 5, I’ve been wearing it since I was 15. I like lemon, ginger and other culinary type smells.

6. Do you have a sweet tooth? Favorite candy?

I adore all candy but I struggle with my weight so no thank you.

7. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do? Do you spin? Other crafts?

You must be kidding! I can barely find enough time for my knitting, maybe when I retire.

8. What kind of music do you like? Can your computer/stereo play MP3s? (if your buddy wants to make you a CD)

I have an Ipod. I like anything mainstream, jazz, classical, zydeko, etc.

9. What's your favorite color(s)? Any colors you just can't stand?

I’m easy going, but I’m not fond of browns.

10. What is your family situation? Do you have any pets?

I’m married with a 7 yo son. We have a dog & 2 cats.

11. Do you wear scarves, hats, mittens or ponchos?

Sure, I wear anything that’s nice looking.

12. What is/are your favorite item/s to knit?

I knit socks when I want to carry my project around with me but I’ll knit anything.

13. What are you knitting right now?

Socks, 2 colour cable sweater, I promised my sister Coachella from knitty. a coat for my sister.

14. Do you like to receive handmade gifts?

Of course.

15. Do you prefer straight or circular needles? Bamboo, aluminum, plastic?

Whatever suits the occasion.

16. Do you own a yarn winder and/or swift?

Just bought one, haven’t tried it yet.

17. How old is your oldest UFO?

my 2 colour cable sweater is about 2 years old, I had to frogit ‘cause of a tension issue, sigh.

18. What is your favorite holiday?

All holidays with good food.

19. Is there anything that you collect?

No, I’m married to a pack rat and our house is full enough.

20. Any books, yarns, needles or patterns out there you are dying to get your hands on? What knitting magazine subscriptions do you have?

I subscribe to Interweave, let me think about the first one. Check back soon.

21. Are there any new techniques you'd like to learn?

To be successful every time? Is this too much to ask the knitting gods?

22. Are you a sock knitter? What are your foot measurements?

Have size 8.5 US foot but a rather thick calf, ask for my full measurements if you’re going to make me full leotards. (haha)

23. When is your birthday?

February 4th.

24. Are you on Ravelry? If so, what's your ID?

Haven’t made time for this, check back soon.

2007-08-19T19:10:00.001-04:00

I am back on dry land as of 7 pm est.
It will be back to business this week after I hunker down and empty in inbox. ttfn.

2007-08-09T18:28:00.001-04:00

Away at the cottage means posting is excrutiating 'cause of dial up.
Will catch up with you all later when I return to the land of high speed.

Well here is my little mini tube

2007-08-02T21:32:00.001-04:00

before I completely frogged it back. Thanks to all of your suggestions on how to improve the tension. I'll try again soon.
I'm having a rough time with the short row heel on the June sock. I have knit it up a couple of times and I just keep dropping stitches while I'm working and well just having a hard time. I'm going to look for a book with some nice clear pictures.
It was hot as Hades at home but down at the yacht club it was much cooler.
I'll be working on the coat for my sister tomorrow 'cause it's so big I want it out of my house!!!
Hopefully I'll finish it for a nice photo.
TTFN

I had a Yarn Harlot moment!

2007-07-27T08:13:00.000-04:00

Thank you, thank you Stephanie. I was working dilligently on my February socks and had just finished the heel flap and went to try them on.
They did'nt fit me, they were too small. Oh well, I thought, I'll make them for my son....I couldn't squeeze my son's foot in either. When you make a sock that is soooo small that a 6 year old can't wear it you know you are in trouble.
I am currently reading Stephnaie Casts Off and thank my lucky stars for that!
I know that bad things can happen to good knitters.
I wondered, for a while, what I could do with a skinny tube of lovely Latvian style knitting and realized that I would have to frog the whole blinking thing.
So......to my SnB gals.....you will have to help me control my tension while I am knitting with colours. You will, however, be pleased to know that I have mastered continental and English knitting at the same time. I miss you all.
I did take a photo of the semi finished sock but I am at the cottage on dial up, so I'll upload it sometime next week.
Thank you Rochelle and Kim for visiting my blog and making me feel connected.
See you soon.

Just to let you know that I have flat feet

2007-07-21T09:05:00.000-04:00

While I was re-reading my posts I was wondering why my socks look so weird, then I realized that the problem is my foot not my sock! I am taking applications for foot model for my future socks. Requirements 1) Size 8ish foot 2) Must have an arch 3) Must have 5 toes. Compensation: Dinner and cocktails, just don't knit after (see last post)

Knitting my May socks and Cocktails on the Lido deck!

2007-07-21T08:53:00.000-04:00

Sound like the greatest combination right? Well I have a little story. During my California holiday we took a cruise and one afternoon, while my son was at the cruise ship camp, I decided that I would have a cocktail (or 2) and knit on the Lido deck.
The sun was shining, the calypso band was playing and I thought that I was doing a great job knitting...and I was, I just wasn't knitting the same pattern on foot as I had been knitting on the cuff. What to do, I was lost in the pattern, I think that it was the coconut something or maybe the mango something or other that was clouding my pattern reading ability. At 5 o'clock as the cocktails wore off I assessed that I would have to frog the foot back but unfortunately I was even incapable of that! I ended up having to rip the entire sock out! Then that night, after dinner, with only coffee in my bloodstream I re-knit that crazy sock back. So now I always travel with a stockinette only sock when I feel the urge to knit with cocktails in my system!

April socks!

2007-07-21T08:29:00.001-04:00

My April socks were pretty quick to knit! I had taught myself continental knitting and the wool is extremely comfortable. I can't wait for the weather to be warm enough to wear them.
I am looking for clear plastic boots (rainboot style) to showcase my new collection. I have seen some for children on the internet but I'd prefer to try them on. Has anyone seen them in Toronto?

I also finished my May socks while I was on a cruise ship in California but I can't find them! Oops, they'll turn up soon.

March socks!

2007-07-21T08:23:00.000-04:00

My march sock was tough but fun! I was still knitting English style but I tought myself how to do cables withought a needle and not a moment too soon! This sock was the absolute slowest knit I have done. Of course it didn't help that I only worked on it a half an hour at a time and never really got a rhythm. Unbelievably I ran out of wool and the last 10 rows of sock 2 were done with some spare wool from my April socks.

Welcome Muggles!

2007-07-21T08:20:00.001-04:00

This is our new addition. His name is Muggles and we rescued him 2 days ago. He is officially my son's kitten, so.....when we waks up at 4 am I send him to Nicholas:)
Holy crow, things are busy.
Julius had his rotator cuff surgery yesterday and is doing fine.

I'm on holidays!

2007-07-12T14:59:00.000-04:00

I have been in California since mid June. The good news is that I have done a ton of knitting. I finished my March and April SOTM and am almost done May! I am almost finished Coachella from knitty. I am knitting it up in Blue for my sister Maureen. The bad news is that my camera has run out of batteries and I can't show you anything. As soon as I'm back to Toronto I'll get all of the pictures posted.
To my SnB pals: I miss you, I miss you, when will I see you again!

What a wonderful surprise!

2007-06-05T18:37:00.001-04:00

Look what I got in the mail today.
A couple of sock knitting books that I had been thinking of buying but just didn't want to spend money on myself so I didn't bother and guess what? My secret pal read my mind (or my blog) and bought them for me plus a couple of other great patterns. I also got some to die for yarn, the blue on blue is delicious and I can't wait to knit it up. The green one is very spring like and the earth tones really appeal to me.
The black, white/grey wool is screaming out for some husband socks.
I just love At Knit's End, it is another little thing that I have been eyeing for myself for months but it seemed frivolous to gift yourself!!! Did you know that Stephanie is from my home town and comes to our knitting events? Anyways the book is fabulous, it is soooo funny and I can't put it down.
Thanks also for the circular needle storage, I like both and it sure beats the ziplock bag that I have been using.
The diary is also perfect, did you know that I make all of my own charts for my socks so that I can keep track of my progress? You must have, I was just finishing my last notebook.

Thank you very much secret pal, your gift was just great and I look forward to meeting you!!

Michelle

PS
I have finished 2 pairs of socks and will post photos soon but I'm late for my SnB.

The end of the curling season

2007-04-20T10:23:00.000-04:00

I can see the light at the end of the tunnel. The curling season is almost over and I might finally get some knitting in.
I took the opportunity of a long car ride to make up a Regia jacquard sock for my son but unfortunately ran out of wool before the second sock was finished.

I am speedily working on my March socks because Yikes my April Sock of the month has arrived.
Thank you to my secret pal for keeping in touch with me, especially when I have been so busy at work and have had so little computer time.
Spring has finally arrived and I'm ecstatic.

Doesn't look like much

2007-04-02T21:13:00.000-04:00

but there has been knitting going on.
I have photos, but can't post, don't ask it's a Mac thing! Argh!!!!!!
Have tought myself how to knit continental, yeah!
I can't believe that I waited 42 years!!! It is so much faster and so much less movement. It is wonderful but I'm still working on my gauge.
Have finished a top down sock for Nicky, had only enough wool for one sock, will have to go and get more for sock 2.
Have started my knit pick socks that Maggie gave me and have read over the instructions for my red bird knit socks.
Am going up north this weekend so hope to knit lots. I mean what's dinner for 18?

Mish

2007-03-10T14:01:00.000-05:00

Toe up progress!
It's hardly a sock but it's a start. I've figured out the cast on and I'm working to complete a mini sock. Rochelle, you were right that I should have practiced on bigger needles. I've used my usual 2 mm ones.

More Progress!
This is the sleeve of Monica's sweater coat. I created the cuff with by using a scaled down version of the bobble button band and I'm pretty happy with it.
I'm working on the assembly first before I make the button band.
Thank goodness I'm back to knitting 'cause my February sock of the month arrived and It's March! Yikes!

2007-03-05T17:57:00.000-05:00

Toe up, shmoe up! I have cast on the same poor stitches over and over, hopefully I'll get it sorted out.
Thank you Kimberley for showing me the basics, I just have to remember them.

More things that define Michelle

2007-03-05T17:52:00.000-05:00

Sometimes you have to make sacrifices to be the lynchpin. It might mean spending money on travel, taking time from work to cook and make the house ready, taking time from work to visit family. In the end, it's what I want to be remembered for.
Remember that!

I love my SnB

2007-02-28T12:28:00.000-05:00

Certainly not because I got a lot of knitting done last night!
Welcome to Trina (sp?) and Dory, hope that you had fun.
I was a chatting machine last night. Sorry to all of you who were trying to concentrate on your projects.

Things that define Michelle

2007-02-23T17:02:00.000-05:00

I love children and I believe in them
I think that everyone should eat home made food, all of the time
I want to live 'warm and fuzzy'
I stand up for my beliefs, even when they are not popular
I love my wacky landscaping, moose and all
I want to support local farmers, no asparagus in January please!
Root vegetables rock!
Cultural diversity is the best way to get great restaurants
I hope that I can make gingerbread houses with my son and his friends every year forever
....to be continued

2007-02-19T23:52:00.000-05:00

Wow! Huge 10 mm. needles can really make speedy work. I've finished making all of the pieces to my sister's sweater coat. Now for the interesting part. I'm creating the ribs and button band and collar from coloured wool, on smaller needles in a customized pattern.
I wanted to start tonight but the knitting gods said otherwise. Maybe I'll get some work done on Wednesday.
Haven't run or swam in weeks, the snow is completely holidng me back, I've been aching to get out. The weather is predicted to get better this week, keeping my fingers crossed.

2007-02-11T19:19:00.000-05:00

Doesn't matter how much you plan, it's all in the execution.
I was planning to get a huge chunk of Monica's sweater coat done this weekend, so I packed up the wool, the needles, I even finished off the sleeves and then I left the pattern at home.
So what to do? I thought maybe I'd teach myself how to make toe up socks since I had some wool leftover and Nicholas has small feet. Unbelievably I did not bring any circular needles with me.
Oh well, I spent a great deal of time staring out the window and snomobiling.
Now back at home I'll get started, maybe even tonight.

Secret Pal Questionnaire

2007-02-08T22:42:00.000-05:00

1. What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with? What fibers do you absolutely *not* like?
I like to knit with yarn that is easy to work with, no mohair, I frog all of my mistakes so I need to be able to rip out easily, sigh.
2. What do you use to store your needles/hooks in?
A tall brass floor vase, not very practical for my SnB sessions.
3. How long have you been knitting & how did you learn? Would you consider your skill level to be beginner, intermediate or advanced?
I've been knitting about 20 years but I'm self taught. Some things I do well but I'm always learning.
4. Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list?
No, maybe I should.
5. What's your favorite scent?
Freesia and Chanel number 5.
6. Do you have a sweet tooth? Favorite candy?
I make and eat all candy but I'm partial to caramel. I'm a low carber so I try not to indulge often.
7. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do? Do you spin?
Don't spin, I'm dizzy enough!!! I used to sew but I'm too busy now.
8. What kind of music do you like? Can your computer/stereo play MP3s? (if your buddy wants to make you a CD)
I'm a creature of habit. I like Jazz, Latin, happy music. I have an ipod and a bevy of computers.
9. What's your favorite color(s)? Any colors you just can't stand?
I love burgundy. Don't like neon colours.
10. What is your family situation? Do you have any pets?
I'm married, happily, with a son, a dog, a cat, some fish and occasionally mice but they're not pets they just get in the house.
11. Do you wear scarves, hats, mittens or ponchos?
Yes
12. What is/are your favorite item/s to knit?
Lately I've been knitting socks 'cause they are fast but I like everything.
13. What are you knitting right now?
A sweater coat for my sister. When my mother died I inherited he stash which I fondly call my mommy legacy wool. I'm trying to make things from it for my sisters.
14. Do you like to receive handmade gifts?
Yes
15. Do you prefer straight or circular needles? Bamboo, aluminum, plastic?
I like different needles for differing things.
16. Do you own a yarn winder and/or swift?
No but I'm in the market.
17. How old is your oldest UFO?
I can proudly say that all of my projects are current but some take months when I think that they'll only take weeks.
18. What is your favorite holiday?
Anything with feasts.
19. Is there anything that you collect?
Cookbooks, but I shouldn't.
20. Any books, yarns, needles or patterns out there you are dying to get your hands on? What knitting magazine subscriptions do you have?
Knitter's.
21. Are there any new techniques you'd like to learn?
Yes, I'm looking to learn how to knit English and Continental at the same time to speed up my fair isle project that I"m working on.
22. Are you a sock knitter? What are your foot measurements?
I have a 9 1/4 inch foot.

23. When is your birthday?
February 4th.
poste

Busy, busy, busy

2007-02-08T22:26:00.000-05:00

and not so much time for knitting. I've finished my aloe/jojoba socks and as soon as I present them (late Christmas present) I'll ask my model to pose for a picture.
I have finally started Monica's sweater coat, it's a bit of an experiment. For the first time I'm knitting on 10 mm needles. Holy crow does that make knitting fast.
Stay tuned for more fascinating knitting news.
TTFN

Another contest, a little more fun and excitement in my life

2007-01-19T11:14:00.000-05:00

I've entered another knitting competition. The address is http://groups.yahoo.com/group/knitoff/
As usual I'm not actually sure what I've entered but it will be good motivation and fun.
Michelle

2007-01-16T17:07:00.000-05:00

These socks were made just for me and I'm very happy with them. They wash nicely, that is my husband can wash them in the dark load and they require no special treatment, yay!
I can longer remember what they are made from because they took me so darn long to make that I've lost the label.
Oh well.
I'm working another pair of socks for my business partner, they are made from yarn with aloe vera and jojoba oil and it's just wonderful to work with.
I'm off to my Tues SnB tonight.
I am trying to schedule more knitting time in, I don't seem to get very far with my projects.

2006-11-09T14:05:00.000-05:00

Nicky's sweater that he chose himself from the pattern book is done. Typical for my 6 yo, he yanked it on, posed for the photo, yanked it off and ran back to his toys.
Thanks to my Tuesday night SnB for their help in assembling it and making it look so good.
Don't point out the mistakes, I know about them and I'm happy with the sweater.
I'm going to start on my sister Monica's sweater coat, it is being made from my mother's legacy wool. I'm going to work out the pattern this weekend.

So much fun, all in one day

2006-10-31T23:09:00.000-05:00

The only trouble with the TTC Knit Along is that the fun stops at the end of the day. The event seems to draw the most ecclectic mix of characters and I'm sorry that I have to wait another 6 months until I see them again.
I'm exhausted from Halloween and I'm just starting to sew up Nicky's sweater.

My dog does not like my cat

2006-10-18T10:39:00.000-04:00

and my cat is so sweet. Koda loves to cuddle on your lab while you're knitting and only rarely batts at the wool. Piwo, the mangy mutt, loves to bark and chase Koda. Koda leapt off of my lap and Piwo charges after him getting totally tangled in my wool and dragging a red ball of wool all around the room until I finally corrall him and untangle his legs.
My doggie needs manners.