Stashmonkey

I wanna get lost in your rock and roll and drift away

2009-04-17T16:16:00.002-04:00

I disappeared there for a while again - sorry about that! I think I'm back for good, but we shall see what happens. At any rate, I've decided that I miss the posting titles as song lyrics, so that's back too.

Hope everyone is enjoying this sunshine-y day! The first of many I hope.

With my beautiful spring day I decided to make a trip to the yarn store. You know, 'cause who doesn't want to spend a lovely spring day buying a crap-ton of merino wool. The obvious choice, don't you think? So here's what I got:

7 skeins of Sublime in Color 0019: Waterleaf to test knit this beauty

5 skeins Jojoland Melody in Color MS26 to knit a Swirl Shawl for my mom's birthday

And a few buttons for a Shalom cardigan that I'm almost finished with.

Pictures coming soon - if I can find my camera under all this yarn!

Squid and Ink

2009-03-27T16:12:00.004-04:00

Sweater, what sweater?

Maybe I can distract you with some yummy socks! Sorry for the crappy picture. I had to go to the post office today and by the time I got back the sun was gone. But, if you look closely you can see a tiny part of Wicked on the left edge of the photo. FYI the body is done, now it's just the sleeves to go.

Specs:
Pattern: Squid by MamaBlue
Needles: US 1 1/2
Yarn: Mama Blue Troika Sock in Ink
Pattern Notes: Great pattern! Easy to follow, but not mind-numbingly boring. I had only just discovered Mama Blue when the original Squid and Ink kits came out, so I missed out on them. Luckily, I was able to snag the highly-sought-after Ink in Troika Sock recently, so I gave it a go. It's kind of a bonus that I missed out on the original, because the kit included the simple merino yarn and I'm an MCN girl myself.

There was a time when I swore off of buying sock patterns. Mostly because there are so many that are free and I also have a crapton of knitting books, many of which have some quality sock patterns in them. However, I couldn't resist this one, and I think these are calling to me for my next pair. In fact, I may have already gone ahead on bought it. Ravelry is too good of an enabler. Grr. But it is almost my birthday, so it's ok, right?

Oops!

2009-03-19T12:05:00.003-04:00

I have been making impressive progress on Wicked. I started it on Saturday and last night I pretty much finished the main body of it. Up next is the pocket. So, I scrounged around looking for the US7 straight needles only to discover that they have been chewed on. That's right, chewed on. And not by me. I have vague recollections of a visit from a friend and her puppy, resulting in knitting disaster.

I've tried sanding down the needle in question and the yarn is still snagging on it. I think I will have to borrow some needles or buy new ones. In the meantime, it seems that something new jumped onto my needles this morning.

I was really trying hard to be a one-project-at-a-time kind of knitter, but it seems that this is just not to be. Alas, I suppose I will suffer through some Squid Socks in Mama Blue Troika Ink. It's rough, I know, but I'll try to get through it.

I'm back!

2009-03-16T18:53:00.005-04:00

So, it's been quite a while, but at long last I am back. Miss me?

Besides revamping the blog, here's what I've been up to lately. Check it out - my own store! I haven't made any sales yet, but I'm keeping my fingers crossed. I have a whole pile of new things to put up in the shop, but I have to take some more photos before I can do that.

I've also been consumed by this lately:

It's Wicked. I've been dreaming about this sweater for years and finally decided to just go for it. Now that I've done about 1/3 of it, I'm already thinking about making a cardigan version like this one. Haven't decided on a color yet. Suggestions are welcome!

Even if things get heavy we'll all float on

2007-05-23T18:34:00.000-04:00

I got tagged by Helena for seven things about me, but I've actually already done that one. No worries, I've decided to change it to 7 Exciting Things That Make Me Smile. As things continue to go well over here at Chéz Griffin, I don't think this will be all that hard. Let's see:

1. Yesterday I got my invite to Ravelry , and I just can't stop playing around with it. I think I'm going to end up with carpal tunnel syndrome from all of the computer time I'm logging these days. I hope I don't have to take a knitting break due to sore wrists. Today I realized I have a message box over there and inside it was a hello from Eleanor ! She's now my first Ravelry friend - yay!

2. There are less than 20 days of school left. While I'll miss my school, I'm so happy to be moving on. These last few weeks will be really tough, knowing the excitement of what's coming next!

3. I have had some yucky dentist issues of late, and after three Wednesdays in a row of getting all novacained-up and having work done, I am now dentist free for the next six months! Yay!

4. I'm still in the midst of packing up my entire apartment. So far I have 13 full boxes, 2 extra thick trash bags, and 1 very large suitcase all set to go. In addition, I have 4 1/2 bags of clothing/shoes to donate to charity, 2 bags of books that are ready to move on (used bookstores and library donations), 1 bag of books to go back to school, and approximately 6 bags of apartment trash. It's coming along, but there's a lot left to do. The thing that makes me smile about it is the fact that I finally have a good reason to get rid of stuff. I've been in this apartment for 3 years now, and that's a new record for me. I've accumulated quite a bit of crap in that time, and it's time to say goodbye to a lot of it.

5. Hehe, Socks that Rock yarn is abundant in my stash. After starting in on cataloguing my stash for Ravelry, I've realized that I have nine unused skeins of the stuff. Yum! Much of that is due to the recent acquisition seen below:

Then of course there is the April sock club yarn:

6. I'm going to Harvard!

7. I'm going to Harvard!

Ok, I cheated at the end there, but that was a lot of things, don't you think? I think I did pretty good. Plus, Harvard counts for AT LEAST two, if not three or four, on a list of things that make me happy.

Previous Title: Dave Matthews Band, "Monkey Man"

The lucky one's going to get it all

2007-05-21T16:43:00.000-04:00

I'm glad you all liked the baby bear sweater as much as I do! Baby Griffin will definately be getting one of those. In addition, I've been frogging some old items and have consequently added to my stash. I have about 6 skeins of this yummy Sirdar Snuggly Domino.

It's clearly designated for Baby G, but what will it become? I have this pattern for it, but I'm not sure how I'll like it in this colorway. Still thinking on that one . . .

There's also some pink cotton yarn that I think is Classic Elite Premiere and some light blue cotton (maybe Tahki Cotton Classic?) for when the baby is actually born. Although both may become sweaters for my friends' twins.

Talk about planning ahead on projects! Sheesh! I better speed up on my current projects. The Dollar and a Half cardi is about 70¢ along, and my bandwagon scarf (can you guess which one?) is about halfway there. Pics of both coming soon.

Previous title: The Beatles, Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da

With a couple of kids running in the yard . . .

2007-05-20T18:12:00.000-04:00

News! I have news! My brother and his wife are going to have a baby! Courtney's due in November. They've decided to wait it out and let the sex of the baby be a surprise, which is great for them, but kind of sucky for an anxious and over-excited knitter. Still, I think the idea of letting it be a surprise is kinda cool too. So, who's got suggestions on their favorite gender-less baby patterns? I'm thinking this is the perfect excuse for the Debbie Bliss teddy bear cardigan that I have always loved.

Also, I have a collection of rainbow colored leftovers of Tahki Cotton Classic - maybe a cute baby item? All ideas are much appreciated.

Before I say goodbye for today I also want to thank both Johanna and Helena for their really sweet words of encouragement and support. I'm still working on staying cheery, but lately things are good.

Previous title: Our Lady Peace, "Innocent"

I remember feeling low

2007-05-14T20:38:00.000-04:00

Hello there. It's been a long while. Since the last post, so much has happened in my life - almost all of it has been good news. But the thing is, I've been in a bit of a slump lately. I don't know why or what it's all been about, but I just haven't been able to shake the feeling. It feels stupid and selfish given all that's been going right for me lately and yet I can't seem to get over myself and just be happy. I think maybe I'm not used to feeling like things are going my way and that idea kinda scares the shit out of me. It's not like things have ever been particularly difficult in comparison to what most people's lives are like, and it's certianly not like I have any right to compain. But for a long time now, that's just the way I've been feeling. Maybe I'm waiting for the bottom to fall out (is that even the right metaphor?). I've certainly been having my share of nightmares of things going wrong. There was one about finding out that my apartment didn't go through because they wanted a $30,000 security deposit that I wasn't willing to give. Sure, it could happen. Even more believable is the one about the tadpoles that we were caring for in my classroom. I walked in and they had sprouted wings and were flying around the room. Clearly possible. My personal favorite and most recent is a dream about showing up at Harvard and finding out that they never got my response to accept the offer of admission. I swear no drugs have been involved in creating this dreams.

At any rate, and perhaps most importantly, today things have been different. It was a beautiful sunny day, not too hot and not too cold. The sky was one of those Magritte paintings with the white fluffly clouds against a soft blue background - I love when the clouds do that. I left school happy today. I went to Whole Foods for some groceries - still happy, and I HATE going grocery shopping. I got home and finally did some packing. I can't tell you how long I've been trying to make some progress in packing my apartment, but today I feel like I finally did. I made a solid effort in the bedroom (that sounds so dirty) and packed up a good portion of the closets as well as a bureau. I even got rid of four trash bags of unused stuff (three for donations and one real trash). Pretty good, no?

For the life of me, I'm still not 100% sure of what's been up with me lately but I'm glad things seem to be turning around. I'll try to keep on looking for that silver lining.

Previous title: Death Cab for Cutie, "Soul Meets Body"

A melody softly soaring through my atmosphere

2007-04-10T16:06:00.000-04:00

I'm off to Paris on Friday for April vacation (a perk of being a Massachusetts teacher), so this will likely be my last post until I get back. I was puzzling over what to leave you with while I was driving home from work today and listening to my new iPod playlist when BAM it hit me. How about my new iPod playlist? In anticipation of an 8 hour flight, I figured some new tunes were in order. Here's what I'm listening to these days:

1. Hurricane - Bob Dylan
No real reason. I downloaded this one a while ago and never listen to it because it's not on any of my other playlists, so I stuck it first in line.

2. Memory (Acoustic) - Sugar Cult

3. Soul Meets Body - Death Cab for Cutie

4. Better Than - John Butler Trio
I just love this song. It makes me smiley and happy.

5. Sell the Lie - The Damnwells

6. Chasing Cars - Snow Patrol
I thought I had outgrown Snow Patrol, but this song gets better each time I listen to it.

7. Suddnely I See - KT Tunstall

8. Face Down - The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus

9. Juicy - Better Than Ezra
Now that I've realized this song is in the latest Chili's commercial (I think it's Chili's anyway), it's a bit less appealing. Not quite ready to take it off the list yet, however.

10. It Don't Matter - Donovan Frankenreiter

11. Three More Days - Ray LaMontagne

12. Draive Away - Matt Perrone

13. She's Gonna Rise - Citizen Cope & Santana
This song is me in so many ways that I just can't even begin to explain here. It just seems to fit in my life in so many ways lately, particularly the chorus.

14. Hang Me Up to Dry - Cold War Kids

15. The Way We Get By - Spoon

16. Moment - Gran Bel Fisher

17. The Guy That Says Goodbye to You - Griffin House
An inkling of country, which I generally can't listen to, but this song is fabulous.

18. Crazy - Gnarls Barkley
I was done with this one for a while, but now that it's not so overplayed I kinda like it again.

19. The Dark of the Matinee - Franz Ferdinand

20. Let Me Go - Sonya Kitchell

21. Work It Out - Jurassic 5 featuring Dave Matthews Band
So very un-DMB that I just really dig it.

22. Nothing Left to Lose - Matt Kearney

23. I Know I'm Not Alone - Michael Franti & Spearhead

24. Smile - Lily Allen

25. For Us - Pete Yorn

26. Hey There Delilah - Plain White T's
Another warm fuzzy song for me.

27. Face Down (Acoustic) - The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus
After making this mix, I realized this song is on it twice. Oops! I really like both versions and can't decide which to get rid of, so I figured that there is room enough for both. I mean, really, the playlist is almost two hours long, so I can deal with hearing a song more than once.

28. Fidelity - Regina Spektor

29. Seven Nation Army - The White Stripes
I wonder when I last made a mix that DIDN'T have a Jack White song on it.

30. Mad World - Michael Andrews & Gary Jules
Bonus points if you know who did the original. Googling is totally cheating.

Those who really pay attention will find today's post title in one of the above.

So know that you know all of my recent musical purchases, I'm wondering what you are listening to these days. Care to share? I'm always looking for something new.

Previous Title: Dave Matthews Band, "What Would You Say?"

Mom, it's my birthday

2007-04-06T15:01:00.000-04:00

Well, it's my blogiversary anyway. My birthday was last weekend. So, a year later. I guess things are very different now than they were a year ago. I'm leaving my job and going back to school. Moving to the other side of the river. Hmm. That's all I can think of that's different. Big things though, don't you think?

At any rate, I've been quiet here for a while, so I have quite a few things to show you. How about a few pairs of socks to celebrate the occasion?

First, up, a finally finished pair of Jaywalkers. The first sock predates this blog, maybe by as much as a year.

Specs: Jaywalker Socks from Magknits - is a link really necessary at this point?
Needles: US 1 (2.25mm)
Yarn: Lorna's Laces Shepard Sock in Jeans colorway
Pattern Notes: Seriously folks? They're Jaywalkers. I don't think I need to expand on that. I would like to mention, however, that if you decide to knit one sock and then wait a year and a half to knit the second, take copious notes people. Really it's the needle size I'm talking about. I guess there is a huge difference in gauge between knitting with dpns and knitting with two circular needles. I restarted the second sock three times before I got the right gauge. Maybe that's not so much of a "taking notes" problem as it is a "don't be a dumbass" problem. Probably should have realized what was going on much quicker than I did. At any rate, stick a fork in these bad boys, because they are FINALLY done.

Up next, my Mad Cow socks from Sock Madness. It really didn't take me this long to complete them, I just fell off the edge of the Earth for a little while, like say the past month. I finished them a few days after the masses did. Considering how late I started this race, I'd say that's pretty good.

Specs: Mad Cow socks from Sock Madness
Needles: US 1 (2.5mm)
Yarn: Koigu KPM in brown (number anyone?) and KPPM in pinkish (P30857)
Pattern Notes: A fun pattern, but I'm not sure what went on with the heels. I ended up with these horrible little holes by the heel gussets. Not sure if it's a pattern flaw or my own knitting problem. At any rate, a little extra sewing up and they have been fixed. No one will ever know. Unless they read this.

I'm so sure there's another pair of finished socks you haven't seen, but until I can figure out what they are, you'll just have to wait on those ones. In the meantme, here's the latest project:

Yes, it's the Dollar and a Half Cardigan (all 31¢ that I've done so far) from the Spring 2007 Interweave. Maybe if it stops snowing in Boston I will one day get to wear it. Don't feel to badly for us up here braving the cold. It hasn't snowed since yesterday.

To sum up this post: Yay blogiversary! Yay finished Jaywalkers and Mad Cows! Boo snow!

Previous title: Weezer, "Buddy Holly"

What's a matter babe, are you feelin' sick?

2007-03-07T15:57:00.000-05:00

Ick. I've been pretending not to be sick since about Friday, but it finally caught up with me on Monday afternoon. I've been out sick for two days now and, let me tell you, daytime tv is highly overrated. On the plus side, this sore throat/general ickiness has allowed me some knitting time.

Well, Johanna asked for it, so you can blame her when you are suddenly overwhelmed by the number of active projects I've got going right now.

Here you see a few items resued from the UFO list. At the top, we have the Union Square Market Pullover from Interweave Knits Fall 2005. And that's about when I started it and almost finished it. It popped out of the drawer a few weeks ago to FINALLY get sewn up, when I realized that one of the sleeves had a problem, so now I'm reknitting the shoulder part of the left sleeve. One day it will be done. Oh yes, it will be done. (Channeling Mike Myers there - quick, what movie was that from?)

The pretty purple number seen above is the Frieda sweater, which I don't think ever literally made it onto the UFO list, but which has spent a few months in the drawer of knitting death. I did the body and neck, then got scared to mess up the sleeves. The original pattern continues with the cable along the sleeves, but it makes for poofy shoulders, and I'm just not into that. Plain jane stockinette for this knitter! I have finally started the first sleeve. It's about half way done at this point. Hopefully it will be a success, because I'm not sure this sweater will survive another trip to the drawer of death.

Finally, you may have spotted a pair of Jaywalkers in the pile up there. These are Lorna's Laces in Denim. I love them, but I think I just got tired of the pattern. Now, a year (or maybe 2) later and my gauge is totally different so the striping looks different. I've ripped and reknit the beginning of the second sock three times in the past month. Now that I've finally gotten as close as I'm going to get on matching the gauge of the first sock, I'm no longer interested. Probably because it requires DPNs and I've long outgrown that phase of my sock-knitting career. Eventually I'll finish them, but the race is on as to which of the three knitted items in the photo above will be finished first. It's anybody's guess at this point. Care to make a wager on it?

What's that? Three WIPs not quite enough for you? Here's one more:

I've started Crumpets for my "niece." Well, she's not really my niece, but I'm her Auntie Rachel, so she gets to be called by niece, at least for now. I love the look of it, but a baby dress on size 1 needles is no picnic and I can't work that long on it before my wrists protest. I've changed up the pattern a bit, which is causing the problem. I love the look of the dress, but I hate that it calls for a thick yarn. It's just not right for a summer dress for a baby. So I've substituted Dalegarn's Stork for Lion Brand Cotton Ease. I'm following the pattern for the biggest size in order to actually get a size for a 6 month old. It's really an adorable dress!

And yes, there is actually a fifth item on my needles. I couldn't help it and I knit the toe of my first Rockin' Sock Club sock, but now I need new needles for the rest. It calls for size 0s for the foot part, and given the way I manhandled my needles to do the toe on size 1s, I just don't think I want to subject my wooden size 0s to that kind of abuse. They would never survive that beating. No pics of this one since it's just not far enough along for a photoshoot.

I'm also a part of Sock Madness (details coming soon). The first round of this March Madness knit-athon starts this weekend, so I guess that'll make a sixth item on my needles. Of course, I'm away for a wedding this weekend, so I'll be starting about 48 hours behind the other knitters. Wish me luck in surviving this one!

Previous title: Say Anything, "Wow, I Can Be Sexual Too"

Know that you'll be my downfall

2007-03-05T18:08:00.000-05:00

I've been stalking the mailbox again. Lurking around the corner, just waiting for that package to arrive . . .

Okay, so I do have more of a life than literally standing at the mailbox, waiting. But I have been just DYING for this package to come. Well all I can say is, it was worth it! My Rockin' Sock Club kit finally arrived. I hate to spoil the fun for anyone wanting to be surprised, so if you want to see the kit, just click here. I know, I know, I'm making you work for it today.

Let me just tell you that I am totally in love with Socks that Rock yarn and it is so hard not to go online and order some more right this second with my new 10% off coupon (thank goodness for silly bank errors). It's also so hard to continue with all of the other projects that I have on the needles. I just want to rip into my new skein of sock yarn and get going (no worries, I will rip gently into it). I really swore that I was going to finish at least one project before starting this new one, but I can't stop myself. Socks that Rock is clearly my downfall.

Oh yeah, and thanks for all of the sweet words about Harvard. It still hasn't really sunk in yet, but it's getting there. I'm planning to move to Harvard Square over the summer, and I'm just beginning to think about that change, so clearly I'm not yet quite able to wrap my head around being a student again and doing it at this school in particular.

Previous title: Counting Crows, "Hangin' Around"

I been bummin' around this old town too long

2007-03-01T18:12:00.000-05:00

Apparently someone else thinks so too, because guess where I'm going in September! I am so beside myself right now I can't even handle it. I don't think I'll sleep for a week from all the excitement!

Can you believe it?

HARVARD!

More knitting content when my hands stop shaking.

Previous Title: Eurythmics, "Sweet Dreams"

Sweet dreams are made of these

2007-02-16T16:57:00.000-05:00

I've been stalking the mailbox lately, and today it came to much success! My Dirty Knitter Swap package arrived, and man did I make out well! Linda really spoiled me rotten. Check out what I saw when I opened the box:

And look at all the packages inside:

Unwrapped:

Up above you can see two yummy drink recipes, one for a Chocolate Mint Martini and one for a Chocolate-Covered Cherry Martini (off to the liquor store I go!). In the middle row you can see a Molten Chocolate Lava Cake mix, chocolate rimming sugar, and a heart-shaped zipsack (a little bag with a tote bag inside). In the bottom row are some chocolate swizzle sticks. Oh yeah, and the yarn! Cherry Tree Hill (my fave) supersock in Earth and Lang Silkdream in color 22 (yummy chocolate brown).

I love everything! Thanks again Linda, you are by far the best.

Previous title: Turin Brakes, "Painkiller"

Batten up the hatches, here comes the cold

2007-02-14T15:12:00.000-05:00

Hurray for snow days! And what better way to spend a snow day than knitting mittens?

Specs:
Pattern: my own
Needles: US 4
Yarn: Lorna's Laces Shepherd Worsted in Irving Park colorway; Classic Elite Lush in color 4413 (black)
Pattern Notes: I may have found two new favorite yarns. They're both SO soft. The black mittens are for a friend at work. I've already given them to her, but I have some separation anxiety. There may be a Lush pair in my future. In the meantime, I'll have to settle for the Lorna's pair. This yarn would make a great sweater, if only I could find a pattern I like for it. Any ideas?

I've also been working on my Anemoi mittens, because one can never have too many pairs of mittens, right? New pics coming soon!

Previous Title: Cyndi Lauper, "True Colors"

I see your true colors shining through

2007-02-08T19:44:00.000-05:00

If you see a bandwagon speed by, look closely and you'll see me on it. Here are my Anemoi Mittens, which are a part of my efforts for Project Spectrum February/March.

Gotta love the blue and brown combo! I have a few complaints about the yarns, but that's my own fault I guess. Mainly I'm annoyed because they aren't the same gauge exactly and the blue is a little thinner. While the blue is supposed to be background, the brown really jumps out and the pattern's a bit obscured as a result. I knew I shouldn't have believed that yarn store owner (store not to be mentioned here) who told me it wouldn't matter.

Ah, well, as my first foray into fair isle (not including a poorly chosen project a few years ago that remains unfinished), I'm still really happy with these. This picture was taken yesterday afternoon. After a few more hours of work, I now have one almost completed mitten and I'm still going strong. Bonus: These mittens are also my effort for Fair Isle February. I'm loving reading the posts over there and seeing what everyone is up to!

In addition to these mittens, I've got another blue project. Check out these guys:

Specs:
Pattern: Toe Up Generic Socks from Knitty
Needles: US 2
Yarn: Socks that Rock in Chapman Springs, medium-weight (STASH YARN ALERT!)
Pattern Notes: Don't think I have any. I do plan on using this again to create some more exciting socks, but for this yarn, plain-old-stockinette was just right.

Upcoming Project Spectrum ideas include a pair of socks in Colinette's Jitterbug yarn in a funky charcoal and a pair of black mittens in the softest angora wool I've ever felt. Ever. Maybe I'll also finish up some old Jaywalkers in Lorna's Laces Jeans colorway.

Previous Title: The Killers, "Read My Mind"

Can you read my mind?

2007-02-07T18:13:00.000-05:00

I know, I suck about posting lately. Conversation over. Moving on to the good stuff.

Last week (yes, it has really been that long) I came home to find this waiting for me.

I gave it the Squeeze and Shake test, as per usual, and pleasently found that the package was quite squishy. Squishy = yarn. Squishy = good.

And lookee what was inside the squishy package:

It's like my secret pal was inside my brain, I swear. The last time I went to my LYS, I was checking out that yarn you see on the right, Lanna Grossa Meilenweit in just that color. I also love the one on the left, nice and subdued. It's Austermann Step with Aloe Vera and Jojoba Oil. Yes, Apparently Now Every Word Gets Capitalized For No Real Reason. Moving on . . . please don't ask me the colorways, because they are all numbers and I just can't handle that right now. Believe me when I tell you that the pictures are pretty true to the colors, and let's leave it at that.

But wait!!!! What's that hiding inside the yarn?

It's lip gloss. What's fun is that each color kinda goes with the yarn it was hiding inside. There's also a lip plumper, just for fun. Haven't tried it yet, but one day I will. Thank you Secret Pal! Now quick, everybody go over to Monkeys Love Yarn and tell Chee-uh how much she rules. Please please please do it for me because I feel so badly that it took me this long to post about the package.

And while you're out visiting others in blogline, go say hi to the Knit Mongrel, who I've had the pleasure of spoiling for the last few months.

Previous title: Train, "I Am"

I'm here for my sanity, sanity I am here for you

2007-01-25T18:37:00.000-05:00

Somewhere along the way I seem to have lost sight of myself. I think lately I've just let all of the hassles of everyday life get me down without stopping to enjoy the good things. I've been stressed out over writing report cards, having teacher conferences, driving through traffic, dealing with lines at the grocery store, etcetera etcetera etcetera. There are a lot of little stresses that we all deal with each day and we let ourselves get hung up on them. Don't pretend you don't; you know it's true.

I think today I have begun the journey back to who I really am. Why am I waxing poetic all of a sudden, you ask? Well, I finally got roped into going back to yoga. And I hemmed and hawed and dug in my heels and tried to avoid it. But guess what? It was really what I needed to get back on track. Yoga is apparently my little window of sanity in an insane world.

But let's not go overboard with the healthy lifestyle thing. I'm still going to crack open a bottle of wine tonight.

Previous Title: Barenaked Ladies, "If I Had a Million Dollars

You always wanted a monkey

2007-01-22T16:14:00.000-05:00

I'm not really this quick of a knitter, but I have another pair of socks to show you.

Specs:
Pattern: Monkey from Knitty
Needles: US 2
Yarn: Socks that Rock in Puck's Mishief, medium-weight
Pattern Notes: Like all of Cookie's patterns that I've had the pleasure of knitting, this one is well-written and easy to follow. I found that I was able to memorize the chart after only a few repeats. I did make some modification though to allow for a heavier weight of yarn than the pattern calls for. I turned it into a 14 stitch repeat and I eliminated rounds 8 and 9 of the pattern to make this work. I don't think the design looks all that different, but the socks are just my size. I have narrow feet, so this solution may make them too skinny for anyone else's feet. And check it out - the socks actually match! No dye lot issues! Hooray for one big skein (instead of two little ones)!

Previous Title: Our Lady Peace, "Made of Steel"

Hold your head high, don't look down

2007-01-21T17:27:00.000-05:00

I finished these bad boys a while ago, but haven't gotten around to posting them - shocker, I know! At any rate, may I present the "Don't Look Down" socks.

Specs:
Pattern: Giotto by Amelia Raitte
Needles: US 1
Yarn: Lorna's Laces in Baltic Sea colorway
Pattern Notes: There was a time while knitting these socks that I would have sworn they were going to be my favorites. The yarn color is beautiful and the pattern is stunning, but apparently I have no made a huge mistake - AGAIN! I guess I forgot to check the dye lot on these guys, because they're so different they almost look like two different colorways. I can't believe I did this once, let alone twice!

In efforts to avoid this problem in the near future, I've more recently been working with Socks that Rock from the stash since it's all from the same skein. I'll still wear my Giotto socks, but I'm disappointed that they don't really match. Maybe I'll have an actual MATCHING pair of socks to show off later this week.

Previous Title: The Killers, "Indie Rock & Roll"

Man I'll freak you out

2007-01-07T13:06:00.000-05:00

I've officially been tagged by my Dirty Knitter partner-in-crime, Craft Junkie. So, without further ado, I give you 6 weird things about me:

1. I can reach all the way around my head and touch my ear. That is, using my right hand I can reach around my head and touch my right ear. Using my left hand, I can reach around and touch my left ear. Go ahead, try it. Can't do it, can you? Aren't you just a little jealous now?

2. My big toe is the same length as my pinkie finger. I can't explain why I find this intriguing, I just do.

3. I tell my mother everything, but then I get mad at her when she meddles. It seems counter-intuitive, I know, and every time she gets too involved I try to stop telling her everything, but I can't help myself.

4. I am an aggressive driver. I like to honk and I get pissed off easily while driving. I especially get annoyed when people honk at me, which again seems a little unfair given that I enjoy honking at others.

5. I have enormous feet. I wear a size 11 narrow. It's very hard to find shoes that fit comfortably, but this is actually a good thing. I think that if it was easy to find shoes in my size, I might need a second apartment just to hold all of the shoes. I am slightly in love with buying shoes.

6. I find it impossible to buy gifts until the very last minute. It's an annoying habit that I've tried so hard to break but I just can't do it. I might start looking for a Chrismukkah gift (yes, I did in fact google that to check the spelling) in November, but I am absolutely incapable of purchasing anything until December 20th at the earliest. I think I have this paranoia that I'll find something better if I wait just a little longer. Despite this problem, I've been told that I'm an excellent gift-giver. I have no idea how I manage to pull this off.

So there you have it folks, six weird things about me.

Also, I have a little eye candy for you. I finished a project!

Specs:
Pattern: Backyard Leaves scarf by Annie Modesitt, from IK Holiday 2006
Needles: US 7
Yarn: Knit Picks Wool of the Andes in Avocado, 3 skeins
Pattern Notes: This was an entertaining knit. I found it easy to follow the pattern, but it does take a lot of concentration. Every so often I got lost in the chart, but it was fairly simple to find my way back. I found it helpful to highlight every other row to make it easier to keep my place. Also, I blocked it by ironing with the wool setting. It was pretty amazing to watch it grow and flatten out. Blocking it might have been my favorite part! This is a gift for my secret pal, but I really like it and wouldn't mind having one for myself. I guess that's the sign of a really great gift!

Previous title: ACDC, "Back in Black"

I've been too long, I'm glad to be back

2007-01-04T16:24:00.000-05:00

I was looking back in my archives for December and I realized that I only got in three posts over the whole month. I'm going to try to be more consistent in January. But when January comes to an end, please don't remind me that I said that.

You would think that with all of this non-blogging time, I'd have lots of knitting projects to show you. Not quite. It seems that I have been forgetting to take pictures of FOs. Well, here's what I do have to show you:

Those are two pairs of gift socks. Both have been gifted and were well-received. Score!

Specs - socks on the left:
Pattern: Baudelaire from Knitty
Needles: US 1
Yarn: Koigu KPPPM in color P451
Pattern Notes: I can't get enough of this pattern. Cookie is the best!

Specs - socks on the right:
Pattern: Elfine Socks from Amelia Raitte (click on "Fashion for Free")
Needles: US 1
Yarn: Koigu KPPPM in color P538
Pattern Notes: Elfine is another great pattern. Fun to knit AND well-written. One small problem though - it's not your imagination. The sock on the right is indeed more blue while the sock on the left is more yellow. Apparently I forgot to check the dye lot when I bought this yarn. Ah, well, that's the beauty of a hand-knit gift I guess. I'm sure the recipient of these socks won't be too bothered by it.

I also have a second SP9 gift to show off. Look what I found in my mailbox yesterday:

Thanks for the chocolate goodies and the Chibi. I'm always losing my needles, so this will be very handy.

And finally, for any non-knitters still hanging out around these parts, take a look at this little guy:

That's my favorite nephew. Well, my favorite non-human nephew. Also, he's not really my nephew, but somehow I became "Auntie Rachel" when this guy showed up, so I'll just call him my nephew. It's only fair. Please disregard the chest hair peeking out from his jacket. He is apparently going through a John Travolta/Saturday Night Fever phase. Happy Thursday - and happy ALMOST FINALLY Friday!

Previous title: Michael Buble, "Feeling Good"

It's a new dawn, it's a new day . . . and I'm feeling good

2007-01-01T19:28:00.000-05:00

Okay, so a little editing out was needed to keep the title short on this one. Happy 2007 everyone! I'm still here, just been crazy busy as always. I've been finishing up my Harvard application (sent!), my holiday knitting (complete and mostly gifted already!), and visiting friends and family. It's nice to be back home, but I REALLY don't want to go back to work tomorrow. I'm sure that's what everyone's thinking right about now, so I'll try to keep my whining to a minimum. I have some fun FOs to share, but I'm going to save that for later this week. Until then, enjoy playing with all of your new gifts and eating all of those leftover chocolates and cookies and other treats, because you know you're going to, no matter what your New Year's Resolution was about. Happy Holidays!

Previous title: Queen, "Killer Queen"

Insatiable an appetite

2006-12-18T18:15:00.000-05:00

I've been holding out on you. While studying for the GREs, I decided I needed a little treat. You know, a little something just for me since I'd been working so hard all the time. I visited the Blue Moon website and decided to treat myself to a skein of Socks that Rock. Well, there are just so many to choose from. How does one possibly pick from all of those gorgeous colorways? So I figured it would be ok to order two or three. Or maybe just five. Everyone's gotta have socks, right? Check these babies out:

Class Roster (left to right): Puck's Mischief, Nodding Violet, Terra Firma, Chapman Springs, and Love-in-Idleness

Despite this splurge, I've been doing really well at keeping them well hidden from view so I won't be tempted to stray from my holiday gift knitting. It's been about two or three weeks and I haven't taken them out yet, but boy is it tempting! Just a few more things on my list to finish up, and then I'll dive right in. Can't wait!

In other news, some thoughtful person sent me a magazine subscription. Was it you?

So the only thing is, I'm not sure who it's from. I think if it was a friend or a family member, they probably would have asked for delivery to start after the holidays, but it could be. I keep forgetting to ask people when I see them. I'm also thinking it could be from a secret pal. So if it was you, please let me know so I can properly thank you. For know, just know I'm very excited to get a new magazine!

Previous Post: Weird Al Yankovic, "White and Nerdy" - Sorry! It just fit so well!

The pens in my pocket, I must protect 'em

2006-12-08T14:24:00.001-05:00

You'll have to forgive me while I go out and buy a pocket protector, because I think I just put the geek in computer geek.

Translation: I kicked some ETS ass this morning, and Harvard will be lucky to get me. Oh, did I not mention that the school, yes THE SCHOOL, as in THE ONLY SCHOOL, that I'm applying to is Harvard. Why this seemed like a smart idea I can't really even begin to explain, but it seems dreams just might come true.

It seems to be a perfect day. Not only did I ace the GREs, but when I went to my favorite deli for lunch, the owner gave me a free whoopie pie, just because that's the kind of guy he is. Then I got home only to find out there is a brand-spanking new Knitty just waiting to be poured over. Oh yeah, and that JDate guy that I haven't told you about yet, yeah, he sent me another e-mail.

Le sigh . . .

Previous title: The Ramones, "I Wanna Be Sedated"

Twenty-twenty-twenty four hours to go I wanna be sedated

2006-12-07T10:34:00.000-05:00

Wish me luck tomorrow!

Previous title: The Monkees, "Theme from the Monkees"

People say we monkey around

2006-11-29T20:09:00.000-05:00

When Heatherly first posted about the Monkees hat contest for her SP9 group, I thought it was a little silly. With all this gift knitting I'm trying to get through, why would I spend time making a monkey hat? Then I realized I already had made one, and number two was in the works. At any rate and without further ado, I give you the monkey hats:

Specs:
Pattern: Velvet Touch Edge Cap, a free pattern from my LYS
Needles: US 6 DPNs
Yarn: Koigu Kersti in K200 (pink) and K400 (blue and red)
Pattern Notes: Easy peasy. And fun too! That is, all but the pom pom part. I really hate making pom poms. In fact, I think pom poms are kind of an oxymoron. They look so cute and cheery, and even the name "pom pom" sounds like fun, but making them is really anything but. But the hats, now that was fun.

So, two quick knits knocked off the gift list. Now if I could only get through those pairs of socks . . .

Previous Title: The Doobie Brothers, "Black Water"
- To Yarn Coffee: For a long time I thought it was "I'd like to hear that dixie leopard" and I always wondered what a dixie leopard was. Makes a little more sense as "dixieland," but I still have a hard time singing the right lyrics.

Old black water, keep on rollin'

2006-11-20T20:31:00.000-05:00

It seems like I should be studying ALL THE TIME, and it usually feels that way, but there has also been some knitting in my world lately. Mostly gifts, but some other stuff just for me. Since my knitting time has been drastically reduced, that amounts to just a row here and a row there. I managed to get some i-cording and some felting done over the weekend, so that entrelac sleeping bag that Henry the Navigator enjoyed is finally finished up. Here goes:

Specs:
Pattern: Entrelac Suki Bag
Needles: US 7 circular
Yarn: Noro Kureyon in color 156
Pattern Notes: I'm not so impressed with this pattern. I took notes while I knitted, and I actually plan on rewriting the pattern as part of a secret pal gift, so if you have any interest, leave me a comment and I'll be happy to pass it along when I get to it. The issue with the pattern is that when you get to the first rectangle of each round, you have to make some fairly major modifications. If I hadn't done entrelac before, I probably would have given up early on. I do like the finished product for the most part, although I might rethink the round bottom and the i-cord handles. This is a gift, and I just know the person who's going to get it will love it, so I'm not so concerned about these issues for now.

Oh yeah, today's title. This colorway of Noro reminded me of this song every time I picked up the bag to work on it. I think it's because of the way the blue diagonal rectangles look a little like waves. It's less obvious now that it's felted, but the waviness is still there.

Can you tell I've been studying too much? I feel like I can barely put together a sentence. I think I need a real break now, one that doesn't involve reading and writing. Have a happy Thanksgiving!

Previous Title: Rolling Stones, "You Can't Always Get What You Want" - Notice the shift to classic rock lately?

If you try sometimes, you just might find you get what you need

2006-11-13T21:22:00.000-05:00

Sorry for the lame-o depressing post yesterday. Here's a little pick-me-up. Just to clarify, this is a pick-ME-up; you might care less about it, but it makes me VERY much happier than I was yesterday.

I'm going to apply to that program I was talking about! No special favors or anything like that, instead just a high stress level. I just registered to take the GRE on December 8th. Yes, that's right. Just over three weeks from today. So you might hear from me even less than you usually do. Just warning you in advance.

More yarn-y goodness tomorrow . . . maybe. I might be studying instead. Wait and see. But please don't hold your breath.

Previous title: Lou Reed, "Take a Walk on the Wild Side"

Then I guess she had to crash; valium would have helped that bash

2006-11-12T20:27:00.000-05:00

I had a minor meltdown this afternoon after my last post. See, my exciting mysterious thing was that I found this great master's degree program and I was really really excited about it. I've had this idea in my head for a long time of where I want my career to go, and it felt like I finally had found a program that could get me there. After posting, I took a closer look at the application and decided to start in on it.

I discovered that it doesn't look like it's going to work out after all. I guess I know better than to jinx something like that by posting about it before it happens, but here I go doing it again anyway. For various reasons, I'm going to have to ask for some special favors in order to even apply to the program, and the chances of that being ok are pretty much slim to none if I had to guess. Tomorrow I'll call someone in admissions to find out what they think. I'll keep you posted, but I'd be pretty much shocked if anything were to work out. I'll continue to look for other ways to get where I want to be, but this one just seemed so right. I've calmed down a lot now, but it's just disappointing, you know?

Previous title: David Bowie, "Changes"

Ch-ch-ch-ch-changes; turn and face the strange

2006-11-12T13:48:00.000-05:00

Lately I've been thinking about making some changes in my life. I can't really say too much here, because nothing's really settled yet, and we all know about the dangers of telling all out in blogland. But I will say that I'm pretty excited about an opportunity that may present itself this winter.

Change is hard though, you know? It would be so easy to just keep on going the way things have been going, because nothing's really wrong. It's just that I don't think this is the direction I want my life to continue along. I'm a little afraid to get all excited about this new thing because if it doesn't happen, then I'd be really disappointed. On the other hand, if it does happen, that's a little scary too, only because I'd be leaving behind the safety and security of how things are now.

Was that cryptic enough for you?

In lighter news, I've been knitting an awful lot lately. I'll tell you about it someday, but for now my mind's in a million other places. However, here's a sneak peek:

Previous Title: Britney Spears, "Hit Me Baby One More Time" - I know, I'm still a little embarrassed about that one.

Hit me baby one more time

2006-11-08T18:10:00.000-05:00

I know. I'm sorry about the title. Once it got stuck in my head I couldn't get it out.

It does fit very nicely, though. See, today I came home to another knitting package. Talk about good karma!

My secret pal hit the nail on the head with just one try. Check out this colorway - it's Lorna's Laces Pioneer:

The colors are actually pretty true in this photo, but it's so much prettier in person. It's so ridiculously me that I had to double-check that I don't already have it. I am so in love with these colors I can't even tell you. If I could marry sock yarn, I would be spending my weekend shopping for a white dress. Beautiful! Thanks Monkey Monkey, you're the best!

Previous title: John Lennon, "Instant Karma"

Instant karma's gonna get you

2006-11-07T16:20:00.000-05:00

Warning: VERY photo heavy, but still lots of fun, so please wait while it loads.

After being patient for so long on a few swaps that have been going on, it seems it's finally my turn. First my KSKS bag arrives, and now Henry the Navigator has made his appearance.

Henry brought some terrific goodies from Rhonda. Take a peek!

From left to right, that's a cute sock notepad, A Good Yarn (which I have not read yet), "The Famous Salem Frog Spell" (details coming soon), a sock change purse that came with a piece of Dalmation Jasper, a needle/gauge checker thingy, and some tasty treats.

Oh yeah, and there was yarn. That's some Meilenweit Cotton in a fun orangy blue/brown/cream color - it's direct from Holland! And there's also some VIva CIta, just for fun! What's kinda funny is that I just picked up some of this sock yarn in a different colorway - great minds, you know?

But wait! Wasn't there something sticking out of that book? Oh yeah, check it out! A cutie-pie little sock bookmark guy! Wicked cute!

Thanks Rhonda!

I thought about taking Henry on a tour of Boston, but it turns out he's been here before. So, rather than tour the city AGAIN, I figured we'd just relax a little. Henry seemed quite pleased with this idea after his long journey all the way from Salem. To be fair, he has been all over, from Louisianna to Minnesota to Washington state to the UK, and many stops in between.

We sat out on the balcony (despite the slight chill in the air) and shared a bottle of red. We had some lovely chats about politics, given that today is election day after all.

It seems Henry may have had too much to drink.

Eventually, Henry decided he'd had enough, and laid down for a rest on the couch. It turns out that the Noro entrelac bag I've been working on as part of Norovember is the perfect sleeping bag for my new friend.

A good night was had by all. Henry will resume his journey tomorrow. Will he be sending his good karma to you?

Previous title: Ce Ce Peniston, "Finally"

Finally it has happened to me

2006-10-31T17:09:00.000-05:00

Two posts in one day! Can you stand the excitement? Just don't get too used to it, 'mkay?

Last night I met up with Vicki, my KSKS angel, for a little gifting and knitting. We had a blast! Check out the goods:

Isn't that just the cutest bag you ever did see? And don't miss those stitch markers hooked onto the front! But wait, what's inside?

Some yummy yummy Mountain Colors hand-painted yarn in Lodge Grass. I have gifted this yarn before, but I've never been lucky enough to have some of my very own. I can't wait to start knitting it up!

But wait, there's still more!

These are definately a few of my favorite things. From left to right, we have a package of these great little leathery guys that keep your dpns together (never even seen 'em before!), then we have a delicious warm vanilla sugar hand cream from Bath and Body Works, some delicious Truffles from Lindt (how did she know how much I love these?), Cadbury's chocolate, and Skittles. Seriously, I feel so completely and utterly spoiled. Thanks Vicki; you're the best!

Previous title: Men without Hats, "Safety Dance"

You can dance if you want to

2006-10-31T16:59:00.000-05:00

It's my October socks, all finished up! It's also my first homemade Hannukah present of the year; well, at least the first one that will actually be gifted. After all, that multidirectional diagonal scarf was supposed to be a gift, but clearly I am keeping it.

These socks are for my college roommate, Lisa, who loves the song mentioned in this title. It might be the only song that she knows the real words to. Usually, she just makes up her own lyrics as she goes along (like the Beastie Boys classic "No Sleep Till Sunday," instead of "No Sleep Till Brooklyn"). There are other classics in Lisa's repertoire of invented lyrics, but that's all I can come up with for now. I hope she likes her dancing socks!

Specs:
Pattern: Elfine Socks from Amelia Raitte (click on "Fashion for Free")
Needles: US 1
Yarn: Lorna's Laces in Periwinkle
Pattern Notes: I had a blast knitting these guys. They're just so delicate and sweet that I found myself wanting my own pair. The lace pattern is easy to follow but doesn't get repetitive, plus it has that nice in-between row where you just knit straight through - always a bonus. I tried this pattern once before and found it too hard, so maybe it's a little more on the intermediate side? It definately helps to knit it on circular needles. I think it would be way too confusing to try and break up the lace pattern to use dpns.

I tried to take a close up of the pattern, but here's the best I came up with:

Previous title: Guns n' Roses, "Patience" - a very favorite of mine

Just a little patience

2006-10-24T16:29:00.000-04:00

After waiting WAY TOO LONG, I have finally sent along a special thank you to Elizabeth, my SP8. Want to see what she got?

Specs:
Pattern: Another Cleo Clutch
Needles: US 10
Yarn: Cascade 220 in color 8339
Pattern Notes: This pattern is really simple, but somehow the first cleo clutch I made has a cable that changes directions part of the way through, so watch for that. It's a great first cable project if you're looking for one.

Along the theme of patience, I've heard word from the very helpful Bev about my KSKS kit. I was ditched by my first sock kit pal, story unknown. Medical difficulties have made my angel bow out, but my thoughts are with her all the way. Whoever you may be (because it's still a secret to me), I'm sending healthy thoughts your way, Angel Number One. Now I'm on to Angel Number Two. Thanks for stepping in Vicki! As a return of the favor, I thought I'd let you all know that Vicki is collecting yarn for a blanket. Check out her blog to see if you can help.

I'll leave you with a picture of my weekend happenings.

You guessed it, another wedding! This one was the last of the season for me; now I'm off of wedding duty until March. Finally! Not that I don't enjoy them, but really people, enough is enough! If y'all could just hold off on the wedding plans for a short while so I can catch my breath, that would be just great! Thanks a bunch!

Previous Title: Grateful Dead, "Box of Rain"

Maybe you'll find direction around some corner where it's been waiting to meet you

2006-10-16T17:08:00.000-04:00

Lookee lookee! An FO!

Specs:
Pattern: Multidirectional Diagonal Scarf
Needles: US 8
Yarn: Diaketo Diamusee in color 39
Pattern Notes: Easy as pie! Where does that expression come from anyway? I don't think baking a pie is particularly easy . . . At any rate, this pattern is clear and easy to follow. I think maybe I've made one before. Oh no, just remembered I frogged it because I didn't like the yarn combination with the pattern. That yarn is now a lovely booga bag. Hey, at least I reused it.

This scarf was supposed to be my very first holiday gift knitting, but forget that, I'm keeping it. It was moderately chilly here in Boston on Sunday night, so on my way to my first Knitsmiths visit (fun fun!), I decided that I needed to wear the scarf. Now I can't part with it!

I've been holding out on you with another FO, but it's for Elizabeth as a thank you for being my secret pal in round 8. She, and the rest of you, will just have to hold your breath waiting with anticipation to see it. No, actually please don't. I'd rather not be responsible for that mishap.

Previous Title: Pink Floyd, "Wish You Were Here"

How I wish, how I wish you were here

2006-10-11T18:07:00.000-04:00

My very best friend in the world, Kelly, lives in New York. It's hard not living near her, but it was harder today than ever before. She lives in the building that was hit by a plane today. Everyone is fine and noone was in the apartment at the time, but it just makes you stop and think. There's really nothing you can do to avoid an accident like that or to plan for it, obviously, but it really puts life in perspective and makes you realize how much every day counts. I don't think I spend enough time telling people what they mean to me, and I think I spend too much time worrying about things that aren't important. And then things like this happen and it really makes you just take a minute away from it all.

Love you Kelly! And Nick, and Grace, and Carter, and (of course) Van Buren.

Previous Title: The Who, "Who Are You"

Note: I'll be back to knitting content soon, I just couldn't do it today.

Tell me, who are you? 'Cause I really wanna know

2006-10-07T11:12:00.000-04:00

It's fun getting to know new secret pals. I just got my match-up today from Heatherly , who I had the honor of spoiling last round. I can't wait to get started on a new pal! Her blog already has me cracking up, so this should be a blast! I've also already heard from my spoiler, who seems to be a monkey fan too. Should be a great round!

Heatherly has a little contest going to get to know pals. Just answer these five questions , and you're entered. So, here goes!

1. Where is your favorite knitting spot?
My couch, right in front of the tv. I'd take a picture if my apartment wasn't such a wreck right now. There is cleaning scheduled in for this weekend, so maybe I'll add a picture a little later.

2. If you suddenly could never knit again (shudder) - what would you do instead?
The horrors! I don't think I could cope! I guess I would maybe take up spinning, or just fondle yarn and try not to get any drool on it.

3. If you could travel anywhere in the world - where would you go and why?
Paris. It's by far my favorite city. Culture, fashion, art, food, wine, and on and on . . . I've been twice, but the first time I was eight, so that doesn't really count. The second time I was only there for one day, and it rained AND the metro was on strike, so I didn't get to do much. That was almost better though, because nothing beats a leisurely day strolling the streets of Paris.

4. When you were little - What did you want to do "when you grew up?" Are you doing it?
I never really knew what I wanted to do when I grew up. I think I ended up teaching by default. I just couldn't quite figure out what I wanted to do after college, so grad school was the logical choice. Having said that, I do come from a long line of teachers (mom, grandmom, grandfather, great aunt, and those are just the ones I know about) and I did used to make all of my friends play school when they came over. Can you imagine that? Playing school on the weekend?!? Of course, I always got to be the teacher! I'm still not really sure what I want to do when I "grow up." Lately I've been thinking about a career change, but I haven't settled on anything yet.

5. What is your favorite flavor of ice cream?
J.P. Lick's has the most amazing coffee oreo ice cream I've ever tasted! If you've never had it and you're in the Boston area, I command you to go and give it a try. Really, it is the best.

Previous title: Ren and Stimpy, "Happy Happy Joy Joy"

Happy happy joy joy

2006-10-05T16:37:00.000-04:00

Secret Pal 9 is gearing up and ready to go! Can't wait! Here are my answers, oh pal of mine: (If you read that in a Stimpy voice, all nasal-like and with excitement, it kinda sounds like him.)

1. What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with? What fibers do you absolutely *not* like?
I like yarn. Pretty much all yarn. Not a big fan of ACKrylic though. Softer is generally better. While I do knit things besides socks, if you're thinking sock yarn I really love Lorna's Laces, Cherry Tree Hill, and I'm dying for some Socks that Rock.

2. What do you use to store your needles/hooks in?
I made a little needle case, but it's not the greatest.

3. How long have you been knitting & how did you learn? Would you consider your skill level to be beginner, intermediate or advanced?
I guess I've been knitting for around four or five years maybe? I'm definately intermediate at least, and maybe moving on to advanced. The only things I don't do much of are entrelac and fair isle.

4. Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list?
Yup. Check on the sidebar. I update it pretty often, or at least often enough that it's current.

5. What's your favorite scent? (for candles, bath products, etc.)
I'm not really a smelly kind of person. Scents just don't do it for me.

6. Do you have a sweet tooth? Favorite candy?
Ooo, you got me there. Candy is always welcome in my house. I like milk chocolate, but it doesn't mail so well because it does melt sometimes. I also like Skittles, Sprees, and most other sweet things.

7. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do? Do you spin?
If it's a craft, I do it. Or at least have done it. Current favorites include cardmaking, crocheting, and sewing. I don't spin, but I wouldn't mind learning.

8. What kind of music do you like? Can your computer/stereo play MP3s? (if your buddy wants to make you a CD)
Hmm. Do you really want me to answer that? Basically, take a look at my titles. I like Top 40s and alternative usually.

9. What's your favorite color(s)? Any colors you just can't stand?
I generally prefer rich dark colors, like burdandy, maroon, deep purple, navy, dark orange, etc. I'm not really much of a pastel or brights person, but there are always exceptions.

10. What is your family situation? Do you have any pets?
Just me so far. Keep your eyes peeled though, there may one day be a kitty or a puppy in the picture.

11. Do you wear scarves, hats, mittens or ponchos?
I wear scarves all the time and hats sometimes. Not really a poncho person. I don't wear mittens, but only because I don't have any. A pair of mittens would certainly be welcome in my home. Basically, it's Boston and it's going to be cold very very soon.

12. What is/are your favorite item/s to knit?
Lately it's socks, but I'm also really into sweaters. I like knitting things with cables or lacey patterns mostly - keeps life interesting. I'm a huge Debbie Bliss pattern fan these days.

13. What are you knitting right now?
Elfine socks, a multidirectional diagonal scarf, and a few other items . . . I'm getting ready to start on a few booga bags (as gifts) and a Feona sweater (Debbie Bliss alpaca silk book).

14. Do you like to receive handmade gifts?
Are there people out there who would say no to this question?

15. Do you prefer straight or circular needles? Bamboo, aluminum, plastic?
I like circulars the best, especially addi turbos. Given the cost of turbos, I often go for bamboo instead.

16. Do you own a yarn winder and/or swift?
No, but I really would like to. Maybe one day, sigh . . .

17. How old is your oldest UFO?
Hmm. Two years or so maybe?

18. What is your favorite holiday?
Thanksgiving hands down. It's all about family and food - two of my favorite things. I also like Christmas, but mostly because I'm Jewish and my parents have a great big dinner party with friends and family, so it ends up being a lot like Thanksgiving.

19. Is there anything that you collect?
Not so much.

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 like the stuff over at Zephyr Style (patterns and stitch markers). I subscribe to Interweave Knits. Any books are over on the wish list. I don't have a chibi, but I would like one (blue maybe?).

21. Are there any new techniques you'd like to learn?
I'd like to figure out the whole fair-isle thing. Magic loop would be helpful too.

22. Are you a sock knitter? What are your foot measurements?
But of course! My foot is 9 and 3/4 inches from heel to toe - size 11! Around the ball of my foot is 8 inches (I wear a narrow), but I don't usually have a problem fitting into the average size from a pattern width-wise.

23. When is your birthday? (mm/dd) March 31. Mark your calendars; it's my thirtieth!

Previous Title: Guns 'n Roses, "Civil War"

What's so civil about war anyway?

2006-09-28T19:32:00.000-04:00

Sorry, been busy lately. Nope, I didn't fall off the face of the Earth, but I did get killed. And so, without further ado, my obit:

Stashmonkey, 29. Brookline, MA. Stashmonkey was found murdered in a local Starbucks after an evening spent with Stariel (pictured above with sock gun in hand) and friends. She is survived by one sock and the beginning of its mate. At this point, both socks have been completed and are on their way to meeting their feet in Chicago. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to your local yarn store.

Stashmonkey will be buried in her new, rather comfy, socks of doom.

Previous Title: Nirvana, "Come As You Are"

I swear that I don't have a gun

2006-09-20T19:45:00.000-04:00

None needed for this war. However, the arsenal is ready and waiting:

Countdown: Two days.

Needles? Check.
Yarn? Check.
The famous "Stashmonkey Half-Swatch?" Check.

Locked and loaded, awaiting pattern.

Are you ready to rumble?

Previous Title: The Beatles, "Drive My Car"

Yes I'm gonna be a star

2006-09-17T15:16:00.000-04:00

Check out these buttons!

And of course, the sweater they are attached to. Oh my! It's an FO!

Specs:
Pattern: Cabled Coat with Hood from Debbie Bliss Baby Cashmerino, with many modifications
Needles: US 5 circulars
Yarn: Sirdar Snuggly, 4 skeins
Pattern Notes: It felt like I kind of ripped the pattern apart and put it back together, but really it's not that much different from the original. I chose a much different yarn, mostly because it was so much cheaper this way (the whole thing, buttons included, cost around $20). As an added bonus, I was able to follow the pattern for size 3-6 months and end up with a sweater that's more of a 6-12 month size (probably 9-12 to be more exact). I also shortened the whole thing by about 4 inches in length. I really like the original version, but I just can't see a baby hanging out in this really long coat of a sweater. So, even more than the original, I love my version. If you want to make one and you need more specifics about what I changed, leave me a comment and I'm happy to help you out.

Previous title: Tabitha's Secret, "Dear Joan"

I've wanted more from this than anything I've ever known

2006-09-12T16:23:00.000-04:00

Boys may not suck completely, but I'm getting so tired of the whole scene. The Boy called on Saturday, still clueless about when the game was by the way, and we went out Sunday night.

I don't know.

I should like him. He's all of the things I said I wanted: smart, sarcastic and witty, kind, cute but not so cute he knows it, a little chivalrous but not to the point that it's annoying, easy to relate to, . . . but something's just not right these days. Maybe I'm losing interest since it takes so long between dates for us to find a time when we can get together. I can't figure out why I'm not more excited about the whole situation, but it's just not working for me right now. I'll keep trying and he certainly gets a few more chances, but at this point I'm not swooning or jumping up and down ecstatically when he calls. I really wanted this one to last a little longer, for it to be right (at least for a while), but I don't think it's going to.

Thanks for all the kind words and support with my issues last week, by the way.

In other news, here's a wedding picture. No, it's not the happy couple. I don't have a great one of the two of them together, actually. Instead, here's my brother and I dancing together:

Previous Title: Ani DiFranco, "Untouchable Face"

Who am I, that I should be vying for your touch?

2006-09-06T18:33:00.001-04:00

Boys suck.

Don't you think that if you're into someone, you let them know? I'm not saying shouting out how you feel for all the world to hear, and I'm not even saying love because I'm far from there still, but you show them by being interested, by making plans, by remembering the little things that are going on in that person's life?

I'm trying not to be pissed. It's probably just a silly mistake that will blow over by the weekend, but I can't hold back either. The Boy and I made plans to go to a baseball game Saturday night. The first conversation (about two weeks ago) regarding said game went a little like this:

Boy: I haven't been to Fenway in a long time.

Me: Oh! I have tickets for two weekends from now. We should go!

Boy: Sounds like fun. Let's go!

And then the last time we went out, about one week ago, we had this conversation:

Me: So, are we still on for that game next weekend? It's next Saturday night, the ninth, and it's a night game. I think it starts around 7. (Knowing he can get flaky and not wanting to get ditched.)

Boy: Yeah, of course. Didn't we already decide we were going to go to that?

Me: OK, just checking.

And then last night on the phone there was this conversation:

Boy: So how was your weekend?

Me: Great. My brother's wedding went really well (wondering if he remembered that's where I was).

Boy: Glad to hear that. (Discusses other details about wedding with me.) I talked to my brother yesterday and he's decided to come visit for the weekend. I can't wait for him to come! He hasn't been to Boston in a really long time, like years.

Me: Oh. That sounds like fun.

Boy: Yeah, it should be a blast.

Me: I guess we're not going to the game then.

Boy: That was this coming weekend! Oh I feel so bad! I didn't even realize! Are you mad? Can you find someone else to go with you?

Me: (puzzling over what the right answer is) Well, I guess I have to.

And the conversation went on from there, with a noticable chill coming from my end. The thing is, this is not the first time he's been flaky like this, and we've only been on four (or five?) dates now. I'm just thinking, if you're into someone, would you really go forgetting that you had plans like that? I don't want to be the bitch, at least not just yet, but I am upset that it would just slip his mind like that when I've been thinking about it all week. So I tried to play nice and not be too upset on the phone, but now I can't deal. He knows I'm pissed and he feels badly, but come on. We're supposed to go out on Sunday night instead now. I think I'll just let him call and if he forgets or doesn't call for whatever reason, then it's time to move on. I'm done putting in the effort to make fun plans and then have him screw it up.

Maybe today's title should have been "Who are YOU, that I should be vying for your touch," but she didn't write the song that way. Also, while it feels good to say it that way, I'm not sure I'm quite feeling that confident yet.

Wedding pictures and details might be in the next post. I can't deal with looking at happy married couples just now.

Previous title: The Cure, "High"

Smitten as a cat, yeah as kitten as that

2006-08-30T21:31:00.000-04:00

A great end to a great summer. I'm just saying is all . . .

Yesterday I had date #4 with The Boy. I know I haven't shared much about him, but I don't want to jinx anything and I don't want to get too excited about it yet, but things are going well. Plans are in the works for date #5. Yeah, and I'm pretty sure he likes me too, so that's a nice bonus. Yay me!

I also got my last package from my secret pal. I'm very excited about it, but this has been so much fun that it's sad for it to end. Elizabeth has been a great pal, and I love all the stuff she sent me. When things calm down a little around here again, she should watch the mail. I'm just saying is all. Yikes! Just realized I reused the box she sent the goodies in. Elizabeth, want to e-mail me your address? Pretty please? Thanks a bunch! Here's what I got from the best pal around:

Cute packaging, don't you think? And inside those packages:

A neat little blue glass doo-dad (well what would you call it?) with a sheep printed on it, some yummy Trekking yarn, some yummy Cascade Fixation for some fun ankle socks, point protecters in all different sizes for my needles (how did she know I needed these?), and of course some delicious treats! There was chocolate, Skittles, chocolate, maple sugar candies, and did I mention chocolate? Thanks Elizabeth! You're the best!

And that FO I promised you, here goes (sorry, not the best photo - an experiment with the self-timer):

You thought it was going to be something different, didn't you? An Eyelet Chemise or a Baby Hoodie? Nope, fooled you all - hah!

Specs:
Pattern: Shrug from Debbie Bliss Pure Silk, size 32-34
Needles: US 3 and US 6, both circulars
Yarn: Debbie Bliss Pure Silk, color #10
Pattern Notes: The pattern is very Debbie Bliss, meaning it's a puzzle. It was a fun challenge that I really enjoyed. There's something about the way she writes patterns that infuriates some people, but personally I love it. I'm not sure if it's the added excitement about interpretting what she has written or the fact that it makes me feel like I've really accomplished something when it's done, but I love her patterns all the same. One thing that really helped was putting a small sticky note on each of the stitch patterns. See, she gives these two different stitch pattern repeats and they have different numbers of rows. It's a little confusing, but with the sticky-note-system I was able to just move the sticky notes as I went along. There was just no way I would be able to keep track by using row counters since I'd have to remember which row counter went with which stitch pattern. Did that make any sense at all?

The only thing about this shrug is that apparently my gauge was really tight so it's a drop small. I'm hoping it will grow a little the more I wear it. On the plus side of that trauma, I managed to complete it using 5 skeins instead of 6. More yarn store credit! Am I good or what? Below you can see what was left over from 5 skeins. A close call there!

Well, this weekend is my brother's wedding, so I've got to go finish packing now. Details after it's all over.

Previous title: The Clash, "Should I Stay or Should I Go?"

This indecision's bugging me

2006-08-24T14:25:00.000-04:00

It has occurred to me that if I worked on one project at a time, things would get done a lot faster. However, in true stashmonkey fashion, I can't possibly make that kind of commitment. In my defense, I have limited it to two projects rather than the overwhelming list of 14 over there in the UFO list. Go ahead, count. You know you want to. Take your time, I'll wait . . .

So here are the two I've chosen to devote my time to this week. First, there's the Debbie Bliss Cabled Coat with Hood from the Baby Cashmerino book.

As you can see, this little number has gotten the majority of my attention these days. I've finished the back twice now. Yes, twice. Shut up. And both front pieces are done too. Maybe it'll just be a vest, then I can do some finishing and call it done. Not really, but the cables that were once intriguing are now more annoying than anything else. On the plus side, I should have lots of leftover yarn to return since I decided to chop a good four and a half inches off the length. You can see the original version here. Wicked cute, no? But the thing is, while that baby looks adorable, can you really see a kid in a cardigan that long? Me neither.

I've also realized I better get a move on on the IK Eyelet Chemise. Fall is coming fast and I'd like to actually be able to wear this baby. Also, I've got lots of leftovers on this one too and I can only make a return if it's before the end of the month. I think it's pretty safe to say that those two balls you see hanging out above the sweater are going back. In case you can't tell, that's one finished giant main piece (front and back knit together), one finished sleeve (all curled up on the left), and one just-started sleeve.

Next question: What should I get at the yarn store with all of my store credits? Apparently I've been smoking crack while deciding how much yarn to buy. I'll try to kick the habit before I go back.

Previous title: Pearl Jam, "Elderly Woman behind the Counter in a Small Town"

Hello! My god it's been so long, never dreamed you'd return

2006-08-21T17:03:00.000-04:00

What a fun weekend! My college roommate Lisa was in town all weekend and we had a blast together!

She's one of those people that, even though I haven't talked to her in almost a year, we can pick up right where we left off. It's oddly comforting to know there are people in your life who, no matter what, will always understand you. Every so often I wonder if that's it and we've finally moved on and outgrown a friendship that, at times, seemed like it could outlast anything. And then I spend some time with her and I know again that the world will keep on turning and we really will be friends forever. Ok, too cheesy. I'll stop now.

We did many of the traditional Boston things, like walking Newbury Street and eating in the North End, not to mention Mike's Pastries - yum! So all in all, a good time was had. Because of this good time, I have no new knitting to show you. But I will soon. And maybe even something finished by the end of the week? Not so sure about that one. No promises, okay?

Previous Title: Red Hot Chili Peppers, "Aeroplane"

Music is my aeroplane

2006-08-16T19:30:00.000-04:00

Clearly you've noticed by now that music is important to me. I don't play any instruments, and those who know me would run in fear if I threatened to sing. Yet somehow music has crept into my life anyway. I'm really a lyrics kind of person. Sure, there's the occassional instrumental song that'll do it for me (lately it's Medeski, Martin, and Wood's "End of the World Party" for those curious), but generally it's the lyrics that hit home. Thus, the titles on this blog. I spend a good portion of my day listening to music.

With this in mind, you can see why I was devastated today when this happened:

Here you can see my iPod. It is on and playing a song. What's wrong with this picture? Ah, yes, the screen is blank! Here's the deal: it plays music just fine, but the screen is consistently blank. So, basically I'm just guessing when I try to play what I want to listen to. It was kind of a fun challenge at first and maybe slightly interesting to try and figure out how to get to certain playlists or artists, but now it has definately lost the appeal.

I tried going to the Genius Bar at the Apple Store today, but it turns out those geniuses are in high demand! I have to log on to Apple's website at midnight tonight to make an appointment for tomorrow. Some geniuses! You'd think they could figure out that people prefer convenience to this weirdass system. In the meantime, I can't decide what I want the geniuses to tell me. If my iPod can be fixed for a reasonable price, obviously I'll do that and save some cash. However, if it can't, then it would be a great excuse to buy a new one . . .

Oh yeah. For those of you early birds who missed it, I added a few notes to the last post. Go see! Maybe I left one for you!

Previous Title: Jimi Hendrix, "Stone Free"

Tear me loose baby

2006-08-14T21:04:00.000-04:00

"Stone free, do what [we] please!"

Check it out! I was working on my Debbie Bliss silk shrug, but I got to the point where I need to switch to smaller needles. Of course, the smaller needles were already occupied with the IK Eyelet Chemise. I put in some quality time on this baby and managed to get the main piece off the needles. Above are all that remains; well, except for the finished piece, which is below.

So, what would you do next? FInish off the eyelet chemise or the silk shrug (below)?

Faced with this dilemma and cursed with the inability to make a decision, I did what any good knitter would do. That's right, I cast on for something new.

At least it's a somewhat small project . It's a baby sweater for a little one who is due on October. I'll get back to the others soon, but for now I'm enjoying a much needed break from the girlie colors. While starting a new project is definately not going to help cut down my UFO list, I'm working out an incentive for myself. I have a new list on my sidebar (or will in a few minutes) of all of my works in progress. This way I can see everything I'm working on, and erase them as they get done. I think when the list gets down to just two or three, or maybe four, there should be some kind of prize. I haven't figured out yet what it will be, but if you have any suggestions, I'd be happy to hear them.

Edited to add a few quick notes:
- Thanks Secret Pal for the postcard! I hope you enjoyed your vacation!
- Joanne - The baby sweater is the "Cabled Coat with Hood" from the Debbie Bliss Baby Cashmerino book. I'm making some modifications and I'm using Sirdar's Snuggly yarn, because it was less than half the price. I'm happy to give you more details if you want them.
- Colleen (my pal) got her KSKS kit and loved it, although it seems some Oompa Loompas snuck in and ate all of the candy. Heehee! Glad she enjoyed it!
- Andrea asked about the booga bag, so here are some quick details on both that one and the Cleo Clutch. For the booga bag I followed the pattern exactly and used Noro Kureyon in color 90. I think it took a little over two skeins. For the Cleo Clutch I used Lamb's Pride Worsted in Rust. Both were from the stash. See, I can do something right! Even if I don't seem to finish projects, at least I used up some stash yarn!

Previous title: Fall Out Boy, "Sophomore Slump or Comeback of the Year"

It's just a matter of time before we're all found out

2006-08-07T18:21:00.000-04:00

Secret swaps are coming close to an end - isn't it exciting?

Today I finished off and packed up my knit sock kit for She Who Must Not Be Named (well, it is still a secret!). It's all packed up and ready to go out. Here's a sneak peak:

She's getting a booga bag as her "official" sock bag, but I also included the cleo clutch, because she likes to put her socks in whatever bigger bag she's carrying. I figured the clutch could easily slide inside of a bigger bag. I added a metal snap to the inside of the bag, but it's kind of hard to open and close. I'm thinking it'll loosen up as she uses it. There's some delicious candy; the Amelia Raitte sock patterns, and some homemade stitch markers. The stitch markers are in this cute little metal tin that I found at the Container Store. It's decorated on top with a picture that goes along with her blog, but I tried my best to make it blurry so she won't figure out that it's for her if she reads this. Hopefully, that'll all go ok.

I had so much fun wrapping everything up, but then I forgot to take a picture of the final product. Trust me, it was very cute.

Previous Title: Paul Simon, "Call Me Al"

Got a short little span of attention

2006-08-03T18:24:00.000-04:00

For Shelby, because she asked for it, I present the gallery of unfinished objects.

In all fairness, I should warn you that it took quite some time to dig up these bad boys. I feel a little like those oddballs on "Clean Sweep" who can't seem to stop themselves from purchasing weird little knick-knacks until they finally find themselves exposed to the world by the wonder that is TLC. This is a little embarrassing, but here I go. Please be kind.

We begin innocently enough, with just a basic update on that Debbie Bliss Silk Shrug I am so fond of these days.

It's really coming along, don't you think?

Also residing in a place of honor (meaning it hasn't yet been relegated to the "drawer of doom"), is the IK Eyelet Chemise. I got pretty far before abandoning this baby for greener, or hot-pink-ier, pastures. I'll pick it up again someday. Promise.

Hiding in the Drawer of Doom, I discovered Mariah.

I have no excuses here. I think I just got tired of looking at this one. Every so often I think about picking it up again, but I just can't bring myself to. Especially not when there are brightly colored fun yarns that are so much nicer and softer than Paton's Classic Wool.

In keeping with the sweater-style items, we have the IK Union Square Pullover.

This was my first foray into a sweater on size 3 needles, and not the last, I might add. It's done, I guess. All the pieces have been knit. Ignore the fact that it hasn't been sewn together or properly blocked. It's done. Really. It is. Shh. Stop it.

And here is what became of the leftovers:

Ok, so I had to buy the purple to coordinate nicely. This is a knitting needle case that I decided to create. It was more of an excuse to try out this funky stitch pattern from Vogue Knitting: The Ultimate Knitting Book. I like it a lot, but I don't really want to have to line it, and I think that's unavoidable. Unless, of course, I just move on to the next project. Heehee.

I also tried to create a tank top pattern. It was coming along well, when, oh I don't know. I just moved on DAMNIT!

And finally, the piece d'resistance, socks . . . and a mitten.

We have, from left to right:
- Cut Your Teeth Socks in Koigu
- Tropicana Socks in Sunshine Yarns
- IK Rib and Cable socks in Pearl Gems
- Jaywalker Socks in Lorna's Laces
- Plain old stockinette socks in Koigu
- IK Embossed Leaves socks in Cherry Tree Hill - I ran out of yarn
And above, one sad and lonely mitten. It's for the Mitten Challenge 2006.

I'm going to go cry now. Or knit up a storm. Haven't decided which yet.

Previous title: Moody Blues, "Running Out of Love"

Some days you're gonna put me on a pedestal up high

2006-07-31T16:37:00.000-04:00

Miss me?

Sorry it took so long. You thought I was kidding when I said it was hard to get up off the couch! Anyways, here are my new Baudelaire socks. They are so pretty you could put them up on a pedestal. (Ok, so the title's a stretch, but read on and you'll understand. Maybe.)

Specs:
Pattern: Baudelaire from Knitty
Needles: US 2
Yarn: one skein of Cherry Tree Hill yarn in "Moody Blues," hence today's title (I had to search long and hard for it as I don't really listen to the Moody Blues)
Pattern Notes: This one was really fun to knit. The pattern is really well written and easy to follow. I taught myself how to knit on two circulars for this one, plus they are toe-up, which is also new for me. I love the construction of the heel, which is a rounded short row heel with a flap. I also had fun with the sewn bind-off, which I'll definately use again. My only complaint, which is not a pattern complaint, is that I have little or no talent in photographing my own feet. Must work on this one.

And just so you won't think that I really have spent all of the time since my last post just sitting on the couch, check out this next project:

I picked out these great coordinating dishcloths . . .

to be a new home for this mess of needles.

Voila! Here is my new needle case closed:

And here it is open:

Betcha didn't know I could sew! It was really easy, but next time I'll probably head to Joanne's Fabrics rather than use dishcloths. It was a little difficult to work with fabric of this thickness on the sewing machine.

And, what you've all been waiting for, the date update:
- Date number 1 never happened because the loser never called (cross that guy off the list).
- Date number 2 was great: good chemistry, easy to talk to, but I'm not sure I'm attracted to him. Still, he gets another chance.
- Date number 3 was wicked uncomfortable. I may not be the best conversationalist, but he had no ability to hold up his end. I'd ask him questions and he'd constantly answer with one or two words only. There were other weirdnesses that I can't even go into, but trust me, it was not good. Want to hear the strangest thing? The next day he sent me an e-mail saying that he had a lot of fun and I was really easy to talk to. Was he at the same date or what?
- Date number 4 was my favorite. I'm definately attracted to him and I find him really interesting. The only shortcoming is that we don't have THAT much in common, so it was a little hard to keep the conversation flowing. It got better as the evening went on, and I think he'll call.
- Boy number 5 seems to have fallen off the face of the earth, but it's ok because I'm feeling a little overwhelmed with men as it is. Plus, two new guys have begun e-mailing me on JDate. I'm feeling uber-popular these days. Kinda funny how I've been in a dry spell for what feels like forever, and suddenly it's all turned around.

Previous Title: Geri Halliwell, "It's Raining Men"

I feel stormy weather moving in . . . it's raining men

2006-07-26T18:44:00.000-04:00

When it rains, it pours! Somehow I have found more eligible bachelors than you would find on an episode of the dating game. Needless to say, my weekend is pretty booked up. I don't want to say too much and jinx it, but I promise to tell all as the days go by. Most are JDaters and one is a friend of a friend. That's it - you get no more until after I have gone out with them. Not a peep so don't even try.

Now, for the promised vacation update. In no particular order, here are a few things I did this past week:

1. Heehee. Met boys.

2. I went antiquing with mom. I haven't really ever been into antiques, but I have this one really cool art deco glass piece that I got from my grandmother when she moved into a nursing home. This weekend I decided to start acquiring a few other pieces. I saw some really neat stuff, including a purple glass perfume bottle with a metal section on the bottom. Sorry, can't describe it better than that. It was really cool, but in the end, I decided on this collection of seltzer bottles.

Cute, no?

3. I visited the new twins in New York. Sorry, no pics. You'll have to take my word on it. Grace and Carter are the cutest itsy bitsy babies I ever did see. Mama Kelly looks good too, with cute new hair (Hi Kelly!).

4. I got a new hair cut too! I didn't take pictures of that either, but I really like it. I also had it straightened, so now it doesn't frizz quite so much on these hot hot days.

5. I went to a wedding shower for my almost sister-in-law. It was fun, but it was a marathon shower, clocking in at 5 hours. I think that might be a new record.

6. I went to a yarn store in Pennington, NJ. It was my first trip to The Wooly Lamb, but I will definately be back. They were really nice and friendly, and they had a huge selection. I think they have moved down the street and have not yet changed their website, so if you decide to go, you should call them first for the real address. They had a sample from the Debbie Bliss Pure Silk book and they even let me try it on! I was convinced.

Look what followed me home! This isn't a color I normally would choose, but it's the color of the store sample, and it looked great, so mine will be bright pink too. Now that I've been home for a little while, look what I have so far:

Want to guess what it's going to be?

7. I finished a pair of socks. I'm not going to show you them today, because I think they deserve their own song lyrics, don't you?

8. I got back to Boston and found this waiting for me in the mail:

Thank you Secret Pal! She made me a scarf, which I totally love. You can't tell from the picture, but it has a little ruffle detail at the ends. Love it! She also sent a tin of mango sour altoids (yum!) and a really nice note. By the way, Secret Pal, don't worry about the chocolate - I can't imagine it would travel well either.

9. I can't think of a number nine, so I guess that's it. Phew! What a week! Did I mention I met boys?

Yesterday's title: ACDC, "It's a Long Way to the Top (If You Want to Rock 'N Roll)"

Ridin' down the highway

2006-07-25T17:34:00.000-04:00

I'm back in Boston, but tired from all of the driving. I've got lots to tell you about, but it'll have to wait until tomorrow. Hopefully a lot of pictures, too, but only if I can surgically unattach my butt from the couch for long enough to find the camera.

Previous title: Simon and Garfunkel, "America"

Counting the cars on the New Jersey Turnpike

2006-07-19T16:16:00.000-04:00

It's never good when you are surrounded by brake lights and you see a fire truck go by. Despite some trauma on the NJ Turnpike, I managed to survive a five and a half hour drive to my parents' house today, relatively unscathed. I'll be away for about a week, probably not going to be posting much, but you never know. Have a good few days!

Previous title: Artist Unknown (really - I googled it), "I've Been Workin' on the Railroad"

Someone's in the kitchen I know

2006-07-17T18:50:00.000-04:00

But there was no strummin' on the old banjo.

Lookee - I cooked!

Okay, so most people wouldn't call making a salad "cooking," but I haven't done more than dial for take out in quite some time. Well, that's not entirely true. I'm also really good at buying pre-made stuff at Whole Foods. If you want to make a delicious apple walnut salad for yourself, here's what I did:

- one package of pre-washed and chopped lettuce (romaine)
- one package of crushed walnuts
- one package of dried apple slices
- one package of goat cheese

Directions: Mix all in a large bowl. Add raspberry vinaigrette dressing. Enjoy!

I know, it takes a lot of effort. It took me a whopping five minutes to make. I thought about adding chicken, but why push it?

A few other recent updates:

The Moody Blues socks were coming close to an end, but I had a few minor setbacks. You'll have to hold your breath if you're waiting for those.

For Midnight Purls, a fellow Jersey Girl, although I'm really from PA originally: I grew up in Yardley, PA but I went to Chapin for middle school and Princeton Day School for high school.

Oh! "Without a Trace" is on tv right now and tonight's episode has Brain/Brian from "My So-Called Life," aka Pink Shirt Guy from "Felicity" (can you tell I'm really a little too good at Pop Culture Trivia?). Sorry, I have to go watch now.

Previous Title: The Go-Gos, "Vacation"

Vacation all I ever wanted

2006-07-13T17:24:00.000-04:00

Shelby, my SP8 Hostess with the Most-est has asked for a response to a few questions, just for fun. They're kind of vacation-themed, hence the title.

1) What is your favorite season of the year?
I like Fall because Massachusetts is so pretty when the leaves change, and Spring because of the anticipation, but Summer's by far the best. I don't work during much of the summer so I get to relax and snooze and knit and do other fun stuff.

2) Where is your favorite vacation spot?
I think I'm going to go to Paris in April with my mom. Paris is one of my all-time favorite cities because of the culture - there's so much art, fashion, and just generally interesting stuff going on in Paris. I also like Italy for the same reasons.

3) If you could visit any place in the world, where would it be?
Paris and Italy, obviously, but I'd also like to go to Australia and Greece. I've never been to either one and I've heard rave reviews.

4) If you could pick any job, and be paid well, what would it be?
I'd like to own/run a knitting store. Is this even a question you need to ask?

5) If you were going on vacation for 1 week, and had to take ONLY one project with you, what would it be?
Yikes! Too many to choose from! Maybe a pair of socks with an interesting pattern. Or a scarf with an interesting pattern. Something that would hold my interest but not be too involved. I'd like to be able to pick it up for short periods of time and not lose my place in the pattern, but I'd also like something that won't bore me or feel like work.

6) If you won a shopping spree to your favorite Yarn shop, what would you get?
Sign me up! I'm thinking I'd go for a swift and yarn winder, oodles of sock yarn (Koigu and Lorna's Laces), and some ArtYarns of any variety. I've never made anything using their yarns, but each one is prettier than the next. As long as it's a shopping spree, I might as well go all out: it would also be fun to pick up a variety of colors of Cascade 220 for felting projects, and of course anything Noro.

I guess that's all. Excuse me while I go drool over the idea of a shopping spree to a yarn store . . .

Previous title: Guns 'n Roses, "November Rain"

Everybody needs some time on their own

2006-07-11T19:54:00.000-04:00

Today was a day to be spent all by myself. In a good way, I mean. I relaxed, did a little housecleaning, laundry, and of course, started a new pair of socks. You knew it was coming soon, didn't you?

Check out the needles. Yup, this baby is my very first venture into the world of socks on circular needles. It's a nice place. I think I'll stay. I also taught myself how to go toe-up for these, which is a good thing. The yarn is Cherry Tree Hill in Moody Blues. I always end up a little short with this yarn, but it's yummy so I can't seem to resist it. I figure with toe-up socks, I can just stop when I get close to the end of the skein. The pattern is Baudelaire , from Knitty.

They are really going fast!

In other news, I did some felting today. I figured as long as I was doing laundry, I might as well throw in some projects. May I present the Cleo Clutch and a Booga Bag.

ThatÂs about all the news for now, given that I only left the house today when absolutely necessary.

Oh yeah, I added some stuff in the sidebar - take a look. I updated my FOs list and added an Amazon wish list.

Yesterday's title: Maroon 5, "She Will Be Loved"

It’s not always rainbows and butterflies; it’s compromise that moves us along

2006-07-10T18:02:00.000-04:00

. . . but today it's rainbows and butterflies. I spent the day at the pool. A little humid, but all in all a deliciously sunny afternoon with a bit of a breeze.

Then I came home and got ready to go run some errands. Important stuff, you know, like Starbucks and Trader Joes. Can't possibly be skipped. I put on my summer uniform of jeans and a black tank top, then added a Sox hat 'cause I didn't really want to wash my hair. I looked in the mirror before I left, and was fully satisfied. I'm not sure if it's a thing that comes with age, or if it's the tan or the fact that I've been working hard at the gym, but lately I've been increasingly happier with what I see in the mirror. I think as a kid I always thought 29 was so old and for sure I'd be over the hill by then (hee hee, you know how anything above eighteen seems REALLY old when you're little?). Well, I think I'm growing into myself maybe. Or something. Now my cheeks are blushing. Moving right along.

I've got a few finished knitting things to show you, mostly bags that might hold socks. Wonder why, hmmm? They both need felting though, so I'll hold off on showing you some pictures. I also finally finished one Tropicana sock and am getting going on the second one. I'm fighting hard to avoid Second Sock Syndrome, but I'm so tired of these socks already.

Last night I took a break from socks to make some stitch markers. Cute, no?

When they're finished, they'll be shipped off to secret pals. Of course, I'll have to make a new set for myself too. I ran out of supplies halfway through the second set, and I haven't added the rings to the tops yet. Looks like another trip to the craft store. That's ok though, because I'm also thinking about making this, and I'll need to pick up a few things. I need another bag like I need a hole in the head, but I can't help myself. Chances are it'll take a while for me to get going on it anyway. Unless of course it rains tomorrow and I can't go to the pool.

Previous title: Dave Matthews Band, "So Much to Say" (for all in-between titles too)

So much to say, so much to say, so much to say, so much to say

2006-07-07T16:44:00.000-04:00

A post with multiple titles, the first of which is up above.

Phew! It's been over a week since my last post - sorry about that! Can't believe so much time has passed! In my defense, I've been pretty busy lately. I've been working, believe it or not (given that I teach and it's summer). I've been helping to write a new social studies curriculum for third grade for the district. I know, fascinating, right? For me it's been pretty interesting to see what goes into that, but I won't bore you with the details. I think it's enough to say that I've spent five of the last ten days staring at a computer screen for hours.

I bought myself some presents from Amazon. They took forever, but they are finally here. I've made myself a deal though, no new projects until I finish at least two of the projects I have going right now. So temporarily I'm just drooling over these. I've pawed through them all quite a few times already, but haven't started anything just yet.

Little feet little hands little feet little hands little baby

Kelly had the babies! She's the one with twins, who got the Debbie Bliss baby cashmerino blankies. Well, one of those blankies is technically still in my possession, but she'll get it soon. Maybe the babies are small enough to share for a little while? I'll see her soon, so the jealous baby will get his or hers soon enough (I'm not sure which baby got which blanket color combo). Carter Joseph, Grace Kelly, and mom, dad, and the dog are all doing great. Although the dog's probably looking for some extra love. Can't wait to meet the little ones!

I find sometimes it's easy to be myself; sometimes I find it's better to be somebody else

Not that I'm being somebody else these days, but just that sometimes I'm happy just being me, and other times it's hard thinking about the things I want in life and the things I don't yet have in my sights. I spent much of the weekend in New York at a wedding. After that, I went to the Jersey Shore to celebrate the fourth with my brother and his fiance. We had a blast together, but every so often it just nags at me that all of these people are just beginning their lives together, and that I'm not quite there yet. Don't worry about me though, it's not really on the forefront of my mind all of the time. I wasn't even really going to mention it, but when I listened to this song again, I couldn't skip over this part of it.

Talk about the weather

On to brighter news. Hope you're all enjoying the sunshiney weather today! Looks like we're in for a few pool/beach days this weekend and into next week.

Did you ever see a song fit so perfectly with a post like this?

Previous title: Kenny Rogers, "The Gambler"

You got to know when to hold 'em, know when to fold 'em

2006-06-27T18:45:00.000-04:00

Yesterday was an interesting day. I went to the Sox game, a make-up from Sunday's rained out game. On Sunday I will admit I was a little bummed, since it didn't actually rain much after 2 or 3, and it was a 2:00 game. A delay would have probably made more sense. At any rate, Monday ended up being gorgeous, so now I'm okay with the decision. Plus it was the first weekday where I didn't have to go to work, so this was a nice way to celebrate that.

It ended up being a great game. It was a little boring at first, with nothing on the board until the bottom of the sixth, but that's where it really took off. I won't give you the play-by-play. If you're that interested, you've probably heard/seen it already. But it ended in the twelfth inning at 8-7 Sox. Really fun and exciting game. Way to go boys! So the "know when to hold 'em" part of this post is about knowing when to stick it out until the end rather than getting frustrated and leaving early, like many fans did. And like I considered doing. I'm really glad I stayed.

Then there's the "know when to fold 'em" part. I had a first date. 'Nuff said? Maybe not. It wasn't horrible, but the conversation was a little stiff and hard to maintain. I was really looking forward to meeting this guy, so it was a little disappointing. Ah, well, you never know unless you give it a shot. At one point we were talking about the Al Gore movie, "An Inconvenient Truth." He said he doesn't really believe that global warming is happening or that it's a problem. Seriously? I'm thinking there will be no second date.

Want to hear about some knitting stuff?

I keep meaning to show off this fun bag I got from my secret pal. Isn't it the cutest?

Check out what's hiding inside of it:

It's not your imagination, the Tropicana socks have changed colors! I finally gave up on trying to make them using my Lorna's Laces watercolors yarn. Instead, it's "Girls Night Out" from Sunshine Yarns that I showed you in the last post. It definately works better in this yarn since now the socks aren't too big AND there's no weird pooling going on. I'm not totally in love with them, but I think I'm just tired of the pink already. What do you think?

And look what else I made! It's not from the Mason-Dixon book, but it was kind of inspired by it in terms of the yarn choice. I was thinking about using this as my sock pal bag, or a gift for my secret pal, but I'm not sure yet. I may need to keep it for myself. I think most likely though, it will go to my secret pal, filled with some handy knitting goodies.

Specs:
Pattern: "GIve It a Whirl Bag" by Amy Polcyn, from Creative Knitting July 2006
Needles: US 7 dpns
Yarn: Sugar 'n Cream in color 19181, variegated blues
Pattern Notes: The pattern is really easy to follow and was a wicked fast knit. I only used dpns because my circular needles in size 7 were too long. The bag is knit from the top down. At the bottom, the decreases are done with a row of knit stitches between decrease rows. After about half of the decrease rows, I eliminated the knitted row in between. It just seemed like I'd end up with a bottom that didn't sit very flat, but I didn't try it so I couldn't swear to that.

Working with bigger needles was a nice break. I think I'll continue that break by starting on a Cleo Clutch. Size 10s here we come! Yay!

Previous title: The Verve Pipe, "Colorful"

The show is over close the storybook

2006-06-22T17:18:00.000-04:00

School's out for summer! Today was the last day - hooray! I still have to go back tomorrow for some cleaning up and a faculty meeting, but that's ok, it'll still be pretty relaxed and low-key. I really enjoyed my class this year. I got a little choked up a few times today. I know they will visit all the time, but it's hard to let them go. It's funny how the kids that were the most challenging are often the ones you really want to hold on to at the end of the year. Or maybe it's because the one I'm thinking of has a knitting mommy . . .

I got some terrific prezzies, but I'm just going to share the knitting ones for now. Maybe some other day I could be persuaded to tell about the others too.

That mom I was talking about wrote me the nicest note and then handed me two packages. Then she said, "You have to open them right now." A woman after my own heart.

As she put it, "We knitters have to stick together." Sounds like a plan to me, especially if it leads to goodies like these. I've been wanting this book for a while. I can't wait to read through it! The washcloth is really cute too!

After school and a fun lunch out with the teachers, it was off to the yarn store of course! No better way to celebrate the ending of school! Dani from Knitting Sunshine was holding some yarny yumminess for me.

Here we have "Girls Night Out" on the left and "Dragonfly" on the right. What patterns to choose . . . Suggestions are welcome!

Oh, and for Midnight Purls, I have looked at the Elfine pattern. They are really cute socks! I tried them once, but it was right after the baby blankets were finished, and they really bothered my wrist, so I frogged them. I'm thinking maybe I'll try again with "Girls Night Out."

Previous Title: Aretha Franklin, "Respect" - Yeah, like you didn't already know that!

Sock it to me, sock it to me, sock it to me, sock it to me!

2006-06-19T16:30:00.000-04:00

You knew it was coming one day, right? Sorry, lacking creativity today on account of the fact that summer has finally arrived in Boston. Not just summer, actually, but heat that we don't usually see even on the hottest days of August. It's ok though, I think the worst of it is over. There's nothing like it being 95 degrees outside and needing to take the kids out there to cool off. Yeah, I repeat: third floor classroom on the sunny side of the building.

Now back to the point of today's post. My questionnaire for the Knit Sock Kit Swap.

What are your favorite colors? I generally like darker colors, like deep reds and purples. However, I'm really not that picky. I prefer to stay away from pastels, primaries, and really bright stuff. Okay, maybe that is kinda picky.

Are you a new sock knitter? How long have you been knitting socks? I've been knitting socks for at least a year I think. I'm definately not new. The only problems I run into these days are things like size issues.

Do you prefer solid or multicolored yarn? I like both, but I'm not a fan of the kind that does some self-striping with checker boards, like Regia.

What fibers do you prefer in sock yarn? Generally I go for wool, something superwash.

Where do you usually knit socks? On my coach in front of the tv, but also on airplanes and at Starbucks.

How do you usually carry/store small projects? In ziploc bags, or in bigger knitting bags (like a French Market bag).

What are your favorite sock knitting patterns? I really liked pomatomus, and anything like that. I enjoy patterns that have a little challenge to them - something to keep me interested.

What are your favorite sock knitting techniques? Nothing in particular comes to mind.

What new techniques would you like to try? Knitting two socks on two circulars.

Do you prefer circulars or dpns for sock knitting? I've been using dpns, but I want to start learning how to use circulars for socks.

What are some of your favorite yarns? Lorna's Laces and Koigu are the ones I use most of the time. I'd really like to try Socks that Rock, but haven't yet.

What yarn do you totally covet? Socks that Rock? Koigu?

Any pattern you would love to make if money and time were no object? Again, nothing comes to mind. Sorry! Well, actually, maybe some version of the Butterfly jacket from Noro, but I'm thinking this question is about socks.

Favorite kind of needles (brand, materials, straights or circs, etc)? Generally I use anything bamboo. I like circs, straights, and dpns - so basically, all styles. I haven't tried those new sock circulars that stretch out as you go along. Sounds like an interesting concept.

If you were a specific kind of yarn, which brand and kind of yarn would you be? Good question! Probably Socks that Rock, but maybe something from Artyarns. Oh, wait, Debbie Bliss Baby Cashmerino!

Do you have a favorite candy or mail-able snack? Chocolate is good. Milk chocolate especially. M&Ms, 3 Musketeers, etc.

What’s your favorite animal? I love cats. And monkeys of course.

Do you have pets? What are their species/names/ages? I have no pets.

If you were a color what color would you be? Purple. Don't know why, just seemed like the right answer.

Describe your favorite shirt (yours or someone else’s): It's a swirly kind of pattern in different shades of brown. It has a v-neck. Right at the v the fabric is gathered and there is a beaded patch that is mostly golds and greens, but in a completely not tacky kind of way. There is also some subtle beading up the side seams.

What is your most inspiring image, flower, or object in nature? Maybe an orchid? Not so sure.

Tell me the best quote you’ve ever heard or read. There are so many words of wisdom! How can I possibly be expected to decide? I guess it's, "Don't dream it, be it." It's from Rocky Horror Picture Show.

Do you have a wishlist? No, but keep checking back because I've been thinking about getting one. Top of my list would be "Knitting on the Road."

Anything else you’d like to share with the group today? I don't think so. Can you tell I'm a little indecisive?

---

In other news, I've just discovered this. What a great way to use up the stash! I'm totally in. Any other takers?

Also, I got another giftee that I'm assuming is from my secret pal. Pictures coming soon!

Yesterday's title: Joan Jett, "I Hate Myself For Loving You"

I hate myself for loving you

2006-06-18T20:20:00.000-04:00

No folks, it's not your imagination. The socks are getting shorter! I promise I'm not knitting backward, and it's no bizarre new way to work the pattern, it just is what it is. Here's the full story:

There once was a beautiful princess.

You knew I'd make myself a beautiful princess one day, right?

She was getting a little bored in the land of the Eyelet Chemise, seeing as how she didn't really understand the language and all.

What's a chemise anyway?

So she decided to venture back into Sock Land for a short vacation. At first, things were just fine. Peachy, even. Things were going along swimmingly.

Pun intended. Check out those River Rapids (new picture on the last entry).

She managed to knit a whole river of socks, and a rapid one at that, without even getting her feet wet. After that, there was no stopping the beautiful princess. She continued on to the tropical jungles, otherwise known as the Jungle of Tropicana. She felt quite comfortable around the animals, the monkeys in particular.

Heehee. Get it? Stash Monkey?

And then the unthinkable happened! The jungle was overwhelmingly large! It just seemed way too big for her. It seems the Wicked Witch-frog has resized the jungle socks overnight. So the princess did what she must, and frogged the whole sock. Undaunted, she cast on with smaller needles. Sadly, she forgot that it was only the jungle that needed reknitting, not the ribbed pathway leading up to it.

Ribbit! Ribbit!

The sock was frogged again. This time, the princess recreated the ribbed path on size 2 needles, then took out her smaller needles as she returned to the jungle. The pointy sticks went round and round, fighting off the evil Witch-frog. While the princess thought she was defeating all enemies, she found that suddenly, before her very eyes, there appeared pools of color.

This is no rain forest! The socks were frogged a third time. Let's hear it,

Ribbit! Ribbit!

And so the trials of the princess and her jungle socks continued. They were ripped yet again after an attempt was made to alternate skeins. This one was a bloody battle.

Not literally, but the princess was seeing RED at this point.

The jungle was slowly and steadily returned to its natural state. Back to the original attempt, despite knowledge of the curse of the oversized Jungle of Tropicana.

Moral of the story: Hey, bigger socks are better than none at all!

I just have to have some Tropicana socks, so what if they're a little roomy? I give up already!

Previous title: Three Dog Night, "Joy to the World"

Joy to the fishes in the deep blue sea

2006-06-14T17:34:00.000-04:00

So maybe I'm not as speedy as I promised, but you didn't think you could actually rely on that, did you? At long last:

Do you like those fishes in the deep blue sea?

Specs:
Pattern: River Rapid Socks by Sockbug
Needles: US 2
Yarn: Atlantis from Sunshine Yarns
Pattern Notes: The pattern is well written and includes both a chart and line-by-line directions, for those of us out there who follow written directions better. I didn't make any changes to the pattern, but the socks are a little wide for me. If I decide to knit another pair for myself, I'll use size 1 needles, or cut out one of the purl stitches in between the designs (there are 2).

Upon finishing, I immediately felt myself in sock withdrawal. Weird, considering that before this pair I thought I needed a break from socks. I'm thinking it's just because these have a fun pattern that's not really mindless, but not so hard to follow. With this in mind, I have started a new pair.

They are, or will be, Tropicana socks in Lorna's Laces Watercolors. I hate socks with no ribbing at the top, so I've added a small section of ribbing. They're already a little wide (noticing a pattern here?), but I'm thinking I'll just keep going because I really like them. Also, I don't think I'll survive socks on size 1 for a while.

Also, I have new TV shows in the midst of rerun central. The first isn't really new, but I haven't seen it before. "Without a Trace" - it's like Law and Order but I haven't seen them all. The idea is that every episode someone goes missing and the detectives set out to find him or her. The other one I like is called "Saved." I didn't think it would be very good, but I watched the premiere Monday night (TNT at 10) and it was pretty good. It's possible that my taste is jaded by the lack of newness on television these days.

And, finally, the countdown has reached: SIX! Only six more school days left for the kiddos!

Previous Title: Good Charlotte, "The Anthem"

Don't wanna be just like you

2006-06-12T17:55:00.000-04:00

Ever think you're being clever and at least somewhat original, only to find out someone else is doing it too? I was playing around on the web today and stumbled across this. What's funny is that I used to read this blog, but haven't in a really long time, like a year or more. I'm sure she didn't used to have song lyric titles, but maybe I'm wrong. I checked the archives just now, and it doesn't look like it's every day, just often. Oh well, so much for creativity.

This kind of reminds me of that movie "Garden State," when Natalie Portman talks about feeling the need to do something totally original and unique, then she makes this weird noise and moves all funny, just because noone else has ever done exactly that at exactly that place before. Interesting, but a little off. The movie was on this weekend, but it's also a favorite.

In other news, . . .
- I may have a date this week! Details to follow as they unfold.
- I signed up for a new knit-along; check the sidebar. It sounds like fun!
- This coming weekend is a summer holiday weekend, which means another wedding event! I don't think I've mentioned it, but every summer holiday weekend with the exception of Memorial Day is occupied by some wedding event. This one is a wedding shower for a childhood friend.
- Last weekend, though not a holiday weekend, was also occupied by a wedding event. A bachelorette party! Definately more fun than a wedding shower.
- I should have an FO to show off tomorrow - whaddaya think? Socks or eyelet chemise?

That's all for now. Sorry about the list; I'm just not feeling particularly prosaic today. Yes, I did have to look up "prosaic." Best I can tell, it's the word I want, meaning "consisting or characteristic of prose."

Until tomorrow!

Previous Title: Stevie Wonder, "Superstition"

Very superstitious, the devil's on his way

2006-06-06T16:57:00.000-04:00

Some 6/6/06 tidbits, if you haven't heard enough of them yet:

- Slayer is beginning their Unholy Alliance Tour - Do people really listen to Slayer still? Maybe the world is really in trouble if there are actually Slayer fans around.

- The odds of the world ending today are apparently 100,000-to-1 - Someone really thought about that one?

- The sum of all of the numbers on a roulette wheel is 666 - Gambling is clearly evil!

- Hell, Michigan is having quite the celebration today - Sounds like fun!

- Many expectant mothers are doing their best to avoid giving birth today - Can you blame them?

In a quick Google search, here is my favorite find:
Still scared about the date 666? Jack Horkheimer of the Miami Space Transit Planetarium has a piece of advice: "If it really spooks you, you can stand on your head and it'll be 999."

Enough of that, I'm already bored of it. Now back to your regularly scheduled blogging.

I've been holding out on you a little. I've been knitting and not sharing for a few days now. Here's the grand reveal, although nothing's finished yet so don't get too excited.

Some River Rapids socks. Well, really one River Rapid and one little Pond Rapid, soon to become a River Rapid.

I've also been knitting away on the Eyelet Chemise from the current Interweave. I'm using GGH Scarlett, and I guess I'm about 2/7ths of the way through since I've used 2 out of 7 balls of yarn. Can you tell we're studying fractions this week in third grade?

And speaking of third grade, one of my sweetie-pies brought me flowers again! It's actually the third time now. How cute! I gave the vase back to her father this morning, and he returned it in the afternoon with a refill. They are beautiful!

Do you think I should tell her that I've already finished the report cards?

Previous Title: Santana featuring Rob Thomas, "Smooth"

Man it's a hot one; like seven inches from the midday sun

2006-06-01T16:41:00.000-04:00

Maybe it's time to get a fan . . .

If I haven't already told you, I teach twenty-two nine year-olds. On the third floor. On the sunny side of the building. With no air conditioning. It was 89 degrees today. It must have been 99 degrees in my classroom.

I've been home for an hour now, soaking in the AC and sucking up a mocha frappucino, and I swear I'm still sweating. And yes that was me just telling you the other day about how great summer is in Boston and how much I love it when the sun comes out. Stop laughing. Stop! It's not funny.

I love the summer and I love the sunshine, but it's really hot up there on the third floor on the sunny side with no air conditioning and way too many kids. I'll survive, but I reserve the right to complain. And don't think I won't complain tomorrow when it's cold and rainy and more like 65 degrees.

No knitting pictures today; it's just too hot!

Yesterday's title: Damien Rice, "The Blower's Daughter"

I can't take my eyes off of you

2006-05-31T17:39:00.000-04:00

As promised, another FO.

Specs:
Pattern: Entrelac Shawl from Debbie Bliss Baby Cashmerino
Needles: US 3
Yarn: Debbie Bliss baby cashmerino - I made two blankets and it took 8 balls of each color, but it takes about 1 and 1/2 for the edge and about 6 for the center. I can't find the labels, so I don't know the color numbers. On my screen the next picture, a close-up, shows the colors better.
Pattern Notes: I hope you can tell from the title of this post how in love I am with this blankie. The pattern is a little complicated, but the directions are fairly clear. Have a little faith, trust in Debbie Bliss, and everything will turn out just fine. Below is a close-up of the stitch pattern, which involves an awful lot of seed stitch, with quite a few cables interspersed throughout.

This is half of a baby gift for my closest friend's twins. The other blanket has already been gifted, and is the exact opposite of this one in that the colors are reversed. One day I'll try to get a photo of the two blankets together. For now, you'll just have to imagine what a great pair they make.

Yesterday's Title: Ben Lee, "Catch My Disease (That's The Way I Like It)"

The winter is long in the city and that's the way I like it

2006-05-30T16:53:00.000-04:00

Don't get me wrong, I love summer, not to mention spring and fall. But see the thing is, when your winter seems to last for nine months, you appreciate the sunshine just that much more. Lately, we've been appreciating it, and appreciating it, and appreciating it. Yay!

I spent a lot of time outside this past L-L-L-O-O-O-N-N-N-G-G- weekend, just soaking up the sun. I went to see the boys take on Tampa Bay. While not a terribly impressive game (Sunday), it was nice to finally get to Fenway. We had great seats near Pesky's Pole, but the only pictures I got of the game unfortunately involved Trot Nixon picking his butt. I will decline to post those. You're welcome, Trot.

Then on Monday, I spent the day cooling off at the pool - such a tough life, I know.

What about Saturday, you ask? What did I spend my time doing? Remember those FOs I was talking about? Well, I have TWO to show off! Don't mind me, I seem to be all about the capital letters today. Don't know why.

Anyways, where was I? Oh, the FOs, the FOs!

Specs:
Pattern: Trellis Scarf by Evelyn A. Clark, from IK Spring 2006
Needles: US 5
Yarn: 1 skein Misti Alpaca Lace, color 3140 (also known as pink)
Pattern Notes: The pattern was fairly easy with the one exception being the crazy "knit 7 into 5" stitches. I can't even describe how hard those were. I used a size 1 dpn to help get those done. I love this scarf and I would absolutely make it again. It's a great gift, and an inexpensive knit. The only thing holding me back from starting on scarf #2 is I'm just not sure it's my style.

Here's a close-up of the stitch pattern:

I promised more than one FO, but I've decided to spread the joy. So number 2 will have to wait until my next post. I will, however, promise to post tomorrow rather than a week from now.

In final knitting news, all this finishing has left an opening for a new project. I stopped by my LYS this afternoon and got some help from the lovely Johanna. I've decided on this

made from this.

I can't wait to get started!

Previous Title: Pearl Jam, "Life Wasted" - The concert was unbelievable, by the way. They always outdo themselves.

Darkness comes in waves; tell me, why invite it to stay?

2006-05-24T16:32:00.000-04:00

'nuff said?

Previous title: Foo Fighters, "DOA"

Oh you know I did it; it's over and I feel fine

2006-05-22T17:28:00.000-04:00

Thanks for bearing with me yesterday! Maybe it's not the best idea to write a post after a four-day (and counting) fight with mom, half a bottle of wine, and a Nine Inch Nails indulgence, but I really needed to let all of that out. I'm feeling much better today.

I've taken up running and I'm really enjoying it. It's a great outlet for some of my frustrations after a long school day spent with 22 kids who are just counting the days until summer. Twenty-two days, if you're wondering. I even bought new sneakers at Marathon Sports, where they do a gait analysis. Turns out I need lots of support, but I think you've all figured that out all ready. The difference is that the sneaker guy was talking about arch support . . .

Anyways, I've really been enjoying the extra time spent outdoors. I'm beginning to be able to run for longer stretches of time, and maybe in a few days I'll be able to run for the whole time. I am starting to feel a little sore though, but it's the good kind, where you know it's healthy and your muscles needed the exercise.

In knitting news, I have a few projects that are wicked close to being FOs, so look forward to that in the next few days. Meantime, I'll try not to have any more emotional outbursts for a little while, but sometimes they sneak out anyway. Madness, I tell you.

Oh, Secret Pal, please don't think that since I'm feeling better today I don't need chocolate. I always appreciate some yummy chocolatey goodness!

Yesterday's title: Nine Inch Nails, "Terrible Lie"
Mentioned in post: The All American Rejects: "Move Along"

My head is filled with disease . . . I want so much to believe

2006-05-21T19:10:00.000-04:00

This one's a doozy, so if you're just here for the knitting, "Move along, move along." Trust me on this one. Really, it's just for me because I have to get this out, but read it if you want. Just don't say I didn't warn you.

Last chance to bail out.

I swear I'm going to lose it here.

If you're still reading you must be a glutton for punishment.

Ok, here goes, all my issues served up raw on a plate:

I want to be complete. I want to feel loved and wanted and needed and all of that mushy stuff. I keep holding on, knowing one day my prince will come, but the clock is ticking. And it's been ticking for a while now. As much as I might protest, I really want to begin a family of my own. I want the white wedding and the two kids and the great big backyard for all the neighborhood barbecues. Everyone else in my life is getting there, so what about me?

I guess I had that chance with my last real boyfriend. He would've given me all of it. But he just wasn't the one. At the time, hey, no big deal because I've got time and all. But now, five or so years have passed, and I'm not always so sure it was the right move. I probably could have put up with all of his idiosyncrasies that drove me nuts, and not in such a good way. I'd be barefoot and pregnant by now, probably a few times over. But deep down I know that isn't right either. How much does a girl need to put up with to get the things she really wants?

Truth be told, I want the reality, and not just the facade. That's what's been holding me back all of this time. It has to be just right: the timing, the guy, and everything else. Is there a point where you just give up and hold on to the one you think you can live with even if love's not there? I don't have any prospects per say on this front either, but I'm a good enough person, I could meet someone like this. Even if sparks don't fly, maybe it's time to admit defeat and accept someone that I could grow to love.

Some part of me is completely unwilling to do this, to settle. I guess I'm a true romantic at heart. But seriously, I'm reaching that point where I will soon just decide to be the scary cat lady that all the neighborhood kids are afraid of, the one in all the Stephen King movies. I think I'm afraid to share too much of myself with another person, for fear of rejection. Maybe this blog entry is just the "safe" way of telling the world how terrified I am of exposing myself. Whatever it means, I'm glad to get these feelings off my chest and I hope anyone who's reading this can forgive me for unloading this anger/pain.

I know he's out there, but if he could just hurry up already. I don't know how much longer I can hold out waiting for "the one." So if you're still reading and you know anyone who you think might be the one for me . . .

While it seems a bit anticlamactic, I still feel the need to update:
Previous Title: Crosby, Stills, Nash, & Young, "Teach Your Children"

Just look at them and sigh and know they love you

2006-05-16T17:04:00.000-04:00

Today we had our Teacher Appreciation Lunch at school. Let's just say I'm feeling very appreciated:

These roses were a centerpiece. When the lunch was over, one of the parents of my students brought them up to my classroom. How thoughtful!

I promised a weekend update, so here goes: I flew to Philadelphia to visit my parents. We celebrated Mother's Day and had a bridal shower for my future sister-in-law.

I may not have mentioned it yet, but besides knitting, I like to make cards. Here are some Mother's Day cards I made:

The wedding shower pictures aren't the greatest, so I'll keep those to myself for now.

Given the weather lately, I spent quite a bit of time in the airport this weekend. That was a little disappointing, but it does make for some speedy knitting.

Speedy knitting is all about your perspective. It's a lacy scarf, so it takes some time, but I did get 4 pattern repeats done, which is something like 64 rows. I think it's pretty impressive anyway. It's apparently about 25% done, but it seems short to me. I know it will stretch, but I have a feeling I'll end up doing some extra rounds to lengthen it anway.

Sorry if this post is a little disjointed. I feel like I have a million things going on right now, but I wanted to share the weekend pictures. Not to mention the pretty flowers!

Yesterday's Title: Jane Siberry, "It Can't Rain All the TIme" - great lyrics in that song - You might notice I went back and tweaked the title to yesterday's post. It needed fixing - oops!

It won't rain all the time; the sky won't fall forever

2006-05-15T17:28:00.000-04:00

I was feeling pretty bummed today when I saw yet another day of rain. That makes something like eight days straight. I'm getting really tired of the frizzy hair and the raincoat, not to mention dealing with 22 kids who haven't been outside in forever. On the way home from school, I decided I needed a little pick-me-up. Where better to go than the local Starbucks? A few minutes later, and I'm feeling much better.

Starbucks is always better with a little extra umpff.

So I was feeling a little happier, but still dismayed about another day of rain, given tomorrow's forecast. Then I checked the mail and now I am completely over my rainy day funk. I have the coolest secret pal ever!

Up close, that's:

A signed copy of "Knitting Rules" by Stephanie Pearl-McPhee and two skeins of yummy alpaca in a color called Blackberry Rose. Doesn't it just sound delicious? I can't wait to decide what these will become!

There's also this wicked cool lantern from Pier 1, along with extra tea lights for it. It looks great on my side table.

Finally, there was a really sweet note. She also sent me an e-card. I can't believe she's so together that she's already sent out the first package, and managed to time it to arrive exactly on the first day of the swap! Impressive! Random Knitter, you rock!

I wanted to tell you about the weekend wedding shower, mother's day, and airport delays, but that'll have to wait until tomorrow. I think I've held you hostage long enough with all my exciting SP8 news!

Previous title: Fall Out Boy, "Sugar, We're Going Down"

Sugar, we're going down swinging

2006-05-11T18:29:00.000-04:00

Remember this?

Yeah, it grew a few repeats, but then on Tuesday night we had a terrible fight. In my rage, I ripped back the whole thing. Well, I tried to just pull a few rounds and reknit them, but I still wasn't happy with it. Then I tried a second time. On the third try, I just gave up. I have since started over and am much happier with it. It pretty much looks the same as in the picture above, but a little longer. It seems that the "bane of my existence" stitch isn't really a k7tog, but a k7 into 5 stitch. It's really quite horrifying, but knit loosely enough on the row before, and it's not quite as painful. I'm much happier with the scarf now and hope to make some quick progress. Or at least as quick as lace knitting can be.

I'm heading out of town for mother's day, but when I come back I'll try to keep up on the regular posting. It's conference time, then report card time, then crunch to the end of the year time. It's always something, I know. Happy thought - 29 days of school left until summer vacation!

Previous title: Rocky Horror Picture Show, "Sweet Transvestite"

I see you shiver with antici . . . pation

2006-05-07T10:58:00.000-04:00

My socks have arrived! I absolutely love them and they fit beautifully. I guess I forgot to tell my sock pal what colors I like, but I'm glad because these are gorgeous. They are a color I would never have picked myself but it just might become a new favorite. Amy really outdid herself.

Here's what came in the mail yesterday:

And here are the socks on my feet:

They even came with a fun notepad and paperweight. Amy included the extra yarn from the project and I've already got some idea of what I might do with it. I have this yarn I bought at the Bazaar Bazaar from Woolarina. I've been trying to figure out what kind of socks it wants to be and we may have a winner! I'm thinking I'll try another pair of plain stockinette, but with the fun coral-y color as the trim. I hope there's enough of the coral, but I'm thinking I'm going to try my hand at Kool-Aid dying anyway, so maybe I'll make some of my own if there's not enough.

The Woolarina yarn didn't photograph so well, but there is a little bit of the coral in it, so I think it'll be really nice together.

In other news . . . I went to Starbucks today for my morning coffee. Turns out they were out of coffee. Seriously? STARBUCKS? OUT OF COFFEE? I sh** you not. OK, so it only took about 5 minutes for them to finish brewing the new pot, but c'mon, your biggest product is coffee and you're going to let it run out? Something's just not right here. They are temporarily forgiven, but I'm keeping my on them.

Yesterday's title: J. Fred Coots and Haven Gillespie, "Santa Claus is Coming to Town" - I had to check wikipedia for the artist on that one.

Edited to add: If you are Amy and you are reading this, thanks for the socks! I tried to leave you a comment to let you know I get them, but I had a really hard time trying to get an MSN passport account. I will try again later.

You better not cry

2006-05-06T17:15:00.000-04:00

Guess who came to town today . . . and it's not Santa Claus. Here's a mighty big hint:

That's right, Augusten Burroughs! He's only my very favorite author on the planet. If you haven't read him before, be sure to check him out. His books are somewhat disturbing in that most of his writings are memoirs, and he's had a _______ life. I can't decide how to fill in that blank - astounding? remarkable? upsetting? interesting? fascinating? No adjective that I can think of really fits the bill.

At any rate, his books always remind me that laughter is the best medicine and that sometimes you need to laugh to keep from crying. He signed two books for me because I couldn't decide which one to give him, Running with Scissors or the new one, Possible Side Effects. We made some small talk, but I will admit I was a bit star-struck and couldn't quite get the words out. He was very personable though, and when I left he called out, "Keep on teaching!" It kinda made me smile and giggle a little. Heehee.

Sorry for the bad picture. I took three and, believe it or not, this is the best one. He wasn't constipated as far as I know, it's just the picture. The other two came out blurry. BTW, check out the wicked cool fringe on that suede jacket. I am so jealous and I have to have one just like it. The search begins!

To explain the title of this post, he's working on a new book called You Better Not Cry. It's a collection of short stories about his Christmas experiences.

In other news, I've started some new socks. I've been trying to decide what to do with all this purple Koigu for some time.

I started a few socks and pulled them out. I think this pair will stick. Just some plain old stockinette with a fun pale purple trim. I think because I like the variegation in the yarn so much, I was really feeling uncomfortable with a pattern stitch. This shows it off much better.

My pomatomus socks arrived at Jessimuhka's and not only does she love them, but they also fit her perfectly! I'm so glad. I can't wait to get my socks and see what my secret sock buddy has been working on.

Lastly, last night was quite a celebration! I had one to many margaritas to share this one with you then, so instead I'm going to wish you a happy Seis de Mayo. Enjoy!

Previous Title: Maroon 5, "Secret"

Everyone has a secret, but can they keep it (for my secret pal)

2006-05-03T18:25:00.000-04:00

1. What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with? What fibers do you absolutely *not* like?
I love Lorna's Laces, Koigu, Debbie Bliss. Anything that's soft, basically. I really dislike novelty yarn and acrylic.

2. What do you use to store your needles/hooks in?
I store my needles in plastic bags. I've started to make two different needle cases, but never finished them. Maybe one day . . .

3. How long have you been knitting? Would you consider your skill level to be beginner, intermediate or advanced?
I've been knitting for around four years now, completely self-taught from a book I bought at AC Moore. I'm thinking I'm intermediate/advanced since I do a lot of cables and funky stitches and I rarely have a problem following a pattern. I don't do much improvising though, so that's why maybe I'm intermediate.

4. Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list?
No, but keep checking back because maybe I'll create one soon. If I do, I'll be sure to put a link on the sidebar.

5. What's your favorite scent? (for candles, bath products etc.)
I don't have a very strong sense of smell, so I'm not really into candles and bath products. I guess if I had to pick a favorite, I'd say vanilla, but nothing too heavy either.

6. Do you have a sweet tooth? Favorite candy?
Do I have a sweet tooth? Is that a joke? Candy is among the world's greatest treasures. I'm a big fan of chocolate, more milk chocolate than dark chocolate. I also like some random candy like Atomic Fireballs and Sprees. Oh, and Skittles . . . pretty much anything sweet.

7. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do? Do you spin?
I don't spin, but maybe I'll try one day. Card-making is fun. I crochet, but I can never find patterns I like so I don't do it often. Embroidery sounds interesting but I haven't tried it yet.

8. What kind of music do you like? Can your computer/stereo play MP3s? (if your buddy wants to make you a CD)
Pretty much you can look at my post titles to get a sense of music I like. Generally alternative and top 40s. Lately my favorites are The Killers, Pearl Jam, the Gray's Anatomy soundtrack, music from the OC. I can play MP3s.

9. What's your favorite color? Or--do you have a color family/season/palette you prefer? Any colors you just can't stand?
My favorite color is green, any shade. I like jewel tones best. I don't usually choose pastels or bright colors, but every so often it's fun to try something different.

10. What is your family situation? Do you have any pets?
I live by myself - single, no kids. I have no pets. Just me and the yarn.

11. Do you wear scarves, hats, mittens or ponchos?
I wear scarves and I'm on a quest to find the perfect hat and the perfect mittens, but I haven't quite settled on anything yet. I'm thinking the perfect hat is a solid color but the perfect mittens I don't really know. Fair isle?

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

13. What are you knitting right now?
Do you want a list? I'm finishing a baby blanket for a friend, a few socks that are missing mates, a lacy scarf, a sweater that needs sewing together, and a needle case that will one day be done. There are usually socks on the needles, but I just finished a pair.

14. Do you like to receive handmade gifts?
Who doesn't?

15. Do you prefer straight or circular needles? Bamboo, aluminum, plastic?
I like both straight and circular needles depending on the project. Maybe I slightly prefer circulars. I like bamboo needles, but aluminum is ok too. Those gray rubbery ones are good, but I can't stand plastic.

16. Do you own a yarn winder and/or swift?
No, but I would love to have both one day!

17. How did you learn to knit?
I taught myself from one of those "I Taught Myself Knitting!" books that I bought at AC Moore.

18. How old is your oldest UFO?
Mabe a year?

19. What is your favorite holiday?
I like Thanksgiving because it's all about family. Also I like St. Patty's Day because, well, I live in Boston and it's kind of a drinking thing . . .

20. Is there anything that you collect?
You mean besides sock yarn? Not really.

21. Any books, yarns, needles or patterns out there you are dying to get your hands on? What knitting magazine subscriptions do you have?
I have "Creative Knitting" that was a gift. I really want a subscription to "Interweave." I've been eyeing "One Skein," "Knitting on the Road," "Mason-Dixon Knitting." Also any of the Yarn Harlot books, especially the latest one, "Knitting Rules." Maybe a stitch guide?

22. Are there any new techniques you'd like to learn?
I'd like to learn to knit socks using the magic loop technique. I haven't done much entrelac or fair isle, but I'd like to learn more.

23. Are you a sock knitter? What are your foot measurements?
I love knitting socks. My foot is 9 and 3/4 inches from heel to toe. Around the ball of my foot is 8 inches, but I don't usually have a problem fitting into the average size from a pattern width-wise.

24. When is your birthday? (mm/dd)
My birthday's March 31.

I can't wait to start SP8!

Yesterday's Title: Pearl Jam, "Ocean"

Hold on to the thread, the currents will shift

2006-05-02T17:44:00.000-04:00

As I keep up my positive post-vacation attitude on just about everything, it occurs to me that life is what you make it. Okay, we all knew that already. But really, it's a rainy gray day and I've been so cheerful - it's eerie and weird and I like it.

Here's what's keeping the smile on my face today:

- The new Pearl Jam album just came out - How can anyone not love Eddie? Can you say sexy?

- I mailed my socks today - I had so much fun making them and I'm so excited for my pal to get them. I think I could be satisfied making socks for others and getting none in return . . . but that doesn't mean I won't accept my socks when they come. Hands off people!

- I'm knitting with Debbie Bliss Baby Cashmerino - It's soooooo soft and scrumptious! Remember that baby blanket I showed off almost a month ago? It's finally time to work on the border. I'll post it again when the border's done. No sense showing an old picture.

- I got a comment on my blog - My very first one! Yay! Emma is the best!

- SP8 is getting ready start! - Tomorrow I'll post my questionnaire for my secret pal. But I'll have to think long and hard for some song lyrics that go with a questionnaire . . .

With all that excitement in life, who can help smiling?

Yesterday's title: Queen, "We Are the Champions"

I've had my share of sand kicked in my face, but I've come through

2006-05-01T18:53:00.000-04:00

It was getting down to the wire, but the socks are done and ready to be sent out tomorrow. Two little pomatomi, all ready for their trip to a very special someone.

Here they are in all their glory! BTW, I totally love them and will likely make a pair for myself some day soon.

Specs:
Pattern: Pomatomus from Knitty
Needles: US 2, but my sock pal has wider feet than I do, and I'll probably use US 1 for my pair
Yarn: 2 skeins Koigu KPM 185
Pattern Notes: The pattern wasn't too hard to follow once I got the hang of it, but it does require a decent amount of concentration. Given the fact that I tried to watch a few episodes of 24 while working on this pattern, today's title is very appropriate for these socks. I only did 2 pattern repeats on the leg. If I had done three, there is no way I would have had enough yarn. It's possible going down a needle size will help with the yarn shortage.

Ready to be shipped:

I dig the label. Thanks Alison!

Saturday's title: Liz Phair, "Rock Me"

Oh baby you're young but that's okay, what's give or take nine years anway?

2006-04-29T10:01:00.000-04:00

It's fun to spend a night being hit on by younger guys!

Yesterday I got home from work and was completely exhausted. I really didn't think I was going to make it anywhere, but was convinced to go to dinner and a movie. After that my friend and I decided to stop by this house party for "just a drink." Three hours later, we were still there.

It was thrown by this couple I know but not well. They always have great parties, but the weirdest people show up. This time, in addition to the posse of 22 year old cute boys (okay, so it's not 9 years, but that's how the song goes!) who laughed at all my corny and sarcastic jokes, there were these two random guys from MIT. No joke, they looked like they stepped out of an 80s movie, a cross between Real Genius and Sixteen Candles. One was wearing jeans, a white t-shirt, and a heavy wool blazer. The other had on a pair of brown cords and a turquoise plaid shirt tucked-in. I wish I had a picture, because even I can tell that description isn't doing it justice. Picture John Cusak and his dorky friends from 16 Candles. It was weird, but the look seemed to work for them.

What's possibly weirder is that they just met the day before and plaid guy invited blazer guy to the party - two people who have never met before with the exact same bizarre fashion sense? Will wonders never cease?

Previous title: Coldplay, "Talk"

Do you feel like a puzzle, you can't find your missing piece?

2006-04-25T20:13:00.000-04:00

It seems like everyone I know is either married or engaged these days. I can think of nine friends and/or coworkers who have gotten engaged in the last few months, and that's without even really trying. There are probably a few I've forgotten. Needless to say, it seems like everyone around me is talking about weddings. I'm still being my cheerful post-vacation self, but all this wedding talk is starting to get to me. I'd like a second or third date at least!

Let's see, the men I've gone out with lately . . .
- There was the guy who gave me Hello Kitty gifts on our first date, which happened to be the first night of Hanukkah (I'm not in middle school!).
- Then there was the neighbor who kept stopping by and then later referring to said drop-ins as dates. We went out once and he swore it was the fourth date! Also, he suspiciously had very little furniture in his apartment.
- There was the guy with the hair slicked back with so much grease it looked like it might drip down the back of his shirt. Eew!
- Don't forget the one who insisted we go Dutch, then proceeded to order an extra desert to take home and eat the next day.
- There was also the guy who showed up for the first date in shorts and flip-flops, and it's not like we were going anywhere where this type of outfit would be expected. First rule of first dates: Dress to impress.

There are more, but it's getting depressing, so I'm going to stop now. One more rant: what's with the 4:00 on a Saturday date? I can understand not wanting to commit to dinner, dating can likely get expensive if you're usually the one paying, but really? Meet me for drinks, not for a strange "let's take a two hour walk and see if we want to continue getting to know each other" date.

OK. Now it's time to cheer up with a fun vacation picture. Here's me (in the middle) with my brother and his fiancee, Courtney.

And of course, one of my mom's cats. This is Zelda. I don't get to rubby her too much since she lives outside of Philadelphia, but we get in some good loving when I'm visiting the folks. She has a sister Daisy, who is equally adorable, but who I didn't get a photo of this time.

Granted, not the best picture, but I'm sure there will be more in the future.

Yesterday's title: Dashboard Confessionals, "Carry This Picture" - Did I stump you?

Color the coast with your smile; it's the most genuine thing that I've ever seen

2006-04-24T20:27:00.000-04:00

I will admit that I'm a little sad to be back from vacation, but I am so much more relaxed now, and so much more myself. I was definitely teetering on the edge of crazy there for a while. It's good to be back off of that cliff. We had awesome weather every day; if anything, there was a heat wave in Florida while we were there. The gray clouds encircling Boston make it hard to look outside, but nothing can shake my smile today. I'm sure it won't last forever, but I'll definitely enjoy it while I've got it.

I'm planning on telling more about the vacation in the days to come. Possibly even some sunshiney photos. Yes, sunshiney is a word. Mostly because I said so.

In knitting news, the first pomotamus sock is getting there. I finished the third repeat on the leg, but decided to pull it out because it made the sock a little long and my sock buddy wants socks on the shorter side. Now I'm getting close to the end of the heel and I'm pretty optimistic about finishing the pair soon. Can't wait!

PS - The spellchecker came up with "sunshiny." I guess I didn't really invent the word, just spelled it wrong.

Previous title: Guster, "Great Escape"

Into the car baby bleed the gas; fast is fast never turning back

2006-04-12T17:26:00.000-04:00

Vacation starts tomorrow! Yay! One more day of work and then I'm off for a week plus one day - six school days with no school! Wahoo! Tomorrow I'm off to visit the family in Philly, then from there we're all going together to Florida (mom, dad, brother, and brother's fiancee). I just got back from the pre-vacation mani/pedi and now I'm off to start packing. I'm thinking this is it until I get back. Check you later! Wish me sunshine and lollipops weather!

Yesterday's title: The Standells, "Dirty Water" - please pretend you never heard the Bronson Arroyo version; trust me, you'll feel better that way

I love that dirty water; oh, Boston you're my home

2006-04-11T18:31:00.000-04:00

Happy opening day! The boys did very well for themselves today, even if they are lacking some of the old fan faves this year. Looks like Ortiz will take over that role.

Yesterday's title: ACDC, "Big Balls"

All the social papers say I've got the biggest balls of all

2006-04-10T23:20:00.000-04:00

Are you intrigued yet?
Every time I leave my LYS, I feel like I've forgotten something. Care to guess what it is?

Yeah, about that ball winder. It does seem to make life easier. This weekend I suddenly felt surrounded by hand-wound balls of yarn. On the plus side, it means I'm actually using the yarn I buy instead of just buying more. I think I wound 4 skeins into balls this past week and I only bought one new skein, so that's pretty good I guess.

Here's a little hint at what I've been working on with some of that yarn:

It's a pomatomus! A question for you: when there are two, will they be pomatomi? Saying pomatomi might be even more fun than saying pomatomus. Try it out loud. Don't you agree? While I love this sock, it is a gift for my sockapaloooza pal. I might have to make another pair in this color just for me. As long as I remember to wind the yarn before leaving the store.

Before I go for the day, I just wanted to mention my happiness at the quest to be bathing-suit ready by the end of the week. I don't know what was up with me on Friday, but I'm much more content now. All day today my pants were feeling kind of uncomfortable, mostly because they are now getting to be too big. Very exciting stuff! Could have something to do with the ridiculous amounts of walking/running I did this weekend - I'm guestimating upwards of 10 miles when you add Saturday's and Sunday's mileage together. Yay!

Saturday's title: The Killers, "Somebody Told Me"

It's not confidential, I've got potential

2006-04-08T11:55:00.000-04:00

Well folks, looks like it's official and I'm here to stay. I'm really enjoying blogging, and this is the third date. You know what that means.

Anyways, it still is confidential (nobody knows about this place but me), but only temporarily. I'm dying to join Secret Pal 8, and I think today is the day. I guess that means I have to give up a little privacy, but I think part of the point of this is to let people in to my private world. You know, because it's so fascinating and all that clearly other people will want to read every word I write. Sarcasm aside, there's something a little scary and exciting about letting people in to your life. I'm going to try not to censor myself too much, but sometimes I think, Do I really want to tell the world about that? We'll just have to wait and see how it goes.

I promise more knitting content soon.

Yesterday's title: Audioslave, "To Be Yourself"

To be yourself is all that you can do

2006-04-07T18:38:00.001-04:00

Less than one week until vacation in sunny Florida! I absolutely cannot wait, except that today I considered trying on bathing suits, and let me tell you it was a scary sight. Turns out that all those times I said, "I'll go to the gym tomorrow. It can't hurt if I just take today off." Well, I think it just might have hurt. I'm a little bummed, to say the least. I've decided to ignore these feelings, and drown them up with a little Audioslave. Therefore:

Don't lose any sleep tonight
I'm sure everything will end up alright
You may win or lose
But to be yourself is all that you can do

But just in case, there are still 5 gym days left before I have to face the facts. Wish me luck!

Yesterday's title: Beastie Boys, "Brass Monkey"

That funky monkey . . .

2006-04-06T17:57:00.000-04:00

I've finally gone and done it! I've been busily lurking around other's blogs and now I've finally committed to one myself. Don't be surprised if I'm a sporadic poster, at least at first. Leave me comments and you'll be sure to inspire me to keep on keeping on. For now, here are some pictures of what I'm working on - you know, in case your curious. 'Cause this is going to be a knitting blog and all, did I mention . . . So here's some knitting content for all y'all:

Here is the Dread Purple Sock. Forgive the capital letters. In my head it sort of sounded like the Dread Pirate Roberts. Not so much once I typed, but hey, it's already out there now. This sock has made me cry, or rather wince in pain. It made me a sad stash monkey given that it hurt my wrists and I had to take some knitting time off. Maybe going down to a size 1 wasn't the best idea after all . . . Might try again on size 2. At any rate it's the River Rapid sock from Sockbug. I just learned how to link, so I'm sorry if that doesn't work.

Of course, it could have been this baby blanket that caused the knitting injury. Think this blanket times two - can you believe a friend had the nerve to get pregnant with twins? It's ok, I love her anyway :) I forgot to photograph the first blanket, and this one's not quite done. It's still missing the border. More details then. Oh yeah, it's the entrelac shawl from the Debbie Bliss Baby Cashmerino book.

On to projects that make me smile more. Here is the Trellis Scarf from Interweave Spring 06. Love it! Want to keep it! Must gift it, but might make another just for me. Get the picture on how much I love it?

Another Interweave project, Fall 05. It's the Rib and Cable socks. Love these too. They are all mine!

That's it for today. How'd I do for a first post? I'll try to be a little less cheese-ball next time around.