Black Purl Casts On

2008-09-24T17:18:00.000-07:00

I won't even begin to try and excuse my lack of blogging. What I will say is I am FINALLY ready to get back to all of my neglected WIPS and back to the wonderful world of knitting bloggers.

I have been working on the shawl that will NEVER end. This was supposed to be a project that would take me ( w/ a new baby) just a few months. Instead, it has taken me FOREVER.....

I am longing to pick up another project but, I am really trying to be disciplined.....so instead, I-do-NOTHING. Something is wrong here....hubby is deployed and I had grand dreams of late night knitting, while watching all of the chick flick movies that I wanted......hmmmm and then, I woke up.........

Speaking of which (all of my military knitters) any of you have sleep issues while your spouse is deployed/tdy. I CAN NOT SLEEP. Which is not the best thing when you've got an infant and two school age children that are home schooled.

Hopefully I will get some pics of the shawl (Kiri) up soon. I am hoping that blogging will help me find my mojo.

2007-08-06T13:58:00.000-07:00

Sockapalooza socks - DONE!!
I finished them last week. I was delayed in blocking them and sending them because I came down with a pretty bad cold. Note to self : Must get flu shot. The downside of being pregnant is that when you catch a bug it seems there is no relief. There are so few meds you can take....
Anyhow, I hope my pal enjoys her package. I FINALLY made it today to the post office.
I REALLY enjoyed the two circ method it did seem to go a bit quicker than what I usually do with the dpns and the addis.....I LOVE THEM! I am itching to start a new pair but figure I should at least knit one thing for the baby. I just cannot decide on a pattern........ Maybe a trip to a yarn store will inspire me. Until then I just might get started on these cashmere socks.

2007-07-25T06:43:00.000-07:00

I'm Back! After a LONG pregnancy induced hiatus, I am FINALLY feeling somewhat like what used to be my old self.
Not long after I posted last, the morning sickness I was experiencing became all day/all night long sickness. All that with a hubby who was way off in the middle of the desert somewhere...needless to say it was a LONG and HARD deployment. Thankfully, I have a GREAT community of AF/Army spouses who stepped in and helped with caring for the boys and preparing meals......
I was able to go home and my family was AWESOME. Generally, when DH leaves we (I) kind of go into survival mode and take one day at a time and stay SUPER SUPER busy this time however had to be the hardest and lonliest. However, we made it through and I am happy to say that DH is back (has been for about a month) and things are SLOWLY but surely returning back to normal.
I am about 20 weeks and we just found out that we are having..........ANOTHER BOY!!!! Yes, that's right 3 boys and yes, we are totally sure that we saw what we needed to see ( little man was spread eagle during the whole u/s).
Now onto knitting news....... Well as you can imagine, I didn't knit a single stitch during the whole first trimester but, I had already planned my sockapalooza socks. I bought some Black Pearl cashmere (2 yummy skeins in blue topaz and Polynesian) from kpixie and was planning to make these. Then, I received and updated e-mail (after I bought the yarn and pattern) on my pals preferences which stated superwash only......... I debated for awhile about just going ahead and knitting up the cashmere because ...well, it is cashmere but then decided it would probably be better to keep within her preferences. So I dove into my sock stash and chose some Cherry Tree Hill supersock. I've just been knitting some plain vanilla socks on 2 circs and feel a bit guilty about that. However, I have never knit socks on two circs so I am totally thrilled about learning something new. By the way I love it......no more searching for that other dpn I dropped somewhere in the sofa.
I have been looking for something fun to knit for the new baby and have come up with this from knitty. I was so excited about all of the colors and the affordability of the yarn until I realized, that the yarn is not machine washable. I am not sure I want to knit a baby blanket w/a hand wash wool. I've been debating and dreaming about this blanket I think it would be just perfect for the baby. Anyone have any ideas?
Sorry for the super long post I promise the next one will be much shorter. I figured after such a long break from blogging I could ramble a bit longer that my norm.
Next post....completed socks!!!!!

2007-04-30T12:26:00.000-07:00

Wow! I cannot believe that It's been so long since my last post. We have had some very busy times around here lately.
Dh has left for the middle -east and so I have been trying to keep myself and the little ones busy.
I have of course been knitting (socks....that's all I seem to do anymore) however, I plan to start knitting itty bitty baby things very soon. Yes, you've guessed it. This black purl is expecting another little pearl of her own.
We are extremely excited and terribly sick around these parts lately. As soon as we find out the gender of the baby I'll really get moving on some cute baby things. Until then, maybe a hat or two or three........
I hope to post pictures in the next few days when I get a bit more time (Nana is coming to town so I am SURE I'll get a few moments uninterrupted).

2007-03-14T17:19:00.000-07:00

I cannot believe that it's been over a month since my last post. We have been super busy and as usual our family has been struck with yet another virus.
There is so much I need to blog about. First off, I have this AMAZING brother who is not only a talented musician but, a just great all around good guy. He's smart, funny, (no, make that HILARIOUS) and one of the most compassionate guys I know...and he's SINGLE..anyone interested....... (NOTE: the Fit Chick and I are known for being just a bit opinionated about who our little brother dates...much to his frustration I am sure). Anyhow, He and his group NoVa Infinite have just been featured on a compilation CD that will be out in just a few weeks. These guys are good...(bringing back the hip hop we all used to love) you can pick up your copy here. Check them out they're some hard working guys who have a positive message!
On the knitting front, I have FINALLY finished sock #1 for my pal. I plan to finish the next one in a few days. I really liked the pattern. The jury is still out as far as the yarn is concerned. I used knitpicks Gloss. Has anyone else used this yarn?
I also received my socret-pals final reveal package. The package came the day after the "bug" entered our home and of course all things knitterly pulled me out of my funk for a brief moment!
Anyhow, big THANKS to Lindsay over at Ms Lindz. The socks are absolutely beautiful and purple ( the picture does not do them justice). They are now my absolute FAVORITE pair of hand knitted socks. Lindsay also sent me this book. I have been waiting to buy this book and I have already picked out a few projects to start whenever things slow down a bit here.
Soon I will have PLENTY of time to knit (I think). DH is leaving soon for the Mideast and I will have plenty of late night knitting to keep my mind occupied. It will be interesting to see how many of those unfinished objects I can actually complete:)

2007-01-30T13:44:00.001-08:00

Thanks for all of the kind and encouraging comments from the last post.
This post will be picture heavy........
I wanted to first say a big huge thanks to my sockret pal who sent me some wonderful gifties. I received some beautiful butterfly handmade stitch markers (perfect for my sock needles), two balls of fixation (from cascade yarns), of course there was CHOCOLATE and some yummy smelling mango lotion. Thanks again to my pal who has spoiled me with such GREAT gifts!!!!
I was hoping that by now, I would have finished my embossed leaves socks but, sadly I admit I have NOT picked them up once since my last post. I REALLY need to get them done........
I have been working on a scarf for an older family friend (really she is like family) and I went with * GASP* an acrylic yarn (I can hardly believe it myself). The jury is still out as to whether or not I like it but I guess it's okay. I REALLY like the pattern. It's easy to memorize after only a few rows........
Quick question to all of you who have knitted a clapotis.......any yarn suggestions or anything I should know about the pattern before the fit chick and I jump into knitting one for our grandmother......

2007-01-22T09:15:00.000-08:00

I thought that maybe I should post SOMETHING on my blog but really, I had nothing (nothing knitting related anyhow) but, I have been working on my Socret pal's socks. I decided to go with IK Embossed leaves pattern. I think I like the way it is turning out. I am not to sure that I like the twisted spiral rib. The lace pattern is pretty easy to memorize. I have been knitting and thinking why haven't I done more lace. I have been admiring the Rona shawl that so many people have been knitting lately.
WARNING: Below is a longish *rant*..............
I am desperately trying to set up some boundaries w/ this whole Chaplains wife thing........So much of my day is used up be other people..while I don't mind helping people I just cannot be so "accessible" to them. I cannot tell you how many times I have an "unexpected" visitor during the week...people who want to just drop by and then, there are the countless calls to "watch" someone's child. (To which I ALWAYS say yes to because I cannot say No) I usually don't mind but, with homeschooling and all, I am really running low on time and even energy.
My other issue is all of the baking. I have NEVER In my life baked as much as I have this last year and frankly I. HATE .IT!!! So, why do I do it? .. Peer pressure really.... All of the other wives do it so...... and of course they do it well and apparently they enjoy it... me...not so much. So, I think I may just start buying store bought and passing it off on my own (and try not to feel guilty about it).
One more thing ,I am WAAAY tired of feeling that EVERYTHING I do and say is under the microscope. I am NOT perfect in any way shape or form. I yell at my husband...and my kids sometimes. I even say not so nice things about other people on occasion... really, I am flawed and I am not above admitting that. I sometimes have bad days and sometimes on those days I just want to laze around my home in jammies, no makeup, hair standing on end and not feel all of the pressure to always be ...well PERFECT......... Okay, I'm done. I REALLY just needed to get that out.
I will post pictures later of hopefully a finished sock and the Good Ole cable scarf I am working on. *GASP* with acrylic yarn.

2007-01-01T08:34:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas...Happy New Year!
I am quite thankful that we made it through the holidays. This was our first holiday season in the military (and chaplaincy) and boy was it ever BUSY...and a bit stressful.
During Christmas time, there are many holiday parties for the various squadrons on the base as well as one large wing party. Since DH is attached to so many different squadrons (as their chaplain) that meant we had ALOT of parties to attend...now normally, I would jump at the chance to get all dressed up and go out w/my husband (who looks great in his mess dress I might add) but, not only did we have to pay to attend these parties (even though they request us to be there for all of the formalities) but then we had to bring gifts...and pay for a sitter. That made me feel a little BAH HUMBUG....but, we did have lots of fun and it was nice to get all decked out and feel well....... attractive again!
We had a WONDERFUL Christmas. My mother flew in and was here for a whole week (even babysat the boys so we could attend another party) Of course, Nana spoiled the boys with LOTS of WONDERFUL gifts.
Dh was in charge of the Christmas eve service for the base and it turned out well. It was a nice way to end our evening and to reflect on what Christmas really means to our family!
I received the most beautiful gift from my husband for Christmas. A beautiful table top mahogany yarn swift. I will post it as soon as I can get a good picture of it!
HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!!!!!!

2006-12-08T05:57:00.000-08:00

I am sooo extremely behind in posting these pictures. I received these goodies from my sockret pal and let me tell you, she completely spoiled me!
Inside my box of goodies were...
4 bars of chocolate (1 of them included a SEE'S milk chocolate bar..yum!
1 hank of Cherry tree supersock (I LOVE this stuff) fall foliage colorway
1 skein of Southwest trading company bamboo yarn
A fall notepad
IK Holiday magazine
and my absolute favorite gift....a set of handmade (purple) stitch markers
Thank you SP...you are the best!!!!!

2006-12-01T06:10:00.000-08:00

I want to thank all of you for your comments regarding my last post. All is well....the whole family is healthy and DH has returned home!
We had a WONDERFUL Thanksgiving!
We drove up north and visited family that I have not seen in quite awhile. (The fit chick has posted a pic on her blog).
It was nice to be surrounded by loved ones. I am amazed at the strength of my family( especially my grandmother). She is a beautiful woman of grace and has faith that is unshakable. She is without question, the rock in our family.
On the knitting front...there has been not so much knitting. I have been either too sick or busy. I have knit a row or two here or there whenever I have gotten a chance but sadly, it just sits there lonely and waiting.....
I also received my socret pal package the day we left for Thanksgiving and it was filled with all sorts of goodies. My Socret pal is the best. (pics to follow shortly) Thank you thank you thank you!!!!!
Well I have to run......all of our Christmas errands await me......this is going to be a VERY busy month!

2006-11-08T04:41:00.000-08:00

Well.......so much for my wonderful B-day weekend.
I made it up north and then fell ill and by Saturday (on my birthday) I was in the ER w/ a full on Asthma attack (triggered by a simple little cold) I thought I was dying......I have NEVER had an attack like this. The doctor was talking about admitting me so they could try to get my lungs clearer... Of course I WAS NOT happy about this..... All I could think about was the fact that my little boys were away from not only their father but now mom as well.
Thankfully, they let me come home after HOURS of breathing treatments, steroids, and peakflows.
I am so grateful for my family. My brother stayed w/ my boys and took such great care of them...they were happy, fed and ready for bed by the time we made it home late that evening.
We have made it home safely and let me tell you I am counting the days until DH returns home. I miss him!
On the knitting front....no news. I am really itching to show you all the progress I have made on the wide whale ribbed socks. I will try and post pictures later this afternoon.

2006-11-01T05:33:00.000-08:00

I wanted to post a few pictures. The boys and I are on our way to visit the fam up north. Dh has left for TDY and I have a b-day coming up this weekend so...I thought it would probably be best to not be home by myself. I am sure this won't be the first b-day/anniversary or holiday that we will be apart but, it's still tough! Okay, that's the end of my rant ...sorry!
On to other things..... like the fact that Socktoberfest is over and I was hoping to get 2 pairs of socks out but, have only finished the black purl socks. I have almost finished another wide whale ribbed sock. Oh well, I was sidetracked trying to put together the boys' halloween costumes...(they were thing 1 and thing 2). I knitted their hair using this pattern and by the way, I REALLY do not get the whole fun fur thing.......I recently came across a cute button against fun fur on this blog. I may have to add it to mine. The boys were quite cute and they had a GREAT time and I have TONS of candy (not many trick or treaters made it to our end of the street...most of the families on this side have moved) so, I will have to find someone to pawn it off on.
I have been debating on whether or not I should go to stiches in Baltimore this weekend.....The fit chick will not be able to go ...I don't want to go alone so I may just skip it.
Have a GREAT weekend!

2006-10-25T08:40:00.000-07:00

Lornas Laces how do I love thee .........
FINALLY!!!!! The black purl socks are done and this black purl is in LOVE!!!!!!! My feet are in heaven.
I was so thrilled about my completed black purl socks....I immediately cast on for another pair using the Cherry Tree super sock yarn I just bought (it IS socktoberfest..isn't it????) I am sure I'll make some headway DH will be TDY for the next 3 weeks so hopefully I'll have another completed pair when he returns!

2006-10-23T15:29:00.000-07:00

I just received my package in the mail form my hot socks swap pal. Spinning Sue...you rock! I LOVE LOVE LOVE my new sock yarn the colors are so PERFECT! Okay so the contents were as follows :
2 skeins of hipknits hand dyed superwash sock yarn in a purpely/pink colorway...oohh sooo soft and cushy!
1 sock blocker keychain
An assortment of Whittard of Chelsea teas
Last but not least some WONDERFUL lindt dark chocolate (coffee flavored....yumm) I think my sneaky husband enjoys it just as much as I do..(that's him sneaking a piece)! My boys also loved the yarn and were WAY too excited about the tea.
Thank You Sue .......You're a great pal!

2006-10-13T06:37:00.000-07:00

I am so LATE posting these but here are my answers to the Soctoberfest Questions

When did you start making socks? I actually started my first pair of socks during sockapaloooza in January of this year.

Did you teach yourself or were you taught by a friend or relative? or in a class? I taught myself along w/ the help of many books.......
What was your first pair? My first pair were for my sockpal and I used Ann Norlings wide whale rib pattern.

How have they "held up" over time? I don't know........

What would you have done differently? I LOVED the socks and will make a pair for myself w/ the same pattern and yarn.

What yarns have you particularly enjoyed? I have been using Lornas Laces sock yarn and I LOVE IT!!!

Do you like to crochet your socks? or knit them on DPNs, 2 circulars, or using the Magic Loop method? DPNS all the way!!!!

Which kind of heel do you prefer? (flap? or short-row?) BOTH

How many pairs have you made? 2 pair (almost) and 1 toddler sock

2006-10-05T05:48:00.000-07:00

2006-10-05T05:25:00.000-07:00

Not too long ago, I had stated that I would NOT buy any more yarn until I had completed a few projects and I have shown much restraint.......remember the trip with my sister (when she bought EVERY single ball of Debbie Bliss that she could find.......) I only bought 2 things 1 skein of yarn for my completed alpaca scarf and a new set of dpns. Well, I knew this all could change once I joined the swap(s) but, I told myself I could do it...I would simply buy the yarn needed for the swap and that's it.......well, you all know how it goes. It all started w/ that darn Lornas Laces sock yarn.....I couldn't resist......then, it was the cherry tree hill supersock yarn.. and that my friends, is when I broke.....seriously,...my name is Janet and I am a fiber addict!
Enough of the confessional lest I slip about the knitpicks order..........
On Sunday evening (while watching 2 episodes of 24) I cast on for the other black purl sock ( this is my Socktoberfest sock) and have just about completed the sock.
In other news, the hot socks swap has begun and they gave us the option of not keeping the swap secret. My pal e-mailed me and asked if I wanted her to remain anonymous or not....well given the option I decided to find out and so now I know........and now I regret it a little bit. I am the absolute worst when it comes to these things.....the anticipation and excitement KILLS me. The other swaps are secret and those I can keep (another thing about me is that I REALLY like to follow the rules.... drives my pastor husband crazy). I will post more pictures of the completed sock soon.....oh, and maybe some pics of the new yarn.....

2006-10-02T07:27:00.000-07:00

Sock-ret Pal Questionnaire

The basics: How long have you been knitting?
Initially, I was taught to knit at about 10 years of age....(on teeny tiny needles) so...I decided that I would rather crochet. In the cool California fall of 2004 a good Danish friend of mine convinced me to try knitting. Thus began what is now my obsession w/ all things fiber related!

Do you consider yourself a beginning sock knitter, an intermediate, or have you been doing this so long you could probably knit a pair in your sleep?
I have knit 2 pairs of adult sock and 1 toddler sock so, I guess I am a beginner. I still knit form the cuff down on dpns (although I 'd like to try a toe up pattern) and have yet to make any fancy socks and the thought of the magic loop intimidates me a little.....

The measurements:
I am a US shoe size 8 1/2.

While your pal may ask for some additional info to ensure a great fit, please provide your shoe size, or any other fitting related info you think is pertinent. (fiber related)

Favorites: What colors do you love? I LOVE purples (not bright purples) deep darker ones, lavender, lilac, I have lately been drawn to autumnal colors like burnt orange, browns. greens, reds (not bright red). I also shockingly (for me) have been into pinks this year...

Do you prefer solids or variegated? BOTH

What fibers do you most love to knit with?

I am a self proclaimed yarn snob (my sister also refers to me as such) I love wool..especially soft squishy yarns... Supermerino, alpaca (I love the drape)

Who do you consider your favorite yarn vendors? Lornas Laces, Artyarns Supermerino, Koigu, I also like to knit with Lambs pride, Alpaca with a twist....EVERYTHING!

What projects (other than socks, of course*S*) do you most enjoy knitting? I like to knit scarves and shawls, Sweaters for babies/toddlers (fiber related)

Dislikes: Acrylic (I don't mind blends)

What fibers can you not stand to knit with? To wear? Acrylic

What colors would you never wear? Bright neon colors....(yuck!!!)

The Tools:

Plastic or Metal? Bamboo or wood? I typically use either bamboo, my denise int. or my pony pearls. I am faithful to my Denise Interchangeables

DPNs or Magic Loop? DPNS

Are there any knitting accessories you don't have in your collection but would like? I don't have any cool stitch markers..just your plain plastic ones

The Extras:

Do you have a wish list? If so, please share the link! No.....should I? Maybe....

Do you like sweet, sour or salty? (or all of the above? *S*) SWEET!!!!! Chocolate!!

Do you have any allergies your pal should know about? (Certain foods, smoke, pet hair, etc) Although I have a cat, (she's sweet but, stays away from me for the most part my DH is the love of her life!)I am allergic to them...... smoke bothers me as well!

Favorite scents? Anything fruity...passion fruit, Mango, coconut.....

Scents you can't stand? I like fruity scents. I like the body shop's Mango line....but mostly I wear Estee Lauders Beyond Paradise.

Do you collect anything (other than yarn and knitting toys of course)? No, I like to read....so I have tons of books.

When is your birthday? (month and day is fine!) November 4th

Do you spin? Dye your own yarn? Well......I purchased a drop spindle and some fleece @ Md S&W but, I have not used it yet! I would like to dye my own yarn though. I've read about kool aid dyeing but I am afraid the colors would end up being too bright for me!

Your favorite author/band/vacation spot, anything you think will help your pal know you better...
I LOVE to read. I am a classically trained vocalist so I do enjoy classical music but, I also like jazz, r&b (especially motown), I listen to a lot of gospel lately... Love Yolanda Adams, Fred Hammond, Isreal Houghton but also some of the contemporary praise and worship David Crowder band and Vineyard worship. We usually vacation near the beach (my husband is a surfer...and I cannot swim....funny huh!) I enjoy the warm weather and the salty sea smell, and the quaint beach town feel!

2006-09-29T19:48:00.000-07:00

Today, (Sept. 30) is my lil sis's birthday! If you've never checked out her blog you can see her here. At any rate she is officially mid-twenties ( I would say LATE twenties but...) It's been so much fun to discover a love for all things fiber related w/ my sister and now to know that are lives are more the same than not w/ both of our hubbies in the military.
In case you don't catch it from reading her blog, this chick is AMAZING....and fit. She is smart, beautiful, hilarious, kind, compassionate, determined, wise beyond her years , has a great way w/ words and the girl can do her thing w/ a hook...and two needles! I am blessed to have such a friend and sister. HAPPY BIRTHDAY GIRL!!! I LOVE YOU:)

2006-09-28T05:58:00.000-07:00

Has it really been since last Friday that I posted? We have been really busy this week and yesterday I spent ALL day cooking..... I took lunch to a friend and then we had dinner guests last night. Today, I am EXHAUSTED!
This afternoon DH is speaking @ the base Christian Fellowship Luncheon. This is his first one since we've been Active duty so , I thought it would be nice if I attended.
On the knitting front, I have completed 1 Mary Jane (after ripping it out 2 times) but, I have not picked up the sweater since DH has been home. I am hoping that I'll get some knitting time in this weekend Dh has a "down" day on Friday (day off). I am trying to organize all of the yarn I still have. I had vowed to work through my stash before buying new yarn but so, I may ebay some of it. I think I am definitely going to sell the fleece and spindle I bought at MD sheep and wool.
Well that's it for now.....I have some pics to post but will do that next time.

2006-09-22T13:17:00.000-07:00

So last night about 7:45 pm I put the boys down for bed (I actually let them watch a movie in bed....Charlottes Web) and worked on this while watching Survivor and Grey's Anatomy... ( LOVE THAT SHOW) It had been a L-O-N-G day w/ my opinionated 2 almost 3 year old and I REALLY needed to unwind. While this week has mostly been uneventful and things have gone quite smoothly....I CANNOT wait for DH to make it home..... This TDY went well and although it was just a week I think I am definitely getting used to this lifestyle.
I was hoping to be done w/ the sweater by the time DH came back but w/ homeschooling and all of the extra stuff this week (I hosted a Pampered Chef party) I was just too tired to concentrate on all of the fair isle. I cannot believe it has taken me so long w/ this sweater... but, now that I'm so close to being done, I cannot wait to try it on!!!
I decided to try on the sweet little sock on some sweet little toes the other day and ......well, um .....yeah, I will have to rip the sock and make a whole new one....this child's foot has grown quite a bit since we last measured. So.... I will have to send them after they've moved to Alaska.
I 've joined the socktoberfest and the hot socks swap......looking forward to that. I haven't had much time to join the KAL 's lately and figured that these two will be easy enough to do. I really wanted to sign up for the tea swap but, I missed out this time.....maybe next time!

2006-09-17T07:58:00.000-07:00

We have returned from the "happiest place on earth" and let me tell you I am all disneyed out! The boys had a WONDERFUL time. We spent 3 days doing the theme parks (thanks to our good friend who hooked us up w/ free park hoppers.....) Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom. Animal Kingdom was AMAZING.....if you ever go...you have got to see the Lion King show...INCREDIBLE!
We also went to sea world (they are offering free entry into the park for military members and their families .... active duty, retired, reservists etc. you can find the info here) and we LOVED it. Sea world doesn't have the theme park feel and I like that. It feels a little more relaxed and you can feed and pet dolphins...loved that. How many people can say they've fed and pet those cute little things.?
We stayed here and it was wonderful. All of you military families out there, you cannot beat the Armed Forces Vacation Club...we paid $300 for a 3 bdr condo for a week (two of those bedrooms were both masters w/ jacuzzis in each bdrm)..... NICE!
So, I didn't knit a thing on my trip......I thought about it but......it was DISNEY WORLD people...seriously, I think I was WAY too excited..in fact I told my husband the night before our 1st day @ the parks that I was "too excited to sleep"....remember that commercial....too cute!
Well, DH is gone on TDY so...I expect to get quite a bit of knitting done. I will leave you all w/ pictures and if any of you check out the Fit Chicks blog........her Dh is leaving for military training @ the end of this month (her b-day to be exact )...she could use some kind words.......

2006-09-07T09:55:00.000-07:00

Things have been EXTREMELY BUSY around our household lately. I think we are finding our groove with the homeschooling and I am LOVING it.( the boys are too) I cannot say enough about the curriculum..It is WONDERFUL!
We are leaving for Disney tomorrow morning but before I left I wanted to give a quick update on things. Let's start with all things knitted......Well, I finished 1 toddler sock and it is sooo cute! I really NEED a little girl of my own....I get WAAY too excited about all things pink and frilly......hmmm we'll see.....
Anyhow, I also started the frontside of my sweater form VK FALL 05. I finished up all 13 1/2 in. of K2 p2 ribbing and FINALLY have started the fair isle. Seriously, I was pretty sick of all the ribbing. I am hoping to get this sweater done sometime soon perhaps while DH is gone this month.
Now to the non- knitting related content.... My sweet little pooch has received a clean bill of health and I am relieved (to say the least) The whole thing was hard.... I was up for WEEKS in the middle of the night 3-4 times checking on her, walking her in our backyard, giving her pain medication it was like having a baby in the house again... But, we made it and, this is probably the healthiest she has been in her life! I have become one of those crazy dog people. I was even thinking how cute it would be if we got her a costume of her own for Halloween.......
I was going to post a picture of my new "hair" but, I completely forgot to take one....Maybe I'll upload one before I leave. I went to the hair store last night and bought a few "pieces" I was telling my husband that this is one of the things I LOVE about being a black woman.... Going to the hair store picking out a cute "new" doo and being able to switch things up. It's fun... It's been awhile since I have done the whole weave/braid thing and I am starting to get that itch again...There were even some cute wigs there and I thought can I really go there....(It reminded me of the one character played by Kim Fields in Living Single...Her wigs were always great) hmmm....Maybe I will

2006-08-30T14:03:00.000-07:00

I FINALLY have gotten around to taking pictures. Aren't the little socks just the cutest? I have enjoyed knitting them . I really have to get moving on them. I was hoping to have them done before we leave for vacation but...........
We have started homeschooling and we are LOVING it. The boys are loving all of the WONDERFUL books we have been reading. Yesterday, was DH day off and he did school w/ the boys and they were so thrilled.
I have been thinking about starting a private studio teaching flute and piano and possibly voice. The ONLY thing holding me back is TIME......And do I have enough of it. There are a few teachers here and the area probably could use another one but, people are just not wanting to pay as much. So is it really worth it????...... I am also looking into kindermusik....We'll see..
I will post more on my progress w/ the socks later. I am REALLY craving some new yarn but, I am REALLY trying to use up my stash....I heard that Knit Happens had a GREAT online sale....even checked it out.....it was quite difficult to not buy. We'll see how long I can actually keep this up.

2006-08-25T13:54:00.000-07:00

Just a quick update and pictures to follow later. I have started some sweet little socks for one of the cutest little girls I know. They are so tiny and too cute. I ended up using a sock yarn from my stash( sockotta) because I couldn't get the right gauge w/ the Regia...Strange huh!
I am hoping to finish these fairly soon because we have a pretty full schedule for the next 3-4 weeks.
We will be heading to FL. in a few weeks to take the kids to Disney. We were originally supposed to be attending our denominations convocation but, they changed the dates a few weeks back and we have a scheduling conflict so....We're going to Disneyworld:) Once we return home dh will be going TDY for a week......And again in October. We will only have a few weeks in between before he leaves again so, I am extremely thankful that he was able to get the time off for the trip to Orlando...I think I am more excited than the kids.
I also wanted to link an article that my hubby wrote for our base paper... You can read it here.

2006-08-14T06:52:00.000-07:00

PICTURES!!!!!
Here are pictures of things that I am currently working on. The pink scarf is done!! I love the yarn I used it's sooo soft. Then, there is the supermerino cabled scarf I am not sure if I am going to continue w/ this one or not. I don't think I like the cables w/ the variegated yarn. You can also see that I have completed ONE sock in the blackpurl colorway.....I LOVE lornas laces!!!! Then there is the Mary Jane that I ripped back a few days ago.
Once these are all completed I will begin again on the fair isle sweater that I have not yet finished.

2006-08-11T14:31:00.000-07:00

Today has been a tough one. We had an airman die at his workplace earlier this week. He was from one of my husbands units and many of his coworkers saw everything happen. He leaves behind a wife of over 20 years and a teenage daughter. Today was the funeral and it was amazing to see all of these big uniformed men crying...broken because they had lost a friend, leader, role model. I have realized just how often I take for granted the groggy kiss and goodbye that I give my husband before he leaves every morning. Today while talking to his wife, I wondered what their last goodbyes were like as he headed off to work that morning. It made think of the groggy kiss and slurred goodbyes that I give my husband every morning. Maybe just maybe, I should get up just a few minutes earlier and spend a few sweet moments w/ my husband every morning. Life is to short!

2006-08-10T07:48:00.000-07:00

So...I went to take pictures of all of my current projects and my batteries died.....So sow I am off to buy more. My camera eats batteries up. I JUST put them in last Saturday and I think I only took a few pictures.
Anyhow, last night I worked on completing a Mary Jane that I cast on for at the beach I was just about to start the heel graft when something told me to try it on...And it was too big so I ripped and ripped and ripped. Tried again and I had the same problem. I've made these before w/the same yarn and everything. ARGHHH!
I have been eyeballling a table swift from ebay. The clamp ones don't seem to work on my table (It's REALLY thick). Anyone ever used a flat table swift?

2006-08-08T07:33:00.000-07:00

I have been wanting to post so very badly but....I have been sick and today is the first day that I have actually not been on hard core pain killers and my mind feels clear enough to post.
Let me start by saying I had the BEST time at the beach...(a little over a week ago) all I did was sit and knit almost uninterrupted......w/ my favorite knitting partner my very own sister. It was great! I started 2 cute little scarves for a sweet little girl that lives next door. I chose a this wonderful baby alpaca yarn called alpaca with a twist. I have actually knitted with this yarn before and I love it! I also started a heavier scarf for the same little girl using this pattern and some variegated artyarns supermerino. I will post pictures after my two little ones are down for nap.
We also went to a cute little yarn shop called knitting up a storm and it felt so good to be in a yarn store again.....(I have not been to a yarn store since March....tragic!). Before this trip to the yarn store I had decided that I WOULD NOT buy anymore yarn until I have used up most of what I already have. I REALLY tried. The fit chick tried to convince me to buy more (it didn't help that thee was a sale on some WONDERFUL debbie bliss) but I was "mostly" disciplined....I only bought what I needed in baby yarn and some dpns but now seriously, I am kicking myself. Hopefully, this experience has motivated me to get to knitting through that yarn..........hmmm we'll see.

2006-07-28T12:32:00.000-07:00

I have FINALLY completed something.....1 sock...in the blackpurl colorway ....of course. However, I have yet to take a picture...batteries,... I need to get some.
These last few weeks have been a whirlwind of activity. I am hoping that soon, things will slow down...at least a little bit.
We found out that DH will be deploying......we thought it might be possible but, to be honest I was NOT prepared...... I feel okay about it today and I am sure things will be fine. Thankfully, my sister will be moving closer to me around the same time for a few months.
In other news, I will be meeting up w/the fitchick this weekend @the beach and I just may be able to convince her to hit some yarn stores.......I can HARDLY wait. I have to find some sock yarn for my neighbors sweet little girl...they are PCSing to ALASKA (PCSing=moving). So, I think some girly warm wool socks are in order and maybe a pair of mittens.

2006-07-12T06:08:00.000-07:00

Long time No post........well, hopefully things will be different around here for awhile. We have had so much going on but, it seems that things should be slowing down a bit (fingers crossed)!!!
I FINALLY was able to sit down and knit bit the other day and I am now stuffing a seaming up my little boys dinosaur...it's cute!
I have been really wanting to knit for this....I have been really intrigued by the idea of knitting with purpose, and as a way to provide comfort to someone who needs to know that someone is thinking and praying for them We serve a congregation of elderly people and there are many who have chronic illnesses. I was inspired by this book.
I am hoping that after I have completed the next few projects, that I can begin working on a shawl for someone............ maybe, within our own congregation.....I am looking into patterns and yarn choices.

2006-06-26T10:56:00.000-07:00

I must say that blogging has been the last thing on my mind lately and although, I have been thinking about knitting, unfortunately, I have not had a moment to sit and knit. I have been researching and reading ALOT about homeschooling and we have decided to go ahead and homeschool the boys and we are (especially me) excited about the benefits...travel (we can actually visit DH when he is TDY) and the stress of moving mid school year etc. We feel like this is a good fit for our family.
So, I think I want to wait until the end of the year to begin trying for a third baby.....just so we can get a good year under our belt and all.
In other news, DH and I celebrated our 6th wedding anniversary on Saturday! He was able to take off and another Chaplain took his service on Sunday and we were able to spend the weekend together doing "family" stuff and it was WONDERFUL!!! Although it felt weird to not be worried about our service, it was nice to just be........
It also looks like DH will not (fingers crossed) be deployed for awhile.....we think although things change VERY quickly around here!
Finally, did you see the comment posted on my last entry? Another blackpurl AND we have SOOO many similarities....WOW!!!!!!!
Next post ......maybe, I'll have a FO or two to share.

2006-06-16T05:50:00.000-07:00

I am having a hard time getting my pictures to upload to blogger AND they are not showing up in the correct order........uggggh!
At any rate, the last pictures are from Sheep and wool. Check out the Fit Chick's new toy and look at how quickly she picked it up!!!! Meanwhile, I have not yet picked up the spindle and as of late, I have been regretting the purchase...thinking that I could have bought WAY more yarn instead of buying into the idea that I could "spin" my own yarn........
On the knitting front, I have not made anymore progress on either the socks or the Dino. I have been so consumed with the dog and her impending heartworm procedure and trying to FINALLY unpack our office.
Last Sunday I had to lead the worship as our pianist was away....well, all I did was sing and it was soooo much harder with the boys. They were essentially left to do whatever the wanted w/dad in the pulpit and mom singing while giving the "you'd better sit down" look. NEVER. AGAIN!!!!!!
The funniest thing was that during the service, we sat up front....(normally I sit in the last row w/the boys just in case I have to exit w/a screaming child.) and while DH began communion he started by saying "on the night Jesus was handed over to Pontius Pilate" and went on to the last supper.......and well, that triggered the story of Jesus death and resurrection in the mind of my four year old and in his loudest whisper/yell he cupped his hands around his mouth and whispered/yelled "Dad, you forgot to tell them about the mean guys" It was soooo funny all of the congregation members tried to keep it together but we ALL had a great laugh after the service.
I am hoping to sort out this picture problem w/blogger or maybe, I'll just start using flikr........
Will post more once I've figured out what to do.

2006-06-16T05:34:00.000-07:00

2006-06-13T07:36:00.000-07:00

*disclaimer* I am sure that this post will be full of grammatical errors...run on's etc. So, in advance I apologize!

Okay, I am FINALLY back. I have had all sorts of things going on. The biggest thing is that my Hubby is back and I am TRULY a very HAPPY woman. We have been super busy at the Chapel, we have had some events to go to and then last week we had a death from our congregation so, that kept us pretty busy and I was sick....(I actually thought I might be pregnant but, I'm not however we are trying for #3.....so, we'll see how that goes!) Then, my sweet dog Millie has all sorts of health issues... we have been to the vet twice in less than a week (I am thankful for the base vet services) She has heartworms which if let untreated will kill her. Apparently, when we got her the spca was "SUPPOSED" to run a test but failed to do so ...and well, here we are. Off base, this could cost us anywhere between $1,500 and 2,000 but we will be doing all of the aftercare so it will cost us less than $200 dollars....can you believe that! So, we are waiting on a final blood test to make sure that she is a candidate for the procedure. It is VERY intense (like a cancer treatment) and will require crating her at home for 5 weeks w/ NO activity to keep her heart from having to work too hard. I think that's all of the non knitting related news here ....Oh one more thing, We have FINALLY decided to go ahead and homeschool our big boy this year (at least until we move to our next assignment and then we'll re-evaluate the public school option again).......
Now, on the knitting front.....I have not made much more progress on the sock but, I have started and almost finished my big boys Triceratops from this pattern. Every day he says to me... "Are you done with my dinosaur mommy?" I have not spent much time on it (not with all that has been going on ) but, I am hoping to finish it sometime this week!
I PROMISE at some point I will have a strictly picture update......... ahhh it's good to be back!!!!

2006-05-21T14:45:00.000-07:00

FINALLY....... I am online again!!!! After I returned home from Sheep and wool my computer went on the fritz and I could not figure out what the deal was........I FINALLY figured out.....I don't know how but, I am now playing "catch up". I had .....220 EMAILS in my inbox!!!! WHAT??!!! I have yet to tackle that mess........
Well...first things first.... SHEEP AND WOOL.....WOW!! I have NEVER seen anything like it!!! I was AMAZING and a bit overwhelming....so much yarn to choose from and sooo many knitters and their faithful husbands carrying all of their wool........ My sister and I had a ball! I was so glad that I decided to make the 7 hour drive it was soooo worth it.
I bought some REALLY great linen/mohair blend by Louet Sales. I also was persuaded by this one to buy a drop spindle and some fleece to spin. However, I am not sure this was a smart purchase on my behalf because I have not been able to catch onto the whole spinning thing. Of course the Fit Chick got it right away and was spinning BEFORE we got out of the parking lot to go home!!!!!!
I also received my socks......wow! Pilar did such a GREAT job and she didn't even use a pattern....and I LOVE the colors .
I also have started a new pair of socks with my Lornas Laces superwash in the Black purl colorway...(how appropriate!!!)
I am hoping to post pictures soon!

2006-05-04T05:10:00.000-07:00

Sheep and wool......here we come!
We are leaving this morning to make the LONG drive to our families house up in the DC metro area. The boys will be coming with us to the fairgrounds...and are really excited to see the sheep. We (my sister and I) are really excited to see all of the yarn.........I am hoping that I bring enough money.....umm, no wait... I couldn't possibly bring enough money. At any rate we are hoping to enhance out stash and will be posting to tell all about it in a few days...till then.......

2006-04-29T07:22:00.000-07:00

My First socks are done...yay!
I like them. I am glad that I decided to switch patterns. I was really not feeling the lace with the variegated yarn. I hope my sock pal likes them! I liked the Ann Norling pattern and will probably use it again.
Now, it's time to start planning the next pair of socks and maybe a cute little tank or something!

2006-04-28T05:52:00.000-07:00

This post is mostly non-knitting content...I REALLY just needed a place to vent.
I am REALLY struggling with DH being gone and it's not just him being gone for the next six weeks, it's thinking about the long deployments and questioning whether or not I can make it through. While we both knew what this military life would consist of...(TDY's, deployments, single parenting and lots of moving) I just have not been handling this as well as I thought I would. I have been completely emotional...crying at the drop of a hat (I actually started to cry in Target in the middle of a conversation with a friend). Dh and I have been apart before but, I think the reality of this lifestyle is sinking in and on top of it all I feel like I HAVE to have it together in public.......(I am sure I am the only one with this expectation...to an extent) truthfully, I REALLY am far from having it all together and I don't want to fall into the trap that many of us (pastors/chaplains wives) do.....................................................
I'll stop there, and the next post I promise will be knitting related

2006-04-27T06:56:00.000-07:00

RAIN RAIN GO AWAY...........
It has been raining since yesterday afternoon and all of this rain just makes me want to do NOTHING .....except knit of course. But, with two little ones and DH gone......
I have found the most ADORABLE dinosaur patterns. The boys are WAAAAY into dinosaurs so now, it's time to find some yarn that will work. I have yet to find a yarn store I think I'd even be hard pressed to find a Michaels or any other crafting store here in Sumter. Oh well, I can shop online I guess or just wait to hit some shops with my sister when I go up for sheep and wool.. (By the way, she's been ABSENT from her blog for FOREVER.....what's up with that?)
Well, I'm off to get some knitting done and to hunt for some yarn........

2006-04-26T07:52:00.000-07:00

I checked out the new Knitty and .......just a little dissapointed. Maybe the t-twist but I think I like the Picovoli better......we'll see. Now, I just need to find some yarn hmmmm...............

2006-04-24T18:16:00.000-07:00

Socks......well, here's the progress I promised a week ago....I have completed one sock and I hope to finish the remaining sock this evening or tommorrow and then.....in the mail it goes along with some yummy yarn I bought on ebay!
On the non knitting front, DH has left for the next 6 weeks for a Chaplains course at Maxwell, AFB in Alabama. It's been a little rough for the boys and I am initally feeling alittle lonely..but, this is just a taste of the 4-6 month deployment that wil be coming in a little more than a year. So, I am trying to hang in there....I am going to try to pick a few new projects to keep me busy in the evenings.
I am lookin g forward to MS&W in a few weeks. I have been debating about going with the rise in gas prices but...I think I 'll just do it!
Well, I will post more later....hopefullly with completed socks!

2006-04-18T08:27:00.000-07:00

I hate to post without pictures but........a quick update on the socks and everything else (not knitting related) I completely started a whole new sock and have almost completed the first one. I really hated the lace pattern with the stripes. I think I will attempt the lace with a solid sock yarn next time. I am using an Ann Norling pattern....the whale rib. It has gone pretty quickly and I REALLY need to finish so I can make the quickly approaching deadline.
I will have lots of time in the evening I think because.....my DH will be TDY (Temporary Duty) for the next 6 WEEKS! I guess this will be just a glimpse of what it will be like when he deploys......which we think will be next year about in November...but, who knows.?We are adjusting to military life in the chaplaincy. We stay pretty busy and it's even more hectic when DH is on call. We had a pretty scary plane crash a few weeks back and DH thought we might have to do a death notification but, THANKFULLY the pilot was found a few hours later in the Atlantic after ejecting at 600 mph!
The boys and I will be heading to VA to meet up with my sister so we can go to MS&W ...niether of us has been before so we are REALLY excited.
That's it for now. Will post pics later tonight. We have dinner guests for the next few nights but, hopefully I'll get to squeeze some knitting time in!

2006-04-03T11:14:00.000-07:00

This is a pic I took last night before I began working more on the foot.

2006-04-03T11:01:00.000-07:00

FINALLY!!!!
We are finally here at Shaw AFB and settling in to this new way of life. We are settling into our new house (which by the way we LOVE) and we are adjusting to life in a small town. We mostly stay on base so...that makes it bearable...
We've acquired two new additions to the Francis Family......Milly (she came with the name) and Cat (who will be re-named at some point) They are sweet "first-pets" and the boys LOVE them.
Knitting...well, to be honest there hasn't been much of it until last week and I think I already am thinking that this sock pattern is ALL wrong. I think that the striping yarn takes away from the lace pattern.....so........ I suppose I must trudge on since the exchange is only a month away! I am hoping to finish these by the end of next week (we'll see about that since I am still only on the first sock).
Will post more later...hopefully with pics of the sock..........

2006-02-22T19:15:00.000-08:00

We are FINALLY all packed and ready to go. The movers came today and this was the single most pleasant moving experience we have EVER had! We will never do it ourselves again! It did take them all day to pack all of our things but...it's done and it was sooo low stress!
It's hard to believe that in just a weeks time we will "officially" begin our military career. It has been a LONG LONG road up until this point and we are so thrilled to be able to serve our service members in this capacity!
Okay, so onto knitting news. While preparing for our move I starting going through some childhood boxes and I found this dress that I had crocheted for one of my dolls when I was about 9 years old. I showed it to my sister the other day and she remembered that I was obsessed about completing it...(which I am sure is pretty true I tend to be just a little obsessive when I set my mind on something). I also started a new sock for my sockpal and I think FINALLY, I am on the right track!
Well, hopefully I will have a chance to post before we head off to our new assignment
Until then.........

2006-02-22T18:53:00.000-08:00

Remember the sock that I thought was way too big? Well, here it is . As painful as it was to rip it apart I changed to smaller needles and new yarn!

2006-02-17T08:23:00.000-08:00

I have begun my sockapaloooza socks and I do like the lace pattern but, I am kind of worried that they may be too big.
The pattern is written for a 7 1/2 in. foot circumference and 9 in long from the back of heel to the tip of the toe.....(my sockpals measurements are 10 in. foot circumference and a 10 1/2 in. foot length.) so I cast on 64 sts, worked the ribbing and then began the lace pattern as written BUT, it looks big to me.......

I guess I will continue to work the pattern out and see. Any suggestions would be quite helpful!

2006-02-17T08:22:00.000-08:00

Completed Shawl

2006-02-17T07:49:00.000-08:00

This is what we woke up to last Sunday morning. Having lived in S. Cali for the last 3 1/2 years, this was the first REAL snowstorm the boys have ever experienced. Though they were both sick, they did get to spend about 15 minutes playing in the snow.......
It has been quite a few years since I have seen snow (since we've been living in Florida and California) and although initially it was pretty to see......I REALLY have not missed it all that much.

2006-02-11T20:04:00.000-08:00

SOCK PAL SOCKS!!!

I have FINALLY settled on a pattern and yarn (I think) for my sock pals socks. I just received the spring issue of IK and will be using this
I think I have settled on using sockotta sock yarn that's variegated. I am unsure just how much knitting I will get done this week. Our move is quickly approaching!
We are starting to become quite anxious about all that needs to be done but.....we are sooooo excited! It has been such a LONG road up until this point.......
Kelvin will pin on his new rank on Monday!!!! We will post pics... I am so proud of him!
Well I 've got to run... I will post more later.....hopefully then, I will have some pictures of the socks and...a completed shawl...(thought I'd abandoned it huh!)

2006-02-10T06:30:00.000-08:00

Here they are....FINALLY! They've been done since Tuesday but, I've only just recently taken pictures of them. Today they are off to Florida and I hope my good friend enjoys them!

I re-started a shawl that I completed this summer...... (only to rip it out on Sunday to add width and length to it) Now, I know that there was an easier way to do this but the yarn is a ribbon-stringy type and it was so hard to actually pick up stitches so.........2 balls later of Karabella Magic I cast on for the SHAWL PART 2!
Pictures to follow.........

2006-02-07T12:55:00.000-08:00

Decisions Decisions

Okay, so I had bought some GREAT artyarns supermerino thinking that I would knit my sock pal's socks using an Ann Norling pattern however I re-read the info given to me about my sock pal and the fiber and colors are all wrong. I got the colors she wanted mixed up with her fiber preference.
So now I realize that I probably should find a new pattern and maybe a varigated yarn! So...........maybe some Lornas Laces! I might use this pattern
I haven't knit much since Sunday. Preparing for this move has distracted me from all of my MANY projects. Hoping to send out the sweet Mary Janes this week to my dear friend in Florida. I will post pictures of the finished product this evening hopefully.

2006-02-05T08:02:00.000-08:00

One down one to go

2006-02-04T06:23:00.000-08:00

There's been lots of action in my neck of the woods....knitting that is. I started the
Sweet Mary Janes on Thursday night while watching The Count of Monte Cristo (just finished the book... the movie was good but of course the book was MUCH better) I had to work a bit on getting the provisional cast on but got help from here. (love that site by the way) I like this pattern, it's seems to be a quick and gratifying knit!
Also on the needles is Crumpets This is being knit for a sweet baby girl in Southern California who just NEEDS something cute and frilly..... I also have a cute Fair Isle vest from the fall 05 issue of VK needing to be completed. The vest has 13.5" of ribbing so.......(enough said)
Finally, I have the socks for the sockapaloooza that I need to start.
Whew! I think I have enough on my plate for a while so, maybe a ban on the LYS for awhile......not unless a certain person MAKES me go...seriously, I think I have a serious addiction to all the wonderful fibery goodness of wool!

2006-02-02T11:53:00.000-08:00

Last night I recieved my sockpal information! I am sooooo excited about being part of this knit along! Now it's time to get to work. I picked up some GREAT yarn today from my LYS for a few projects that I have in the que.
The 2 skeins of Artyarns supermerino may become a pair of socks and the Noro Kueryon is destined to be a pair of these.
Although, I did not join this KAL, I have beem eyeballing this pattern for a dear friend of mine (who hopefully) is not lurking the pages og this blog!
I also bought an Ann Norling sock pattern. I'd better get moving on those socks...maybe I'll cast on tonight.
Until then...........

2006-01-24T07:34:00.000-08:00

I have been an avid reader of MANY of the knitting blogs out there in blogland and have enjoyed getting to peek in on many of these wonderful knitters latest projects.
I will admit however that I have been a bit intimidated about acquiring my own "knitting blog". I AM still a beginner (although I have moved on from scarves...) but, I suppose you have to crawl before you can walk...right?
So, we'll have a go at it and see what happens....At the very least I suppose that this will enable me to look back at my progress and maybe meet some new friends out there in blogland.