Sunday, June 25, 2006
Visit from Auntie & Toby
My sister, "Auntie" to the kids, and her boyfriend visited this weekend. It was nice to take Friday off and spend some time with my sister. It's been over six months since she was last here.
Friday we took the kids out to lunch at Chili's - their request - and then spent some time shopping for flip flops and other summer stuff at Old Navy - my request. The kids got a little tired of our shopping habits of looking at everything for the best deals. We finally had to cave and take the kids back home for a low key afternoon. We had pizza for dinner after a short trip to the school playground.
Saturday we went ot Clark's game against the Marlins. Luan and Toby loved watching Clark and seeing how cute he looked in his uniform.
Steve spent most of the afternoon getting packed for the Cub Scout Magness Camp. Meanwhile, Luan and I ran some errands at Target, Clark played XBox with Toby, and Shea just played. (Guess she fell asleep in a pile of pillows behind Toby's chair, and they lost her for a while.)
Saturday evening we went to the Rockies game with dinner at Flying Dog, as usual. The game had a 35 minute rain delay. And did it ever ran. We ran for cover in the upper tier above the Mile High seats.
Sunday was spent with breakfast at Cafe Opa, and then Steve and Clark headed to Magness Camp. Shea attended a birthday party this afternon, while I took Luan and Toby to the airport. She gave them a quick good-bye, but after the party, she really missed them.
In knitting news, I finshed my swatch for Mystery Stole 2006. This was the swatch I liked best on US Size 4 needles:
I can tell that I need to practice lace style casting on and off. Plus, I'm a little concerned that the color is too pastel, as pastel is not recommended for this stole, but since this is the color Zephyr I ordered before I knew about the Mystery Stole KAL, I'm going to go ahead and use it.
Friday we took the kids out to lunch at Chili's - their request - and then spent some time shopping for flip flops and other summer stuff at Old Navy - my request. The kids got a little tired of our shopping habits of looking at everything for the best deals. We finally had to cave and take the kids back home for a low key afternoon. We had pizza for dinner after a short trip to the school playground.
Saturday we went ot Clark's game against the Marlins. Luan and Toby loved watching Clark and seeing how cute he looked in his uniform.
Steve spent most of the afternoon getting packed for the Cub Scout Magness Camp. Meanwhile, Luan and I ran some errands at Target, Clark played XBox with Toby, and Shea just played. (Guess she fell asleep in a pile of pillows behind Toby's chair, and they lost her for a while.)Saturday evening we went to the Rockies game with dinner at Flying Dog, as usual. The game had a 35 minute rain delay. And did it ever ran. We ran for cover in the upper tier above the Mile High seats.
Sunday was spent with breakfast at Cafe Opa, and then Steve and Clark headed to Magness Camp. Shea attended a birthday party this afternon, while I took Luan and Toby to the airport. She gave them a quick good-bye, but after the party, she really missed them.
In knitting news, I finshed my swatch for Mystery Stole 2006. This was the swatch I liked best on US Size 4 needles:
I can tell that I need to practice lace style casting on and off. Plus, I'm a little concerned that the color is too pastel, as pastel is not recommended for this stole, but since this is the color Zephyr I ordered before I knew about the Mystery Stole KAL, I'm going to go ahead and use it.
Wednesday, June 21, 2006
2nd Grader
Yesterday was Clark's last day of First Grade. I must admit that it was bittersweet. I can't believe he's finished First Grade and now he's a big second grader! The years truly do fly by as quickly as everyone says they do.
Ella is coming along nicely even though I manage to miscount or miss a yarn over every other row or so.
I finally received my Jaggerspun Zephyr in Teal. I hope to be able to swatch soon for the Mystery Stole. It's much finer than I thought it would be, although I don't know why since it is laceweight after all. I can't decide if I want to continue with Teal, since a jewel tone is suggested for the Mystery Stole. I'm hoping I'll be able to decide once I finish swatching.
Ella is coming along nicely even though I manage to miscount or miss a yarn over every other row or so.
I finally received my Jaggerspun Zephyr in Teal. I hope to be able to swatch soon for the Mystery Stole. It's much finer than I thought it would be, although I don't know why since it is laceweight after all. I can't decide if I want to continue with Teal, since a jewel tone is suggested for the Mystery Stole. I'm hoping I'll be able to decide once I finish swatching.
Sunday, June 18, 2006
Father's Day
Happy Father's Day to all of the dads out there!
Steve's gift from us/me was a bottle of Scotch. ;)
The great father and husband that he is, he agreed to make a road trip to Estes Park for the Wool Market. I thought it might be fun for the kids. That was until about 10 minutes into the trip and Clark and Shea started arguing in the back seat for the best spots to put their pillows. Then we took a wrong turn due to crazy highway numbers and went on a 45 minute detour. Eventually we made it to Oskar Blues Cajun Grill & Brewery in Lyons, CO. The food was awesome and the beer was great, too!
After lunch we headed to Estes Park, only about a 30 minute drive from Lyons, to the Wool Market. The kids loved petting all of the animals. Steve didn't even realize how many different animals provide wool to make yarn. We all liked the alpacas and llamas. I thought the bunnies were the softest, although Steve and Clark voted for the alpacas. I failed to purchase anything, although I did get to see Brooks Farm Yarn in person, and it was as beautiful as I thought it would be, yet just as expensive. Since I'm rather stocked on my stash with many projects lined up, I convinced myself not to spend another $50 or so on yarn.
We browsed for a couple of hours at the Wool Market and then decided to head to Estes Park for ice cream. We were very surprised at the number of tourists, but we lucked out on parking and found a nice ice cream parlor for the kids and a coffee shop for Steve and me.
We left in enough time to get home at a decent hour. Unfortunately, Clark ended up getting car sick on the way back. Poor guy! The winding road between Estes Park and Lyons was just too much after having ice cream. It was sadly ironic that Clark got sick on both Mother's Day and Father's Day.
Steve's gift from us/me was a bottle of Scotch. ;)
The great father and husband that he is, he agreed to make a road trip to Estes Park for the Wool Market. I thought it might be fun for the kids. That was until about 10 minutes into the trip and Clark and Shea started arguing in the back seat for the best spots to put their pillows. Then we took a wrong turn due to crazy highway numbers and went on a 45 minute detour. Eventually we made it to Oskar Blues Cajun Grill & Brewery in Lyons, CO. The food was awesome and the beer was great, too!
After lunch we headed to Estes Park, only about a 30 minute drive from Lyons, to the Wool Market. The kids loved petting all of the animals. Steve didn't even realize how many different animals provide wool to make yarn. We all liked the alpacas and llamas. I thought the bunnies were the softest, although Steve and Clark voted for the alpacas. I failed to purchase anything, although I did get to see Brooks Farm Yarn in person, and it was as beautiful as I thought it would be, yet just as expensive. Since I'm rather stocked on my stash with many projects lined up, I convinced myself not to spend another $50 or so on yarn.
We browsed for a couple of hours at the Wool Market and then decided to head to Estes Park for ice cream. We were very surprised at the number of tourists, but we lucked out on parking and found a nice ice cream parlor for the kids and a coffee shop for Steve and me.
We left in enough time to get home at a decent hour. Unfortunately, Clark ended up getting car sick on the way back. Poor guy! The winding road between Estes Park and Lyons was just too much after having ice cream. It was sadly ironic that Clark got sick on both Mother's Day and Father's Day.Thursday, June 15, 2006
Lovin' Lace
What is it about lace? Is it the beautiful pattern? Or the way the light catches in between the stitches? Is it the lovely drape? Or how something so elegant can be both practical for warmth and frivolous for airiness? Maybe it's the color or it's pure sexiness? Whatever the reason I was immediately drawn to it, and it seems to be one of the hot knitting trends.
Even though Ella isn't the laciest pattern it has started out as a good learning experience. I struggled with both knitting with laceweight (albeit double-stranded) for the first time. I was very close to purchasing a set of Denise needles, since my Boye's were frustrating me - too pointy, not pointy enough, too slippery yet a pain to work with the lump between cable and needle. And the p2tog tbl and k2tog tbl's - even more aggravating. I even broke one of my lace strands struggling with a p2tog tbl stitch. Well, I finally figured it out last night! Why didn't I check out KnittingHelp first?! I was picking up my stitches from the wrong side. Not only was I getting an extra YO because I wasn't differentiating between a p2tog tbl and a k2tog tbl, but I was twisting my stitches. Whew! Thank goodness for KnittingHelp! That site is such a boon for knitters! Now I don't even have to splurge on a set of Denise's.
Now I'm knitting along rather nicely, if I do say so myself. After knitting Calla, I'm more familiar with how lace stitches look on the needle. It's helping me count my stitches because it's a little difficult to use markers, since the count changes with every row. In fact one of my fellow Mystery Stole 2006 participants noted that as one gets more familiar with knitting lace the use of lifelines could be come non-existant. She points out that fear and over analyzing are the lace's biggest roadblocks. The aids of markers and lifelines help at first, but the knitter soon learns how to read her stitches and correct mistakes just like any other knitted pattern. Cool! This gives me hope that someday it won't take me six weeks to complete one lacy tank top.
Speaking of Mystery Stole 2006, I joined on a whim thinking it would be a great way to test out my Jaggerspun Zephyr. (Hoping it arrives in the mail today!) What a great group! There is already a nicely sized group of Colorado participants. I'm getting really excited to get started. I'm hoping I'll have Ella complete before we receive or first clue July 7. A jewel toned or white yarn has been suggested. Too bad I only have a pastel colored yarn in 1200 yards, but we'll see. I'm hoping I'll still be pleased with the results.
I think we may get to visit the Estes Park Wool Market on Sunday! Convinced DH that it might be a fun road trip. AND I think I'll have my new camera in time, too! :D
Even though Ella isn't the laciest pattern it has started out as a good learning experience. I struggled with both knitting with laceweight (albeit double-stranded) for the first time. I was very close to purchasing a set of Denise needles, since my Boye's were frustrating me - too pointy, not pointy enough, too slippery yet a pain to work with the lump between cable and needle. And the p2tog tbl and k2tog tbl's - even more aggravating. I even broke one of my lace strands struggling with a p2tog tbl stitch. Well, I finally figured it out last night! Why didn't I check out KnittingHelp first?! I was picking up my stitches from the wrong side. Not only was I getting an extra YO because I wasn't differentiating between a p2tog tbl and a k2tog tbl, but I was twisting my stitches. Whew! Thank goodness for KnittingHelp! That site is such a boon for knitters! Now I don't even have to splurge on a set of Denise's.
Now I'm knitting along rather nicely, if I do say so myself. After knitting Calla, I'm more familiar with how lace stitches look on the needle. It's helping me count my stitches because it's a little difficult to use markers, since the count changes with every row. In fact one of my fellow Mystery Stole 2006 participants noted that as one gets more familiar with knitting lace the use of lifelines could be come non-existant. She points out that fear and over analyzing are the lace's biggest roadblocks. The aids of markers and lifelines help at first, but the knitter soon learns how to read her stitches and correct mistakes just like any other knitted pattern. Cool! This gives me hope that someday it won't take me six weeks to complete one lacy tank top.
Speaking of Mystery Stole 2006, I joined on a whim thinking it would be a great way to test out my Jaggerspun Zephyr. (Hoping it arrives in the mail today!) What a great group! There is already a nicely sized group of Colorado participants. I'm getting really excited to get started. I'm hoping I'll have Ella complete before we receive or first clue July 7. A jewel toned or white yarn has been suggested. Too bad I only have a pastel colored yarn in 1200 yards, but we'll see. I'm hoping I'll still be pleased with the results.
I think we may get to visit the Estes Park Wool Market on Sunday! Convinced DH that it might be a fun road trip. AND I think I'll have my new camera in time, too! :D
Sunday, June 11, 2006
Red Rocks, BHTM & True Blue Ella
Last night's date night at Red Rocks was THE BEST! It's the third time we've seen Big Head Todd & the Monsters (well, fourth actually, if I count the fact that we completely missed them due to severe traffic when they opened up for Dave Matthews at Mile High in 1999) and the second time we've seen them at Red Rocks. It definitely won't be the last! We'll have to make it a yearly tradition. ;) Their music is nice on the radio, but seeing them live really showcases their true talent. Steve agrees that they truly play some of very best live shows he's seen, and he's seen many a concert. I, on the other hand, completely think they ROCK and that nobody could compete, but I won't divulge my concert-going past, as it's not exactly the stuff of rock legends. Todd Park Mohr is a guitar-playing, song-writing god, and it doesn't hurt that he's tall, dark & handsome. ;)
Of course, there isn't a better venue than Red Rocks, and last night's weather was perfect, especially since we didn't get a freak rainstorm, which are common to the stadium. Wish I would have brought my camera, but I didn't think it would be allowed inside. I saw quite a few cameras which made it past security, however.
I'm hoping to cast-on today for Ella. I'm using my handpaintedyarn.com Lace Wool in Emaral Blue and Buscando Azul.
I was inspired by Liz's Athena Dreams blog and her Ella made of KnitPicks' Shimmer. After e-mailing her she advised she used US size 8 needles. Here's my swatch.
Of course, there isn't a better venue than Red Rocks, and last night's weather was perfect, especially since we didn't get a freak rainstorm, which are common to the stadium. Wish I would have brought my camera, but I didn't think it would be allowed inside. I saw quite a few cameras which made it past security, however.
I'm hoping to cast-on today for Ella. I'm using my handpaintedyarn.com Lace Wool in Emaral Blue and Buscando Azul.
I was inspired by Liz's Athena Dreams blog and her Ella made of KnitPicks' Shimmer. After e-mailing her she advised she used US size 8 needles. Here's my swatch.
Saturday, June 10, 2006
Calla is Finished!!
Woo Hoo! I finshed it this morning. I should probably block it, but I wanted to wear it today.
Pattern: MagKnits Calla by Sauniell N. Connally, Size S
Yarn: Debbie Bliss Wool/Cotton
Needle Size: US Size 3
Started: 4/27/06
Completed: 6/10/06
Special Notes: It is a beautiful pattern, and I really loved the challenge of knitting it. Other than my frustrations near the end of knitting the top of the tank, it was never boring and fun to knit.
I altered the pattern by knitting it in the round. I got a little confused with the decreases at what would have been the ends of each panel, so it looks a little odd on the sides at times. Plus, the straps look a little wonky where I stitched them together since they all got a little uneven at the ends.
One thing I will have to say is that I either need to learn how to knit cables without a cable needle or I need to invent a needle that can't be lost. I was continually dropping it in between the seat cushions of the couch.
We saw Cars this morning. What a terrific show! I just love PIXAR.
Tonight we get an entire date night - going to a concert at Red Rocks. Since we'll be home so late, the kids will be staying at a friend's house, and we'll spend the night at a hotel.
Pattern: MagKnits Calla by Sauniell N. Connally, Size S
Yarn: Debbie Bliss Wool/Cotton
Needle Size: US Size 3
Started: 4/27/06
Completed: 6/10/06
Special Notes: It is a beautiful pattern, and I really loved the challenge of knitting it. Other than my frustrations near the end of knitting the top of the tank, it was never boring and fun to knit.
I altered the pattern by knitting it in the round. I got a little confused with the decreases at what would have been the ends of each panel, so it looks a little odd on the sides at times. Plus, the straps look a little wonky where I stitched them together since they all got a little uneven at the ends.
One thing I will have to say is that I either need to learn how to knit cables without a cable needle or I need to invent a needle that can't be lost. I was continually dropping it in between the seat cushions of the couch.
We saw Cars this morning. What a terrific show! I just love PIXAR.
Tonight we get an entire date night - going to a concert at Red Rocks. Since we'll be home so late, the kids will be staying at a friend's house, and we'll spend the night at a hotel.
Friday, June 09, 2006
June Update
I'm so close to finishing Calla that I'm actually getting excited about knitting it again. I've really struggled since I started working on the top tank. I've had to frog nearly every row I knit. I can't believe I actually made it this far!
I caved and gave into the awesomeness that is ebay and JaggerSpun Zephyr. (Check out the seller sarasiegel, as she's wonderful to work with and her prices can't be beat!) You've gotta love it when you can get an entire 1 pound, 5040 yard cone of 50% Chinese Tussah silk & 50% fine grade Merino wool. All of this for only $40.23, including shipping! It took a lot of debate, but I finally decided on Teal. Since it's one of my favorite colors, I'm hoping that I won't get too tired of it after knitting 5000 yards worth of projects.
My eBay auctions went really well! Other than the constant trips to the post office to ship packages, I'd do it all over again. Now I just have to decide where to order my camera and place my order.
Here's a fun site to check out: www.crumplebags.com. The design is very unique and you've gotta check out any store that gives you stuff for beer. ;) Cool bags, too.
I caved and gave into the awesomeness that is ebay and JaggerSpun Zephyr. (Check out the seller sarasiegel, as she's wonderful to work with and her prices can't be beat!) You've gotta love it when you can get an entire 1 pound, 5040 yard cone of 50% Chinese Tussah silk & 50% fine grade Merino wool. All of this for only $40.23, including shipping! It took a lot of debate, but I finally decided on Teal. Since it's one of my favorite colors, I'm hoping that I won't get too tired of it after knitting 5000 yards worth of projects.
My eBay auctions went really well! Other than the constant trips to the post office to ship packages, I'd do it all over again. Now I just have to decide where to order my camera and place my order.
Here's a fun site to check out: www.crumplebags.com. The design is very unique and you've gotta check out any store that gives you stuff for beer. ;) Cool bags, too.
Sunday, June 04, 2006
On Frogging & Baseball
I'll start out with the baseball. It's been a baseball weekend. Clark had his first Tee-Ball game Saturday morning. It was great that his grandparents were visiting and could see him. He did very well - got some hits, runs, and catches.
Plus, we went to the Rockies game Sunday afternoon. It was HOT! HOT! HOT! But Grandpa managed to catch a Marlin's home run ball, and Clark was the lucky recipient of it. Very cool! Our very first game ball. We even saw Grandpa's catch later on the evening news.
As for the frogging, I haven't had much luck with Calla lately. It seems that for every row I knit I've ended up frogging it later. UGH!
Plus, we went to the Rockies game Sunday afternoon. It was HOT! HOT! HOT! But Grandpa managed to catch a Marlin's home run ball, and Clark was the lucky recipient of it. Very cool! Our very first game ball. We even saw Grandpa's catch later on the evening news.
As for the frogging, I haven't had much luck with Calla lately. It seems that for every row I knit I've ended up frogging it later. UGH!
