hype

February

2012-02-05T14:47:00.002-05:00

I love February. To me, it's the promise of Spring. In 3 weeks our crocus will be peeking their fresh beginnings out from under the winter soil. Also, I had a beautiful baby girl one February, 17 years ago. I cannot even put into words what this child means to me. All goodness, this one.

Happy Birthday, #3!!!

I have big fiber goals for February. I have already warped my loom for the Spunky Eclectic Weaving Club's second kit, Spaced. This kit was shipped last spring! But, hey, now... we're not on REAL world time here, remember? We lovingly refer to it as "Stover time" around here. That's mama-of-7 time. That's youhavemorefreetimethanmebutwhosecounting time.

Speaking of weaving club, I'm looking forward to the next shipment coming in mid February. Yet another reason to love February! It's fun to receive surprises in the mail. I love that my awesome husband is so supportive. My YES man. I went with the neutral colorways this round. I chose the wild colorways last time. Here's my first kit. It's Houndstooth in the wild colorway.

Wanna see my first ever scarf? I used some cotton for the warp and Sanguine Gryphon Traveller for the weft. I fulled it a bit during finishing. Soooo soft.

So, yeah, the weaving bug has bitten. I go to sleep at night dreaming of possibilities! I just got a steal on a Cricket to add to my loom collection and I ordered a new custom built peg loom from daisyhillhandiworks!
I'm thinking a warp per month is a reasonable weaving goal.

Hoping for more spinning time, too. I recently spun the December Hello Yarn club, Kitsune (Polwarth/silk) into a 3 ply. It's roughly 450 yards. Here's the whole fiber story.

Look at that cute little Andean 2 ply leftover. Hexipuff, anyone?

In other spinning, here's what's fresh off my spindles this week:

I've finished a simple crochet shawl of my own design. This is handspun 2 ply lace weight yarn from Dragonflyfibers. It's luscious merino/silk, but I can't even tell you the name of the colorway because it belonged to me before Kate even had a name for it. In fact, she gave it to me while it was still wet from the dyepot! She's very good to me, that Kate. I love her so.

Oh, and check out the gifts I won from listening to The Yarn Thing Podcast! These are from the Kara Gott Warner episode.

So special! These books are amazing and it is such a treat to win them! It's a wonderful life, I tell you! So much to be grateful for. I'm so glad to be sharing the journey with you!

In Between

2012-01-23T13:04:00.005-05:00

A little in between projects right now...
Finished up and gifted this dropped knit scarf in an art yarn I made when devoting myself to mothering THE SEVEN translated into me missing out on Pluckyfluff's Yarnival, a week of yarny goodness at the Boeger Winery in California. I decided I'd card up/ spin up my own yarn fest.

It was good to send this yarn out into the yarniverse. Especially because it adorns the neck of one of my beloved and favey fave friends. I smile every time I think of her and our twentysomething years of friendship.

I finished a yarn outside of my color "box." I took on a challenge at Rhinebeck to pick something outside of my color comfort zone and just see. So, I learned, after several months of wool languishing on my spinning wheel, that spinning for me needs to feed my creative spirit. And granny beige is still granny beige no matter how good someone else claims the combo will look with my eyes. Ok, I admit. It matches my hair color and eye color. Will I like it any better once I knit it up? I doubt it...

Do you like it any better in this shot?

Nah? Me neither:)

Was thinking maybe I could weave it and bring in some other colors. Now we're talkin.'

Speaking of weaving, my first project is off the loom and the second is in progress! I'll have pics for ya in a hundred years. Linda, if you're reading, the view at the beach is much more inspiring to weave to. But, I'm plugging away...eager to warp with some precious handspun. Maybe that's the ticket.

My spindled stash is growing little by little. I have a design in mind for all these minis. Hopefully, that won't fall into the "hundred year" pile of to-do's.

I finished another newborn gift. Handspun 3 ply in Spunky Eclectic Flannel. This is a quick crochet. Long-Tail Pom is the pattern. This has been my go-to baby gift lately. Quick and fun to make, most especially in a 3 ply. Oooh, this yarn was nice to work with. I made a cute pair of mitts to match.

That's it for Studio E these days. Be back in a few with some more FO's. Until then, I'm wishing you a world full of goodness and laughter and joy and friendship and love. Yes, lots of love.

Thank you, Linda

2012-01-17T21:36:00.004-05:00

I had the most amazing weekend away at the beach!

You were so very kind to think of me

My heart is so full of gratitude

You ladies are awesome!

Until we meet again...

Thank you, Linda

XOXO, Elizabeth

On Letting Go

2011-12-31T22:21:00.006-05:00

I've never been good at letting go. I can remember being four years old and realizing on New Year's Eve that the year was ending, that the decade was over in fact. The world was moving on and there was absolutely nothing I could do about it. I felt a little anxious in that moment. Someone should've just written the check for the therapy then, because I've had trouble letting go ever since. Heh.
I started cleansing after Thanksgiving this year. Out with the old, in with the new. I couldn't imagine bringing more stuff into our home in the form of holiday gifts without first taking a good look at what we were storing in this place we call home.
It was only fitting that I start with myself right?

Nothing like a green smoothie every day. It was time. I feel much better on a no refined sugar, no dairy, no wheat, no corn, no soy, no alcohol diet. What can I say? I am blessed to be a highly sensitive individual? With the help of an amazing holistic practitioner/ nutritionist I have discovered the right combination of nutrients to nourish my body. My Rhinebeck weekend got me off track in the most indulgent sort of way...fried artichoke anyone?
Whatever... I can't mess around anymore. I have serious reactions when I ingest these offenders.

So, next I attacked the clutter. I knew this was a big job, but I mistakenly thought some aspects would be easy. The kitchen, for instance; how hard would it be to open the cabinets where the cookbooks had been stored for years and simply put them in the donation bags? I mean, I had my favorite go-to cookbooks- Fannie Farmer, the Art of Simple Food, Nourishing Traditions. Well, I made the mistake of looking. I started reading recipes. I opened books and saw inscriptions from friends noting housewarming, or friendship, or whatever else now made me feel like I needed to hold onto that book. I am SO sentimental. I literally had to have an internal dialogue about
" hold onto the memory, toss the book." We've all heard these organizational experts coach the inner hoarder, right? Ok, so I let go of the housewarming cookbooks of 20 years ago. I kept The Silver Palate, but I digress.
Then I stumbled upon this one.

Baking With Julia. It made me feel all Julia and Julia. I wanted to go and put on my string of pearls. I mean, this is a book worth owning right? Right? Well, here's the deal. I'm an idealist. I'd like to bake with Julia. Heck, I'd LOVE to bake with Julia. But, the truth is, for as long as I've owned this book, I hadn't baked with Julia. I wasn't baking with Julia. I was never going to have the time to bake with Julia! Honey, by the time I even had time to bake with Julia, I'd be living in "the home." You know the one. the one where they bake for their elderly residents. Yes, that home. Where the residents aren't allowed to use the ovens. Good-bye, Julia.
By now I am mentally exhausted by the internal dialogue required to purge what no longer serves me. Good- bye all of you unused cookbooks. My family is just happy to have anything at all on the table each night.

So if the easy peasy to part with cookbooks have traumatized me, you can only imagine what the rest of the decluttering process is doing to me. I've procrastinated while coming to terms with some negative core beliefs. I'm ready to move on into 2012 unencumbered. I've been able to detach from what no longer serves me and find joy in the hope that it will now serve someone else. My soul mentor, Tara, recently tweeted that you're no longer alive in the past. Why spend so much time there? Amen, sister.

It's all a process, this letting go. I'm happy to share that I am actually excited to lift up 2011 and release it. I've released all that no longer serves me to make room for all the wonderful gifts 2012 has for my beautiful life. It's all a celebration.

Here's what's been happening in Studio E:
I finished a fun pair of handknit socks in my own design loosely based on David's Toe Up Sock Cookbook.

The sock yarn is Dragonfly Fiber Dragon Sock in the colorways "His Nose Like a Cherry" and "Mistletoe Kiss."

I finished my swap portion of hexipuffs for the Bohoknitterchic Hexipuff swap over on Ravelry.

Here they are all labeled, tagged and ready to go.

I crocheted a handspun long-tail pom for a brand new soul.

Isn't he precious? Major babylove.

As for the rest of my WIPs, I have some amazing natural colored merino wool on my Jenkins Lark. The rest of my spindles are beautifully wrapped in Phat Fiber samples. I have 13 yarns ready to ply!
I'm just finishing up a HUGE self striping roving I purchased from Loop at Rhinebeck. Shawl-bound, I think. More on that yarn in the next post.

As this year quickly draws to a close, I want my blog pals to know how very grateful I am for each of you. I treasure your friendship and I thank you for taking time to share this space with me. I have been touched by your presence here. Wishing you dreams come true in 2012. Abundant blessings to you, my friends. Happy New Year!

11.11.11

2011-11-11T20:37:00.013-05:00

Of course I would post today. I couldn't resist. Some things just can't wait 'til they come around again...

So many days, so full of joy- where do I even start? Let's see... there have been Elevensies parties:

and birthday parties:

#6 turned 8! I know!

#4 turned 14! Don't even get me started!

I ran a 5k. It was 34 degrees following a noreaster. 'Nuf said. You didn't really want to see that picture. Trust me.

For some reason, I keep receiving gifts and it's making my heart swell with gratitude and joy. I received an amazing package from Craftypuppylover. I won a gift certificate to her shop during Tour de Fleece. Coincidentally, the package arrived the same day as my Ebony spindle that dear Mr. Golding took in for repair at Rhinebeck. Gorgeous and brand new. Can you see it tucked in there? I couldn't wait to wrap one of Carrie's gorgeous mini batts around it! Carrie also sent some mini skeins for Hexipuffs. Yes, I've been bitten by the Hexi-bug. Knit my first one yesterday. One down, 383 hexipuffs to go. No problem.

I also won a blog giveaway from EmilyRossa Thank you, Emily! I've been so curious about this book, but have never bought it for myself. I was close once. I've been enjoying it so far. That's the latest Hello Yarn club fiber. The colorway is "Bristling." The fiber is Shetland.

I finished my Rhinebeck socks. Lol. Just in time for next year. David's Toe Up Sock Cookbook is the pattern I used. I really like this pattern. While I'm at it, I really like the author of this pattern:) Everyone knows David, right? The yarn is handspun Hello Yarn Sour Fig.

Here's the whole sock story:

Sock love.

I washed this gorgeous BFL fleece; a gift from Montana. Speechless.

I received an invitation to take part in Girl With a Hook's Batts for Headband Project over on Facebook. So I carded:

I also took Jacey up on her offer to send in a 4x4 swatch to add to a wall hanging in her studio for the filming of her upcoming Insubordiknit dvd. She's putting together an amazing piece comprised of swatches from everyone she's ever spun with. So, if that includes you, then join the project! Even if you've learned from her previous dvd,rather than in person, she'd still like you to be a part of it.

So, there ya have it. These are the joys that fill my days. Wishing you a joy-filled day, too. Enjoy your weekend!

Hello Craft Summit of Awesome

2011-10-24T22:39:00.001-04:00

On the heels of Rhinebeck, I took the Hello Craft Summit of Awesome plunge! How very fortunate I was that this amazing opportunity was held in the major city nearest me- Baltimore!

The venue was fantastic! The 1840's Ballroom made me want to get married all over again just to have the reception there. The lighting was not ideal for indoor photography, but hopefully I can share a glimpse of these cool diggs.
Upon arrival, we registered and then made our own name tags in the Make Something Awesome Area, which was open the whole time for our crafty pursuits.

The first session I attended was branding and Identity with Jeffery Everett. He spoke on logo design, brand, and how all of it ties together when marketing and growing a business.

Debbie Stoller and Laurie Henzel of Bust magazine were the Craftnote speakers and shared about how they started and maintained their DIY business for the past 18 years. Their story was interesting, inspiring and engaging. They followed up with a session on Shameless Self-Promotion, a talk well suited to the artists among us who just wanna make art!

Miranda Lievers led the next session on how to use light in product shots. This was quite informative and I was impressed by her tips for tweaking our technique ever so slightly for huge returns on our pictures. I found this session to be among my favorites.

My day wrapped up with a session called "Blogs, Books, and Magazines, Oh My!" led by Kate McKean, Lish Dorset, and Kari Chapin. Kate presented from a literary agent's point of view, Lish shared the blog writer's perspective while Kari shared her experiences as an author.
Her book The Handmade Marketplace was Amazon's #1selling craft book in 2010.

Day 2 highlights included an amazing talk by Caitlin Phillips of Rebound Books. She spoke about Craft fair booth set up and displays. Tina Seamonster offered some interesting insights on how every business has a story. Jay McCarroll of Project Runway Fame was the craftnote speaker on Day 2. Funny, authentic, and very personable. I wish him much luck in his future endeavors!

Danielle Maveal of Etsy spoke on Etsy success and offered one on one critques for Etsy Businesses. I enjoyed an interesting glimpse into the world of art galleries with Jaime Zollars and Diane Koss. There were so many opportunities for Indie crafters in these sessions. I attended one on email marketing with Amy Ellis.

Saturday offered sales talk, podcasting overviews, website tips and so much more. All Summit long there were opportunities to craft with letterpress, making sugar scrub, sewing tote bags, and making garland.

All in all, it was a wonderful experience! I met so many wonderful and inspiring Indie Crafters and my brain is full of information overload! I highly recommend this for everyone! Hope to see you at next year's Summit of Awesome!

Rhinebeck 2011

2011-10-19T07:29:00.001-04:00

Nice view from our hillside home in Rhinebeck. Beautiful sunrises over the mountains. I shared a cottage with 7 fabulous Ravelry friends. Face-hurting hilarity and laughter ensued.

The Sheep and Wool Festival was a blast. Always so fun to be inspired by vendors and fiber artists. The meet-ups are always good. Here's the Spunky/ Hello Yarn/ Southern Cross Fiber group.

Some other weekend highlight pics:

Amy(Boogie), Me, David

Erica(Weetsie) and John(Ironjohn04)

Dale(dirkhumblejunk) and Stacie(njstacie). Just Married!!!!
Check out the wedding dress she made in just 3 weeks. Love that she wore it again to the fest. Go, Stacie!

Too full of awesomeness to contain:)

Me, Tasha(nuttnbunny), Adrian(HelloYarn), John(ironjohn04), Stacie(njstacie), and Heather(Sparkcrafted)

Fleece hunters Tasha and Allie.

Kory(HarmlessDrudge)

Christina(miukat)and Kate(DragonflyFibers)

Mmmm LOOP. Lots of action in that booth this weekend. Everyone kept going back for more. Steph and Kate, my favey faves <3. After we broke down the booth, Steph treated us to an amazing sushi dinner, sleepover and breakfast before hitting the road. Thank you again, Stephanie!

Sarah of Sanguine Gryphon, Gale of Gale's Art, my new best friend(lol) KateyJ, and Kate(Dragonfly Fibers)

I learned an amazing lesson this weekend. I have a very giving heart. I used to think sometimes that is reciprocated and sometimes not. To give freely and purely, without expectation is the point. This is how I roll. Yet, over the past week, I have been absolutely, gobsmackingly fiber bombed with so much giving that it blows me away. I received this amazing package in the mail from a dear soul I met in Ravelry. It was HUGE and filled to the brim with individually wrapped packages, each with its own lovely ribbon and hand written note. Everything in my color sense, all from my wish list. Thank you, Jen<3!

Then on our road trip, Kate gifted me a Jenkins Turkish Delight that Ed himself had given her! It is simply the most beautiful thing.

She also gave me a bag of sock yarn for hexipuffs and a bag of fluff to end all fluff. This bag was HUGE!!! It was an industrial size trash bag overflowing with her amazingly prepared and dyed fleece. This girl has a gift for fleece prep like you've NEVER seen before. Here's a peek:

I seriously never need to buy fiber again!
Yet there was a more subtle soul nourishing that transpired this weekend. The little things some people may simply take for granted but meant the world to me. The sharing of John's harvest, libations from Dale and Stacie's ongoing wedding feast, amazingly prepared meals, someone always offering a coffee, taking a plate, refilling my wine glass, rides back and forth. So much heartfelt giving. It really filled me and made me realize that giving is probably always reciprocated but maybe in the most surprising ways. Maybe even by people you've never given to before. Perhaps that's the beauty of it. and that's what makes it pure. I dunno...but it was beautiful. Never really gave much thought to karma before, but I'm pretty sure I've just experienced it. Thank you, all<3.

Off the Needles

2011-10-12T22:52:00.001-04:00

Striped Study Shawl
Elsebeth Lavold Silky Wool

I really enjoyed this knit in a mindless knit kinda way. It's just that those rows and rows of garter stitch seem to be exponential. Just sayin.' Easy to get bored with this one. Would love to knit one for fall in charcoal and light gray. Just not this fall.

I also finished a handspun sweater for #7. Spun the yarn last fall from Hello Yarn's Peat colorway. Started the crochet in January on a trip to NYC. Babylove picked out his own buttons at Tender Buttons. Quite a number of city blocks we hiked for those little treasures. He exclaimed it was beautiful when I finished. Then promptly took it off.

I've finished a few smaller projects, too. I just realized I forgot to photograph the Chappy Newsboy Hat for a newborn. Just as soon as the little chap grows into it- have to have a shot for Ravelry. It was too cute. He looked like a little old man. Adorbs! This little hat below was a quick crochet for my neighbor's new baby, Owen.

Then this was a total knitter's ADD moment, cuz I knew I could whip it up in a Sunday afternoon. Needed a prototype for a workshop I'm teaching. It's The Bright Idea Scarf.

In the tradition of The New York Sheep and Wool Festival, I was hoping to have some kinda wow factor handspun garment to wear to Rhinebeck this weekend. Instead, I'm settling with the fact that it's all I can do just to get to Rhinebeck. A little like parting the Red Sea for me to step out of my life for a few days. This weekend promises to be a little over the top in the best kind of way. Such good company. What an amazing husband to encourage me to take an EXTRA day away. I was trying to figure out how to do Rhinebeck as quickly as possible for the least amount of impact on our family when he said, "I think you should take as MUCH time as possible!" So supportive of my life's work, so appreciative of how much energy it takes to raise our family, so genuinely giving, this man. Love my mister.

Oh, and one more crazy thing. I've been kickin' this book around. It's been around for a while. Wreck This Journal by Keri Smith is a creative adventure in pushing boundaries and stepping outside the box. The other day I discovered Wreck this Journal blogs and Flickr sets. It's a great concept. The whole idea is to express your creativity by way of creative destruction. Each page contains an exercise to encourage creative expression by letting go of perfectionist ideas that keep people from creating to begin with. I stumbled upon this Book years ago at the bookstore and thought it looked like fun. I've picked it up here and there over the years, but thought it might be fun to share the process with you. Go get your own copy and play along with me! You know you want to!

Traditions

2011-10-03T23:44:00.001-04:00

It's that time of year again. We've done it as a family for nearly twenty years. It amazes me to realize the duration of this family tradition. Nineteen or so years ago on a trip back from beautiful western Maryland, we stumbled upon a pick your own pumpkin place. The kids loved the hayride, the pumpkin picking, the apple cider tasting, the petting zoo. We stopped for dinner at this mom and pop restaurant out in the country with a covered wagon for a salad bar and a miniature train on permanent display to keep little kids entertained. We took home a loaf of frosted raisin bread and have returned to engage in this very same routine for nearly the last two decades. Our family has grown a lot since that first serendipitous visit to the pumpkin patch. The activities at the pumpkin patch have likewise grown and changed over the years. Today there are opportunities for scarecrow building, pony rides, face painting, and a moon bounce. Our four year old remembered the pumpkin patch and for days leading up to our family excursion he would count down to the big event. On Sunday, he literally woke up smiling and announcing that it was finally time to go to the pumpkin patch and jump in the pumpkin moon bounce.

That's one excited puppy! He could hardly contain himself!

Here's our fearless leader, aka, Captain Fun. I'm still loving those dimples after all these years;)

So #7, ever focused on his mission, got right down to the serious business of pumpkin picking,

while 3 of the girls worked it for the camera.

#1 and #4

#3 and #4

#5 hard at work

#6 planting a happy kiss on mama<3

Another fun day in the memory books.
Making memories is a beautiful thing.

Batt Happy

2011-09-02T17:12:00.005-04:00

Been in the carding mood lately. Cathy Z padded the Jenkins Turkish standard spindle I won during Tour de Fleece with some gorgeous hand dyed locks.

I was inspired to card these into a batt, but wanted to leave the locks intact for some textural interest in the finished yarn.

I spun up the batt yesterday and here's the pre-bath yarn.

Such happy colors!

I've been having myself quite a yarnival of my own here at home.

This

became this

50ish meters of corespun fun.

One of summer's best memories for me was playing Beach Blanket Bingo with the Lushmommy group over on Ravelry. I was having a very lucky afternoon. Crazy, I know, but I won 3 games.

I haven't laughed so hard in a long time. The competition was hysterical. Just between you and me, I kept telling my kids, "Mommy's working!" to buy a few more rounds of Bingo. Too much fun!! I had purchased some Lushmommy bamboo for carding and then won some as prizes, too.

Here's the gorgeous loot. These colors make my heart sing.

2.6 oz batt

The bamboo

Sara even included an extra which blew me away. This vendor is simply over the top generous and amazing.

I 've already carded that along with some bamboo into the Yarnival batt above.

I spun the Lushmommy batt this afternoon and here's the finished yarn.

Pretty productive day, eh? That's only 'cuz I told everyone I was taking the day off. It's been really great to putter around. I've worked on the border of my Striped Study shawl. You can see the beginnings of this shawl back in this post. It is literally taking me forever. I can only take a few long rows of garter stitch at one time before it bores me. I have enjoyed knitting this nonetheless. I've also been working on a handspun crochet cardigan for my little guy. Really need to wrap that one up. Soon, hopefully. There's a long weekend ahead, so maybe...just maybe!

Wishing everyone a nice long weekend to regenerate. You're beautiful and you deserve it!

My Town

2011-08-31T10:38:00.001-04:00

Saturday, it looked liked a ghost town around here when I went for my morning run. Except for a few die hard exercisers trying to squeeze in one last workout before Hurricane Irene came to town. I appreciated the calm before the storm. It was a great run. Up to 3 miles, I am:)
Here's a look at the still waters of Round Bay on the Severn.

But the other side of the peninsula was a whole 'nother story. Here's the Magothy.

I made it back just as the first few drops came down. Here's some other hurricane related shots from around town.

The gas and electric convoy trying to restore power. Still out all over town as of right now. Fortunately, our neighborhood has power again. So grateful! We had trucks from many other states here helping.

God bless them, still smiling after 14 hour days.

Next door
Next door to that

This was everywhere

Quite honestly, though, the flooding was minimal, and we were well prepared with supplies. The neighbors really rallied with cookouts, fire pits at night, and all around good cheer. Love that.

So, it's a new day! Off to throw some glitter in the air and run in some glorious sunshine. I've been taking my kids with me on the trail until schools get situated again. It just makes me smile sometimes when I see and experience their pure joy. It causes me to reflect on these beautiful little souls and wonder who am I that I get to be called "Mommy" seven times over. It makes my heart sing when I embrace all it means to have their 7 precious souls entrusted to me on this journey called life. It's a wonderful, wonderful life. Wishing you, too, the most beautiful of days!

Three Guesses

2011-08-25T19:53:00.002-04:00

Hickory Horned Devil Caterpillar a video by Eutrapalia on Flickr.

My neighbor and I were standing at the bus stop this morning when this fell out of a tree. It was bigger than a cigar. Have you ever seen such a thing?

Back to School

2011-08-23T20:24:00.001-04:00

Look at those first day of school faces! These two were so excited, I heard them up at 4 am saying they wanted to get up early. No, thank you to that! And no thank you to the 6:35 am high school bus coming at 6:30. Coming anytime before 7 for that matter!!

Then there was the small matter of the 5.9 earthquake. We of the east coast aren't accustomed to such things. Nothing like a little earthquake to shake things up on the first day. Literally.

There they go! I'm not sure I'll ever be used to someone driving away with my children. Especially after years of homeschooling. I'll never forget my 5 year old homeschooler saying, " Mommy, can you believe Miss Charlotte takes her kids to school? And leaves them there? Ha ha, kids are so funny.

Summer's End

2011-08-22T21:42:00.001-04:00

August has a way of redeeming itself. I've come to love it. Until a few years ago, I didn't really trust August. The way it hung over me all summer long, ready to pounce and steal summer away. The minute August reared it's head on the calendar, the proverbial countdown began. X number of days til school starts. Robbed me of my joy. But then I gave August a chance. One more book, one more project, 3 more weeks of days. And ya know what? By the end of August, I really was refreshed. I've come to appreciate the beauty of this month.

Here we are, the last day of summer vacation. Supplies labelled. Backpacks loaded and by the front door. First day of school clothes laid out. Stories read, kids in bed. The excitement in the air is right up there with Christmas Eve.

We just had to squeeze in one more summer afternoon at the pool. I love that late afternoon/early evening heat of summer. It's sunshine for my soul. So thanks be to August for it's cleansing and restoration. I've embraced every last second.

Can you believe my baby can swim like that? What a wee fish!!

On Purpose

2011-08-21T20:08:00.003-04:00

Today I started living ON PURPOSE. I awoke. I prayed. I chose joy. My beautiful husband sang to me and made me smile. He reminded me that I am beautiful and I can do anything. I've accomplished so much already. I ran. I ran 2 and 1/2 blissful miles. I took a hot bath. Followed by a hot stone massage. Liked it so much, I added a foot massage. I nourished with healthy food and healing teas. I immersed my spirit in some happy internet. I decided to take my focus off the goals and maybe, just maybe, focus on the process today. That's right, I scrumbled. And I loved it. There's so much beauty out there. In every moment there's gratitude waiting to be celebrated. Right now, it's pouring that green sky rain. Washing away the yuck of yestermoments. There's nothing like a good summer afternoon thunderstorm to remind myself that there's nowhere I need to be right now. Except right here, waiting for the rainbow:).

My Sillies

2011-08-11T08:56:00.001-04:00

The other day, I heard the front door open, so I stepped outside to check on my babyloves. This is what I found.

This just brought sunshine to my soul.

There is nothing I love more than a free spirit.

It's the beauty of childhood right there.

Yarn Parade

2011-07-26T17:38:00.002-04:00

I spun over a mile of yarn during the Tour de Fleece on Ravelry. I won some fun prizes, too!

Now, to get all of this organized, stashed on Rav, and put away...

Here's some morning run shots:

TDF2011/Finished yarns

2011-07-26T00:02:00.003-04:00

TDF2011/Finished yarns, a set on Flickr.

It's a wrap...
1608 meters of yarn spun plus what's still yet to be plied.
That's 1758 yards. 2 yards short of a mile, folks. OVER a mile of spinning, counting the singles spun, just awaiting plying.
A lot o' yarn. A lot o' fun. A lot o' lessons learned and friends made.
There is literally yarn everywhere. Check out Flickr to see the complete set.

TDF2011::23

2011-07-24T23:56:00.000-04:00

Last but not least.
Today was spent spindling the last of my June Phat fiber samples to complete one of my TDF goals. I also finished a headband with some TDF yarn for a category in the Ravelry group Bohoknitterchic Spins. Tomorrow I hope to do a wrap up and enter some yarn for the TDF contests. Although I've enthusiastically cheered during the last two TDFs, this is the first time I really embraced the experience from goal setting to finishing, and photo documenting every step of the way.
Truly memorable.

TDF2011::22

2011-07-23T23:55:00.001-04:00

WC Mercantile Phat fiber Sample from July 2011 Art Nouveau box auto wrapped with black metallic.

Bohoknitterchic Harry Potter /Rita Skeeter batt auto wrapped with green metallic.

Busy wrapping up loose ends here. This has been an amazing challenge and I've really enjoyed it. And now, I think I see some Nuno felting in my future...

TDF2011::21 Challenge Day

2011-07-22T23:45:00.001-04:00

I've really been looking forward to the Challenge Day. I had some Jacob I carded for a Picto Create entry on Ravelry. The image was "Typists." It was a striking black and white image that inspired 3 yarns. My challenge was to complete my entry by tailspinning the Jacob with mohair locks. I was inspired to try auto wrapping after finishing my tailspin, so I began an auto wrapped yarn. Wish I had red metallic thread, but settled for black as I was down to the wire after a 9 hour car ride home from vacation.

On the ride home I spun my first beaded fiber from Shetibo. Incredible fiber prep. I enjoyed this so much on the borrowed Jenkins spindle. I also finished the Spotted Circus Alien Slime singles, as well as New Hue Handspun Bam Huey in baby blue. It was a great Challenge Day. I am so happy I tried some new techniques!

It was a happy mail day as well. My July Art Nouveau Phat fiber box arrived while I was away. I also received a Rita Skeeter batt from Bohoknitterchic. Woot! There might have been a few more things in the mail, but let's you and me just keep that on the down-low, k?

TDF2011::20

2011-07-21T21:00:00.000-04:00

Hello Yarn Minerals/coils

Spent all day in the sun with my wheel on the deck while the kids swam in the lake.

This is from a Loop club batt. I did a thread ply using some vintage french thread with cool little gray puffs.

This one just had a mind of it's own. It would just not cooperate. Knitifacts Llama/Camel/Silk.
I accomplished a lot today, which is good, because I will lose 8+ hours tomorrow driving. Then there's the great unpack and subsequent laundry Olympics. Final TDF weekend!!! It's been a great ride.

Morning Runs

2011-07-20T23:07:00.001-04:00

I've gotten back into running lately. Me run??? The only thing I run is laundry, right? And kids. I run kids around like nobody's business. I used to be a runner in high school and college, but the baby years have taken their toll. I do think I run a marathon in my head every day but that's beside the point. Surely I run marathons up and down the stairs, don't I? Sure seems like it.
Truth is, when I started a few weeks ago, I needed every second of those 90 seconds to recover from the 60 seconds of running. Heck, I still need to walk/jog my morning runs. But that's not the point. The point is, for me running is so seductive. It always has been. It's like time stands still on a run. Literally, in the beginning it did. As in, time is not moving. This exercise may never come to an end. There will probably always be moments like those. But the ones that get me are the moments of pure undisturbed peace. I can hear the summer sounds. Oh, how I love those summer sounds-cicadas, crickets, chirping birds. It's the only time I can take a deep breath and breathe in summer. You know how I am about summer. I wish I could lasso it and hold fast. I kinda sorta feel like I can do this when I'm out for a run. I can take it all in. Uninterrupted.
It's been a year since my last 5k and honestly I was in better shape this time last year. I'd love to set a goal for another 5k, maybe sometime in the fall. I only put it out there to help keep myself accountable. Anything can happen between now and then and I realize this. In the meantime, I am sure enjoying the baby steps. I see the world with fresh eyes and hope to share with you some views from my morning runs. The pic above is the B&A Trail from 7/16/11.
Here's a couple from this morning:

These are from a country road in Massachusetts. The roads wind around gorgeous lakes. There is so much beauty out there. I'm so very grateful to have the opportunity to take it all in.

TDF2011::19

2011-07-20T21:58:00.001-04:00

2nd time around~ Hello Yarn Sour Fig nply. Now I have 8 ounces completed for some knock yer socks off socks. Knee highs maybe? I dunno. Thinking I'll knit toe up, two at a time 'til I run out. Just a thought. I will never get enough of this colorway. For sure.

Also spun this up today.

It's all kinds of fanciful. camel, silk, and some other exotic fibers. It's a Cream Puff by Knitifacts gifted to me by Kate last summer. I thought it only proper to spin this on the Jenkins she has loaned me. Oddly, it does not wish to be spun as fine as I envision it. I switched to my very fast flyer. I've learned not to drink beer and spin lace while my precious littles are out tubing on the lake. Waaay too many things needing my attention. Even though another adult was in charge and yet another adult present, they're still my littles and it was their first time. So fun to watch. Hope to get the Cream Puff singles plied tomorrow, cuz I'm running out of time to meet my totally unrealistic but I'm trying anyway goals. The "Ring of Fire" is supposed to hit tomorrow and this ol' cottage has no air conditioning. With 100 degree temps, wool just might have to step aside.

TDF2011::18

2011-07-19T22:01:00.001-04:00

Just making lemonade with the lemons I get from my iPhone pics and mobile uploads.
Today's spin:
Hello Yarn Sour Fig (2nd 4 oz.) in the n ply stage
Hello Yarn Minerals thick and thin singles awaiting a thrill ride when plied.
So hard to get anything done while on vacation. Gonna need a vacation after the vacation.

TDF2011::17

2011-07-18T21:46:00.001-04:00

It's a TDF rest day, so I spent time working on this shawl with yarn spun during the tour. It's been challenging without the convenient upload from my Camera to my computer, but at least I've got mobile uploads to share. Just a few more days of TDF!

TDF2011::16

2011-07-17T21:38:00.000-04:00

Not much spinning today except for a wee bit of time with a spindle. Spent the day driving to my family's lake house.
Here's a pic of a few of the littles. It's a beautiful spot. Peaceful, charming. Time just might stand still this week.

TDF2011::15

2011-07-16T21:29:00.000-04:00

Hello Yarn June '11 Club
Overfond with metallic thread ply

TDF2100::14

2011-07-15T23:31:00.000-04:00

Hello Yarn Sour Fig 4 oz. singles ready for n ply
Spunky Eclectic Ribbons jumbo spun and candy striped with black metallic. 1.5 wpi. Like an umbilical cord, of which I've seen exactly 7!
Spunky Eclectic Flannel/Targhee 3 ply
Spotted Circus Alien Slime from June Sci-Fi Phat Fiber

TDF 2011::13

2011-07-14T23:59:00.000-04:00

Spunky Eclectic Flannel

Ever have one of those days when you just can't seem to get it together? Yeah, that was me today. But I will say, somehow I heard the call "Mommy!" in a whole new light this morning. I was out for a run with my little guys when #7 turned to me on his scooter and called my name. I heard it fresh, with renewed joy and marveled at the realization once again that this was my child. This was motherhood. This was my life and it was precious.

TDF2011::12

2011-07-13T21:58:00.001-04:00

Broken flyer repaired and back in the game. Huzzah!

Spin Up Girl-Grim Lynn
Craftypuppylover-Waldorf Salad
Spunky Eclectic-Flannel
Loop babycake

TDF2011::11

2011-07-12T22:28:00.001-04:00

Oy. A broken jumbo flyer. Two guilty little boys.
Here's hoping the Gorilla glue sticks.
So, for today, I had to set aside my art yarn plans and switch to my fast flyer and some spindles. Here's what went down:

~Broke into my 2nd dose of Hello Yarn Sour Fig. 1/3 down. 2/3 and nply to go.
~finished spinning a Loop babycake
~started Spin up Girl Grim Lynn from June Phat Fiber Sampler

TDF2011::10

2011-07-11T22:39:00.001-04:00

A little knitting with some TDF yarns. Oh, happy day.

TDF2011::09

2011-07-10T23:38:00.002-04:00

~finished Twisted Sun Soylent green inspired fiber- spun on Jenkins Turkish Delight, nply
~started Loop baby cake on my Grafton spindle
~Corespun Hello Yarn Troublemaker
~ and...oh, happy day! Sock yarn!!! Hello Yarn Sour Fig n ply.
Hot diggity.

TDF2011:08

2011-07-09T23:54:00.001-04:00

~Started Hello Yarn BFL corespun
~Met the fabu nuttnbunny
~ Keepin' on with the Twisted Sun Soylent Green inspired fiber on the Jenkins

Not a lot of spinnin' going on today, but definitely a lot of livin' and givin' and lovin.' First things first.

TDF2011::07

2011-07-08T22:00:00.000-04:00

Shetibo/ Peppercorns n ply from May'11 Phat Fiber
Hello Yarn/ Sour Fig singles ready for n ply
Twisted Sun/ Soylent Green from June '11 Phat Fiber

TDF2011:06

2011-07-07T22:33:00.001-04:00

Shetibo nply/spindle spun
Felting Sunshine nply spindle spun
Hello Yarn/ Sour Fig- about 2 oz spun 36 wpi- ish for sock yarn, methinks.
Next up on the Turkish: Shetibo Peppercorns

TDF2011::05

2011-07-06T23:24:00.001-04:00

Hello Yarn/ Garland-coils
Shetibo singles ready for n ply
Felting Sunshine/ Avatar Blend on Spinatude spindle from June Phat Fiber sampler

TDF2011:04

2011-07-05T22:25:00.001-04:00

In Progress:
Hello Yarn/ Garland spun thick and thin, thread plying for coils
Shetibo/A Birthday Cake for Etsy spun on Jenkins Turkish Delight

TDF2011::03

2011-07-04T23:01:00.001-04:00

Loop Clouds/Mediterranean corespun jumbo bobbin
Natchwoolie Mad Max Art Batt sample from June '11 Phatfiber -n ply
Giffordables Over the Rainbow Lincoln sample from June '11 Phatfiber -n ply

TDF 2011::02

2011-07-03T23:02:00.001-04:00

~Fatcatknits BFL "Lucky" thick and thin single thread plied with green metallic
~A special gift from David of Southern Cross Fibre - his version of Hello Yarn's "Peat"/ 2 ply bulky
~ "Metropolis" by Desert Garden Farms from Phatfiber June Sci- Fi box/spindle spun on Jenkins Delight, nply on Golding Ring Spindle.
~Natchwoolie Mad Max Art Batt sample from June Phat fiber Sci -Fi/ Jenkins Delight

Please Do NOT Stop By Unannounced!

2011-07-03T11:10:00.001-04:00

'Cuz it's Tour de Fleece 2011, don'tcha know. I will not be prepared for your visit. My house will not be tidy nor clean. I may not have a stocked cupboard. This is because I have set completely ridiculous and unpractical goals for spinning for the next 3 weeks. However, in my defense, I could not help myself. Stash diving just yielded beauty after beauty. How could I choose?

Right?
Then these arrived in the mail.

In case you are wondering, that last one is Waldorf Salad by Craftypuppylover.

So, yeah. I am deep in fiber. I've emptied a gazillion bobbins. I've prepped. There's been carding.

Combing

The annual making of the Rav badge.

I may have joined too many teams this year.
~Just sayin'~

Nevertheless, Day 1:

from my combing and carding, with a little from a Wild Hare Fiber Studios batt, a thick and thin single.

A gift of a Hello Yarn colorway "Peat," dyed by David of Southern Cross Fibers and gifted to me so I could finish crocheting a sweater for my babylove. Spun woolen, outside my comfort zone, for a 2- ply. Thank you again, David!

Metropolis by Desert Garden Farms from my June Phat Fiber box/Sci- Fi theme. Will n-ply this one. Hopefully on day 2.

Then this arrived in the mail.

It's irresistibly cute, a Birthday Cupcake for Etsy, from Shetibo. She ever so sweetly included some hand combed, beaded fiber to spin. I just think she's so cute. Please everyone, order something from her. Thank you, Jess!

Ok, so I hope to post often during the Tour, especially with the new Blogsy feature on my iPad. But ya know, every second not spinning is a moment not spinning. It Is a race after all! Here's to TdF 2011. So much fun!

Oh, and please call first:)

Spinning in the Sunshine of June

2011-06-30T09:57:00.000-04:00

I love summer. It's definitely my favorite time of year. I have to consciously savor every moment of it, because it slips by so elusively if I am not paying attention. Summer affords me the time to spin with reckless abandon. I've been cranking out the yarn.

I received an amazing Phat Fiber box for June. The theme was Sci-Fi. I love the spindle shot.

I took an amazingly memorable trip to the Midwest for my godson's wedding. I had the time of my life. Check out the beautiful country. Dark black soil in contrast to my familiar sandy soil. So quiet. No traffic on these country roads. So different from my bustling Washington, DC suburb. Just beautiful.

I love this place. My grandpa's house, home of so many precious childhood memories.

I spied this in the dusty garage window. It's the sign that used to hang in front of Grandma and Grandpa's country store. As children, we had free run of the place and it's old fashioned candy counter, ice cream case and soda machine. We were allowed to take whatever we wanted. We took full advantage in the way only little kids can fully experience. I brought this sign home with me. It brings me joy every time I look at it.

Life is very simple there. I love it.

In other summer kick-off news, # 5 celebrated her first double digit birthday.

In the tradition of summer, I did it. Yes, I did. BUZZZZZZZZZZZ!!!! I am still surprised every time I catch a glimpse of these precious best friend brothers. It's shocking, really. Makes me smile; so funny looking:)

Happy Summer!

A Weekend to Remember

2011-05-31T18:05:00.004-04:00

I kinda wish this past weekend would have never ended. I loved every minute of it. I spent Thursday and Friday at The Hotel Monaco with my husband extraordinaire. Such a great guy and a great gift giver! It's a charming and eclectic hotel just outside D.C. We had lunch here at The Charthouse overlooking the Potomac.

After lunch, we had a little artist's date at The Torpedo Factory . It was so inspiring to watch the artists in their studios. I'm intrigued by all of the different mediums. The gallery had an exhibit called Baa-merica which was right up my alley. All the sheep were crocheted using mixed media and modeled after pop icons. No photography was allowed. It was quirky and fun.

We strolled the streets of Old Town Alexandria in the way that parents of 7 without any of them present would do. It's a beautiful city, very similar to my native Annapolis.

Seriously old fashioned, this place.

Wouldn't you love to have drinks on this charming rooftop deck?

I had drinks on this one instead.

We took a water taxi on the Potomac over to the National Harbor.

That's the Woodrow Wilson Bridge joining Maryland to Virginia. You can see the Washington Monument and the Capitol building from this bridge.

Check out this sculpture in the sand. Do you see the little girl for scale? Very cool.

I returned home to all my little loves and found they had made this sweet birthday cake for me.

How cute is that? Foil knitting needles.....

Here's some happy faces with candy and the biggest gumball I have ever seen.

Someone lost another tooth!

Good thing it fell out before he rotted them with all of this candy!!!

I have been waiting for a big chunk of time to learn to weave. I've had a lot of starts and stops since getting my loom, so I am still amazed that I got this thing warped. I did it!

Tying onto the back beam

Direct Warping

Pulling warp through the slots

Tying warp threads onto the cloth beam

Woohooo!!!

Last, but not least

Winding the weft yarn onto the stick shuttle

I found the best tutorial for warping a rigid heddle loom by jenonthefarm on ebay.

Just for fun,and just in case this post is not quite long enough, here are a few yarns I finished this weekend and last.

What a great birthday week. My Irish twin would agree. "It's a wonderful life" indeed.

Sunday Comics

2011-05-29T22:56:00.006-04:00

I keep a special journal for each of my 7 children. I write them love letters on birthdays and other special occasions. I took out #7's journal to write him a letter for his 4th birthday. I had written down his reaction to waking up and realizing it was his birthday last year:
"Happy Birthday!" I greeted him. Feeling grouchy, he replied, "Huh, I NOT having it! Humph, humph, humph." Funny little crankster!

one helluva gumball

Hot Pink and Orange

2011-05-18T19:28:00.003-04:00

I'm smitten with hot pink and orange these days. The evidence:

It may have started with this luxurious gift of merino/silk from Dragonfly Fibers. I spun it as a fine lace 2 ply to crochet into a shawl of whatever design I fancied up in my head. I'm diggin' it so far. Every time I pick up a hook, I am so grateful to the crochet goddesses who taught me. You know who you are:) and I just love you!

The love affair with the pink and orange continues. I think my heart skipped a beat at the sight of some Corriedale that Kate had dyed in this color family.

I've been on a spindle kick and I literally wound off what was on my favey fave Greensleeves Black Ebony and grabbed a handful of the Corrie and spun. Just like that. No prep, nothing. It was the nicest spin ever. So smooth. I still cannot believe how it drafted. I never quite understood the mad love Kate had with this vendor, but now I do. I will be visiting this Corriedale vendor next year at MDSW for sure! I only had a handful of this amazing stuff, but knowing what I did not yet know about this fiber, Kate stuffed another handful in my hand as I was walking out the door. She's just amazing like that. And generous with the fiber love. Speaking of fiber love, here's a must have colorway.

Dragonfly Fibers Redbud Dragon Sock, which coincided with this Summer Mystery Shawlette. You know what happened next.

Babylove

2011-05-15T21:51:00.003-04:00

Babylove is not a baby anymore. Today he turned 4. Why is the passage of time so hard for a mama to believe? Apparently, he couldn't believe it either, because he would exclaim to anyone who would listen,"I can't baweeve (believe) I'm four!"

I'm so appreciative of every little moment together. So much fun in our future, little buddy! Happy Birthday to you!

You are so loved!

Sunday Comics

2011-05-15T21:40:00.002-04:00

"Well, I'm definitely gonna need my own car when I turn 16," he announced,
" 'cuz you and Dad are gonna be like 90 or somethin'." He cracked himself up.

So This is Wednesday

2011-05-11T22:14:00.000-04:00

"So, this is Wednesday," he realized.
Wednesday=Special Time.

The Big Weekend

2011-05-09T22:19:00.002-04:00

You know the one. The annual Maryland Sheep and Wool Festival. Such a gorgeous weekend spent with good friends from all over the country. I had quite the haul. Maybe celebrating Mother's Day as well as my birthday this month left me feeling entitled? MDSW to yarnies is like the dollar store for little kids. Only it's more like the $100 store. Make that the $500 store.

Why am I still buying one of these every year? It all started years ago with a bunch of us each buying one and calling them our SPIRIT mugs. Just the right mug. You know the one. Naturally, my Littles broke mine before year's end, so I replaced it. but I have continued buying one every year. I think I'm over it now:)
I also bought a lovely shawl pin for a Citron gifted to me by a new friend. Here's the shawl:

Here's the pin:

Oh, did I say pin? I meant pins.

Here's a pin before the shawl.

I bought some tools for my weaving and felting, books, yarn and other fun things as well. But, here's where the memories were made:

Steph and Kate

Lexi and I

Steph of Loop

Kate and I

Kate and Lexi

Lexi

Steph and I

Christina and Donna

Hotel Spin-in/Swap

I had such a fun time and met some great new people. I came away so inspired. I'll keep ya posted on my projects. Spin on, sistas.

Random

2011-05-09T22:09:00.000-04:00

Today I discovered someone's spelling homework done on the back window of my car. Ironically, the first word on his list was " shouldn't."

Really? Who DOES that?
PS. Would you believe I just had my car washed less than a week ago?
Aaah-chooooo!

Sunday Comics(Continued)

2011-05-09T21:27:00.000-04:00

Maybe this needs to be a regular column. Funny things have been happening on Sundays lately. The most endearing thing happened this morning. I purchased a mug from my favorite potter at the Maryland Sheep and Wool festival yesterday. It was late when I arrived home from dinner and an after party. So, I just filled the mug with soap and a little water and left it beside the sink.
Mother's Day is a time for spoiling Mommy, right? Backwards cards with coupons like " this coupon is good for... to go to the movies with me." So cute. Clever way to get a movie outta mom ;) And wouldn't it be great to surprise Mommy with coffee in bed in her new mug? Daddy went out and bought Mommy a special coffee and #6 wanted to make it extra special by pouring it into the new mug. After spilling at least 1/2 in the pour and 1/4 on the stairs, hallway, and bedroom carpet, one proud little boy arrived at my bedside with yes...soap coffee. He was so delighted with himself. I could only smile, even as I pretreated and scrubbed no less than 30 coffee stains on the coffee trail back down to the kitchen. My breakfast-in-bed-out-of-bed-back-in-bed was so sweet. But just between us friends, the only thing worse than soap coffee is cold soap coffee. Oh, how I adore my little people.

Spring Flings and Other Things

2011-05-02T13:54:00.000-04:00

Our kids' elementary school held their Spring Fair this weekend. So many happy memories from my own childhood school fairs. I vividly remember the ping pong balls in the goldfish bowls, and lemons with peppermint sticks.

There was face painting.

Games.

The most amazing Diva DJ I have ever heard rocked the school yard. The kids had a blast line dancing.

Guess who entered the American Idol Contest?

Who knew he could sing? He had many adoring fans after his surprise performance. Secretly, I LOVED it!

A lollipop tree! Heaven on earth. At least my little guy thought so.

How much joy can a day hold? This was crazy fun. So thankful for this day. And these kids.

In other news, we just returned from Spring Break in Surfside Beach. So beautiful. Myrtle Beach has a gorgeous boardwalk. We took a day trip to my fave city, Charleston. How beautiful is this city?

Can't visit Charleston without hanging out at Knit on Wentworth. Such a charming shop! Like the mouse who ate a cookie, I can't visit Knit without making a purchase! I bought some Elsebeth Lavold silky wool and cast on for the Striped Study Shawl. Perfect vacation knitting. Speaking of knitting, I should post about some knitterly things. Stay tuned!

Sunday Comics

2011-05-01T13:25:00.000-04:00

Somebody swallowed a tooth. Should they get extra $$$ from the tooth fairy for that? Yeah, didn't think so.

So, the little boys decided to play some baseball this morning. Big brother was oh so endearing in his explanation of the basic skills required. For example, pitchers gotta get their game face on.

The game pretty much went like this:

Oops, the ol' ball between the legs problem. Some other highlights of preschool players included the ball under the neighbor's car, which is infinitely better than the ball through the neighbor's windshield.

Don'tcha worry, I was right there helping him get the ball out and we discussed the dangers here. Then we had a little sliding into home plate with our new jeans on. You know the ones. Pretty much the only jeans without holes in them. Yet.

Why are little boys' jeans made like disposables, I ask you? Seriously.

Baseball morphed into football on asphalt in the way only little boys can make something happen.

And finally, this is what baseball with a 3 year old looks like when it's someone else's turn.

What's going on in your Sunday that is making you smile?

1.11.11

2011-01-11T19:38:00.000-05:00

Some spinning going on. Finished some Spunky Eclectic Corriedale n-ply. Have a design idea floating around my head. Would love to actually crochet it. Hoping to get started on that soon.

Cool, huh?

I have a ton of Hello Yarn Cauldron in Polwarth that's on the wheel now. Hoping to have it all spun by February 1st. Here's some progress pics:

Going for a worsted weight to crochet this. Love the funky retro. But first, I am loving Dragonfly Fibers BFL worsted I'm using in a sweater knit-a-long in the Dragonfly Fibers group on Ravelry. I'm knitting Cassis in the Titania colorway. Here's a stash pic:

I just love moments like this

Oh, and hey!!!!! Keep your eyes open for a possible Camp Pluckyfluff here in the Annapolis/Baltimore/DC area in summer 2011!!! You can pm me on Ravelry for more info, or check out Pluckyfluff for updates. Can't wait to get THAT party started!

Gratitude

2010-12-30T19:29:00.000-05:00

Faith.Family.Friends. Health.Love. So much love. Yarn. There's no such thing as too much yarn. Babyloves. No such thing as too many of them either! They grow too fast, but we'll take it. Gracefully. Because despite all of the tumultuous moments of childhood, there is the laughter. Always the laughter. Like when you go to tuck them in at night but you find one already fast asleep in a laundry basket instead of his bed.

Why do they do things like this? I dunno, but it's so darn funny. And I'm relieved to know that not ALL of the laundry baskets are full of dirty laundry. It's a good thing, then, when at least one is available for sleeping.

Goodness. So much goodness this year. So many special family moments.

We experienced joy-filled days of record snowfalls, sporting events, birthdays, anniversaries, big changes, ear-piercing, vacations, fiber fests, friendships, first dances, new chances, a little blogging, a lot of spinning, knitting, and crocheting. 2010 has been a wonderful year. All the best to you in 2011.

I Love Summer

2010-07-04T22:02:00.000-04:00

No, really. I love summer. It's my favorite season. I love everything about it. The warm and sunny days, the afternoon thunderstorms, the summer sounds. Oh, how I adore the summer sounds. This week has been exceptionally beautiful in the Mid-Atlantic. No matter how hard I tried to drink it all in, I just couldn't. I just want time to stand still. Do you know what I mean when I say that I feel like the kids have not yet even been out of school a full two weeks and it's already the 4th, which means next week is mid-July, and suddenly it's August? As you know, with August comes the countdown until school starts. Please no one tell me how many days(or weeks) are left until school starts. I just want to savor every precious second of summer. I'm so grateful for every little minute.

Check out my babylove. Captain of the Naughty Boys. I know you don't believe me, because he has the sweetest little face. I've posted many of the funny things he does, but yesterday he really cracked me up. He's a big kid now, ya know. No more diapers for him. Can you believe I have potty trained SEVEN human beings? I can't even believe that. He was the quickest. We had a potty party a few months ago and that was that. Who knew partying in a decorated bathroom was the way to go? Anyway, so back to yesterday...He came downstairs announcing that he went potty and didn't need any help. No siree, he took care of everything. Well, not exactly, but that's beside the gross point. When I went upstairs, I found a used one of these on the bathroom floor.

Apparently, he had the added benefit of a little exfoliation with that one. You see, these are dual action wipes. One side for scrubbing, one for wiping. lol.

Not those wipes, dude.

Did Ya Know?

2010-04-26T21:26:00.000-04:00

It's Knit and Crochet Blog Week! Who Knew? Yeah, so what's your story? When did you learn to knit/crochet?
I wanted to learn to knit years ago. I dunno, maybe around 2000. I asked my friend Kathleen to teach me. Yup, this chica can do anything. She had already started her love affair with knitting. I went to my LYS, picked up a Debbie Bliss book and yarn. So, we got together over a cuppa.
She started me on my first ever sweater. I loved the idea of knitting, but had no idea what I was doing, really. Then I had something like a hundred kids right in a row and never finished the sweater. But my girl, Kathleen, finished it for me. About half of my kids have worn this baby sweater. That was the end of my knitting career.
Then in 2007, I had a some really serious asthma during pregnancy. I was hospitalized, put on bedrest, with nothing to do while EVERYTHING needed to get done. Ugh, the frustration!! My husband suggested I go back to knitting. Maybe make a little something for the baby. Ha, I bet at the time he thought that suggestion seemed harmless enough! Little did he know!! So yeah, I took him up on the offer and taught myself how to knit by making a simple baby blanket. It was a perfect way to connect with this little being who had changed my life so drastically. It was very calming. When the blanket was finished I took on one harder project every time I cast on, until I became proficient. But one thing led to another until I was spinning, dyeing, crocheting, weaving and falling in luv with some of the most amazing artists who have become the best friends of my life! So that's my story. Would love to hear yours! If you'd like to read more just google "knitcroblo" followed by a 1, 2, etc. for each day of the event. What's your story?

Galleri Zink

2010-02-25T23:06:00.000-05:00

This handspun is on it's way to be a part of Pluckyfluff's Handspun Art Show in Lillehammer. What a fun opportunity! I chose this yarn because it was the epitome of what spinning means to me. It was spun in the company of my closest spinning friends, uncarded handfuls of beautiful fiber randomly spun as a single. I have such fond memories when I hold this yarn. It makes me feel so grateful for friends like you! Good times, this yarn.

I finished my Debbie Bliss Bolero Jacket yesterday. So cosy in Cashmerino chunky. Not my first choice for yarn, but what can I say...I was impatient so I went with what was readily available. My daughter has already asked to borrow it! Um, no. Mine. All mine. Mine,mine,mine,mine, mine. That's the toddler creed, yes? I know that well. Speaking of toddlers, nothing is sacred. Even the spirit mug. Yeah, that mug.

I've finished a few yarns lately. This one is corespun from LOOP clouds.

Oh, one more thing. Hey, friend....this is for you. I know you've been waiting patiently.

Hope you like it :)

Time Out

2010-02-07T11:54:00.001-05:00

Stealthy, this one. Like an animal hunting his prey, he waits for his moment...then pounces on the opportunity. It's almost like a race to see how much destruction he can manifest in that single moment before I catch him. Today, it was my newly upholstered chair that needed that special finishing touch that only this toddler could offer.

But why stop there, when the world is your canvas? Why not go for the table as well? Denial? Hardly. The evidence is all there.

But in his defense, how else is he to entertain himself when the snow outside is nearly up to his face?

Addicted

2010-01-29T22:06:00.000-05:00

...to crochet. Such instant gratification! Whipped this up last night. This chunky yarn naturally spun itself as a thick and thin single.

It is from a LOOP batt called Tweedledum. I'm forever in search of the spirit beanie...you know, the perfect hat that just works. It's a challenge with what my husband lovingly refers to as my "GI Joe lifelike hair." Beanies are so cute when you've got the right cut for one. But it's tough when no hair shows. I dunno, I'm kinda diggin' this one. It reminds me of good friends and good times.

Marshmallow Tree

2010-01-27T12:08:00.001-05:00

No, Mommy, I did not put marshmallows in your tree. I wasn't the one who stuck the bologna on the front door either.

But I did dress my own self.

2010

2010-01-01T19:53:00.000-05:00

A new day. A new month. A new year. A new decade. A whole lot of possibility. Happy New Year, friends!

If I Had Been Blogging

2009-12-31T22:49:00.000-05:00

This is what I would've shared, had I been blogging. Let's see, I spun up some chunky yarn in Hello Yarn Patchwork to crochet a tam. Added a trim from Camp Pluckyfluff DC.

Ended up with this wild mop of a thing.

I introduced #4 to the spinning wheel.

She's been spindling for a yearish so she worked the wheel like a pro. She gifted her first wheel spun yarn to her little sis for Christmas. She also just knit herself a pair of fingerless mitts. I love to see my kids spinning and knitting. Speaking of Those Mitts, I knit a few sets for gifting this Christmas.

Did you notice my new spinning apron? Perfectly constructed, this was a gift from Mia. I really love this. Happy hot pink, yes? This is really cool and keeps all the fluff off of my clothes.

Can you believe it's the end of another decade? Happy New Year!

Whatta Weekend!

2009-10-27T08:34:00.000-04:00

Oh, so much fun! It was so great to meetup with my peeps at Loop's grand opening. Her studio space is honkin' ! Steph is doing so many cool things. Run, don't walk! Get on her mailing list so you can see what she is offering. Workshops, spin-ins, custom fiber...ohmygosh, it was a candy shop of fiberlove.

We carded

We spun

We made custom clouds (This is my custom colorway! Woot!)

We felted

That was just the beginning. It was the moments when the cameras were off that meant the most. Just a bunch of silly girls from all over the world, back together again. No hubbies, no kids, no worries. Big 'ol slumber party. Oh, the love.

That we actually made it to Rhinebeck was nothing short of a miracle. How long it took? That's beside the point. We made up for it once inside the festival.

Steph failed to convince me that this was my spirit beanie. A++ for trying though!

Yay for the Spunky meet-up

The town of Rhinebeck and the festival grounds were just beautiful.

It was hard to say good-bye, but heartwarming to arrive home.

Oh, to be loved.....

Rhinebeck!!!

2009-10-12T11:00:00.000-04:00

I know, I can't believe it! I'm heading up to New York to celebrate the grand opening of Loop's new studio. Here's teh scoop:

When: Friday, October 16th at 6:00 p.m. Where: Loop at the GAGA Arts Center Building #8 Garnerville NY RSVP: loopfiberstudio@gmail.com

But that's not all! I've parted the Red Sea and have made arrangements for my babyloves so I can have another girls' weekend with Steph, Lexi, and Carissa for some more woolfesting at Rhinebeck. Loop, Pluckyfluff, Rhinebeck? Oh, my, my.

Really?

2009-10-11T04:41:00.000-04:00

...because I needed a 3rd sock wip on the needles.
Through the Loops Mystery Sock Knitalong for Socktoberfest.
Callias in Eidos by The Sanguine Gryphon.

No White Bread

2009-10-11T02:44:00.000-04:00

Fun times in D.C. last weekend with the Crafty Bastards Art Festival. Such an interesting demographic, this city of ours... I adore the melting pot of people in D.C.

As we watched the breakdancing competition, I was struck by the sea of interesting faces in the audience. "No white bread," my friend commented. Indeed. White, African American, Hispanic, probably just about every nationality you can imagine of artistic funk. Style on, D.C.

Tons of vendors, demos, hands-on projects.

Tigerlilly

A local potter had the audience in awe. We literally stood there enthralled for what seemed like hours. Doesn't everyone wish they could do this?

Nothing inspires quite like a date with your inner artist. Except the beautiful mix of people in our nation's capital.

2009-09-23T09:35:00.000-04:00

So, let's catch up. Whatcha been up to since we last exchanged words? Let's see...I've been crocheting:

Can you guess what this is? I'll give ya a hint: Corrine. Crochet goddess that she is! She styled into a recent spin-in, several of these in hand, which only made my desire to learn to crochet more urgent. So she taught me. On the spot. Love at first hook. Remember that post? So what do ya think it is?
Why, a market bag of course!

Isn't it cool how it folds into it's own little pouch, perfect for tossing in your purse for a quick stop at the market? Go green! Don't ask me the pattern or the yarn. Off the top of my head, I can't remember. But if ya really wanna know, just pm me on RAV, and I'll look it up for you.

The addiction to crochet doesn't stop there. Like many, it was this project that inspired me to learn to crochet. I carded up my Spunky Eclectic Raisin WannaBe (Nov 2008 club fiber), spun singles, and crocheted this little beauty.

This was a really fun project. Easy to memorize. Love.

In the knitting basket are the last two Rocking Sock Club installments. I'm poking along on those. However, I finally finished the first shawl I ever started. I just kind of improvised a simple design on a rectangular shawl. It highlight's Dragonflyfiber's Gaia Silk so beautifully. What nice yarn to work with. The colorway is Sandstorm. I purchased it last spring at the Homespun Yarn Party. I'd love to get some of Dragonfly's Bougainvilla colorway in this yarn for another shawl. She's such a fun dyer. Check her out if you haven't tried her stuff. One of her designs is featured as a gift suggestion in the fall issue of KnitPicks. Rockstar! It's the messenger bag-so cool. Anyway, here's the shawl:

Should've blocked it, but alas... I was too impatient to wear it! So cozy that silk/cashmere blend! I can dress it up or down.

Here's what's been in the dyepots:

BFL SOCK YARN

BFL:

And last but not least, from the carder:
Textured Art Batts

Fun times around here! If ya see anything you'd like, just pm me on RAV or leave a comment. Maybe some day I'll actually stock an Etsy shop, but for now, I just wanna love my babyloves and have some fibery fun on the side.

Seriously?

2009-09-16T21:54:00.000-04:00

July? Seriously? Was that really my last post? I do have some honkin' batts to show ya! Stop back soon and see them. I might even have some project pics. I've been such a crafty girl this summer!

Christmas in July

2009-07-17T22:11:00.001-04:00

There is a Santa Claus. See for yourself. Lookie what appeared on my doorstep the other day! I'm soooooo excited!! Can you guess what it is?

You were right!

It took about a second and a half to feed some fiber into that hungry carder.

But that's not all that was in the box!

Who doesn't love Spunky Eclectic? I'm so happy for Amy on the release of her new book. This book is fantastic. Every spinner should have a copy. She even personalized it for me, which is so Amy. This is why we love her so. She remembered from last year when I had mentioned I'd love a Greensleeves Lady Barbara in Ebony. Such attention to detail is so amazing! Of course I love this spindle. It's gonna be my go-to, I think. I wanted to spin something very special on it, which is why I chose some Spunky Eclectic Corriepaca in Autumn that Ironjohn sent me as a gift. John makes the most gorgeous batts by the way. Check out his Etsy shop and grab something if you can. Here's a close up of the Lady Barbara in Ebony.

What a beauty.

I also received a fun shipment from Blue Moon Fiber Arts' Rockin' Sock Club. I need to finish knitting the last installment so I can cast on for this fun knit. I love color, so this yarn really brings me joy.

I'm so glad it's summer. I love the possibilities of each new unplanned day. There's so much fibery fun to be had and no deadlines. Joy, joy, joy.

Oh, Yeah

2009-07-02T21:12:00.000-04:00

I'm on a roll. Yes, I am. I finished my first crochet project a few days ago. It took less than a week. Don'tcha just love instant gratification? This was easy peasy and a perfect crochet project for the beach. Can you believe it? I know, I know. So, here's a shocker for ya. This is FO #2.

It's the Rook Hat. I used Noro and had a blast with this little project. It only takes a couple of hours. Cute, eh?

True to my resolve to crochet for at least 10 minutes a day, I've started a third project from the Spring/Summer issue of KnitSimple. It's a mesh market tote.
Can't wait to finish this one.

I Resolve

2009-06-21T00:18:00.000-04:00

I really, really want to learn to crochet. Yes, I do. As a result of Gingy giving me a lesson in crochet at today's Spin-in, I resolve to crochet for at least 10 minutes per day until I finish my first project. So, here's the result of my first attempt when I got home:I've dubbed this my summer of shawls, so naturally, I've started hooking a simple shawl using chain, single crochet and double treble crochet stitches. I'm using some Sanguine Gryphon yarn I picked up last summer in Seasock Fuzzy Navel. Very happy colorway. Whatcha think so far?

Speaking of The Sanguine Gryphon...our dear Gryphon hosts a spin-in every month (I know, how lucky are we?), and of course, the afternoon is never complete without a little shopping.

Sarah dyed these beauties in Little Traveller. The tones remind me of summer, beaches, seaglass. Oh, how I love summer. Are you wondering what I shall knit with this? Why, a shawl, of course.

Studiolove

2009-06-19T00:19:00.000-04:00

Don'tcha just love seeing the creative spaces that belong to other people? I find artist's studio's to be so inspiring. I used to dream of having a space to call my own in this little cottage that we call home. Then one weekend last year, when I was away on an annual retreat, my sweet family created a space just for me. They're forever giving me gifts of service when I go away. It's their way of showing how much they love me, appreciate me, and miss me when I'm gone. They decked the halls with artwork all their own. It is so very endearing. Wanna peek?
Here's a glimpse:

My space is so cozy. Here's a shot of my stash organization:

My dyeing supplies:

A close-up of some kid art and supplies:

And a girl's gotta have a comfy knitting chair, yes?

Not pictured is a cool armoire for storing a computer, office supplies, shipping supplies, etc. I also have a light box for photographing my work. It's a sweet little space, completely designed a decorated by the ones I love the most. Therein lies the charm for me. Imagine my surprise to be welcomed home with such a gift of love. It means the world to me.

Yarn is Such a Wonderful Thing

2009-06-18T22:36:00.000-04:00

The world has a new spinner. Yes, it does. So, this post is for you. I won't tell the world your name, but you know who you are:) I gave a spinning lesson this evening to a natural. She worked a chunky art batt like nobody's business. Never once did the spindle fall. Yarn was made. Yarn is such a wonderful thing. Onward, little yarnie. Here's hoping you knit your own handspun real soon. You're awesome.
Here's what Eutrapelia's been spinning lately:

This has been a fun little spin from a Ravelry swap that Julie invited me to join. Here's a pic of the scrappies I received in the swap. I added a few strips from some Hype batts to extend the fun yardage on this one.

I'm thinking a bag of some sort. Any ideas?
Speaking of bags, I've wound some of the fat yarn I posted about to cast on for a felted fat sack. Here goes:

Mmmmmmmm. Chomping at the bit on this one. Committed to finish the Debbie Bliss Dress with Eyelets, I didn't dare cast on for this instant gratification or else no deadline knitting would have transpired. I know you know what I'm talking about. So very glad the baby dress is off the needles now. When I picked it up to sew the button on today, I noticed Cheeto crumbs on the front of the dress. Now which of my 7 children do I have to thank for that one? Can you even imagine being up against seventy little fingers on a daily basis? Please tell me that you don't see the orange Cheeto crumbs any more.

This is a precious little knit. Baby knits are so fun for me. Debbie Bliss is my fave. The simplicity really appeals to me. This was knit using Debbie Bliss Cashmerino in ivory.

Oh, how I love yarn.

Lost

2009-06-01T23:53:00.000-04:00

I know, I know. The whole world watches Lost. I started watching when the pilot aired years ago. I even hung in there for several episodes. Then, I just couldn't get my head around the sci-fi kinda weird mysterious black smoke monster thing. My intellect just wouldn't accept this as believable. I couldn't just go with it. I bailed.
Fast forward to Summer '09. Now I'm just sick of hearing about Lost and all the mystique surrounding it. I tried to get back into it, but that flashback/fastforward thing the director has going on just didn't let me in. So, I caved. Yes, I did. I went out and rented every last episode and have been Lost marathoning ever since. But, lest you think I've just been watching Lost at the expense of everything else in my life...
I've been knitting away on my first lace project. It's also my first shawl. It's my own pattern using Dragonflyfiber Designs Gaia Lace yarn in Sandstorm that I purchased from The Homespun Yarn Party. I'm really loving this knit. The yarn is 55% silk, 45% cashmere. Heavenly.

Blog On

2009-05-15T11:37:00.000-04:00

So now I've started something. Wanna see what I've been up to, fiberwise? The other day I had lunch with Kate and I mentioned for the gazillionth time how I wanted to knit me a fatsack. Being the generous fiber friend that she is, we went back to her house, skeined some fat yarn and fired up the dyepots. Pretty, eh?

Just look at her all business. Why yes, that's three devices she's juggling and somehow communicating on them all at once.

I was all set to cast on once the yarn dried, but a last minute baby gift launched me into Debbie Bliss' Dress with Eyelets. Here's my progress:

I just finished the back and cast on for the front. Deadline knitting makes me want to knit everything else I have on the needles instead. My Rocking Sock Club arrived and who could resist adding that to my wips? Not me, of course.

And So It Begins

2009-05-05T22:49:00.000-04:00

Let's face it. It's time. Time to join my fiber friends in cyberspace. Camp Pluckyfluff DC and Maryland Sheep and Wool Festival have pushed me over the edge. It was just an incredible girls' weekend. I've never laughed so much in all my life. It was such a joy to be a part of this. How can I not share the love with everyone?
Crazy Carding. This is happenin'. Sure, I've read about it, and done it even. But there's nothing like fattening up a Louet. She's no sissy. This baby can card a fat sammie. Think less. Yes. That's what I learned about carding. Random is good. And don't forget to challenge your carder. Don't be afraid. Push it to the limit. Let go. Isn't every other area of your life about control?

Here's Lexi carding up some craziness. Next up: my turn. Here's a couple of batts. I'm seriously crushing on the Louet. But you know this already, because I gush over it to anyone who will listen.

We spun Granny Stacks, felt nubs, fabric, and mohairy yarns. The wilder the better.

But that was just the beginning. We lunched, we laughed, was it dinner time already? Food, friends and fiber!

The FFF fest just rolled on into the weekend, when we met up with Michelle and Carrie right before Lexi's booksigning. We struck a pose at every opportunity and laughed our silly selves to smithereens.

Oh, did we go to the Maryland Sheep and Wool Festival to buy fiber? In between photo ops, we did somehow manage to make several trips to the car. I promised not to photograph our fiber gluttony. Trust me on this one. We bought sooo much. It was great fun. Here's the gang:

I love, love, love these fiberistas to pieces. We had the weekend of a lifetime.