tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-363150592024-02-21T09:13:19.349-05:00choo choo knitsadventures of a train-commuting knitterchoo choo knitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12345051817245805282noreply@blogger.comBlogger213125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36315059.post-66031192090627814382014-03-01T22:29:00.001-05:002014-03-01T22:29:33.770-05:00(Rolling) Stones and CyclingWell, it's been quite the journey since December. On Christmas night (12/25 going into 12/26) I had severe pain under my right ribs. It started by my feeling uncomfortable - mainly "bloated", thinking I had eaten too much for dinner. By 8pm I was having trouble laying down and sitting. By 9:30 I was attempting to find any comfortable position. At 10:30 I was trying to make myself sick - - thinking I had food poisoning. By midnight I was crying and begged my husband to take me to the hospital, knowing, without doubt, that something was severely wrong with me.<div><br></div><div>At the hospital they gave me morphine, which REALLY helped relieve the pain while they tried to figure out what was ailing me. After a portable ultrasound was brought in at 2:30am, I was diagnosed with gallstones. Yes, I had my first attack.</div><div><br></div><div>A few days later I went for an "official" ultrasound at a radiology office. They confirmed "many many" stones "bouncing around" in my gallbladder. It was entertaining (the Doctor was SO excited) and scary...since I knew very little about gallstones or why I had them. It was especially concerning because they had performed an ultrasound on my gallbladder in April 2013 (for another reason) and it was "clean" at that point. So, within 8 months I had developed stones...rather quickly as the doctors have told me in subsequent visitis.</div><div><br></div><div>After some blood work, I was referred to a surgeon. When he reviewed my scans he said "You have two choices: wait for another attack and then have emergency surgery; or elect to have your gallbladder out as soon as you can". There was no "if an attack would happen again"...but WHEN it would. I elected for the surgery and was scheduled for 10 days later.</div><div><br></div><div>There are plenty of people who may have opted to find ways to reduce the stones. Ordinarily, I would have tried to be one of those people. But the doctors all told me the same thing: my weightloss in 2013 is the reason the stones developed, and they will not be going away any time soon.</div><div><br></div><div>So there I was, at a cross-roads. I've never had surgery. Delivering my daughter was the only hospital stay I've ever had. I certainly wasn't excited to be "electing" to have my gallbladder removed, but considering the pain I might have from the next attack...well, that, to me, was incomprehensible.</div><div><br></div><div>On January 29th, my patient husband took me to the hospital at 2:45pm for my 3pm check-in and 4:30 surgery. At 3:30 we saw that my surgeon left a message on our home phone, saying that he would be running late due to some emergency surgeries that had come up. At 11pm I was wheeled into the OR, 8 hours after being hooked up to an IV and approx 27 hours after my last meal. My head was pounding and my mood was best described as "punchy". At least there was a Zac Efron movie on t.v. to help distract me for a little while. Ha ha.</div><div><br></div><div>Since I didn't finish surgery and post-op until 1:30am, the decision was made that I would stay overnight. This meant that I was wheeled to another part of the hospital, and I had to be wear leg "pumps" around my calves to keep the blood circulating, to prevent clotting. I didn't sleep all night. I went home around 10:30 the next morning - and slept and slept.</div><div><br></div><div>Thursday was sort of a blur and I remember feeling "just ok" on Friday when my parents came over to visit. The drugs must have still been in my system because by the time Saturday rolled around, boy, I felt like a Mack truck had hit me and my insides were NOT happy.</div><div><br></div><div>The surgery was done laproscopically: one incision was made in my belly button, two small holes on my right abdomen and one 1.5" incision under my breast bone. This last incision was the worst. Any time I moved, I had to hold it. Any time I sneezed or coughed, I had to hold it. The best way to describe the pain was to compare it to doing TOO many sit-ups. Other friends have compared it to a c-section. All I know is that it hurt to move, roll, sit-up, stand up, etc. I took some of the pain meds but mostly tried to suffer through the pain. </div><div><br></div><div>There are plenty of other unpleasantries associated with recovery from gallbladder surgery. This post is not about those things...since I'd rather forget them. But if you ever find yourself in this situation, please contact me and I'll be happy to provide some insight. :o)</div><div><br></div><div>Little by little, over the next 10 days, I started to feel more "normal". I went back to work on Feb 10th. </div><div><br></div><div>You may be asking yourselves: How did she handle not being able to ride her bike for all that time?!?! </div><div><br></div><div>Well, that was a hard pill to swallow when I first met with the surgeon and he said "you won't be able to do any physical activity for 2 wks". TWO WEEKS - was he insane?!? I tell you, once I was back home after surgery, I couldn't even look at my bike for the first week. It seemed like a foreign torture device. At about day 9 I tried to sit on the bike. It was a struggle. I was "cleared" to ride on day 14 post-op.</div><div><br></div><div>On day 17 I made the leap back into cycling by participating on a charity spinning ride at Marty's Reliable in Hackettstown. It was a belated Valentine's date for the hubby and me. I spoke to the instructor ahead of time, explaining why I might not be riding as "hard" as the others. We agreed that I would "take it easy". About 20 minutes in, I was NOT taking it easy. I was standing up in the saddle more than I had ever done before. Ken and Marty were next to me - surprised at my determination and hoping that I knew my limit of ability after not riding for so long. It was a great ride and rejuvinated my desire and passion for the sport!</div><div><br></div><div>Since then I've been back on my trainer about 3 - 4 times a week - averaging more than 50 miles per week (this week I've done 66 so far!). I've worked on riding in harder gears and doing some interval speed sprints. Ken and I were even able to get OUTSIDE and ride a week ago - having a gorgeous 50 degree day, despite all the snow on the ground.</div><div><br></div><div>The NJ Gran Fondo is all but six months away. Six short months with some long days of training. I think of all the hills, all the miles, all the mental hurdles to overcome. I am filled with anxiety and excitement. </div><div><br></div><div>Here's to the next chapter...minus an organ...but empowered by the knowledge that I am strong and can do this thing!</div><div><br></div><div>Happy riding to all!</div><div><br></div>choo choo knitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12345051817245805282noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36315059.post-29168956368835075362013-12-12T14:43:00.000-05:002013-12-12T15:26:45.702-05:00A Cyclist's Journey - The BeginningI know that this blog is intended to document the knitting side of my life but, as you can see, the posts have been very few and far between the past few years. I guess I prefer the liberties that Twitter and Instagram have afforded...mini/micro-blogging fits into my lifestyle much easier.<br />
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For those who know or follow me outside of this blog and Ravelry, you know the journey I've taken this year. My personal accomplishment was my weight loss. The primary factor - exercise in the form of walking, running and cycling. Let me tell you the story.<br />
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For years, my husband and son would go out bike riding on trails in the spring/summer. I would stay at home with CC. Then CC was able to go with them, on a tandem attachment to hubby's bike, and I would be left at home. Honestly, I never minded. I was able to relax, knit and catch up on my DVR'd shows (Nashville, Dallas, Grey's, etc).<br />
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But as CC got older, they were able to ride longer...and would often be gone for hours at a time. I had no idea where they went. I didn't know what trails they were on...or even what town they were in! I started to miss them.<br />
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In late April of this year, my whole life changed.<br />
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We were in Sports Authority, kicking around looking at stuff, when I casually said "I might like a bike like that some day". Hubby took this as "We're buying her a bike, immediately!". If you know my husband, you understand that there is no grace period with him - if you say "we need a new car", he would be online looking at cars in the next breathe. This happens often, so I have to be careful about what I suggest we might need/want around the house.<br />
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So there I was, looking at some hybrid-looking bike, trying out their seats/heights/pedals. Looking at the price tag was a whole other story. I didn't want to spend a lot. Who knew how much riding I would do. Maybe I would ride once and tuck it away in the shed, never to be seen again. For me, this was a big decision. I recalled uncomfortable rides, aching lady areas, soreness everywhere. My head said "don't spend any money you might regret".<br />
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We left Sports Authority and went to Target, continuing our errands for the day. Naturally, bicycles were on my mind and as we passed by their selection a nice white Schwinn caught my eye. It was less expensive. It was pretty. We bought it. I was still apprehensive, but feeling better about the situation, especially if it meant spending more time with my family.<br />
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The following weekend, another family we know asked us to join them for a trail ride out near Long Valley, NJ. We got the bikes on the cars and hit the road. Figuring it was a quick ride to wherever we were going (I was the only newbie), I left my beloved knitting at home. Well...that was a mistake. So I grumbled: "I didn't know we would be in the car this long", "I could have brought my knitting", "how much longer until we get there?", and "where are you taking me? Is this kidnapping?". Yes, I sounded just like a kid being tortured by a "long" car ride. I had no perception of if we were "almost there yet". I was at the mercy of the driver and I was getting frustrated. We weren't even riding our bikes yet! What a waste of time this was becoming. I should have just stayed home.<br />
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Eventually (which seemed like forever), we arrived at a place called "Columbia Trail" (part of the Rails to Trails program). Our friends wore special biking shorts - while I had on regular ones. Our friends' kids' had biking gloves. I had bare hands. I thought "All this gear for a little trail ride?".<br />
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I remember being in the back of the group for most of the ride. Our friends daughter (age 10) finally asked "How come you've never gone riding with us before, Mrs C?" and I said, politely, "Why do you think?" She took her time and thought about it "You've never had a bike before?" and I smiled at her. We then asked her brother, who had been up ahead, why he thought I had never been riding. He said "you don't like bikes?". We laughed. He finally figured it out too. They've had bikes for as long as they could remember, so for an adult to be "bike-less" at my age, well, that was just a crazy concept.<br />
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We rode 7 miles that day and it was fun. I didn't feel sore. My lady parts weren't screaming at me. I thought "Hmm, maybe this will become a regular thing for us, as a family".<br />
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As the summer approached, I started alternating bike rides with walking and running when I got home from work. We started incorporating trail rides into our weekend. Hubby and I started losing weight...and a lot of it.<br />
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By the beginning of August, I had shed 20 lbs. I was feeling great, and my clothes were feeling loose. I was also getting "the itch" to ride on the road. Hubby had no desire for the same (well, not yet at least).<br />
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We were out on a local highway one Saturday, about to pass a "local bike shop" so I jokingly said "let's go into Marty's". You know that I didn't have to say it twice...we were in that parking lot faster than you can say Shimano (it's a cycling brand).<br />
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History: My husband bought his mountain bike at Marty's Reliable (Morristown) in 2000. Marty Epstein, the owner himself, sold him the bike. He's raved about Marty's for years. While I would always pass the store thinking it was a place for bike snobs...people who would laugh at me for not knowing the lingo, not knowing the proper terms, because I owned a bike I bought at Target. I could not have been more wrong.<br />
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Back at the Randolph location of Marty's, I entered the store with skepticism. There were a lot of bikes, and parts, and gear! It was overwhelming. We asked a sales guy for assistance and started with the women's bikes. I had so many questions. Then we discovered that all of the women's bikes were too small for me (I am 5'11" after all). I had to look at men's bikes. Meh, no offense taken. We found a nice Trek Madone that fit and road nice around the parking lot and down the side road. But, geez, do you know how much decent road bikes sell for?! Yikes! It was a GIANT step up from my Schwinn, to say the least. And I was not ready for it, not ready at all.<br />
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I tried to compare cycling to knitting, something I know a lot about. I would best describe it as going from Lion Brand yarn and Boye needles (from Michaels) to MadelineTosh and Addi Turbos at your local yarn shop. There's a place in my knitting for both, but I prefer the later. The same holds true with cycling.<br />
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We thanked the sales guy for his information and assistance and put the bike on hold, to consider overnight. Hubby and I discussed the pros and cons of the cost. His best response: If you're going to ride, you should be comfortable and have a bike that you LIKE to ride, not something I'm settling for. He has said the same about knitting needles and yarn. He apparently applies this theory to lots of things in life.<br />
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Feeling discouraged by the numbers, we took a drive over to the Morristown store the next day. I'm going to totally geek out right now - but it was the best day ever! We met Mark B and he showed me the Trek Domane 4.5. She is the most beautiful bike in the world. I rode her around the parking lot. And then I rode her around some more. It was the weekend after the Warrior Dash and I was wearing my red shirt from that, and a tennis skirt. It was a beautiful day. I didn't even look at the price tag because I knew I would change my mind. But how can you put a price tag on love?? Hubby and Mark worked together so that we wound up purchasing the Domane AND one of her aluminum cousin's, so Hubby and I could ride together.<br />
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To justify the cost, I picked up extra knitting and tech editing jobs and started (GASP!) selling off some of my extensive yarn stash. My kids thought I was ill. Mom...selling her yarn...had she gone mad?! Mom, who hadn't ridden a bike before April, now owned the most expensive bike in the house?? And not just one bike, but TWO!! Mom, who always stayed home, was now out cycling more than anyone in the neighborhood? The times, they were changing.<br />
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Fast forward to today.<br />
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I'm happy to report a total loss of 34 lbs! And I think Hubby is around 25 and holding steady. 60 lbs between us - how awesome is that?!?!<br />
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I've ridden Columbia trail from Long Valley, past Califon and to "the big bridge".<br />
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I know a seat is called a saddle, and the handle bar connector is called a stem.<br />
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I've ridden 550 miles and spent about 44 hours in the saddle. I've fallen more than I'd like to count while learning how to get in/out of my clips. Bloody shins and bruises have marked my body for several months. I am a cyclist - hear me roar!<br />
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My longest ride was 28 miles doing Escape New York in early September (from Columbia University in NYC, across the George Washington Bridge and up into Bergen County, NJ). It was amazing.<br />
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We've done other 20+ miles rides together, but usually go out for a cool dozen or so :o)<br />
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We have cyclist friends. We read Bicycling magazine. We geek out over new toys and tech gear and the like. We have a trainer to use when it's cold outside. We've spent a lot of money.<br />
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And...(proudly) we are regulars at Marty's. We know most of the guys' names in the store and service department. There isn't one guy who wouldn't stop what he's doing to explain, answer, assist. They are cycling rock stars. I've even met Marty a couple times...and probably gushed a little more than I should have. We've done two rides with him in the group. Unfortunately, on the most recent ride, my chain fell off as we were riding up a hill. I took a hard fall (the right side of my body hates me) and Marty came up and helped me get everything back where it should be. My pride was also bruised, but I always get up and get riding again. This is how you learn.<br />
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Now that you've heard the background, I'll tell you what the future holds.<br />
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A group of us (I think there are currently 5, but could be as many as 7) from the neighborhood have signed up to participate in NJ's Gran Fondo on September 7, 2014. There are 4 stages you can select: 18, 43, 63 or 107 miles. The majority of us have chosen the full distance (ONE HUNDRED AND SEVEN MILES), but I think one of the other women and I may only ride 63 miles. I'll train as much as I can and make the decision as the ride nears. It was quite daunting to click a button for 107 miles. I actually felt a little queasy. But I'm in it. I'm nervous/excited!<br />
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Now that you've read all about my new obsession, I'm planning on blogging about my Quest for the Fondo over the next 9 months. It's going to be a rollercoaster of highs and lows. Won't you come along for the ride? :o)<br />
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See you on the road...or knitting.<br />
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All my best!<br />
Kchoo choo knitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12345051817245805282noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36315059.post-24390090171021892762013-04-25T11:26:00.002-04:002013-04-25T11:26:42.453-04:00Knitty Surprise!!I'm so excited to be writing these words:<br />
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I AM IN KNITTY!!!<br />
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My new sweater pattern,<a href="http://www.knitty.com/ISSUEss13/PATTjirachi.php" target="_blank"> Jirachi, </a>has been published in the Spring/Summer 2013 Issue of Knitty.com.<br />
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Please check it out, and <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/jirachi-sweater" target="_blank">"Fave" it on Ravelry!</a><br />
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Thanks for everyone's support and encouragement!!<br />
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choo choo knitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12345051817245805282noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36315059.post-69494520647321816692013-01-13T17:17:00.001-05:002013-01-17T11:50:34.645-05:00Mrs G's Blanket and Hurricane SandyDear C & W<br />
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Allow me to introduce myself. My name is Karen, a lifelong resident of New Jersey. I "met" C's sister, A, through work. When Hurricane Sandy hit NJ last year, my parents lost the first floor of their Long Beach Island home. Like you, they lost a lot. Due to health reasons, I was unable to visit LBI to help my parents empty our lifelong memories out onto the curb. My husband, son and in-laws were able to go down, and the photos of devastation they brought home were beyond anything I could have imagined. Fortunately, their 1950s bungalow was not their primary residence.<br />
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When our lives started to get back to "normal" I was able to talk to A and she told me about your home and the total upheaval of your lives.<br />
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It was during this period that I knew I wanted TO DO something to help besides donate to the Red Cross. Since I have allergies to molds, etc, I couldn't volunteer down in the effected areas.<br />
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Then an idea struck me! I'm a knitter! And I know lots of people who knit! Why not make something for the folks I know directly and indirectly, right?<br />
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So I posted on twitter and on Ravelry (a website for knitters) and invited my friends to help me create 12" x 12" squares that I have been piecing into blankets (so far we've donated one, and will probably receive enough for two more!).<br />
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In addition to those squares, I received an email from one of my dearest friends, a designer, K. K's mom, Mrs G, had started an 8" x 8" mitered blanket in approximately 2006 or 2007 as a gift to her husband Dr G.<br />
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Unfortunately, Dr G passed away before she could finish, and the squares were packed away in her home for several years. To say that Dr and Mrs loved each other would be an understatement. They spent over 40 years together and raised a wonderful trio of daughters, all who are creative and nature-loving.<br />
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Mrs G grew up in Rhode Island and would often talk about "the great hurricane" from her childhood whenever storm season would hit the eastern seaboard. She then lived in New Jersey for 30+ years and often donated her time to charities and people in need.<br />
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In mid-October 2012, Mrs G fell ill and wound up in the hospital. She passed away two weeks after Hurricane Sandy, on the day my husband, son and in-laws were on LBI with my parents. It was one of the saddest days for me.<br />
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In the weeks that followed, K and her sister's began to go through Mrs G's possessions and found the mitered squares she had knit 5 years before. K, knowing of my blankets, spoke to her sisters and they unanimously agreed that I should take them and finish the blanket to donate.<br />
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I personally knit the last few squares, seamed them all together, added a border and carefully reinforced any weak yarn/stitches I could find...But most of the extra love and TLC knit into this special blanket were provided by Mrs G herself.<br />
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It is with great pride and honor that I present this blanket to you both. The residents of Oceanport are fortunate to have two such extraordinary residents during this difficult time. I hope this blanket can help (literally) wrap you in some comfort and help you begin to feel a new sense of "home".<br />
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All our best, from my home, K's family, and knitters everywhere!<br />
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xoxo<br />
Karen<br />
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<br />choo choo knitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12345051817245805282noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36315059.post-56684943435652293732011-11-30T08:57:00.008-05:002011-11-30T10:20:50.164-05:00Arts and CraftsRamona/CC recently went to a friends birthday party, held at the family's home, and the kids all did arts and crafts (butterfly and fairy themed), which I thought was a fantastic, and cost efficient way to celebrate. When discussing plans for her upcoming birthday, I suggested a holiday craft-themed party and she thought it was a great idea! Unfortunately, she couldn't invite the cast of hundreds she had for her party last year (gymnastics) but she confidently narrowed the guest list down to 7 friends...some old, some new...and we sent the invitations out!<br /><br />Before proceeding with the party plans, I should mention that the invites did not get mailed without a hitch. I wrote out the Smurf invitations in pink marker, as instructed, and looked up the friends addresses the Monday before Thanksgiving. I purposely did NOT let CC seal them because I wanted to remind myself to put the return address labels and stamps on before mailing them the following morning. On Tuesday I woke a little early, grabbed the return labels and sealed them before I left the house. Once I got out of the subway I started toward my office before remembering to mail the envelopes. I pulled the stack from my bag, brought the mailbox handle down, placed them inside and released the bar only to, at the last second, realize I had not put the stamps on! [INSERT slow-motion, low-bellied sounding, "<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">noooooooooo</span>!" here] What could I do? It was out of my hands...literally. I emailed the mom's of the guests later that morning and they all got a kick out of my story. A few days later most of them wrote to say that the post office had delivered the invitations...without marking them "postage due". No wonder the USPS is low on funds! <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Anywhoodles</span>...<br /><br />The process of finding easy holiday craft ideas for a party of 8 six-year-<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">olds</span>. And here's some what we've come up with (these are other people's images...I'll be sure to post mine once the party is over):<br /><br />Reindeer Head (I traced and cut out <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">CC's</span> hands - super cute and fun!)<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgKFGW0xCOVD08HuZdTZUVjG4S5Y-bEUL7usRNZEHmrbYl8LkgsJ6Dx7ksqv-TqHzOE6maf3kxljPdodPJhsiBcE7FilX2jYIBMCF2G28E_XEfQezFCjzdYp0afqx_IZrafR7bcA/s1600/Reindeer_head.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 242px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgKFGW0xCOVD08HuZdTZUVjG4S5Y-bEUL7usRNZEHmrbYl8LkgsJ6Dx7ksqv-TqHzOE6maf3kxljPdodPJhsiBcE7FilX2jYIBMCF2G28E_XEfQezFCjzdYp0afqx_IZrafR7bcA/s320/Reindeer_head.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5680802442841684658" border="0" /></a><br />Snowman ornaments (using sticky foam circles!)<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAipFWYM7NfAIPNXhKQIdq-SGwE7mZ2WeTXf03IAjyBNR_47FilmJl_PzOtUsjaAFP2dWW5XnmciehVxRYzy5H1c5GkP13Dut_kedPS7FHsLvylQ0yHXJQE1DU1cFi5DDadmbogg/s1600/dangling-snowman-christmas-craft-photo-160-FF0107TREEA14.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 160px; height: 120px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAipFWYM7NfAIPNXhKQIdq-SGwE7mZ2WeTXf03IAjyBNR_47FilmJl_PzOtUsjaAFP2dWW5XnmciehVxRYzy5H1c5GkP13Dut_kedPS7FHsLvylQ0yHXJQE1DU1cFi5DDadmbogg/s320/dangling-snowman-christmas-craft-photo-160-FF0107TREEA14.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5680802985804694626" border="0" /></a><br />And the piece <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">de</span> resistance...SNOW GLOBES! I'm still working on getting the jars prepared, but I have all the "ingredients" ready to go - these are going to be so cool! [Side note: In wanting to cover all my bases, I did another <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">internet</span> search for these yesterday and it looks like stupid Taylor Swift was featured in People magazine because she's making these for all her friends/family this season. Let it be known - I had the idea first - she stole it from me because it's so awesome.]<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp1wN8fLwZuHNzrbD7aRuI79QNrNU0ZRSNaPFnAP9y_SU-URe6WW1SGyjBUBrkOa6RDIi7stPbkbH9OpEJcpNeR9XQIbvjk9wXLvwb89DnZzlFAtf5aP0QwjoyWsy2FHhcwoUmog/s1600/gt065_snowglobes1_l.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 225px; height: 281px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp1wN8fLwZuHNzrbD7aRuI79QNrNU0ZRSNaPFnAP9y_SU-URe6WW1SGyjBUBrkOa6RDIi7stPbkbH9OpEJcpNeR9XQIbvjk9wXLvwb89DnZzlFAtf5aP0QwjoyWsy2FHhcwoUmog/s320/gt065_snowglobes1_l.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5680803551156296482" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />My evening agenda for this week:<br /><br />Monday - go to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Michaels</span> and pick up remainder of supplies<br /><br />Tuesday - begin prep of cut-outs (I did 117 in all!!) and put together goody bags w/ <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">CC's</span> help<br /><br />Wednesday - go to grocery store and find perfect jars for <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">snowglobes</span>; bring them home, clean off labels and scuff inside of lids; cut more snowman circles<br /><br />Thursday - glue ornaments to inside of jar lids (and hope they stick!)<br /><br />Friday - bake a million and a half cupcakes (half chocolate, half vanilla, by request)<br /><br />Saturday - clean house, ice cupcakes, install plastic sheeting all over dining room in preparation of sparkles/paint/glue + 6 yr <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">olds</span>!!, order pizza, greet kids, throw best party, say goodbye to kids, say hello to grandparents, get MC off to hockey for game, get grandparents in vehicles to travel to said game, see game, get home, collapse!<br /><br />Maybe I'll get back to some knitting next week :o)choo choo knitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12345051817245805282noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36315059.post-82031275614012462152011-11-03T11:06:00.004-04:002011-11-03T11:38:22.881-04:00ISO: The World's Best YellowFor years, I've been obsessed with finding the perfect "yellow" yarn. <br /><br />I came very close with The March Hare yarn I purchased at <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Rhinebeck</span> back in 2009 (or 08?). I used it to make Kirsten <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Kapur's</span> <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/choochooknits/snow-drops--snap-peas-shawl">Snow Drops and Snap Peas shawl</a>...which I love (and all of my friends want to steal).<br /><br />Then I purchased some <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Shibui</span> Knits sock yarn in Finch...so much brighter! I made <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/choochooknits/ttl-mystery-sock-2010"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Socktoberfest</span> socks</a> in 2010 and I want to live in them on all the cold days!<br /><br />I've used...<br /><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/choochooknits/roma-shawl"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Jamieson's</span> Shetland in Goldenrod</a><br /><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/choochooknits/caramel"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Berroco's</span> Comfort in Buttercup</a><br /><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/choochooknits/entiat-endicott-and-finlay"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Berroco's</span> Pure <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Pima</span> in Jojoba</a><br /><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/choochooknits/ana"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Berroco's</span> Vintage in Sunny</a><br /><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/choochooknits/cerasifera">Knit Picks Gloss in Dandelion</a><br /><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/choochooknits/huaraz"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Malabrigo's</span> Worsted in Cadmium</a><br />and even purchased...<br /><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/stash/search#colorway=5812&yarn-link=st-denis-nordique">St Denis' <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Nordique</span> in Honey Glaze</a><br /><br />But I have a BIG project I need to work on and REALLY want a nice worsted weight in the PERFECT yellow. I thought of trying Cascade 220 (they have a great selection of shades) but I'm afraid the final feel of the sweater needs a little alpaca in it. So then I considered <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Berroco's</span> Ultra Alpaca, but no one seems to sell the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">Masa</span> color online. I guess I can start calling around to yarn shops but man, the effort!<br /><br />Does anyone have any ideas, suggestions, recommendations?<br /><br />You know I'm a nerd for the yellows...please help!<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/choochooknits/5095509580/" title="Cathy! by choo choo knits, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4131/5095509580_f3809e4235.jpg" alt="Cathy!" height="334" width="500" /></a>choo choo knitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12345051817245805282noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36315059.post-143424913240648692011-11-02T14:20:00.004-04:002011-11-02T14:33:40.448-04:00How to count sweaters? (yes, it's a question)As the end of 2011 fast approaches, my <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Ravelry</span> project page reminds me that I did not, in fact, knit 20, or 22, or as many sweaters as my friends joked I might. I will have knit, approximately, 15 1/2<br /><br />But wait...because maybe I've knit a few more...I'll let you judge how to count sweaters!<br /><br />Sweaters for 2011 (mostly for me, unless otherwise noted, all Adult sized):<br /><ol><li><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Aidez</span></li><li><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Abi</span></li><li><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Tashmoo</span> (for MIL)</li><li>Washington Square</li><li>As yet unpublished sweater</li><li>Little Blue Sweater</li><li>Beatnik</li><li>Erin Cardigan (for Erin; <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">CCK</span> Design)</li><li>Gavotte</li><li>Beagle (for Ken)</li><li>As yet unpublished sweater</li><li>Owl sweater (<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">CCK</span> Design)</li><li>Ramona DRESS (<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">CCK</span> Design; counting this as 1.5 sweaters)</li><li>George Street</li><li>Nebula</li></ol><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Subtotal: 15.5</span><br /><br />Sweaters for CC (kid sized):<br /><ol><li>Ana</li><li>Ramona Jr (short sleeves)</li><li>Ramona Jr (long sleeves)</li><li>Dagmar<br /></li><li>Striped Princess Raglan (lengthened body and sleeves; count as .5)</li></ol><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Subtotal: 4.5</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(153, 51, 153); font-style: italic;">GRAND TOTAL: 19</span><br /><br />So you see my dilemma. How to count sweaters? If I push myself to knit a 20<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">th</span>...would it REALLY count as a 20<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">th</span>?<br /><br />And don't even get me started on shawls...<a href="http://throughtheloops.typepad.com">Kirsten <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Kapur</span></a> has converted me into a shawl junkie! Ha ha<br /><br />Happy Knitting Y'all!choo choo knitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12345051817245805282noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36315059.post-36086842496738624412011-10-28T10:11:00.004-04:002011-10-28T10:48:23.140-04:00Friends and Knitters and The BeginningIt's amazing how something you love can change your life.<br /><br />When I learned to knit in the late 90s, my grandmother handed me a ball of Lion Brand yarn and a long pair of straight aluminum needles. Armed with these two tools, I learned how to knit and purl...well, I attempted to learn. In the two years that followed, I made a few scarves, and 3.5 sweaters. And then I put my needles down. For a long time.<br /><br />As most know, I knit periodically through the years: a baby blanket, a scarf, anything square or rectangular; but never anything "more".<br /><br />After my daughter was born, everything changed. When Ramona was 7 or 8 months old we took a trip to Martha's Vineyard to visit my in-laws and something inside me said "bring some knitting". I started scouring the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">internet</span> and discovered <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Knitty</span>, and some knitter/<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">bloggers</span> like Stefanie <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Japel</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Carrieoke</span> and *<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Nonnahs</span>. I felt a sense of excitement and decided to not only knit the sweater for my wee baby, but to keep going...knitting garments THAT FIT and learned new techniques like...yikes...CABLING! This led to socks and shawls and sweaters (mostly for myself). And then there was <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Ravelry</span>!<br /><br />I remember my friend, Alyssa, sent me an email that said "you have to sign up for this website! there's a waiting list but it says the list goes fast and you may only have to wait a few days to get on!". I kind of thought "wait, what? A knitting website with a waiting list? For <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">reals</span>?" So I looked into it and it asked for a user email to get on the list...and I panicked! I didn't want to use my "regular" email address. Was I going to be asked to set up a user name? These were tough decisions to make. Seriously...HARD. DECISIONS.<br /><br />Seeing as I was doing most of my knitting on the train, the handle "<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">choochooknits</span>" seemed like the right fit. Yeah, some folks still wonder what it means, but once they hear about my commute on the train, well, it all falls into place.<br /><br />Jump ahead several years. After my family, knitting is probably the next most important thing in my life. And when I said "knitting" I truly mean: friends, fibers, projects, patterns, etc. Because knitting has come to mean SO much more than just the actual act of working up yarn. It, quite literally, winds though my day-to-day existence to become the fabric of my life. I look at my project page on <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Ravelry</span> and think "oh, I knit that on the train with my old knitting group and accidentally broke a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">dpn</span> that day" or "I remember Gab seeing that I hadn't sewn my armhole closed as I was getting to head off to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Rhinebeck</span> S&W". Oh the times we've had.<br /><br />I've made friends, both near and far...and while there are a few I've never met <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">IRL</span>, I consider them to be some of my closest friends in the world. And through these friends, I've met more knitter/friends and have been blessed by their kindness and generosity...as though we had known each other forever.<br /><br />As testament to the power of knitting and the bond of strangers-turned-friends, I'll end this post with a photo of The <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">Rhinebeck</span> 12 (minus <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">Misa</span>, who was taking the photo)...my newest group of FRIENDS. I love you all!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/craftivore/6270268539/" title="My awesome housemates! by craftivore, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6118/6270268539_aee3c08774.jpg" alt="My awesome housemates!" height="375" width="500" /></a><br /><br />(L to R: Michelle, Gab, Yvonne, Angela, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">Shameka</span>, Deb, Kim, me, Kirsten and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">Meganne</span>; <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">awww</span>, Stephanie was missing too!)choo choo knitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12345051817245805282noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36315059.post-41682120657561271662011-10-19T12:42:00.003-04:002011-10-19T12:57:00.401-04:00What's in a name?I posted the following comment on twitter a few days ago:<br /><br />Post Rhinebeck Sad: I miss calling people by their real first name and using screen name as last name. e.g. karen choochooknits<br /><br />And this really got me to thinking about how much I kinda really love naming people in this fashion. Not only does it utilize the individual's REAL first name, but keeps them anonymous by using their chosen moniker (which usually indicates something about them) for their "last name".<br /><br />Some examples...and a bunch others which need no further explanation:<br /><br />Karen Choochooknits<br />LibLiz<br />Cathipink<br />MegFab<br />Misa Craftivore<br />YarnyOldKim<br />GabFab<br />Marie Bklynhandspun<br />Michelle Boringknitter<br />Andrea KnittingBicycle<br />Laura MyHouseKey<br />Caro Splityarn<br />Deb StitchyMcYarnpants<br />Kirsten ThroughTheLoops<br />Sarah NotScarlett<br />Chawne CauchyComplete<br />Carrieoke<br />Cathy Runnergirl713<br /><br /><br />Every single one of those names makes me smile to know their owner. Hooray for knitterly friends!choo choo knitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12345051817245805282noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36315059.post-52003570047143352342011-10-17T14:31:00.004-04:002011-10-17T15:09:34.255-04:00Rhinebeck RecapSo, for those of us in the Northeast, and, to be honest, all over the country, the third weekend of October is generally treated as a holiday...no, not for that Columbus dude...for the holiest of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">holies</span>...<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">RHINEBECK</span> SHEEP AND WOOL FESTIVAL!!!<br /><br />As most of you know, this was my first time staying the entire weekend - and gosh, what a blast it was!! The ever lovely Kim (<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">yarnyoldkim</span>) arranged for our house back in March (!!!) and it could not have been better for our large group. There was plenty of space for knitting and spinning...and finishing sweaters to be worn the next day! Oh, and don't forget the food...yum. While unable to partake in all things cheesy, the company of friends, old and new, certainly made the atmosphere perfect.<br /><br />Our caravans of knitters all arrived on Friday night and a group of us went to a diner in Red Hook for dinner. While not exactly "homemade from scratch", it was a great time to chat with new friends and ease into the weekend festivities.<br /><br />On Saturday we all headed off to the festival around 8:30, in time for the gates to open at 9am. Some of us, me included, flew off to find the Jennie the Potter booth, while others split off to go to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Sanquine</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Gryphon</span>. When the potter group was finished, some of us were snagged by Caro and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Stitchy</span> to "volunteer" to model <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">handknits</span> for a Cooperative Press book. What a great way to start the morning! Then it was off to go see what was happening at Sanguine <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Gryphon</span> ourselves. HO-LEE-CAN-<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">NOLI</span>!!! The line to pay was already 30 (??) people long! Lucky for us, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Misa</span> (<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Craftivore</span>) was already on line, which gave the rest of us an opportunity to peruse the yarn and then join her. While we were waiting, and waiting, and waiting, Ann Weaver walked by with her husband, Chris, and the rest of our 2 hour wait blew by like the breeze! Ann was able to sell some of her new book, White Whale Vol 1, and I didn't realize, until I was going to bed that evening, that she listed my name in the book as a Sample Knitter. Oh, hooray, that was cool!<br /><br />After S.G. we wandered here and there, looking at vendors and eventually jumped on line for Artichokes at 11:15...which was perfect timing because when we finished eating, it was time for the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Ravelry</span> meet-up! And there were SO many folks to hug and meet <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">IRL</span>!! I saw Cathy, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">Chawne</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">Maryse</span>, Pam, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">Ysolda</span>, Danielle, Heather, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">Jaya</span>, Elspeth, Stacy, Andrea and so on and so on. Everywhere I turned...friends! The hugs were abundant and the smiles were wide.<br /><br />From there I wandered with Gab-Fab to the food building for a little R&R...which was just in time for the rain storm where many of our friends got soaked! For the next hour or so, the food demonstration area became our "home base" as folks (mainly me) came and went to do quick meet ups or get food. During this time I was able to meet <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">LibLiz</span> (<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18">zomg</span>, I wanted to stick her in my pocket and bring her home with me) and Marie (Courtney, Lilly and Caroline too!!). It's so nice to see people who you've swapped with and spoken to and emailed with for years.<br /><br />The rest of the day is kind of a blur - there was yarn, books, food, walking. Then crash and burn at the house! Seeing as I had been fighting a cold since the week before, my allergies caught up with me and I had full-on sneezes and runny nose - <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19">blerg</span>. I opted to change out of my festival clothes and into my pj's - and decided to stay home and have a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_20">pb</span>&j for dinner (instead of going out). In the end, about half of us stayed home to knit, spin and rest while the others went over to Fork in the Road for a yummy meal. Afterward, some others hung out at our house and, after much torture, I finally gave in and accepted a drop-spindle lesson from Kirsten! Yes, I've gotten a taste of the dark side!! It was another late night and we fell into bed around 11pm.<br /><br />Alas, Sunday inevitably arrived and our happy group started packing to leave for a few more hours of wandering at the fairgrounds and our drives home (from heaven)! My family came up for the day and I met up with them around lunch time. We made the usual food vendor visits, played a few kiddie games, and even got hot chocolate for the ride home. I also purchased some fiber from Into The Whirled since Kirsten was nice enough to loan me one of her drop spindles. Yeah, she's a great enabler!<br /><br />I napped for a few hours after I got back home and tried to get as much sleep as possible. It's now the end of the work day on Monday and I am, truly, running on empty. Some say we're <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_21">Rhinebeckoholics</span> who have <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_22">Rhinebeck</span> overdosed. But the truth of the matter is - when you're with the people you love doing the craft you love, there is no other way to feel afterward, except sad and tired from the natural high.<br /><br />Here are my <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_23">Rhinebeck</span> designs...and a couple other goodies :o)<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/choochooknits/6252129962/" title="Ramona - roar! by choo choo knits, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6100/6252129962_574401ebe7.jpg" alt="Ramona - roar!" height="500" width="334" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/choochooknits/6252120086/" title="Owl sweater & cowl by choo choo knits, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6217/6252120086_37bc1b8370.jpg" alt="Owl sweater & cowl" height="500" width="373" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/choochooknits/6252084978/" title="Gale, Kirsten, Maryse by choo choo knits, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6173/6252084978_58efed7b3f.jpg" alt="Gale, Kirsten, Maryse" height="334" width="500" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/choochooknits/6252097450/" title="Gab-Fab! by choo choo knits, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6114/6252097450_268db22e83.jpg" alt="Gab-Fab!" height="334" width="500" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/choochooknits/6251575609/" title="The kiddos at Rhinebeck by choo choo knits, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6031/6251575609_30cfee1b3a.jpg" alt="The kiddos at Rhinebeck" height="500" width="334" /></a>choo choo knitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12345051817245805282noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36315059.post-72379214502965045082011-10-04T10:55:00.003-04:002011-10-04T11:11:50.894-04:00Rhinebeck!!!!!Yes, another annual email about <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Rhinebeck</span>...my favorite event of the year!<br /><br />This will be a year of <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">Rhinebeck</span> firsts...<br /><br /><br /><ul><br /><br /><li>For the first time, I'm staying the ENTIRE WEEKEND, not just making it a day trip with the family. I'm staying with an awesome group of knitters and am both nervous (new people) and excited (old friends) about it. I'm also planning on lots of fun and <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">shenanigans</span> (**<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">coughKIMandYVONNEcough</span>**) and being EXHAUSTED by the time Sunday rolls around.</li><br /><br /><li>For the first time, I'll be a SQUARE on the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">Rhinebeck</span> BINGO board!!! Haven't heard of it or signed up...well <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">Stitchy</span> is running it and all the <a href="http://stitchymcyarnpants.com/moks06/2011/10/rhinebeck-bingo-2011/">details can be found here</a>!</li><br /><br /><li>For the first time, I'll be wearing TWO new sweaters at the festival...BOTH of my own design!!! Y'all remember <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/ramona-4">Ramona</a>, right? Well, picture her in Christmas Green! She's my current <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-error">WIP</span> so I don't have any pictures to share, but believe me...<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_7" class="blsp-spelling-error">NOM</span>! The other sweater is brand spanking new, is still blocking and I'm hoping to seam up the sleeves tonight or tomorrow. It's a comfy <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_8" class="blsp-spelling-error">oversized</span> sweater with some <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_9" class="blsp-spelling-error">intarsia</span>. The plan is to publish it this fall...just need to get it edited and photographed...hooray!</li><br /><br /><li>For the first time, something I knit will be published in a booklet, available for purchase at <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_10" class="blsp-spelling-error">Rhinebeck</span>! <a href="http://weaverknits.blogspot.com/2011/10/white-whale-vol-1-preview.html">Ann Weaver </a>is planning to release her newest booklet, "White Whale Vol 1" hot off the presses, while at the festival. If you see her - ask her about it!!! And make sure you ooh and ahh over the pretty rectangular shawl (orangy in color) - knit by yours truly</li></ul><br /><br /><p>So is EVERYONE as excited as I am?!? Where are you staying? When will you be there? Pretty please, with sugar on top, say "hello" if you see me! I promise to deliver hugs and smiles :o)</p><br /><br /><p></p>choo choo knitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12345051817245805282noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36315059.post-8263202156301481152011-09-12T13:03:00.004-04:002011-09-12T13:07:55.542-04:00I knit....<a href="http://weaverknits.blogspot.com/2011/09/photo-shoot-fun.html">...this</a> (Ann Weaver)<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://throughtheloops.typepad.com/through_the_loops/2011/09/stheno-shawl.html">...and this</a> (Kirsten Kapur)<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.blog.nipperknits.com/2011/09/08/ridiculous/">...and this</a> (Nipper Knits...look for me under #3)<br /><br />And I'm <a href="http://throughtheloops.typepad.com/through_the_loops/2011/09/summer-shawl-kal-prize-offerings.html">donating this...</a> (making a shawl for a charity KAL contest)<br /><br />And worked <a href="http://throughtheloops.typepad.com/through_the_loops/2011/09/a-trio-of-cowls.html">on these...</a> (tech editing for TTL)<br /><br /><br />can't wait to show you everything (in person) soon!choo choo knitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12345051817245805282noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36315059.post-9263686013191463522011-09-08T10:07:00.003-04:002011-09-08T10:32:11.669-04:00Uber Bad BloggerYeah, I've been WAY BAD at blogging lately...whoops!<br /><br />I've been working on some pretty fantastic test and sample knits which will be published this fall - so keep your eyes peeled for my name popping up on other peoples blogs...hooray! One of these was published yesterday, but I'm somewhat ashamed to say I haven't yet finished mine. To my credit, I'm about 70% done, the pattern is easy to follow and I did the lace edge on the cast on edge...so, in theory, i did test it 100% :o) <a href="http://throughtheloops.typepad.com/through_the_loops/2011/09/stheno-shawl.html">Check out Kirsten's new shawl design</a> - you'll want to wrap yourself in one RIGHT AWAY! Also, bonus points for me since I'm using "inherited" yarn stash from (Brooklyn Handspun) Marie, by way of (Gleek) Stephanie!<br /><br />Also, can we talk about Rhinebeck (canwecanwecanwe ohpleaseohpleaseohplease)? Ken's 7th (WOOL) anniversary sweater was finished on time and he's been wearing it with the miserable chilly rain weather we've been having - score one for me! He'll wear it to Rhinebeck - feel free to check out the sweater but not in a Faith Hill/Tim McGraw concert sort of way (although Ken would be flattered - ha ha). As for my Rhinebeck sweater plans, well, like last year, I'm sure I'll be knitting it the week/days/hours before - and possibly on the drive up with Kim and crew. I'm thinking of reknitting a dress I designed (top down) but that may be too ambitious? Ugh, decisions decisions!<br /><br />Well, more pattern excitement as I'm able to announce...happy knitting everyone!choo choo knitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12345051817245805282noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36315059.post-29553873804706944282011-08-01T15:02:00.005-04:002011-08-01T15:12:32.341-04:00A Contest and Prizes (from me)!Do you need a little something to keep you warm in your chilly office? Have you been looking for a light-weight project to knit on those hot summer nights?<br /><br />My good friend <a href="http://throughtheloops.typepad.com/">Kirsten <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Kapur</span></a> is running a <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/discuss/fans-of-through-the-loops/1715984/1-25">Summer Shawl <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">KAL</span></a>. With each shawl you compete during the contest, you will earn you a chance to win a prize. Loving her designs and wanting to support her, I've just made the following prize offer:<br /><br />"Don't have time to make all the shawls in your <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Ravelry</span> Queue? <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">choochooknits</span> has offered to knit one winner a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">TTL</span> shawl, in a yarn/colorway to be determined after a brief consultation. This prize can be for you...or a gift for that special someone! Winner will select from <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">TTL</span> patterns currently available from the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">TTL</span> online shop."<br /><br />Check out the group and get knitting! There's a little under two months left - so you should be able to knit, oh, three or four shawls in that amount of time, right? Oh wait, that's ME - ha ha ha<br /><br />Happy knitting all!choo choo knitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12345051817245805282noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36315059.post-58375376982038481012011-07-26T11:24:00.003-04:002011-07-26T11:28:51.513-04:00Flurries in July?Well - a FLURRY OF ACTIVITY at least!<br /><br />I've been blessed with so many knitting opportunities this month...continuing into August, unless I'm as fast a knitter as my friends swear I am and finish them all this week...ha ha. And I have to admit, yes, I feel a small amount of guilt for not sitting down and writing up some of my own patterns...but i DO love being able to help other people realize their visions. Perhaps being a facilitator is my true calling? I'm <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">OK</span> with that!<br /><br />Since a bunch of these projects are for publication (in some form or another) I'm unable to share pictures...but the work is with some fabulous friends and talented designers...so look out for an abundance of information as the Fall arrives.<br /><br />So, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">whatchu</span> been up to fellow knitters and lovers of fiber?choo choo knitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12345051817245805282noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36315059.post-84033143513236655662011-06-22T11:20:00.003-04:002011-06-22T11:23:49.950-04:00OrganizingOne of my recent projects at work-work involves going through OLD files and purging/sending for destruction.<br /><br />In an attempt to bring this sense of organization into the rest of my life, I've been going through my stash, cleaning up old paperwork, putting things back where they belong (which is no easy task with a 5 yr old in the house), etc.<br /><br />But hey, why stop there? I can organize my Ravelry project page too! Who knew? I set up a few folders, added a few tags, and viola!...organization everywhere! Pretty awesome...and EASY!<br /><br />Check it out!choo choo knitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12345051817245805282noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36315059.post-31214913526202584802011-06-21T11:08:00.003-04:002011-06-21T11:18:50.378-04:00Remember me?Wow. Yowzas. Zoinks.<br /><br />It's been WAY too long since I last blogged. And I'm sorry for that!<br /><br />Work-work has been keeping me busy and I'm just never on the computer at home (well, hardly ever). If I could mobile-blog, that would make things easier. I'm sure there's a way...do you know?<br /><br />My Ramona sweater was well received, in my opinion, considering the fact that most sales came from word of mouth...so THANK YOU for your support, fellow knitters!<br /><br />I've just designed a cotton, open-front (no button) cardigan and am trying to work out the numbers to share with you! I made the prototype for a friend's birthday gift. Since she likes green, low maintenance clothes, and never buttons her cardigans...well, this design was a no brainer!<br /><br />I'm still cranking away on my needles every train ride I get...and am looking for ways to knit wool, even in the summer months. For those keeping track, I'm on my 9th sweater of the year, and also knit three sweaters for CC...so does that count as another 1.5 sweaters towards my goal of 11 in 11? Or do I shoot for 12? Also, *some* friends of mine suggested I could probably knit 24 sweaters...but that wasn't the initial goal so maybe I'll do 24 in 12 instead? Hmmm. Maybe I could knit sweaters in other sizes and then raffle them off as a fundraiser...now that's an idea!<br /><br />So how's everyone handling their transitional knitting from spring into summer? Anyone planning their Rhinebeck knits yet? I know I am! I'm blessed to be staying in a house with a group of awesome ladies for the first time ever! My hub and CC will come up on Sunday so they get their "fix" as well. But which spectacular sweaters will i knit/wear?<br /><br />Ciao, my good friends. Happy knitting!choo choo knitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12345051817245805282noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36315059.post-81349977911863446282011-03-14T11:29:00.004-04:002011-03-14T11:39:17.746-04:00Ramona is released into the world! Hooray!At long last, my <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/ramona-4">Ramona</a> sweater pattern has been released and is available for purchase on <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Ravelry</span>.<br /><br />My sincerest thanks go to <a href="http://throughtheloops.typepad.com">Kirsten <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Kapur</span></a> for her guidance, patience and, above all, friendship while writing this pattern. I <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">couldn't</span> have done it without her! She's even <a href="http://throughtheloops.typepad.com/through_the_loops/2011/03/ramona.html">blogged</a> about it - <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">squeeeeee</span>!<br /><br />Here are a few pictures to entice you...my version (Camel) is knit with <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Berroco's</span> Ultra Alpaca; Kirsten's (milk chocolate) is knit with <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Stonehedge</span> Fiber Mill's Shepherd's Wool. There are two hem options and the sweater is knit from the top down - try it on as you go!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/choochooknits/5274895311/" title="Ramona (the new sweater design) by choo choo knits, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5290/5274895311_32c15bb39a.jpg" width="375" height="500" alt="Ramona (the new sweater design)" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/throughtheloops/5524155092/" title="Ramona 6 by throughtheloops, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5295/5524155092_efc730c4b5.jpg" width="334" height="500" alt="Ramona 6" /></a>choo choo knitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12345051817245805282noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36315059.post-12820949119068261312011-02-14T08:57:00.002-05:002011-02-14T09:49:10.864-05:00Going and going and going...As a mom who has a full time job, and knits almost as a second "job", life can get pretty crazy sometimes. And the one thing that REALLY gets away from me is blogging...and I feel guilty about it. Believe me, I love to write...but it's one of those things that doesn't always make the priority list. Know what I mean?<br /><br />Since we last caught up, so much knitting has happened!<br /><br />In mid-January I attended Vogue Knitting Live in NYC. It was held at the Hilton two blocks from my office, how could I resist? On Friday afternoon I took a menswear design class with <a href="http://www.boymeetspurl.com/">Josh Bennett</a> (boy meets purl) and he was fabulous...full of life, inspiration, and knowledge! I organized a dinner for a group of AWESOME knitters afterward, and we all had a great time meeting each other and dining on nommy greek food. We wandered back to a bar at the Hilton later, and hung out and laughed some more. I stayed overnight with a good friend and we headed back to the Hilton on Saturday morning.<br /><br />Not only did I take my time in the marketplace, but I signed up for a last minute Lace/Charting class with <a href="http://www.tanisknits.com/">Tanis Gray</a>. She was a delight to meet...even though she told me I was way beyond the class level :o) Later on I went back to the marketplace and ran into so many friends I've met at workshops and book signings: <a href="http://www.slatefallspress.com/">Joanna Johnson</a> was at Knitty City signing her new book; I ran into Jill from VA, who I met at a Knit A GoGo event a few years ago; a woman I met at the Shirley Paden workshop at Sticks and Strings last fall; and the list goes on. I also met Erin (Minty), <a href="http://ysolda.com/">Ysolda</a>, The <a href="http://kelbournewoolens.com/index.html">Kelbourne Girls</a> (Kate & Courtney), and Cirilia, Connie, Melissa W, Colleen, Deb, Amy and Kat for the first time; and saw <a href="http://throughtheloops.typepad.com/">Kirsten</a>, Kim, and <a href="http://splityarn.com/">Caro</a> again. Everyone was just so nice...which is what I love most about knitters!<br /><br />To note, my designs for <a href="http://decadentfibers.com/">Decadent Fibers</a> were well received and I can't wait to see projects popping up on Ravelry in the coming weeks!<br /><br />I've continued to do some test knitting for Kirsten - and she just finished knitting my Ramona sweater pattern (I am SO blessed!!!). I'm ironing out the last of the sizing issues and hope to have it released in the next week or so. I think you're going to love it as much as we do!<br /><br />On the needles right now...<br />- a sample scarf for <a href="http://www.buffalogold.net/store/">Buffalo Gold</a> of <a href="http://www.styledbykristin.com/">Kristin Omdahl</a>'s new pattern "I Do Diamonds"<br />- Frost Flowers and Leaves Shawl from A Gathering of Lace. I started this last July and have a personal goal to finish it within a year. I'm getting toward the end of the major repeat section and there are a gazillion stitches - wish me luck on the final push!<br />- Colorwork mittens for a swap. No, I'm not generally a colorwork knitter - but I do like a challenge. Since they are a surprise for the recipient, I'll just say that my own ability has quickly surpassed my expectations. Ruth...you will not be disappointed :o)<br /><br />That's all for now! Happy Valentine's Day to all...and Happy B'day to my amazing husband!!!<br /><br />All my best,<br />Karenchoo choo knitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12345051817245805282noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36315059.post-20880486637688754332011-01-18T10:11:00.003-05:002011-01-18T11:03:18.298-05:00Busy KnittingIn the past week I've cranked out SO many projects...it's almost surreal!<br /><br />Back in November (or October?) I signed up for a <a href="http://funkycarolina.com/">Funky Carolina</a> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">handspun</span> hat swap. With thanks to <a href="http://throughtheloops.typepad.com/">Kirsten</a>, I was able to knit with some yarn she spun (because y'all know I don't dare take on another addiction!). I recalculated/rewrote my Falling Leaves hat pattern for worsted weight and the new version looks so cute in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">handspun</span>! Like the original chunky version...it's free on <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Ravelry</span>...<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/falling-leaves-hat-worsted">check it out here</a><br /><br />I also knit a second <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/lolly-go-round">Lolly Go Round</a> double-cowl using <a href="http://decadentfibers.com/">Decadent Fibers</a> <a href="http://decadentfibers.com/yarn/creme%20brulee.htm">Creme <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Brulee</span></a> (a mix of merino, silk and mohair). I'll be bringing it, and some printed patterns, to <a href="http://www.vogueknittinglive.com/">Vogue Live</a> on Friday. Stop by the D.F. booth to see it...as well as two other patterns I designed for them.<br /><br />Also, if you happen to see me at Vogue Live (I'll be there Friday afternoon and most of Saturday), please stop me and say hello! I'll have some discount cards that can be used through the end of the year...and many exciting patterns will be published...so hang onto it for future use.<br /><br />In addition to the above knits, I also whipped up another <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/darth">Darth</a> using <a href="http://www.cascadeyarns.com/cascade-128Superwash.asp">Cascade 128 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Superwash</span></a>...and have a second one, in a different color, on my needles as I write. These two hats are for the friend of a friend...and need to be done by Thursday. First of all, if you've never used this yarn - you're missing out! It's soft and a real pleasure to work with. Second, and I know that I'm a little biased because, after all, it's my own pattern - but hot damn, this pattern works up SUPER fast!!!<br /><br />A test knit (<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">sekret</span> for now) and another Lolly Go Round are on the menu for this week...and I hope to have them done in time to model on Friday and Saturday! Hooray!<br /><br />How's your productivity been? Happy Knitting Tuesday to all!choo choo knitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12345051817245805282noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36315059.post-9126627130002010152011-01-14T08:46:00.004-05:002011-01-14T09:15:07.445-05:00Inspiration/Addiction/ObsessionLast fall I took a day off from the hustle and bustle and drove down to Philly with Kirsten to visit our friend Andrea for lunch and some yarn shopping. Our first stop was Loop and we each picked up a couple skeins for quick projects and went on our merry way.<br /><br />Only I haven't just gone on my merry way. I've obsessed. Often.<br /><br />You see, there was a beautiful peony colored cowl that I have NOT been able to get out of my head. Once I got home that afternoon, I called Loop and asked about the pattern/yarn. Then I went online and *ooohed and ahhhed over it (and, if this entry were a pattern, I would say "rep from * to end" - ha ha).<br /><br />Isn't it lovely?<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXa9BhKIu9eFuUrjghBR2_yuEmbLXeiMctLOYdYauqWK64FZfqZZqg3GjIHvGGHv_b1_EobUjWiEJVcWXH_bwuJqlHPRl8p6z2sDV7eoilTkdbQlC2aNUO609huOfq5plBdi5dTw/s1600/Shibui-Luxury-1.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXa9BhKIu9eFuUrjghBR2_yuEmbLXeiMctLOYdYauqWK64FZfqZZqg3GjIHvGGHv_b1_EobUjWiEJVcWXH_bwuJqlHPRl8p6z2sDV7eoilTkdbQlC2aNUO609huOfq5plBdi5dTw/s320/Shibui-Luxury-1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5562043824292227778" border="0" /></a><br />It could be that I'm in love with the color...because I knit a hat using Quince & Co's Rosa Rugosa and everyone compliments me whenever I wear it. Or maybe it was the texture/fiber...so SO soft and luxe. In any event, I haven't forgotten...and am torn on what to DO about it? Do I just give in and order the pattern and yarn once and for all. Do I set a goal: If I knit X number of skeins from my stash I can place an order? Oh gosh, the decisions!<br /><br />Any recent projects you've seen that you can't get out of your head?<br /><br />happy knitting all!choo choo knitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12345051817245805282noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36315059.post-48268733480968674052010-12-12T16:48:00.001-05:002010-12-12T16:48:44.439-05:00Happy Holidays to All!<div class="sflyProductPreviewWidget" style="width:425px; height:494px;"><div class="sflyProductPreviewWidgetTop" style="height:6px; background-image:url(http://cdn.staticsfly.com/img_/share/preview/msc/widget/top.gif);"></div><div class="sflyProductPreviewWidgetCenter" style="height:482px; padding: 0 6px 0 6px; background-image:url(http://cdn.staticsfly.com/img_/share/preview/msc/widget/bg.gif); background-repeat:repeat-y;"><div class="sflyProductPreviewLogo" style="width: 105px; height: 34px; padding: 14px 0 0 14px;"><img src="http://cdn.staticsfly.com/img_/share/preview/msc/widget/logo.gif"></div><div class="sflyProductPreviewContainer" style="height:350px; text-align:center; padding: 0;"><a href="http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery"><img src="http://images-community.shutterfly.com/prs/v1/8AbMWjRy2YtT/8AbMWjRy2YtTcW/p/67b0de21b3127d902548/JPEG/1292190510000/0/"></a></div><div class="sflyProductPreviewMessageContainer" style="height:55px; background-color:#f4f4e9; text-align:center; padding: 15px 0 15px 0; line-height: 19px;"><div class="sflyProductPreviewTitle" style="font-family: arial, sans-seris; font-size: 15px; color: #333333; font-weight: bold;"><span>O Mod Tannenbaum Christmas</span></div><div class="sflyProductPreviewSEOText" style="font-family: arial, sans-seris; font-size: 13px; color: #333333;"><span>Personalize your <a href="http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/christmas-cards" style="color: #6666cc;">Christmas cards at Shutterfly</a>.</span></div><div class="sflyProductPreviewViewCollection" style="font-family: arial, sans-seris; font-size: 13px; color: #333333;"><span>View the entire <a href="http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery" style="color: #6666cc;">collection</a> of cards.</span></div><img width="1" height="1" border="0" src="https://os.shutterfly.com/b/ss/sflyshareprod/1/H.15/111?pageName=sharekey&c1=msc&c2=blogger" /></div></div><div class="sflyProductPreviewWidgetBottom" style="height:6px; background-image:url(http://cdn.staticsfly.com/img_/share/preview/msc/widget/bottom.gif);"></div></div>choo choo knitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12345051817245805282noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36315059.post-64349307135128789272010-11-12T08:34:00.006-05:002010-11-12T09:14:17.262-05:00Productivity and KnittingA couple weeks ago I bought a small, passport sized, journal to keep my to-do list in order. No matter how many fancy electronics or apps I have at my disposal, I'm still a very orderly paper-list keeper. There's something about manually crossing an item off a list that is quite satisfying. Plus, I find that writing EVERYTHING in one place keeps me "in line" and productive...for the most part.<br /><br />With that said, "blog" has been toward the top of the list but hasn't quite been accomplished. Of course it's a never ending item...but the constant reminder (and guilt of not having done it in a while) has finally gotten me here...hooray!<br /><br />Knitting updates...there are PLENTY!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.twistcollective.com/collection/index.php/component/content/article/83-fall-2010-patterns/698-halletts-ledge-by-elinor-brown">Hallett's Ledge</a>:<br /><br />My goal for Rhinebeck was to knit <a href="http://www.twistcollective.com/collection/index.php/component/content/article/83-fall-2010-patterns/698-halletts-ledge-by-elinor-brown">Elinor Brown's Hallett's Ledge</a> cardigan in two weeks. Yep, two. When all was said and done you can look at it two ways - I either finished it in 12 days...OR it's still not finished. Let me explain. Picture this: the sweater body and sleeves are complete and sewed together. The sweater has been blocked. All I need to do, in two days is the button band. Simple, right? Ribbing and sewing on of buttons. Apparently, not so easy. The band knit up right quick. But the buttons I had, well, they were WAY too heavy. So on Friday night, with our trip to Rhinebeck looming, I was off to our local JoAnn Fabrics, sweater in hand, purchasing ribbon (for finishing and supporting) and buttons. Back home in front of the sewing machine, things took a turn for the worse. Frustrated. Deflated. Aggravated. Yep, I felt those emotions. But what to do? It was nearly 9:00pm and the next minutes would make or break me. Should I abandon the sweater and finish it AFTER Rhinebeck? Um, I didn't come this far for nothin! Do I seam rip the ribbon, frog the button band and start from scratch? Well, it seemed like a good idea. So there I was, trying to seam rip the ribbon OFF the button band. Do you know how difficult that can be? Seriously, what a pain in the butt. After 5 minutes of torture I had a moment of brilliance. Why not just CUT the button band off? I had plenty of yarn left over. Out came the sharpy-sharp scissors and chop chop chop - the button band was gone! Whoot whoot. But now what? It's now 9:45 and getting later by the minute. Would I really be one of those people who finish their sweater on the drive to Rhinebeck? Would I be pulling an all nighter? Now imagine you're me, sitting there with this beautiful sweater in front of you. A beautiful deep purple sweater full of cables. What do you do? Well, why not just seam the fronts and make it a pullover - if only temporarily? Why not, right? So that's just what i did. I seamed the fronts. I know, I know, it sounds SO insane! But it worked out ok - I promise. I also sorta promised myself that I would UNDO the seam and properly finish the sweater. Well, that hasn't been done and I've worn it a dozen times since. Maybe my Hallett's Ledge is just meant to be a pullover...just maybe.<br /><br />Here are some Rhinebeck photos...you can decide for yourself :o)<br /><br />with Andrea and Kirsten...<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/choochooknits/5095510850/" title="Andrea and Kirsten!!! by choo choo knits, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4092/5095510850_ab342326b3.jpg" alt="Andrea and Kirsten!!!" height="334" width="500" /></a><br /><br />with Yvonne, Misa and Kim...<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/choochooknits/5095512138/" title="Yvonne, Misa and Kim! by choo choo knits, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4112/5095512138_b57e5f4442.jpg" alt="Yvonne, Misa and Kim!" height="334" width="500" /></a><br /><br />with Ann and Andrea...<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUPEpW3fg-Kf9isxT-SLNEChpH_K9QlNzY8LwkhQpBNfEnil4YsfqXYyuNqriZFza1MLLpr1bODeFCxso9m8ie_8FLYQhUrbORhpe_Ekf3S-hNzxlAO9MGICYEAELqEFRKK8EBzw/s1600/ann+andrea+karen+rhinebeck+2010.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 211px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUPEpW3fg-Kf9isxT-SLNEChpH_K9QlNzY8LwkhQpBNfEnil4YsfqXYyuNqriZFza1MLLpr1bODeFCxso9m8ie_8FLYQhUrbORhpe_Ekf3S-hNzxlAO9MGICYEAELqEFRKK8EBzw/s320/ann+andrea+karen+rhinebeck+2010.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538663745327145314" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Unfortunately, I also didn't see all my knitter friends/acquaintances - somehow I missed Stephen A (boo hiss), Caro, Mary Heather, and Jaya...to name a few. Next year my friends, next year!<br /><br />Post Rhinebeck knitting...<br />- SEVERAL revised versions of my Falling Leaves Bulky Hat pattern (so far I've knit 5 hats and a matching cowl)<br />- A new hat pattern, inspired by Ken and Darth Vader (coming soon)<br />- A slouch hat (test knit for <a href="http://throughtheloops.typepad.com/through_the_loops/">throughtheloops</a>)<br />- Socktober socks (designed by <a href="http://throughtheloops.typepad.com/through_the_loops/">throughtheloops</a>, modified by me...since I'm SO out of sock mode these days)<br />- A hat for Ramona<br />- A new shawl pattern (test knitting)<br />- And tech editing my first "for money" pattern<br /><br />More pics and more exciting news coming VERY soon (and I'm not just saying that, for reals this time - ha ha)<br /><br />Until then - Happy Friday and Happy Knitting!choo choo knitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12345051817245805282noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36315059.post-11927313707282115392010-10-19T15:03:00.004-04:002010-10-19T15:15:56.594-04:00All that's missing is Alice in the Rabbit hole!Well, tomorrow is 10/20/10 - just had to get that random tidbit out of the way...whew!<br /><br />So things have FINALLY started to settle down around here - and I thought you might a like a wee update, eh?<br /><br />The wedding cake was a huge success (after a long tale of trials and tribulations...but I won't bore you with the details). Here are some photos for your pleasure...<br /><br />In progress...<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/choochooknits/5094864677/" title="Hamming it up with wedding cake in progress by choo choo knits, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4089/5094864677_bbf9b2bc7c.jpg" width="500" height="334" alt="Hamming it up with wedding cake in progress" /></a><br /><br />and Finished!<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/choochooknits/5065831436/" title="The cake! Oh...and me...all fancy! by choo choo knits, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4145/5065831436_bebc2d16c4.jpg" width="374" height="500" alt="The cake! Oh...and me...all fancy!" /></a><br /><br />One of the bride and me...<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/choochooknits/5094899373/" title="Alyssa and Me by choo choo knits, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4147/5094899373_7e8e826eb0.jpg" width="500" height="334" alt="Alyssa and Me" /></a><br /><br />And the cutting of the cake...<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/choochooknits/5083810993/" title="alyssa and carl cutting cake 2010 by choo choo knits, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4127/5083810993_555d9c4667.jpg" width="424" height="500" alt="alyssa and carl cutting cake 2010" /></a><br /><br /><br />Before and after the wedding we were driving back and forth across the tri-state area to Martha's Vineyard for the annual fishing derby...here are some of my favorite shots...<br /><br />Me in the car nice and cozy and knitting...Him on the beach, freezing and fishing<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/choochooknits/5095480162/" title="Me (warm and knitting); Him (cold and fishing) by choo choo knits, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4125/5095480162_fdaed8b80a.jpg" width="500" height="334" alt="Me (warm and knitting); Him (cold and fishing)" /></a><br /><br />The Punk...<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/choochooknits/5095481416/" title="The Punk by choo choo knits, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4147/5095481416_8ac38e7b2d.jpg" width="334" height="500" alt="The Punk" /></a><br /><br />Ramona the Brave...<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/choochooknits/5095465438/" title="Ramona and Daddy on boat by choo choo knits, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4092/5095465438_46caebd905.jpg" width="334" height="500" alt="Ramona and Daddy on boat" /></a><br /><br /><br />Up next - RHINEBECK!!!choo choo knitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12345051817245805282noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36315059.post-26661786022219636202010-10-05T11:46:00.003-04:002010-10-05T12:06:25.040-04:00Zoinks! It's October already?!?!Yep, so the big four oh has come and gone (thank goodness!) and we're already into October. For those who may not be aware, these couple of weeks have been THE craziest I've had for a while. I've tried to keep everything nice and laid back (as works best for me) but we're now at the pinnacle of everything - and it's TOO TOO much for me. Yep, I surrender. This weekend is Alyssa's wedding and I'm the cake maker/baker. There's a LOT more about the logistics of this cake and our plans - but I'll tell you all about that next Tuesday (or when the chaos is behind me/us). Trust me, you'll also wonder how I managed it all.<br /><br />So, for the times when I can't possibly bake or make LOADS of buttercream icing, I've been knitting - to keep my sanity in check! And the train ride to/from work is about the only time I've been getting - bah humbug! At least I'm knitting a couple things that I love. <br /><br />1. Hallett's Ledge by Elinor Brown. I started this without telling anyone. It was sort of an impulse and I'm using yarn from my stash - hooray! Basically, I REALLY wanted to make a new sweater for Rhinebeck and I'm hoping this is done in time. With a bunch of roadtrips in my future, this seemed like just the thing!<br /><br />2. Surprise shawl. All I can say about this is that I'm taking my time and using softer than soft yarn. I think I probably started Hallett's Ledge to take mini-breaks from this because I need to concentrate on the little stitches :o)<br /><br />3. Socktober Socks by Kirsten Kapur. So many people have raved about past Socktober KALs that I finally decided to join in. The first clue was posted on October 1st and one clue per week will be released for the rest of the month. I have not cast on - BUT I do have my yarn wound (thanks to Whitney sending it to me that way!) and am putting needles in my bag in case I get an opportunity to start in the coming days.<br /><br />Well, that's all I can share for now. Look for pictures of the wedding cake and some knitting next week. Until then, say a prayer that I get everything accomplished! Boo-yah!<br /><br />Peace and Happy Knitting!choo choo knitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12345051817245805282noreply@blogger.com2