Knitting Satori

So Much Going On and So Much On My Mind

2012-01-23T11:50:00.000-05:00

Hey, I'm finally having a few minutes to sit down and catch my breath. It's been a full schedule of coming and going, on the phone on the computer back out running the roads, work, knitting, selling my car, etc. It's been nuts. Then lets add a couple of things that have really been laying on my heart.

Giving. Sounds simple enough. But, it's something that I did a lot more of when I lived in Atlanta. I had more time then and could sit and knit all evening and make things to give aways. Now though my direction for giving is a little different. I don't have a single person or group in mind. I just know that I want to knit and donate when I knit. So I've been asking around to different churches, organizations and charity groups and found a couple that could REALLY use the help. One is a clinic for children and the other is a ministry for the homeless and especially our military that are homeless and living on the streets. Now, if any of you feel in your heart that you would like to join me in the outreach, please email me at knittingsatori@gmail.com. I know for a fact that right now the military homeless are in serious need of socks. Not just hand made, but bags of socks from like Hanes/Fruit of the Loom, etc. I have seen so many wonderful things happen when a person gives. I know I've experienced a few miracles when I've given that could take a whole blog post to talk about. But, really, if you would like to join me, I'd love to talk with you. The child's clinic is mostly looking for blankets, small hand knit or crocheted toys/animals, hats, scarves, mittens, things a long those lines.

One true thing about people in the hand craft community is that we are always ready to help another person, no matter where we are at in our lives. That is an amazing character for such a large group of people. I have seen knitter's and spinners, freely help and assist other's that they have never met face to face, just communicated with online. It's a great thing.

Another thing on my mind (and not so deep) is knitting related also,

Stitches South. I am so hoping that I can work things out financially so I can go. It's looking good right now. Meeting up with some of my knitting students from Atlanta would be so great. I miss them. I would also like to connect with some of the customers/Ravelry friends from Smoky Mountain Spinnery. I guess I need to come up with something that has my Ravelry name on it, so I can be recognized. Any suggestions? I'm even thinking about setting up a meeting time over by the concessions so we could all meet up for a little while.

Writing my bio. I am in a place where I have to write my bio. Let me tell you, I tried it last night and I'm not good at it. I sound pretty dull. I can blog, I can encourage and I can share from my heart and experience, but putting something together about myself in an exciting way. Well, not so much. If any of you have suggestions PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE, let me know.

Buying a spinning wheel. This subject has come up many times on my blog. I guess it just wasn't the right time. But, I maybe able to in the next couple of weeks. I'm really praying that it works out. I've got it down to two, (which is great progress from me asking everyone about their wheels). Both are Schacht wheels, The Matchless is my dream wheel, every time I walk by the Matchless at the Spinnery, it calls my name. I love that wheel. My other choice is the Side Kick. What a cutie. It's of course compact, and more portable, spins well, and again the one at the Spinnery and I are on good terms. We like each other. :-)

So that's some of what's been going on. Before I go let me share one of the projects I have on my needles that I'm loving. It's the Agave Scarf, by Universal Yarns. (the link is to the Ravelry description to it) The pattern could be written a little different at first, but once you get it, OMG, you will love it. It's a great knit, easy to watch TV and do, and it's beautiful when finished.

I'm off again. Out to do my running around for the day. Enjoy yourself, smile a lot, and knit often.

Diving Into Merino

2012-01-19T13:04:00.001-05:00

I'm home today a little under the weather. So I thought while I'm sitting here waiting for the meds to work I would go through my photos in my phone. I do this regularly because all the photos in my phone are things that bring a smile or a pleasent memory to me. So let me share with you all this beautiful Merino. Enjoy!

2 Handed Fair Isle

2012-01-17T06:28:00.001-05:00

This morning I'm working on my plans for my 2 Hand Fair Isle class. I was wondering if any if you use this technique and if so do you have any tips? What I would like to do is collect enough tips that I can read them to the class throughout the class and include them with the handout.

Please include your name, blog address, Ravelry ID, and just the state you are living.

Thank you so much.

Diva Agave

2012-01-14T19:49:00.001-05:00

One of my many projects. The Agave Scarf made with Yarn Bee Diva Sequin.

More photos coming soon.

Mini Mochi Fair Isle Hat Without the Mini Mochi.

2012-01-09T20:53:00.002-05:00

Do you love knitting Fair Isle? I do. If you haven't tried it, you should, and if you are afraid of it, then face it head on and take a class, because I think you would just love the pattern that I am doing. It called Mini Mochi Fair Isle Hat. You can find the pattern by following the link or you can check it out on Ravelry.

What got me interested in this pattern is that I want to use it to teach a class. It only takes 2 colors. Yup, that makes it perfect for beginning Fair Isle. Then add the beautiful color whats that Mini Mochi comes in you just can't beat it. Your hat will look the super advanced knitting when you are finished. :-) So what I decided to do was get into my stash and make one of the hats just to get the feel of the pattern before I taught it. In doing this I'm getting a great hat but I've all ready learned a few things that I'd like to share.

To make this pattern go faster, it would help if you could have your yarn in both hands. Yes, I'm suggesting that you Continental with the left and "throw" with the right, one stitch right after another. So are you wondering if you are a Thrower, how on earth can I wrap the yarn around the needle, I have such a big movement when I wrap. Well, there are ways around that. Now I could get into it, but I think that would be better info for another blog post. Right now I want to encourage you to look into taking on Fair Isle
Don't look at the whole pattern or finished hat photo and freak yourself out. Just like every pattern, this pattern is done one stitch at a time, one row at a time. Allow yourself the same grace as you did when you first started knitting. Mistakes are awesome that means you are trying. Trying leads to learning, and learning means you are practicing and practicing leads to it becoming second nature. (Insert Yoda and Star Wars music here)
Not all hat patterns call for a size 2 needle. This one does. So if you are not use to using a needle that small. Practice on a size that is between what you are use to and the US2. Example, you find that you knit on size US7's all the time, well, get some waste yarn, grab a pair of 4's and cast on about 20 stitches and knit until you are comfortable. Hopefully when you pick up the 2's you will be able to adjust to those very easy.

So I've just started this hat, and it's so far one of my favorite fair isle projects. As I go through it, I will share more little findings a long the way.

Be blessed

HAPPY NEW YEAR

2012-01-01T13:39:00.000-05:00

I was thinking last night as I watched the count down to the new year, just exactly what did I want from 2012, what could I create this year that would make it a stand out year. 2011 and out of control. I didn't really enjoy it and found myself facing more disappointments than usual. But, here we are on day one of a 364 (not counting today) adventure.

Since I don't make resolutions (don't get me started on that subject) I kind of made a short term "bucket list." of what I would like to do in 2012 concerning my knitting/spinning. Here are a few.

I would like to have about 25-30 new knitting students
I would like to purchase my first Spinning Wheel
I would like to attend Stitches South (again) and visit with my students from Atlanta
I would like to design 5 really good quality knit patterns that would take the beginner knitter to a more comfortable Intermediate.

Personally I think that's a pretty good start. I would like to hear what you are planning for 2012. We have a blank canvas in front of us and lets color outside the lines together this year!

The other day when I posted I shared a little bit about working at the Smoky Mountain Spinnery. I want to share with you some pictures I've taken over the past few months. We are getting so many things in it's hard to keep up with it all. (We got in some beautiful Liberty Wool, and it's just about all gone, all ready) Anyway, here we go. And I haven't even got to the yarn and roving yet. :-)

HAPPY NEW YEAR!
Welcome to 2012

Almost a year has gone by

2011-12-30T07:39:00.001-05:00

It's been close to a year since I've posted anything on this blog. So much has happened some good and some not so much. I think we will skip the "not so much" and catch up with the good stuff.

What I'm really excited about is that I'm working part-time at Smoky Mountain Spinnery. I've created a Facebook page for the shop, here is our link. https://www.facebook.com/SmokyMountainSpinnery and we have a Ravelry Group. If you are on Ravelry you can join us here. We also have a Twitter page, @Smokymtnspinner.

I am really thrilled about working there, I've learned so much about fiber and even though I know many of you that I've followed over the years are so far a head of me in this area, I'm feeling better late than never. :-) I still don't have a wheel, but Nancy the owner of the Spinnery is teaching me when we have time. Another great thing, I'm learning on a Schacht Matchless. OMG, I LOVE THAT WHEEL!

At the Spinnery we have some of the most beautiful yarn that I have ever seen. I'm surrounded by Alpaca, how flippin' great is that? But, we also carry weaving looms, and the Color Gamp line that all the weavers are going crazy for now, and we have Majacraft, Ashford and Schacht spinning wheels. I guess what I can do is post some pictures so you can see in the inside. Here is a pic of the Color Gamp line for the weavers.

I could keep going on and on about how much I love it there, but I'm gonna jump to another subject. One of the reasons I moved to Gatlinburg, was to be close to my mom. It's been a touch year being a part time care-taker, but I knew it would be. On the other hand my children are doing fantastic. I am so proud of what they are accomplishing out in the world. Sara is on the Dean's List and GT is working full time and saving up for starting college Fall 2012.

So life is good, and it feels good to be back on the blog.

Mittens?????????????

2011-01-08T11:15:00.002-05:00

HELP!

I would really love to make a pair of mittens but I've looked at so many mitten patterns that they are all looking a like. LOL. Ssssssooooooo, I would love to hear your suggestions. If you made mittens, which ones did you make, did you really like the pattern, what yarn did you use and all that stuff. I'm afraid that by the time I decide on a pair, it will be Spring the rate I'm going.

Thanks I can't wait to hear your suggestions.

Samples are done

2010-10-11T08:42:00.003-05:00

These cute little knit pumpkins are the samples that I knitted for Smoky Mountain Spinnery. The pattern and yarn are from Farmhouse Yarns. I loved the yarns. and the pattern was great. You can make one in a couple of hours. The size of the pumpkins depend on the size of your needles and the fullness of the pumpkin is dependent on how much stuffing you use, so you can be really creative. It was just so much fun to knit these.

Feeling like YUCK

2010-10-09T09:29:00.003-05:00

Last week my daughter came in room and she looked horrible. You know that look you get when you are sick. Well her symptoms lasted about 5 days. Typical cold for her. Then Thursday afternoon I started feeling "funny." A little sore throat but mostly an uncomfortable feeling in my lungs. I knew I had caught it too when that feeling hit. For some reason when I catch something it always goes to my lungs. So Friday I woke up to having no voice and the yucky feeling you have when you got a cold. Today is a little better though. I still have no voice, but I'm moving around pretty good and I'm hungry.

Hopefully I can get some knitting done today, because I didn't feel good enough to even pick up needles yesterday.

Have a great weekend and stay healthy!

Excited

2010-10-01T19:20:00.003-05:00

This morning on the way back from getting my car repaired I decided to cheer myself up with the purchase of some roving or some delicious fiber of some kind. So I stopped in at Smoky Mountain Spinnery. When I pulled in Nancy, the owner was putting out her fall decorations. Note: around here, Fall is a BIG deal and every shop, hotel and store decorates for Fall and puts out Fall scenes almost like Christmas decor. Anyway, inside I got to again walk through and feel all those fabulous fibers, as if I had never been there before. ;-) As we talked she brought up again me knitting some samples for her shop. Since I have some time now I jumped on the chance to work with some yarn that I have never worked with. She handed me a pattern, 3 hanks of yarn all from Farmhouse Yarns, LLC, and out the door I went. Happy, excited and ready to toss everything aside to start knitting with this yarn. LOL. I will post pictures when I'm finished. Today was a good day. Smile.

Fall in the Smoky Mountains

2010-09-30T09:23:00.004-05:00

This morning I woke to the wonderful sound of light rain. I knew it was gonna be a great day. I've always loved waking to the sound of rain, knitting to the sound of rain, and well just about doing anything to the sound of rain. Then I got to get out in it for a little while. The leaves here are just starting to take on their new colors. With the leaves being wet and shiny they are just beautiful. In a few weeks they will be taking my breath away.

Waking up to all this has inspired me to knit as much as possible today. I have a rocking chair by my window that is my new favorite place to knit. I can open that window, listen to the rain and knit myself into a peaceful and wonderful place.

How about you? Do you have an inspirational place to knit? What part of your surroundings inspire you to get creative?

Calming Experience

2010-09-06T20:17:00.003-05:00

I experienced something tonight that I wish everyone could experience.

It was just about sunset. I'd finished cleaning up after dinner and thought I'd go sit outside and enjoy the cool weather and the quiet. As I was headed out there sat my fiber and spindle. So I brought it out side with me and for about 45 minutes sat outside and spun. It was so peaceful. No cars, no sirens, screaming, not a sound but the birds and a rooster that must work nights. There was this hint of a breeze, that was almost in rhythm with the spindle. Once in awhile I would take a deep breath that was like inhaling the perfect peace.

Blessed Be

This is what I'm gonna do this weekend.

2010-09-05T21:13:00.004-05:00

This is a beautiful Merino called Spice. Purchased at Smoky Mountain Spinnery. I can't wait to start.

Happy Labor Day!

It's Football Time in Tennessee

2010-09-04T18:17:00.002-05:00

My son is at the University of Tennessee's first game of the season. He loves UT Football. Actually every sport that UT is involved in, he is there. LOL. But for me, it's the beginning of feeling Fall in the air. It also helps that today we have had some very cool temps and everyone is loving it. I have also noticed some of the trees starting to change their color. It's a great time.

For some reason today I decided to unpack my fibers and drop spindle and spin a little. I'm out of practice sad to say, but I'll get the feel of it back pretty soon. I'm working with this really bright orange spice color of merino. Pictures coming soon.

I hope that this Labor day weekend will be filled with fun and joy for you and of course be safe. Take some time to love.

Women of Fiber

2010-08-31T21:43:00.002-05:00

Don't you think that 99.9% of the women who work with fiber are AWESOME? I wish it was 100% but you know there is always a few. LOL.

There has not been a time in all the years that I have been knitting that when I had a question or needed a kind word or a straight answer that it wasn't right there. What an amazing group of women. I am truly blessed to have these women in my life. And what about the women I've never met face to face, but stay in contact with through blogs, ravelry, etc. We are never really alone, because these ladies are amazing at taking time out of their busy days to stay in touch and share of their experiences. Many blessings to them.

Tonight my prayer is that we all take some time to be grateful for our fiber friends & family. Keep them in your thoughts and hold them close in your heart.

The Miracle of Knitting

2010-08-26T22:24:00.004-05:00

I don't know about you, but for me knitting has saved me millions (slightly exaggerated) in what I would have spent going to a therapist. Don't get me wrong, there's nothing wrong with going to a therapist. I've been there after my divorce. Note: I wasn't knitting that much during that time. Anyway, over the years of knitting and blogging I have a reoccurring theme. Knitting can soothe the soul, can heal a multitude of things and can be the perfect meditation. It's a great cure for whatever is ailing you.

So what is ailing me? Adjusting. I like change, really I do. I like meeting new people, I like new environments, I like the challenge of setting up a new home and all that goes into that. But, I've needed a knitting break. So today I sat down and pulled out some beautiful Wedgwood blue, Knitting Hemp 6 and made two little soap cozies. A local store here within walking distance makes the best bar soap I've ever used so I went down there and bought 2 bars of soap and they fit perfectly into the my little cozies. I can't tell you how good it felt to knit and clear my mind and make something. It was like drinking a shot of espresso. I felt energized and happy and ready to get back int to the "adjusting." The pattern is on Ravelry.

I'll be honest with you all, it's been a crazy couple of weeks. So many things hit at the same time that were totally because of other people not doing their part, or doing what they said they would. But, we got through it, on top of maintaining everything else that goes on with a big move. So we adjusted to all that.

So what else am I adjusting to I think it's a good thing, but, people here are so nice, and they want to get close to you, like a step or two within your bubble. And I'm not just use to that. Being where I use to live we kept our distance for safety sake. So I'm adjusting to trusting these people and not being so one guard. I don't want to come off as a Bit@#. They are really creative people and enjoy their lives and enjoy getting together with other creative people and sharing. I have had a lot of fun meeting them, and yet I'm adjusting to being the "New" one.

So, with all this going on, guess what I'm thinking about doing? Nope, I all ready have had a glass of wine, try again..... yup, I'm looking again at spinning wheels. I figure if knitting is magical and using a drop spindle is so relaxing, learning to spin on one of those fabulous wheels has got to be close to heaven. I'm sure it will definitely help me adjust. ;-) So I'm looking again. I should have a little extra change in a few weeks, so I'm open to suggestions. What should I get, and why. I can't wait to hear from you.

Blessed be.

I'm now a resident

2010-08-20T16:42:00.002-05:00

I'm now a resident of Gatlinburg, TN. It's lovely up here right now, and living in the Arts and Craft community is awesome.

We are still unpacking the last few boxes, and dealing with all kinds of crazy changes from the Culinary School that my daughter is attending. Things are nuts, but exciting. Hopefully I'll have some time to put some photos up soon.

I hope all is well with you and yours, and enjoy the weekend, lots of knitting & spinning.

Saundra

Almost Moved

2010-07-21T09:03:00.003-05:00

Good heavens. I knew going into this move that cleaning out a home that was LIVED in for 25 years was going to be fun (work) but I had no idea to what degree. Don't get me wrong it's been many hours of fun and some sadness. But I am happy to say that we are in the final days and we should be fully moved Aug. 7th.

Again I am facing the duality of life, the excitement of moving, meeting new people, working with a great lady at the Smoky Mountain Spinnery, and living in a beautiful area. Then realizing that I'm leaving the home where I raised both my kids, the countless fish, etc that are buried in the back yard, the tree I rescued and it only had two leaves to now it's taller than my 3 story house. Not to even mention the friends, opportunities and experiences I've had here in Atlanta. So I'm finding comfort in believing two things. 1) Life is seasonal. Everything has a time and season, things, people, etc come and go. Releasing and detatching. 2) Everything happens for a reason. There are great things ahead for me and my family, but they won't happen if I'm sitting still, afriad to move.

We are all called to walk a path, some times the path is smooth and level and then there are those times when the path is treacherous. I'm a traveler on my path, looking, learning and loving. This time my path is leading me to the Smoky Mountains.

I so look forward to keeping in touch (better than I have in the past) and staying in contact with you either through the blog or through Ravelry.

Hugs to all of you.

I'm MOVING

2010-06-18T14:23:00.002-05:00

For about 3 years now, it's been a roller coaster of up and down and then times where I have felt like I was hanging by my heels. BUT, things are changing. Toward the end of July I will be moving to the art and craft area of Gatlinburg, TN. It's beautiful there and very peaceful. My children will be attending college not too far away, and I'll be close enough to my mom to care for her.

This move has been emotional. I've lived in this house since 1985. My children were raised here, and we have a lot of memories here. But, I am looking forward to the path set before me, and I truly believe that all things will work out. Nothing is by chance.

Life, Good, Bad, Busy, Happy

2010-01-20T14:18:00.002-05:00

That's been my days since for awhile. I have been knitting though when I can. I've also started my photography business part time right now. I've been working on prints that can be purchased, like the big purple flower.

Today I had a little bad news on something that I was looking forward to, and don't you know the next email I opened had this at the very top.

"Remember that not getting what you want is sometimes a
wonderful stroke of luck."
~His Holiness, the Dalai Lama

How cool is that?

Its Christmas time

2009-12-20T14:44:00.002-05:00

Which means we are all stressed and way too busy. ok, take a deep breath. We are going to be ok. ;-)

So I noticed a little while ago that my Twitter link on this blog was posting some things that I was not aware of. It had been hacked so that has been removed. If you want to find me on Twitter, look for knitting_satori , you'll find me there.

ALSO, I've been busy check out my other blog. http://saundramcbride.blogspot.com . There you will find the beginnings of my photography connection to the world.

I don't know if your house has been hit like mine, but we all have been under the weather a little and some a little worse than others. This includes my Great Dane. I am happy to say though that Gunther is 100% better, and has been acting like a puppy (a 145 lb. puppy), so that is good news.

Knitting, yes, I have knitting news. I have been working on the Melon Shawl from Victorian Lace Today. I finished it last night and will start blocking it when I'm finished here. I am so excited about it. Pictures will be coming soon.

So I think we are all caught up. If I don't post any more between now and Christmas, please have a wonderful Christmas if you celebrate it. In all honesty whatever you celebrate, just enjoy the love you feel, enjoy that people that love you and be grateful for everyday you have together.

Blessed be

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

2009-11-25T13:57:00.003-05:00

Where ever your path takes you for the holiday, I pray that your day will be filled with color, life, love, laughter, hugs, mindfulness, and gratitude.

Be Blessed & Be a Blessing

Busy, but GOOD Busy

2009-11-06T11:55:00.002-05:00

Right now life is filled with photography, my kids, my dogs and lots of knitting. How cool is that? I'm working right now on a job transition. I've for years (too many to tell you) have been working with computers. I've got more certifications than any person should, but I'm so burned out on it. The joy is gone. So I decided to take the advice that I have given out to so many of my "happy" friends, and pursue the things I love to do.

For a long time I've set aside my art, letting it out in knitting and a few projects in other mediums here and there. I've done photography just about as long as I have been knitting. My father was a photographer and I remember him always having a camera with him, or letting me take the pictures, so that's where I'm headed. Step by step I've been building a portfolio and to be honest, I'm still working on it. But I'm about to set up my photography blog and get my Flickr portfolio going and put some of my work out there to be purchased.

One thing that I want to do is do a series of pictures of knitters and spinners. What got me thinking about it, is in Gatlinburg I was touring a home and they had pictures of women cooking, gardening, sewing, knitting, spinning and working in other areas hanging in a hallway. It seemed that everyone commented on the knitting and spinning photos. Everyone knew a family member or two that knitted and some that spun. It was awesome to see the looks on their faces as they spoke of these women. Those photos brought back happy memories and good feelings. I noticed that when they spoke it renewed a closeness with the person who knitted. It was special to see.

Anyway, I have rambled, but it's felt good. Be blessed and have a wonderful weekend. I hope to have knitting pictures up soon.

UnCool

2009-10-18T15:16:00.002-05:00

UNCOOL, UNCOOL, UNCOOL.

While I was flipping around the patterns on Ravelry I spotted something very upsetting. Someone has stolen my photo of the purple flower and is using it as their ID picture. Those of you on Ravelry know that when you pull up the patterns, there are the designers listed on the right hand side. Well there it was. And whats really bad is that I had all ready clicked on changing the page when I seen it, so I can't go back and confront the person.

So I will say this. The two floral pictures below, belong to ME. I took them, I Photoshopped them and felt comfortable enough to share them. Just like any other photo on the internet, if you take it, you have ripped off the original owner (ME).

To those who ignore copyright, I would seriously be watching out for karma.

Well This Is a Switch

2009-10-12T07:20:00.004-05:00

Photo by Saundra McBride

You know, I don't think that I know one knitter that has just one project going. All of us have several things on needles. We categorize them different ways but I know mine fall into the "want to, REALLY want to, and then the I just HAVE TO, make this. :-) You know what I mean? Actually I think it's more like, I can knit this and not pay attention, I can knit this and be somewhat distracted and then the I have to have TOTAL concentration.

The reason I'm bring this up is because I looked around the area where I knit and then double checked my projects on Ravelry and noticed that I have a large amount of projects on the needles and what surprised me is that I don't feel pressured to finish any of them. LOL. Usually when this awareness hits, I'm instantly hit by the wave of "finish these before you start anything else." (which is usually followed by, "now I don't want to finish any of these" LOL)

But, this morning I was knitting on one of the newly cast on projects and was thinking about what these projects say about me. First off I think that they reflect my love for knitting, my love for yarn, my love for creating, and my love for new and exciting things. That last one is probably true in every area of my life.

Lately life outside of knitting has been on the other side of the happiness. I'm not saying that it isn't needed. Heavens know that growth and depth of a person comes from facing the surprise attacks. But, I looked at these unfinished projects and seen that they are one of the things that not just brings me joy, they bring choice, they bring control, they bring escape, they bring personal time, they bring good memories, they bring healing, they bring an opportunity for me to really think about the person I am knitting it for, and they bring what I need at that time. Knitting and all it brings into my life is the antibiotic to my world of germs.

So I'm interested in finding out....... what do your unfinished projects say to you?

Blessed be.

Thought from the heart

2009-09-27T18:18:00.005-05:00

Photo by Saundra McBride

Even though I have tons of knitting stuff to share, this weekend my mind and spirit has been filled with something else.

This year seems to be filled with people (some who know me and some that only know me professionally) who feel like it is their RIGHT to inform me of what they feel is wrong with my life, to let me know what they believe are my faults and why they don't perceive that I'm happy. I've also been told that I'm not a complete person because I'm divorced and that I would be a "better person" if I was married.

So the straw that has brought this post happened this weekend. No details other to say that I am sure some of these people feel they have my best at heart. I'm not really ready to repeat what was said to me. But here is what I want to share with the world.

I am 52 year old grown woman. My life has been full of hardship, loss and victories. You don't have a clue to what I have faced because I have not told my story. I wasted time and money on superficial things, that didn't get me anything farther or accepted in this life. I did my time (27 years) getting up 2 hours early so that I could get the bathroom first to do the hair, the makeup, nails and have my clothes perfectly pressed before I headed out the door. I've done my time in that land. Don't take me wrong, I enjoy looking nice, clean and appropriately dressed, ok. But, in my struggles I have found that I was miserable on the inside and pretty on the outside. That sucked. That was not ME! It was during one of my down times that I realized. I'm tired of trying to please, trying to fit, trying to be perfect, because no matter what I will tick off someone, there is will always be something that someone will find that is wrong. So at that point, I said to hell with it all.

I accepted that I'm a jeans person, I accepted that I like my hair starting to gray, I accepted that I do like to wear makeup, I accepted that I can put a headband in my hair and it be ok, I have accepted that I am my own person. Yes there are still things I am working on, but I am honest, I am sincere, I cry with my friends and I laugh with their joy, I try to make their hard times easier and I support them and never judge them BECAUSE......

when you stand in front of someone, what you see is not the whole picture, is not their heart, what you see is not their story.

I encourage you to be YOU. Be yourself, be different if that is you, look like a million dollars if that is you, look natural if that is you, just be you and be happy being you.

Blessed be
Satori

I'm knitting and stuff...

2009-09-09T06:44:00.004-05:00

Its college football and time and I'm so excited. College football is a BIG DEAL in the south. Especially in the SEC Division. So I thought it would be fun to have a knitting project to do while I'm watching or listening to the games. This past Saturday, the Tennessee Volunteers had their first game under their new coach Lane Kiffin. OMG. It was awesome. I don't know how I got any knitting done. But I did, in fact the game inspired me to do a two color sock. The end zones at UT are checkered orange and white and so that's my pattern. Next week they play UCLA so I'll finish this sock and start the mate.

Some of my other knitting projects are things I'm doing to get ready for Christmas gift giving. I know it's a little early, but I'm usually caught short of time and this year I really want my holiday knitting done so I can enjoy the time.

This headband is from One Skein Wonders, 101 Yarn Shop Favorites, by Judith Durant. I took the headband from one pattern and the flower from another. I used 2 strands of Patons Classic Wool. The headband came out really nice, and I'm thinking about making a couple more of these. It's a great one day project and super for those left overs from other projects.

Another addition to my gift giving, or at least what was suppose to be gifts, are these two Circle Cloths. I found this pattern on Ravelry and just loved it. You can get really creative with this pattern by using two colors. I just stayed with what I had, but I may end up keeping these and making the two color ones as the gifts. It's another make it in a couple of hours projects that looks like you spent a lot longer on it.

Along with these I've been trying to finish up some things that have been on the needles way tooooooo loooonnnnnggggggg.

Again I'm amazed at the healing that comes with knitting. Recently I've found myself in a situation where I've had to make HUGE decisions without much time to look at all sides. For me that is " walking on thin ice." I've always been one when faced with life changing situations to look at it from every side and then make the decision. Knitting has been so therapeutic for me. Calming my mind, clearing my head and allowing me the space I've needed to make these decisions. Thank heavens for knitting.

Blessed Be

more pictures

2009-08-29T14:55:00.005-05:00

It's been a beautiful day here in GA. today and it started out cool and foggy. That was at 4:30a. Now it's a little humid, a lot warmer, but bright and sunny. There is just a little bit of Fall in the air. We actually have trees that are starting to turn.

So I've been knitting and working on my Photoshop certification today and thought I'd add some more of my knitting photos to the blog.

Here's something that I started last night. Its called a Circle Cloth. Of course I found it on Ravelry. Since I had a huge, and I mean huge, skein of cotton, I thought it would make a really pretty dishcloth and I'm not disappointed. This pattern would be good for other things like lap-ghans, baby blankets, hand towels, etc.

Ok, lets go back 40+ years to when I was learning to knit. My first project was a yellow and white, two strand pair of slippers. Yup, very similar to these. I can't begin to tell you how wonderful it was knitting these. At times I had some of the best memories of my Grandma, and us knitting. I wish she could see all that I have knitted. Her few hours of teaching me has brought a world of joy and happiness to me that nothing can compare.

Another pattern found on Ravelry. I made these slippers out of Simply Soft left overs. Its a wonderful pattern for using up scraps, and ends.

Here is the final shots on the Vortex Shawl/Blanket. I just got on a run and decided that I'd keep knitting till there was no more room on the 60" circulars.

Well, it's back to some studying. Have a wonderful weekend.

Blessed be

Gunther and Knitting

2009-08-23T12:31:00.005-05:00

Good news, Gunther has made it to week 4 in the Cutest Dog Contest. If you have voted thank you so much and if you haven't please vote for him. The info is in the post below. It's a week by week thing, so every Saturday he has to start all over with votes.

This morning I was thinking it's been awhile since I posted any photos of what I've been up to so today is picture day. I hope you like.

Have a great day!

Cutest Dog Competition

2009-08-08T10:02:00.001-05:00

A New Pattern: Easy Airy Summer Baby Blanket

2009-07-27T09:37:00.005-05:00

My cousin recently had her second child. A sweet little baby boy. Well I got busy and put together a baby blanket for him. I wanted it to be light, airy and soft. So here is the pattern that I came up with. It can also be changed in so many ways, so you can make it to fit your needs. Hope you enjoy.

Easy, Airy Summer Baby Blanket
By Saundra McBride
©2009This pattern is for personal use only.

A quick pattern that is great for knitters of all levels.Versatile enough that you can change yarn and needles size to make it your own.

Supplies
Needles: Size US 10 - 32” circular needlesYarn: any sport or baby weight yarn. I used 2 skeins, TLC Baby. 5oz. 141gr. 360 yards. Note: if you substitute yarn please adjust your needle size.

Seed Stitch Pattern:
Row 1: Knit 1, Purl 1, repeat these two stitches across the row. Row 2: Repeat Row 1

Blanket

Cast on 133 sts.

Work in Seed st. (refer to stitch pattern) for 4"

Row 1 (RS): *K1, P1* 6 times. PM. K across until you have 12 st. on the left needle. PM. *P1, K1* 6 times.
Row 2: *K1, P1* 6 times. MM. P across to marker. MM. *P1, K1* 6 times

Repeat Rows 1 and 2 until blanket measures 36” from cast on.

Work in Seed st for 4".

Bind off all sts loosely. Weave in ends.

Abbreviations:

St.= stitches
K = knit
P = purl
* * = repeat between the two *
PM = place marker
MM = move marker
RS = right side
WS = wrong side

It's a Holiday!

2009-07-04T17:05:00.000-05:00

Happy 4th of July

I hope you get to have great summer food, wonderful company and lots of knitting.

Wandering around in pattern world

2009-06-06T10:40:00.006-05:00

After I finished the Hemlock Ring I thought for sure I'd start a pattern that I had really had planed to do for a long time. But, NNNNOOOOO. Found out that I wasn't in the mood for it. Have you been at that place before? So I spent days going through Ravelry. Every pattern, everything I had in favorites, etc. Finally I thought ok, I just need to knit something, I don't care what it is. (not like I don't have a few things on the needles right now, but they didn't interest me either) So I started a Moebius scarf. Check out this really cool moebius pattern. It turned out really well. I will be making a lot of these for gift giving. The picture is about 2 rounds before I did the bind off.

So that filled the knitting appetite a little, but I was still hungry. So back to the search. A search that I was beginning to believe would not end. And to be honest, though I have picked up another project, it isn't the project that is taking care of the "one" project. The best that I can compare this to, it's like having a craving for your favorite food, and not getting it for a few weeks. You eat things that you like, but it isn't THE thing you crave. So in the mean time while I am searching the THE project I started the first block on a Barn Raising Quilt
by Shelley Mackie & Larissa Brown. You can find it here.

But check out this website. If you would like to participate in something and feel the need to give of yourself. This is the site for you. This knitalong is for you. Click here. For a short time the pattern will be available for free. This is a picture of SenoraFuerte’s version.

It's a wonderful pattern to cut your stash down to a manageable size. I'm using all my leftover sock yarns. This pattern can be done EVERYWHERE. I love it. Here is the start of my first block.

So while I wander around for THE pattern I will work block by block, sock by sock.

Hemlock Ring Blanket FINISHED!!!

2009-05-22T10:29:00.005-05:00

I'm really excited about finishing this blanket. You know how there are some patterns that you just "click" with? Well this is one of them for me. With that said, I have to say that I am not that happy with how it blocked, but that is because I used an inexpensive yarn instead anything close to what it called for. The person who is getting this, needed something that can be washed a lot and durable for a little rough handling. Using expensive yarn was not an option. Anyway, it looks wonderful, she will love it. (I'm just picky, or at least I've been told that. :-) )

Last night I took a few pictures of it. The lighting in the room was horrible so the colors are not true, but you can get the jest of it. The center is a buttercup color, then a light blue, (kind of like NC's blue) and then white.

If you are interested in the pattern here is a link. Brooklyn Tweed, also, there is a Group on Yahoo. There you can find an extended version of the chart to give you another few rounds.

Ok, now for the pictures....

One more thing, about this blanket. When I was 4 rows away from finishing. I messed up on the count and didn't catch it until I was done with 600 stitches. The whole row needed to come out. My heart dropped. I was on a roll and then I got in a hurry and messed up. The thoughts of taking those stitches out brought a wave and frustration and PO at myself. I put the blanket down and didn't even look at it until the next morning. When I picked it up, I knew that I needed to slow down, take my time and get back into the zone I had created. This blanket and I had a relationship. So I got a cup of coffee, sat at the table and started, stitch by stitch. I found the mistake about 3 inches from the beginning of that row. By changing my attitude, I actually enjoyed the silence of the house, that calm rhythm I had going and my coffee. Taking those stitches out became relaxing and then knitting the row correctly was no problem. Everything to that point had been so smooth. Now I have a story when I look at that blanket. Something more to remember it by, a personal experience between us. It was a blessing for me.

Blessed Be

For the love of knitting

2009-05-13T11:48:00.006-05:00

Lately I have been doing a lot of knitting for friends that are going through some rough times. Even though my life isn't easy right now, these ladies are facing some terrible obstacles. I know they are strong and will make it through no matter what, but they will be changed and I pray for the better when all is said and done. No matter we have going on, we have so much to be grateful for. While you knit today, think about all the things you have to be thankful for. It will make your day so much better.

Everyone knows that I love Entrelac knitting. And I was fortunate to find on Ravelry this great pattern. Triangle Entrelac Shawls by Diane Conroy . This was the perfect shawl to make for my friend Suzan. She's a tiny lady and needed something big, snugly and warm. This is a wonderful pattern, easy to knit up and Diane also has some other Entrelac patterns that you might be interested in.

Update: 4/14

My friend sent me a picture of her and the prayer shawl/blanket. She looks great with it.

Once I finished the Triangle Entrelac Shawl, I started Jared Flood's Hemlock Ring. This is also a gift for someone. I have done a lot more work on it, and I love how it's coming together. I have made the inside a light yellow, and then change out to a pale blue. It's coming out really well. You can find the pattern info not only on his blog but on Ravelry.

I'll be posting more pictures soon.

Blessed be

Pictures from Stitches South 2009 Atlanta

2009-04-27T10:50:00.004-05:00

STITCHES South 2009 Atlanta

We had such a great time. We saw some beautiful yarn and talked to so many people. My daughter and one of my knitting students went with me and since it was our first time to Stitches we oogled over everything. LOL. I don't think that they had ever seen so much yarn in one place. ;-)

Well let me take you through the pictures.

This is a closeup of Tradewinds by Creataively Dyed Yarn. Color: Java. it's 100% superwash merino. 500 yards of beauty. You can find her on Ravelry also. Her user name is Creative, and she has a group. Here is her link. http://www.ravelry.com/groups/creatively-dyed.

Here's the full hank picture. I got the ball winder out this morning and while I had my morning coffee I got this all ready. Now I have to find the perfect pattern.

This is called Rick Rack by Interlacements. It's 1200 yards and hand dyed by Judy L. Ditmore. It's 100% Rayon which I've not used before, but they had a shawl made up in this and it was breath taking. So this is shawl bound.

This is the full shot of the yarn.

Break time with the goodies. Just behind were we were sitting was The Knit Witch's booth. I had a great time there.

On the way out Victoria wanted a picture by the socks. Though we got in a little trouble for it, we still got the shot. LOL. OOOOOPPPPPS!

This is my daughter Sara and me leaving. I didn't want to go. But my feet and wallet insisted. They just didn't seem to have a sense of humor.

And here are the "girls" Victoria and Sara. They had a ball. I am so glad that I had a little part in opening up more of the knitting world to them. They are great knitters and great women.

So that was our Market Day together.

Stitches 2009 and Ravelry

2009-04-25T16:39:00.002-05:00

OMG, what a great time I had today at Stitches 2009 Atlanta. I had my daughter and one of my knitting students with me. It was great. I hope they enjoyed it as much as I did.

Not only did we see some of the most beautiful yarn, I got to talk to some of the ladies I know from different Ravelry groups I'm in. One of the fun things was watching the demo of the Knit One Below knitting. I got to meet the author, Elise Duvekot, and got her to sign my book. I am really excited about making the socks out of this book. I mentioned that I was a knitting teacher and she handed me a stack of the free patterns for the Knit One Below Scarf, to share with my students. She was extremely nice.

So right now I am working on pictures of the goodies I got, very soon I'll have them posted. Right now, my feet are up and I'm requesting a margarita.

Stitches 2009 in Atlanta

2009-04-14T19:04:00.002-05:00

I am so EXCITED!!!!

My schedule is cleared and I can go at least to the Market.

I wasn't sure if it was going to work out but it did. Very cool. The thoughts of it being about 20 minutes from where I live and not being able to go was driving me nuts. ;-)

This weekend is the Georgia Renaissance Festival and the next Stitches. It's going to be a great month.

Don't forget...

2009-04-09T07:42:00.003-05:00

Ok, so in my excitement and the fact that I'm just not use to doing things this way. That's my excuse.

I finished my Toe Up TOFUTSies. That part was great, until I realized that I had done the bind off too tight and I couldn't get them over the widest part of my food. :-( So lesson learned, when doing toe up socks get a bigger needle to do the bind off so you don't have to frog the bind off and add more yarn. Oh and try them on before and during the bind off.

He's turning 20!!!

2009-04-05T15:52:00.006-05:00

One of the crazy things I started when my kids were little was if a birthday fell on a Monday, (which isn't a very fun day for a birthday) we would celebrate all weekend. Well, GT's birthday is Monday (tomorrow the 6th) and we have been celebrating. Yesterday we went to Longhorn Steak house and had a great time and great food. Today we went to the King Tut exhibit in Atlanta

It was a wonderful experience and we had a lot of fun. I stood there in front of this huge statue and just could not believe how old it was, how beautiful it was and that it was actually in his tomb. There wasn't any part of it that wasn't amazing. If you ever have a opportunity to visit anything like this please do it will be well worth it. When we finished we headed off to Wolfgang Puck's Express Restaurant. Dang they serve a huge amount of food. But it was good and I have a doggie bag to snack on tonight!

Knitting wise, since I didn't' drive I got to knit in the car, so I finally started the cuff on the TOFUTsies. I know that wearing those will be a lot of fun. I looked at all the socks I have queue on Ravelry I have no idea which pattern I'm going to pick. Probably what I'll end up doing is looking at my stash and letting the yarn decide.

Hope you are having a wonderful weekend.

Blessed Be

Spring, I love it!

2009-04-04T16:10:00.006-05:00

Even though it's taking me a little while to get back into my routine here in Georgia, I am so enjoying Spring. Everything is new and fresh and the air smells good. We've had some good rains and the blooming trees are fantastic this year.

On the knitting scene, I've just about finished my Two at a Time TOFUTsies. about another inch of the leg and then the cuff. I really love how these socks feel on. Can't wait to get them on. They will be great for Spring.

I also have started a Friendship/Prayer shawl for a friend of mine. She's only 30 years old and is facing some serious breast surgery. They have to do a couple of experimental surgeries before they can say she has or doesn't have cancer. It's crazy what these doctors put people through. Anyway I am making her the Triangle Entrelac Shawls
by Diane Conroy .

This is a close up, but I am making it pretty big so she can wrap up in it and snuggle. I'm using Jo-Ann's Sensations Rainbow Classic in what they call Red/Turq Multi.

While I was in Tennessee, I exchanged some yarn that I had bought too much of for something totally out of my color scheme. I've been really trying to get out of ruts, so I picked this....

If you haven't tried knitting with Heritage, you should try it. I think you will enjoy the experience.

Blessed Be

Back Home

2009-03-23T10:21:00.006-05:00

Hello,

It's been awhile... again. But it's not because I'm bored with blogging. Back in January I got a call from my mom she needed to have another surgery. This time it was for a knee replacement. She needed to have her other knee done. So I've been in Tennessee since January caring for mom again.

Tennessee has turned into my second home, though at some point I would love for it to be my first home. ;-) It was beautiful watching Spring come to the Smoky Mountains. I made a lot of new friends and got to spend time in my favorite yarn/spinning and weaving store. I have some pictures that I will be putting up showing the snow on the mountains. If you are ever in Gatlinburg, TN. please stop in and see Nancy at the Smoky Mountain Spinnery. She carries some of the most beautiful yarn and roving. You will not be disappointed. In fact you may want to just stand there and take in all the beautiful colors.

While I was up there I got to work on a couple of projects. One was my first pair of socks for my son. I totally made them to fit his feet and they turned out a lot nicer than I expected for my first "man" socks. LOL. The details are on Ravelry. I also worked on a blanket that I started some time back. I keep it there at mom's so I have something to work on. Also I got to buy yarn! Some of it I have posted in my stash on Ravelry.

I'm hoping that over the next couple of days I can add more pictures and totally update my blog. I miss blogging and I miss all the wonderful replies and the fantastic knitters.

Blessed Be

First finished project in 2009

2009-01-18T11:21:00.004-05:00

I finished my toe up socks last night. I'm so excited.

They were hardly off the needles before my daughter had them on her feet. I did good to get her to slow down and let me take this picture. LOL. She loved them. I kind of had a love/hate relationship with them. But they won't be my last pair of toe ups. My only wish is that I had done both at the same time.

Details:
2 hanks of Knit Picks Memories in Carnival (from stash)
US 2 needles (Knit Picks Options, 2 circulars)
Pattern: Lifestyle Toe Up Socks - No Swatch Needed by Charisa Martin Cairn
Short Row heel

Blessed be

New Year, New Yarn, Finished Socks

2009-01-14T15:17:00.005-05:00

Happy New Year to all of you who read my postings. I hope that it's been a wonderful
14 days for you.

Since my last post a lot has happened. 2009 has started with a blast. I've got several things on the needles right now, but I finished my Monkey socks New Year's eve. How cool is that? That was my goal and I did it. Below are a couple of pictures for you. I can truly say that this won't be my last pair. I love them. I think I may do my next pair something solid or nearly solid.

Recently I was in Tennessee taking mom to the Ortho Ped Doctor to schedule her next total knee replacement (Jan. 27th) and while I was there I went to my favorite place in the Smoky Mountains. Smoky Mountain Spinnery. I have talked about this shop before and I just love it there. When you walk in it feels like you have the softest blanket wrapped around you. It's just an awesome place for me. You all know how crazy my life has been, so going in there is almost like a sanctuary of quiet and peace.

Well while I was there I made a couple of purchases. My son wants a pair of socks so he picked out this fantastic Heritage. These colors are so him. I promised him that I would start these while mom was in the hospital, because he made me promise to do a lot of relaxing knitting while she was there.

Then I seen where Nancy had woven a beautiful shawl out of Nikki . I just had to have that yarn. The colorway is nearly all my favorite colors. I have no idea what I will make out of it yet, but for now I am just enoying the color.

My other news, last buy not least, I finally started my first pair of toe up socks. Yup, I have one done and the second is just about finished. The jury is still out on how I like doing them though. Speaking of jury duty. Guess where I'll be next week. Yup. Sitting. they won't let me knit, so I'll reading and I have some patterns in my mind that I will write out. So I'll be knitting in my heart. LOL.

Have a great day,

Blessed Be

2009-01-01T13:23:00.005-05:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

From my heart to yours: I hope everyone has a very blessed New Year and that your lives are filled with love, that you are equipped to face everything that comes your way in 2009 and that experience joy beyond your wildest dreams.

On a quick knitting note. If you have seen my Ravelry page. You'll know how how excited I have been about these socks and how I couldn't wait to get them done. It's been a long time since I went nuts over a pattern, but I really like this pattern and the yarn I used. Knit Picks Felici turned out to be wonderful. Once I hand washed them and blocked the sock, that yarn got so soft. I love how it feels on my feet. So below are the finished pics.

Oh I have one more thing, I've never made socks from the toes up before. (Yes, again I'm the last knitter on earth who has not done toe up socks or done a short row heel,) but this morning I did the cast on for my first pair. Pictures of those are coming.

Stuff and more stuff

2008-12-29T20:38:00.003-05:00

Can you believe that it's almost 2009? WOW. Again another year has flown by. Actually I'm looking forward to 2008 being over and getting a new beginning in 2009. But for now lets talk knitting ;-)

Since the picture below was taken I've just about finished the toes on my Monkey socks. Yes, they are my first pair, but they won't be my last. I love making these socks. If you haven't made these socks before OR it's been awhile since you made a pair, you have to get these on your needles.

And this, well this is the beginning of Bamboozled. It's a wonderful headband, and just the project that I needed right now. Something that takes my attention and yet I can knit for 10 minutes put it down and feel like I got my knitting fix for a little while. LOL. Click on the above link and check it out. I've seen several in all different types of yarn and it looks great. I just really needed to grab this purple yarn and do something with it. It's not my favorite brand of yarn, but this color is where I'm at right now.

On a more personal level. I've posted several times about my mom and her health issues. Yesterday I got a call from her that she has seriously injured her left knee (the one that should have been replaced years ago) and is pretty much confined to her couch. She has managed to get enough help from her neighbors until I can get up there (Sevierville, TN.) next week and take her to the doctor. She has pretty much got her mind set to going ahead and getting the surgery done which means for me another 2 months away from my home, family, dogs and life here in Georgia. Since I've been looking for a home up there anyway, I guess that I need to step it up and maybe not be so picky about what I'm looking for. Anyway, please keep my family in your thoughts and I'll keep you posted.

I hope and pray that each person who reads my blog will have a wonderful New Year, and that 2009 will be filled with opportunity for you and your loved ones, and that you will find love and peace in every endeavor. May everything your set your hands to do be blessed.

Saundra
aka Knitting Satori

Merry Christmas

2008-12-24T10:45:00.002-05:00

To all of you wonderful knitters, spinners, crafters and friends,
I hope that you have a very blessed and
Merry Christmas.

My Knitting Students

2008-12-19T09:30:00.003-05:00

I have to say that I'm truly blessed with some of the best knitting students in the world. They are great knitters and great women. Last night at one of my private lessons Victoria brought me a beautiful shinny green bag with a couple of goodies. Victoria is the same lady that when my mother had surgery in Aug. she fixed a huge bag of items that we would need while waiting at the hospital. She was right, we needed everything in that bag. It was perfect. And like that bag, her Christmas gifts were perfect.

Here are some pictures of the book she got me, well I have to share it with my daughter, but since it's my blog and she's my student it's my book. LOL. (just kidding) I've also picked out my first three projects I want to do. The hunt for the perfect yarn is on... Victoria, thank you again for the wonderful gifts and by the way, GT has the Starbucks gift card and wouldn't let me get a picture of it. I guess he's afraid I wouldn't share that either. hahahahahaha.

Neck Warmer Pattern

2008-12-16T15:17:00.004-05:00

Materials:

1 skein Boucle yarn of your choice (Bernat Soft Boucle)
Needles: size US 13
Yarn Needle
2 – 4 buttons. Chose a size that will fit comfortably through the stitches.

Finished size: approx. 24” x 7”

Stitch Abbreviation:
K: knit
P: purl
Sl: slip
CO: cast on
BO: bind off

Directions:
CO 17 st.
Row 1: Sl 1, P1, K across until there are 2 st remaining on the left needle. P2.
Row 2: Sl 1, K1, P across until there are 2 st remaining on the left needle, K2.
Repeat Rows 1 and 2 until desired length. Approximately 24”
Bind off
Weave loose ends
Attach Buttons: Space buttons out evenly across the edge. Make sure the buttons can slip through the knitted stitches.

*This pattern was made for my beginning knitting students. There maybe some bugs in this simple little pattern. Feel free to fix and pass on the pattern. I would love to see pictures of what you do with it.

I've been busy

2008-12-11T14:45:00.005-05:00

I'm a few minutes from leaving for a long weekend in Tennessee but I wanted to post a few pictures of what I've been doing. (when I'm not on Ravelry, LOL)

A neck warmer pattern for my knitting students. As they finish theirs I'll post pictures of them.

I LOVE these socks. If you are like me and think that you are the last knitter on earth to make a pair of Monkey socks (found on Knitty.com) go ahead and start a pair. You will wonder why you waited so long.

This is Cindy. She is modeling her "Beacause I Care" shawl I made for her.

From my family to yours

2008-11-26T09:53:00.005-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving

May you find moments of knitting time in your day and your heart full of gratitude for all your blessings.

Blessed be

Quickie

2008-11-22T10:54:00.005-05:00

Being under the weather always has a sweet side. That sweet side for me is that I have more time to knit. (I bet you all feel the same way too.) Anyway, I haven't had much of a chance to work on my Monkey Socks so that was my project to start with. Throughout the day I worked on everything that I have on the needles but these socks have my attention. Here is a picture of them. This was take the other day, but I wanted to share with you how they are looking with the Knit Picks Felici.

There are 4 of the lace rounds finished in the picture but I've finished the 5th round and I'm starting on the heel.

So it's back to knitting, letting the Day Quill work and sitting in my knitting chair.

Blessed be

I'm suppose to be in Tennessee

2008-11-21T14:40:00.005-05:00

My bags were packed, the Cruiser was ready, and my throat was so sore and my fever was 101.3 so I didn't get to go on my weekend trip. I really need to get away for a couple of days and check on mom. Plus I seriously need to go to the Smoky Mountain Spinnery. But mom sent me a few pictures to make me feel better.

So I'm going to fix me a hot toddy, kick back and knit, and sleep, and knit, and sleep... I may play on Ravelry some too. ;-)

Blessed Be

NC Scarf FINISHED!!!

2008-11-18T08:07:00.004-05:00

I have to tell you, I never get tired of seeing the expression on people's faces when you give them something that you have made. It's great. Words can't hardly describe it. Last night I got to experience that wonderful feeling again. I've been working on a scarf for my friend Jan, who is a North Carolina fan. So for her birthday I knitted her a scarf in her college colors. She loved it, and I loved giving it to her. I think though that her husband may steal it. LOL. He had his eye on it too, since he's also a NC grad. Here is a picture of Jan just after she opened her gift.

Jan had mentioned in the past that she is temperature sensitive and gets so cold when she is out and that she hates for her neck to be cold, so I made the scarf double thickness and a little wider so she could stay warm. I think it was a hit.

Knitters have the greatest opportunity to share not just their knitting talent but their heart with those around them through the things they knit. How blessed we are.

Blessed be

He did it!

2008-11-09T10:58:00.003-05:00

GT's brown belt test lasted a little longer than planned. It started on time at 9:30am but didn't end until 5:30 pm. It was a great, he did wonderful. Here is the picture of him receiving his belt.

GT's brown belt test

2008-11-07T19:07:00.002-05:00

Tomorrow morning bright an early my son will be testing for his brown belt in Isshin Ryu karate. It's been a long time coming and I can't begin to tell you how proud of him I am. His path has been very hard at times, but he has faced every mountain and overcome what he needed to. Though he's 19 at many times he has the maturity of a man who's experienced many of life's difficult lessons. From a western point of view he should have been angry, and made his decisions from an anger base, but he hasn't. He chose a higher road, (without my influence ;-) ) and because of that it's taken him a little longer to get to this testing point, but it's his path and he has done so well so far. Tomorrow his test is not just physical but mental and spiritual. He will have to dig down into everything he is to pass this test. Please keep him in your thoughts.

Testing time 9am until approximately 4pm ( I will have pictures)

Blessed be

Happy Halloween

2008-10-31T10:17:00.005-05:00

For my daughter and I this is our favorite time of year. So before I start posting about my knitting I want to wish everyone a very Happy Halloween. This weekend I will post pictures from the party we are going to tonight.

Now to knitting. For some strange reason I'm going through another phase of starting projects. LOL. Most of them are easy projects that will be finished in time to give away. Thank heavens.

Yesterday before my knitting class started a woman who works in the office there at Hobby Lobby walked in to chat a little and fell in love with the "Because I Care" shawl I'm working on. She asked me to make her one in black. So I got the yarn and started on it last night. Then, I remembered that in about 3 weeks a dear friend of mine will be having a birthday. So since she is a big North Carolina fan, I found some light blue and white and started her a scarf.

This scarf is going to be a little different that my others. I'm making it on circulars in a tube shape so it will be doubled and extra warm for her. It's coming together really quickly so I'll have it done in plenty of time. For a change I'll be adding fringe to it. It's been awhile since I did that.

From my past posts you all know that I recently started my Ravelry page. That is the best place in the world. LOL. I can spend hours there looking around, at the patterns, groups, yarn, etc. If you aren't there yet, you should go ahead and do it. You won't be disappointed.

I hope you all have a wonderful day, and that you take time to get in touch with your inner witch and have a fun Halloween.

Blessed Be

I'm growing up

2008-10-22T08:29:00.004-05:00

Yesterday I turned 51. I enjoyed turning 50 and being 50, but 51 has a kind of a lack luster feel to it. But, I had a wonderful day. My kids, I still call them kids, though they are 22 and 19, busted their butts to make sure I had a great birthday. I wish I could have taken pictures of the dinner my daughter fixed. OMG, Java crusted steaks with a perfect baked potato, veggies and all the trimmings. The steak melted in your mouth. It's officially my favorite steak in the world now. But I didn't take pictures because my camera is messed up. But little did I know that they had bought me a camera. It was ordered online and will be here today so I guess you can say that I'm still getting presents. LOL.

The other gift was something that I have wanted for a long time. The sock blank from Knit Picks. They also got me purple and a green Jacquard Acid Yarn dyes. I love those two colors together, it reminds me of Scottish Thistle.

We watched Iron Man, ate cake, (which I will post a picture in the next day or so, when my daughter sends me her pictures) and had just a fun, relaxed day. I will always have special memories of my birthdays with the kids. They make them the best gift of all.

Blessed Be

Back in Georgia

2008-10-14T21:33:00.004-05:00

WOW, it was just beautiful in the Smokies over the weekend. I have a couple of pictures to show you. From when we got there till we left to come back it was busy. I think we spent 90% of the time there out running the roads. Gatlinburg was just fantastic as always. I love that place.

While I was there I did find time in the evenings to finished my Alternate Moss Stitch socks. They turned out pretty good. Tomorrow I will give them to my friend Suzan who went nuts over them while they were still on the needles. LOL.

More pictures coming soon. (that is if I can leave Ravelry alone enough to come here and blog :-)

Blessed Be

Back to TN

2008-10-09T06:28:00.003-05:00

This afternoon I'm headed back to TN. I have a knitting classes to teach this morning that I just didn't want to cancel. These ladies are wonderful so I'm knitting and then traveling. I have to be back Monday, so it's not going to be a very long trip.

Mom hasn't been sounding too good on the phone and she needs to be checked on, and of course I've got to head to Gatlinburg to visit my favorite fiber store.

So I hope that everyone has a wonderful weekend and that it's filled with doing things that bring you peace of heart and peace of mind.

Blessed be,

My Ravelry

2008-10-02T07:19:00.003-05:00

The late bloomer to Ravelry here, loves it. I'm still working on setting it all up, but I've found all kinds of good stuff. Today at my morning knitting class I'll be telling all the ladies about it.

I've started another shawl to give away. This time I know exactly who it's going to. Many times I start a project and as I'm knitting on it, the person comes to mind, but after about 5 stitches I knew. There is a lady who lives close to my mom that is having some very serious health problems, and she has been on my mind so much. So the shawl will go to her. Here is a picture of the start of it. The first two pictures are of the right side, but the third picture is of what the patterns says is the wrong side. I really like how the "wrong side" looks. There is one other thing about this shawl that is nice. The pattern it's self knits up nicely and is easy to remember.

Well I'm off to knitting class, I have two new ladies coming to it this morning. I can't wait!

Blessed Be

Pictures for you

2008-09-29T06:49:00.006-05:00

Well I thought since I only have a couple of things on the needles right now, I'd get a few pictures of them up on the blog.

These socks are going to be sooooo nice when they are finished. I'm using Lion Brand's new Sock Ease yarn in Toffee. We'll see how the yarn wears pretty soon. LOL. The ribbing is a 4 stitch rib, with the typical 2 knit, and then the Moss stitch, that you have to see pretty much up close to enjoy, but I think it may become my favorite ribbing.

The next pictures are of a project I started out of frustration. For some reason knitting wasn't relaxing me so I got the drop spindle out a few weeks back and started hand spinning.. Then I decided that I wanted some yarn that was thick and thin, for the up and coming cooler weather. So I started spinning whatever I reached in and got. ;-) And this is what it's become. I'm naming it Neapolitan, since it reminds me of strawberry, vanilla and chocolate.

OMG, Ravelry! I know I'm a late bloomer and all that, but I have to say that I could seriously waste a lot of time there. LOL. I'm still getting setting things up and looking around but I hope this coming weekend that I can get a lot done on it. Keeping track of projects, needles, etc will be so nice.

I have one more picture for you. Everyone knows that my daughter is a Pastry Chef. (don't we all love her? ) But over the weekend she turned 22 and did her own birthday cake. Now let me explain a little about Sara. Since she was about 2 years old her favorite holiday has been Halloween. When she was 3 or 4 she wanted me to change her birthday to Halloween, so you can see where we are going here. ;-)

Blessed Be

Does anyone still come to my blog?

2008-09-27T12:06:00.004-05:00

After almost a year, it looks like I'm gonna be back blogging for awhile. It's been a couple of years of crisis and chaos, but I'm still breathing and still putting one foot in front of the other.

I finally did something today that I have wanted to do for some time and that's finally get into Ravelry. I had an invitation nearly a year ago and finally today I set my Ravelry account up. Now to fill it with all the goodies. It looks like a great place to hang out.

Well I look forward to hearing from you all and catching up on life and knitting. Oh one other new thing real quick, I got my maiden name back finally after a year of waiting. So if my name comes up it's different. Saundra McBride. ( how cool is that)

Happy Holidays!

2007-12-23T08:20:00.000-05:00

Holy cow, I can't believe how time has flown since I last blogged. Life has been good and that's why I've been away from the blog.

My mom who has some health issues lives in TN as many of you know. I have been up there with her taking care of her and we recently found out that she does not have to have her hip replaced. Her pain is from the sciatic and they gave her an epidural and gradually the pain is leaving and she can walk again. She will have to have her knee replaced but that won't be until sometime next year. We're all glad that she can walk again.

Knitting has been fantastic. Though I haven't really been doing as much as I would like I'm still making tams, socks, a couple of scarves and right now enjoying simple patterns that show off the beautiful yarns that I have. I've really been into colors and different combinations, trying to break out of that "same color" rut that find myself so often in. This year I don't know what I would have done without my knitting. It was my therapy, my haven, the place I could go to clear my mind. Knitting has kept me sane and been a lifeline. Anyway, I have pictures I've just need to make the time to get them onto the computer.

Also in my knitting life, I have to talk about my knitting students. (which is growing in numbers weekly) OMG, these ladies are a gift. I have some that I see weekly, some come to class and many are private students. I wish you could meet them. I can't say enough about these knitters, they are wonderful students and even more they are awesome women.

My Avon business is going great. I had no idea I would have so much fun with it. I've even gotten a few new knitting students through selling Avon. LOL. It is really helping me financially, which some of you know, got really tight in 2007. I never thought that starting a business for $10 would bring into my home what it has. It was a good decision.

As for the rest of the gang, Sara, GT, Gunther and Truman. They are doing really good. So for a year that started out so badly for us, it is coming to an end on a good note. We're stronger, wiser, happier, more confident, and so very blessed.

I hope that this holiday brings you the love you are looking for, the comfort your heart desires and the joy that you deserve.

Blessed Be

Thanksgiving

2007-11-22T12:54:00.000-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving

To all my knitting friends.
May you have a wonderful day, filled with friends, family and LOVE

Blessed Be

Please follow the link below

2007-11-08T20:51:00.000-05:00

Jenna Bush Bans Needles from Reading

I'm going to hold my voice on this one for a day or so.

I'm back!

2007-11-01T13:12:00.000-05:00

It's been a little over a month since I blogged. Shame on me. (sort of) Where the time has gone I don't know, but I do know that I've been busy, working, knitting, dog training, and just enjoying life. Being busy on my terms is a lot more fun than being busy on other peoples. So give me a day or so to organize my knitting pictures and you'll have something pretty to look at. And I'll throw a picture or two in of the "doggie boys."

Have a great day!

Pictures, Pictures and more Pictures

2007-09-27T06:27:00.000-05:00

I've promised you pictures and now I have them. They are proof that I have been busy. LOL. By the way, before I post pictures, thank you to everyone who said a prayer or kept Truman in your thoughts. Tuesday he was finally taken off his antibiotics and will be checked again in 4 weeks to make sure he can staff off of them.

Ok, here we go. Lets start with yesterday. My daughter turned 21. We had a great day. It went way too fast, but we had a lot of fun. Her friends and co-workers really showed how much they cared for her. It was wonderful. Now she wanted to make her cake and she did. She loves Oreo's so she made a Oreo cake with Oreo pudding filling. DIVINE.

We met up with her boyfriend at the new Starbucks and spent an hour there cutting up and having a good time. (bad picture, taken with cell phone)

Then a few weeks back we went to Tennessee to see my mom. I mentioned that we had went to the county fair while up there. Here is proof. This is their version of a petting zoo. Check out the goat on top of the turtle.

And I have been knitting. I've been on this Tam kick. Though I'm working on every project I have on needles trying to finish them. (I need the needles for other things and refuse to buy more) LOL. So here are a few of the tams I've done the past week or so. The last picture is a detail of the wool that I am crazy about. It's think and thin and just wonderful to work with. I got it at JoAnn's and made the tam in about 2 hours. I was excited.

I have one more tam started that is also wool, but is on size 3 needles and will be fair isle. I can't wait to get to the color work.

I've miss blogging. It's so frustrating to have just enough time in the day to read a few blogs and not jump in and participate. But, hopefully with some of the decisions I've made lately and getting my Avon business started I can make enough that I'm not running in a hundred different directions. By the way thank you again to those who signed up on my Avon mailing list. Very much appreciated.

No pictures yet

2007-09-14T12:07:00.000-05:00

Let me start out with what we've been up to. We've been traveling, knitting, worrying about Truman, working and joining Avon.

We went up and spend about a week with my mom in TN. It was wonderful. We went to a county fair and had the best time. Can you believe that I had never taken my kids to a county fair. We don't have them around here. GA has a state fair and I think that's about it. Anyway, it was a lot of fun. We also went to a little drug store that had the soda fountain / restaurant in it. I can't even begin to tell you how good the food was. And the people had to be some of the most friendly people I've ever met. I got to go to the craft area of Gatlinburg and visit spinners and knitters and came away with no purchases. But plenty of ideas and a few job offers.

Then it was back to reality. Truman is now on his third round of antibiotics. For those of you who don't know who Truman is, he is my 5.5 month old Great Dane puppy. He has a serious infection located between his vertebra's. Though it's getting better, it's not getting better fast enough of me, or the vet. We'll decide after this next round of meds what our next step will be.

Avon. Well my cousin has sold Avon and made a really good living for herself. I really hadn't paid much attention to it until I was up at mom's and see ever thing they offered, and seen their prices. Even paying full price I could cut what I spend on makeup, facial cleansers, moisturizers, shower gels, nail color and shampoo by 3/4s. Yes, you read that correctly, I can have my bathroom full of goodies for a quarter of what I am now paying. And the stuff is good stuff. I use the mineral foundation ( I use a lot of natural products) that you see on tv or at ULTA, and Avon's Mineral Foundation is less than half of what I pay. So I talked to my cousin and it only cost $10 to sign up. So I'm really excited. Here is my Avon website. www.youravon.com/sandramelton . Please go buy something LOL. Actually I would like to do this full time, but I gotta start somewhere. Oh and they also sale clothes, handbags, undies and all kinds of jewelry. I gotta tell you if I can shop from one catalog or one website and get it all done, I am there!

Now for knitting. I have for some reason gotten the bug to knit Tams. I've got three made all ready and ordered the yarns for my next one. I'm going to start making fair isle tams for gifts. Hell, I make sale them. Anyway, I'll have pictures of those soon. I've also made a few more washcloths. I love making those. While up at mom's I realized that it's about time to get both of the scarves that I started last year out and get those bad boys off the needles.

So be patient with me pictures are coming soon!

Knitting, Stuff and More Stuff

2007-09-01T11:31:00.000-05:00

Finally I have pictures.

Last year I bought some beautiful sport weight hemp and made soap pouches out of it for gifts. Well while I have been on this washcloth kick I remembered that I had some left over so off to the stash I went. And I had just enough for this washcloth. It's my own pattern and I will post it soon. Well actually I'll post it as soon as I figure out a way that I can either add a page or start another blog for just my patterns. (any suggestions or help in this area would be great appreciated). I'm going to name this washcloth pattern after one of my students. LOL. She'll know it when she sees it.

Then in an email from Knitting Daily I seen this book. I had to have it even though I had promised myself I had enough knitting books to last me a life time and I wouldn't really purchase anymore for awhile. I just had to have this book. I have a lot of family members that are very much into Eastern culture, martial arts and Eastern Philosophy. Knitting them kimonos will be the perfect gifts for them. I can't wait to pick one and get started on it.

Back in the Spring I started another Fair Isle Felted bag. Well finally I got off my ass and finished and got it felted this week. It didn't turn out as nice as I had hoped, but that's what I get for getting in a hurry.

here it is before felting

Now I have to pack a few OTN projects to take to Tennessee with me. The kids and I are leaving in a few days for mom's. Hopefully I have some quiet days of knitting in the Smoky Mountains ahead of me.

Blessed Be

Christmas is on it's way

2007-08-17T16:39:00.000-05:00

It's good to have friends that work in yarn departments. The girl who works in the yard department at the Hobby Lobby where I teach, showed me some new stuff. It wasn't even marked yet. In fact she was holding it in one of the boxes to be put out for me.

See me and her had been discussing some things I wanted to make as gifts for Christmas and when this yarn came in she held it for me. SWEEEEETTTT!

The red, beige and green will be wash clothes and hand towels that will be given with a long with a handmade bar of soap. (closer to Christmas I'll have pictures) I all ready have one washcloth made. LOL. You can see the beginning of it with the first ball of cotton up at the top. By the way I'm using blocks from the 200 Knitted Blocks book for my washcloths. That is one of the handiest books I have for quick ideas and patterns. I love it.

Now I have to decided what to make with the green and beige. I got that just because I loved the color. LOL.

Sad news, once again I have frogged the Black Purl sock. For some reason this damn sock is driving me nuts. I do believe though that I have found a pattern that will show the yarn off and still be fun to make. Not too complicated, easy to memorize and yet classy. Cross your fingers for me.

Just when I posted things were going good, things got crazy again. Ok stop laughing I can hear you. I know that you know exactly what I'm talking about. (it is a little funny) Seriously though I almost lost my new pup. You can read about on Gunther's blog. Gunther. And if that wasn't bad enough, one of the thorns in my flesh from earlier this year has raised "it's" head and started stirring again. But, it's all good, a pain in the butt, but it's still ok, because it's nothing compared to what the kids and I faced at the beginning of the year. And that just brought out the best in us. I will say that it is truly a shame that people take forgiveness as weakness.

Knitting again, has brought so much peace into my life. It has also brought some of the nicest woman you will ever meet. I can't imagine my life without them. They are such a precious gift. I am grateful for each of you.

Blessed Be

YO Scarf Pattern

2007-08-05T12:48:00.000-05:00

YO Scarf

Materials: Size US10 needles
Yarn: 262 yards of thin Ribbon Yarn (I used Hobby Lobby's Yarn Bee, Topkapi, in Tarsus)

Directions:

Cast On 17 loosely

Rows 1-10: Knit

Row 11: Knit 1 [YO 3 times, K1], continue across.
Row 12: K1, [drop 3 YOs from previous row, K1] continue across.
Row 13-14: Knit
Row 15: K1, [YO 2 times, K1], continue across.
Row 16: K1, [drop 2 YOs from previous row, K1] continue across.
Row 17-18 Knit
Repeat Rows 11-18 until desired length.
Knit 8 Rows
Bind Off loosely.

Hope you enjoy!

Update: please email me if you find a problem with the pattern. So far my students haven't but, typing it out I may have missed something in spite of the 10 times i read it over. ;-)

Knitting, Dog Shows and other stuff

2007-08-01T15:08:00.000-05:00

It's true, I haven't fallen off the end of the earth yet. This year has been something else so far, but I can say that finally life is beginning to be much happier. Though I'm twice as busy, I am happy and getting some knitting done, and going to dog shows and taking charge of areas of my life that I had let slack or thought was ok.

Anyway, I've got some projects going on. The yarn below is Kid Merino from Crystal Palace. It's for a shawl that I'm making for my daughter. The shawl is called Milady's Shawl, designed by Dee Jones for Alpine Meadow Yarns.

A little while back I was not really intending on buying any yarn I was just looking and there on Handpainted Yarn's website were these two beautiful lace weight yarns. They just somehow got into my cart and ended up in my mailbox. LOL.

And here is what I'm making. It's a variation of the Feather and Fan shawl. It's hard to see because of the wood background. But when it's finished I'll take a much better picture for you. We've been joking around about how these are the very colors of my new pup, T.

Details and a better idea of the colors.

You know I can't let this one go. LOL. Today is Gunther's 2nd birthday. Him and T have celebrate all day. We've been to PetCo, Starbucks and Petsmart. It's been a big day. I'll have more pictures tomorrow on Gunther's blog. Gunther, GT and I just got back on Saturday from a dog show in Greenville, SC. We have a great time inspite of my mistake. LOL.

It really feels good to be in a place in my life where I am feeling centered again. Where most of the people who made my life a living hell the first part of the year are long gone and dealt with. It's been an interesting spiritual ride, many lessons reviewed and new ones learned. But I'm just grateful for today. Grateful is such an overlooked feeling. It can be the entrance to such peace.

I'm back home, finally!

2007-07-22T08:40:00.000-05:00

Oh my goodness, what a trip. We ended up staying longer because of my mom's health and doctor's appointments, but finally here I am. It feels so good to be back home.

I got some knitting done while away. I finished the scarf that I was helping one of my students with and I got a huge portion of the Black Purl sock done. That sock was perfect to work on while on the road and waiting in doctor's offices. There's no pattern to it, just ribbing and stockinette stitch, but the yarn is magical to use. I don't think I have ever really gotten so caught up in the pattern of the colors before.

Did I get any new yarn while up there? Nope not this time, but I did come back with something. It wasn't really planned until the last minute.

Yup, Gunther has a little brother now. We call him "T" but his AKC name is Sir Hagan Tru, son of Shockin. The explanation of his name is the Sir is a reference to his father, Royale, Hagen is the mythological brother to Gunther, Tru is a reference to what the breeder called him, Truman, and the son of Shockin is the acknowledgement of the breeder's kennel name. But, we just call him "T". Here is a link to his sire CH Stone Valley's Rocky Raccoon CD, RE, CGC, TT, HIT and a link to his mom, Shannon's Shockin You Again. T, is 16 weeks old and will be in his first dog show in October of this year. He weighs 45 lbs as of yesterday (Friday).

Out of town

2007-07-12T21:13:00.000-05:00

Tomorrow my son and I are headed to a karate seminar in Knoxville, Tn. We'll be staying with my mom after the seminar. It's going to be a lot of fun. Except for the missing my daughter and Gunther part. Sara has to work, but she also gets to stay home and love on the big baby. ;-)

It's been awhile since I posted anything about my kids. Sara is still working hard developing her skills as a pastry chef. She's working anywhere from 8-10 hours a day and LOVES IT. She gets to work at 6am and have the most wonderful time. Now this totally amazes me, since she is the child who is up all night and sleeps all day. LOL. But, those big checks sure can motivate. She recently got a huge raise ( her second one this year) and can now qualify for her health insurance.

GT, is studying for the police department. His goal is to become a K9 officer. With his connections I wouldn't be surprised if he ends up higher than the local police. I have been surprised to find out that some of his friends are Search and Rescue people on Federal levels. He also has a buddy that is on the state level. So who knows where he will end up. GT has always been able to set his mind to something and get it. He is very determined, motivated and focused.

On the knitting front. I have changed my teaching schedule and will only be teaching at Hobby Lobby on Thursday mornings starting in August. My Monday night students are changing to private lessons so that will be a lot of fun. I think they will progress faster and acomplish more as private students.

I finished the lap blanket and I'm just about finished with the scarf I'm helping one of my students with and I'm taking the Black Purl socks with me to work on while I'm in TN.

So off I go, I'll be back the 18th. I'll have pictures and hopefully more yarn. LOL.

Froggin'

2007-07-07T09:25:00.000-05:00

Yup, I frogged the Black Purl sock. But it's ok, I started them again immediately and I love them even more now. I was using size 2 needles and when I tried the sock on I didn't like how it fit. SO, I frogged, changed needle sizes and like magic it's working out much better.

Now for the ribbon scarf. I have a student who started running out of time on getting her scarf done so I took it to finish for her. Here are some pictures of it. She is doing the alternate pattern that I wrote. The pictures don't do the ribbon justice, because it's more of a pale pink with a dark green and black.

If you happen to have a Hobby Lobby around this is the yarn she is using. It's really beautiful.

Lorna's Lace Shepherd Sock Black Purl

2007-07-01T19:16:00.000-05:00

Finally I have started the summer socks I wanted to start. LOL. Yup, mid summer and I said "what the hell, if I don't get at least the CO I won't ever get started." So here is a picture of what I have done today. I'm using Lorna's Lace Shepherd Sock in Black Purl and I LOVE IT!

This is the first time I have used this yarn and I am really enjoying how it knits up. Now for your opinion. Tell me what you like or don't like about this yarn and how your socks turned out. My biggest question is did they last longer than wearing them 2 times. Believe it or not I have made socks with some expensive sock yarn and worn them twice and found the heels worn. (Durability -100)

By the way, I've just about finished writing out the patterns for the Ribbon Scarf and Lap afghan. Hopefully after the 4th I will post them.

Have a great week and an awesome 4th of July!

P I C T U R E S

2007-06-25T14:03:00.000-05:00

I promised pictures and here they are. Of course I have to start out with my furry son's ribbons. LOL. The one on the left is the place ribbon and the other one is the qualifying ribbon. Now for knitting. (grin)

Here is the finished ribbon scarf. I LOVE IT. But, you know the next one I make will have changes in it. First off it's too wide. For us Southern ladies, we don't want to do or wear anything that might make us "glisten" a little too much.
This ribbon yarn is heavy and will make you sweat like a pig. LOL. It's definitely not a scarf meant for warmth, but as an accessory, so when I get it all written out, it will be half the width and not quiet as long. It's a quick pattern and will make a great gift.

By the way, it's made on size 10's or 10 1/2's and I got the ribbon yarn at JoAnn's a long time ago. But I was in there the other day and seen that they have some really pretty ribbon yarns.

Now for more pretty stuff. I have always loved looking at the Recycled Himalaya Yarns. They are just so full of color and personality. So when Patternworks had their Recycled Rayon on sale I ordered 2 hanks. I have no idea what I'm going to make with them. But I have them now and just enjoy the colors.

And finally. I have a distant cousin that just had her first baby. A little boy. Some of you may recognize this yarn from a previous blanket, but I have enough left over to make this Fan and Feather baby blanket. Since the picture was taken I have gotten quiet a bit done on it and have about another quarter of work to do.

So there we are. We're caught up on knitting and we are caught up on Gunther. LOL. Oh one more thing. If you are a dog owner let me suggest to you a lady who makes Tugz for all size dogs. Rescue Me Tugz. She makes no money on her dog toys, all of it is donated to different dog rescues. For the month of June she is donating all her money to the Great Dane Club of the Mid South's Rescue. Our rescue needs the help, so if you can order a $3 or $5 tugz it would be greatly appreciated.

Coming Soon (LOL)

2007-06-24T15:57:00.000-05:00

I am working on writing up the patterns for the lap afghan and for the scarf. So those will be posted pretty soon. I also got some beautiful yarn in them mail yesterday that I have to get pictures of to share. So I haven't forgotten the knitting world.

Things are getting better in around here. I've been doing some dog training on the side which is a hell of a lot of fun. I may pursue it full time because I am having a great time with it. I've also been working with Gunther and he has been in a few obedience competitions and won so that has been crazy. His next one is in July and we'll be traveling to Greenville, SC. While at the shows I've had time to do some knitting and I was amazed at the ladies at the dog shows that knit. Of course she it's a competitive atmosphere, you know after a while the conversation turns into a pissing contest of who knitted what and how difficult the pattern was and on and on. LOL. It takes all kinds. But, they are knitters, and for the most part fun to talk to.

So that's all I've got for now. Hold on and come back for pictures! By the way, just because I've not been posting doesn't mean that I haven't been keeping up with everyones blogs. OMG I've turned into a lerker!

Pictures

2007-06-07T06:11:00.000-05:00

They were slow in coming, but here are some pictures finally. LOL. The only thing that I didn't get a picture of is a triangular shawl that I made and gave away as soon as it was finished.

This pictures is of the fair isle bag that I started back in the Spring. Since this picture was taken I've finished the purple flowers on it and started another color section. I really need to get this done because I'm in serious need of a new tote.

In my Thursday morning knitting class I have several woman making prayer shawls and lap blankets, well you know how I am. I got inspired and started one too. ;-) This is a pattern that I made up and will be a lap blanket for the grandfather of a friend of mine who is in an assisted living home. He's 90 years old.

Another inspiration from a student. I have to thank Bev for sharing with us one of her new knitting books she bought. In it, is this cute scarf pattern made from ribbon yarn. Well guess what I just happened to have in my stash for a few years. Yes, I said a few years. And I wondered what will I do with this stuff, well it's perfect for the scarf. By the way, you all know how I love patterns that look complicated but really are simple. This one is perfect. I am getting so many compliments on this project all ready. The only thing that I will change on the next one is the width. I think it's too wide. 27 stitches on size 10.5US to give you and idea of the width.

So there you have it. Oh and I do have some new sock yarn and plans on getting some summer socks going pretty soon.

It's nice to post some real knitting stuff instead of personal stuff. (smile)

Jogless Stripes

2007-05-29T18:42:00.000-05:00

Today I got an email from one of my "graduated" students. She was having problems with knitting in the round and changing colors. So I found this information for her, and wanted to pass it on.

Jogless Stripes

I hope everyone had a good Memorial Day. For the first time in a long time the kids and I had a perfect weekend. I got to knit, and relax and drink Mango Margaritas. (fresh mangos, oh so good), grilled baby back ribs, had fresh corn on the cob and Sara made dessert. It was great. We laughed and had fun all weekend.

Hopefully I'll get off my butt and get some finished knitted pictures for you. Let's say, sometime time this week. (grin)

Something to read and think about.

2007-05-24T07:00:00.000-05:00

I have no idea who wrote this, so I can't give credit to them. But I would like to share this with you. I got this in an email this morning.

I have the right to ask for what I want.
I have the right to say no to requests or demands I can't meet.
I have the right to change my mind.
I have the right to make mistakes and not have to be perfect.
I have the right to follow my own values and standards.
I have the right to express all of my feelings, both positive or negative.
I have the right to say no to anything when I feel I am not ready, it is unsafe, or it violates my values.
I have the right to determine my own priorities.
I have the right not to be responsible for others' behavior, actions, feelings or problems.
I have the right to expect honesty from others.
I have the right to be angry.
I have the right to be uniquely myself.
I have the right to feel scared and say "I'm afraid."
I have the right to say "I don't know."
I have the right not to give excuses or reasons for my behavior.
have the right to make decisions based on my feelings.
I have the right to my own needs for personal space and time.
I have the right to be playful and frivolous.
I have the right to be healthy.
I have the right to be in a non-abusive environment.
I have the right to make friends and be comfortable around people.
I have the right to change and grow.
I have the right to have my needs and wants respected by others.
I have the right to be treated with dignity and respect.
I have the right to be happy.

Have a wonderful day! And thank you to those who encouraged me to just go ahead and start those summer socks. I have plans for sock knitting this weekend.

I no idea what to title this. LOL.

2007-05-21T05:59:00.000-05:00

Life's road lately has been pretty up and down hill. Well maybe not lately, more like the first of the year. But things took a strange turn over the weekend. And you don't know how much I would love to share with you about it, but for legal reasons I have to sit here with it all by myself. But, lets just say that for some people rushing head on into things can prove to be disastrous.

I on the other hand believe that I have found a new home. Now to get out of this one. LOL. You know all those hours of knitting, looking at those needles and each stitch, not looking up at the things around here I could have been doing is catching up with me. Actually, it's more like going through boxes, closets, drawers and stuff like that. We regularly clean out our old clothes and things we don't wear, but some of this stuff was packed away to keep when the kids were little and have to be gone back through. Anyway, back to the house. It's a beautiful contemporary home on a wooded corner lot, 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, loft, den newly painted, new carpet and stainless appliances. I just love this house. And most of the colors they painted are colors that I adore. So now I have to get this house cleaned up, a few repairs and sold. I am so motivated to get it all done now.

In the knitting world, I am still working on the second prayer shawl. It's coming a long slowly. But it's very relaxing. I have this stirring in my knitting soul, to start a pair of light weight summer socks, but I feel bad about the fact that I have two pair of socks on needles sitting here looking at me. I guess because they are very detailed and I couldn't just sit down and knit without really thinking and watching the pattern, that I got burned out on them. And the fact that they are heavy Fall and Winter socks. So we'll see about the summer socks. I really miss the days where I could knit for a few hours at a time with no interruptions. But maybe there will be those days ahead again.

Mother's Day

2007-05-13T18:38:00.000-05:00

Happy Mother's Day!

It was a perfect day in my house. We had great weather, good food, lots of laughs and presents. LOL. But most of all we had a lot of love. I am so blessed to have the two kids I have and that's the best Mother's Day present of all.

I hope your day was wonderful and filled with all the best.

A No Picture Post

2007-05-04T04:44:00.000-05:00

The fast pace around here is now the norm. Like I have mentioned in the past we've been dealing with a lot of change and closure on things because of a decision my EX made. One day soon I will share the whole thing. Now his life is wonderful and he is happy, but it's at a great cost and he doesn't even realize it. His kids are the price.

Like I have said before we are moving, some where. We are staying in GA. With Sara's internship at the bakery and GT about to finish homeschool and take his GED, I can't see moving out of state. We have so many friends here and our roots are pretty much dug deep in the red clay of Georgia. We've been looking at house and some of my friends have been taking time out of their days and going and looking for me too. I'm still trying to make a dent in what to get rid of and what to keep. Some of the furniture is beautiful expensive furniture we got when were got married and now I can't stand to look at it. So it's going first off.

Ok I don't want to talk anymore about that let's talk about knitting. About the only knitting I have been doing is on a shawl. I will take some pictures of the first one soon. I started a second one Monday night. Nearly all my knitting students are making shawls. We are all giving them away. I have some wonderful knitting students, each of them bring such a great energy to the classes and we have a good time. I look forward to them so much. I can only hope that I give them when what they give to me.

And for those who know Gunther. Gunther is now 21 months old about 127 lbs and maturing into a find boy. His training is on going and he has been the therapy in the world for what we have been going through.

What has my attention is ...

2007-04-25T16:21:00.000-05:00

Since the first of the year, life has pretty much sucked with moments of happiness drizzeled in. So my attention has been very divided. I have been making some big decisions and that has been tough but good. One of the decisions is that we are moving. I am not sure when, but we are moving and now getting the house ready for it. Below, are some pictures of what I have been working on. All I can say is thank heavens I'm an art major, because most of the projects are HUGE art projects.

The first picture is the laying out of the mosaic tiles on the window sill in my bathroom.

Here is a detail of the corner pieces.

Now for the grout

After the first cleaning of the grout

And the final picture

The next project will be the risers on the steps from the dining room to the living room.

Done

2007-04-18T09:59:00.000-05:00

Finally a picture. LOL. Sorry about that everyone. I am so busy and by the time I have a minute to blog, I'm too tired. I'm really sorry.

Anyway, yesterday I got some pictures of my finished vest. It's been done about a week. I love it. If you ever need a quick, pattern I really suggest looking into the Oregon Vest, it's great. BUT, if you have been a reader of my blog you know I always change a few things. The only thing I changed on the vest was how many rows you do for the neck. Since my neck is cold all the time, I increased it to fit my neck a little better. My next one I'm going to make it longer and leave off the pockets.

I mentioned that things are busy around here. They are and I'm exhausted. I haven't really been knitting that much because when I sit down I always fall asleep. LOL. Hopefully in the next few weeks plans will get made and I'll have a schedule that will all knitting and blogging. I sure miss keeping in touch with you all .

Happy Easter

2007-04-08T08:48:00.000-05:00

Happy Easter to all my knitting friends. May your day be filled with lots of love, knitting and good food.

Some times it just makes you feel better

2007-03-30T09:52:00.000-05:00

Like many knitters I need another book and yarn like a hole in the head, but some times it just makes you feel better. Getting a new book with new projects and then finding some yarn that perks you up and gets you excited again, about not just knitting but you find you are actually smiling late in the day when your ass is usually dragging. So some times even though you shouldn't have, and some times when your yarn stash is over flowing, it's a good thing to make the purchase. So here we are. this is what I got in the mail today.

and then I ordered this.

yup, it's Lorna's Laces Yarn: 2 skeins of Shepherd Sock #27 (Black Purl) 80% Superwash Wool, 20% Nylon. Out of all the socks I have made I have never used Lorna's Laces Yarn. So I'm treating myself. I can't wait till it arrives.

Finally Pictures, See I Can Still Knit

2007-03-24T09:19:00.000-05:00

Here are a few pictures of what I have on the needles. The first ones are of course another fair isle bag. I haven't really had the chance to work much on it until the other day and so Thursday I did the purple stripes, yes, those are two different shades of purple, but my camera though that it would be creative. Then Friday I started the leaves and there will be flowers after that. Then way down at the bottom is the cabled scarf. I'm using Caron Simply Soft Shadows for it. Hobby Lobby had 3 skeins in their discount area which was pretty good time. LOL.

Down Sizing

2007-03-17T06:12:00.000-05:00

Today's word is down sizing. That's what I've been doing. Cleaning out. I can't begin to tell you how many bags and boxes we have taken to the different donation places around town. It's been good for the three of us mentally also. Giving is always a wonderful way to bring healing into your life.

I've also been job hunting. Yesterday I went for and interview at Petsmart for a Trainers position. I sort of got the job, we have to work some scheduling problems and of course I have to pass the drug test. I'll keep you informed about it of course. The cool thing about it, is that I would be able to have Gunther with me all the time. The bad thing is that I'm going to probably have to stop teaching my knitting classes. That has me completely upset. My knitting students mean the world to me. What I'm trying to do is see if Hobby Lobby has any other days open for classes. and then work it around the Petsmart schedule. I have to give Petsmart an answer Monday.

Knitting, well for some strange reason I decided to pick up the Oregon Vest again, and I'm almost done. All I have left is about 8 inches on the right front and then it's all about the finishing. Then I'll start back on my socks. I am missing them. LOL.

Thank you all for your thoughts and prayers. Please keep them coming. We are doing ok, but some of the changes we are making and the decisions we are making aren't so easy. Since we believe that everything happens for a reason and that rocky times are what make us strong, holding on to those beliefs give us some stability. Our problems aren't as bad as what some families are facing this very day, we have so much to be grateful for. But changes, even good ones, can be painful and stressful. I have been so proud to see both my kids, standing and being strong. Wisdom rolling out of their mouths and making so much sense. They are becoming amazing adults. And you know what, we never see how bright we can shine until the shit hits the fan. (and we're shinning, actually we maybe glowing. ) LOL. But really, thank you so much from all of us and keep up the thoughts and prayers a little longer. Blessed be

Today's Title Is: No Title

2007-03-05T09:20:00.000-05:00

I've been a bad blogger but I have been keeping up with my blogger reading. I love going around to all the blogs and looking at the fantastic knitting going on, or going to Great Dane blogs and seeing the pups. I find it relaxing and a wonderful way to get my mind off what is going on here.

Here is a mess. Some I can't and won't get into for legal purposes. Because evidently things that are written on the Internet can be used in court. I'm not saying I'm going to court but I will say that things with the EX are progressing to the boil over the edge of the pot stage. And from that, my kids are stressed, I'm stressed, I'm stressed for my kids, it's just kind of crappy right now. So it's not that there isn't anything to blog, it's that my brains are about to enter the mush level and it's hard to be perky and excited about the knitting I'm doing.

I am knitting, I have 2 pair of socks, 1 fuzzy scarf, and a beautiful cable scarf on the needles right now. The sad thing is stress just removes all the energy you have and by the end of the day I don't really feel taking pictures. I promise you though, that I will get the pictures soon.

Life has this funny way of side swiping you when you least expect it. And you know what, that's ok, because that's where you find out how freakin' strong you are and how smart you are. But for me, my weakness is seeing my kids go through it too. At least we have each other and so far, they are hurt by what has happened (which I will tell you when I can) but they are making good decisions and keeping their heads about them.

So now I have dumped (something I HATE doing) enough and I'm headed out to look for another job. Yup, I'm gonna have to look for something part time because since the beginning of the year I have lost 2 really good graphic clients. I'll let you know how this adventure turns out.

I'm Selling...

2007-02-25T13:55:00.000-05:00

I don't know if any of you would be interested but I'm selling an Electronic Row Counter. It's a fancy one. I have never used it. So if you are interested you can find it here on eBay. If you would like it and don't have an ebay account let me know and we can work something else out.

A Question For All You Spinners

2007-02-22T14:51:00.000-05:00

I have been bitten by the spinning bug. We knew it was coming and the day has arrived. So I thought, who else better to ask about this, all my knitting and spinning friends. So here is some info that might better help you, help me.

1. I'm clearly a beginner, but it won't be long before I will want to advance and do more than basic spinning.
2. 98% of the time I am drawn to sport weight or DK weight yarn, so that's what I want to spin. (Sock yarn is a must)
3. Portable will be a must.
4. Reliability a must
5. I'm on a budget.
6. Is there one company better than others?
7. What are the odds on getting a used wheel at a descent price that isn't needing tons of work done to it?

Ok, that's a good start, I hope. I spent last night looking through Spin Off magazine and going to all the web sites listed and all the spinning wheel websites. I hit information over load. Then I realized there is nothing like personal experience, and you all have that experience. So lets go shopping for my first wheel. ;-)

Blessed Be

No Title, Just Stuff

2007-02-17T10:44:00.000-05:00

Back before I left for TN. I felted the fair isle tote I was working on. I bought handles for it and they looked TERRIBLE beside it, so I thought I better go ahead and get a picture of the Over Felted Bag on the blog. Yup 3 extra minutes came make or break you sometimes. It's not un-usable though. I still plan on finding some handles that will go with it. What happened was when I was felting it, I got side tracked by an upsetting call from the EX. By the time I was off the phone the damage had been done and my bag turned into a very tightly felted fabric. Actually it went from tote size to handbag size. LOL. But I will save it. I'll get those handles and probably give it away because it reminds me of that damn phone call with Mr. X. The good news is while I was in TN a box of wool came from Elann.com with the yarn for my next fair isle bag.

On to better things. I finished two more hats for the Dulaan Project and 2 Squares for Project Compassion. The hats I used two different wools. Lion Brands wool and Patton's Classic Wool. I don't know if you have ever used the Lion's Brand wool before, but in my opinion the Patton's felts so much nicer. Maybe because I'm just use to it. But, I made two more of the Felted Toddler hats and the one made from the Classic Wool looks so much better. My squares I used Debbie Bliss DK and let me tell you that yarn is a pleasure to work with. It feels so good.

My socks are coming along. Cross your fingers but I'm hoping to have them done next week. I figure that gives everything that will interrupt me time to do their thing and I can get on with the important stuff, like knitting. LOL.

It has been a crazy few weeks. I'm finally starting to feel like myself again. I think I would have went nuts if I hadn't had my knitting, my knitting friends and my knitting blogger friends. I hope that we as a knitting group next take for granted the power that we have to help each other, even those that we have never met face to face, still have such an important place in the well being of each person they contact through the blogs. I really love you guys, you're the best!

A whirl wind

2007-02-10T07:15:00.000-05:00

The past 9 days have been totally crazy. And here I was hoping that 2007 was going to be kind and gentle to me. HA. But, there have been so good things and that's what I want to focus on, because that's what keeps me going. So now the story begins.

I had originally planned on leaving the Thursday before mom's birthday. (her birthday was Feb. 3) But, bad weather was coming in so I picked Sara up Wednesday night and we took off to TN. Remember now, that Monday I had posted about not being ready for the trip. LOL. I got ready and in a hurry. Wednesday we made it to mom's about 8:30 pm. It was a fun trip and we only had a little flurry of snow here and there.

The day of her birthday we had a full day. It even included time for me to go visit the "spinning lady", Nancy at the Spinnery in Gatlinburg. OMG. I am so hooked on this spinning stuff. Nancy made it so easy and I just completely love her store. She has spinning and weaving and knitting and just so much great stuff. She even opened up some of her new Spring yarns and showed me. I could have stayed there all day. So with some practice, I finally have something to share in the spinning topic. I also have a few pictures of my first attempts when I get them transferred to my computer I'll post them too. I finally feel I can do a little justice to the "goodies" that Hockeymom sent me, so that is what I am aiming for.

While there in Galtinburg we ate at the Park Grill. If you ever have the chance to eat there DO IT. I suggest the Moonshine Chicken. Delicious. They also have some outstanding ribs.

Well we made it home Monday and thought we would have a week of routine. Silly me. No way, Monday night after doing a small load of laundry I noticed water coming out of both my sinks, like over the top of the sinks, and the laundry room was flooded and starting to pour into the kitchen. Yup, pipes backed up. Roto Rooter couldn't make it till the next morning and then the next story started. They drilled, they cleaned and then Friday they dug a hold that is about 7 foot deep and 8 foot wide in my side yard. The picture is the beginning of the dig. 11 hours later my part of the pipes have been fixed and now the county will have to do their part. In fact it was because of the problems with the county's pipes and connections that I had my problems. So I'm sure a new chapter will start this Monday on dealing with them. So for two nights so far, the kids, Gunther and I have been in a hotel at night. I can't be begin to tell you the total financial cost of this, but it ain't pretty. Here's a picture of when they first started the dig. Well there's the highlights. I really hope this week I can get my act together and into the routine that I am usually wishing a break from. LOL.

TN & GA

2007-02-07T17:40:00.000-05:00

Hey everyone,
Well I'm home and I have a lot to tell, but I can't right now. See when I got home yesterday, I found that my pipes were plugged up and water was ALL over my kitchen, laundry room, pantry, etc. I'm in the cleaning and dealing with the Rotor Rooter man. He said that they will have to dig my yard up on Friday. I maybe asking for donations since he said it would start at 28 hundred. Give me a day or so and I'll catch you up on all the woolly news. ;-)
Blessed be

Time running out

2007-01-29T14:03:00.000-05:00

This morning I realized what a nut I can be. Here we are leaving on Thursday morning, and I'm not one bit ready. LOL. So everything is getting put on hold today until some headway is made toward the trip. The bad news I still can't find that perfect birthday present for my mom, the good news is I have some spinning classes scheduled so I can learn to use my drop spindle without swearing too much. ;-). It's all about priorities. hahahaha

I did felt my bag. In fact I put it in the washer and totally forgot about it. It was like 2 hours later when I remembered what I had done. It's drying. What is funny is that amazingly it's still usable. It's not the size of a doll purse. But I won't have time to really finish it until I get back from TN.

ok, I'm off to shop some more, cross your fingers I find that perfect gift for the mother how has everything and is turning 70.

When Ever Bag

2007-01-26T12:05:00.000-05:00

Are you ready for a couple of pre felted pictures? LOL. I am just about 2 rows from finishing and I thought I'd get some pre felted pictures. Right now I'm planning on purchasing handles for it.

I am hoping that the random changes in yarn will add a little something to the bag after it's felted. Of course there is the possibility that after the felting you won't be able to tell. LOL. That would be funny. But this is just a fun bag anyway.

Some private life news. I am only sharing this because I would appreciate your thoughts and prayers. My EX, is acting up again. Without going into all the long ugly details, he is stirring once again and it making life disruptive and up setting for me and especially the kids. We will be fine but it looks like we might have to go through some more ugly before we get there. Life is just like that sometimes.

Blessed Be