KnitThisToo

A Charlie Brown Christmas!

2011-12-11T20:13:00.001-05:00

A Charlie Brown tree this year. We needed a table top size due to Breezy just starting to walk! The tree topper is a Koala bear puppet we have used for years! Can't see the lights very well. It looks great, really!! Nothing like the smell of an evergreen. I was able to get some branches for the mantle too. My sister has give my kids an ornament every year from places she travels to. 3 kids are one their own now so ornaments this year are those of the last 2 at home and a few of my own. I need to start collecting a few more or I my tree will be bare when they move out!

Please be careful driving though neighborhoods!

2011-11-12T10:55:00.001-05:00

My little Bella was hit. Fortunately she will be fine but I am so angered my the people that speed down our street and don't even live on the street. They are cutting through to someplace else.
I think I'll buy these and post them. Probably won't help though.

2011-11-10T12:58:00.001-05:00

I see it's been a while since I've posted. Wonder if anyone missed me! Just so you know I've been real busy with this little lady, my granddaughter, my little Breezy! No, that's not her real name.

She's almost 11 months old and beautiful!

Before.....

2011-08-06T12:12:00.005-05:00

I got this Vintage Stylaire Step Stool on the side of the road a while back. It's been sitting on my back porch. I started stripping the paint when I first got it then never got back to it. So, here I go again. The seat, back and some trim was painted red. I've removed some of that and it's yellow. I am sure yellow is the original color so I plan to repaint it yellow. Some no brain person painted the chrome and the top of the two steps gray. It comes off the chrome well with a razor and steel wool. And it's in great shape.
Here also is a picture found online of what it probably looked like originally. Someone on Etsy is selling this for $85. I'll keep mine!

Refinishing

2011-08-02T21:45:00.004-05:00

I've refinished lots of furniture in the past but it's been a while. Now that my daughter has her own place I am making a guest room. I needed a dresser and prefer antiques since they are likely solid wood. Found this on our local Craig's List and snagged it for $30. I think it's maple. It needed light sanding and staining. It's missing the mirror but we have one that will be fine sitting on the top.

KNITTING update.....

2011-07-20T09:43:00.007-05:00

I should at least prove I'm still knitting. Here are some works in progress. A cardigan called, 'Bel Air' by Anne Hanson, another cardigan 'White Pines' by Amy Christoffers, socks from the book, Knitting Vintage Socks by Nancy Bush, Na Craga an Alice Starmore pattern in her Hebridean 3 ply and the back of the Kaino vest in Berroco Ultra Alpaca. Too many I know! But believe it or not for avid knitters it's not so much.

More Sewing?

2011-07-20T09:30:00.002-05:00

I don't like to sew but it seems I need a few things so I'm at it again. My backdoor needed a new valance. My kitchen is red and green and this was the perfect fabric. Let's see who in the family will even notice!

A Little Sewing

2011-07-03T16:14:00.003-05:00

I needed curtains for a small room that happens to be the home of my desk, rocker, spinning wheel and my knitting. It's my place. I found fabric that I really love and bought all they had which was all you seen in the photos. Just enough for valances. Sewing is not my favorite thing to do although I used to quilt and sew a lot. I think you can assume knitting is my favorite.

PYREX saved the day!

2011-06-25T13:53:00.003-05:00

YES! Another Pyrex find today after an exhausting morning of yard sales and thrifting. Found this little pretty at the very last place.
I was searching with my daughter today as she is getting ready to move into her first apartment!
If you need a Pyrex fix yourself check this site: Pyrex Vintage Patterns

My Pyrex Love!

2011-06-18T14:08:00.003-05:00

This is my little collection. I use all my vintage Pyrex too.
Then today I found these little beauties at a yard sale for a grand total of 75 cents each!

Na Craga Progress...........

2011-06-15T15:20:00.002-05:00

It's a nice change knitting with worsted weight yarn. This will go much faster. It's an easy pattern to remember.

Our newest family member....

2011-06-11T12:34:00.001-05:00

Bella!

Another Starmore .... Na Craga

2011-06-08T17:35:00.005-05:00

Just started this sweater. Another Alice Starmore
Virtual Yarns pattern. I am using her yarn as well, Hebridean 3ply. It's a navy blue called, "Storm Petrol'. Almost finished with the ribbing. I love all the cables and I miss knitting on my Inishmore I did last year so I thought I'd start another.

I am also working on a Kaino vest (Ravelry Link) in black using Berroco Ultra Alpaca for my sister and an Ann Hanson sweater called, Bel Air using Wollmeise for me.

Rosemary Bread

2011-05-09T20:09:00.003-05:00

Mondays are spaghetti night at our house. We typically have scout meetings so it's just easy to have a set plan. Tonight I made a quick rosemary bread and it was wonderful.
2 1/2 cups bread flour
1 tablespoon yeast
1 teaspoon sea salt
1-2 tablespoons sugar
chopped fresh rosemary
1 teaspoon garlic powder
a little less than 1/4 cup olive oil
1 cup warm tap water
Mix, knead, shape, rise 45 min to 1 hour, slice across the top, brush with egg white and bake at @425 - 15 minutes turn oven down to 400 and bake 10 more minutes.

Honeybee Stole

2011-04-14T11:32:00.005-05:00

I finally finished something I have been knitting on for a while. That's only because of other knitting. I wish I could be a one project knitter but that wouldn't be fun. This pattern is by Anne Hanson at Knitspot called the Honeybee Stole. She is an amazing knitter and designer. The yarn is Knitpicks Merino/Silk Bare in fingering weight.

Baking Scones while Baby Sleeps!

2011-03-09T11:38:00.003-05:00

My favorite blog is Gumbo Lily. Love her pictures, the place she lives, her handwork and her cooking!! I grabbed her scone recipe yesterday and made them this morning. These are Stone Gable Scones made with sour cream and I added cranberries to some of them. These are a softer scone than I prefer but still good! Here locally there is no better scone than the cranberry/orange scone from Mill Mountain coffee and Tea and it must be from the downtown shop!

A Pair

2011-03-05T14:30:00.003-05:00

Just so you know there's a pair! Wollmeise has got to be the most fabulous yarn! Knit on a '0' it's a wonderful thick fabric. Next in this yarn a 'Pesto' green cardigan. Still trying to decide on a pattern.

Finished Sock

2011-01-16T15:16:00.002-05:00

The pattern is from Nancy Bush's book, Knitting Vintage Socks called Gentleman's Fancy Socks. Yarn is Wollmeise Twin in Clementine. Knit on a '0'.

Kaybree is home and healthy!

2011-01-07T19:11:00.003-05:00

I should offer an update on my grandbaby Kaybree. I apologize for not doing that before now. She is doing great now. She did stay in the NICU for close to a week. Now she is a healthy, happy baby. I saw her today and of course she is beautiful!
Mom and Dad both have time off together with their daughter. That's been wonderful.

BABY KAYBREE

2010-12-22T08:38:00.004-05:00

Thank you everyone for the congrats! I would like to ask you to pray for Kaybree. Last night she was put in the NICU due to breathing problems. They had to do a procedure to release air in her chest. Mom goes home today but Kaybree must stay. You can imagine the devastation that this brings for mommy, daddy..... and grandmommy! We are praying for complete healing and that she is home by Christmas!

Announcing Kaybree Saige

2010-12-21T11:04:00.001-05:00

My very first grand baby!! She's beautiful and healthy! What a wonderful Christmas gift!

Starmore's Roscalie

2010-12-13T12:38:00.004-05:00

It's finished! Steeking may not be for me. It turned out fine but I am not sure about the loose ends from the steeks. I hid them as best I could but it's not as nice as I'd like. Maybe I am just a little obsessive about the wrong side!!
Fair Isle knitting though is very gratifying.

The Featherweight

2010-12-13T12:24:00.007-05:00

Finally finished the Featherweight Cardigan. It turned out great. 3 skeins of Wollmeise 100% in the color, Compari Orange. Fabulous yarn!!

Knitting update

2010-10-22T11:18:00.003-05:00

Been a while but I'm still knitting away! My Roscalie Vest is ready for me to cut the steeks. I'll get with a friend for support before I tackle that.
I've knit on a few things off and on but most recently concentrating on my Featherweight Cardigan. Pattern is found here on Ravelry
I'm using the Wollmeise fingering weight in three colors. Getting ready to start the second color which I'll be alternating. I love the construction of this. Top down, raglan sleeves and I'll make them 3/4 length. Sleeves are now on holders while I knit the body. Too bad Autumn will be over before I finish. It will be perfect for Spring too.

Contentment

2010-09-16T08:16:00.004-05:00

I think contentment is something we all struggle with. What can we change, what can be different? I read this yesterday and it's good advice.

"Enjoy the blessings of this day and the evils of it bear patiently, for this day is ours. We are dead to yesterday and not yet born to tomorrow. A contented mind is the best blessing a man can enjoy in this world. If in the present his happiness arises from the subduing of his desires, it will arise in the next from the gratification of them."

from a republished very old book, The Royal Path of Life, 1883

My son took this photo. Creative I think!

2010-08-05T16:17:00.002-05:00

Saw these interesting mushrooms on my 5 mile walk Monday morning at the base of a tree. They're huge! The close-up reminds me of something in outer space.

Amazing Grace - Rhema Marvanne 7 yr Gospel singer

2010-07-31T13:48:00.000-05:00

Moonflower

2010-07-28T11:49:00.004-05:00

I've had these plants for years. They propagate like crazy. So many that I pull several seedlings up. I love them though. They must have a few varieties because some pictures online look a little different. Check this video out. It's blooming in real time! Moonflower
I'll have to go watch mine tonight!

Honeybee Stole

2010-07-21T15:03:00.002-05:00

Coming along on my Honeybee Stole by Anne Hanson too. Her patterns are so exquisite. The yarn: Knitpicks Bare in fingering weight, wool/silk and it's wonderful!

More Starmore!

2010-07-21T14:54:00.004-05:00

Making some progress on my Roscalie Vest. Finished the first repeat of 54 rows. The fabric is really taking on the color and designs now. I steam blocked it to make sure the stranding wasn't too tight or loose.
I'm happy with it!

After the Rain....

2010-07-17T13:58:00.006-05:00

There's something about butterflies that cheer you! A few of these were fluttering around my butterfly bush after the thunderstorm today. Not a bad shot for a low-end digital! Now if I had a really nice camera with an awesome zoom lens well...............

Summer Flowers

2010-07-15T09:29:00.004-05:00

Roadside Lilly's, you've got to keep them tame for the yard or they will take over.

Rose of Sharon, beautiful I think. I've got a pink one too. They are also prolific but I just pull up the seedlings or transplant them.

Next in my list of Alice Starmore patterns....

2010-06-19T08:31:00.004-05:00

My current knitting is the Roscalie Vest. Yes, knitting with wool in the summer using autumn colors! It came as a kit from Virtual Yarns here Roscalie Vest It will be my first steeks too. Yikes! I did change the ribbing to a corrugated rib. I didn't care for the pattern directions and wanted it a little wider.

Knitting Pleats....

2010-06-19T08:17:00.002-05:00

I kept seeing this shawl on Ravelry. I love the look of pleats. Finally I saw one in this color and with this yarn. I had the Jaeger Extra Fine Merino on hand for another project I had since decided against. It's not blocked yet. I see it making the perfect shawl for a cold winter night. The pattern is here Mara Shawl Link is on Ravelry. Or here Madeline Tosh on the web.

Finished! Where's Old man Winter when you need him?

2010-05-18T21:45:00.002-05:00

I think this is one of the nicest knits I've ever done. I love it! I look forward to wearing it a lot this winter.
The pattern is, Inishmore from Alice Starmore's Fisherman's Sweater's book. The yarn is Blacker Designs, Ryeland Aran wool. Knit on size 4 and 5 needles. Neck knit on a 3.
Now onto another design by the same author!

My Knitting Space

2010-04-15T22:30:00.004-05:00

We've done a bit of moving around the house and I've now got a cozy knitting area! It's a small room with all windows on two walls and French doors into the rest of the house. There's a Dogwood Tree right outside the window so I think I will hang a bird feeder. Of course Esther is enjoying it now!! I'd eventually like to get a more comfortable chair but if I do that I might do more napping than knitting!

Vintage Chair

2010-04-02T09:31:00.003-05:00

Here's the 'AFTER' photos. I love this chair! The upholsterer called it the 'Rock of Gibraltar' of chairs. It's going to last forever. I'm thrilled with the result. Take a peek below on the Feb 25th post for 'Before' pics. Isn't the wood beautiful?

A whole new perspective on 5x5!

2010-03-27T09:28:00.000-05:00

A Knitted World?

2010-03-21T12:28:00.001-05:00

My Silly Girls

2010-03-17T13:01:00.002-05:00

Fabric hunt this weekend

2010-02-25T09:14:00.005-05:00

I'll be on the hunt for upholstery fabric this weekend for this beautiful old chair. I couldn't buy a new chair made as well as this or one more unique. I hope I can find something suitable and in a vintage style too.

5 Year Old Pianist and that's not all......

2010-02-13T13:38:00.000-05:00

More snow.......

2010-02-06T10:07:00.004-05:00

The snow is still falling today. Beautiful as it is the snow does cause problems, traffic accidents, power outages both of which can cause the demise of the innocent. That's the tragic part. I read in our local paper this morning that a man and his son were killed on I-81, hit by a truck as they stopped to help another driver! Very sad, do keep this family in your prayers.

My concern in my own little world outside my house is my Blue Spruce! I've been trying to keep the branches cleaned off so the weight will not break them. My Dogwoods are heavy too and much older that the Spruce. In the photo you can see a very large Pine tree fell yesterday morning. And that's before still much more snow! It's directly across from our house on a steep hill that is quite the attraction for sledding. Fortunately the tree is not in the way of everyone having fun.
The last snow we had a leak inside the house due to some ice that formed on the roof preventing the melt off to run in the proper direction. It pooled instead and came through the roof into a closet! Not horrible and relatively easy to remedy (my oldest son climbed out and knocked off the ice) but can potentially happen again. Now, in the spring we have a closet that needs painting! With utility bills rising and money tight for many I sure hope no one encounters more 'fixit' situations as a result of the snow.
Yesterday I went for a long walk around my block and down the alley through freshly fallen snow. No tracks but mine. Fun! I came to what looked like in the distance a fallen tree but then realized it was tall Bamboo heavily laden with snow. I stood under it and gave it a shake and they popped back up to their tall stature and I was left covered with snow. I felt like a kid! Good for me since I was feeling better after a migraine the day before. I think another walk is in store for today! I think too I need another try at a snow angel since this ones wings didn't move.

One down and one to go....

2010-02-06T09:21:00.003-05:00

With this crazy weather and the fact that I lost a pair of mittens recently I needed a new pair. This was an interesting pattern called, "Manly Mitts" another Knitty.com creation from Summer 05. The cuffs I changed a bit and did a K1tbl, P1 instead of the K2, P2. I really like how the knit stitches stand out when you Ktbl. Obviously black is hard to photograph and you can't see the cuffs very well. I knit the smaller size, it offered two sizes thinking a small mans mitt might be just fine but it's snug. I hope it stretches a bit if I block them.
A friend recently made a funny comment. "Can you imagine the winter we would be having if it weren't for global warming?" Here in Southwest VA we have had more snow this winter than in the past 20 years I think and even snow in December which is really rare. Anyway these mittens prompted using my favorite mug to photograph them!

Not Really a Hat ...........

2010-02-02T15:35:00.006-05:00

My hands needed a break from the Aran sweater I'm knitting soooo ..............I have one of these already but wanted a different color. I like wearing them instead of a hat. The pattern is called, Calorimetry found at knitty in the winter issue 2006. Strange word so I looked up the definition, Calorimetry is the science of measuring the heat of chemical reactions or physical changes. Calorimetry involves the use of a calorimeter. The word calorimetry is derived from the Latin word calor, meaning heat. Now you know the 'rest of the story'!

Cables and Twists

2010-01-27T12:27:00.005-05:00

I am slowly making progress on the Alice Starmore sweater called, 'Inishmore' from her book, Fishermen's Sweaters. I do love it but the twisted stitches are a killer on the hands. I am a bit past the 2nd repeat and in my guestimation I'll need a little over the 3rd before I start the armhole decreases.

Cables on either side of the center panel.
Center panel.
Front or Back, both the same at least to this point.

Starting Up......

2010-01-05T12:19:00.003-05:00

I cast on New Years Eve. another Alice Starmore pattern called Inishmore. It's in the Fishermen's Sweaters book as was my Kinsale that I finished last month. This is an aran pattern and I am using a new yarn that was a gift from an online friend. It's a challenging pattern but it will be worth the work and beautiful when completed.

Finishing Up....

2010-01-05T12:10:00.004-05:00

This is a DROPS Design by Garnstudio
I love the access we have to their patterns. They are so generous when tons of them are free. This one is Design #108-22. I used Queensland Kathmandu DK which is a blend of Merino, Cashmere, and Silk. I love the tweed look and the colors.

Here's the pattern photo as well since my picture doesn't show the entire sweater.

2009-12-22T00:28:00.003-05:00

Amazingly Kim's 8 year old son is reciting this from memory! Henry Wadsworth Longfellow's, Christmas Bells.

I heard the bells on Christmas Day
Their old, familiar carols play,
And wild and sweet
The words repeat
Of peace on earth, good-will to men!

And thought how, as the day had come,
The belfries of all Christendom
Had rolled along
The unbroken song
Of peace on earth, good-will to men!

Till, ringing, singing on its way
The world revolved from night to day,
A voice, a chime,
A chant sublime
Of peace on earth, good-will to men!

Then from each black, accursed mouth
The cannon thundered in the South,
And with the sound
The Carols drowned
Of peace on earth, good-will to men!

And in despair I bowed my head;
‘There is no peace on earth,’ I said;
‘For hate is strong,
And mocks the song
Of peace on earth, good-will to men!’

Then pealed the bells more loud and deep:
‘God is not dead; nor doth he sleep!
The Wrong shall fail,
The Right prevail,
With peace on earth, good-will to men!’

Snow in December!

2009-12-20T09:10:00.005-05:00

Snow doesn't occur here even every year and rare in December and even more rare the 15 inches we got Friday night and all morning Saturday. I think people being stranded at home this time of year is a good thing! A few pictures from my front and back porch. My VW Beetle is almost unseen! Our street has steep hills at both ends so this morning with the temps in the 20's last night we are unable to get out. It also hasn't been plowed which is good because the moron that plows puts all the snow against our cars. We have no homes across the street only a stone wall running the length of the street. Wouldn't it make sense to plow the snow against that instead of blocking all the cars? The guy just doesn't think. A flip of a lever would switch the plow the opposite direction. I hope they don't come.

2009-12-14T19:58:00.002-05:00

From my hometown!
Norfolk, VA

2009-12-13T14:11:00.002-05:00

The trouble with setting knitting aside and coming back to it months later is that if you're like me you might forget how you something. I have just ripped out the toe because it doesn't match. I must have changed the directions and of course neglected to write it down. The picture looks finished but you might see the tip of the DPN near the toe of the right foot. After this post today it is my frustrating goal to make my toes match!!!
This is a Drops Design from Garnstudio pattern 110-42 socks with star pattern and knit in their KARISMA merino superwash. I love their site with tons of patterns and many free.

2009-12-10T19:00:00.003-05:00

A pair of 'Fetchings' for my other daughter-in-law. I knit them a bit longer on the wrist than written in the pattern. Paton's Wool. Pattern is at Knitty.com and from Summer 2006.

2009-12-10T16:33:00.002-05:00

The reversible chevron scarf is finished. My son chose the colors for his wife. I think she will be pleased!

She Has Way to Much Freedom!

2009-12-08T08:58:00.002-05:00

Esther

My Husband's New Business

2009-12-07T09:52:00.003-05:00

Approaching retirement age why not finally do something you really enjoy? He's a big outdoor cook that started through leadership in Boy Scouts which he still does. Now he's got his own little outdoor restaurant serving Nathan's Hot Dogs and sometimes BBQ which is smoked all night in an outdoor grill. He sets up at different Roanoke, VA locations with permission from private business owners. They are now calling him to come to their places! We are waiting for Roanoke City to change ordinances/zoning to accommodate all area outdoor vendors in January.

The Starmore "Kinsale" is finished!

2009-11-27T16:31:00.003-05:00

More that a few years in the making because of course I have knit many other things. I finally met a goal that I set to wear it on Thanksgiving. Wednesday night I was sewing seams. Just before putting it on I steamed the seams and I don't plan on doing any other blocking. I love it! The changes I made were picking up stitches for the sleeves. I did not want to sew in sleeves! Also, it was knit a little shorter. I didn't want the tunic length.
Now, for another Starmore pattern! And for those that hadn't read about this on my blog before it's called the "Kinsale" by Alice Starmore and can be found in her book, "Fisherman's Sweaters".

Can't go wrong with Koigu!

2009-11-19T14:36:00.002-05:00

This is for my daughter-in-law for Christmas. It's a reversible kind of chevron pattern. I've posted about the pattern before when I made one for my sister with left over Koigu I had used to knit my Koigu Keepsake Shawl. The melon or salmon color isn't quite so dark as it shows here. My son/her husband chose the skeins.
Ravelry link to the project page and pattern.

2009-11-17T08:51:00.003-05:00

"Love is what's in the room with you at Christmas when you stop opening presents and listen."
Bobby - age 7

This wonderful quote was in an email entitled 'What is Love?' with answers from 4-8 year olds. Who knows but I think it's quite good and full of truth.

A hidden gold mine!!

2009-11-09T20:32:00.003-05:00

A few days ago my dryer broke. It would run but not get hot. Since it's about 30+ years old I didn't think I should bother with repairing it. Checked Craigs list and saw one for $200 but a new one at Sears was $303. A local appliance store had used ones from $100. I had to think on all that. Then yesterday a friend called and she knew someone needing to get rid of one setting in an empty house. He'd sell it for $15! That's my kid of deal and it had to be newer than the current one in the harvest gold color!! What 1960's or 70's you think?

So .... my $15 dryer was delivered today. Delivered! White, clean and my favorite a Kenmore. I didn't even have to make arrangements for one of my sons to get it with their truck. I gave the guy $20 and still felt bad but we're currently strapped financially. Here's the fun part. When moving the old one we heard a very loud noise and thought it was rocks inside. We took the back cover off and found some pocket change. Gave it another shake and out comes more change. Turned it another way and here comes more!! After several shakes we ended up with $14.35. What a fun memory. All 5 of us standing around the dryer wondering how much would fall out next. You might want to go check your dryer!

A First!

2009-11-06T08:55:00.002-05:00

After 4 years the persistent love of a Siamese has won. Nellie the greyhound has always tolerated her 2 cat siblings. Rosie the cat even follows her dutifully when we go for a walk on our street but Nellie generally ignores her. Now, things have changed!

2009-11-04T12:38:00.002-05:00

This is a sweater I knit a couple years ago but had never taken any decent pictures. I have it in my projects on Ravelry but the lying on a table pic did it no justice. It's knit with Rowanspun Chunky. It's a very old pattern probably from the 70's-80's. It was shown just above knee length and worn with tights!! Yikes! I had a vision though and changed it up a bit. The buttons were a lucky find at the Goodwill on a worn out cotton sweater. I knew they would be perfect. It's one of those you want to wear all the time and I do.

The lyrics are simple and profound ..... listen!

2009-10-25T13:33:00.000-05:00

Today's thrifting

2009-10-17T15:12:00.003-05:00

I wouldn't normally think I needed this if I saw it in the store. But at a thrift store for $1.50 I needed it and it's never been used!! I knew what I'd do with it before I got it home too. It's not old of course and seems well made and sturdy. My KOIGU yarn will rest nicely in there.

Better than before....

2009-10-16T13:56:00.005-05:00

I had to make another .... Apple Pie of course. This one better than the last. Taste is essentially the same but the first one was 'soupy'. I followed the recipe but the flour content of 2 TB. was not enough. My friend Jody at Gumbo Lilly advised me to increase the flour to 1/2 cup. Perfect! My lattice top might be prettier on the first one though.

ETA: Uh Oh! It was supposed to be 1/4 cup flour!! Well, it turned out anyway! I did stack it pretty high with apples and juices spilled in the oven. And it's making an awfully good breakfast this morning!

2009-10-09T08:33:00.003-05:00

Wore my Paton's 'Must Have Cardigan for the first time today. I do love this sweater! This time of year it's cooler in the house than it is outside sometimes. It kept me warm all day! I'm glad I went with the two toned yarns. I love the 'rag' look. My changes to the sleeves and back seem to make the yarns work well together.

Tis the Season for Apple Pie

2009-10-07T15:19:00.007-05:00

The Better Homes New Cookbook was my grandmothers and has sure come in handy for me many times. It's in a binder form which is really great when you're reading a recipe as you cook. I picked apples last Saturday. First Saturday in October is 'Stayman Day'. This is the first pie of a few I hope to bake this Fall. Not bad looking huh? Pastries are not my thing but I think I can handle a pie!

2009-10-04T14:10:00.001-05:00

Salsa for Winter...

2009-09-26T21:21:00.005-05:00

I had the afternoon to myself so I decided to be a bit constructive and can some salsa. This is a wonderful recipe for Smoked Pepper Salsa. I don't remember where I got it. I used to make it often. We love salsa!

12 or more chipotle peppers
6 lbs. canned diced tomatoes
whole bulb garlic
2 med onions
half bunch green onions
3 fresh jalapenos
4 tablespoons cumin
6 teaspoons oregano
3 tablespoons sugar
2 teaspoons kosher salt
4 tablespoons olive oil
1 1/4 cups white vinegar

Soak chile's in boiling water till soft, chop. (I used almost a whole 7oz. can of La Costena Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce because I couldn't find dried peppers today). Saute vegetables, add spices and tomatoes that have been chopped in a food processor. I left a couple cans as is when opened so it would be a bit chunky. Simmer 1 hour. Add vinegar. Simmer another hour. Can per directions for tomato products. (Water bath for 10 minutes)
I had a some tonight on a Morningstar Farms Spicy Black Bean Veggie Burger and some tortilla chips. Excellent!

Back to the ole Gansey....

2009-09-16T17:22:00.001-05:00

Making some headway with my 'Kinsale'. An Alice Starmore Gansey. I didn't want to set in the sleeves so I did the math to pick up stitches at the shoulder. With a size 2 needle no matter how much I work on this it seems to take a long time to see some knitting done. It's knit with Rowan Wool/Cotton.
I WILL wear it this winter!

Bread Wrap

2009-09-06T18:49:00.006-05:00

If you're a bread baker you just might need a nice Bread Basket Liner for your bread. It's a great pattern by Kellelynne Hedberg Riley, (Ravelry links) easy and fun to knit too. It's knit with Elann's cotton/linen yarn called Callista. It's shown here keeping cozy a homemade loaf of wheat/flax bread.

So much better than meat and potatoes!

2009-08-25T07:02:00.004-05:00

Some nights the family just fends for themselves for dinner. Unfortunately they wouldn't eat this anyway! My dinner was red lentils with Israeli Couscous with cabbage and fresh from the garden chopped tomatoes. I seasoned it with curry, onion, garlic, kosher coarse salt and pepper. Homemade wheat bread, a little real butter and a slice of tomato. Very good and good for you.

2009-08-21T15:59:00.003-05:00

Just finished this 'Lace Prairie Shawl' for my sister-in-law that is dealing with cancer treatments for the third time. I am hoping it sparks a bit of comfort. The pattern is in the book, Folk Shawls by Cheryl Oberle. It's knit in KnitPicks Shine Sport. I've knit it wool and the cotton is great too.

New/Old Lamp

2009-07-20T11:57:00.003-05:00

I've been looking for a specific old milk glass lamp. Even though this is not the one I love it just the same. Even the shade is glass. I purchased it recently at an antique shop outside of Lynchburg, VA. This place was floor to ceiling and only paths to walk through and even sometimes turned sideways! One of those nice 'hole-in-the-wall' places. $25 less 20%

2009-07-10T11:20:00.002-05:00

Not a good photo but a really fun thrift find. This is an old Avon perfume bottle. I had one when I was younger. Cats and yarn just go together don't they? I thought it suited me now and even better that it's empty! $.79

Happy Independence Day!

2009-07-04T09:10:00.002-05:00

Another thrifty find....

2009-07-02T08:57:00.004-05:00

Don't you love those 'hole-in-the-wall' type thrift stores along the side of a highway? My sister and I stopped at one last weekend. I've been looking for older Pyrex and found these. I imagine it was a 'nesting' set so I am missing the medium sized bowl. All washed up they look new! The large one was on a bottom shelf full of dirt and spider webs. The smaller one found in another section of the shop both were $6.50. ! The pattern is called "Butterfly Gold". Check here Pyrex Vintage Patterns and get hooked yourself!

Patiently waiting for a CD!!!

2009-06-29T08:35:00.000-05:00

Better Pics of the sweater below....

2009-06-18T18:47:00.000-05:00

Finished and waiting for winter.

2009-06-17T18:13:00.004-05:00

Love the way it turned out. The two tones of Cascade's Eco Wool worked out well. The back is done in a stripe using both colors. I folded the sleeve over so you could see it since I changed the cables from the pattern for the sleeves. It's hard to photograph the dark colors and cables in the tweed yarn. So, now I'm waiting for winter to wear this quite often I'm sure.

Now back to the 3 shawls and another wool sweater I have on needles in various places!!!

Thrift store jackpot!!

2009-06-16T16:37:00.003-05:00

It was on my 'Hope to Find Wish List' and it came true today. A Le Creuset cast iron 2 1/2 Qt. pot! It's color is Chestnut Brown which is now discontinued. I bake wonderful artisan crusty bread in my larger Le Creuset and this one will get lots of use as well. Check them out Le Creuset

Another great find is an almost new Bialetti Espresso maker. Came with it's box but lacking the 2 cups and saucers. Bialetti

My new favorite blog

2009-06-16T08:47:00.002-05:00

I can't help it. This blog is just full of important information. Maybe it's because I've recently taken up learning to shoot a gun and now own two. What a step for me since a few months ago I never wanted a gun in my home. It's hidden and unloaded so it won't do me a bit of good if an intruder came in so I have to figure that one out. With curious boys it's a challenge.
Check it out Women of Caliber

Sugar or honey?

2009-06-08T14:01:00.004-05:00

I've started a collection without really realizing it. I always look for teaspoons when in thrift stores. Nothing fancy and I've only gotten one silver spoon. I love iced tea in the summer so they fit right in. Some are cheap and some from nicer sets. So far I've only duplicated one. The count at this time is only 10 and some I've left behind. It's fun looking!

Bread Gadgets

2009-06-01T15:20:00.003-05:00

One of the kitchen gadgets I recently found and love is a dough scraper. It's just a small piece of plastic but now indispensable when mixing bread dough of all kids. Also, a bamboo wide spoon or actually a small paddle. I've used that for years. Both pictured here. Rising is a quick loaf of what I call French bread that really isn't other than the shape. In the back is a loaf of potato bread I made a few days ago in my Zojirushi bread machine that is unfortunately now ready for the trash. It has tons of mold!! Yuk! That's the only bad thing about homemade bread is the short shelf life. Everything else about homemade bread is wonderful especially eating it!

The Cardigan

2009-05-26T14:19:00.004-05:00

It's coming along. Knitting on the sleeves now and doing them at the same time on one circular needle so at least it seems to be going a bit faster. I like the two tones and the 'RAG' look. The pattern is the 'Must Have Cardigan' by Paton's and I'm using Cascade's Ecological Wool.
I'm sending the pattern book on to my Aussie friend RoseRedShoes. She wants to knit one too and doesn't have easy access to the pattern. Check her blog. She's a great knitter and so much fun.

A photo with the sleeves very soon!

2009-05-11T08:15:00.006-05:00

Click on the link on the video frame cause the music from my blog interferes with listening to it here! Sorry about that.

Dogwood Blossoms and Beetle Bugs

2009-05-08T13:47:00.001-05:00

Fancy bathing again!

2009-04-30T13:46:00.002-05:00

My Redeemer Lives

2009-04-29T11:45:00.004-05:00

This is one of my favorite songs. Nicole C. Mullen is awesome. Her voice is powerful. Hear the song done to a portion of the movie, "The Passion of the Christ" here: Nicole C. Mullen
***********************************************************************************************

Who taught the sun where to stand in the morning?
And who told the ocean you can only come this far?
And who showed the moon where to hide till evening?
Whose words alone can catch a falling star?

Chorus:
Well I know my Redeemer lives
I know my Redeemer lives
All of creation testifies
This life within me cries
I know my Redeemer lives

The very same God
That spins things in orbit
Runs to the weary, the worn and the weak
And the same gentle hands that hold me when I'm broken
They conquered death to bring me victory

Now I know, my Redeemer lives
I know my Redeemer lives
Let all creation testify
Let this life within me cry
I-I-I know
My Redeemer

He lives
To take away my shame
And He lives
Forever I'll proclaim
That the payment for my sins
Was the precious life He gave
And now He's alive and
There's an empty
Grave!

And I know
My Redeemer lives
He lives
I know
My Redeemer lives
Let all creation testify
Let this life within me cry
I-I-I know my Redeemer

I know
My Redeemer lives
*I know my Redeemer lives*

*I know, That I know, that I know, that I know, that I know
He lives
*my redeemer lives*
*Because He lives I can face tomorrow
He lives
*I know, I know*
He lives
*I spoke with Him this morning!*
He lives
*The tomb is empty*
He lives
*He Lives! I'm going to tell everybody!!*

Honeybee Stole

2009-04-28T09:37:00.005-05:00

I've been wanting a white shawl or stole and have also had this pattern for a while. It's Anne Hanson's Honeybee Stole. The pictures here won't do it justice at this point but will soon be beautiful! I'm knitting with KNITPICKS fingering weight Merino/Silk, BARE.

Other knitting I've got going is Paton's Must Have Cardigan. I'm using Cascade Ecological Wool in a two-toned rag wool look. The back is finished and I am halfway up the left front.

2009-04-27T13:57:00.005-05:00

My 'fabulous fiber find' from a thrift store. Obviously not really fiber but certainly related. Says, "Burwood Products Co" on the back. I love it!! After checking online it looks like they might be from about 1965. I found some oval plaques similar doing an internet search selling for $36.00. Mine is a keeper!
It measures 16"X7"

A Little Treat

2009-04-18T08:08:00.003-05:00

If you've never knitted yourself a facecloth/washcloth think about it. Knit it in a day and immediately take a hot shower or bath and enjoy! Makes a wonderful gift as well. This one is knit in Reynolds, Sedona cotton, long ago discontinued. Try any fingering weight cotton or Euroflax Linen by Louet. The latter is pricey but a skein makes 2 and if it's a gift then of course you can justify it and you get one too!

Almost.............

2009-04-06T14:01:00.003-05:00

with the exception of weaving in all the ends and sewing up the side seams it's finished. What started out as a jacket turned into a vest. I'm happy enough with it. Now onto something new or actually a cardigan already begun.

Mission Falls 1824 Wool

2009-03-30T09:03:00.003-05:00

I'm on the last half of finishing this "Siobhan Vest" by Mags Kandis. The back and left front are complete. It started out to be the jacket version of the same name but I've changed my mind. The pattern comes from the Mission Falls book, 'Harvest'. Knitting on the front button placket, armholes, weaving ends and seams are going to be a pain!

What does the name mean? I wondered too.
SIOBHAN
Gender: Feminine
Usage: Irish
Pronounced: shi-VAWN

2009-03-10T21:57:00.005-05:00

I took a break from tedious knitting to something I thought would be easy and fast. This was definitely the ticket!! It's the "KAINO" Vest by Norah Gaughan knit in Berroco Ultra Alpaca. The pattern is in her Vol. 1 book. It's a great simple design. I love the ribbing down the back, the collar meeting in a point at the back and that it has no closure in the front. The pattern picture shows it worn with a belt. I did change the stockinette cap sleeves to a K1P1 rib and like it much better.

We finally got some...............

2009-03-03T12:47:00.004-05:00

SNOW! Not the depths like you westerners or upstate people but for us a nice treat. 4-5 inches at the most. Our schools get all crazy when the white stuff falls and were closed yesterday as well as today!
The tree is a beautiful Blue Spruce that I planted in my front yard a few years ago in place of a Dogwood that had died. At that time it wasn't quite 3 feet and now it is well over 5 feet. I live on a fantastic street in town with a view. There are no houses directly across the street but a stone wall like you would see along the Blue Ridge Parkway. We can see the far off mountain range and the downtown lights at night. Also, at night when you are able to open the windows you can hear the distant train run along the tracks. I do love that sound. It's quite soothing at bedtime.
Today's a good day for hot tea and knitting by the wood stove.

2009-02-26T23:06:00.001-05:00

Then there was the caller who asked for a knitwear company in Woven.
Operator: 'Woven? Are you sure?'
Caller: 'Yes. That's what it says on the label; Woven in Scotland.'

A Smile Just for You!

2009-02-11T09:38:00.002-05:00

Have you seen this? It was in our local newspaper this morning. I just love it. What a fabulous photo. You can see the article here: Koala Rescue

Step by Step

2009-02-11T09:26:00.004-05:00

It's slow going but I have made strides with my Alice Starmore, Kinsale sweater. Shoulders and neck are done. Yes, there are knitter's out there that have flown through this pattern but the tiny needles and so much K,P does hurt my hands. The pattern itself is not difficult at all just tedious. I've started a sleeve but then yesterday casted on for an entirely new project, KAINO, it's an Alpaca vest by Norah Gaughan from the

Berroco: Norah Gaughan Vol 1 (ravelry link). I needed a knit requiring less concentration and this has been waiting a while now. The yarn Berroco Ultra Alpaca in gray I purchased sometime back.

2008-12-28T14:04:00.002-05:00

I've been wanting to knit a 'tam' although the pattern I had in mind was a fair isle. Looks like I cheated and knit one much simpler in a solid color! It's still pretty and the fair isle tam is still on my list. Pattern is 'Meret' Mystery Beret by Woolly Wormwood found here Ravelry Link.