Zeneedle...needleart as life

Ready for the New

One of the many things accomplished this weekend was the creation of the "perfect" pomegranate martini.  (I do realize "perfect" may be in the eye of the beholder drinker.) After a conversation last Friday with Cindy (we have one almost daily via email), in which I longed for a G&T and she longed for the pomegranate martini (we won't mention that this was 5:30 in the morning), I started craving pomegranate juice (ok it was the martini I craved).  I decided to make one for my "end of the week" treat that night. As it turned out, most recipes (google was my friend) called for citron vodka and we had only plain…but we forged ahead and created by taste.  What we ended up with the first night was drinkable, but we knew the citron vodka had to be procured the next day and we did just that. Saturday night we were able to tweak what we had the night before and proclaimed it "perfect" and our drink for the "Summer of '08". 

Summer of '08 Martini
2 oz. pure pomegranate juice
3 oz. citron vodka (4 oz. if you like a stronger drink, I'm a lightweight)
1oz. Triple sec
1 oz. sparkling water with 1 heaping tsp. powdered sugar stirred in
1 tsp lemon juice (fresh or bottled)
Ice
Shake or stir together and pour sans ice.  Makes 2

Another part of the weekend was spent frogging a sweater. Have you knit a sweater, not really liked it much when done and then let it sit unworn?  In all the years I've been knitting I don't remember ever completely frogging a finished sweater.  I usually give them away, either to a family member or goodwill, and move on.  Once the knitting is done I am so over it.  It was my love of Beaverslide  yarn that made me face the facts about an unworn sweater and start the frogging process.

The sweater was only worn once and I didn't really like the fit.  It had been in the back of my mind to do something about it, but I'd put it off over and over again.  The time finally came when I was cleaning up the sweater cupboard and had the offender in hand.  With a little picking and pull at the bind off edge I was able to start the ripping process. It took 2 days of work to complete the job, but it was rather satisfying!

This is a first…the only time a sweater has been ripped and the yarn destined to be something new.  Only a little of the yarn was lost and I ended up with about 1000 yards.  It's ready to be soaked, kinks removed, fluff regained and lovely yarn for a new sweater restored.  Have you ever frogged a completed sweater and reknit?

Before any knittin'o wool happens around here, there will be more summer sweaters in the works.  NBT is >< this close to the finish line and the next sweater is lying in wait.  This may or may not be the last summer sweater on my needles, but it is the last one actively planned.  I'm talking about Gigi in red Cotton Fleece with brown trim, unless something else catches my eye.  Everyone loves Cotton Fleece and now it's my turn to check it out.

Where Did My Weekend Go?

The weekend pace was a bit on the manic side, which made a Monday a relief and a chance to slow things down.  If I had planned a Monday post there would have been no time to put it together and, as it was, my camera rarely came out of its bag.  A poor blogger am I.  The laundry is still in wait for a date, the house is a disaster (not too unusual, in truth), and sleep has been illusive.

Susan, CherylS, Miriam , Chris, Shelley, Stephanie and I had a chance to have dinner and enjoy each others company. Salt Lake was the last stop on Stephanie's whirlwind of a tour and, while we didn't have time to show her more of our fair city, we did have time to eat pizza, oh and laugh.a.lot! Pizza in Utah?, you say! (That's what Cara said.) However, it was better then the usual dregsforpizza we have around here and we all seemed to enjoy it...at least I enjoyed it. Stephanie commented that perhaps she and I had eaten more than anyone else at the table...the pizza was delish by my Utah standards and the salad more so.  Of course laughter makes everything taste better, anyway.  Spending time with friends is a great way to finish off a crazy, busy, fun weekend.

Yesterday was catch up day…a small dent made in the laundry (after a day of work), groceries procured, and restful sleep restored. I even had a chance to pet Moxie and to give Smith a kiss.  It's nice to have a man around who can entertain himself when need be.

Since knitting is easily portable and simple knitting grows quickly, I did make good progress (at least on Saturday) on the Blue-tiful (a great word coined by Vicki) Baby Blue NBT and finished both sleeves (because they are nice and short!).  The front is now actively on the needles and should be finished soon.  I can't wait to have this cute little T on my body!!

From the Ridiculous to the Sublime!

The best gifts either make you laugh or cry and the birthday gift from Shelley made me laugh out loud.  She really got me with this one.  Shelley and I have known each other a good long time.  Needlepoint brought us together and we also discovered we both liked to knit.  Shelley has better taste in clothing than anyone I know.  She has great style and confidence. It's always fun to see what she's wearing as it's sure to be fabulous.  Years ago I gave her a T-shirt that said, "Every Morning I Wake Up and Thank God for My Unique Ability to Accessorize!"  Another thing I really enjoy about Shelley is her sense of humor.

We were chatting a few days ago about when we learned to knit, which for both of us was a church function at around the age of 8.  Neither of us took to knitting back then, but we remember that one of the patterns we used was for a pair of slippers.  I do not remember ever finishing my project, but Shelley said she made a pair or two.  Friday night she stayed up late and knit a pair for me! (What a grrl won't do for a laugh.)  When I opened the box we both broke out in roaring laughter…the whole restaurant must have thought we were crazy.  I've been wearing the slippers around the house the last few days and they have been warm and fun.  How cool! How crazy! How ridiculously lovely! Thank you Shelley. They bring a smile to my face every time I put them on.

One of the most sublime gifts I've ever received came with the card I told you about on Monday.  You must have read Norma's post about meeting up with Ruby and Judy and looking through Ruby's gorgeous handwoven scarves.  I looked with longing at several of the scarves Norma showed in her pictures.  Judy also took a picture of the Ruby and Norma "in action" and the scarf on the table just jumped out at me.  All the scarves were as beautiful as jewels.  I never suspected the reason for the meet up was to find a gift for moi!  When I opened the package and pulled out this scarf I nearly burst into tears.  It is so elegant, so beautiful, and so thoughtful. I love it Ruby.  I love it Norma. I'll be wearing it throughout the year as a lovely accessory.

 

Look at the colors in the warp and fringe, as well as the sheen and the intricate pattern Ruby wove into the fabric.  This is such a lovely work of wearable art. Ruby designed the pattern and calls it "Reverberations", a name that perfectly exemplifies the handwoven fabric.   The warp (the jewel toned fringe) is Tencel and the lilac ground is merino/silk.  It's one of the most beautiful gifts I've ever received. 

There is no doubt in my mind I have the best friends anywhere. Thank you everyone for making my birthday week so special.

Take A Giant Leap

It was March 1, 2004 when I took a giant leap into Blogland.  I had been reading blogs, enjoying the community and comradery of bloggers, for about 2 months before I took the leap.  Four years have passed and it is startling to think of the way blogging has changed my life.  Many amazing friends both near and far have come into my life as a result.  I truly never expected the friendships to be so true, so strong and I never thought I'd meet so many bloggers face to face. Everything about this community amazes me…the generosity, warmth, caring, sharing can't be match anywhere by any other group.

With a Blogiversary comes a party and you're all invited! Parties mean party favors and, while I'm a little sad that I can only give out a few, we can still have a great time, don't you think?  I appreciate each and everyone on of you who stop to read and comment, whether it's daily, weekly, monthly, or just once in while. I appreciate those of you who read and never comment. You do count even if you don't weight in on a post. I know you're there and I'm pleased you stop to read.

To start the party, let's do the prizes first...

You'll love knitting Miriam's new Flutter Scarf pattern (your pick of a hard copy or PDF).  Miriam puts so much thought into her designs and she creates some of the best lace around.  You'll also receive a skein of Lark's alpaca/soy yarn. This yarn is so soft, so beautiful and it's also hand dyed by Anne of Wooly Wonka...a total Utah package!

A skein of Sherbet, a vibrant shade of STR light weight, which just screams summer and we're all in need of a little summer, eh?

This is a very big bump of Spinderella's thrums (easy to spin!) in a mauve-y shade…with a Barebones Spindle. (Must spread the spinning bug.) Another totally Utah package!

Other goodies will also be included in the gift packages....goodies like chocolate (and more!).

Now, here's what you must do to join the party.   

Last year you told me your secrets and it about blew me away…you were so open and generous and it touched me deeply.  This year I'd like to hear a story.  The story must be about the landscape, the place on this earth that brings you peace and joy.  Is it an exotic beach, a mountain top or is it your own backyard?  Maybe it's the city block you live on, or the park around the corner.  Tell me where it is (not necessarily the exact spot), describe it, what it means to you, and include how often you are able to go there. 

Three comments will be chosen at random for the above prizes, but I'm going to read every comment carefully and handpick the one that speaks to me, makes me want to pack my bags and head on out.  That person will receive a special prize (TBA).  So, get ready, get set and tell me where to go!

The contest is open until March 13th, the day before my birthday, and to celebrate that event there could be another contest and more prizes. On March 14th I'll announce the winner of this contest and we'll keep the party going.   

Let's party!!

Inspiration Everywhere

Many of you have given me (and this blog) the "You Make My Day" award. Knowing that you enjoy what I do each day is rewarding and, as any blogger will tell you, your comments (and visits sans comments) are very much appreciated.  It is you, all of you, who inspire me to knit, write, and post every single day.   My Bloglines list is very long and full of inspirational, enjoyable and fascinating blogs. It is impossible to break down the hundreds into a list of 10 or even 30….I know, as I've tried and tried, and even made a list by using the ABCs.  It's just too difficult to do and so, I will thank you for the award and tell you all to keep reading new blogs, keep posting if you have a blog, and know that you are appreciated, by many, for the effort you put into it. 

Project Spectrum, the Elements Edition (how I love that), has inspired me to knit with the STR Hot Flash that has been marinading in the stash. Most of you have never suffered, endured or felt the effects of a hot flash, but let me tell you, as the queen of the flash, hot flashes are aptly named. They can make you feel as if you have a brazer of warm coals heating you up from the inside out. Hot Flash is the perfect yarn for a pair of socks that will keep my feet toasty warm.

My sock muse hasn't been very active lately, so I decided to knit a sock I'd already knit some time back, Pomatomus.  The yarn and pattern 'felt' right together and, in one afternoon, good progress was made.  But, what happens when many muses come at you from several directions?  One must listen, right?

The first little voice in my head was telling me the pattern was too complicated for the portable, easy knitting I sought in a sock.  Since I already had a lace project on the needles, and many colorwork patterns for EPS dancing around in my head, I could see the little voice was right.  What to do, what to do?   Saturday morning as I dressed for the day, I picked up a pair of finished Monkey socks, one of three pair I'd knit, and, as I slid them over my toes and up my foot, I could see why I'd knit so many pair.  They fit very well and felt wonderful!  Hmmm (I thought), maybe I should knit another pair?   

Shortly after dressing, I was out the door and driving up the road while listening to my favorite DJ (he was subbing for another that day--ahhh, it was heaven), who was doing an all vinyl show. (Are some of you too young to know what that means?)  So many of my favorite songs, one right after the other, filled the car (and I cranked the volume nob!).  When the Rolling Stones Monkey Man came on, I knew it was a sign. Isn't everything related to our knitting?   That night I frogged the P-Sock and cast on a pair of Monkeys (with my favorite picot edging).  This is one HOT sock!  How perfectly it works with the Monkey pattern, much better than with the P-Sock, don't you think?  And how about that retina searing color!?

Good Memories

The minute I saw Norma's pee stop post I knew where it was.

When we visited New England we made a stop on the way back from a day of sight seeing and you can bet Smith and I were impressed with the unique, fun and very creative rest stop.  Every State in the Union should take note of the way Vermont treats its visitors and residents.

Thanks for taking me back to such a fun time, Norma!

Positive Vibes

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for the good thoughts, well wishes and prayers.  I'm still not totally on my feet, but getting stronger every day.   Nothing feeds the soul like the love and support of friends from near and far.  Please don't worry if you don't see a post every day.  This is meant to be fun, entertaining, a little slice of my life, and the goal is to keep it that way, not burdensome.

Saturday was such a beautiful day...the type of winter day one doesn't mind it being winter.  I did get out for a short walk and quick photo shoot.  It was wonderful to walk under the clear blue sky and breath the crisp, cold air.   Don't you love the way the mountain is hidden behind the curtain of lacy branches?  The bones of trees, which can only be seen this time of year, bring to mind lace at every turn. In fact, much of winter brings to mind elegant lace patterns, don't you think?

The saddest part of being sick for so long was missing my SnB Grrls and, most of all, our 4th Anniversary Party. Laurie founded the group and to her we are all forever indebted.  We are a very tight knit group in every way and it was sad for me to miss  our gatherings for so many weeks.  Smith was able to drop off my swap gift before the party (we could only use one skein, an idea that came from Susan) and Susan dropped of my gift later in the week.  I was lucky enough to be the recipient of her project....a small (and darling) felted bag (perfect for other one skein projects) which she had filled it with other goodies. Thank you, Susan...I love it.

The project I made was the Chevron Neck Warmer by Véronik Avery, in Kathmandu Aran.  It was a fun, quick and easy project.  Some vintage buttons, from my small button stash, worked out quite nicely, don't you think?

I'm working on a post of my 2007 finishes that should be ready on Wednesday.  Thank you again for your good wishes.  I love Blogland.

Laughter is the BEST Medicine

If grrlfriends could make you well, I'd be the healthiest person on the planet. The calls and emails have lifted me up and made me feel very special and loved.  I am doing much, much better and miss you all. 

Monday was a very special mail day, mostly because it was full of smiles and laughter. 

A post card from Hawaii! Luck TeresaC spent Christmas there and this is a repro of a map she purchased to hang in her home.  Love it!

Stacey sent a card and fiber (along with more luxurious fibers) that made Smith laugh out loud and Jan sent a link that made me laugh out loud. (You really should click).

Cara picked up a beautiful square spindle at Rhinebeck and as luck would have it it also arrived on Monday.  I can't wait to give it a spin!

The new Piecework arrived chocked full of knitting ideas, projects and enticements.   I'm planning future projects and I'm knitting daily, too.

A bunch of special grrlfriends, Norma, Sandy, Vicki, TeresaC, and Anne sent chicken soup for the soul and it was the best ever.

I can't thank you all enough for your love and support.  I'll be back Monday, renewed, feeling like myself and, hopefully, to show off the long ago last projects of 2007.

Pssst....

I have it on good authority that today, today, today is TeresaC's birthday. Make sure you tell her to have a good one, OK?

What are Friends For?

Monday through Friday for 3 and a half years I've been talking about me, my knitting, my State...whatever comes to mind...and then I join NaBloPoMo and the mind goes blank.  Thoughts disappear, ideas evaporate, and to top it off,  Norma brags about being organized and ahead of the game. Bitch. We all know how easily words come to Norma, and now I know what writers block is.  The ideas are there, knitting continues and grows, I have a bunch of fun fibery stuff to show off...but no words come.

Today is Vicki's birthday! It's also Laura's birthday, and I do believe it's Deb's birthday, too!  Deb has a thing for November calenders...so here you go Deb....three favorite calenders.  Oh, and it's Beth's  birthday, too! Is this a record for birthday's in blogland?

The weekend was spent very quietly and, often, the only sound was the clicking of knitting needles.  Scoop is growing so quickly...gotta love size 8 needles and worsted yarn, and I'm totally in love with her good looks.  The back is finished, even blocked and I've cast on the one of the sleeves.  Everyone has a mind game they play with themselves to insure all pieces of a sweater are finished.  My game is to knit the back, knit the sleeves and then the front(s).  In this case, I might mix it up a bit and live dangerously by knitting a sleeve, one front and then a sleeve again.  Knitting should be entertaining, so why not have some fun.

Because PF  is a little harsh in its state of skein, it felt right to wash and block the back.  It bloomed! It softened and it looks so pretty!  Seeing the back in a more 'finished' state is a real boost to knitting progress. I can't wait to have Scoop du Blueberries on my back.