A Few Things...

Good morning Knitsters!

Atticus would like to let you know that today we're going to answer a few questions, let you in on my apartment secret, and honour my knitting teacher. A mixed bag.

Oh, hey! What would that be on my lap, by the way? Why, Amphora! She was brought out on the weekend, and is up to the armhole steeks. I was on a roll...

Which leads to our first question:

Marina asked how the Hifa 2 yarn compared with other 2-ply yarns such as AS' Hebridean or Jamieson's? Well, it's slightly thicker, "bouncier" and coarser. The colours are vibrant, however - I don't think I'd wear this next to my skin. It's much coarser, and now that the heat is on, I'm noticing that it irritates the delicate girly skin on my hands! Something that I don't have a problem with when using other 2-plys. I wonder if it's the way the wool is treated? Or is it the breed of sheep? Whereas I'd wear a Jamieson's or Hebridean next to my skin with no irritation, I can see this driving me batty.

But - it does knit up a beautiful fabric, let me tell you. I'm almost done the stranded part of Dalarna, I'll post a picture next time around.

I also had a question sent to me with one of my contest entries - what are the origins of my last name? Well, my ancestors were Basque, they came to New France (what Canada was known as then) in the early 1730's. They settled in present day Quebec, and the name eventually morphed in to the spelling it is today. I was born in Montreal, and raised a French Canadian, although I do not often get the opportunity to speak french here in english Toronto. There are quite a few ex-Montrealers at work, and we do speak french together when we can. And occasionally with my sister.

Neat-o.

If you scare easy...

Move on! Carrie K. told us a story on her blog last week about her encounter with the paranormal, and I thought I'd continue along that line - and tell you about my encounters. I say encounters, because I live right in it - my apartment is haunted, in my opinion.

I've been here for over 8 years now, and I noticed it on my very first night. Someone in my room, sitting on my bed. I didn't have any of the cats at the time. But, it's something I get regurlarly, the feeling that someone is sitting on the edge of my bed. I also have someone "tuck" me in occasionally as well - someone pushes the covers over my shoulders and neck. Not at all in a threatening or rough manner. It is as though someone were actually "tucking" me in. Oh, and the cats? They don't sleep on the bed, they never have. Not even Gandalf.

The cats also have an invisible friend who plays with them. Out of blue, they will "play" and grab at something in the air that isn't there. My stereo turns itself on on it's own, and I've had candles re-light themselves after they've been extinguished for awhile.

Once in a while, I'll hear what seems like distant voices. I remember the first time I heard it, I woke up thinking my neighbour's alarm clock had gone off. Only she had moved out the previous day, and there was no one in the apartment downstairs, or next door for that matter. I got up, and searched my entire apartment to see where it was coming from, and I could not find the source - not my TV, stereo, or alarm clock. There was nothing - and it was definitely coming from downstairs. Which was empty. I still hear it occasionally - it sounds like a distant conversation.

But, despite all of this - I'm not afraid. I don't feel threatened at all, or scared. And most of all - the cats aren't afraid. I think if they were bothered by it all, it would be a good sign to leave. This is an old house, in an old area of Toronto.

And last of all...

It's a bit of a sad time for me, Knitsters. My mother passed away 10 years ago, and although I remember her everytime I cast on a new stitch, I think of her most of all this time of year. She was my first knitting teacher - she taught me how to knit on a small pair of bright yellow 4mm needles, that I still have. I made a red garter stitch scarf! She was a very talented knitter, and I think of her when I work any new project.

I wish her life could have been longer, but things happen we have no control over. I know she can only be happier and at peace now, which comforts me.

I honour her with ever stitch I knit.

And The Winner Is...!

Good morning Knitsters! I had hoped to post during the week, however that work thing... Again...

But, I received whole whack of great entries! I needed some help in choosing:


"Maybe if I stare into space long enough, I'll be able to make a decision... Do we only get to choose one Mom? They're pretty good, you know."

Mae's right. There are some pretty good ones. So, the Council of Three (aka. Atticus, Mae and Gandalf) have decided to award 2 runner up prizes as well.






Atticus: "Choices are tough. I myself just go for everything I can. Like food. And sleeping spots."

Gandalf: "...oh look, something is moving. Must investigate... I wonder if jumping Mae will result in a beat down? I can't remember what happened last time, so I'll just have to go and see what'll happen. Seems like deja vu, for some reason... oh well."




So, allow me to introduce - DALARNA!

The winning entry was submitted by Wendy. As she explains it - the red and white reminded her of the Dalarna horses. And it does, the horses are beautiful, and fit in nicely with the whole theme of the photograph as well.

Thanks Wendy!

But, as I mentioned, there are also prizes for the 2 runner ups as well -

Trek wins with her "Charlie Brown" entry. Yup, the stripes do remind me of his shirt! Makes me laugh when I think of it. Thanks Trek!

And Emily wins with "The Surly Norwegian" - after about 15 rounds of red and white...well, that about describes it!

You know what was so great about having this contest? All the new knitting bloggers I've discovered. Thanks everyone!

A special mention also goes to my sister, who really came up with a cool one - "Alice". But not for the reason you guys would think now... Heh. Actually, Red and White was the name of a grocery store chain in Ontario/Eastern Quebec. Our paternal grandmother used to shop there, and we both have vivid memories of her telling us in Quebec french how she was going to the "Red and White". And she'd buy us these suckers, and leave them on top of her old fridge (remember that?). So... her name was Alice. Eener, you get your prize at Christmas! She'd also like me to pass along a big "Thank You" to everyone who wished her a happy birthday last week. She's pretty amazed at the kindness of the knitting friends I have - and I second that!

I'll be sending e-mails out to the winners this morning.

I've also posted a progress picture of Dalarna. It doesn't look like much - I've been spending much of the week (when not swearing at my support Blackberry) working on some charity knitting for the Annex Cat Rescue, the organization Gandalf was adopted from.

She does move along quickly, but the yarn? Springy. Much more than Shetland 2-ply. My usual floating method - spreading out the stitches on the right hand needle before changing colours - doesn't work as well with this yarn. As a result of the bounciness, I have a few longer floats than I'd like in some spots! I think I've figured out the right length to strand. It looks puckery in spots, but I'm pretty confident that blocking will even all that out!

Hey, like the tartan blanket Dalarna is resting on? That was a gift from my brother (he's another wacky marathon runner...). He serves in the Canadian military, and a few years ago, he was in Scotland and picked it up for me.

Thanks again Knitsters! It was great meeting you all, visiting your sites, and reading your entries.

Contest! Name me!

It's been a slow knitting week Knitsters... Bummer. Work has been keeping me busy (the nerve) - doing after-hours support is a funny thing sometimes. I can go weeks with nothing, then in the space of a week... *sigh*

But - I did manage to work on my "Red and White Cardigan on Page 164 With No Name":


Don't mind the crap picture, you get the idea. I'm curious as to why this yarn requires Norwegian steeks as opposed to the other method of steeking (cut 'n' go). The yarn is a 2-ply yarn, Hifa 2 Yarn by Hillesvåg, which is a slightly heavier 2-ply than Shetland, but just as sticky. Trust me on that one. Winding those suckers into balls was not. fun. Anyone have any experience working with this yarn?

So - here's the contest info!

She needs a name! Poetry in Stitches, while a beautiful book, does not place names on ANY of their designs, which is a shame as they are all so lovely... *sigh* So, if you can come up with a spiffy name for my poor "Red and White Cardigan on Page 164 With No Name", you'll get a hoard of red and white goodies (of course, there will be yarn).

Contest open to anyone, anywhere, and will close at 5pm Eastern Time on Friday, October 20th. Be original, and I'll pick the one I like best. You can send your entries to bdepocas@rogers.com.

Thanks everyone!

And, as promised -


Once again I enlisted the help of my lovely co-worker Monica to snap a picture of Ophelia and I. She was quite a hit! And warm too - I got caught in a snow squall on the way home, and she kept me nice and toasty - and dry.

*sigh* I love wool...




She's BACK!!!

Our wonderful Hammy is back with her new blog - Sheriff of Knittingham! Drop by her blog, and welcome her back.

...One More Thing!

I have to wish my sister a VERY HAPPY BIRTHDAY, which is on Saturday, October 14th. She turns that magical age between 39 and 41... So, Happy Birthday Eener!!!! (inside joke folks...).

Have a great weekend!

Ophelia

Hey! *giggling* hee hee hee hee hee hee hee hee *giggling*!

Guess what this is!??

Ophelia is DONE!!!!

Here are the details: "Ophelia", by Lorraine Condotta (hi!) - kit purchased from She Ewe Knits. Knit on 3.25mm using Jamieson's 2-ply Shetland Spindrift 2-ply wool.

And Ewenice shows you the lovely neckline, and a detail of the motifs and perees.

OK. So, I'll be honest. I really, really don't have much to complain about with this FO. Sure, Lorraine is my friend - but if I did have something that irked me about the pattern, I would definitely write about it. But, I really don't. I was peeved about running out of Mulberry, but was lucky that Lorraine had some leftover to help me out. I think a certain black kitten had something to do with that... Fair Isle is always a joy to knit, as long as you know what you're getting yourself into. Lorraine once told me that a Fair Isle knitter really only needs the dimensions, colour key and chart, and the rest will come together on it's own. So very true. I really only followed the chart, and was able to let it all flow into the lovely piece you see above. Such is the beauty of Fair Isle. I am immensely proud of her.

Thanks Lorraine for such a beautiful design that I am so proud to have knit! And hey, go check out Lorraine's other designs at She Ewe Knits! Anne will take very good care of you.

OK. I'm getting schmarmy.

So what's next? Well, Arangenser is getting alot of attention, and duh, of course I'm starting something new even though Elizabeth I, Amphora and Western Seas still occupy a spot on my rocking chair.

But - Sillyewe said it best: you can justify it if it's a different technique. Aha! Of course. That makes perfect sense to me! And Carrie, not one to mince words, said to just go for it.

Meet "Red and White Sweater on page 164 with No-Name" from the incredible Poetry in Stitches. I don't have a picture to post of her yet, I've only done about 5 rounds.

Phew - this one should be interesting! Norwegian steeks! And I don't have a sewing machine! Wheeeeee! But I do have Anna Zilborg's book "Knitting for Anarchists", which gives information on how to crochet/hand sew the steek edges before cutting. It should be fun - just two colours.

So, that's it. Let me know what you think!

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

10 Knitterly Things...

To distract you while Ophelia receives her final touches...

Here are 10 Knitterly Things About Brigitte:

1. My mother taught me how to knit when I was 10 years old. My first project was a red garter stitch scarf.

2. My first "real" project was an off-white bulky sweater, which fit just fine, however I twisted ALL of the knit stitches.

3. 100% Cotton - bad. 100% Silk - ew. Actually, both make my hands swell. Not sure why...

4. If you can't take the time to write a clear, decent pattern, I will never take the time to work your designs again, no matter how nice or challenging they may be.

5. I'm self-taught when it comes to Fair Isle and cables.

6. I hardly ever swatch. It's hardly ever been an issue. The only times I wish I had is when I discover how much I dislike what I'm working on. One out of four projects will end up in the frog pond...

7. I fell for traditional knitting - traditional Arans - when I first set eyes on Alice Starmore's "Aran Knitting" in 1999. Instant Fair Isle love came with "The Celtic Collection" a bit later. I haven't looked back since.

8. I'm no "follower" when it comes to knitting "trends". I prefer the tried and true, as I'm a believer that knitting is an art form.

9. Although I'm not a happy shopper, I will go slightly mental and zone out when shopping for yarn. Lorraine and Anne can attest to that.

10. I can't remember the last time I sat on my antique rocking chair. Too crowded with WIP's...


Gandalf: "OK. I'm not gonna to say I'm completely guiltless in the Mulberry Affair, however, I'm so cute, even if caught red-handed I'd so cute you out, you'd forget what I did."

Atticus: "Man, that kid gets away with everything. Back when I was a kid, I used to get away with squat! Until Mae came to live with us, then I'd try to blame everything on her. But she was mighty cute too. As was I, come to think of it. I was smaller then, and svelter too. A little hellion really... *sigh* I do like my kibble... Oh, am I rambling...? Right. Where were we?"

Next post: Ophelia!

Oh Crud.

Oh crap. I'm out of Mulberry. The main colour for Ophelia. With about 30 rows or so, and the cuff. Oh, and the 2 rows I messed up in the back that I have to duplicate stitch.
"For shame..."

It will be Lorraine to the rescue! She has some left over, now we just have to hook up!

Call me!
"I told you this would happen..."
"Nope, none here...sorry Mom."

Lush

Eeeeee! Can you tell I'm excited?!

Here she is!

Lush, by Kim Hargreaves
Knit using Rowan Kid Classic (70% Lambswool, 26% Kid Mohair, 4% Nylon) on 4.5mm and 3.75mm needles (colour - Crushed Velvet).
PITA factor - 7 out of 10, and that's simply because of the finishing. The main body of the piece is knit from cuff to cuff, with short rows used to shape the waist. That part was simple and quick. Then the cowl collar, arm bands and front and back "ribbing" are knit separately. The PITA factor - all these pieces need to be sewn on to the main body; the stitches are not picked up. I was lucky *patting me on back* - my tension was accurate, and the pieces fit like a charm. Only the arms needed to be "eased" in to fit the cuff, giving it a gathered look. The instructions were clear and easy to follow, and as I've mentioned before, Kim's customer service is stellar should you need to ask for clarifications.

And you know what? She fits like a charm. Me so happy *happy happy geeky happy dance*! I would have included a modeled shot, only it's still a bit warm near the end of the day to be wearing her just yet.

I probably wouldn't knit her again, but I would recommend her to anyone looking to knit a simple, classic style. But - be warned! If finishing isn't your strong suit, you may not like this as there is quite a bit of it, and it can be tedious. The results are worth it though, so I wouldn't let that discourage you. Oooo...and Kid Classic is YUMMY!

What's next? Ophelia! And Western Seas. Both of which are so close to being FO's. Well, Ophelia is at least. And I can see the light at the end of the Western Seas tunnel. The only thing that may stop me on Ophelia is if I run out of my main colour, Mulberrry, before Lorraine and I meet up, hopefully in the next week or so (she has some left over for me...phew!).

Right. I had other pics to post about this past weekend's Toronto Waterfront Marathon, but Blogger is not going to let me post any more pictures... *sigh*. It can wait until the next one.

And if you haven't already, send some nice, happy kitty "Get Well Soon" wishes to Chaos, who's feeling rather poorly of late...

Take care everyone, and enjoy this wonderful Autumn weather!

Is It Friday?

Le Bummer.

I've had better weeks... But at the end of the day, you come home to the Little Dudes, you have great Knit Buddies to cheer you up (thanks Hammy!), and good friends at work to laugh with.

It could be worse, I always remember that.




Something Is Rotten In The City of Toronto

For the past 8 years plus, I have been very fortunate to live in a lovely neighbourhood here in Toronto. I have an apartment in an old house - built in 1892, before there was anything beyond farmland in this area. It's been beautifully renovated, and it's been home here for myself and the Little Dudes.

Here's the rotten in the State of Denmark part.

I found out late last week that due to a severe mould problem in the basement, I have to vacate the apartment by the end of the year. The Health Department of the city of Toronto were here to measure the mould levels, and found out that the levels are 2 times the acceptable limit in the basement. The owners now have to do a major cleanup on all levels, and it's probably not going to be a good idea to be around for it.

So, I'm bummed. I don't want to move, for obvious reasons. I don't really want to go through all of the hassle, but you have to do what you have to do. I'm concerned for myself, and of course the kitties. Health is more important.

I've started to look for another place, and I'm encouraged by what's available. Looks like I'll be able to stay in the neighbourhood, and probably find something cheaper as well. I'm making the best of a bad situation, and looking at the bright side of things -

I'll be able to really clear out my stash! Wheeee!!

Lush Snag


I was breezing along on Lush when I reached a bit of a snag.

The cuff - kind of small for the arm edge.

It is supposed to be a snug fit, and the cuff needs to be eased in to the arm edge, but this just didn't fit! No matter how much I stretched it out.

Even though I pretty much suspected all I needed was to add a few more repeats between the short row shaping on the sides, I thought I'd be a good consumer. I sent Kim Hargreaves an e-mail, in case there was an error in the pattern. I received a response within 24 hours, and confirmed what I suspected. So, I'll just add a few more repeats, and all will be well with world.

And Kim Hargreaves? Fabulous customer service, and I would recommend ordering from her any day. You should have no worries placing an order with her, or having to ask any question on her patterns. They even offered to send more yarn if I was short.

See? Things always work out.

And, while waiting on a response, I was able to work on Ophelia's last arm. I have 2 repeats left to complete, and the cuff! I can smell victory...

You know, once I re-read this, it all doesn't seem so bad.

My brother is down for the Toronto Waterfront Marathon on Sunday (7am start. Oh goodie *clapping hands*.). And - my Sis-in-Law finished 16th out of all the women participants in the Montreal Marathon a few weeks ago! Very cool!

And tomorrow is Friday.

Yarn, Yarn and More Yarn

Well, there's a lot to be said for the power of blogging and the Internet. When it comes to knitting - it has you bring out your WIP's for everyone to see, it gives you a medium for showing off your FO's, your friends can offer advice and encouragement (one of the best aspects), and you can also be right royally chastised for NOT displaying your loot picked up at a Knitters' Fair.

Me sorry...

So, here are some more details. Atticus and Gandalf decided they'd better inspect the goods as well, just in case there was something worth munching on.


Some Aran weight Philosopher's Wool in a red. I'm going to make an outdoor, cabled coat.

I love a vibrant colour for winter, and this sweater should be warm enough for mild-ish winter days.




"This had better not be another kitten..."



Some lovely spring green Peace Fleece for a top-down hoodie.









"I'm not picking up a scent...we may be in the clear..."


"Woodstock" yarn from Needful Yarns, in a marled dark purple/black. This is quite a departure from the usual for me, but it was a case of loving the finished product displayed - a car coat. Should be a quick knit!

(But not until Ophelia's done, I know Marina...)



"What if you're wrong? I like being the only Cute Kitten..."


"Thrum" mitten kits, one in black, one in grey.

And Gandalf looking mighty cute, I might add...







"You know, you could stuff me in your mitts for extra warmth...Just sayin'."


And here's the "Alcea" kit I picked up at Anne's booth - She Ewe Knits.

It's in the latest Jamieson's book - Simply Shetland 3.

Beautiful colours! And, the book is quite good, there are a few textured designs and a gansey that would be lovely to make...

"OK, inanimate sheep, try not to steal my thunder. It's still all about me..."

Phew. OK, and there are a couple of other things I won't show, because they're to be pressies... It was a pretty productive day, wouldn't you say?! Also not shown are the sundry needles I picked up at a great price, and the blocking wires.

Marina is applying pressure to Cynthia and I... She's going to be reminding us of our unfinished Fair Isle projects (hey, mine's on hiatus) until they are done! Once I'm done with Kim Hargreaves' "Lush", I will be devoting 100% of my knitting time on Ophelia's last arm! Lush is in the finishing stages - I'm completing the bottom cuffs now, and after that I have the arm cuffs to complete. Sew her up, and she's done!

Then it's All Ophelia, All The Time.


Atticus and Gandalf, in a "Planes, Trains and Automobiles" moment. What you can't really see is Gandalf (in the Steve Martin role) with his little arm around Atticus' (in the John Candy role) back.

Later, once they woke up to the fact Atticus was not the soft pillows of Gandalf's dream, they were all - "hey, whoa, uh, heh heh, uh how 'bout those Leafs, huh?!"

And, I did not want to close off this post without wishing my wonderful sister-in-law a very happy 40th birthday! How does the birthday girl celebrate? By running a marathon - the New York City marathon in November (after running one in Montreal last weekend...).

Myself, I'd by yarn.

No Such Thing As Too Much Yarn...

Well, such is my belief.

Atticus inspects some of the new additions, and gives them 2 paws up! Not everything is shown, 'cause, well that would be too many pictures and that would be, well, embarassing.

But what a day! I spent this past Saturday with Anne and Lorraine at the Kitchener-Waterloo Knitters' Fair.

Stash. Enhancement.


A great picture of Anne and Lorraine, chatting at the She Ewe Knits booth.

Did you check out the pictures on Lorraine's blog? She's got all the goods on display - the Twisted Tradition designs and all of the Jamieson's that Anne showcased. And a silly picture of me giggling away while demonstrating 2-handed Fair Isle knitting.

I myself picked up "Alcea", from Jamieson's latest Simply Shetland 3.

And other stuff. Lots of other stuff...


Lorraine, showing me the correct way to wear a beret.

I on the other hand, do not look too fetching in that type of hat...

She's wearing the beret and scarf from her "Fair Rosamund" design.





It was a fabulous day Knitsters! Saw all sorts of neat stuff, met some interesting people, and supported some great, small "cottage industry" type yarn retailers from both sides of the border. I was only too happy to lend my support...

And, I think Anne converted one lady over to the traditional knitting side... Heh heh... Reel them in with a twisted design, and the next thing you know it's Fair Isle all the way...

Back at Work

Always a ton 'o' fun...

And back to the Gym

*sigh*

I lazed around a bit too much this summer, so it's now time to get back to a regular schedule! I stick exclusively to classes, and will be heading back to Meditation Yoga on Wednesdays after sporadic attendance over the summer, and maybe a Back Strengthening class on Thursdays. My theory on going to the gym - if I can't do it away from the gym, then I won't do it. In other words, I can do yoga or strengthening exercises at home, but I don't have circuit machines in my basement. So I stick to the yoga and the like.

Can you imagine how buff we'd be if knitting were exercise? No, jumping up and down and throwing things against the wall doesn't count.



"Hey, check out Chaos' new little sister! I think she's kinda cute, but she's a girl so she probably has cooties."

"Aw geez Mom... now everyone'll know I secretly like the little guy... Must remember to smack him upside the head next chance I get."

Home Again

Well, thanks to everyone for the lovely birthday and vacation wishes! My sister says it's pretty cool that I have Knit Buddies all over sending me good wishes. And it is - so thank you all very much!

{{{{{Brigitte sending big hugs!}}}}}

What I Did On My Summer Vacation

Knitsters, I had the BEST time ever in St. Catharines! It was wonderfully relaxing, and as always, my sis, SIL and Finnegan were the best hosts.

Finnegan wishes his Auntie Brigitte a Happy Birthday!

He taught me the Finnegan Song (no reason I should be the only one to have it running through my brain ad nauseam):

Who's the fluffiest in the land?
It's Finnegan!
FINNEGAN!
Woof Woof Woof!

Good thing you don't know the tune. Otherwise you'll be singing it too. Trust me.

Let me tell you - one of the cutest things ever is Mr. Fluffy greeting you first thing in the morning. Little tail wagging, head and ears looking up at you, completely overjoyed that you're there! Too. Cute. As much as I love my Little Dudes, their motivation for seeing me first thing in the morning has nothing to do with the joy of just plain seeing me. First thing anyway.

The weather blew, but that was expected. Didn't matter in the least, because we did manage to move our collective butts enough to go out walking with the puppy, visit the Aberfoyle Antique market and IKEA (on a Sunday. Not a bright plan.), eat (did I mention my sister is a fabulous cook?), watch movies, play Scrabble, nap EVERY DAY, and of course knit! Well, I did anyway.

Well, lookie here! It's Western Seas, looking consiberably longer than she did a week ago! Body to gussets? Done! Gussets? Done! Front to start of V-neck? DONE!

And you know what? I wasn't bored with her at all. It was the perfect knit to have taken with me - easy to work on and looking good!

I caved and also brought Ophelia with me. I did finish the first sleeve cuff, and picked up the stitches for the right sleeve.

How COOL is that ?! Well, I'm pleased, that's for sure.

Oh yeah, I also attended Finnegan's Puppy School on Tuesday.

Here he is greeting his buddy Cosmo.

He did very well. Either that or he's on to my sister and the treat thingy.

You know, I love dogs, and Finnegan is just the sweetest little puppy. But, cats? Rock. I love their independance, the fact they flip you the bird if you try to train them, and that they love you in their own sweet, quiet little ways. *sigh*


You know what's the best part of being home again?

"Leave for 5 days again and I'll take a page from Kitten-Chow's book and crap on your bed."

Awwww....!











That lump is Gandalf, discovering the joys of an IKEA purchase.

"Wha'? Where am I? Oooo, look - hangy things! Wheee! Wheee! Wheee!"

"You smelled like dog when you came home. Something you'd like to tell me? Fine. I'm just going to lie here in silence. Until you break out the food."


Awww...they wuv me!

And the Fun Overload continues - tomorrow is the Waterloo County Knitters' Fair! If you're in the area, be there or be square.

Ka. Ching.

Going...Going...Going!

Weeeeee!!!! Knitsters, I'm on vacation!

No alarm clock! No work clothes!

No pager. Sweet Alice Starmore. No. Pager.

Can you tell that makes me happy?!

So, I am off to lovely St. Catharines, Ontario to visit my sister and sister-in-law (Finnegan's Moms!). This has become a yearly tradition since they moved out there. It's about an hour and a half from Toronto, in the Niagara region, famous for it's orchards and wineries (ooooo baby!). The tradition? Celebrating my birthday on Saturday. Someone asked me if I mind people asking my age? Not at all - I turn a young 38. I always view my age as something to be proud of - and something to celebrate. Which I do. Heartily! My sister is an excellent cook, and always makes the most wonderful meals. This year is my first birthday since being diagnosed with Celiac Disease, and she's even searched the 'net for a gluten free chocolate cake recipe!

Awwww, shucks!

Brigitte admits to another WIP...

I had the best of intentions, rumaging through my embarassing stash to look for some yarn for some volunteer knitting I'll be doing for the Annex Cat Rescue.

When I came across this:


Oh. Hello.

This would be "Lush", from Kim Hargreaves. Started last December when I was still in my old apartment next door.

I packed her away in one of my yarn bins. And promptly forgot her.

*sigh*

I guess I got caught up with the move, and unpacking. But no more!! I will make it up to her. She's not difficult, or a bore either. It's knit cuff to cuff on 4.5mm (huge needles for me!), with short rows (why do I always gravitate to WIP's with short rows?) and neckline shaping, so it's never dull. And the Rowan Kid Classic? Love it! The colour, Crushed Velvet, is actually much deeper than it shows up in my picture above. The colour on Kim's site (the link above, nudge nudge) is actually much closer to the actual.

Stay tuned.

What I Will Do On My Late Summer Vacation

My poor, neglected Western Seas. Lorraine has warned me that I will go batty with one WIP.

Thanks Hammy. You know me well... But, I will do my best! Thanks to Hurricane Ernesto, it will be nothing but cold rain the entire long weekend, while not a bad thing, will mean a lot of knitting time. It's perfect for movie knitting. And Not-My-Turn Scrabble knitting.

Must. Finish. Western Seas.

Above you see my progress thus far. Closer to 10", and I have a total of 12 before starting the gussets. Less than I thought, but we'll see how I do.

Wish me luck. Think of me.

The Little Dudes

HiMomHiMomHiMomIloveyoudoyoulovemeOK

byeWeeeeWeeeeWeeeeTackleAtticusWatchme

watchmewatchmeyouwatchingmeOhlooklintplay

playplayrunmaniacpsychokittenWeeeWeeeWeee

lookatmeHiMomHiMomByeMomplayplayplay

WeeeWeeeWeeeLookat...*clunk* *zzzzzzzzzzzz*

*honkshu, honkshu*

Yup. Kittens. One minute tearing the place apart. The next. Out like a light.

"Finally, some peace and freakin' quiet..."

The life of a cat.












"For cryin' out loud, that kid's a hellion. Man, I'm bushed..."

Enjoy the long weekend Knitsters! I'll be back on Thursday, hopefully more relaxed and with much more Western Seas to show off.

Clawing Away At Too Many WIP's!

Dear Marina:

I had my Mom take this picture to show you that Western Seas is still getting a lot of attention (but not as much as me!). Here I am trying to smooth it out so that it looks nice. *Ehn!* There we go, doesn't she look great?

I'm a big help.

Love, Gandalf



Thanks to the little man and his maneuvering to help get it into proper photographing state!

I always do this to myself. You know, get into one of those "organizing" frenzies where all I want to do is catalogue my knitting magazines and bookshelves, and alphabetize my fridge (it's a Virgo thing - hey, guess who gets to wear a silly birthday hat in a week!? No, not Atticus. Or Mae.). Eventually, I get to my WIP's, and I get overwhelmed.

Arrrrgh...

If it kills me...

1. Ophelia
2. Western Seas (I'm going to bring her over to my sister's next weekend)
3. Amphora

These are the priority! I hate having these seemingly unloved WIP's around (but they're not unloved!). If I tire of Sleeve Island on Ophelia, I'll finish Amphora's body, and de-Ophelia my brain for a bit.

Arangenser, my poor lovely Aran, will be next. I hope I'm not being overly confident when I say she should go fairly quickly.

I sound like a broken record! Haven't I moaned about this to you all before? Well, Diva was in the mix, so let's say it's an update.
Gandalf reminds me that when you get in the way of a kitten and his pouncing, you run the risk of becoming a casualty.

I'd forgotten how funny those little Psycho Kitten episodes can be, you know when they go all whacko on the pillows and whatever else gets in the way. Right now, his favourite thing to play with is a toilet paper roll. Hey, it's cheap, and he's happy.

And everyone is still getting along nicely, and I've only seen Mae assert her dominance with him. In a nice, cat-language sort of way. So far, I haven't seen Atticus do so. Although... he does clean Gandalf's head, and holds him down while doing so. I believe that's one of their methods. Ah, the mysterious world of kitties. It's so funny to watch them interact. Mae can be quite cute with him, cuddling him and cleaning his...areas...and swating him upside the head when he gets annoying. Atticus just continues to be the big goofy Big Brother.

Right, I'm off for a high-fat, high-calorie but oh-so-yummy breakfast, so - have a great weekend Knitsters!

All Sorts of Stuff

Well, meow there, all my new friends in Blogland! My Mom says I need to be a polite Little Dude and thank you all for your nice comments about me! It hasn't gone to my cute little fuzzy kitten head... Although I've pretty much taken over the coveted Chair-Next-To-The-Sunny-Window spot from my big brother. I just look cute and he caves in...

Can I tell you? I adore my big brother Atticus! He's so nice to me, shows me how to do stuff like not bonk my head against the window, and use the litter box (I don't think Mom liked me using a corner of the couch), and he lets me chase him and sleep next to him and we do all sorts of neat stuff together! And, I gave him kitty head-butts today, and he cleaned my head! (Mom note: Awwwww....!)


Here we are eating. I'm eating the Big Cat food, no more of that kitten crap for me! It's the big time, baby!
(Mom note: uh, no.)

*sigh* Life is good!

I even love my sister Mae too, although she pretends not to like me. She let me nap next to her this morning, but then she decided I was getting annoying, and jumped up on the table where I couldn't reach her. Oh well, she's a softie, even if she won't admit it.


See? She may look like "Gawd, he's still here?? Man...", but she lets me snuggle with her at night!

I don't think there's an area of the apartment I have explored!

Guys, life ROCKS at my new home! Thanks again for welcoming me, even though this knitting thing isn't something my Mom is too tolerant about me learning... Dunno...


Knitting - it really does happen!

I have to say, Gandalf and his siblings have adjusted wonderfully! Pretty much within 24 hours.

So, I got back into doing some serious knitting -

Ophelia's first arm is at the cuff stage! Wheeee!!! I would have probably had the cuff done and the stitches of the 2nd arm picked up if it weren't for Gandalf and his Flying Walendas maneuvres on me. She's coming along well, if I do say so. I did one less peree repeat just before the cuff began. I have freakishly short arms...

*Have you seen the Whiskas commercial where they do scenarios with grown men in the cat roles? There's one for Hank the Kitten? Yeah, well, that's Gandalf, jumping from one thing to the other, including yarn... I'm pretty sure I've seen the commercial on both Canadian and US channels. The commercials are very original and well done, not to mention hilarious.*

And although I did say I wouldn't start anything new (what? Cynthia does it too!) I caved... But look at what I'm cheating with!

It's "Elizabeth I" from Alice Starmore's Tudor Roses. I joined Marji's Tudor Roses KAL, and after a brief stint thinking I had sufficient yarn for "Katherine Howard" (nope), I decided I would work on Liz instead. It is what I originally bought the yarn for (2-ply Hebridean from Virtual Yarns).

I am really enjoying this knit. The attention to detail - short row hemline, darts, and the delicate centre pattern make for a beautiful design. The 2-ply yarn, and I've never used AS' 2-ply for anything other than Fair Isle, makes an incredibly supple fabric, which suits the design perfectly. I've only just started the centre pattern, but check out Marji's amazing progress on her "Elizabeth I"!

So, it's been a busy time Knitsters!

A lot of you have nifty buttons - I'm hoping to load them soon! Keep 'em coming.

Gandalf

*Note to Self: Do not visit friend with foster kitten.
* 2nd Note to Self: Do not pick up and play with said foster kitten.

Well, lookie here!

GANDALF!

Welcome Little Dude!

He is a 12 week old little kitten we (although at this time Atticus and Mae are suitably unimpressed I forged their names on the adoption papers) adopted from a wonderful organization here in Toronto - the Annex Cat Rescue.

At this time, his big brother and sister are just not gettin' it.


Mae is watching from afar. I think she's starting to be all - "great, I'm the middle child now", although she should be - "hey, I'm no longer the youngest...cool."










Atticus has his WT...? look on his face. He's been hilarious - I think he'll come around before Mae does, he's so good natured.

He's actually a bit taken aback, and although he may deny it, afraid of wee Gandalf! He'll get hissed and growled at by Gandalf, and is totally perplexed by it.

"Huh? Wha...? Uh, *hiss back*?"

There was a cute little moment this morning when they touched noses. Then Gandalf remembered - hey, wait a minute, I'm not supposed to be cool with you just yet... *hiss!*.

Atticus and Mae just aren't getting it yet. But, as I mentioned both are very good natured, and pretty easy-going. This is just the sizing up stage (I hope). Anyone out in knitting land have any experience with bringing a new kitty to live with adult cats? How long roughly 'til they stop hissing and growling at each other?

When Mae was a baby and came to live with us, Atticus was pretty much the way he is now - curious. He was very gentle and patient with her. They did have their hissing matches, but that was a while ago, and I seem to remember it didn't go on for too long. Still, it would be nice to hear of others' experiences.

Gandalf was the "runt" of his litter, yet now that he's out of his foster home, he's showing that he's really not afraid to take on anything. He also has these very un-catlike, mysterious little mannerisms. When he lies down, he actually "claps" his front paws together! It's too cute, I've never seen that before. He's very sweet - he fell asleep last night with his paw on my arm and his head on my hand. Awwww! The name "Gandalf" suits him.

Hey, it just occured to me that Chaos now has a real-live Mini-Me!

Knitting ('cause this is a knitting blog after all!)

Lorraine was mentioning about having a bit of knitting ennui of late... I was in that funk last week - could barely do a round on Ophelia's arm without messing up. I have 100 stitches, and yet each round is taking about as long as a round for the body would take! I then moved on to the Seaweed Scarf - which is going really well, btw (!) - and I messed up pretty much every repeat. I was even dropping stitches when I tried to work on Western Seas...*sigh*. I suppose it's not ennui as much as being a space knitting cadet. All thumbs...

Atticus would like me to thank you all for all your kind comments and cyber-noogies! Although he loves being the centre of attention, he's not likely to want to go through and overnighter at the V-E-T to get them.

He's not going to like Saturday morning when he heads back for his checkup...


I leave you with this little gem.

Atticus and Gandalf, sizing each other up.









"Dude. Man, you're small. Um, that's my spot, by the way..."

Poor Little Dude...

"Really, do you always need to follow me around with that thing? Go 'way..."

Poor little Dude... Atticus has just returned from an overnighter at the V-E-T.

And he's not a happy camper. Suffice it to say peeing in the box...wasn't happening. He has problems with crystals, this one probably left over from a bad bout he had in the winter. And he's had a bad kidney infection, so at the first *ahem* sign of straining, he goes to the V-E-T. And getting a 20lbs male cat into the carrier? Think about it.

Being all male-kitty, he never shows his Mom when he's in pain... :( So, Iwatch him like a hawk.

He's home now, and all is forgiven. Mae, after moping around with him not being around, hissed at him and batted at his head, thanks to his funny Woodbine Animal Clinic smells. Poor guy, just can't catch a break these days...

So, not much in the way of knitting these last few days. Although I am pleased to report that I am 6cm away from starting the gusset on Western Seas! And, once that begins, it'a mere 32 rows to the underarm! Good times.

Now if you'll excuse me Atticus would like to lift him to the couch and feed him popcorn and Havarti cheese.

Comfortably Numb

I learned something new yesterday. Despite the Knitting Urban Legend you may have heard about, going one day without knitting will not cause you to loose mobility in either of your hands, and the Little Yarn Gnomes will not steal from your stash while you're not looking. You may feel "off", or wonder "I feel like I've forgotten something...", but nothing whacked-out will occur.

Case in point.


Say hello to the "Comfortably Numb" (well, as I've christened her anyway). Moored at Toronto's Outer Harbour Marina (on Lake Ontario, of course), she's a lovely 23ft. sailboat, and where I spent most of my Saturday.









The Captain, readying the sails.

We could not have asked for a better day. Knitsters, if summer could always be 27C, no humidity and practically no smog - I wouldn't whine so much about how lousy summer can be in Toronto. We didn't have a great amount of wind; top speed with the sails was a scant 4 knots (Marji - not the best, but when you're out on the water, sometimes it just doesn't matter, right?!).



A lovely view of the Toronto skyline. Hey, that would be me steering while The Captain lowered the front sail (and it has a name, everything on a sailboat has a name, damned if I can remember what it is though), and snapping a picture at the same time. We are getting ready to sail through the gap between the Toronto shoreline, and the Island Airport. You can only pass through on motor power, and stay well away from the buoys surrounding the approach to the Island...something about the planes (and this is just a small regional airport) getting a little bothered by sailboat masts in their view as they're trying to land... And a $10K fine for sailing withing the buoys. We then sailed off to Centre Island, and a cold one.

Despite slathering myself with sunscreen, I'm still as red as Christmas. Owwie! My crap SPF 30 sunscreen (for sensitive skin, my ass) did not live up to it's name. The one spot on my back where The Captain slathered on some of his No Name SPF45 - looking just fine. You can see where it ends, and the SPF30 begins.

And get this. When we were coming in, at around 7:30pm - Knitsters, I was COLD!!! Yes, cold. When the sun goes down on the water, it gets quite chilly. But, it was the perfect ending to a perfect day.


A lovely shot of the Toronto skyline at sunset...










So, wow. I survived at day without knitting. By the time I got home, I was so pooped I could barely feed the Little Dudes. But I did. Something about the "I will jump on your sunburn in the middle of the night. Oh yes. I will." look that Atticus gave me...

And - in the morning before all of this... I met up with Lorraine and family at the St. Lawrence Market for a little breakfast and produce shopping. How great a day was that!?

I hope your Saturday was equally as wonderful!