Knotty and Nice...

Hola!

2007-05-24T10:14:00.000-04:00

I just completed a lovely little post over on my SAL site. I forgot to mention that posting is getting harder because my active toddler is into everything and it isn't safe for me to leave her unsupervised while I post here.

Pictures and projects to come!

"This is the Dress that Never Ends..."

2007-04-09T08:53:00.000-04:00

This was a project that I started over 18 months ago. I called it "the dress that never ends." I started it several times and ended up locating one extra ball or yarn in the correct dye-lot that was needed to up-size it since Miss Knotty was growing faster than I was knitting it.

Well I sewed up the final seam Friday night and the same for the bolero, so I can't call it that anymore! I loved this pattern from the time I was pregnant and said that if I had a girl that I would make it for her. It is from Debbie Bliss' Baby Knits for Beginners. The bolero is from a different source that I can't recall at the moment. I'm not sure what happened here but it seems to not hang on her well. I'm going to have to take the blame for that. I may frog it and try again or try a different pattern all together. I still have some extra yarn in that color. Anyhow, here is my little Easter Darling and was so proud yesterday to see her wearing something I made!

Easter Girl on the Run!

Finally still enough for a front shot.

Now where were those eggs?

Dig the silver embroidered slippers!

Miss Knotty Has Her Own Hobbies

2007-03-15T12:57:00.000-04:00

My girl likes to play soccer, color, watch Curious George and The Backyardigans, run around the yard and the following....

Get in her rocking chair and look at books. She asks to "rock" and usually likes to be left alone with her books. The 2 pillows in the chair are usually thrown on the floor to make room for more books. There is a bookshelf on the wall next to her chair and she'll help herself to a new one when she gets bored with her current title.

Put on a hat. I always loved one, still do, so I'm thrilled that my girl will wear one. She has an old purse of mine that she likes to play with. This morning we were pretending to go shopping. Still clad in her pj's, Miss "Flossie Mae" here looks like she's ready to hit the Wal-Mart at any moment.

I'm busy working

2007-03-06T13:42:00.000-05:00

I've been working on my Stash-A-Long and my Lint for Lent projects. What's on your needles? I think I may have to make these for Miss Knotty's Easter basket. Peep show anyone?

WHEW!

2007-02-26T16:26:00.001-05:00

All I can say at this point is... "At least they're done!" For more on this story and others, click here!

Movie Star, Knitter, Soccer Player or Hip-Hop Fashion Stylist in Training?

2007-02-23T13:24:00.000-05:00

I say all 4!

Here's Miss Knotty "helping me" wind some yarn into balls. This is the lovely outfit I picked her up from Babies Morning Out wearing. She poured water all over the cuteness I sent her in so her teachers dressed her in her back-up clothes. We walked home from church so I put her sun glasses on since it was a bright sunny day and when we got home she didn't want to take them off. Please note the presence of "Ducky."

Miss K loves a "occa baw" (soccer ball) so a bright cherry red one seemed the ticket. She can throw and kick like a little Mia Hamm! And we think that soccer in a dress is perfectly acceptable.

"What up dog?" Perhaps you've seen this look on Americal Idol or MTV? This is one of the members of Miss K's "dog pound." Dixie is our 13 1/2 year old lab who tolerates most things Miss K puts on her. This day it was hats galore. It's good to share!

More scrumptious things to knit!

2007-02-22T10:07:00.000-05:00

If you haven't already, check out the patterns at Just One More Row . They're really great looking and completely innovative. I ordered 3 and am one pleased customer. Jill was great to deal with! I had a little problem with ordering online so we did a transaction through the mail that was lightening fast! Even with the holiday weekend and coast-to-coast travel I had my patterns in under 7 days. These are great looking and incredibly easy looking. I suggest you check her out. I ordered the the Fly Away Free Jacket, Heartbeat Sweater and the Half Moon Bay Sweater patterns.

Took some really great pics of Miss Knotty yesterday that I will post a little later on.

My Lint for Lent KAL started yesterday. Check us out!

Exciting times ahead!

2007-02-19T21:44:00.000-05:00

Wednesday begins my Lint for Lent Knit-A-Long where I, along with some very excited joiners, will engage in 40 days of charitable knitting. For my first project I want to complete a prayer shawl for my church. You will be happy to know that I'm still planning to complete this within the confines of my year long Stash-A-Long. Even more interesting is that for the remainder for February I will also be continuting to participate in the February is for Finishing Knit-A-Long. I know it seems to be getting a bit ridiclous but it is good to have some perameters to work within.

I believe I may have to frog a surprise I've been working on. I've got to talk to Knitty Yoda about it first. Somehow it just doesn't seem right to me. Luckily I'm not knitting under serious pressure to get it done. But it is hard to be so close to completing something and then have to yank it all out! That's the life of a knitter!

Today is Thursday!

2007-02-15T09:32:00.000-05:00

"Today is Thursday, You know what that means? We're gonna have a special guest!" That's for any of you who've ever watched the old Mickey Mouse Club!

Here are my twin friends with their caterpillar pillows:

Don't you just love how they sleep with their little hands up near their face? Don't you wish you could sleep like that? I need to get back over there and squeeze on them little loves!

Check out my Stash-A-Long blog for new creations!

There ARE other things too but...

2007-02-14T15:48:00.000-05:00

you simply must know that I ...

Happy Valentine's Day to all my Knitting and Crocheting Friends!!!

'Cause I Love My Girl!

2007-02-12T10:59:00.000-05:00

Miss Knotty has some new pics to share with you. This was her church attire yesterday. Hmmm.... Do I see a themed outfit?

This is such a lovely little coat. We call it "Madeline" even thoug I know it's different from hers. But Miss K does look like she could be in one of those scenes from the book.

My girl actually struck a pose for this photo! This was taken after we got home from church. I love this little jumper (Kelly's Kids). The pin on her collar was one my dad gave me for Valentine's Day when I was about 8 years old. The duck is no ordinary duck, that's "DUCKY!" Thankfully he has an elusive twin that only comes out when necessary.

This is Miss K on the go which is her usual state of being! Just as long as she keeps smiling!

FYI - More info on my Stash-A-Long site!

And Jack makes 2!

2007-02-10T13:06:00.000-05:00

Shhh... You dont' want to wake this one either!

This is the other half of that adorable pair! This is our other terrific friend, Jack. His mommy is so busy but still kind enough to remember to send Ms. Knotty a picture to share. Couldn't you just kiss that sweet little face? Hey Jack!!!

I gotta tell ya, if you aren't fortunate enough to knit for friends with new babies in their lives, then by all means knit for Caps to the Capital. Baby hats are quick, easy and inexpensive to make.

Aaaaawe!

2007-02-09T15:26:00.000-05:00

Shhhh... You don't want to wake the baby!

See what happens when you knit for sweet little babies? This is my newest friend Kate. She has a twin brother named Jack. Kate's mommy, Kara, took a picture of her in this tiny toboggan. Isn't she darling? Kara promises she will send me a photo of Jack when she gets a moment and I promise to post it when I get it. Can't you just smell that new baby smell? Mmmm.....

"I" (State your name) "do hereby promise... "

2007-02-08T17:17:00.000-05:00

Did anyone else get their Spring '07 Interweave Knits today? It was like getting the Sears-Roebuck Christmas Catalog in the mail. I opened it with excited anticipation and then had to look, look and look again to absorb all that I could. I know that I'll open it again several times before the night is through. I just love it!!!

Yummy knitting ahead!

Last night I met with some friends who are new knitters and crocheters. I must say that I love their adventuresome spirits and their excited anticipation at completing their projects. I love the careful way the create and the ways in which they fret over the same mistakes all beginners have made. I think I shall write a pledge for all new needle crafters.

"I" (state your name) "do hereby promise to say 'I can' when the knitting/crocheting gets tricky and to keep an open mind about being a beginner. I fully realize that my first projects will be chock full of flaws and I will love these in spite of it. I will proudly wear the title of 'fiber artist' and will not be ashamed to do needlework in public places. I vow to create only for those with a high appreciate for items which are handmade with love. For as long as I can I will enjoy creating, so help me God."

Say it ain't so!

2007-02-07T11:12:00.000-05:00

As I sat, just moments ago, knitting happily away at the front shoulder shaping on that Banff sweater, I realized that it would be a good idea to hold it up to the back to see how things were shaping up. Warning folks, this does not end well..... The front, which is incomplete mind you, is soooo much longer than the back. Houston we have a problem!

I think I may just have to frog the whole thing and make something else from this bulky ball of a mess. Let this be a wake up call to all you non-finishers! When you put it down and then pick it up after several years have passed, you aren't likely to have things turn out. Your tension may have changed, the piece may have stretched, you may not be working the size that you thought, the yarn will no longer be available in that dye lot, etc.

The good news is that I did spend my required 30 minutes on attempting to finish a project which will free me up to work on other, less frustrating things.

Bead-A-Long?

2007-02-07T09:35:00.000-05:00

Now you've just got to know how good I've been on this Stash-A-Long biz, but the rules did not include not buying beads and wire! I got the itch to make (crochet with wire) this after seeing it done on Uncommon Threads (HGTV or DIY) and thought "Hey! I can still buy some craft supplies! So I headed off to Michael's and got some supplies. Here is the finished product for my second attempt. The first attempt didn't have the right style of bead and was quickly pulled out. I like this one much better.

One word of caution about crocheting with wire - It can be a little tough on the hands. Even more so if you start the wire from the wrong end of the spool but we won't go there! I have enough supplies left to make a few more when my hands have recovered. I predict that the next one will be easier because I won't be trying to pull the wire from the inside of the spool. Ahem....

This is a hat I made for my friends with the newborn twins. I made it in October and that boy version earlier this month. I wanted to wait until after they were born to post it, soooo here it is!

I've also been working on a sweater for February is for Finishing and I'm really glad to be making progress on it. Here is the modified sleeve. Lordy I hope that thing fits when I try to sew it in!!!

Laid out like this it looks like a hat for a giant!

COLTS ROCK!!

2007-02-05T09:41:00.000-05:00

Hooray for the Colts! I was so glad to see the Colts, Manning and Dungy win! They are all fantastic in my book and Good Guys Do Finish First!!! Now if you want to see a more avid Colt's fan then you need to wander on over to Neighbor Knitter's page. I think she will be on cloud 9 for a week or more.

I have been knitting but you'll have to check my other blogs for progress if you're interested.

Other very exciting and important news is that I got to see the beautiful twins Saturday night. Kate and Jack are looking and doing just great. This is the duo I created for a few months ago. I've got a little picture of a hat I made Kate that I need to post. Anyhow, I'm planning on seeing them again on Wednesday morning and can't wait to say hello again. They really are precious.

On a serious note, if you are a person of faith and inclined to pray, please pray for my grandfather who has been diagnosed with cancer. He is a very kind and generous man with all the love in the world for his family. He needs our prayers now for hope, healing and comfort. Thank you.

I'm a convert

2007-02-02T09:26:00.000-05:00

I updated my blog and I have to say that it was quite uneventful and truly painless. There was one brief moment when I held my breath but as you can see everything turned out just fine.

Here's some info about a new KAL I found. It's called "February is for Finishing" and is for people who have some "unfinished business" that needs attention. I've already completed one item that needed to be worked on by playing along with the rules here. Check it out if it's something that you could use. BTW - the blog address means National Knit Sew Month.

I'm making some REAL progress on my surprise knitting and honestly think I could be done with it by the 2:00 warning of the Super Bowl. I have a few things that may interfere with that deadline but I still think I'll be close to having it done. Thank heavens for a cool project done on size 11 needles!

Speaking of the Super Bowl, I want to give a SHOUT OUT to the

INDIANAPOLIS COLTS!

I'm pulling for you! I'm pretty sure Neighbor Knitter has your back too!

Did you miss me?

2007-01-31T13:17:00.000-05:00

I've been working up another SAL project that I will post when it is no longer a surprise.

Went to see my friends who had twins yesterday. I wasn't able to see the babies yet but hope to over the weekend. I've seen several pictures of them and they are adorable. They had a boy and a girl! Sweet, sweet, sweet!!!

More later.

"Caroline"

2007-01-24T13:32:00.000-05:00

Come learn more about Caroline at my SAL!

All Buttoned Up!

2007-01-23T10:25:00.000-05:00

Here is the "Sweet Pea Purse" with the button closure attached.

For more info visit my Stash-A-Long site!

Caterpillar Baby Pillow Pattern

2007-01-22T17:48:00.000-05:00

Check out my SAL site for a new post.

Here is a photo, all-be-it poorly done, of the cover of the little book that had the baby pillow pattern in it. The finished size is about that of a dinner plate. So cute and just right for a little love bug.

This is what one of the pillows I created looks like. This one is for Knitty Yoda's precious new baby, Flora. If you haven't seen a picture of her yet you can sneak a peek at Neighbor Knitter's site.

Items I finished in 2006 and never posted!

2007-01-20T12:30:00.000-05:00

Here are some baby gifts I made for my friend Kara who is expecting twins. These were given to her at a shower held before Thanksgiving. I was waiting to post them until I gave Knitty Yoda a caterpillar pillow for her baby.

All of the shoes are crocheted from an Annie's Attic pattern book. There are so many cute pairs of booties in it!

The pink and blue hats with the top knots are the umbilical cord hats from The Stitch N'Bitch book.

This little white hat was found via Crochet Pattern Central's (CPC) site.

This one was also found through CPC's site. I have to say that they were both really fun and quick to make!

Umm... I'm not sure where I found the red hat. I will have to do some investigating but it is just a simple hat made with front post double crochets at the rim so that it looks like a rib knit.

These are caterpillar pillows for a baby's sweet little head to rest on. I found this great pattern in a small pamphlet at my local grocery store check-out. It has no ISBN and I've not been able to find a link for it anywhere. I simply knitted 2 horse-shoe shapes, sewed them together and filled with polyfill. Then I made and eye cord and sewed it on. Lastly came the eyes and the antenne. I love how unique they are!

Happy Saturday

2007-01-20T11:29:00.000-05:00

I haven't stopped smiling since I met baby Yoda yesterday. Mind you, that sweet baby looks NOTHING like the real yoda but oh so much like Knitty Yoda and the rest of the clan. Sweeeeeett!

I've completed 2 more stash-a-long projects and am ready to complete another before the weekend is over. Check the SAL site for pics.

While I pressed the scarf using a squirt bottle and low heat, look what Miss Knotty got into! She has having a grand 'ol time squirting her face and drinking the water.

I wanted to post some other pics that I've been late in sharing with y'all. This is Miss K with Momma K in December. They're at my parents home in Georgia riding the E-Z-Go with Sadie the Yorkie. Yes, the dog does have on a visor. Cute isn't it? Even though Miss K was feeling under the weather, I really love this picture.

Happy knitting and hooking y'all!

YIPPPEEEE!!!

2007-01-18T16:07:00.000-05:00

I don't want to be the one to make the big announcement for Ann (Yoda) but I do want to say that she had the baby this afternoon and all are doing well. I'm sure she will be excited to share her news when she's ready. I'm VERY VERY excited and happy for them all!

ANTICIPATION!

2007-01-18T12:04:00.000-05:00

I'm sitting here anxiously awaiting the phone to ring to find out if Knitty Yoda has a girl or a boy and it is plain ol' making me a nervous Nellie!

Keep up thoughts and prayers for you Ann!

SAL projects getting done!

2007-01-16T09:31:00.000-05:00

Pop on over to the Stash-a-Long site (button is conveniently located to your right) and see what I've created! Here's a little hint for you:

It started out like this:

What's on my hook and needles

2007-01-14T13:35:00.000-05:00

I'm about 95% done with a purse I'm making from the Interweave Crochet's Fall 2005 issue. I should have it done by tonight.

I'm about 80% done with a hat for my SIL's b-day which is next week. I also want to make her a scarf to match so I'd better get busy!

A few babies will be beorn to several friends of mine in the next few weeks and days and I have a few "Welcome Baby" gifts that I need to crank out. It sure seems that these babies come all grouped together.

Photos to come!

In general I won't discuss news items on my blog, but I felt the need to comment on how happy I was that the 2 young men/boys were found safely in Missourri on Friday! It didn't seem as though it wouldn't have a happy ending, these things often don't, but Thank You God!!! that this time it did. These boys, especially the one who had been missing 4-5 years, will need continue support and prayer.

Miss Knotty in the New Year!

2007-01-08T14:00:00.000-05:00

Miss Knotty says "I'm baaaacccckkkk!!"

Here she is in her cupcake hat from the Naked Sheep. Since this was also from my stash so I am going to enter it on the
my stash-a-long site. It was fun and easy to knit. I wasn't too excited about sewing all the "sprinkles" on one at the time but it really made a difference in the overall appearance of the hat. Best of all, my girl loves it and will wear it with that big 'ol smile on her face!!!

Here is the Stash-A-Long Info!!

2007-01-08T13:25:00.000-05:00

Here is the official website for my stash-a-long!

And here is the official button!

Please check it out. The "rules of engagement" are there. Can't wait to see what you create and how long you can go without having to buy yarn!

Time for me to do an "A-long"

2006-12-31T17:57:00.000-05:00

In the spirit of joining things and creating things for others to join, I wanted to create a Year Long Stash-A-Long! That's right folks, I intend to do my best to knit and crochet only from the megastash I have created. Now I'm sure there will be the ocassional gotta have a bit of this or that, but as far as projects greater than one skein, that yarn best come from the closet!!

I don't have a button or a blog for this BAL as of yet. I will get back to y'all on that minor detail. If you want to participate just comment on this post and I'll keep a list on my side bar of all the excited and dedicated participants.

I began this BAL this morning when I put the finishing touches on Miss K's cupcake hat. I'm pretty pleased with the end result and will post a photo and commentary in the next day or two.

There is one disclaimer I must include... I may have the chance to purchase some additional yarn at a deeply discounted price and that may influence me a little but, I am going to do my best to stick to this plan. If nothing else, I will only work on the things I've already purchased yarn for so that any new yarn I buy will have to be earmarked for a specific project that will have to be completed in 2008!

My biggest concern is that I have so many projects on my list that I am not sure that I will be able to complete all that I have in the next 365 days! That sounds like a lot of days, but I have many projects to complete.

Here is the list that I currently working from:
1. Complete 1 sock of a pair for Mr. K ASAP
2. A toboggan hat and some matching thing (probably a scarf) for Mr. K's sister's B-day that is in 2 weeks.
3. Finish a sweater for Sister K that was started for Momma K 3 years ago but is the wrong size (check guage!!!) Only have to close the under arm seams
4. sweater #2 for Momma K
5. Surprise project #1 this spring
6. Spring sweater for self
7. Clapotis for self
8. Dress for Miss Knotty that I have enough yarn to do for her for 2008 so that may have to be next year.
9. Scarf for MIL K
10. Yet another sweater for self
11. Complete a few baby gifts
12. Create a few baby gifts
13. Winter sweater for Mr. K
14. Finish a sweater I started last year that I'm not sure if I have enough yarn to finish! :-0
15. Finish a ribbon pocket book that I started a long time ago
16. Make the French Market Bag
17. Short and Sweet Bolero from the Happy Hooker Happy Hooker for self

There's even more than this but I don't have the list in front of me and I'm feeling too lazy to get up and go get it. Let's just say that I have enough yarn that my stash may never end!

Hope you all have a safe and Happy New Year's eve and 2007!

FOB Big Finish!!

2006-12-27T12:55:00.000-05:00

Borrowed from Knitty Yoda

FOB #3 Three projects that are happily now on my to-do list:

3. Finish two vests I'm crocheting - 1 of which will be ready in the next 36 hours and best of all, these are for ME! ME! ME!
2. Make a sweater for Momma K.
1. Start Mr. K's sweater

FOB #2 The two best Christmas Presents I received a child

2. This one is a bit of a tie my Fisher Price Little People barn, house, school and town. I spent hours upon hours playing with these. Best of all, I still have them! They are at my parents' home and will be there for Miss K to play with when she visits them. Also in 2nd place would have to be the FAB Springbok jigsaw puzzles I received each Christmas. I got one each year and I still have most if not all of them. I even cruised the ailes at the local Hallmark store to see what was available this year. I haven't received one in years but I still want them!

1. My roller skates. I felt so free on these things! I could go fast or slow, forwards or backwards, I could shake my groove thang or I could be formal and reserved. It was MY thing. I skated because I loved it not because it was a hand-me-down activity from a sibling. I want to take Miss K skating some time and have her say "WHOA! I didn't know Mommy could move like that!" :-)

FOB #1 The thing I want most for Christmas.

I have to say that I was with Knitty Yoda on this one! Mr K. asked me over and over what I wanted and that was really all that seemed to matter. I want my girl and my neice and nephews to grow up in a world that is safe for them to exploree. I want them to appreciate other cultures while preserving their own, but not seeing something that is "different" as "wrong."

I did received some lovely items and am happy to have them but would gladly trade them all for my #1 wish.

FOB #4

2006-12-22T10:51:00.000-05:00

F.O.B #4: What task are you glad to be finished with?

4. The annual mailing of the Christmas cards - I like doing these.
3. The annual 450-mile holiday trek (900 round trip) - Good to go away, good to come back home.
2. Giving Miss Knotty a ton of medication to get her over the croup (came down with it first night we were at my family's home) as she HATES having that stuff squirted in her mouth!
1. The pedicure socks I'd been looking at since the summer. Mind you I still have flip-flops and yarn, so there will be others, but I'm done for now! :-)

FOBs 11-5

2006-12-20T22:37:00.000-05:00

FOB # 11 Eleven holiday favorite films.

11. Elf
10. Emmet Otter's Jugband Christmas
9. White Christmas
8. The Christmas Story
7. Little Drummer Boy
6. For Mr. Knotty, Christmas in Connecticut
5. The Christmas Box
4. The Walton's Christmas Movie
3. Charlie Brown Christmas
2. The Original Grinch (Cartoon/Animated)
1. Frosty the Snowman

FOB # 10 short statements summarizing what advice you would give another person, the 10 most important lessons you've learned so far." These for me are the first things that came to mind. I'm sure there are others that are more important than these.

10. "No one wants your bad attitude so keep it to yourself."
9. "Don't ask the question unless you are prepared for the answer."
8. "No one can make you feel inferior without your consent."
7. "For reasons that are completely unknown to you, there will be people who just don't like you."
6. "Try to live the most authentic life you can and don't have regrets about that."
5. "The most influential role model for a child is the same-sex parent. Try not to pass your 'junk' on to them."
4. "A short pencil is usually better than a long memory."
3. "You can do most anything you set your mind to, therfore "I can't" is just a mindset."
2. One of the Beattitudes: "Don't date someone that wouldn't make a good mate because you never know when you may fall in love."
1. Trying to follow The Golden Rule is a real challenge. I like a challenge, and honestly I'm still a work in progress; prone to make mistakes.

F.O.B. #9 "Bits of info about the number 9" I wonder who came up with this one!? :-)

9. 9 is actually the 10th number if you start counting with 0
8. The sqaure root of 9 is 3.
7. If you turn a 9 upside down it looks like a 6
6. If you turn it on its side it looks like French horn
5. If you turn it the other way it looks like a snail.
4. On the 9th day of Christmas my true love gave me Nine Ladies Dancing
3. August is the 9th month
2. Reading from left to right, 9 is the 10th key on the 2nd row of this keyboard
1. 9 is the number of lame items on this list.

FOB #8 8 projects I'm working on or have recently completed.

8. Miss Knotty's cupcake hat
7. Pedicure socks for Sister Knotty
6. Surprise for Mr. Knotty
5. Bolero for myself
6. Flower washcloth for friend of Knotty
5. LOTS OF BABY knitting for friends of Knotty
4. The dress that never ends (need to sew one seam)
3. Bolero to match the dress that never ends (need to sew 2 underarm seams)
2. Shawl with yarn from Sister Knotty
1. Baby item for yet another pregnant friend!

F.O.B. # 7: What knitterly items would you most like to receive this holiday?

7. Interweave Knits mag (Thanks Mom Knotty!)
6. Interweave Crochet mag (hoping MIL Knotty will give me this one)
5. The Opionated Knitter by E. Z.
4. Knitting Without Tears also by E.Z.
3. To awaken and find that all incomplete projects had magically finished themselves.
2. I'd like to find a lotion that rejuvenates tired knitting and crocheting hands.
1. I'd like the ability to find more ways to share my love of knitting and crocheting with others. A gift that keeps on giving.

F.O.B. #6 When do you procrastinate?

6. When it involves a PAP smear.
5. When it means putting down needlework for chores I don't want to do
4. When it involves taking out the dogs in the cold night air.
3. When it involves laundry
2. When I know that it can just plain ol' wait until tomorrow.
1. When it involves doing something for someone who doesn't do things to help themselves.

FOB #5 How I satisfy my different senses during the holiday season.

5. Sight - Love to look at Christmas lights and outdoor decorations!
4. Taste - Christmas home-baked goods!
3. Touch - Rubbing the red-rosy cheeks of my Angel baby
2. Sound - listening to Christmas carols and music
1. Smell - Smelling pine needles on real Christmas trees

Still playing along

2006-12-15T15:51:00.000-05:00

I'm still a FOB girl but this week I've also been a get the laundry done, pack the car, wrap the gifts and knit like a maniac girl!!! We leave tomorrow for a short stay with my family and holiday time with them. I will be back next week and will catch up on the FOB.

To Brooke: No worries and thanks for the APB. I didn't even read your lists the past few days for all the reasons stated above. In regards to your little fella, have the ruled out reverse peristalsis?

Gotta run! Next week!

FOB #12

2006-12-13T17:29:00.000-05:00

Here are my 12 "I Will Not" vows that I make every holiday season that seem destined to be broken.

12. Intentionally deleted

11. Intentionally deleted

10. Intentionally deleted

9. I will not become irritated when I see kids open their gifts and look around like "that's all we got from you? Great." At that moment I would like to whip out the Little House on the Prairie episode when all they got was a new tin cup, a candy cane, an orange and a penny. Take that!

8. I will not cry when I watch "Emmit Otter's Jugband Christmas."

7. I will not miss the Christmas Eve service at Church.

6. I will not stress eat my way through the holidays.

5. I will get plenty of rest while visiting my parents.

4. Mr. Knotty and I will not have an arguement caused my the tension-induced environments we are in at that moment.

3. I will not have ugly photos taken of myself.

2. I will remain calm when my child starts to get cranky while traveling. It could me as a pregnant woman riding on a donkey's back to "get counted."

1. I will, this one is a real promise, not a sarcastic one, try very hard to remain focused on the reason for Christmas. It's Jesus' birthday. He is the best gift we've ever received, a Saviour. That's why we give gifts, to celebrate His birth and the promises God made us for eternal life when He gave us Jesus. It's not about any of the things mentioned above. When I remember this, everything else becomes so meaningless. "God Bless Us Everyone." - Tiny Tim

Merry Christmas!

FOB #13

2006-12-12T13:41:00.000-05:00

What, as a mature, rational adult, do you still believe beyond all fact and reason?

13. That I WILL be a size 10 again.

12. That your own gas will never smell as bad to you as someone elses.

11. That Bret Favre will win a Super Bowl ring.

10. That my youngest labrador retriever will grow up and calm down.

9. Intentionally left blank!

8. That one of these days I will get my basement clean.

7. That one of these days I will knit and crochet my way through my yarn stash! HA!

6. That my dear husband will finally understand me and give "girl-like" responses when I'm having a crisis, and that he will not take the typical-male "What-do-you-want-me-to-do-about-it" position.

5. That my child will rapidly pass through her terrible 2's.

4. That there are angels among us. One brought us our daughter. Really happened.

3. That God has a plan for me in this life and beyond.

2. I beleive the children are our future. Teach them well and let them lead the way. Show them all the beauty they possess inside.

1. That music soothes the savage beast. It sure calms down Miss K!

FOB #14

2006-12-11T17:41:00.000-05:00

You want me to come up with 14?!?!

14. It's easier to knit in short sleeves because my needles (the ends) always get caught in my cuffs. The exception here is knitting with a cable needle. Crocheting does not discriminate against your attire.

13. Yarn that is particularly hard to frog because it is snagging on itself should be, in the words of Col. Klink, "be sent to the coolah!" It will let go a bit easier if it is frozen a more brittle.

12. Placement of the facial features on a hand-made animal or doll is critical to the final look it will have. It's amazing what moving eyes a fraction of an inch will do to the expression!

11. Excessive secret and holiday knitting and crocheting will dry your hands out and make them rough where the yarn repeatedly touches them.

10. My husband's hunting headlamps is the best in-the-dark knitting tool going! It has 3 shades of light, one of which is green and it's really easier on the eyes.

9. As a new knitter I became a needle snob. I had crocheted with metal hooks for so long that I loved the thought of bamboo and wood needles. Now I realize the value in the metal hooks and needles and am a needle snob no more.

8. Also after learning to knit I became a knit snob. I thought that crocheting was for people much older than me. How dumb is that? Now I know the error of my ways and see that they are each a beautiful and wonderful work of art and when combined form a delicous feast for the eyes!

7. I did not expect to become tearful the first time I covered up Miss Knotty with the blanket I made when I was still pregnant. Now that she is old enough to sleep with a blanket I really love covering her up with the one I crocheted in my 3rd trimester.

6. Zip-Lock style bags really are the best things to carry your current, working projects in! Everything stays right in place from the pattern to the hook/needle and the yarn is protected from accidents and toddlers! On that same note, I like to put all the yarn I've purchased for a particular project in one of these. Then I write the name of the project, what book the pattern is in, and what size I was planning on it to be.

5. I lke to store my free and downloaded patterns in page protectors. I place these in notebooks and have them organized by what they are: accessories, baby wear, sweaters, toys, etc.

4. You will be surprised how many resources there are on the web - patterns, tutorials, yarn sources, friendly blogs, etc.

3. I am still learning so much about knitting and crocheting. I've been crocheting for 13 years and knitting for 4 years and with every project I learn something new.

2. People who craft in any fashion are generally out-going, resourceful, bright, fun-loving and helpful!

1. There is nothing like seeing someone wear and enjoy what you've created! Especially your little sweetheart!

FOB # 15

2006-12-10T17:58:00.000-05:00

My top 15 most memorable moments:

15. I know it is sooo predictable so I might as well get it out of the way. It may be cliche' to some but it is so very true - the day Miss Knotty was born.

14. Being at game 7 and seeing the 'Canes win the Stanley Cup

13. Completing the marathons - each very different in their own way, both extremely emotional experiences

12. White water rafting the class 5 on the Chattooga River (the same one Deliverance was filmed on)

11. My first day in another country (Germany June, 1993)

10. The first time I took a road trip alone - boy how I loved that freedom

9. Seeing a rather large and dark spider with a trout minnow in its clutches. It was one summer on the South Toe River just outside of Little Switzerland, NC

8. The Christmas I got my speed skates with the blue spruce wheels and grand prix toe stop. I WAS the deal! (6th grade)

7. Marching band in high school. Loved performing and being part of a much bigger unit. I still dream about band.

6. Graduating from college - especially my 1st BS and my Masters. I'm the only one of my parent's children to graduate from college and I did it 3 times over. Even more amazing, a college counselor told me once I would be old and gray before I ever got a degree. Huh! I showed her! Take that Dr. Polly Adams!

5. Going to Auburn football games with my friend Gref Stalnaker. I wonder what he's doing now. He was a dear friend but we lost touch years ago.

4. Working at a Methodist church camp in Dahlonega, GA one summer. I was the lifeguard living a "Meatballs" kinda life! (reason #10 came to pass)

3. Backpacking on Cumberland Island, GA with my friends from #4. That was one cool experience!

2. Saving space here for another terrific moment! Don't want to use 'em all up!

1. Meeting my husband. It was a really chance and short-lived meeting (just me helping him carry his dinner plate to a table, no names exchanged, just pleasantries) and we didn't see each other again for several months but neither of us forgot the other.

FOB # 16

2006-12-10T12:29:00.000-05:00

Here are my 8 boy and 8 girl names for Baby Yoda! I am trying to remember who my audience is here and choose for the Yodas. And for Pete's sake would someone tell Mr. Yoda that a short name for a sports playing GIRL might also be necessary! :-D

Girl's:
1. My first choice a girl is: Smithie!!! Love the family history you have associated with this.
2. Phoebe
3. Elise, Emma or Emily (and not just because I have a dear friend with that name)
4. June ('cause we all know you channel the Cleavers at your house!)
5. Ruth (This one and the next are from my g'mas
6. Estella
7. Meredith (I do love this name!)
8. Lillian or Lily

Boy's
1. Ian (One of the names I had on my own list)
2. Liam (If Miss Knotty had been a boy she would've been William and called Liam)
3. Joshua
4. Noah
5. What's wrong with Steve?
6. Sean (sounded godd with their last name but somehow doesn't have a ring with B's)
7. Can you use a familial last name?
8. Connor

Ok, I know these are the greatest names or that you even like these, but name choice is such a personal topic. I do wish you luck!

I want to be in the BAL!!

2006-12-09T14:43:00.000-05:00

Here are my attempts to catch up on posts 20-16!

20 Things you may not know about Mz. Knotty

20. I am somehow comforted by small amounts of clutter. Too much = madness, too little - sterility.
19. I took music in school from 5th grade through my senior year in high school and probably couldn't play a note now if I had to! But let a marching band play and I will tear up instantly!
18. I love to fly-fish with my husband. I also like to bass fish, but not quite as much.
17. I've completed 2 Disney marathons (2000 & 2002)
16. I like bluegrass music, especially when I'm camping.
15. I like "rump-shaker" music, especially at the beach or if out with the girls. But I don't ever go out with the girls anymore unless it is to the yarn store or the playground.
14. I don't eat beef or pork because of a moment at Zack's. Nothing wrong with the food mind you, just me seeing dead animals instead of food. Somehow there was no problem with the first chili dog but the second one seemed to have a cow and pig with little X's over their eyes. And that my dears was about 5 years ago.
13. I like making new dishes for us to try.
12. I'm sentimental about items that came from my grandmother's kitchens.
11. I am the youngest of 3.
10. If I could choose any God given talent it would probably be being a paino or violin virtuoso or singing.
9. I like the way crayons and play-doh smell.
8. I like to work in the yard - mow the grass, plant flowers, dig in the dirt.
7. If I went back to school to start a new career it would be in meteorology, cosmetology or as a physician assistant. I like science but I want to be stylish too! I also wouldn't mind being a personal shopper.
6. I have a secret desire to be in community theater but I lack the necessary talent!
5. I am terrified of tornadoes! That's one of the reasons I'm so into meteorlogy!
4. I am terrible at remembering things like: lines for a movie, books I've read, if I've taken my medicine (when I am taking something), who played who in what sporting event - even if I was there in the stands!
3. If I could return to any previous vacation spot in the world it would be Hawaii! If it were a new vacation place I think I would choose New Zealand.
2. Since 9/11 I've been terrified to fly.
1. I have an entire dance routine of my own creation to "Baby Got Back!"

19 Favorite Characters - Seeing how I'm not the literary marvel that some of you are, you are going to find my list quite laughable.

19. Bridget Jones - much like me when I dated
18. Charlotte in Charlotte's Web - Smooth as velvet and such a dear friend
17. The main female character in Circle of Friends. Don't remember her name. (See #4 above) - thought she and I had a bit of something in common and I so cheared for her. I liked the book better than the movie
16. Bill Cosby as the Dad on The Cosby Show - what a cool dad!
15. Jodie Foster's charachter in Somersby - Wilderness women are amazing to me!
14. Cindy Lou Who - She never lost site of the potential love in the Grinch's heart and her faith in the people of Whoville.
13. Reese Witherspoon's character in Legally Blonde - I like a girl who won't take "No" for an answer.
12. The mouse and the cricket in The Cricket in Times Square - great book to read to a school-aged kid.
11. Laura Ingalls Wilder - see #15
10. Any of the Steel Magnolias - would like to be one of those myself
9. Hermione - wouldn't mind knowing a little of that wizard's magic
8. Glenda the Good Witch of the North
7. Margaret in Are You There God, It's Me Margaret because she helped me realize that everyone experiences crazy feelings of love and hate at their parents in those pubescent years.
6. Oscar the Grouch - because he would complain with me about having to come up with 5 more of these
5. Bert and Ernie because they would work together as a team to come up with 4 more.
4. The Count because he would provide the final 3 countdown
3. Cookie Monster because he would assist in eating away the stress this is giving me
2. Any character in a book that makes Miss Knotty laugh!
1. Kermit the Frog - WHEW!!

18 things in my kitchen - this will be a much faster post!

18. A Package of D batteries to take to the Babies Morning Out on Wed.
17. Mr. Knotty's Master Gardener notebook
16. The Thanksgiving placemat that Miss K made
15. The coffee pot - really should've come with its own i.v. drip line for me
14. A rubber dining out mat that we use when we take Miss K out to restaurants
13. My Happy Hooker book
12. Receipts that I'm not yet ready to part with
11. A pony tail holder
10. Recycling that needs to be taken out
9. Recipe cards that need refiling
8. A large pot of rosemary that I used to cook with this afternoon
7. One from my collection of Sharpie markers
6. Crumbs and stains that need attention
5. My jewelry
4. Lock for the gym locker
3. Headphones for the gym treadmills
2. The carafe from the shower that needs to be washed
1. A ton of knitting and crocheting things that have lost their way

17 Possessions I can't live without (most are in no particular order!)

17. Chapstick, Vaseline, or Burt's Bees lipstick
16. Moisturizer
15. Miss Knotty's ducky
14. My Debbie Stoller S-n-B book
13. My headlamp for knitting in the dark
12. My own pillow when I travel
11. My knitting bag with enough projects that I will never run out
10. My grandmother's cast iron skillet
9. Southern Living at Home Ultimate Cookbook
8. Dansko clogs
7. The jeans that fit me the best (are there any?)
6. Spanx (assist wiht #7)
5. Ice cream (hinder #7)
4. My wedding rings (in spite of # 6 & 5 he still gave them to me!)
3. Curious George - allows me 30 minutes peace of mind
2. My daughters sweet laughter
1. My husband's warm smile when he brings me a cup of coffee each morning

16 names will have to be in tomorrow's catch-up post. I don't want to rush something so important!

NC Mountains October 2006

2006-10-30T13:18:00.000-05:00

I just realized I never published this!

"Vacation, all I ever wanted. Vacation, I need to get away." - The Go-Go's

View from the porch on our first morning there. Ahhh..... Heaven

This is the largest trout I've ever caught! Though he may be small he is mighty!

More images another time!

Miss Knotty Goes to the NC State Fair

2006-10-30T12:56:00.000-05:00

Before we went on our mountain vaca we went to the State Fair. Mr. Knotty, who had never been to the fair, also went along. We had a great time and the weather was just right for walking around and taking in the sights. Miss K liked the animals and seemed to enjoy the goats the most. Here are a few pictures from that day.

Waiting for the next bite from Mr. Knotty

"NO Nuggets for YOU!!" She was having so much fun teasing him with lunch!

"Hey! Let's go in here and see what's shakin' at Elmo's place!"

I'm still here

2006-10-17T16:25:00.000-04:00

The last post gotten eaten by Microsoft so I will try it again. NO more than I post it really is a drag to have to write the same thing twice!

As I was saying, I have completed my Monster-A-Long Project and wanted to post it quickly while the pictures were still fresh! Pumpkins spoil you know, and this one is well on her way!! I can't wait to see what others are creating. Ann is creating many ghoulish things!

I have been very busy creating gifts, hats and a quick scarf for myself. See, I have been busy and would rather knit that post but I did want to let y'all know of my wonderful news of completed MAL project!

So I took the Star Trek Character Test

2006-09-16T17:47:00.000-04:00

Your results:
You are Spock

Spock		82%
Beverly Crusher		65%
Deanna Troi		65%
James T. Kirk (Captain)		60%
Geordi LaForge		60%
An Expendable Character (Redshirt)		60%
Mr. Scott		50%
Chekov		50%
Data		50%
Leonard McCoy (Bones)		40%
Uhura		40%
Jean-Luc Picard		40%
Will Riker		40%
Worf		40%
Mr. Sulu		15%

You are skilled in knowledge and logic.
You believe that the needs of the many
outweigh the needs of the few.

Forgive me Father... It's been almost 2 months since my last post.

2006-09-05T22:33:00.000-04:00

I've been ever so busy working on "The Dress That Never Ends" for Miss Knotty. I hope to have it ready for the fall. The back is finished. I can see the light at the end of the tunnel now as I am about to complete the bodice on the front. I will post a pic of it soon!

I've also been busy with some ebay selling - cleaning out and selling some items that I purchased just to resell on the web. So far so good. Trying to get some new furniture with the money I've made. Right now I only have earned enough to pay for part of a cushion on a sofa, better stay at it!

Throw in some housework, time with a child who loves to walk and explore the world every waking moment and you can see where the time got off to.

Current Projects Part 2

2006-07-15T12:55:00.000-04:00

Ok.. Soooo I'm making some gifts that I'd like to keep hush-hush therefore no elaborate details, but I can say that I'm MEGA frustrated with these concerns: yarn pooling, pattern selection issues, needle size (I have one number higher and one number lower than what I need, but not the one I need) and I have twice as much yarn than I need (better problem than 1/2 as much). What to do? I will make the 5th attempt to start my secret project and hope that it comes out ok so that I can complete something.

And what's worse? My knitting guru friend (see the It It's Fiber link) is out of town on vaca! Yikes!! She won't be back for a week. Let's just hope I don't have any questions that I can't solve on my own.

Miss Knotty's Posts

2006-07-12T15:23:00.000-04:00

July 16, 2006
I am officially walking and can go anywhere I want to all by my lonesome. My Grandma, Grandpa and Aunt T are coming to see me tomorrow and I plan to show them what I can do! Boy will they be impressed.

Today I got two new CD's from the mailman and Amazon.com. They are Dan Zanes and Friends House Party and Family Dance. I'd post the link but it's too long and messes up the pretty page Mommy made.

July 12, 2006
I'm currently 14 months old and on this site my name is "Miss Knotty." Thank goodness it's not "Miss Naughty!" These are some the first pigtails I've ever had. My mommy took these at the end of May '06.

I can finally walk with a little help and sometimes without. My intesets are my Ducky, a string or piece of yarn, going outside, puppets, Baby Einstein videos and music of all kinds. My favorite food right now is cantaloupe!

Current Projects

2006-07-12T12:46:00.000-04:00

I'm making a dress for Miss Knotty using a pattern in Baby Knits for Beginners by Debbie Bliss using Rowan's All Season Cotton. I love the yarn but can't figure out why the hem keeps rolling. This is the 2nd attempt at this same section. One can't help but wonder if there is rolling because the yarn got a bit twisted when I began ripping the 1st attempt? I'm considering putting it aside and starting another section to see if I have the same problem.

I'm also working on a few surprises for people I know and love. Since I can't say more about that at this time, y'all will just have to wait and see!

Creations that Preceded this Blog

2006-07-12T11:07:00.000-04:00

The boots were the first thing I made for our baby before "it" was born in April '05. We hung one with the stockings at Christmas while I was still pregnantl. I loved that they were rugged and outdoorsy while also being soft in texture. The pattern is from Candi Jensen when she appeared on the DIY network. A link to her book is with the bomber hat pic. Here is the pattern: http://www.diynetwork.com/diy/na_knitting/ Scroll until you see "Suede Booties." They are made using Beroccco suede and Crema. After she was born I made her a pink pair of these using Annie Oakley from Berocco (see links below) . Sweater is from the cover of Debbie Bliss' Special Knits for Babies : 22 Gorgeous Handknits for Babies using 1824 Cotton in Maize. http://www.missionfalls.com.

I made a crib blanket using Bernat's Cotton Tots yarn in Koolade http://www.bernat.com/product.php?LGC=cottontots. I will post that in a few days. The pattern is a simple repeated shell that I improvised to get the dimensions I wanted to fit her crib. I added the edge and border so there would be a definitive top and bottom to it.

Believe it or not, after years of crocheting and wanting to learn to knit, a pumpkin hat was what really pushed me to learn. Tyne Daly was on the Rosie O'Donnell show and she had made hats for Rosie's children. I thought they were cute and that I had to make one! Strange but true. This pattern is from http://knitting.about.com/library/blpumpkin.htm and the yarn is Lion Brand Yarn http://www.lionbrand.com/ in Mango and Lime. I added the leaf motif from a pattern in Nicky Epstein's Knitting on the Edge.

This bomber hat is also made from Berocco Suede in Wild Bill Hickcock and Roy Rogers. The fleece is their Plush in Crema. http://www.berroco.com/shade_cards/suede_sh.html. The pattern is by Candi Jensen on DIY's site http://www.diynetwork.com/diy/na_knitting/ Scroll down until you see "Suede Baby Hat." Candi is the author of Candy Babies : Cute Crochet For Wee Ones.
The fleecy little strap is so soft that she never seemed to notice it was there.

I also made her http://knitty.com/ISSUEspring04/PATTanouk.html using different colors. Will have to post a pic of that later.

Additionally, I made her a Christmas hat that I don't have a picture of yet. More excitement to come.