Sunday, November 28, 2010

Episode 99 is Live!

Eileensvest.jpg

Wow! RedsKnits made me a lovely vest! LOVE IT!!

Add yourself to our CogKNITive Listeners Map!
Ask your questions for our 100th episode here.

What's On My Hook/Needles/Spindle: The list:

The Secret Yuletide Gift is finished! Hooray!
Some Orchard Mitts in my spun up samples from the 2009 CogKNITive Fiber Retreat.

Ishbel Shawl --I haven't returned to it yet.
The Argante Shawl--Not this month.

Abstract Fibers

Dizzy Blondes:

Zarzuela's Fibers--Stormy Dawn

AlpenGlow Yarns

BeeMiceElf

TrueLove Fibers

Strategy: Say "Thank you"--or show it clearly when you are grateful to someone.

Something I Really Like: Being an adult student in a chemistry class

Blather: Life on the One Yard as a Hippie Look-Alike

Thursday, November 11, 2010

Episode 97

Lisa Souza's umbria plied

Did I mention that I love Lisa Souza's dye jobs?

Add yourself to our CogKNITive Listeners Map!
Ask your questions for our 100th episode here.

What's On My Hook/Needles/Spindle: The list:

Yes, I am working monogamously on a secret Yuletide gift. For a listener. No more info. Dang it!
Ishbel Shawl --I haven't returned to it yet.
The Argante Shawl--Not this month.

Dizzy Blondes:

Zarzuela's Fibers--Stormy Dawn

Lisa Souza Knits

Freckle Face Fibers

Blue Moon Fiber Arts:--Atomic 6

Strategy: Listen to the people to whom you've given authority.

Something I Really Like: Trick or Treat! Now I know what parents are really up to...

Blather: A bit about work and a lot about the 2010 CogKNITive Fiber Retreat

Sunday, November 7, 2010

AT LAST!! Out-Takes Episode: CFR 2010--Friday Evening Dinner

Office security
One of my office's Official Security Ravens.

Here's a brief recording we all made while at dinner on the first evening of the CFR 2010. Fun? You betta believe! Enjoy! Episode 97 is on the way!

Thursday, September 23, 2010

Episode 96 at Last!

Working in my office today

Hey Look!!! It's my new office for private practice!

Add yourself to our CogKNITive Listeners Map!
Ask your questions for our 100th episode here.

CogKNITive Fiber Retreat OFFICIAL DATE: Saturday October 2, 2010! Go check out the main CFR 2010 thread on Ravelry for details. We are on the waitlist, which is at 6 names right now.

My warmest thanks to Susan of KnitAJourney Podcast for the delightful chat and interview, which you can find here. It was a blast for me, Susan--thanks for making me sound so coherent!

What's On My Hook/Needles/Spindle: The list:

The Daybreak Shawl is done!!!
Ishbel Shawl --I haven't returned to it yet.
The Argante Shawl--Not this month.
The Traveling Woman Shawl--I crashed and started it in my gogeous Squash Blossom SW Merino from Lisa Souza.

Dizzy Blondes:

Zarzuela's Fibers--Stormy Dawn
stormy dawn plied


Lisa Souza Knits--Umbria
umbria plied

Freckle Face Fibers (fiber courtesy of Jasmin of the Knitmores--Thanks!)--Scottish Thistle
fff singles

Dyeing for Colour--mixed blues pencil rovings
SW merino blue stripes

Blue Moon Fiber Arts:--Atomic 6
atomic6 handspun


OMG!!! KnittingBrow and PhotoSteve actually declared September 8  to be "Dr. Gemma Appreciation Day"! I'm not kidding! I had my own day and everything! What a cool 50th birthday present! It's right here. And don't worry--it's never too late to appreciate me (insert smirk).

Strategy: Follow your bliss. Expect delays and detours. But follow your bliss!


Something I Really Like:  My new office. A room of one's own, indeed.
 
Blather: Ch--ch-ch-changes.... I squeal at last on the the rotten team-mates to the Chief Psychologist and his Assistant, I crash brutally, I see lots of doctors, I get a lot of love and support, and I get a private practice. And I study chemistry like a madwoman. Top it all off with an emotional and heartfelt expression of gratitude at getting to turn 50 and have the best listeners out there.

Friday, September 3, 2010

Update--I'm Recovering Nicely, Thank You

Yet another update:

plying to do!

I am doing a LOT of spinning.
This is because I now have 6 weeks of paid time off, with no loss of vacation or sick or furlough time.
This is because I won my Workman's Compensation case for job-induced stress.
This is because I went to the ER 2 weeks ago today and complained of chest pains that would not stop (The EKGs showed that my heart is not only fine but in excellent shape, thanks to years of running.)
This is because I went to the Chief Psychologist earlier that day about working conditions on my yard and refused to ever return to my yard.
This is because the Acting Chief Psychologist called the Chief in, due to the state I was in and the abuses I was reporting.
This is because my supervisor felt it necessary to scream at me publicly and accuse me of absurd things.
This is because she figured out that I had already spoken to the Acting Chief Psychologist, and she went into a panic.
This is because my supervisor knew that I have an excellent reputation for hard work and professionalism, and she has been guilty in front of me for months, due to the stuff she has allowed to go on within our yard. She has been afraid I'd squeal, in other words.
This is because I did, indeed, squeal.
This is because my supervisor and former team-mates colluded to get a friend from another yard in trouble because he acted professionally a week before, and took over a committee when they were 45 minutes late for the committee. I listened to them lie throughout a staff meeting and arrange with my supervisor exactly how they would lie to damage his reputation.

And that was my breaking point.

And I went for help.

The Chief stated that he already had corroborating evidence for the accusations I was making. He tore apart the team. One person (I'll let you guess who) was reviewed for firing, as she had represented herself as licensed when she is not. That is illegal in CA. The cops (who loathe her anyway) report that she spent a week walking around "blubbery." I guess someone met the Chief in a Bad Way.

I am assigned to the One Yard with a team whose members I know and love and with whom I have worked before.

I am furiously working on my chemistry class, sleeping a lot, crying a bit, spinning when I am not doing any of the above, and starting to return to my old self. I return to work on October 6th at the earliest. I am starting to answer old mails thru Ravelry and regualr email, so my apologies if you have not yet heard from me, but I'll get on it. No more headaches from the concussion, either. It's amazing what 2 weeks off have done to heal me.

My 50th Birthday is tomorrow. I gave my myself the best gift possible--I took action and fixed things.

And I am SO GRATEFUL to you all, because I know a lot of praying and good energy were being sent at me to help me reach this place. 2,000 listeners doing that for me is a humbling and incredible thought. Witty, Humane, and Intelligent--and spiritual in the best ways.

My love also to Straphanging, who has kept the CFR on track with some gentle nudges at me at the right times. Also to the members of the AV Fiber Fiends, including (but not limited to) Loretta1031, Stashymama, HeyMindy, Casdena, LimeJuicy, Lexicom, FamilyDiva,and Jedimom

I gotta go ply and do some chemistry today! My grateful love to you all. Episode 96 WILL happen!

Tuesday, August 10, 2010

Episode 95 is Live!--but a Little Brain-Damaged

Squash blossom finished!

I spun up the lovely Squash Blossom colorway of Lisa Souza's SW Merino. Even with a concussion, it came out beautifully.

Add yourself to our CogKNITive Listeners Map!
Ask your questions for our 100th episode here.

CogKNITive Fiber Retreat OFFICIAL DATE: Saturday October 2, 2010! Go check out the main CFR 2010 thread on Ravelry for details. We are on the waitlist, which is at 6 names right now.

My warmest thanks to Susan of KnitAJourney Podcast for the delightful chat and interview, which you can find here. It was a blast for me, Susan--thanks for making me sound so coherent!

What's On My Hook/Needles/Spindle: The list:

The Daybreak Shawl--I am on the last section and trying to stay as monogamous on this as possible. Which is pretty challenging, considering that I am staring at this pile of gorgeous handspun I churned out in the Tour de Fleece... BTW, I stuck to the original 2 blues for colors. It's just a pretty blue shawl.

Ishbel Shawl --Okay, I lied. I haven't returned to it yet.
The Argante Shawl--Not this week.
The Traveling Woman Shawl--I crashed and started it in my gogeous Squash Blossom SW Merino! It's turning out wonderfully!

Dizzy Blondes:
I am mainly back to regualr spinning of singles. I finished the 8 ounces of Squash Blossom and double-plied it. Currently, I am whizzing through some Abstract Fibers BFL in colorway Mt Hood Rose. It wants to be laceweight. Hmmmm. Waiting for Zarzuela to finish custom-dyeing some Merino in the amazing Stormy dawn colorway.
Abstract Fiber
Zarzuela's Fibers
Lisa Souza Knits
Freckle Face Fibers

Strategy: Working on homesickness--concerning transitional objects and good ways to say "goodbye for just a while."

Something I Really Like:  The new Ipod app "SockCalc." Use it with a good gauge swatch to tailor-make your socks to fit!

Blather: Hey! Who knew that a concussion to lead to so many interesting adventures! Now if only it would go away...

Wednesday, August 4, 2010

Episode 94 is Live!

My TdF Navajo-plied successes

Here is my Navajo plying: top to bottom: Freckle Face Fibers turquoise, samples from the 2009 CogKNITive Fiber Retreat, More FFF.

Congratulations, Team CogSPINtive!!! The Tour de Fleece is finished and we made the proud showing that I have come to expect of you all. Well done!
Add yourself to our CogKNITive Listeners Map!
Ask your questions for our 100th episode here.

CogKNITive Fiber Retreat OFFICIAL DATE: Saturday October 2, 2010! Go check out the main CFR 2010 thread on Ravelry for details. We are on the waitlist, which is still mercifully short.

My warmest thanks to Susan of KnitAJourney Podcast for the delightful chat and interview, which you can find here. It was a blast for me, Susan--thanks for making me sound so coherent!

What's On My Hook/Needles/Spindle: The list:

The Daybreak Shawl--At last! I'm working it again! An easy enough pattern to let a beginner get some great shawl satisfaction.
Ishbel Shawl --Okay, I lied. I haven't returned to it yet.
The Argante Shawl--Not this week.

Dizzy Blondes:
Navajo plying everything within reach. Have a peep at the photo above to see what I mean. MAN! Navajo plying has changed my spinning life!
Zarzuela's Fibers
Lisa Souza Knits
Freckle Face Fibers

Strategy: A bit more on the Acceptance phase of DABDA, and what you do when someone died and you did not give them the send-off you wish you could have.

Something I Really Like:  The Yowza Podcast. Give Lex a listen! But hang in there until she gets the sound more under control by Episode 3 or 4. Yarn on Wheels indeed!

Blather: Noser runs a bit wild, while I discover that one of the senior officers on my yard is human, despite years of experience that might have made a lesser man completely cynical.

Tuesday, July 20, 2010

Episode 93 is Live!

son mommy shawl

Go, Team CogSPINtive!!! The Tour de Fleece is well underway!
My latest effort: I plied up the turquoise from Feckle Face Fibers on Etsy! See below...

Add yourself to our CogKNITive Listeners Map!
Ask your questions for our 100th episode here.

CogKNITive Fiber Retreat OFFICIAL DATE: Saturday October 2, 2010! Go check out the main CFR 2010 thread on Ravelry for details. WE HAVE 4 SPACES LEFT!!!

My warmest thanks to Susan of KnitAJourney Podcast for the delightful chat and interview, which you can find here. It was a blast for me, Susan--thanks for making me sound so coherent!

What's On My Hook/Needles/Spindle: The list:

The Daybreak Shawl--At last! I'm working it again! And it is one great pattern, let me tell you.
Ishbel Shawl --I'm close to monogamous on this now. well, I plan to be...soon...
Toddler Socks--Done!!! Finished!!! Finito!!
The Argante Shawl--Not this week.
The Mommy Shawl --Done! mailed as I type this!!!

mms.jpg

The Morrison Mommy Shawl--Finished, as you can see above, and mailed off to her.

Dizzy Blondes:
plied aqua sock wt
My latest effort: I plied up the turquoise from FreckleFaceFibers, one of our excellent vendors at the CFR 2010!

Strategy: Remember people's names and use them properly. This means no nicknames or any other name than the one they want you to use.

Something I Really Like:  Philly Cheese Steaks. I mean PHILLY. CHEESE. STEAKS.

Blather: Mr. Sleazy comes to a professional seminar, but Dr. Gemma refreshes her hypnotherapy skills and has an excellent time in Phoenix, AZ. Highest kudos to The Fiber Factory in Mesa, Az.

Tuesday, July 6, 2010

Episode 92 is Live!

Go, Team CogSPINtive!

Go, Team CogSPINtive!!! The Tour de Fleece is well underway!

Add yourself to our CogKNITive Listeners Map!
Ask your questions for our 100th episode here.

CogKNITive Fiber Retreat OFFICIAL DATE: Saturday October 2, 2010! Go check out the main CFR 2010 thread on Ravelry for details..

What's On My Hook/Needles/Spindle: The list:

I finished something! The Country Cotton Shawl in the colorway Scarlet Bugler from Epicurus on Etsy:

bugler.jpg

The Daybreak Shawl--still being ignored.
Ishbel Shawl --I'm close to monogamous on this now. well, I plan to be...soon...
Toddler Socks--Creeping down the foot of the 2nd sock.
The Argante Shawl--Not this week.
The Mommy Shawl --Made the fringe and working on Skein #3 of 3.
The Morrison Mommy Shawl--a rush job to get odff to my excellent doc, Dr. Susan Morrison, who is also coming due really soon! Go, Doc! Must. Make, More. Fringe!

Dizzy Blonde: I'm spinning some fantastic superfine merino from FreckleFaceFibers, one of our excellent vendors at the CFR 2010. Look at that photo above for the colors!

Strategy: Live in your Now, with occasional trips to your past or future for relief.

Something I Really Like:  Ipod Touch Apps I love (all free):
Zombie Farm
TapFish
TapFish Exotic
Contacts (comes with)
Notes (comes with)
Sudoku (free--Mighty Mighty Good Games)
StitchCounter
KnitCounter
The Game of Life
Twitter
Facebook
B&N Ereader
Kindle Ebook Reader (for the Ipod)
Lion Yarn App
Yelp
EMSG

Blather: We've had one team member promoted to supervisor, so the Ad/Seg team is going to be shaken up. An inmate demonstartes why you need to try to live your life in your present. Some CFR 2010 updates. Dr Gemma tries to get back in school. And the trip to Phoenix next week is rapidly approaching!

Tuesday, June 22, 2010

Episode 91 is Live!

198a.jpg

I finished the 198 Yards of Heaven Shawlette. I LOVE this pattern! Blame Dawn of the podcast Knit Naturally!

Add yourself to our CogKNITive Listeners Map!
Ask your questions for our 100th episode here.

CogKNITive Fiber Retreat OFFICIAL DATE: Saturday October 2, 2010! Go check out the new Out-Takes Episode for more details.

What's On My Hook/Needles/Spindle: The list:
The Daybreak Shawl--still being ignored.
Ishbel Shawl --I'm close to monogamous on this now.
198 Yards of Heaven Shawlette Finished! I love it! And I adore the lace pattern.
Toddler Socks--Creeping down the foot of the 2nd sock.
The Argante Shawl--Not this week.
The Mommy Shawl --Made the fringe and working on Skein #3 of 3.

Dizzy Blonde: Not really spinning, as I save it up for the Tour de Fleece and Team CogSPINtive.

Strategy: Stop trying to change people.

Something I Really Like: My new Ipod Touch! And the free application Zombie Farm.

Blather: Some attention around the goings-on within my team, I've got a sore rib, and the Fiber Retreat she is a-coming!

Out-Takes Episode: CogKNITive Fiber Retreat 2010--#1

2010 FIber Retreat

I've posted an out-takes episode concerning the upcoming CogKNITive Fiber Retreat 2010. Enjoy!

To find the thread with details, go to the Ravelry group for CogKNITive and look up the locked thread called "CogKNITive Fiber Retreat 2010".

Saturday, June 12, 2010

2010 CogKNITive Fiber Retreat is coming!!

Details are slowly being added here, and I will be doing out-takes episodes of the podcast to give details as well. Like last year, sign-ups will be on the main thread on Ravelry, and payment will be made by using the "DONATE" button on this page.

Stay tuned to hear how to join us on October 2nd.

Tuesday, June 8, 2010

Episode 90 is Live!

198.jpg

I weakened and started the 198 Yards of Heaven Shawlette. Blame Dawn of the podcast Knit Naturally!

Add yourself to our CogKNITive Listeners Map!
Ask your questions for our 100th episode here.

CogKNITive Fiber Retreat OFFICIAL DATE: Saturday October 2, 2010! Yes, I did have to change it.

What's On My Hook/Needles/Spindle: The list:
The Daybreak Shawl--still being ignored.
Ishbel Shawl --I'm close to monogamous on this now. And yet I also weakened and started the 198 Yards of Heaven Shawlette, in a show of support for the Summer of Shawlettes hosted by Dawn over at the Knit Naturally podcast.
Toddler Socks--I've turned the heel! Hooray!
The Argante Shawl--Not this week.
The Mommy Shawl --Finished Skein #2 of 3.

Dizzy Blonde:  Spinning merrily on luscious superwash in Orchid semisolid from Freckle Face Fibers.

Strategy: Dealing with the Aging/Ill Parent:  A few loose ends and DABDA when someone dies suddenly.

Something I Really Like:  Low carb chocolate at Trader Joes--Thank you, Heaven! And go visit the thread on Ravelry where we chat about organic CSA's and exchange recipes for their contents.

Blather: Becoming an undergrad again. Psychologists prescribing in the prisons...maybe someday.

Monday, May 31, 2010

Episode 89 is Live!

today's spin

The Tour de Fleece is coming! Team CogSPINtive wants you!

Add yourself to our CogKNITive Listeners Map!
Ask your questions for our 100th episode here.

What's On My Hook/Needles/Spindle: The list:
The Daybreak Shawl--still being ignored.
Ishbel Shawl --actually looks like an Ishbel! And I'm cooking along on Chart B the second.
Toddler Socks--still on the cuff of #2. (snoooore!)
The Argante Shawl--Not this week.
The Mommy Shawl --on Skein #2 of 3. I work on this as I edit the podcast. And I've ordered more sock yarn from Sunshine Yarns.

Dizzy Blonde:  I am almost finished a rather felted braid of turquoise merino, to be plied against its cousin . Eyeing luscious superwash in Black Cherry semisolid from Freckle Face Fibers.

Strategy: Dealing with the Aging/Ill Parent: DABDA--Depression and Acceptance.

Something I Really Like:  Yeah, well, I kinda left this one out this week...(facepalm)

Blather: A week of contrasts among my patients, and some news about general podcasting issues.

Monday, May 24, 2010

Episode 88 is Live!

Yeah, okay, I bought more fiber!

New fibers from Freck Face Fibers and BeeMiceElf!

Add yourself to our CogKNITive Listeners Map!
Ask your questions for our 100th episode here.

What's On My Hook/Needles/Spindle: The list:
The Daybreak Shawl--still being ignored.
Ishbel Shawl in Misti Alpaca Baby Alpaca handpainted laceweight--It's turning into a kind of "Freeform Ishbel", due to my lousy eyesight...
Toddler Socks--still on the cuff of #2. (snoooore!)
The Argante Shawl--cooking right along through the increase section, colorway 114.
The Mommy Shawl --on Skein #2 of 3.

Dizzy Blonde:  YES!!! I am back to working on a rather felted braid of turquoise merino, to be plied against its cousin as soon as I finish this! A fantastic spin meet was had at LibertyKnits place this past weekend!

Strategy: Dealing with the Aging/Ill Parent: DABDA--Actually, a bit of a break from DABDA to cover some other pertinent issues and some excellent comments and questions from listeners..

Something I Really Like: My CSA for frsh fruits and veggies. Here's a place where you might be able to find one for yourself--or just Google "CSA."

Blather: A bit about the new supervisor situation and the general staff shake-up on the horizon. A little about my barfy week. Strangely, this all adds up to the fact that things are pretty good right now!

Monday, May 17, 2010

Episode 87 is Live!

Quechua sips from a neighbor's water toy

Quechua sips from a neighbor's water toy. Can't keep a good llama down on the farm!

Add yourself to our CogKNITive Listeners Map!
Ask your questions for our 100th episode here.

What's On My Hook/Needles/Spindle: The list:
The Daybreak Shawl--still being ignored.
Ishbel Shawl in Misti Alpaca Baby Alpaca handpainted laceweight--I added 2 more rows--we are moving again!
Toddler Socks--still on the cuff of #2.
The Argante Shawl--cooking right along through the increase section, colorway 114.
The Mommy Shawl --on Skein #2 of 3.

Dizzy Blonde:  None. Nada, Zilch.

Strategy: Dealing with the Aging/Ill Parent: DABDA--Bargaining--it may look a little different than you expect.

Something I Really Like: The Belly Fat Cure

Blather: Our 100th episode is coming up quickly. In the tradition of The History of Rome podcast, I am going to make Episode 100 a purely question-and-answer episode. So you can ask me any questions here, and I'll answer what I can. You can also ask any questions here, if you are not on Ravelry, and I'll add them to the queue.

Yet another inmate drives a psychiatrist to distraction this week, playing "How many of the doc's buttons can I possibly push?" I make the AW tense, while the Custody Counselor reverts to her middle school behaviors.

Tuesday, May 11, 2010

Episode 86 is Live!

4th try at Argante

The fourth incarnation of the terrifically easy (for the rest of you) Argante Shawl.

Add yourself to our CogKNITive Listeners Map!
Ask your questions for our 100th episode here.

What's On My Hook/Needles/Spindle: The list:
The Daybreak Shawl--still being ignored.
Ishbel Shawl in Misti Alpaca Baby Alpaca handpainted laceweight--I got stitch markers from one of those online stores, so I will be starting her up again.
Toddler Socks--on the cuff of #2.
The Argante Shawl--Incarnation #4 seems to be working. In Ella Rae's Merino lace, colorway 114.
The Mommy Shawl --on Skein #2 of 3.

Dizzy Blonde:  None. Nada, Zilch.

Strategy: Dealing with the Aging/Ill Parent: DABDA--Anger--yours and theirs

Something I Really Like: 60 Quick Knits--a new book out that uses 2 skeins of cascade 220 per project. I love it!

Blather: Our 100th episode is coming up quickly. In the tradition of The History of Rome podcast, I am going to make Episode 100 a purely question-and-answer episode. So you can ask me any questions here, and I'll answer what I can. You can also ask any questions here, if you are not on Ravelry, and I'll add them to the queue.

I am looking at restarting my private practice, and we might have a date change for the CogKNITive 2010 Fiber Retreat. Also, a bratty inmate makes us nutty at the psych committee.

Sunday, May 9, 2010

Happy Mother's Day!

I still find it amazing that moms get their own special day. What a wonderful idea!

Sunday, May 2, 2010

Episode 85 is Live!

Michelle's Mommy Shawl, on Flickr
Here is yet another Mommy Shawl, this time for new Mommy Michelle! I think every mommy needs one of these.
For some odd reason, this recording switches into mono in a few places. Sorry!

Add yourself to our CogKNITive Listeners Map!
Ask your questions for our 100th episode here.

What's On My Hook/Needles/Spindle: Still ignoring my Daybreak Shawl. Dead stop on the Ishbel Shawl in Misti Alpaca Baby Alpaca handpainted laceweight, as I wait for my buddy Tally to make me some lace stitch markers. No guilt, Tally! (love ya!) REALLY nearly done the first of the Toddler Socks. I am enthusiastically enjoying Argante! In Ella Rae's Merino lace, colorway 114. But I'll never get it done in 2 nights, as one Raveller reports she can. Amazing! Oh, yeah, I have frogged it 4 times. Some of us learn slowly... Right now I am just letting myself work on the Mommy Shawl (pictured above). Get the recipe here. Make it, love it, beat it up, and still love it. It's wonderful for breastfeeding your baby in a cool hospital room, and it's a fine cover-up for nursing when you and Junior are on the road together.

Dizzy Blonde:  (Le Sigh).  In the words of Pepe Le Peu.

Strategy: Dealing with the Aging/Ill Parent: DABDA--Denial. (wince.)
Something I Really Like: Nyquil and its clones. Not for the kiddies to take, though!

Blather: Our 100th episode is coming up quickly. In the tradition of The History of Rome podcast, I am going to make Episode 100 a purely question-and-answer episode. So you can ask me any questions here, and I'll answer what I can. You can also ask any questions here, if you are not on Ravelry, and I'll add them to the queue.

Sick on the job. Yes, I got home okay after this recording! Meditating on my hypochondria. Newbies to prison and how they react. Please do not pepperspray my food, Officer!

Thursday, April 29, 2010

Epsiode 84

argant.jpg

Starting Argante! In Ella Rae's Merino lace, colorway 114.

Add yourself to our CogKNITive Listeners Map!
Ask your questions for our 100th episode here.

What's On My Hook/Needles/Spindle: Still ignoring my Daybreak Shawl. Slowing down on the Ishbel Shawl in Misti Alpaca Baby Alpaca handpainted laceweight. Nearly done the first of the Toddler Socks and starting the Argante Shawl.

Dizzy Blonde:  (Sigh).

Strategy: Dealing with the Aging/Ill Parent: DABDA--a little more on the process of coping with shocking news

Something I Really Like: Antibiotics. Doctors Fleming and Lister.

Blather: No transfer yet. Wearing a mask and watching my patients react. Some potential new directions for my career.

And PLEASE go check out Bijouxmaster's charity KAL/CAL here. You can make a chemo cap for a kid, right?

Monday, April 19, 2010

Episode 83 is Live!

I love knitting toddler sox!

I am using these socks to knit on the road, while my shawls are groing at home.

Add yourself to our CogKNITive Listeners Map!

What's On My Hook/Needles/Spindle: Someday I WILL return to my long-neglected Daybreak Shawl. Right now, I am obsessive about the Ishbel Shawl in Misti Alpaca Baby Alpaca handpainted laceweight. And my Toddler Socks are my carry-along project, as I mediatte upon the Kilim Throw.

Dizzy Blonde:  (Sigh). Need I tell you? Nope.

Strategy: Dealing with the Aging/Ill Parent: Find your support group. Now. Right now. And stick with it!

Something I Really Like: LL Beans' catalogue. And cool dusters.

Blather: No transfer yet. The politics of this job take some time to understand.

And PLEASE go check out Bijouxmaster's charity KAL/CAL here. You can make a chemo cap for a kid, right?

Sunday, April 18, 2010

Simple math for Westknit's Daybreak Shawl

While I'm disclosing my math, here is some easy math for the first section of the Daybreak Shawl:

Some simple math for this project: I placed a stitch marker after the 2nd st and before the last 2 stitches of the row to help me remember the increases that always go there. This saves me from getting the wrong stitch count as I progress.


I also placed a row counter as one of the markers next to the central stitch of the row, to help me keep track of how many stitches I have without counting. Here’s how that works:

The repeat is 4 rows long, so, for the small size, you will be doing 9 repeats of these 4 rows to get 133 stitches total to begin Section 2. Also, once you finish the set-up rows for section 1, Row one of the repeat says “k halfway to m, M1R…”

In the first repeat, row 1, when you do the “k halfway to m, M1R…” , you will knit 5 stitches before you make that M1R, then another 5 st to the center marker. In Repeat #2, there will be 8 stitches before that M!R. For every repeat, add 3 stitches to the amount when you are knitting halfway then making one Right.

So: Repeat #:     # of st that are halfway to “m”:

repeat 1= 5 stitches
repeat 2= 8 stitches
repeat 3= 11 stitches
repeat 4= 14 stitches
repeat 5= 17 stitches
repeat 6= 20 stitches
repeat 7= 23 stitches
repeat 8= 26 stitches
repeat 9= 29 stitches

When you’ve finished the 4th row of Repeat 9, you’ll have 133 st on the row. I use the row counter to count the repeat I’m on. When I’m done 9 repeats, I can start Section 2. No counting all those stitches!

Keeping Count on the Ishbel Shawl



Oh yes, we all love the Ishbel Shawl. It uses the basic framework of triangular shawls that grow out from the center neck, and it has the basic logic of stockinette/stocking stitch body with a froth of lace worked on the last rows to make a fluffy edge to the shawl.

The Eliina Shawl, another of my favorites, is pretty much based on the same logics, although it is arranged to "grow out" from its starting section at a different rate. Ditto for the Daybreak Shawl, with regard to the basic triangular shawl foundation, but West uses no central YOs and adds stripes instead of lace to make his shawl so effective for wearers of either sex.

When knitting up one of these triangles, I always find myself faced by the same problem: how to ensure that I arrive at the start of the lace edging with the correct number of stitches and with a centerline that is not wonky or crooked. Since these shawls use YOs on either side of the center stitch to create growth, placing a YO in the wrong place makes a pretty visible mistake, and eventually the entire shawl can end up with a lovely straight set of YOs in the central area, but uneven areas of stockinette/stocking stitch body on either side.

Before we start, it is imperative that you know EXACTLY how to do YO's between K stitches, between a K and a P, and between a P and a K. These are all EXTREMELY easy, so don't let this stop you. Just go here, and see how easily you can learn these. Don't be stubborn; I had to do it too.

For Ishbel, here's how I solved the main problem: easy math!

When you start, you knit Teague's formula for the central triangle that will dictate the shape as the shawl grows. This ends with a knit row, so she then launches the main pattern for the stockinette/stocking stitch body with a purl row, called "row 1". At the end of this Row 1, you have 11 stitches.

Ishbel then grows based on this formula:

Row 2: K3, YO, K to one st before center stitch, YO, K1 (the center stitch), YO, K to end minus 3 stitches, YO, K3. (Adds 4 stitches to next row)
Row 3: Repeat Row 1, which is basically K3, YO, P to end minus 3 stitches, YO, K3. (Adds 2 stitches to next row).


Teague suggests placing a safety pin before the central stitch, but that left me with a YO in front of the pin, and that left me with snarled laceweight yarn and wonky stitches and centerline. Looking at the larger picture, that also does not guarantee a proper stitch count when you finish the body of the shawl, so that you can safely begin the lace edging. And there are no lists of how many stitches you should have in each row, to guide those of us who are control freaks and want to fix miscounts before they turn into misaligned centerlines of YOs.

In other words, Teague is a more skilled and confident knitter of this type of shawl than I am--no shock there. To help myself, I decided that I would keep count of the stitches that get knitted between that first YO and the central stitch and 2 YOs of Row 2. The question now becomes: how do I know how many stitches I need to knit at the "K to one st before center stitch" part of row 2?

As you can see, every time you repeat these 2 rows, you've added 6 stitches to the total number on your needles. So every time you return to Row 2, your center stitch will be 3 stitches (6 divided by 2) more from the start of the row. When you arrive at the center stitch, as the pattern says, YO, k center stitch, YO, then you should be knitting the same number of stitches to edge minus 3 (where you will do the last YO) as you knitted between the first YO on this row and the center stitch.

Every time you finish Row 2, you will have the following number of stitches: 3+YO+stitches knitted to center+YO+center knitted stitch+YO+stitches knitted to center+YO+3, which means:
2(stitches knitted to center)+4(YO)+1 knitted central stitch+ 6knitted edge stitches, which means:
2(stitches knitted to center)+11.

To reduce my typing, I am going to say that (stitches knitted to center) is called "H". becauswe I like the letter "H" right now. So Total stitches in a Row 2 after completion of the row=2(H)+11

So Ishbel looks like this, with the numbers filled in:

Row #       H                 Total stitches in row                      
 2              2                      15
 4              5                      21
 6              8                      27
 8             11                     33
10            14                     39
12            17                     45
14            20                     51
16            23                    57
18              26                    63
20              29                    69
22              32                    75
24              35                    81
26              38                    87
28              41                    93
30              44                    99
32              47                    105
34              50                    111
36              53                     117
38              56                     123
40              59                     129
42              62                     135
44              65                     141
46              68                     147
48              71                     153
50              74                     159
52              77                     165
54              80                     171
If you are making the smaller shawl, stop here and repeat Row 1 (173 stitches), then go on to lace chart A.
56              83                     177
58              86                     183
60              89                     189
62              92                     195
64              95                     201
66              98                     207
68              101                   213
70              104                   219
If you are making the larger shawl, stop here and repeat Row 1 (221 stitches), then go on to lace chart A.

Now that wasn't really hard, was it? 

Tuesday, April 13, 2010

Episode 82 is Live!

sox!


And another FO...here are the finished socks in the Premuim Bamboo Wool..

Add yourself to our CogKNITive Listeners Map!

What's On My Hook/Needles/Spindle: YES! I am FINISHED the 2nd of my bamboo-blend socks . On to the BTS#3 and my languishing Daybreak Shawl. Oh, um...did I mention that I am getting sucked in by the lace craze? (sigh) Here's my start on the Ishbel Shawl in Misti Alpaca Baby Alpaca handpainted laceweight. And then there's this top-down sweater I want to knit...

Dizzy Blonde: I miss Aeventid dreadfully....

Strategy: Coping with the Aging/Ill Parent when You are an Adult--Part One: Looking back and a plea for your patience as I try to help.

Something I Really Like: Blog2Print and SharedBook

Blather: If you build it, they will come...or they will knit for me? Escape from the Ad/Seg? And PLEASE go check out Bijouxmaster's charity KAL/CAL here. You can make a chemo cap for a kid, right?

Out-takes Episode: Stitches 2010 Sunday

k1b scarf.jpg

It's the winding-down of Stitches West 2010--Sunday on the Market floor.

Places and People you will hear and hear about:

Beth Whiteside, a frequent teacher of both Market classes and longer classes at Stitches. She taught me the Knit 1 Below Scarf class in the Market classes.

Casa De Fruta

Blue Moon Fiber Arts

Urban Fauna Studio and also at http://www.maryjanesattic.net/

Thanks, Erin Garcia! The Stitches Map is EXCELLENT!!

The Scarf Clasp

Gregory from The Knitmore Girls gets a special warm hug and salute!

Carolina Homespun for the Knitter's Yarn Bracelet described hereon.

Mission Falls Yarn Company

Monday, April 5, 2010

Episode 81 is live!

CFR 2009 souvenir shawlette

Ah, a new FO at last! Here is the finished crocheted shawlette made from Freckle Face Fibers' Kimono Sock yarn in the Tehachapi in Autumn colorway developed for the 2009 CogKNITive Fiber Retreat.

Add yourself to our CogKNITive Listeners Map!

What's On My Hook/Needles/Spindle: YES! I am ALMOST finished the 2nd of my bamboo-blend socks . On to the BTS#3 and my languishing Daybreak Shawl. Also, go check out Wabi Sabi yarns.

Dizzy Blonde: Aeventid is still packed up as I redo her home in my studio!

Strategy: Affording yarn-relayed hobbies in a recession, Part One: Dealing with podcasters talking about their new yarns. and don't miss The Unique Sheep!

Something I Really Like: The Flip camcorder

Blather: The Ad/Seg is full and our caseloads are rising. Bring on the Spring!

Monday, March 29, 2010

Episode 80 is Live!

Spring in the Angeles Crest

Here is my lovely Artemis, wishing spring would come to stay! And seeing if she can spot Nat's doggies from here...

Our own Knittinwolf/Dawn of Wolfe Farms is running a contest to make lapghans for elderly people living at the same home as her grandmother. Details here.

Add yourself to our CogKNITive Listeners Map!

What's On My Hook/Needles/Spindle: I'm done Phase One of redecorating my studio! I'm still chugging along on the 2nd of my bamboo-blend socks .

Dizzy Blonde: Aeventid is still packed up as I redo her home in my studio!

Strategy: Don't compare yourself to your coworkers. Just do your job as you agreed to do it, and let them go their own way.

Something I Really Like: A few new (to me, at least) podcasts for your listening pleasure:

My favoritethis week : Knit Misadventures

Other treats:

The High Fiber Diet (also a well-loved favorite of mine)

BarknKnit Podcast--get your inner puppy on!

Sassypants Knitter

The Savvy Girls Podcast

KnitAJourney Podcast

Blather: Gemma gets girlie after the spa soothes her mind and the Flexi-8 calms my hair. And then...the make-up from The Body Shop!

A question: Do you want an Iphones app for this podcast?

Out-takes Episode: Stitches 2010 Saturday

Really, this is the last of it...!

Here it comes--another day of Stitches West 2010! Enjoy my adventures and misadventures as I roam the Market floor with a recorder and rumbling internals.

Places and People you will hear and hear about:

Lion Yarn and Yarncraft, their excellent podcast.

Abstract Fibers

Flexi8 hairclips and shawl clips

Chery Oberle on Amazon and her website, fabulous yarns and all!

Adela's Yarns--3344 Village Drive
Castro Valley, CA 94546-5614
(510) 581-5326

ImaginKnit

Tuesday, March 23, 2010

Episode 79 is Live!

lapghan

Our own Knittinwolf/Dawn of Wolfe Farms is running a contest to make lapghans for elderly people living at the same home as her grandmother. Details here.


Add yourself to our CogKNITive Listeners Map!

What's On My Hook/Needles/Spindle:Okay, so this is not exactly knitting or crocheting--but here is the redecoration project mentioned. I've turned the heel on the 2nd of my bamboo-blend socks . Craving lace. DESPERATELY!

Dizzy Blonde: Aeventid is still packed up as I redo her home in my studio!


Strategy: Only ever say positive things about your workmates to your workmates. Don't gossip on the job!

Something I Really Like: A brief tribute to The Electric Sheep on its first pod-iversary.

Blather: Back on the job! The good people missed me; the same crazy people are still crazy. But what a difference two weeks have made in how I feel! A peaceful Sunday in the Infirmary catches me up before the full working onslaught begins.

SQUUEEE!!! Phase One is Finished!

Look to the left...

Here it is--the first phase of my massive redecoration project of my Fiber/Stationary Recording Studio. It is fantastic--but I am still sneezing from all the dust just raised as I gave a final vacuuming to the area around the completed phase.

...now look to the right!

Most of all, it is a light, bright, pretty, and well-organized work space, created after years of just trying to randomly force everything into a small space.

Now on to Phase Two and another wall + ceiling area.

Monday, March 22, 2010

Episode 78 is Live!

A Fresh Look for the Stationary Studio!

A Fresh Look for the Stationary Recording Studio!

Add yourself to our CogKNITive Listeners Map!

What's On My Hook/Needles/Spindle:One sock finished on my bamboo-blend socks . No work on my Toddler Socks.

Dizzy Blonde: Aeventid is packed up as I redo her home in my studio.


Strategy: Count your blessings. Really.

Something I Really Like: Having a Press Pass at Stitches. Like wow.

Blather: Yes, more Stitches and vacation events

Tuesday, March 16, 2010

Soooo Close to finished on Phase One of the Great Studio Renovation!

Okay Phase One is SOOOOO close to finished!

I removed the painter's edge tape today, then got to work with my trusty drill and the shelving standards. I discovered that the wall studs are 16" apart, so I need a third set of standard + brackets to hang to use 36" long shelves. After all, these are for books, and I want the supports to be able to bear a LOT of weight.

So here are the first 2 sets of standards and brackets hung up, awaiting the third set and the shelves. And I did hang the wild flowers of the CA Desert poster that I adore. It goes beautifully with the soft peaches of the room!

shelf.jpg

My room is starting to look wonderful--at least along one wall.

Monday, March 15, 2010

A Great Day for CogKNITive

From our listener, RJHuggz:

Look what Amy sent me! They live in South Africa.


That was a long trip!


Yup. Made me cry. That's from Amy Berman, founder of Mother Bear Project. Our own RJHuggz made the bear.

You People done good!

"So shines a good deed in a naughty world."--Will Shakespeare

Sunday, March 14, 2010

Out-takes Episode: Stitches 2010 Friday

fiber3.jpg

More Stitches acquisitions: 2x Judy's Originals in a cantalope/blues that I can't remember the name of but it's in Corriedale.

All the rest from Royale Hare Fibers . The berries and the blue are in a pure superfine merino. The silky ones are in tencel-merino.

Judy's Novelty Wool, 1035 N. Main, Centerville, UT 84014 (801)298-1356

Here is the second day of Stitches West 2010--Friday.

Universal Yarns--Makers of Wisdom Yarns

Redfish Dyeworks

Pigeonroof Studios

Wabi Sabi Yarns on Etsy and her home page. Thanks to LimeJuicy and Casdena and Loremor for being such good sports!

Conference of Northen CA Handweavers--April 9-11, 2010 at Santa Clara Convention Center

Sweet Grass Wools

Blue Moon Fibre Arts

Gives Good Knit podcast

Fiona Ellis on Amazon.com and online

Webs Yarns online

Purlescence Yarns in Sunnyvale, CA

Wednesday, March 10, 2010

Knittinwolf's lapghan KAL/CAL

I apologize for coming to this party rather late, but better late than never!

Our own Knittinwolf/Dawn of Wolfe Farms is running a contest to make lapghans for elderly people living at the same home as her grandmother. Details here.

Contest ends April 1st! I have crocheted one in chunky yarn from a big box store on an N hook. In 2 hours, I had 2 foot square of afghan--you can really whip one of these out quickly! I completed mine in about 6 hours. I recommend this book for easy, fast designs.

In the meantime, go look at Dawn's blog to see lots of pretty examples of afghans already made.

Here is my finished lapghan:

lapghan3.jpg

It's just a big granny square, but I hope it's enough to make somebody feel loved and cosy.

Friday, March 5, 2010

Out-takes--Stitches 2010 Thursday

fiber2.jpg

From top left:
2 from Abstract Fibers, one in pure merino, one in yak/merino; 2x Lisa Souza pure merino in Elektra, 1 BFL Lisa Souza in Earth Birth, 2x Lisa Souza pure merino in lovely Squash Blossom (the yellows), 1 Lisa Souza BFL in Umbria. and a 50/50 merino-silk from our pals at Redfish Dyeworks.

Here are the events of Thursday night at Stitches West 2010, as I become the roady for the Knitmores and discover the joys of a press pass.

Abstract Fiber
Lisa Souza Knitware and Dyeworks
CORRECTION: Mr. Souza's first name is "Rod", not "Roger" as I mistakenly call him in the episode! Sorry!
Specialty Sandwiches & Bakery, San Jose They deliver to Stitches!
Galina Khmeleva on Amazon.com
Janel Laidman on Amazon.com
Sheila Ernst's incredible glass works!
Myra Wood on Amazon.com
Carolina Home Spun
Redfish Dyeworks
Wabi Sabi Yarns
Royale Hare Fibers
Judy's Novelty Wool, 1035 N. Main, Centerville, UT 84014 (801)298-1356

Thursday, February 25, 2010

Episode 77 is Live!

crew.jpg
Look! This gang is going to Stitches! And they're singing "Kumbaya" in the back of the Mobile Recording Studio...


Add yourself to our CogKNITive Listeners Map!

What's On My Hook/Needles/Spindle: Eliina is totally done and blocked! I am still creeping along on my bamboo-blend socks and my latest Toddler Socks.

Mother Bear And Stitches West Info:
Post a picture of your bear right here as a comment or here at Ravelry.

The CogKNITIve Meet-up at STITCHES WEST will be at 3 PM on Saturday at Booth 111--the Mother Bear Project booth.
Bring your bear to turn in OR
bring old yarn or needles or hooks to donate OR
bring $5. for the pattern OR
bring $10 to sponsor someone else's bear and have your name put on it.

If nothing else, bring nothing, pay nothing, get love from Dr Gemma for even showing up, and take a brochure to give to your local knitting group to inspire them to make bears.

Just COME! Bring YOURSELF and get a warm hug!

Dizzy Blonde: I'm done spinning the 8 ounces of the random greens from Dyeing for Colour on Etsy.

Strategy: Remember that your boss wants one thing: to get the job done. Talk to her/him that way.

Something I Really Like: My Jabra cell phone speaker clipped to my visor in the Mobile Recording Studio.

Blather: Zooming up the I-5 towards Stitches West and people who refuse to walk.

Tuesday, February 23, 2010

Episode 77 Coming soon from the road!

Stitches road crew
We are all off to Stitches West tomorrow!

Thanks to ShirleeClaire, HeyMindy, and Pudmuddles!

I am happily packing for Stitches West. I now have the detailed map, booth by booth, highlighted in my Excel program, so I don't miss the booths I REALLY want.

You can get yours at the thread stickied to the top of the Stitches West group on Rav.

I have my printed out class receipt for my market classes Friday & Sunday mornings. I have my bears and other people's for Mother Bear (booth 111).

I have a spare discount coupon, so if you find me and ask, you can have it. I have my market ticket from online for Saturday.

I have my wheel packed and my bobbins empty--cause I might need to spin up some new pretty I get there or learn something from my excellent hostesses.

I have my coupons, gift cards, etc. in my main bag--shop till I drop!

I have my class supplies all packed up, the yarn wound into center-pull balls and the right needles in the bag.

Clothes? I need clothes? Dang--off to do some laundry...oh yeah, the DH did most of the laundry while I was at work Sunday, to help me along!

I expect to record on the drive up, so hopefully I will edit and post that on Wednesday or early Thursday.

See y'all soon!

Tuesday, February 16, 2010

Episode 76 is Live!

The Eliina is finished, except for blocking!

Look! Ellina only needs blocking!

Add yourself to our CogKNITive Listeners Map!



What's On My Hook/Needles/Spindle: Eliina is actually done, sans blocking. I am still creeping along on my bamboo-blend socks and my latest Toddler Socks.

Mother Bear And Stitches West Info:
Post a picture of your bear right here as a comment or here at Ravelry.

The FRIDAY CogKNITive lunch meet-up will be at NOON at the tables near the Concessions area behind the 900's section on the Market floor. Come hang out with us!

The CogKNITIve Meet-up at STITCHES WEST will be at 3 PM on Saturday at Booth 111--the Mother Bear Project booth.
Bring your bear to turn in OR
bring old yarn or needles or hooks to donate OR
bring $5. for the pattern OR
bring $10 to sponsor someone else's bear and have your name put on it.

If nothing else, bring nothing, pay nothing, get love from Dr Gemma for even showing up, and take a brochure to give to your local knitting group to inspire them to make bears.

Just COME! Bring YOURSELF and get a warm hug!

Dizzy Blonde: I'm done the burgundy 2-ply--about 260 yards of sport weight, done 1 bobbin of the turquoise merino from Freckle Face Fibers on Etsy, and starting the random greens from Dyeing for Colour on Etsy. Praise for Start Spinning by Maggie Casey.

Strategy: Dress for the respect you want.


Something I Really Like: The County Library--a treasure soon to be in my own back yard.

Blather: Info on Stitches West, Mother Bear, and the 2010 CogKNITive Fiber Retreat. Nothing new on the job this week, and that's a good thing.

Tuesday, February 9, 2010

Episode 75 is Live!

Kumbaya!

"We're all going to Stitches West together! Hooray!"

Thanks, SHIRLEE!!! Alias ShirleeClaire on Ravelry.

Add yourself to our CogKNITive Listeners Map!

What's On My Hook/Needles/Spindle: A brief break from the Mother Bear project knitting to finish up the Eliina Shawl--almost there!

Post a picture of your bear right here as a comment or here at Ravelry.

The FRIDAY CogKNITive lunch meet-up will be at NOON at the tables near the Concessions area behind the 900's section on the Market floor. Come hang out with us!

The CogKNITIve Meet-up at STITCHES WEST will be at 3 PM on Saturday at Booth 111--the Mother Bear Project booth.
Bring your bear to turn in OR
bring old yarn or needles or hooks to donate OR
bring $5. for the pattern OR
bring $10 to sponsor someone else's bear and have your name put on it.

If nothing else, bring nothing, pay nothing, get love from Dr Gemma for even showing up, and take a brochure to give to your local knitting group to inspire them to make bears.

Just COME! Bring YOURSELF and get a warm hug!

Dizzy Blonde: We're washing burgundy 2-ply--about 260 yards of sport weight, spinning some turquoise merino from Freckle Face Fibers on Etsy, and generally enjoying ourselves.

Strategy: When other people bug you, change YOUR OWN behaviors ot get some relief.

Something I Really Like: Starry nights and the Milky Way. The REAL Milky Way, but I rather love the candy bars too...

Blather: 77 bears for Mother Bear-- **You people are WONDERFUL!**

Our team at work splinters, due to a few Drama Queens (of either sex). I settle down to stay out of it!

Monday, February 8, 2010

CraftLit is doing more Jane Austen soon!

Ok, Austen junkies, listen up!
Craftlit is starting Jane Austen's masterpiece, Persuasion,
Pers_CraftLit250x80
as soon as they finish the current book, Flatland.
Flat_CraftLit250x80
Go have a listen at Craftlit, and tell them Gemma sent you!

Thursday, February 4, 2010

Episode 74 is Live!



Another b y RJHuggz

Now you'd take this bear home and love him, wouldn't you? And, best of all, some sad little kid will do just that!

Add yourself to our CogKNITive Listeners Map!

What's On My Hook/Needles/Spindle: 3 bears done for Mother Bear project! A few words about the various ways to make a bear.

Post a picture of your bear right here as a comment or here at Ravelry.

The CogKNITIve Meet-up at STITCHES WEST will be at 3 PM on Saturday at Booth 111--the Mother Bear Project booth.
Bring your bear to turn in OR
bring old yarn or needles or hooks to donate OR
bring $5. for the pattern OR
bring $10 to sponsor someone else's bear and have your name put on it.

If nothing else, bring nothing, pay nothing, get love from Dr Gemma for even showing up, and take a brochure to give to your local knitting group to inspire them to make bears.

Just COME! Bring YOURSELF and get a warm hug!

Dizzy Blonde:

Some Stitches heads-ups:

Friday--lunch meet-up--more details to follow.

Saturday--Meet-up at Mother-Bear project Booth #111! 3 PM.

Strategy: A place for everything and everything in its place--and thanks to Julie of Forgotten Classics for this one!.


Something I Really Like: The Mac suite of in-home apps and hardware that make Itunes and its Homesharing possible.

Blather: 50 bears for Mother Bear and more since I recorded this! **You people are WONDERFUL!**

Mother Bear tells us that **you can use ANY worsted weight yarn**--washable or hadn-wash only!

Some info re: donating to Haiti through Webs, Knitters without Borders and others, and Ravelry's effort through the "Help for Haiti" tag.

In the prison: there's a new warden on the yard.

Friday, January 22, 2010

A Fine Day's Work

gooddayswork.jpg

That's a bobbin of Dyeing for Color's pencil rovings in miscellaneous greens and greys and Freckle Face Fiber's superwash merino roving in an unnamed colorway that I think of as something like "cloudy sunset in eastern Pennsylvania" or "red roan mare".

Tuesday, January 19, 2010

Episode 73 is Live!

Hermione Grizzly

HEY! It's Hermione Grizzy! (My 2nd bear for Mother Bear.)

Add yourself to our CogKNITive Listeners Map!



What's On My Hook/Needles/Spindle: I'm now done my 2nd bear for The Mother Bear Project CAL/KAL--Hermione Grizzly in the picture above.

Post a picture of your bear right here as a comment or here at Ravelry.

The CogKNITIve Meet-up at STITCHES WEST will be at 3 PM on Saturday at Booth 111--the Mother Bear Project booth.
Bring your bear to turn in OR
bring old yarn or needles or hooks to donate OR
bring $5. for the pattern OR
bring $10 to sponsor someone else's bear and have your name put on it.

If nothing else, bring nothing, pay nothing, get love from Dr Gemma for even showing up, and take a brochure to give to your local knitting group to inspire them to make bears.

Just COME! Bring YOURSELF and get a warm hug!
Slow crawl on my adult bamboo-blend socks.

Dizzy Blonde: Plying (OR: How do you spell N-E-E-D-P-R-A-C-T-I-C-E).

Strategy: Never forget: what goes around, comes around,and Kharma is a very real force in this world, whatever your particular faith calls it.



Something I Really Like: More new podcasts: The Knitting Show, and Yarns From the Plain, and an old friend: Knitting Rose Did I mention that ChrissytheGreat is a person I really like? And let's not forget KnitGifts.com, who sent me a gift of lovely cards through Gigi.



Blather: New and better hours at work, no more teaching, a new dishwasher, Creative Pursuits, and coaxing Lexicom into doing her fantastic podcast. Ah, and I get 2 weeks off around Stitches West!




CogKNITive Fiber Retreat:
probably in Tehachapi again.
Still looking for a place that might be a little larger than last year's, planning to give preference to people who came last year, probably going to charge slightly more than last year (but still tying to keep things as inexpensive as possible), and lining up classes.

Early possibilities: Navajo spindling, Tunisian crochet, entrelac (Nathan? did I mention...?), 2-at-atime-toe-up socks==how to cast on, fiber preparation, fitting your knit/crochetware. And the same excellent line-up of vendors plus Carolina Homespun.

No fixed date yet, but probably the 2nd week of October.

IDEAS WELCOME!