Currently Purring

My Teeny-Tiny Minions

2011-10-04T19:53:00.001-04:00

This past month I have started playing Dungeons & Dragons with a Meetup group in Manhattan. I've never played before, but the group has been great and very helpful teaching me the rules. There are basically two ways to play. You can be an adventurer and try to take take on the bad guys or you can be the dungeon master and lead the adventure and control the bad guys. Most of the time I am an adventurer, but the way our group works every takes a turn being a dungeon master.

I still don't have a great grasp of the rules, so when my turn to lead the group came up, I decided to play to my strengths. To set up the game board I knit all the bad guys using Anna's new book Teeny-Tiny Mochimochi. My adventurers had to face panthers, gnomes and eladrin, so I had to improvise, but I was able to get the point across.

I confess they probably were not as intimidating as teeny-tiny knits, but now the whole group knows what they are in for when they play with me. Now I need to go work out a teeny-tiny wolf.

Wintercrest Wizard

2011-09-13T20:11:00.001-04:00

I got so excited about this that I forgot to blog.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

False Starts

2011-09-12T20:25:00.000-04:00

I finished flock, and need a new project. I cast on a quick little toy for Hubby and got this far before I realized my yarn just wasn't going to work.

I started again with new yarn and got this far before I realized I was using the wrong needles.

I took it as a sign and cast on for a pair of socks instead.

This is how far I got before I realized that I messed up my ribbing and it needs to be started over again. I knit, but I did not accomplish this weekend.

Follow Friday: Geek Dad & Geek Mom

2011-09-09T19:10:00.000-04:00

Since it has been so long since I've offered up a Follow Friday and these two fit so well together, I'll give you a two for one deal.

I am not a parent, but I am a geek with a special interest in children's media. These two blogs are a perfect fit for me because they are intended for geeks who are immersed in children's media.

From Geek Dad

I discovered Geek Dad just after grad school and I've been an avid reader ever since. It is a great resource for updates and reviews of gadgets, games, comics, movies, books and Phineas and Ferb!

From Drop Box

I confess, I was leery of Geek Mom when it started. It is a spin off from Geek Dad and my initial thoughts were that separate is inherently not equal. Women were posting on Geek Dad for as long as I had been reading, so I didn't really find Geek Mom necessary. Geek Mom seems to have some extra parenting tips, education related discussion, and healthy food ideas, but overall it is just more great information. There is a little bit of cross posting with Geek Dad, but they do a great job of organizing theme topics without having overlap redundancy.

Tangle

2011-09-08T20:11:00.001-04:00

This is how I'm spending my evening:

How about you?

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Migrated

2011-09-07T20:41:00.000-04:00

My flock is finally finished. Weaving in all of the ends was a daunting task

While I tackled those, Hubby sewed them onto the branches and arranged the birds. It took both of us the better part of an afternoon, but it was a lovely result.

Here is a baby's eye view!

I love it! Hubby was having trouble letting it go. He had it hanging in our living room right up until I packed it up to ship out. Eventually they migrated south (a bit late but all in one piece) to our friends and their new baby. I hope he enjoys those adorable tummy stripes as much as I do.

Bagged

2011-09-06T19:34:00.000-04:00

After knitting dice bags for Hubby and a couple friends, I finally have a reason to make a dice bag for myself. This weekend I went to my first DnD game. Of course, I couldn't go unaccessorized! I couldn't decide what I wanted so Hubby started one for me with the self-striping yarn that was left over from Syndey's leg warmers. Because of my impatience, I had to take over and I finished it.

I love my sparkly dice!

Inspired by Hubby's stripes and Being Elmo, I knew exactly what I wanted for my polyhedrals.

Look familiar? You get 100 cool points from me if you immediately thought of this guy:

From Sesame Street

I did much better with my jogless stripe on this bag than my birds. I think that the stripes on the birds were just a bit too thin for the jogless technique that I was trying to use. It worked much better on the wider blue and red stripes here. These little bags are a great way to practice new techniques. I love them. I'll have to come up with an excuse to make some more. Now I just need to resist the urge to buy some primary colored dice that match my bag. Maybe I need one that looks like Bert. Vertical stripes would be a good thing to learn.

Lucky

2011-09-01T20:58:00.002-04:00

Despite the lack of knitting, it has been a pretty great summer. It has been full of friends, games and lazy days in the park. I've discovered this summer that I am the luckiest girl. I have two bits of fun evidence to share.

First, Hubby took me to see An American Tale at Brooklyn Bridge Park. It was one of my favorite movies as a kid. I even had an amazing Fievel doll. The movie was as wonderful as I remember (which is lucky on its own) but the really fantastic part was the credits. There was a surprise fireworks show!

Second, a couple weekends ago we went to see Being Elmo at IFC. We were in a intimate screening room and I loved the film. Again during the credits I got a big surprise. Several of the people who worked on creating the film were available for Q&A. Not only did I get to meet the director but Kevin Clash was a special guest. Here I am with Kevin and Tau

NYC loves me!

Colour

2011-08-31T20:12:00.001-04:00

I haven't been writing very much this summer. The sad thing is that I haven't been doing much knitting either. I do have a very cute and colorful video to share.

TIJI "COLOUR" HD from AKAMA on Vimeo.

Don't you just want to hug a panda now? I love him for his snoozer-head ways.

FO: Stripe Study

2011-07-25T19:43:00.000-04:00

I finished my Stripe Study a bit ago, but I haven't gotten a picture until this weekend. Something about this heat wave made it difficult to remember to grab my wool wrap. I would have finished it earlier, but I made the ridiculous decision to spend as much time binding off as I did knitting. I don't know when or why, but I decided that the sewn bind off is my favorite. I am here to assure you that a garter stitch shawl that binds off on the two long sides does not require a sewn bind off. It is a good technique, but I spent a full day sitting in the park pulling that long bind off end through each stitch...TWICE! It was a lovely day, but I am officially saving that bind off for lace (and maybe toe up socks.)

I decided to go as long as I could with each color to use up all of my yarn, and when I finished I was worried that it was a little small. The longest point reached just past my mid-back. It seemed to work just fine, but it wasn't at all what I was expecting based on the photos from the pattern. I was especially disappointed because I knit 2 extra stripes before I ran out of the darker yarn. Since I took it across the country and the park I gave it a bath right away. When I laid it out to dry it grew a lot more than I expected for just garter stitch. I am very happy with the final size.

I'm not certain how I feel about the asymmetry yet though. It looks fantastic, but I haven't had occasion to use my new wrap. The tallest point falls over my left shoulder instead of down the center of my back. I'm interested to find out how well it stays in place and protects my back from the giant window at work.

WIP: Growing Flock

2011-07-17T18:17:00.000-04:00

My flock hasn't gotten much attention lately but my time table has been pushed way up. Fortunately these birds are quick little knits. I only have two more before I start the branches and leaves. I've found the best way to get work done on these is to carry all of my supplies for the project around in one bag. It really is more than I need for any bit of knitting, but these work up so quickly that it is only a bit of knitting before I am changing colors or sewing up a new piece. I feel like I'm carrying around an ridiculous amount, but I am not getting stuck with nothing to do after 10 minutes of knitting. No hangups means progress continues. Now on to the next one, with a green tail, and maybe yellow stripes.

Music Painting

2011-07-16T12:10:00.000-04:00

Here is a beautifully executed idea with a eco-friendly message. Enjoy!

Via LikeCool

Follow Friday: Further Dispatches

2011-07-15T18:22:00.000-04:00

From Further Dispatches

Since Lost ended Jorge Garcia has been sharing tidbits and updates from Further Dispatches. He introduced me to Plants vs. Zombies, P.J. Clark's and now he's started to talk about party games. He doesn't post frequently, but I always enjoy them.

Queued: Boyfriend Sock

2011-07-14T18:35:00.000-04:00

From Slipped Stitch

Hubby is not a big fan of socks. He loves his pair of hand-knit socks, but they don't make up for his general dislike of socks. You'd think this would be great. If he doesn't want socks that means more socks for me right? Well, it turns out if you don't want to knit full sweaters and your man doesn't want socks, you have drastically reduced the types of things you can make him that he needs multiples of. He's got a hat and a scarf and says he doesn't need another. He has a couple pair of gloves that he doesn't wear. (Which is for the best because the velcro in his jacket is awful to them.) Since his outer gear is set, I keep turning back to socks as something to knit for him. These Boyfriend Socks by Alice Bell would be a great pair. The cables look like they would be just enough for keeping my attention and combating the effects of whatever 'manly' color my yarn will inevitably be, and they look great on the finished sock. If Hubby is not in love with them, I'm sure Dad or Grandpa would appreciate another pair.

Comic Book Day

2011-07-13T19:00:00.001-04:00

Today really has too much tempting stuff.

From Dark Horse

Dollhouse: Epitaphs #1
Hubby and I just finished watching Dollhouse last weekend. We enjoyed the first season so much, that I picked up the one-shot that was released before we even started season two. I read through it the same night that we finished the show, and of course it ended with the announcement of this comic coming out. Now I have to decide if I want to keep going with it. I really don't think I am going to. I liked the show, but I think that if I am going to start reading a regular comic based on a show that I enjoy I would probably have more fun with Firefly or Farscape. That is not taking into account how much I am going to love Buffy and Angel when I get around to watching them.

From DC Comics

Batgirl #23
Batgirl is one of the regulars that I've been reading for a few months. I am a big fan of Oracle and Stephanie is growing on me. I am really interested/anxious about DC's changes to Batgirl with the reboot that is coming in a couple months so I want to keep following the story until then.

From DC Comics

Flashpoint: Emperor Aquaman #2
I've been reading just a few of the Flashpoint comics and the Wonder Woman one made me consider picking up the Aquaman one. I don't think I'd get much new information from it, but rather a different viewpoint. I am a huge fan of different viewpoint stories, so I have no doubt that I'd enjoy following this story via Atlantis. This is number 2 in the series so I'd need to pick up #1 as well. I think I am going to just run into not wanting to spend that much on my comics this week. Maybe I'll pick it up later, but I think I am going to skip it for now.

From DC Comics

Birds of Prey #14
Birds of Prey is another one of my regulars. I don't know who Phantom Lady is so it will be nice to meet her, and I am looking forward to Lady Blackhawk being front and center for a bit. I haven't learned much about her since I've started these comics. Of course this is another outlet for Oracle information. I think the Birds of Prey team might be changing up a bit with the DC reboot so maybe I'll see some of that played out in these final issues.

From Marvel

Captain America #1
I've become known as Captain America Lady at my comic book store and I know that they will pull this comic for me. I haven't been following the Fear Itself story with the Captain, so i know that I've been missing some important stuff even though the guys at my store are doing their best. I think that some big changes from Fear Itself is setting up this story. If that's the case, I'll be happy to finally be getting into the flow of the story after all of my previous attempts. If this is another origin story book, then I am going to be a little disappointed. Over the past few months I went from knowing nothing to knowing the origin story and nothing current. I've got my fingers crossed for this one.

From DC Comics

Green Lantern # 67 and Green Lantern Corps #61
I want to read Green Lantern and two new comics are coming out this week. My problem is that I don't want to buy any more comics this week. Diving in here means I'll be wanting to pick these up every month. This week at least I think I can skip Green Lantern #67. It seems like a large story is wrapping up here. Since I haven't read the story I'm going to skip the wrap up. I'll keep my fingers crossed that when they start up something new it falls on a week where I don't have so much that I already want to buy. Green Lantern Corps #61 is more difficult. It sounds like they are picking up at the end of whatever is happening in #67. I just might be able to figure out #67 from #61. But really shouldn't I just get them both? That would be the way to get up to speed with the Green Lanterns.

Julia gets Yarn Bombed

2011-07-12T18:52:00.000-04:00

"All you need in knitting is a girlfriend to get you started."

WIP: Myrtle

2011-07-11T18:57:00.000-04:00

My sleeves are attached! I am getting really excited about this sweater being done. Look at it! I almost looks like a sweater. How could I not be getting excited? You wouldn't be able to tell how excited I am based on the time I've been devoting to it though. I've reached a point where I need to reference the full set of instructions (not just the lace repeats) pretty regularly so this project hasn't left the couch.

I have all of my knitting patterns on my phone and it works out great for my purse project. Myrtle has exposed one weakness with this set up though. The moment I started this project I went through the pattern and highlighted my size in the PDF.* This is awesome on my laptop, but the highlights do not carry over to my phone. That takes all of the quick out of the quick referencing my phone. Even though the project in my purse gets the most attention and knitting time, it is my 'little bit here and little bit there' project. I really need to be able to look things up easily and on the go. I don't know why I don't just print out the instructions and throw them in my bag. I printed out the pages with the lace pattern and put them in my chart keeper. I use to print out all of my patterns prior to being shown the joys of iBooks. Now, I just don't want to. I really like not having it printed, and I need a couch project anyway so it is staying electronic. My quick referencing sure is slowing down my progress though.

*P.S. Adobe, I'd love to have multiple highlighting colors in your basic functionality for both knitting and work.

Renegade Craft Fair

2011-07-10T12:12:00.000-04:00

It is only a month over due, but I still want to share with you some of the wonderful artists and crafters that I saw at Renegade. It was a rainy day , so my girlfriends and I left our cameras in our bags. Most of these pictures are from the creators' websites. So, in no particular order (because we wandered around in no particular order)

The Sweatshop of Love

From The Sweatshop Of Love

From Phil Barbato

From Drop Box

From Sweater Toys

From COATT

From danmade

Moira K. Lime Jewelry

From Moira K. Lime Jewelry

Seriously Cute Crochet

From Seriously Cute Crochet

Little Hero Capes

From Drop Box

Pansy Maiden Cruelty-Free

From Pansy Maiden

Zooguu

From Zooguu

King Popcorn

From King Popcorn

Diane Koss

From Diane Koss

Nervous System

From Drop Box

Unfortunately I do have some disappointment from one of the vendors. I bought myself a purse from Holly Hue and after just two weeks it fell apart. Other than that issue I was really impressed with what I saw I am going to have to head back next year. I'll also be coming back to this list to do some of my own shopping in the near future.

Out and about

2011-07-09T14:15:00.001-04:00

And loving my city.

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Queued: BYOB

2011-07-07T21:01:00.000-04:00

From Knitty

Who doesn't need more bags? When I lived in Arkansas reusable bags weren't too hard because I could just keep them in my trunk. Since moving to NYC they have become a bit harder to remember to bring along but also vital. I don't need to tell you all the green and eco-friendly reasons why reusable bags are great. the reason I love think they are vital is because of pain of plastic. I walk home from the grocery store, but even those of you who just walk to the parking lot know how quickly that plastic bag starts cutting into your hand. It becomes miserable really fast. Hand knit or not, reusable bags are so much nicer to carry.

Knitty, in its infinite awesomeness, has this great BYOB pattern by Moira Ravenscroft. I think this bag is cute. I can see it being great for both shopping and the beach. A couple times I've even considered making it as a gift for the loved ones in my life who don't appreciate actually wearing my knit goods.

Comic Book Day!

2011-07-06T18:27:00.001-04:00

From Marvel

X-23 #12
I have a severe lack of Marvel Comics in my regular reading list. I've been told that DC is more my style, and it seems to have just worked out that way. I read the X-23 comics because I like the X-Men but they intimidate me. I don't know who any of the current X-Men are and I don't know the differences between the Uncanny and the Ultimate. I don't know who the X-Force is or who's side Wolverine is on. With X-23 I feel like I've got a handle on things. I just need to know who she is and everyone else gets some sort of little introduction (or isn't going to be around long enough to worry about.) Right now I get to follow X-23, Jubilee, Wolverine and Gambit. If I want to learn about what is going on with everyone else I could just pick up a book and dive in. I just don't feel ready for it, and I like X-23.

From Marvel

Osma of Oz #8
I think I am going to skip this one this week. These comics are a retelling of Baum's stories. I confess that I've had a couple creepy flashbacks to Return to Oz scenes that I had suppressed. They are still great stories and I love the art in these comics so it is going to be really hard to resist this one. This is number 8 of 8 and so far, I've only read 2 others. I think that if I wait a little bit I can just buy the full trade that includes all of them instead trying to hunt down the first 5. I am really looking forward to reading this, but I am going to try to hold out.

From DC Comics

Flashpoint: Abin Sur - The Green Lantern #2
I talked last week about how much I liked the Green Lantern Corps. Hal Jordan didn't really give me what I was looking for. Abin Sur has a lot of promise, but if I #2, I am going to have to pick up #1. I don't know much about the Green Lanterns, but what I do know is that Abin Sur is dead. I won't be able to just jump in here without figuring out what's going on. I am also kind of worried that picking up another Flashpoint title will pull me deeper into the event. I'm sure that will make DC happy, but so far I've only gotten a couple of them (Wonder Woman and Lois Lane) The stories were related, and as intended they make me want to buy Aquaman. Abin Sur hasn't been in any of the Flaspoint stories I've read so far, so I'm guessing he's been caught up in some others. If I get this, is it going to make me want to buy bunch more? Probably. If that is the case, it will be that much longer that I put off reading the X-Men.

WIP: Stripe Study - So Very Very Close

2011-07-05T21:26:00.000-04:00

I've tried to make a major push to finish my Stripe Study Shawl. My dark yarn ran out about two short rows short of the 14th stripe so I ripped it out. Let me warn you, do not underestimate that final band in the main color. I've been loving this project, and it was a perfect for traveling. Now that I'm so close to the end it seems just like miles of garter stitch. I plan on using every bit of the light purple yarn I can and making this as big as possible. That ball of yarn sure seems like it is never going to end. Hopefully a couple knitting meet ups will help me make it though.

Comicbook Day!

2011-06-29T18:39:00.001-04:00

I've been debating lately about continuing my comic book purchases. I've been thinking about stopping all together, but the reason is because I'm having too much fun. I started buying comics almost a year ago. At the time I thought it would be just a few bucks every week and it would be a fun little diversion. I was having trouble picking out one comic a week to take home. Now everything is different. I am caught up in a bunch of stories, I have opinions about artists and DC's reboot and every week I look at my growing list of comics to buy and briefly consider how much yarn money they equal. So to help me make this decision, I've decided to write a bit about the books I'm planning to pick up. I hope this will help me sort out how much I am really enjoying them and how much I really want to keep getting them.

From DC Comics

Wonder Woman #612
I started with Wonder Woman #601. I'm pretty sure I was the target audience for the renumbering and the new outfit. I am fine with that. It worked and I'm hooked. I'll be sticking with her, pants or swimsuit, to see who she is going to become.

From Image Comics

Super Dinosaur #3
If you remember my geek out love fest for Axe Cop, then it will not be hard to understand why Super Dinosaur appeals to me. It is much more kid oriented than most of what I read, but that is why I love it. I wouldn't mind a dinosaur best friend. (Especially if he was able to overcome that tiny arms dilemma.)

From Marvel

Captain America: First Vengeance #4
This is the final in the four book introduction to the Captain America that we should all expect to see in the movie. I picked a bad (though everyone else says good) time to get interested in Captain America. Completely oblivious of the movie, I decided to look into him and ended up reading what seems like a half a dozen different versions of the same origin story. (None of which gave me any clue to what is happening in the main story line or any explanation of why the Avengers have abandoned Bucky in the Gulag.) This has been my favorite. It has gotten me excited about the movie and the character so I don't want to miss out on the final book.

From DC Comics

Flashpoint: Hal Jordan #1
Hal here is my one half-hearted purchase this week. I haven't read any Green Lantern at all. Hubby and I went to see the movie this weekend. It wasn't a great movie, and Hal isn't my favorite hero, but based on this movie alone the Green Lantern Corps, may be my favorite group of do-gooders ever. I am completely sold on the concept of the Green Lantern. I really like the energy of will foundation for their powers (though I probably would have happily accepted them when it was just magic) and I love the creative potential of what they can do. They can bash in faces when necessary, but there seems to be a huge opportunity for unique problem solving approaches with their powers. When you're a hammer, everything looks like a nail, so I understand that when you have just one super power (or basic set) then that is what you use to solve every problem. The power that the Green Lanterns have is to create anything that they can imagine. That sounds awesome! It also sounds like it has a huge potential to disappoint me, but I haven't been disappointed with most of the comics that I've read so far. I'm keeping the faith and since Flash Point is the big summer event I'll happily use it as my gateway to Oa.

Yarn Bombing

2011-06-28T19:05:00.000-04:00

I didn't find out about International Yarn Bombing Day until the Tuesday before so I was unprepared. Fortunately I had some hearts left over from my I *heart* My City project. Since I had company in for the weekend, I turned them into yarn bombers as well. We simply tied up some hearts to the subway poles and we journeyed through the city.

I think my favorite bombing from that day was the NYC subway turnstiles. Did you see any good knit graffiti? I'd love to see pictures!

Hello Again

2011-06-27T20:40:00.000-04:00

Where did June go? Last time I checked it was May and I was headed down to Disney World to park hop with my girlfriend and to introduce my favorite family to Mickey Mouse. Now it is the end of June and I feel like I am just starting to recover from a whirlwind of fun. I've had friends visit and I've been playing all over the city. I do have some exciting stuff to share and catch up with. You should look forward to:

Yarn Bombing
Renegade Craft Fair
Myrtle updates
My first CSA
and maybe even some Shakespeare in the Park

I hope your June was as wonderful as mine.

Follow Friday: Felicia Day

2011-06-17T19:42:00.001-04:00

From Felicia Day

I became a fan of Felicia Day watching The Guild. I WoWed and I related to her jokes. (I have to admit I love that she's a red head too.) It wasn't until a year later that I saw Dr. Horrible and became a devoted fan. She's continued to be involved in projects that really interest me so I am happy to continue following her. I'm looking forward to sitting down and working my way through Eureka and I'm pretty sure I'll enjoy Dragon Age Redemption when it is available.

Twitter Bonus: @feliciaday <--One of my favorite tweeters as well!

Physics of Animation

2011-06-14T09:19:00.000-04:00

I love NSF because I just received this video in my work email:

Via National Science Foundation

New York State of Mind

2011-06-13T17:25:00.000-04:00

Here is a little love for my city:

New York State of Mind from James Bernal on Vimeo.

Via LikeCool

Playing in the City

2011-06-11T10:14:00.002-04:00

I have friends visiting this weekend! I probably won't be posting until they head home but you can check out their adventures while they are here or you can watch this happy little yarn ball play in another fun city.

Via Threadpanda

Queued: Baudelaire

2011-06-08T18:18:00.000-04:00

From Krentu

When I started my sock knitting I was in awe of Cookie A but I wasn't understanding the fanaticism* of Monkey. I decided I needed a Cookie A pattern to try. Reliable as ever, Knitty brought me Baudelaire. These socks are beautiful and I look forward to them. It has been too long since I've cast on a pair of socks. I should do some digging in the stash once I get caught up from vacation.

*If my experience from knitting Clapotis has taught me anything, it is that I should trust the excitement and be confident that I will love knitting Monkeys.

Gumball Wars

2011-06-07T19:03:00.000-04:00

This cute little video touches the same cute-spot in my heart that the Pixar lamps.

Gumball Wars from Scott Thierauf on Vimeo.

Via LikeCool

Recuperating from Vacation

2011-06-06T20:27:00.000-04:00

Hubby and I got back from Orlando last night. I have an overwhelming amount of internet to catch-up on and photos to go through. I expect the knitting over the next week will be pretty limited, but hopefully I will have some awesome pictures and tidbits from the webz to share. Fortunately, I did get some great travel knitting done. I brought the Stripe Study Shawl with me. It was a perfect project for this week. I love short rows and garter stitch meant I didn't have to focus at all on what I was doing. It is a full relaxation project.

2011-06-05T20:34:00.001-04:00

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2011-06-04T23:55:00.001-04:00

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2011-06-03T19:30:00.001-04:00

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2011-06-02T22:43:00.001-04:00

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2011-05-31T22:24:00.001-04:00

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2011-05-30T19:58:00.001-04:00

Just kidding here is today's picture.

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2011-05-30T19:13:00.001-04:00

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2011-05-29T19:01:00.001-04:00

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2011-05-28T22:38:00.001-04:00

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Monsters University

2011-05-28T12:21:00.000-04:00

Pixar has recently announced that there will be a Monsters Inc. prequel called Monsters University. (For the record I was well into my project before I heard anything about it ;).) I'd love to wrap all of this up with a preview to the new movie but we don't have one yet. Instead I give you a teaser for the original movie and a promise to share the new one once it comes out.

I'm headed to Florida to play at Disney World so expect a wordless week with pictures full of magic!

Billy - Class of 2011

2011-05-28T12:09:00.000-04:00

From Billy's introduction letter:

Hello,

My twin brother Willy and I decided to sign up for the internship program because we were inspired by the Abbott and Costello programs we saw during class. We saw how funny they were and then thought how much more wonderful it would be if they would have been twins like us! I am looking forward to getting to observe your family and learn all of the great things that I can from you, hopefully faster than my brother does from his host family!

Favorite Joke:

What did the right eye say to the left eye?
Between us, something smells.

Jessica's pattern is written completely flat. Even the adorable tail is done back and forth and seamed up so for Billy I decided to do everything in the round. I used Susan's Elefante feet and then just converted Jessica's purls to knits and rows to rounds.

Willy - Class of 2011

2011-05-27T18:03:00.001-04:00

From Willy's introduction letter:

Hello,

My twin brother Billy and I decided to sign up for the internship program because we were inspired by the Abbott and Costello programs we saw during class. We saw how funny they were and then thought how much more wonderful it would be if they would have been twins like us! I am looking forward to getting to observe your family and learn all of the great things that I can from you, hopefully faster than my brother does from his host family!

Favorite Joke:

How do you catch a squirrel?
Climb a tree and act like a nut.

These brothers are a great little lesson in gauge. Billy was knit on a set of needles one size smaller than Willy. You can look at the class photo for a great comparison of their size difference. I think I like the tighter gauge better for toys. I can stuff them a little tighter and now worry about the innards showing through the stitches.

Marcy - Class of 2011

2011-05-26T19:42:00.000-04:00

From Marcy's introduction letter:

Hello,

My name is Marcy. My grandmother says I’m shy, but I’m just quiet. Either way I think this internship is really going to help. Grandma thinks it will bring me out of my shell, but I am just hoping to work on my comedic timing. I am looking forward to getting to know you.

Favorite Joke:

What did the fish say when it hit the concrete wall?
Dam!

This is Maddy's cousin. They lived a couple towns over from each other but ended up at the same university and in the same program. Marcy doesn't talk much, but Maddy chattered enough for the both of them. At her internship she has 6 very qualified mentors to help her find her voice. I'm pretty jealous of her current opportunity.

Gus - Class of 2011

2011-05-26T19:00:00.001-04:00

From Gus's Introduction Letter:

Hello,

My name is Octavius, but please call me Gus. I started school to be a lawyer, but I had to change my major. No one in corporate law appreciated my riddles or impersonations. Making the switch was the best decision I’ve ever made. It has been all giggles since I’ve started studying energy obtainment. I look forward to learning from you and in return, I’ll do my best to assist with any legalese we encounter along the way.

Favorite Joke:

What do giraffes have that no other animal has?
Baby giraffes!

Look at that happy grin. I think I am starting to get better at the embroidered faces on my toys. I had a lot of fun with this project trying to develop personalities for each of them with the little details that I added. Gus has a grumpy source, but he's a bit more cheerful.

Chibit - Class of 2011

2011-05-25T07:33:00.000-04:00

From Chibit's Introduction Letter:

Hi,

My friends all call me Chibit. I love puns and peanut butter! I am looking forward to learning from you, but I’m really excited about the food. I have a whole list of things I want to try: Key Lime Pie, Popcorn, Clam Chowder and Lasagna. Those are just the top few. I really hope you’ll share some of your favorite foods too!

Favorite Joke:

When a clock is hungry it goes back four seconds.

I am almost afraid to post pictures of Chibit. It seems that once she arrived at her new home, she's decided that her antenna are now tentacles. Not that I blame her; I'd want to show off my versatility to my new family too.

Jimmy - Class of 2011

2011-05-24T20:21:00.000-04:00

From Jimmy's Introduction Letter:

Hi,

You can call me Jimmy. My family has been in energy obtainment for generations. I grew up learning all of my father’s best scare tactics, so I am counting on this internship to help me catch up. I want to be as good of a comedian as I am a scarer. My hero used to be Axe Cop, but lately I’ve been trying to pay more attention to Jughead. Thank you for this opportunity. With your help, I’ll make my dad proud.

Favorite Joke:

What is the difference between roast beef and pea soup?
Anyone can roast beef.

I am really proud of Jimmy's mohawk. Not only did I find a use for some left over fun fur, but it looks fantastic! I was so caught up in making that I didn't even think about the jog in my stripes. If I was smart I would have put the mohawk over the the new round repeat, but I was too worried about making it work to make it perfect. Next time I'll do better. The one regret I do have about Jimmy is his plastic eye. I tried to make sure that every one in the cohort that was going to live with a young child would be resilient and safe for rough housing. The plastic eyes are not child safe (they can pop out and be swallowed by the very determined) and I just found out in the past month that the family he is going to live with is expecting a new arrival.

Maddy - Class of 2011

2011-05-23T17:52:00.000-04:00

From Maddy's Introduction letter:
Hi!

Thank you so much for this opportunity. I am very excited about getting to spend some time observing your world. I am a huge fan of music and movies. I also love to go shopping with my friends. I know that we are going to have a lot of fun together and I’m confident that I am going to learn a lot from you.

Favorite Joke:

Knock, Knock
Who’s there?
A cow goes...
A cow goes who?
No! A cow goes moo!

Maddy was the start of this entire project. I wanted to do something special for a girlfriend. She is almost as big of a Monsters, Inc. fan as I am (though she makes up for it with her undying love of other Disney creations.) I had tried to make her a Hug, but mine just looked creepy. I decided to go through my queue and find something huggable. Penelope was perfect.

I wrote up the internship letter from Roz. As each monster finished they hung out in my apartment and Hubby and I started coming up with tidbits about them to include in their introduction letter. Right before sending them out I decided to include their favorite jokes in the introduction letter. I think it gives the host families a good sense of where their humor levels are at.

The Class of 2011

2011-05-22T10:51:00.001-04:00

Ladies and gentlemen, it is with great pleasure that I present to you the Monster's Incorporated graduating class of 2011!

Class of 2011

This cohort has completed all of the classes and training that Monster's Incorporated can offer. Now they are leaving for their internships to perfect their comedy styles. They would like to give a special thank you to their commencement speaker Fred Rickert and their instructors: Kat Lewinski, Angela Tennant, Rebecca Danger, Jessica Zoz, and Heather Rupe.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I started this project in October and I have loved every moment of it since. A couple of weeks ago, several of my friends received this letter:

Class of 2011

Over the last week they have been receiving their interns. I've already been getting pictures of them in their new homes and promises of Flat Stanley style updates! I'm loving it. Over the next week I'll post about each of them individually and tell you knitterly things as well, but before I go any further I want to give a big thanks to Hubby for helping me create these creatures (in every aspect other than knitting), for keeping my secret, for helping me not ruin the surprise, and for being the official class photographer.

Class of 2011

A Parade

2011-05-21T17:59:00.000-04:00

Tomorrow is finally my secret knitting reveal! To help you get ready I have this adorable little video from Sara Moe.

Follow Friday: Family Chic

2011-05-20T18:53:00.000-04:00

From Family Chic

From about section:
I love feathering my nest in unique ways. This blog is a place for me to catch all of my ideas as I'd like to put out a book one day. I hope these projects inspire you.

Camilla's projects on Family Chic are colorful, simple and inspiring. She shares fun little ideas that cute and affordable little projects. I really like that most of her ideas do not require much in the way of craft supplies. A lot of people create beautiful things and share wonderful instructions, but I usually feel like their craft room is a mini-Hobby Lobby. I admit that I have an outrageous amount of stuff for knitting, but I don't have (or want) a large collection of supplies for crafts I don't do regularly. I love that Camilla's ideas are not just inspiring and beautiful, but also things I might actually do. Check out this adorable bud vase. I know I'll use that.

WIP: Myrtle

2011-05-19T19:29:00.000-04:00

I am continuing on with Myrtle. Here is a sleeve!

I know that I said that I was going to follow the pattern as is, but I made an early-morning-middle-of-the-subway-unplanned-spur-of-the-moment decision. I've decided to do an extra pattern repeat and make the sleeves a little bit longer. I confess I think it was a waiver in my swatch faith. I was confident after the support I got, but I decided that my swatches were knit flat and these are in the round so if I felt they were too short I was fine to make the adjustments that I want. I knit so I have all the control right? I'm sure it will be fine. As long as the right sleeve doesn't start to drag on I won't regret it.

Follow Friday: Exercise Before Knitting

2011-05-18T18:56:00.001-04:00

This should have been Friday's post but Blogger's troubles kept me from posting it on time so this week you have a bonus Wednesday Follow Friday!

From Exercise Before Knitting

From About Elinor:

I live with my husband, two kids, and two dogs in Columbus, OH, where I attend medical school at The Ohio State University. Generally speaking, I find “exercise before knitting” a good rule by which to live. I will wash dishes for homegrown tomatoes, sturdy wool, and even sturdier coffee.

I agree with Elinor that exercise before knitting is a great rule. I need to do better about following it myself. Her blog is just as inspiring. It is everything you could want from a knitting blog: fantastic projects, beautiful pictures, great patterns and enviable fibers. If you really want to appreciate Elinor, look no further than her post on making the most of your yarn. It is a fantastic tutorial on how to use a little bit of math to plan out stripes that will let you use your miscellaneous yarn left overs and look completely intentional.

Flying way up there

2011-05-17T19:29:00.000-04:00

So I've been neglecting the blogging for a bit. I am putting the final touches on the secret knitting project. I've taken all the pictures and the reveal is almost here. I think by the end of the week I should be able to share. In the meantime, while I finish sorting out these details I have a video for you.

I've confessed this before, but I'll tell you again. When I was little I use to think that the reason I never saw moths during the day was because they were all flying toward the sun. It made sense to me. They follow the lights at night, why not during the day. I am proud to announce that I wasn't all that wrong! Check out this cute video and pay attention; you might learn something.

Look Up! The Billion-Bug Highway You Can't See from NPR on Vimeo.

More Gardens

2011-05-14T19:59:00.000-04:00

Today was a bit overcast, but Hubby and I went out to take pictures at the Brooklyn Botanic Gardens. I'm quickly deciding this is one of my favorite places on earth. I see something new and beautiful every time we go. Today, I fell in love with this lilac bush:

From May 14, 2011 BBG

Isn't it sensational!* Here are some more pictures that Hubby took while we were out.

*That's a little inside joke between me and whoever else happens to know that this bush is called sensation.

Queued: Stripe Study Shawl

2011-05-10T19:28:00.000-04:00

From Veera Välimäki

I love the asymmetrical stripes on Veera's pattern, Stripe Study Shawl. It looks like the is also askew which makes me extremely curious about the construction. The knitting is all garter stitch (and whatever tricks are hidden in the pattern) so it should make for great tv and movie knitting.

I am so excited about this project that I've pushed it up to the top of my queue. Not only does it look great, but I need a new shawl. I fell in love with my first triangular shawl, but so did a lady at work, so I handed it off to her. My last one, was a bit disappointing so I am still without one. In true Goldilocks fashion, I am trusting this one to be just right. I've already found some beautiful yarn on sale. (It is a very promising start!)

Not a Flock Yet

2011-05-09T20:17:00.000-04:00

I am burnt out on secret knitting, so there is nothing secret about this project. Friends are having a baby, so I've decided to make them a mobile. I confess that a mobile was not really my idea. Meg Bakewell planted the idea in my head before I even knew my friends were expecting. Her pattern Flock, from the Spring 09 Knitty, instantly won my heart.

I have already finished the first bird, and I am in love with this pattern. Meg did a fantastic job designing these birds. The shape of them is perfect and they knit up quickly in just three pieces. I am excited about the other four.

For Charity

2011-05-08T21:02:00.000-04:00

I've decided to create one more exception to my rule. One of my knit groups, Pints 'n Purls, does periodic charity projects. To strictly follow my rule, I wouldn't be able to knit gifts for friends and particpate in the charity projects at the same time, but participating is something I want to do, so I've decided that I am allowing myself. There are still some restrictions though. For now, I've decided that I am only going to work on these projects on Fridays. This means that I get subway time, and I go out for dinner and knitting with a girlfriend of mine that night every week. That is a fair amount of knitting without overtaking my other projects. I'm slowly becoming a more promiscuous knitter.

Now that I've reworked the rules, on to the fun stuff. The group is currently working on squares for a patchwork blanket. I decided to use my stitchionary to play with some cute knit/purl patterns. I am really happy with this first one. It is Pie Crust Basket-weave. I like how tight the basket-weave looks, but the fabric isn't overly dense. This was made with some dish cloth cotton, so it doesn't have much for drape, but I think with the right fiber it would drape nicely.

I'm Spoiled

2011-05-07T18:58:00.001-04:00

I am enjoying a weekend full of comics

and games

I hope you have been just as spoiled as I am this weekend.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Follow Friday: Eskimimi Knits

2011-05-06T18:51:00.001-04:00

From Drop Box

Hopefully you remember Eskimimi from Knit and Crochet blog week. She does an incredible job of putting together an internet event, and her online realm is just as awesome. She has great knitting posts full of beautiful pictures. She also has great patterns, and a bunch of useful tutorials (check out the photography series.)

Twitter Bonus: @Eskimimi (here you will also get to see great pictures for World of Monkey!)

Hugo And Holger

2011-05-05T20:36:00.000-04:00

I'm pretty sure this was Prospect Park:

Hugo And Holger Pilot from Teddy Kristiansen on Vimeo.

Via @neilhimself

Final Teaser

2011-05-03T19:02:00.000-04:00

All of the secret knitting is done!

Some writing and shipping needs to be done before a full unveiling, but it is going to be soon!

BBG Cherry Blossom Festival 2011

2011-05-01T20:08:00.001-04:00

BBG Cherry Blossom Festival 2011, a set on Flickr.

Today Hubby and I went to see the people and the blossoms at the gardens. These trees are so beautiful they can make me appreciate pink.

Back to Knitterly Things

2011-04-28T19:30:00.000-04:00

Take a look at this -

That is Myrtle on scrap yarn. I had to take it off the needles because it can't go any further without the sleeves. I've started the first sleeve and am about 2 1/2 inches into it. As soon as I had the body off the needles I wrapped it around my torso. It doesn't seem wide enough. When I look at the swatches and remind myself about the button band it seems fine. I am really pushing my faith right now though. I washed and blocked my swatches, so I should trust the process (and the math!) but I'm really missing Francis right now. I really liked trying things on along the way. I didn't mind waiting during Aleita because blocking wasn't going to make nearly as much difference. I just need to be more confident with my lace. I'm working on it.

lost at a distance

2011-04-26T20:44:00.000-04:00

From Drop Box

I have been thinking a lot about the influence proximity has on friendship. I have friends in Florida and Arkansas. I have family in Chicago and Seattle. My heart is spread out all over the country and is fuller for it. I've never worried about distances between me and the people I care about. With unlimited minutes and texting, twitter, facebook, and emails, I've never felt disconnected. I worried more about my relationships being asynchronous than long-distance. I have finally hit a chasm that technology can not carry me over even though it was the internet that led me here.

My friend died. She had been battling cystic fibrosis and her fight ended yesterday after a hard weekend. She was my guild leader, and even though I stopped playing WoW almost 2 years ago, I never stopped 'hanging out' with her. We sent each other text messages and emails and persistently ignored the gap between NYC and LA.

Now she is gone, and I feel that there is no one on the other side of my devices. My phone and my laptop use to act as a portal between us, but now they are a barrier to all of the emotions I am having and the actions I want to take. I can't hug her husband and tell him how sorry I am. I can't meet her family and explain how much she meant to me. I've heard about the ceremonies and memorials that people have had online for internet friends who have been lost. I've never doubted their value, but now I am questioning their success. I don't feel like it would be enough. I have been able to share my excitement and laughter with her without any trouble online, but now I want to be supportive, and I want to be consoled, and this medium that was a conduit for my happy emotions is hollow and cold now. I cannot create the comfort that I want by typing, and that frustrates me. I want to say, "I'm here for you," and "Please, let me help" but my location makes my words hollow and my involvement impossible at best and inconveniencing at worst.

Since I can't do anything that my heart wants to do right now, I am trying to find a new way, a virtual way, to say good bye and mourn. Hubby has set up a donation page to give money to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation in memory of Piper: We'll Miss You Piper. What he said is beautiful, and it has made me cry most of the day. I haven't begun to be able to articulate any of those things. Hopefully when I do, I will be as elegant as he was.

What George Likes About Spring

2011-04-25T17:50:00.000-04:00

CBeebies Spring "George" from Matthias Hoegg on Vimeo.

Via LikeCool

I had a sad day today. I lost a friend so I don't feel much like writing. Hopefully this will bring a bit of cheer for you am me both.

"You've got that 'Dum De Dum Dum'"

2011-04-24T13:20:00.000-04:00

Happy Easter to those of you who celebrate. I hope your bunny was better at sharing that this one.

Though he couldn't have been better at hiding.

FO: Seattle Shawl

2011-04-23T17:24:00.000-04:00

I finally decided that I was not having enough fun knitting my Seattle so I bound off. Technically I think this means I have a FO, but I don't feel very satisfied with it. I blocked it this week and it finished drying yesterday. It was cloudy and raining today, but I took it out for pictures anyway. Really, it seemed appropriate.

The finished shawl is about 40 inches across the long edge and less than 20 inches down to the tip. It is not really as large as I would want it to be. I'm not surprised though because I didn't even finish my ball of Noro. The saddest part of this story is that despite the dreary weather and the chill in the air, I didn't wear my new scarf(lette) when i went out to take photos. I gave this a nice long bath, but it didn't really soften up at all. I don't like wearing it on my neck. I don't know what I'll do with it for now. Maybe I'll dig out a teddy bear that needs some accessorizing.

Follow Friday: Epbot

2011-04-22T19:03:00.000-04:00

From Epbot

From About Page:
Hiya. I'm Jen. You might know me from my other blog, Cake Wrecks.

In the past I've been a Jungle Cruise skipper, a cash office accountant, a children's book inventory expediter, a house painter, and a clown - not necessarily in that order. Today I'm a blogger, which is kind of like "clown" and "expediter" mashed together. And from the beginning, I've always been a geek.

Epbot is where I share the things I like, the things that make me laugh, and the things that I'm working on. If it's sci-fi, steampunk, clever, crafty, or cute, I probably love it.

I also quote The Princess Bride and Ghostbusters a lot. Sorry.

Hope you like it.

- Jen

I talked about my love for Jen and her Cake Wrecks team. Epbot is where Jen unwinds and shares all of her non-cakey interests. Cake Wrecks led me to believe that Jen is an entertaining humorist. Epbot has be convinced that she is my long lost BFF. She matches my Disney fandom and general geekery. I my (completely not creepy at all) fantasy world we'd be be neighbors. I'd teach her to knit, and she's lend me steampunk books and we would have regular squee fests playing games and watching movies. Sadly my (completely not creepy at all) fantasy world doesn't exist, I just lurk on her blog and pretend that everything she writes is something she is sharing specially for me (which admittedly does seem a little creepy...) Go check out her blog. You will quickly be able to tell if her interests match up with yours and if they do, you'll likely wish she was your best friend too.

Twitter Bonus: @cakewrecks

Bert and Ernie's Great Adventures

2011-04-21T18:19:00.000-04:00

Did you know that Bert and Ernie are living it up in claymation? I had heard, but I haven't gotten to see any of their new adventures. Here is a short peek at their new shenanigans and how it all happens.

Via Muppet Musings

Queued: Honeycomb Vest

2011-04-20T18:43:00.001-04:00

From Knitty

Sarah Castor's vest pattern is available on Knitty. I am drawn to this vest for the same reason that Sarah originally created the pattern. I like the idea of knitting things that I can wear in the office. Since knitting my second Aleita, however, I've been putting off knitting another vest. Despite this dropping down on my needed garment priority list, it still stays pretty high in my queue. I look at it every time I am thinking about buying yarn. 5 to 6 skeins of yarn is pretty tempting compared to the 8 to 12 projects in my queue. I think I want a nice brick red color. I also think I want to make it in some nice cozy wool. Aleita is knit in cotton, so this would be a completely different garment if I knit it in wool. Maybe this fall, when my Myrtle is done, I'll make this a WIP.

The ABCs of Me

2011-04-19T19:26:00.000-04:00

Here is a list of random information about me that came right from Allyson. Enjoy and let me know if you do your own ABCs.

A. Age: 24 again for the 9th time (27 for you traditionalists)

B. Bed size: King which makes finding a Brooklyn apartment ridiculously difficult

C. Chore you hate: Cleaning the underside of the toilet

D. Dogs: Of course. Hubby just doesn't know we're getting one yet.

E. Essential start to your day: Shower- I'm not really awake until that happens.

F. Favorite color: Green usually a dark hunter green.

G. Gold or silver: Sliver without a doubt.

H. Height: 5’6

I. Instruments you play: At one time I could play Hot Cross Buns on the flute and I could play Amazing Grace on the Recorder. Now I'm more into air guitar.

J. Job title: Grant Specialist

K. Kids: I'm still borrowing others'

L. Live: Brooklyn

M. Mood: Currently Purring :)

N. Nicknames: The closest I've was was in high school when I was Dougherty, but that wasn't much of a nickname. Maybe I should go get one of those.

O. Overnight hospital stays: I've heard I was a sick baby, but I've been good since I've been toddling.

P. Pet peeve: Bad PR

Q. Quote from a movie: Anybody want a peanut?

R. Right or left handed: Right.

S. Siblings: My little bro Cody who has buffed up a bit bigger than me in the army.

T. Time you wake up: Quarter to 5:00 when I run and quarter to 6:00 when I don't. (I have to write it as quarter to because I'm still coping with the idea of waking up at a time that begins with a 4)

U. Underwear: daily

V. Vegetables you dislike: Beets - I've never been able to eat them.

W. What makes you run late: Hubby

X. X-Rays you’ve had: Teeth for my braces

Y. Yummy food you make: Soups

Z. Zoo – favorite animal: Giraffes! and Red Pandas too

Secret Knitting

2011-04-18T19:13:00.000-04:00

I am so close to being finished with the secret knitting. I am hoping to be able to tell you all about it next month. I'm so excited!

Pingu and the Knitting Machine

2011-04-16T18:18:00.001-04:00

I am having more fun than any reasonable adult should playing games with friends tonight. Through the magic of technology, I am able to post this anyway. I'm certain my night is full of zombies, munchkins, dice and drinks, but I have something special for you too.

via Knitting Confidential: Cute overload

Ok, so maybe that wasn't as exciting as a zombie apocalypse. You'll just have to come over and play games with me next time ;). (It was pretty cute though.)

Follow Friday: The Art of Elsa Chang

2011-04-15T18:58:00.000-04:00

From Elsa Chang

From Profile:
Recently graduated from Art Center College of Design in Illustration. Currently working for Disney Publishing.

I seem to be on a streak with the art blogs. I just really like to look at pretty pictures. Elsa Chang's work is no exception. I was drawn in by her Wicked Series, but I am smitten with this giraffe. (A giraffe by a Disney artist, that was probably predictable.) What about you? Do you have any favorite artists?

Superman Classic

2011-04-14T18:15:00.001-04:00

I really like the behind the scenes peek at this short superman story.

via GeekDad

Queued: Monterey Sea Otter

2011-04-13T17:56:00.001-04:00

From Cara Key

I have another toy pattern in my queue. This one is unique because I am determined to make not one but two Monterey Sea Otters for me. Generally, I make toys to give away. I currently don't have much need for toys, but I won't be sharing these.

The last Cara Key pattern that I made was fantastic. I made Alfonso the Monkey and I cannot gush enough. The pattern was fantastic and the outcome was adorable. I really had a hard time parting with it. The sad part of this story though is that to date (and I check back every month or so) Cara and I are the only ones who have posted pictures of this cute cute CUTE monkey. I want other people to make this pattern. I want to see more Alfonso and all of the adorable versions that are just waiting to be made. Make this toy! Don't wait! You will love him as I did.

But back to the otters. I am making two of these. Why two? Because I am going to knit myself up this sweetness.

Sariah Joins the Dark Side

2011-04-12T09:37:00.001-04:00

With the internet's incredible speed, you have probably already seen this video, but I've watched it at least 4 times already this morning. It has made my day so I am going to share it anyway. Besides, you know you want to see it again. If you haven't seen it, enjoy.

It takes a very brave girl to join the dark side in the middle of a Jedi academy. I'm sure Vader is happy since we all know Darth Maul isn't going to last very long.

And Now Something Completely Different - 2KCBWDAY5

2011-04-11T19:44:00.000-04:00

From Drop Box

This is an experimental blogging day to try and push your creativity in blogging to the same level that you perhaps push your creativity in the items you create.

You may have noticed that I skipped Day 5. It wasn't a neglectful skip, in fact, I've been working pretty hard for Day 5. The art in the header and footer of my blog is by Kurt Halsey. I love it, but it is not mine. I didn't make it or buy it, so I've always felt a little bad having there. Ever since I started blogging regularly, I've been thinking of changing that art to something that I have a little more claim to. I decided to do some doodling and try to make something of my own.

From Drop Box

I didn't get very far into the doodles before I realized that I don't really have a very good way of making my drawings digital or working with them once they get there. I found some software for my new laptop and I tried working on the one idea that seemed the easiest for my photoshop skills.

From Drop Box

I wanted to include a kitty in some way, but I didn't have the confidence for that. I like the skyline because I love my city. You may notice that I did a bit of a mash up and added my favorite building from Chicago into the mix too. Unfortunately, I didn't finish this the first night I started working on it. I didn't finish with it on the second night either so I saved my picture and closed my program. As it turns out, you cannot close and save items to open them later if you haven't paid for the full software. Discovering this was extremely frustrating for me and so my little art project has been abandoned. It was fun to play with for a while though.

I'm still considering changing up the look of my blog, but I haven't found much that says Currently Purring like my current set up. Well, except for this:

From icanhascheezburger

Follow Friday: Drawn to Run

2011-04-09T16:39:00.000-04:00

From Flee

From About Me:
My name is Flee. I'm an illustrator and runner - and this is the place where my worlds collide. Here you'll find all the running cartoons you've always known you've never wanted.

Flee hasn't posted in awhile, but I want to share her blog anyway. I love the content so much when she does share that I stick around just in case. On Drawn to Run, Flee combines her fantastic illustration skills with her running passion. I found her blog very inspiring when I was starting to run last year. I share her love for Disney even if I haven't been converted to birthday shoes. If you would like to check out more of Flee's art you can browse her website and grab a great picture of Belle rocking the running gear from her Zazzle store.

Myrtle Grows

2011-04-07T18:54:00.000-04:00

Have you forgotten about Myrtle? Did you think that I have? Well, she did get neglected while I worked on Mixed Motives, but she hasn't been abandoned. In fact, I've made some good progress.

I've accomplished even more since this picture was taken. Right now I am one pattern repeat away from beginning the arm shaping.

At knitting group last night we talked about modifying sweaters for better fit. I'm a true believer in adjusting for your size, but I haven't dared to make any edits to this pattern. It is my first full size lace sweater, so I'm going to be smitten even if I look like I'm wearing a potato sack.

Beyond that, I'm sticking to the pattern because of Snowden. I've decided that she and I think just a little bit differently. As I go through this project, I see things in the pattern that I think that I would have done differently. I am certain that she has a method, it just doesn't always match up to my madness. For example, I generally prefer to knit from charts. This pattern changes the number of stitches from row to row, and she doesn't mark the changes on the chart in the same way that I would. (I say, "I would," like I've written a chart, I should probably say, "I prefer.") I've had to use the written instructions instead. I don't mind, but I think that the reason I don't mind is because she's done so well with the pattern. Even though it isn't what I would prefer, it is written so clearly and is so understandable that it gives me faith. Snowden, I'm gonna trust you on this one.

Were Are They Now Continued 2KCBWDAY4

2011-04-06T19:39:00.000-04:00

I already covered Day 4, but now I have pictures!

From Rikki

Look at that cutie with his bunny and... coffee cup...

From Rikki

Something is brewing in that noggin...

From Rikki

There it is. it is a novice mistake of a professional magician. They are not supposed to share their tricks, but clearly Sam here hides the bunny in his travel mug before pulling it out of a hat. It is pretty brilliant. No one has ever search my mug for rabbits.

From Eskimimi Knits

FO: Bo Brite

2011-04-05T19:12:00.000-04:00

I am happy to report that I finished my scarf last Wednesday at knit night.

Since I already posted some good close up pictures, I wanted to try and get one of the full ~~twelve feet~~ 98.5 inches! I took it out to the park this weekend and found this lovely statue of the Marquis De Lafayette. I think it adds some pizazz to his outfit. I am sorry about the poor picture. We forgot the camera so I had to use my cell phone. It could be worse though. I could be in the staging area rather than behind the lens.

Secret Knitting is Back!

2011-04-04T19:05:00.001-04:00

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

My Knitting Time - 2KCBWDAY7

2011-04-03T17:21:00.000-04:00

From Drop Box

Our knitting and crochet time -- Write about your typical crafting time. When it is that you are likely to craft – alone or in more social environments, when watching TV or whilst taking bus journeys. What items do you like to surround yourself with whilst you twirl your hook like a majorette’s baton or work those needles like a skilled set of samurai swords. Do you always have snacks to hand, or are you a strictly ‘no crumbs near my yarn!’ kind of knitter.

I do most of my knitting during two different times. As I ride the subway:

From Drop Box

and while I relax at home:

It is pretty clear what is consistent about these two. That's my Hubby. On the train, he sits next to me sometimes he reads, sometimes he plays Angry Birds, other times we just talk. At home we usually have the television on for the end of night. I sit next to him and he wraps my arm around me while I knit. I make decisions about my knitting based on this set up. I only knit with circular needles and never knit with straight needles because they poke into the couch pillows and make our cuddling impossible. I've never finished a project that I can't do while I watch TV, because I don't spend any of my knitting time with out distractions.

For today's post, I decided to ask Hubby what my knitting was like for him.

With this view, Hubby pretty much taught himself to knit. Every so often he'll ask me a question like, "Did you just knit those to together?" or, "Are you undoing those knit stitches?" He pretends he doesn't but I think he knows just as much about knitting as I do. He's grown to enjoy the sound of my metal needles clicking against each other. He notices and gets excited when I'm close to finishing.

I couldn't be happier with my knitting time. I am filled with relaxation from my knitting zen, and I am filled with love from my Hubby.

Find out why other people cherish their crafting time.

Something to Aspire to - 2KCBWDAY6

2011-04-02T18:17:00.000-04:00

From Eskimimi Knits

Something to Aspire to - Is there a pattern or skill that you don’t yet feel ready to tackle but which you hope to (or think you can only dream of) tackling in the future, near or distant? Is there a skill or project that makes your mind boggle at the sheer time, dedication and mastery of the craft? Maybe the skill or pattern is one that you don’t even personally want to make but can stand back and admire those that do. Maybe it is something you think you will never be bothered to actually make but can admire the result of those that have.

For today's post, I have already seen several people talk about how simple knitting is and that if you know how to knit and purl, you know it all. Of course I agree, but I think that should take away all of the intimidation and not the aspiration. I taught myself to knit watching Amy's videos on Knitting Help. I am confident that between the knitting support group I've collected on the internet, and YouTube, I'll never have trouble learning something new. Getting comfortable with something new is something entirely different. I like to feel comfortable before I take on the projects that I've set my heart on. As I mentioned on Day 2, I've practiced a lot of color work, but I'm not comfortable enough to take on some of the sweaters that I want to make.

The next skill I need to get comfortable with is double knitting. There is an adorable hat that I want to have for next winter. For it to be a reality, I have a lot of work to do. First I have to learn double knitting. I've never seen, read about, or looked into it before. Fortunately Amy has a video! Next I need to practice. I've found some double knit pot holders on ravelry that will make great practice pieces. Once I'm comfortable its on to my hat. I'm taking this goal pretty seriously, I've already picked up the yarn. Now, I'm just waiting on me.

If you are interested in learning to double knit here are some of the cute patterns that I saw. (click on the picture to open the Ravelry link.)

From Trisha Mitburg

From Chilana

From Susi Sunshine

From Elizabeth Evans

From Phazelia

Follow Friday: Drawn From My Father's Adventures

2011-04-02T16:54:00.000-04:00

From Drawn From My Father's Adventures

From About This Blog:
I have always loved my father's stories, the grim ones from boarding school during the war, the exciting ones from being the son of a spy, the exotic and bizarre and beautiful ones from traveling to unpronounceable places long before there were guide books. I have always seen these stories as pictures and I thought it was high time I coaxed them in writing from the source and drew them.

While I was going to college in Arkansas, I co-taught an ethnography course with a very good friend. I don't quite remember how I initially got involved with it, but I know that it gave me a new appreciation for listening to and making note of the stories that our loved ones have to share. Drawn From My Father's Adventures has Simon Blackall's fantastic stories and his daughter Sophie adds her art to take them a step further. I always enjoy what I find here.

Follow Friday: Dr Chop Suey Knits

2011-04-01T07:11:00.000-04:00

This post should have been last Friday, but I lost track of time in a Zombie Apocalypse. All of the prep for Blog Week has been keeping my writing efforts pretty busy so I am just now catching up.

From Dr Chop Suey

From Header
A blog about a research technician who is addicted to yarn and knitting, oh yeah, and is still trying to figure out what she wants to be when she grows up.

I spend all day working with researchers and trying to help them get the funding they need to keep their labs running. You'd think at the end of the day I'd need a break, but I admit, I have a soft spot in my heart for them. The knitting and the science geekery were enough to get me to get me to check out Dr Chop Suey. The adorable bunny pictures keep me hooked.

Where Are They Now? - 2KCBWDAY4

2011-03-31T20:10:00.001-04:00

From Eskimimi Knits

Where Are They Now? - Write about the fate of a past knitting project. Whether it be something that you crocheted or knitted for yourself or to give to another person. An item that lives with you or something which you sent off to charity.
There are a lot of different aspects to look at when looking back at a knitting project and it can make for interesting blogging, as much of the time we blog about items recently completed, new and freshly completed. It is not so often that we look back at what has happened to these items after they have been around for a while.

I decided right away which project I wanted to hunt down and find out about.

This bunny was a gift to the new son of a friend from college. He is now a year old, and part of one of the sweetest, funniest and most generous families I know. I can always count on my friend Rikki for a smile and unique advice. She has promised me some pictures of Sam and his bunny, but I haven't gotten them yet. I'm sure they will come, but until then, you will have to enjoy this baby video.

Did you see that comedic timing? How could that bunny not be loving life in that house? It is not possible. Everything is good for him.

Find out the fate of other finished projects.

Tidy Mind, Tidy Stitches - 2KCBWDAY3

2011-03-31T19:34:00.000-04:00

This post was delayed due to technical difficulties please enjoy even though it is a day late.

From Eskimimi Knits

Tidy Mind, Tidy Stitches - How do you keep your yarn wrangling organised? It seems like an easy to answer question at first, but in fact organisation exists on many levels. Maybe you are truly not organised at all, in which case I am personally daring you to try and photograph your stash in whatever locations you can find the individual skeins. However, if you are organised, blog about an aspect of that organisation process, whether that be a particularly neat and tidy knitting bag, a decorative display of your crochet hooks, your organised stash or your project and stash pages on Ravelry.

I am slightly embarrassed by the current state of my stash. I yearn for a visible and organized stash, but this is what I have:

From Drop Box

That is my childhood toy box. It is jam packed full of yarn. All of those bags sitting out are the sets of yarn that go with projects that I have cast on. Here is what it looks like inside:

From Drop Box

I keep everything in bags. Most of the bags are groups of yarn for particular projects. The rest were organized by weight at one time, but that has been lost a bit. I love the sentimentality of keeping my yarn in my toy box, but my access to it is horrible. I have to dig to find anything, and usually I have to pull everything out to get to that one ball I know is there somewhere. I've gone beyond hinting to Hubby that I want a new way to organize everything. So far, he's giving me some wall space in the living room that could put the organization system against. We just haven't worked out a new system or taken that inspirational trip to the container store. Until then, I keep everything organized on Ravelry.

From My Stash

Since this has become my main method of organization, I've become a little obsessive. You may notice that some of those say things like 0.14 or 0.46 left. I measure my remaining yarn when I finish a project so I know exactly how much was used so I can know how much is left. I don't have all of it that detailed, but I keep most of the new stash items up to date.

Check out the innovative and beautiful ideas that others have for organizing their stash!

Skill +1UP - 2KCBWDAY2

2011-03-29T20:34:00.001-04:00

From Eskimimi Knits

Skill + 1UP - Look back over your last year of projects and compare where you are in terms of skill and knowledge of your craft to this time last year. Have you learned any new skills or forms of knitting/crochet (can you crochet cable stitches now where you didn’t even know such things existed last year? Have you recently put a foot in the tiled world of entrelac? Had you even picked up a pair of needles or crochet hook this time last year?

I have learned or at least practiced a few new things over the past year. I didn't really set out to learn anything new so I can't claim to have accomplished any goals, but I am a little proud looking back over what I have done.

From Beartato and Reginold

Toy Design - I haven't designed toys as much as I've made some toy modifications. For my Nedroid project, I improvised and made something all my own. I didn't create my own patterns, but I used shapes that I already knew and added some embellishments to make them what I wanted. I think it is fair to consider that a step in the right direction.

Color Work - I didn't learn to do color work over the past year, but I did get a lot of extra practice. All of the dice bags that I made recently gave me a great opportunity to play around with using colors. I am still not very confident in my color work skills. I think I need to learn to throw my yarn so I can knit with both hands. What I'm doing right now, is just not working for consistent gauge when I'm stranding. I doubt this is my last chance to practice, but I am not ready for any argyle sweaters.

Yarn Bombing - I haven't become a rebellious knitter by any means, but during my I *heart* NYC project I left my little bits of yarn graffiti throughout the city. It wasn't nearly as great as the Bull Cozy, but it is a beginning.

Through the Back Loop - Here is another skill that I didn't learn this year, but I can confidently say I perfected it. It took me an entire year, but I finished my Viper Pilots. Close to every stitch in this pattern is twisted. I am no longer afraid, intimidated, or slowed down by "tbl."

Lace Garments - I didn't learn lace this year, but Reid taught me a lot about blocking, seaming and general finishing for a lace garment with multiple pieces. I'm confident enough that I've started a adult sized lace sweater for myself. I even gave Reid a crochet boarder. (I'm not ready to consider that a new skill yet though.

You should go see all of the other mad skillz that knitters have developed over the past year!

A Tale of Two Yarns - 2KCBWDAY1

2011-03-28T20:03:00.000-04:00

From Eskimimi Knits

A Tale of Two Yarns - Part of any fibre enthusiast’s hobby is an appreciation of yarn. Choose two yarns that you have either used, are in your stash or which you yearn after and capture what it is you love or loathe about them.

From Drop Box

The first yarn that I want to talk about is the yarn I love. It has been with me since Arkansas, and I occasionally I pull it out to fondle and contemplate. I love this yarn because it is incredibly soft and cuddly. I don't have much grey or black yarn, but this color is somehow perfect. It soft and simple and still compelling. It is the warmest black I have ever seen. Beyond that, it has great memories. It was a gift in one of my very first yarn swaps when I was still just learning to knit.
What I don't love is that I just couldn't find the perfect project for it there. Initially I tried to make a Feather and Fan Scarf, but it was just too short for my liking. I frogged it and set it aside while I searched for a better pattern. Right now I have the two balls wound up together to make a Foliage. That didn't work out so I tried again with a Hermione. It didn't seem right either. I started to search around Ravelry for someone destashing so I would have a scarf's worth, but I never had luck. Lately, I've been considering picking up another couple balls in a different color and maybe making the Chevron Scarf. I'm sure if I wait long enough, Knitty will show up with the perfect pattern.

This second yarn has been quit an opposite experience. I had never heard of Frog Tree prior to receiving it, but I've been reading everyone on the internet rave about Noro since before I knew what yarn weights were. I finally picked some up for myself when I was visiting family in Seattle over the holidays. Everyone was right about the colors. They are fantastic. I love the long slow transitions and the combination is perfect for my Seattle memories. The trouble is that it feels absolutely horrible in my fingers. It is scratchy and stiff. There are bits of plant embedded in it. I don't mind every so often, but this is a lot. I've been making a shawl with it, and I don't know if I'll want to have it around my neck. I haven't washed it yet so I've still got my fingers crossed, but right now, I just don't understand why a process knitter would use it.

Please go check out some more fiber filled posts from Knitting and Crochet Blog Week 2011.

Eye Candy

2011-03-27T18:47:00.000-04:00

I bought some new yarn! Here is some eye candy for you.

Since I'll be caught up in blog week next week, I probably won't be talking about my WIPs very much. I have a quick update on my Bo Brite scarf. I am close to finished with the second balls of yarn, and my scarf is fantastically long. Really, really long. Taller than me long!

The Aurora

2011-03-26T20:40:00.000-04:00

Blog Week is coming up and I am working to get things ready. That and some other writing I have to do this weekend means I've been distracted from my blogging. Here is a beautiful video, and tomorrow I have some pretty yarns to show you.

The Aurora from Terje Sorgjerd on Vimeo.

Via LikeCool

Hooked

2011-03-24T20:06:00.000-04:00

Please enjoy this adorable film.

Hooked from Character Matters on Vimeo.
Via LikeCool

Queued: Ramona Sweater

2011-03-23T20:12:00.000-04:00

From Sensual Knits

Ramona Sweater is published in Sensual Knits: Luxurious Yarns, Alluring Designs and is written by Jared Young. There are absolutely no surprises about why I want to make this sweater. I love Jared, I love sweaters, I love v-necks, and I love Ramona. Of course all of my previous comments about Jared's patterns being elegant and sophisticated apply again, but the simple truth is that I want to look like that. I want to wear that outfit to work and feel the confidence of wearing something I knit and the confidence that I look good. Everyone who has made this sweater looks good in it. It may be the perfect sweater.

This pattern is the reason I first looked at Sensual Knits and I picked it up because the entire book is full of beautiful patterns that are just as classy as this one. I haven't done nearly enough knitting from the books that I own. I've become reluctant to buy new books because I haven't used the ones I currently own enough. I think I need to prioritize some of the book patterns in my queue to alleviate that guilt.

Giganto Blanket

2011-03-22T22:05:00.001-04:00

If I did this could I skip push ups?

I love that her giant sticks were too small and she ended up getting some pvc pipe and duct tape. I don't know why, but I am really tempted to make something like this. I think I am drawn to the giant loops. They seem extra cuddly. I love the look of the giant knit rugs by Bauke Knottnerus. I want my kid's room to have a giant colorful knot in the corner instead of a bean bag because I'm sure it is great fun.

Video Via @MundaneJane

FO: Brite Hat

2011-03-21T19:16:00.000-04:00

I have finished my Rainbow Brite Hat! It feels really nice to have something new for me. I may be to blame for the cold weather coming back after our beautiful weekend because I really want a chance to wear this before I put it away for the summer. I'm sorry NYC.

I followed the pattern but switch between the two Chroma yarns when I switched as I switched from knitting to purling (the last knit row before purling was always done with the blue/green instead of the pink/orange so the first set of purl bumps would match. Despite the double thick brim, I did use a little bit more blue/green than pink/orange. I think the purl sections are a perfect match for Rainbow Brite's sleeves (or her new bracers). I love the peeks of pink/orange throughout the hat. It is exactly what I imagined, and I couldn't be happier.