My Hidden Stash

Four Years in the Making

2012-01-06T11:24:00.006-05:00

Christmas has come and gone. Presents have been wrapped and the paper has been ripped off. The tree went up and recently came down yet I am still singing I want a hippopotamus for Christmas.

Christmas means many different things to many people and since I spent last Christmas experiencing shell shock I thought that this year I would look at creating new holiday traditions for me and my kids. My budget is small but I didn't want that to affect what my kids found under the tree. Fortunately I've discovered that one of the editors for the The New York Sun back in 1897 was right about there being a Santa Clause. My two youngest had a few freak out gifts under the tree and that was all I could hope or ask for this year.

The day was spent watching new movies, reading books and playing games. I spent the day enjoying having the kids around and basking in the love that surrounded me. But let's go back a few weeks......

The exchange of gifts......

What do I get for HIM......????

I was already knitting a pair of socks (from stash) because I know that he likes them and will wear them but what else should I wrap up for this man. My sister encourages me to take the high road and my mom says to just put the love out there and it will come back to you somehow. I say "let's think this thing through to match my budget and temperament."

Four years ago I started a sweater and finished the sleeves and the back up to the arm pit. Remembering this, I put it to the suitability test.

1) Is it practical and not too personal? Mostly
2) Is it cost effective? Yes (wool was bought long ago so no money out now)
3) Will he wear it? Possibly (He was seen wearing another sweater twice this winter that I knit....he didn't wear it at all last winter)
4) Will finishing the sweater put a hole in your stash that you can justify filling at a later date when things are better? Absolutely

Without further ado, I give you the sweater that was four years in the making.

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

Built into the leg

2011-11-20T16:00:00.006-05:00

In case you were wondering, updating my blog is what I do while I put off writing an essay.

Usually I just knit, but today I thought that's I'd try this instead. What is it about knitting socks? I love the yarn, the colours, the texture, the feel...the everything. They are the perfect traveling project and go with me every where. Among knitters, the traveling sock seems to be an icon, or a statement of "I was there."

In March 2010 I found myself on the journey of a lifetime. If you recall my unfinished blog entries, I travelled to New Zealand and Australia and of course I brought a socks to work on. For some strange reason I put them away and forgot about them until I started going through my stash of the more yummy yarns. Lo and behold....tadah!!!! My lovely Lorna's Laces socks.

It took me a few tries along with some ripping out to come up with a pattern to use with this yarn but on a trip to Sandbanks Provincial Park, it came to me. Here I am almost at the end of the second sock about an inch from starting the toe. A very exciting moment indeed. I should also mention that this sock yarn is as nice to work with as it is gorgeous.

But wait what is this???? A hidden treasure???? Nah...I just discovered that when using sock yarn that comes in 50g amounts, the leg of the sock makes a wonderful ball holder even when there is not much left. The ball is generally tucked up into the leg but is at the cuff for the picture.

Could anyone blame me for putting off essay writing when I have this temptation sitting next to me???? I can only resist so much for so long.....ohhhhhh is that Malabrigo Sock Yarn....no!!! MUST WRITE ESSAY.........just dont look at the Koigu.....oh no....I looked.....

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

Sock yarn only a mother would love....

2011-10-31T18:14:00.005-04:00

Or subtitled......yes I am back and of course I am still knitting.

A couple of years ago I went to Rhinebeck and did some stash enhancing. I would called it having S.E.X......but that just attracts the wrong type of crowd. Before going to this fab event, I did my homework. I found out which vendors I should hit first as they were the ones to sell out of the good stuff. (sounds like I was there to buy drugs....doesn't it?) I went straight to a certain retailer to purchase sock yarn that I couldn't get locally (why can't I resist sock yarn???? I may have to work on that weakness one of theses days. But not today!)

This sock yarn is very well known and has been widely publicised by a certain very popular knitting blogger. Needless to say I was quite anxious to buy a skein....or two....or five. Some time ago (as this is a blog post that has been on the back burner for quite some time) I started to knit a sock with said sock yarn. I have never been more disappointed in my life.....BLECH!!!!!

I couldn't believe my eyes.....this was going to be a sock that would never see the light of day. I would never wear these socks nor would I make them for anyone else. I must have been blind when I bought the skein...no wonder it was on the seconds rack.

I call this ball of ugly sock yarn.....

I call this beginning of ugly sock.......

Those who have been reading my blog for some time, know that I have been working on the sock yarn.....and despite what I said about the sock yarn.....

doesn't it look great in the blankie????

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

Funny Beyond Belief

2011-03-30T18:15:00.002-04:00

I just can't stop watching this video.

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

It just so happens.

2011-03-08T13:07:00.005-05:00

It just so happens that the week of February 21-25 I was in Toronto, and that I was there the weekend before and after those dates. It just so happens that I like to walk and although a fair distance, from where I was staying, I walked to Kensington Market. It just so happens as I was aimlessly wandering around, I came upon Lettuce Knits. It just so happens that the Yarn Harlot was not shopping for yarn there, that day. I just so happens that I can't have every thing my way.

It just so happens that two skeins of lovely purple Koigu followed me out of the store that day.

It just so happens that later that week I made a deliberate visit to Romni Wools. It just so happens that I found myself in their basement surrounded by discounted and discontinued balls of wool. It just so happens that Mission Falls has closed their door and Romni has put the remaining Mission Falls stock in their basement. It just so happens that enough 136 merino superwash for a sweater and one ball of sock yarn followed me out of the store.

It just so happens that yarn bought while on holiday doesn't count as stash.

So, it just so happens that I have not cheated on my yarn diet. It just so happens that I know you'll all agree with me on this.

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

The Begining

2011-02-07T13:33:00.002-05:00

As promised, to myself mostly, here is my first post for my own seven things project. I did what I could, but considering I wasn't around any of my stuff this week, my outs are few and far between.

I brought a small selection of recipes (something else I collect) in one of the folders that I keep them in, to the apartment. One evening I went through them and got rid of a surprising amount of things. These would include manuals for long dead microwaves and recipes collected from newspapers and magazines for dishes that I will never make. If nothing else, it is a start.

My friend Taph made me realize that the time I do spend in the apartment does make me realize just how little I need. This, however, is a tainted view of reality as I am up to my eyeballs in work and have very limited spare time. When spare time returns I will need to return to my happy place and my usual leisure time activities will once again find a space in my life.

Other than a selection of several pieces of paper, I did manage to throw out a cracked chocolate mold. Onward and upward I go and this is just the begining.

Until next time
Yours in yarn,
The Fibreholic

Dealing with the Hand that's Dealt

2011-01-31T13:23:00.005-05:00

I'm back and I've started stalking my favorite blogs again. Don't worry.....if I start stalking you in person then you'll know you're in trouble.

In revisiting some of my favourite blogs, I've discovered a few common threads of wisdom. Firstly the resolution to live more frugally and secondly to learn a new skill or get better at one you already have.

I am on a VERY tight budget. I have to live within my means. I have savings but I'll need those to help set up my own place this summer. I've decided that instead of focusing on not spending and feeling hard done by because I can't afford to get something or just don't have the money for the purchase, I'll focus on what I do have.

This year I took two trips and both times I came back with some seriously gorgeous stash enhancement. The last one was in August and I vowed that I wouldn't buy any more yarn/wool for two years. In December I told someone that I still hadn't bought a single skein, his reply was "that's because you don't have any money". When I told a knitting friend about this conversation her reply was "ok so what have you bought?" I think that it will be the muggle who will keep me on track.

I've bought two sets of DPNs. Since Sept 2nd that is all I've bought. That's it! Yes I know some of you are shocked and at least one of you has fainted. Not to worry though I am consoling myself with some stash diving. Feeling hard done by and having the urge to cast on a new project with something GORGEOUS from the stash, I started a lacy cardi from a wool/cashmere blend. One word comes to mind when I work on this project.....heavenly!!! On further inspection of the stash I have this yarn in two more colours, both with enough to make cardis. That is just the tip of the iceberg of what I have in my stash. I really have no reason to feel deprived, but I think that I'll continue to go cold turkey and refrain from visiting my LYS for the next few months.

Other than curtailing yarn purchases....what else is there? Answer: The Seven Things Project!

My motives are not so much about wanting less, living frugally, needing less or even trying to be environmental as they are more about not being able to buy anything and not wanting to pack up as much when I move. Getting rid of seven things a week won't be hard for someone who can't afford to buy anything. It will mean that I have to examine all my stuff and decide if I really need to continue having it in my life.

Did I tell you that for almost two months DH and I have been sharing an apartment? He lives there one week while I'm at the house and then we trade. I'm at the apartment this week so there is only so much that I can do about culling my un-wanteds, un-neededs and things cluttering my life. I'll see what I can do and let you know what happens.

Here's the goal: get rid of seven (or more) things each week. I'll try for a weekly update and hopefully it will be on Mondays....but you know me.....that may not happen (for example today is Tuesday). Regardless the stuff has to go.

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

One day at a time

2011-01-24T13:39:00.002-05:00

Yes I know that it has been some time since I last posted but things have been happening in my life that I am forced to deal with. These are dark and painful things. These are things that I never thought would ever happen to me. Sad things, hurtful things and heart breaking things.

DH has gotten on a train and is going full steam ahead in the other direction. It has come clear to me that I have no choice in this matter, this is his journey to take. He will not even slow down to look behind him until this matter is well underway and his journey has reached its first destination.

In the meantime, my family has been ripped apart and the house is being prepared to be sold. This summer I will get my own place. I will embark on a new phase of my life as a single woman. Maybe this is something that I should have experienced when I was 20 not at ??. (yeah like you really thought that I was actually going to divulge my real age) How did I get to this point? The answer is never clear. My past, present and definitely future is covered in the thick fog of uncertainty and is being held there by fear. Maybe when I stop being afraid will I be able to face the future head on with the confidence that I know is somewhere deep inside me.

So until that time, as my friend Sarah says "be calm and carry on". My friend Taph tells me, I cannot change the decisions of the past but be mindful of the decisions that I make from now on. Here's to making the very best decisions from now on.

All I can do is cry when I must and laugh when I can and just take it one day at a time.

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

Something Wicked this Way Comes

2010-10-01T14:00:00.010-04:00

I've gotten to the point in my life where if I can't celebrate my birthday in the way that I want, I'd just rather forget about it. This year, for the second year in a row, I had to get up at 4:15 am and work for 12 hours before any type of celebrations could begin.

Turns out that my birthday celebrations had to be shared by a celebratory meal for the teen. (Which means we went to her pick of restaurant so that she could have her favorite meal) So armed with the man and three kids we went out for supper after work.

I was looking forward to quick and quiet birthday celebrations but as it turned out....that was not to be.

Remember Lulu...the very naughty sheep??? I asked Denise if it would be okay if she came to visit while on her world travels. Denise agreed and the arrangements were made. After all, Woolworth was dying to meet her.

So when did she appear on my doorstep? You guessed it....my birthday. So not only did I have to share my birthday celebrations with the teen but I was shoved into the shadows further by sheep on a date.

Woolworth was so excited until he saw the empties. He began to get very nervous and wondered what he was getting himself into by begging me to invite her to our home. Lulu is a unique creature....frankly I've never met a sheep who likes beer......my beer....as much as she does.

Woolworth is a gentleman and despite being scared to death of the energetic and amorous advances, he took Lulu to the movies and bought snacks. (He'd been saving his allowance for weeks)

He treated Lulu to Avatar: the last air bender. She really seemed to like it, although she did complain about the lack of style in the design of the 3D glasses.

The following weekend I went to a friend's place for additional birthday celebrations. What am I saying...I'd hadn't actually celebrated my birthday yet.

Again the lush was into my birthday beer and drinking like a fish. Glad my friends have a keg machine so that they could easily quench her thirst. Good thing she wasn't the designated driver because by the end of the night, she was in no condition to drive.

Well Lulu needed to check out other things besides the beer that Canada's capital has to offer so I brought her to visit the gang at KnitKnackers and Biogenie. Lulu and I both got our legs done, she got to meet the great Emily and discovered Malibrigo.

The fun didn't actually start until I brought her to work with me one night. At that time my job was still babysitting a building but I did so by watching camera monitors.

"How do you work this thingy"

"What thingy, Lulu?"

"The thingy that moves the camera?"

At this point I should have locked her in a closet, because my night became a whole lot more "interesting". But no, as I was trying to be a good hostess, I taught Lulu how to operate the cameras.

"So if I turn this knob then I can zoom in really close?"

"Yes, Lulu....really close"

As soon as the words were out of my mouth, I realized what I had done. I had created a monster. A spying, snooping and peeping monster. She couldn't be left alone for a moment I couldn't even turn my back on her.

I even developed a mantra that night: "NO Lulu, you may not use the cameras to spy on the cute guy in the apartment across from us"

She was a fun guest but that sheep tried my patience that night. She is home again, where she belongs. After having her for a couple of weeks I can understand why Denise sent her on a holiday.

Woolworth however, is still in therapy and still trembles around aggressive females.

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

The continuing saga

2010-05-06T12:43:00.008-04:00

I'm begining to think that I'm a very bad blogger....no wait I probably am a very bad blogger. Oh well.....ignoring my blog....ignoring my kids.....just another of my own little quirks.

So where was I? Oh yes In Aukland, NZ and headed to Rotorua, NZ

This was my first experience with hostel living. I soon discovered that the rooms are small and it's like living in a co-ed dorm (which isn't all bad considering my run in with a guy in a towel)

Rotorua is home to a large aboriginal population called the Maori. As such there are many touristy things to do in the area based on their culture. New Zealand is even considered a bi cultural country. So without furthur ado here are a few pix I took while there.

I went to a Maori ceremony and feast cooked in the traditional way called a Hangi. What you see here is a Maori challenge of peace.

Got to go 65 metres below sea level while caving.

This is Nigel, he was my guide for my white water rafting adventure.

Visited a geothermal spa called Hell's Gates. Had the most wonderful mud bath....you haven't lived until you've had a mud bath.

And since you asked.....yes I did partake in the night life of Rotorua. Although soon after I took this the grumpy security guard told me to get down off the bench.

Now where is the knitting and the stash enhancement you ask.....it is coming...trust me it IS coming.

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

Reports from Down Under...part one

2010-04-20T10:50:00.012-04:00

Since Kathy asked.....

My journey Down Under was like no other experience I've ever had. I don't want to say that it was a once in a lifetime event as I plan on returning to my beloved Australia in the not so distant future. I also plan to continue to enjoy life to the fullest and have many more amazing adventures.

First stop Aukland, New Zealand. My aunt lives there and I wanted to spend time visiting her. I didn't see much of the city as much of my time was spent with my aunt. This is something that I've been meaning to do for a long time.

Our first stop was the Sky Tower. The tallest building in the Southern Hemisphere. I took quite a lot of photos of the city from the top of this tower including (what I've been told are really scary) these two.

Afterwards, while taking photos of the tower from the outside, I started up a conversation with a total stranger. You will find that this is normal for me and something that I do frequently. Turns out this guy, Matt, is from the same city that I am.

Aukland is a great city and deserved more of my time, but since I did not have the luxury to be a casual tourist, I could not afford more than three days. In that time I did some bush walking, ocean swimming, sight seeing and some wandering around the city on my own.

What is New Zealand without a sheep picture???

Next time.....Rotorua, New Zealand

Until next time

Yours in Yarn,

The Fibreholic

The Crash of the Clash

2010-04-14T16:09:00.003-04:00

I had such high hopes for this movie, Clash of the Titans. It had everything going for it. The movie had everything it needed: great actors, timeless story, good special effects and a gorgeous Aussie accent. But somehow when you put all those components together something happened. The movie fell short of something great. I really can't describe it.

Towards the end I really didn't care if Andromeda was saved or if Perseus made it out of Medusa's lair. It didn't matter to me if Hades defeated Zeus or not and if Argos was destroyed by the Kraken....oh well. Not even being in 3-D helped this movie especially since it cost more for admission.

I really wanted to see this movie because, and I'm not ashamed to admit it, I really like the 1981 version of Clash of the Titans with none other than Harry Hamlin. The acting was bad and over the top but at least I cared about the characters.

But what really ruined this movie for me, what really took the cake, what, to this day, makes my blood boil at the thought of wasting 106 minutes on this movie is.......I forgot to bring a knitting project with me to work on while I watched the movie.

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

The Pacific

2010-03-10T03:44:00.003-05:00

Kia Ora (translation-hello)
Guess where I am......hahahaha....Aukland NZ. I am having a wonderful time and want this vacation to last forever. I suppose everyone says that about their vacations.

Today I swam in the ocean. Now for those not living anywhere near a coast you might understand what a special event this is for me. I grew up on the East Coast of Canada and have lived on the West Coast and have spent many an hour swimming in the ocean. Some may think that the events of today wouldn't mean anything to me.

If you thought that, you couldn't be more wrong. Today I went swimming in the Pacific from the other side. This water was special, this water belonged to New Zealand and the Kiwis were gracious enough to share their little slice of heaven with me.

I swam, I floated and turned all pruney. I parked myself on my towel to let the sun dry me off and then I fell asleep.

Yeah...big mistake.

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

Leavin' on a Jet Plane

2010-03-05T01:47:00.003-05:00

There are times in life when I lack the words to describe how I feel. This is one of those times.

Tomorrow I will embark on a journey of discovery. I am going through the air, across the country and over the ocean. I am going by myself. Bringing someone with me would only defeat the purpose of the trip.

I want see new lands and meet new people. I want to breathe in the ocean air from the New Zealand side of the Pacific and listen to the music of her people. I want to embrace Australia as my own and feel her earth under my feet.

To experience all that travel has to offer and hear the stories of the people is something I long to do. So tomorrow I start down the road, hopefully to a better understanding of the world around me and possible of myself.

Pictures will be taken and socks will be knit. Friendships will be renewed and created. Memories that last a lifetime will be made.

And if I'm very lucky, when I get home, I won't find that the kids have taken over the house with DH cowering in a corner.

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

A tail of Two Kitties

2010-02-22T17:59:00.005-05:00

Against all logic and massive allergies, last June DH decided that we needed to get a cat. I really wish that he would let me sit down when making these types of announcements. I am worried about possible brain damage because I hit my head on the floor when I go crashing to the ground.

The mom of one of the teen's friends told us about a neighbour with kittens to give away. So the arrangements were made in secret and DH and I went the following Saturday under the guise of grocery shopping. He wanted a female kitten and they had two left, both female. He chose one and I jokingly said "let's take both".

I feel at this point I must interrupt and remind everyone that despite being a bonafide ogre, DH is an animal lover, through and through. So after chatting with the owners of the mama cat he broke down and said, "we might as well take both".

So I scooped up both kittens, stuck them in the box and ran to the car before he had the chance to change his mind.

At first the kittens, named Picasso and Monet, spent their nights in the basement then it was the garage for their nocturnal frolics. As we live in the boonies, it was DH's plan all along to have the cats play rodent control and so far they have done their job very well. Being litter mates the two were extremely attached and rarely left each other's side. The kids were over the moon about adding to the zoo and the kittens have become apart of the family. Regularly they could be found sleeping with one of the kids or getting chased by an irate knitter with a tangled mess of yarn.

This tale does not have a happy ending I'm afraid. Living in the country, there are rodents but there are also larger, more dangerous creatures. We have not seen Monet in over 36 hours and there are strange tracks on our property. There were sobs and tears this morning and quiet reflexion this afternoon. Now there is acceptance.

Monet

Monet and Picasso having a nap

It is something that we must deal with living out here in the boonies but doesn't get any easier. Goodbye Monet, we love you.

Until next time

Yours in Yarn,

The Fibreholic

My new toy

2010-01-29T16:28:00.006-05:00

Yup....Even I can not resist peer pressure forever. As much as I wanted to remain strong and stand firm in the belief, that I could live without the bonds placed on society, by the evil empire, called telecommunications. I didn't need a cell phone. I was living life to the fullest without a cell phone. The one time in my life when a cell phone could have come in handy I had three men drive by me, stop and ask if they could call someone to help get me out of the ditch.

But then last week happened. The universe spun around a little too quickly and I had to jump on the cell phone bandwagon. I was more than 45 minutes late to pick up DD #2 from school. I was in the middle of nowhere because some brilliant person (oh wait I was the only on in the car at the time) decided to take back roads instead of the highway. If I had a cell, I could have called the school and let them know that I was on my way. Instead I made the principal and a teacher stay the extra 45 minutes without any idea that I was actually coming to get her.

So I researched my options online and talked to the guy at work whose sole purpose in life is to communicate on his cell. I found a basic phone, a good service provider, a monthly plan that is reasonably priced and is good value for the money. And to top it all off, my phone is RED!!!!!

But the best part of all is......the phone came with a free knitting bag.

That's what its for....isn't it???

Until next time

Yours in Yarn

The Fibreholic

Hallelujah Indeed

2010-01-11T19:51:00.002-05:00

I didn't know this group existed until recently. WOW

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

To Join or not to Join

2010-01-06T10:12:00.005-05:00

I'm fighting an urge. I'm fighting an urge to buy sock yarn. This is very hard for me and to tell you the truth I really don't know why I'm even doing it. But I am fighting the urge.......quick some get me some oxygen, I need to lie down until the urge goes away.....someone please catch me, I'm feeling woozy and I'm afraid that I may faint.

Yesterday I was reading The Harlot's blog post about the Rockin' Sock Club and of course I headed over to the site. I read, I drooled, I signed up for an account and then I calculated. I am now fighting the urge and I'm wondering why.

Do I like hand painted/dyed yarn? YES

Do I like the fact that I'll get the colours before the general public? YES

Do I like the fact that I'll get sock patterns before the general public? YES

Do I mind not having to spend 2 hours staring at a display trying to decide which colour of sock yarn or pattern to buy because someone else has made those decisions? NO

Do I like the extra goodies they are including in the membership? YES

Can I afford the cost? YES

Would I like to get a yarny present, in the mail, every other month? YES

Is it possible to have too much sock yarn? NO

So why haven't I whipped out my credit card and signed up? I really don't know. I could say that it's because I'm saving for my trip and that I'll be buying enough fibre during my holiday to choke a horse. I could say that I have already gone past the point of SABLE with my sock yarn stash and am now working on my kids' inheritance. I could say that certain plans I have for later this year may make money and time tight for me.

I could also say that I've got this in my stash.....and would like to actually knit with the yarn, once, before buying even more.

But in case that's not it, if anyone sees the snatchers please tell them I'd like my body back.

Until next time

Yours in Yarn,

The Fibreholic

Celebrating the big 2-0-0

2010-01-01T10:52:00.004-05:00

Here it is, the first day of 2010 and I have reached blog post 200. I can't believe that I've actually had 200 things to say....(you in the back...quit your snickering). I've shared bits and pieces of my life with you and still you keep coming back. I've let you in on my good days, my bad days and my embarrassing days. Hmmm maybe it's my posts about my public humiliation that keep you coming back. Or the returnees could be those looking for ways to hide various types of stash and hoping I have the answer. (Hint...that coke can on your bedside table isn't fooling anyone).

Here's to looking forward to spending time with all of you throughout the next 200 posts. As for the new year, there are those who would take the time today and reflect on last year as well as make their New Year's resolutions. I shall do neither. I am looking forward to the new year as I have planned many adventures for myself over the next 365 days.

The first is my trip. It will begin in New Zealand then on to Australia. Yes, I am just a touch crazy to be doing this but what a trip it will be. I'll get to visit friends and family, see new places, eat new foods, meet new people, take plenty of pictures and above all else, have the time of my life.

I have consulted travel books and websites for things to see and do. I have contacted friends to arrange times to visit. I have booked flights to bring me to and from this adventure. I have checked out multiple sites of places to stay and how to get around while I'm there. Now all I have to do is make some firm decisions and wait for my holiday to begin.

In case you don't recognize me, I'll be the giddy one bouncing off the walls.

Whatever your plans are for this year, be good to each other and to yourself. Dance like no one is watching, Love like you never have before and Knit like there is no tomorrow.

Until next time,
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

Red Faced, once again!

2009-12-22T16:53:00.004-05:00

Last week DH and I went to the movies. This, to all who read this blog, even on a semi-regular basis, should not come as a surprise. Nor should the fact that I was knitting at the movies.

So there we were, minding our own business when the unthinkable happened. It was so horrific. I wouldn't wish this on my worst enemy.

During a quiet part of the movie, I had just finished knitting part of a round when my now free DPN escaped my left hand and fell to the floor. I have no memory of how this happened. Was it an intense moment in the movie? Did I suddenly feel the need to make a hand gesture? I have no idea!!!!! It's possible that because the event was so tragic I have blocked it out.

Picture this, if you will. You are in a dark room full of people and without warning you find yourself with only three DPNs. All you can do is sit quietly and go through the three steps of grief.

Embarrassment-When a needle falls to the ground you'd be surprised at how loud the sound is during a quiet part of a movie. At least I realize, that at this point if anyone starts talking I've got no right to play "no talking during movies" police. I just don't have a leg to stand on.

Upset- I have no idea how much longer the movie is, so I don't know how long I'll be without my knitting. At this point, DH holds my hand to help calm me.

Panic - If I can't find my fourth needle then there will be no knitting during the entire drive home. This will be a whole hour of lost knitting time. Tragic, tragic, tragic. Can you feel my pain?

The movie ends and the lights turn on. People quickly leave the theater. Not DH and I. We are on our hands and knees looking for my DPN. This was NOT our finest hour and the experience was more than just a little humbling.

This story does have a happy ending, we found my needle and I was able to knit all the way home.

Personally I think the socks will be worth the humiliation.

Until next time

Yours in Yarn,

The Fibreholic

On the first day of Christmas....

2009-12-13T09:21:00.006-05:00

.......my true love gave to me.......

Here's one side,

and here's the other.

Do you think that I'll get a new toaster for Christmas?

Until next time

Yours in Yarn,

The Fibreholic

I've been replaced!

2009-12-08T16:34:00.004-05:00

The fact that I love making socks has never been a secret. I've been very open about my obsession of sock yarn. If you recall, I've even laid out my collection of sock yarn for the world to see.

The thing about sock knitters is as much as we love wearing our own creations, eventually we have to share the knitted love with those around us. I've found that when the recipient of knitted socks happens to be extremely fond of knitted socks, the world is your oyster.

"Look dear I bought 5 skeins of gorgeous sock yarn and this one is for you."

He is not thinking about the extra 4 skeins you bought but the pair of custom sized hand knit socks that he will eventually get.

DH loves the socks I knit for him. He refers to the department store socks as the "disposable ones". He even wears his hand knit socks for three days straight before giving them up to the laundry. Last night he was commenting on the pair that I knit for him, last month, for his birthday. They fit just right and are very soft. They have even felted slightly in the heel making that area even more soft.

I swear the whole time he was gushing about the socks, he was fondling them. What's a wife to do?????

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

How to make a UFO

2009-11-24T17:01:00.003-05:00

First start with 20 balls of a luscious yarn containing 20% cashmere (VIP by Lana Gatto). If said yarn was 50% off then you'll know that you are off to a great start.

Mix in a cute (and free) jacket pattern that you found on the DROPS site.

Sprinkle in a wool festival that will be attended by thousands of knitters to admire your creation. This in itself creates a deadline but you've added your own modification to the recipe in the form of plenty of confidence.

Mix altogether with a healthy amount of procrastination and this is what you get....

Two sleeves and an almost finished back.

Finish by letting jacket simmer while you try desperately to finish knitted Christmas gifts in time.

Until next time

Yours in Yarn,

The Fibreholic

It's Hip to be Square

2009-11-11T10:15:00.004-05:00

When I was at Rhinebeck.......

I'm sure that you think all my conversations start out like that. They Don't....HONEST!!!!

I'm a type of person who likes practical souvenirs. Instead of a T-shirt with a city logo, I'll choose a bag, with logo, that I can flash on a regular basis. Sometimes I'll find a souvenir that I be able to use often. but unfortunately I won't be able to flash it to the general public. I could carry my yarn meter around but that would give muggles, as a whole, the wrong impression about my sanity.

When I was at Rhinebeck....... I picked up something cool: Kollage square DP needles(US 6 - 4mm). I was doubtful about these strange contraptions....but WOW .....double WOW......I love them so much that I've ordered a couple of sets in sock knitting sizes. But you knew that I was going to say that.

At first they seem crazy strange to you and you wonder why they are even in your house and near your other stuff. Slowly you get use to them and eventually you'll never know what you ever did without them. Sounds like the definition of motherhood.

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

I'll Let You Decide

2009-11-03T07:23:00.003-05:00

I'm not normally a rude person.
I'm not normally an inconsiderate person.
But as for my actions the other night, I'll let you decide.

DH and I were off to a Pops concert at the NAC and of course I brought some knitting along. It's a sit down event where the audience get to enjoy some great music. No different than going to a movie but different from going to a Great Big Sea concert where I'm constantly
up and down.

So there I am sitting quietly, enjoying the music, with a sock on the go. Shortly after the concert starts, I notice the woman sitting next to me, staring in my direction. It's getting rather obvious so I turned to look back at her.

Annoyed woman: Are you going to do that all night?
Me: Is it bothering you?

At this point I'm concerned that perhaps the needles are making some noise and disturbing her. If this way the case I would have gladly put the sock away.

Annoyed Woman: Yes, I can see it.

My knitting is bothering her because she can see it......I could think of only one response.

Me: Don't look at it then!

DH did say afterwards, that to my credit, I did bring my knitting lower down and made my movements much more subtle. Despite this, the annoyed woman felt the need to hold up her program to shield her peripheral vision from the sight of my knitting.

The annoyed woman and her friend left during intermission. When they came back, for the second half, the two woman switched seats so the annoyed woman wouldn't be disturbed by the sight of my knitting. I should mention there were plenty of other seats they could have moved to for the second half including a stretch of 8 empty seats two rows in front of us.

So...am I rude and inconsiderate??????

I'll let you be the judge.

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

Pure Pleasure

2009-10-27T07:30:00.015-04:00

While I am a little late in reporting this, I can't go without giving you the rundown of a most fabulous weekend.

The weekend started with DH driving me to Ogdensburg, NY. He had his misgivings about leaving a car in the parking lot at Wal-Mart for a whole weekend. I understand this, but it did make things a little complicated, at the border, when he went into a long tirade explaining the situation, to the customs guy. Sure enough, Customs Guy needed to be enlightened about all things woolly happening in his own state.

Me: I'm going to Rhinebeck.

CG: blank stare

Me: The Duchess County Wool and Sheep Festival

CG: Where's that?

Me: Across the river from Kingston

CG: Are you here to catch the bus at the Wal-Mart parking lot?

It turns out that a carload of Canuck ladies went through before me and had explained the situation to another CG who then passed on his little understanding of this weekend.

In his own humorous way, as I got on the bus, DH told me not to socialize too much. Funny man! He knew exactly what would happen. A bus full of ladies (and one token husband) tends to socialize...a lot. Some of us had never been to Rhinebeck and we were eager with anticipation. Others were returnees and were excited because they knew what was in store for them. In my own little corner the conversation went from husbands to work, kids, quilting and pole dancing. You can't say the the topics of conversation on a bus trip aren't varied and interesting. LOL

As mentioned before, the phone in my room did not work so I couldn't get a hold of Mad Mad. Bummer!!! But hopefully I would be able to run into her at the Ravelry meet up on the Fair Grounds.

At the meet up I circled the group, desperately hoping to catch a glimpse of Mad Mad. No!!! I can't see her anywhere. I can't identify her from the vast crown of ravelers gathered. I was ready to yell, at the top of my lungs "Hey Mad Mad" because I'm not above embarrassing myself in public. But then I was distracted by a couple of ladies who came up to me and went gaga over the Noro sweater I was wearing. While it might be a little vain, I think that at one point I did start strutting around because of the many compliments I received about that sweater.

But wait....I have her cell number. I raced to the pay phones only to discover they didn't accept coins for long distant calls. I tried to get the call billed to my home phone but when DH answered he didn't hear the recording of my name so all I heard him say was "sorry I need some confirmation". Despite me yelling into the phone "Just say yes" (although I suspect he couldn't hear me at all) he hung up. So I called collect and told DH to call Mad Mad to tell her to meet me at the First Aid station. At that time I didn't realize there were more than one First Aid station. Confused yet? You should have been one of the ladies in the line up to the washroom housed next to the phones listening to my conversations. I am, if nothing else, amusing to total strangers.

I think that a trip to Boston (I think she lives somewhere around there) is in order. If I'm ever going to meet this elusive blogger.

Pictures????? Of course I took pictures......traveling sock mojo with Bob

a kangaroo

a lemur

sheep shearing

a sheep to shawl competition

a way to use up stash if I ever need a place to live

the spinning wheel of my dreams (it is so on my want list),

This is the Big Sock started at the Sock Summit and yes I did knit on it

If I weren't traveling on a bus I would have found a way (excuse) to bring these little guys

home with me...

.......or maybe this one

My favorite event???? Aside from the shopping????? The leaping Llamas competition. I'd go back next year just to see that again.

Speaking of shopping, yes, I did pick up a few things. Not as much as I'd like as I have a MAJOR trip planned in a few months...but that's a topic for another post.

Until next time

Yours in Yarn,

The Fibreholic

It never fails

2009-10-16T21:13:00.005-04:00

It has been said that in life there are two things which are certain.....Death and Taxes!

I'd like to present two other certainties for your consideration.

If I pick the weekend to go camping, it will rain. DH has pulled down the tent and packed up our gear in "cats and dogs" type monsoon rain so many times that I am no longer allowed to pick camping weekends anymore.
If I make the hotel reservation, there will be a problem with the telephone. I wouldn't normally put this on the list but this is the third time I've had telephone issues.

Here I am in Kingston, NY, eagerly awaiting tomorrow for the bus to carry me off to Fibre mecca AKA Rhinebeck. I wanted to call DH to let him know that I arrived safe and sound. I really wanted to call Mad Mad so that we could arrange a meet up place. BUT.....the phone in my room does not work. I even walked down to the local wine and liquor store to see if she was there but Mad Mad was nowhere to be seen.

Hopefully I can find a pay phone and call her cell tomorrow or maybe she'll be at the Ravelry meet up in the afternoon.

Maybe someone is trying to tell me that I should break down and get a cell phone.....

Until next time

Yours in Yarn,

The Fibreholic

A Stitch in Time

2009-10-14T10:25:00.013-04:00

Just to give you a bit of background, DH and I love garlic. We've even converted the kids...that is if you count putting garlic in everything so the kids just get used to the taste as conversion. So when a co-worker of DH recommended going to the Perth Garlic Festival this past summer, we packed up the kids and made a day of it.

Before arriving at the fairgrounds, I noticed signs for a quilt show. Yeah....two events for the price of one trip. The quilt show was a bonus as I had no idea that it was going on at the same time. After getting four kinds of garlic to plant this fall and seeing all there was to see at the garlic fest we headed to the Lanark County Quilt Guild show, being held at the local high school.

I can't begin to tell you how gorgeous the quilts were. They were true pieces of art. Even DH, who is an artist in his own right, was impressed. He used to think that my quilting was a useful and creative hobby but after seeing the first few quilts, at the show, he now has a different opinion.

Here is a picture of my favorite quilt.

I liked the next quilt and thought that it was the most original.

How about a closer look.....

It was made with the salvage edges from fabric. It is a work of true genius.....using what would normally be thrown away and creating a piece of usable art from it. I could easily gush over this quilt because I thought it was so amazing visually and the idea behind it is just plain brilliant.

I knew that I was going to be impressed with the show overall because of what was parked at the entrance of the school. I just had to show the sock.

The sock was feeling overwhelmed and very self conscious. I will admit I had to stretch the truth a bit when I told the sock that it was just as good and impressive as a quilted car cozy. What else could I do? I didn't want the rest of the day ruined by a sock sobbing because of feelings of inadequacy. Let's face it, no one wants to wear a depressed sock.

I probably didn't help the situation by rushing to my sewing machine the minute I got home instead of continuing to knit.

Until next time

Yours in Yarn,

The Fibreholic

A warm and giggly feeling

2009-10-05T14:05:00.003-04:00

The other day a guy at work tried to sneak up on me.

"You'll have to be sneakier than that. Sorry to say, you're just not that stealthy."

He asked if I have kids and when I replied in the affirmative he tells me that motherhood has probably given me super sonic hearing. Eventually the conversation turned to the ages of my kids.

"My oldest will be 16 at the end of October."

His jaw dropped and I thought, for a moment, that he was going to rupture something. He tells me that he thought I was in my mid twenties. Now it was my turn to have an aneurysm or some kind of coronary. I have never been given such a compliment since.......well......I don't know when. Slightly stunned, I returned to my duties. A few minutes later he came over to me and said that he honestly thought that I was about 25. I get weepy with tears of joy just thinking about it. Just when I thought that I was about to reach the top of the hill, to go over it.....it looks like I slid back down by several years.

So out of all the people at work, who have asked for hand knits....he is at the top of the list!

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

I said..."I DO!"

2009-09-19T19:32:00.003-04:00

This past week I did something important and life changing. This is something that will require much of my time and money. Much of my free time will now be devoted to this.

I'm already married and I already have three kids so it can't be either of those things.

After I committed myself to this, I started to cry, hyperventilate and I wanted to throw up.

This is really starting to sound like my wedding day. But it isn't......

What I did do was sign my life away.

I am now officially a university student. I will spend the next few years taking courses to get the old sheep skin. I realize that it would be easier just to put everything on hold and attend classes full time, but I can't do that. As much as I would like to, my family won't let me set them aside while I pursue my higher education.

So how am I going for the brass ring while I have a DH, three kids, a full time job and all the chores that a family and a house produce? Correspondence courses.

Raise your hand if you think that I'm a masochist.

OKAY, OKAY.........you can all put them down now.

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

A strange chain of events

2009-09-08T11:49:00.004-04:00

Do you remember that I mentioned I work with a bunch of guys?

Even though I do, when one asks me what I did over the weekend I don't make something up to keep them in their comfort zone. No I didn't go to the races, I didn't go to a monster truck rally and I most certainly didn't go to a football watching, beer guzzling and butt scratching athon.

"I went to the Akwasane reserve in New York to buy fabric at the quilt store there"

How girly of a response can I give? I suppose that I could have also told him that I spent the weekend spinning or scrubbing toilets. But let's face it, one of those replies would have been a lie.

His reply??? He tells me that the supervisor's wife is a major quilter and they shop at that store all the time. Later that day I make small talk with the boss and we talk about cross border shopping for quilt fabric.

Now you may be wondering where I am going with this. The funny thing with chains of events, you never know where they are going to take you. If I had told to my co-worker, that I had done nothing all weekend, the following conversation would have never taken place.

Last Wednesday I walked into the office and the boss was there.
"There's a sale on at Akwasane this weekend." I know that he is referring to Dream Crafters. He even phones his wife to verify the dates of the sale. "It's from the 3rd to the 8th"

So on Labour Day,with my Visa and my passport in hand, I got into my car, headed along the 401 to Cornwall and crossed the bridge into New York. From there I headed east towards quilting mecca and a 25% off on fabric, notions, patterns and books sale. Did I also mention that since the store is on the reserve, there are no taxes?

I'm sure you know what happened next (sheepish grin)

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

Does anyone know CPR?

2009-09-01T17:09:00.006-04:00

I'm not an anal person. I can live with imperfections. My standards are not exceedingly high. The proof...just look at my housekeeping abilities. I'm just doing my kids a favour by helping them to boost their immune systems with small doses of germs throughout their childhood.

But how does soap scum in the shower and dog hair on the carpet relate to my knitting? While I can let most things slide......I do have high standards with my socks. My hard and fast rule, when it comes to socks, is that they must be perfectly identical.

So when it came time to finally do something with this sock yarn, I quickly realized that I would have to deal with any sock anxiety and go with the flow. This sock yarn was not going to align magically for me no matter how much I wanted it to.

Big deep breath..... I plunged in head first making sure that both socks were separate throughout the entire knitting time. I didn't need any reminders of what I was doing. Finally they were completed (almost as I still have to weave in the ends).

Much to my surprise, I'm still here. Despite the need for oxygen and the constant heart palpitations, the whole non matching socks experience didn't kill me. I am however, not ready to repeat it again, anytime soon as I wouldn't want to take any chances.

Until next time

Yours in Yarn,

The Fibreholic

At least they can't confiscate these

2009-08-12T14:37:00.005-04:00

I'll admit it...now that I've finally gotten onboard the information highway, IN THE FAST LANE, I'm addicted to YouTube. In my defence, while there are some crazy and wacked out people out there who think that a video of themselves ranting is publish worthy, there are some very usefull things thing on that site.

It has been almost 8 years since 911 and there is still talk of what we can and can't bring on a plane. Can I knit on the plane is the question on every knitter's lips as they plan a trip. Will they allow my teeny tiny sock needles? Will they allow my innocent circulars? Would bamboo or plastic needles be acceptable over metal needles?

Such questions weigh heavily on us but I have the answer. A quick trip around you tube land provided me with a solution. FINGER KNITTING!

you always have your fingers with you
the "I'm paid to rummage through your stuff" people can't take them from you
you always have the correct size of fingers
You can use and weight of yarn
you'll never drop one and be forced to start looking for it in the most cramped space possible (the economy section)
you'll never have to say to the person seated next to you "excuse me, could you look under your seat, I dropped my finger and I think that it rolled your way"

Finger knitting is easy and very fast to learn. My kids have been known to take an odd/partial/scrap ball and finger knit on a car trip. I've even been able to calm the "I'm bored" monster with a ball of yarn. I've even had the strangest conversation with my 8 year old DS as he was rummaging through my sock yarn scraps. He figured that since they were scraps, they were fair game so I had to go into the whole "there are different levels and categories of scraps" speech. He either understood or realized that mom will wig out if he touches the sock yarn. Regardless, materials for my sock yarn blanket are safe once again.

I taught kids how to finger knit and for awhile all three of them were addicted to finger knitting. This is something I embraced, something I encouraged and perhaps I even pushed on them until one day it occured to me:

What am I going to do with all these??????

Until next time

Yours in Yarn,

The Fibreholic

Pardon the Pun

2009-08-07T21:50:00.009-04:00

For the longest time I have been quite envious of Bells' garden. In fact, I am green with envy. So this year I decided not to sit around bemoaning the fact that even with all my property, I don't have a decent veggie garden.

DH put up the fencing and helped with the digging. I even had 2/3 of the kids help with the planting of some seeds. The garden area is a work in progress and I hope to have the entire area worked and planted next year.

The first thing I planted were Roma tomatoes. I never expected them to grow so out of control otherwise I would not have planted the squash with them. Yes I know, it looks more like a tomato hedge rather than a group of individual plants.

Here are my zukes, cukes and more tomatoes.

I am pleased with how my beans are progressing. Even my jalapeno peppers are going well despite the cooler summer temperatures we've been having.

Today I harvested my garlic. Last year we were given a head of Spanish and Russian garlic by a co-worker of DH. When asked how we liked them he had to confess that instead of eating them, I planted the cloves. They did quite well but the only problem is that I can't remember which type is which. I've got to remember row markers for next year!!!!!

I once read a quote by an anonymous author "God created rainy days so that gardeners could get their housework done" Obviously this person was not a knitter otherwise they would know that even with rain we still have nicer things to occupy our time with than housework. Good thing that it has been a wet summer other wise I'd never get any knitting time.

Until next time

Yours in Yarn,

The Fibreholic

Wanted: A Life

2009-07-25T09:59:00.004-04:00

It isn't just me, I think my whole family needs a life. I think this because I doubt if their reaction was motivated by a good blog post for me.

TURTLES:

"Spring is here and once again, turtles are emerging from their winter hibernation. Many of the slow moving critters will attempt the extremely hazardous trek across roads and highways in search of food and nesting sites. Unfortunately, a turtle’s thin shell is no match for motor vehicles. Highway fatalities are devastating for turtle populations. In Ontario, we are lucky to have all eight of Canada’s native turtle species. Sadly, seven of these species (the Spotted, Wood, Blanding’s, Eastern Spiny Softshell, Common Musk Common Map and Snapping Turtles) have been classified by provincial and national authorities, as endangered, threatened or of special concern. The good news is that there are now 700 turtle crossing signs installed on highways throughout Ontario, thanks to the dedication and efforts of Turtle S.H.E.L.L Tortue (a registered charitable organization). You, as caring citizens, can help by paying close attention to the road and shoulders in these designated turtle crossing areas and near any water-bordering areas from April to September."

The above is an excerpt from a post by this organization. http://www.turtleshelltortue.org/

With that being said (or written) let me continue on with my lack of life story. I was getting dressed for work the other day when I looked out the window.

Me: Hey there's a turtle on our lawn, quick go get the camera!

The whole family rushed out to see the turtle. DH had the camera and took several shots. Seriously, I have never seen four people move that fast. I doubt that they could move that fast if the house was on fire.

Yup, I definitely need some excitement in my life!

Until next time

Yours in Yarn,

The Fibreholic

No more smoke signals

2009-07-07T06:06:00.004-04:00

This is a tale of two companies.
A few weeks ago ,DH decided that enough was enough. Dial Up was too slow and we kept getting disconnected after 10 minutes of activity. This is no tconducive to web surfing/downloading by any stretch of the imagination.

There are very few Internet companies servicing my area (aka the boonies) so there is little to choose from. The one company we did decide upon has two install contractors and this is where my story begins:

Installer number one was rather eager to make an appointment.
"Are you sure no one will be home on Monday?"
"Yes I'm sure"
"What about Tuesday?"
"Same thing....."
He shows up on Wednesday, because I'm not working that day and he has no other choice to accept this. After standing on my roof twice and calling to see if the nearest tower is undergoing some unscheduled maintenance, he tells me that the very tall trees surrounding my property are interfering and he can't even get a bar. He tells me that he'll put my name on the list if a much closer tower becomes available. He leaves with $30 of my money.

With head hung low, I shuffle back to my Neanderthal cave to once again send the equivalent of smoke signal emails.

DH is determined in his need for speed and, when he gets home, calls our neighbour to find out how she got high speed with the same Internet company. Answer: she used installer company number two.

Company number two asks questions when we make the appointment. They want to know they layout of our property and surrounding area, do we have tall trees....etc. All things that would affect us getting a signal.

The appointment is made. This time two guys show up and they bring an extender with them. They test the signal from the top of our antenna: two bars. They go up even higher: Five bars.

Moral of the story. High speed Internet is a wonderful thing, but people who know what they are doing are priceless.

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

Bust a Stash

2009-06-23T07:13:00.005-04:00

If you have ever wondered "how do I use up all those odd balls in my stash or how do I get rid of all my stash so that I can start over"......I have the solution for you.

Rachel John....EXTEREME KNITTING

I'm of two minds about this. Part of me says that this woman is a genius and that I should just leave it at that, the other half wants to knit my own mattress. I almost regret giving away all those odd balls.

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

Flashing my needles at the public

2009-06-15T07:40:00.014-04:00

Me: This Saturday I'm going downtown to a Knit in Public event.
Teen: Why? You knit in public every day.

She does have a point but off I went to Majors Hill Park with chair and sock yarn blanket in tow. I met up with a group of ladies and had a great number of laughs. This is a picture of my view from my knitting spot under the shade of a tree.

We have a number of Gothic style buildings in Ottawa which equals lots of opportunity for sock mojo. This is the back of the Connaught Building.

While I am content to knit in the seclusion, of my corner of the world, it did make me realize that I miss a regular knitting group.

However, driving for an hour, to get together with a knitting group seems like an awful waste of valuable knitting time. What a conundrum! I need to find something local.....

But this does bring to mind the fact about how much I knit at work. I told you all that I babysit a building but I didn't mention that there are people in this building who walk by me and see me knitting. Lately some of them are calling out numbers....."7 1/2, 9, 9 1/2, 11" they sound suspiciously like shoe sizes. I think these people want socks. HAH!!!! I'll put it on my TO DO list just before the large man's sweater and the car cozy I've been asked for by these people.

A co-worker once gave me the "I can buy socks for next to nothing at Wal-Mart" spiel. (The nerve!!!!)
My reply? "That's because no one likes you enough to give you hand knit socks"

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

Out of the Closet

2009-06-03T14:21:00.003-04:00

You know that you've hit a new low when the only place, in your house, that your kids don't try to follow you, is your closet.

I hit that low last weekend and ended up in my walk-in closet. I learnt a few things while I was in there:

walk-in closets hold a lot of stuff.
I put a lot of stuff in my closet.

So while I was in there, hiding, I decided to tidy up a bit. I discovered that:

my closet really holds a lot of stuff.
if I organize some things and get rid of others, my closet will hold more stuff.
if I organize it all and find other places for some things I will actually have a nice place to sit and knit as I cower and hide from my children during the summer holidays.

In my initial survey of this hidden hideaway I discovered this:

It is a hexagon from the Mountain Laurel Crib Counterpane. It's been a UFO since I bought the yarn almost six years ago. I knew that my friend was going to have another baby so I wanted to knit something special. Since time flies when you have so many projects on the go......let's just say.......that baby will be 5 years old this August. (Stop laughing.....all of you)

This project really deserves to see the light of day so I'm determined to finish it.....(I mean it, stop laughing). Wish me luck!

Until next time

Yours in Yarn,

The Fibreholic

Shifting from Cheek to Cheek

2009-05-26T14:49:00.013-04:00

Yesterday I bought a torture device.

Yes, I willing went to the store and bought something that was designed to inflict pain upon its users. Or maybe this thing is completely harmless and has been possessed by the demon of agony and sore muscles.

I'm sure that it has nothing to do with the fact that I have not gone near one in over a decade. NAW!!!!! can't be it at all. It's got to do with an old gypsy curse dealing with torment. Or maybe a witch doctor put a spell on it to cause untold suffering to the users. Yes that must be it!

In any case, here's a picture of the guilty party:

Its only saving grace is the fact that it is attached to this:

So until my underside toughens up, while sitting down, I'll just shift from cheek to cheek, as I try to get comfortable.

Until next time

Yours in Yarn,

The Fibreholic

Have Sheep, must Travel

2009-05-18T09:15:00.007-04:00

Me: Woolworth what are you doing in my suitcase?
WW: I bought a book.

Me: OK, but what are you doing in my suitcase?

WW: I bought a book!

Me: I understand, you bought a book. But why did you get my suitcase out and why are you sitting in it?

WW: I have to go see Denise.

Me: Denise?

WW: I want her to sign my book.

Me:(clarity has come upon me) Oh I see. You do know that Denise lives very far away.

WW: That's okay. I have to ask her something very important.

Me: Why don't you ask me, it would save you a very long journey.

WW: No, it's something that I can only ask her.

Me: OK, but you'll have to wait a bit before I can get you and the book to her for the question and the signing.

WW: I can wait.

Me: I'm glad that you are showing such patience.

WW: So next week then?

Me: Not next week or even next month.

WW: So when?

Me: Before you know it.

WW: When is that?

Me: Forget what I said about you having patience. Why are you so anxious to meet Denise?

WW: Denise? I don't want to meet Denise. I want her to introduce me to LuLu.

Me: Lulu? This has just been about meeting Lulu?

WW: Yup.

Me: Figures!

Until next time

Yours in Yarn,

The Fibreholic

I wanna Real Man

2009-04-28T18:58:00.006-04:00

Since the guy who works opposite shifts from me will come into work and 90% of the time will find me knitting, he decided that he would treat me to a knitting video. He found Real Men Knit on DVD at the local library last weekend and brought it to work for me to watch on my next shift.

While I don't want to give this production two thumbs down, I felt that it lacked in a few places. Any topic that was discussed was only briefly mentioned. I was hoping for something with a bit more meat of the matter. The movie talked briefly about how, historically hand knitting was a male dominated occupation. That is, until the knitting machine made hand knitting no longer financial feasible so the task was handed off to women. (Sounds familiar!!!)

Kaffe Fassett, Brandon Mably and and host of average Joes were interviewed. It turns out that both men and myself knit for the same reasons: texture, colour, to alleviate boredom, stress relief, to make something for a loved one, because it's fun...... These are all reasons (plus several more) why I pick up the sticks and string.

From Jocks to stressed out tech geeks and everyone in between were featured on this video.

Now before I go any further, I want to make it perfectly clear that I know knitters come in all shapes and sizes and have a wide assortment of appearances from formal to very casual. A few of the knitting guys were visibly pierced and I don't have a problem with that, at all (honestly).

However...........watching a guy stick a cable needle through the piercing in his nose (because that's where you can keep it so it doesn't get lost) and then hold the tip of it in his mouth is something no one should have to see.

But I digress.....

Knitting is a craft that is so versatile that it can appeal to every different type of person. What I love about knitting could be different for someone else, but it doesn't matter. I get excited about cables and they might drive the person next to me to the frog pond. I can't stand knitting mittens and someone else could live for making them. It's all wonderful as there is room in this craft for everything and everyone.

So to use a South African saying from Brandon Mably.....when it comes to knitting "what lifts your skirts?"

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

I Have a Problem

2009-04-14T13:41:00.007-04:00

I like to knit socks.....that's not my problem!
I like to travel.....that's not my problem!
I like to buy sock yarn when I travel as a type of souvenir.....that's not my problem!

Here is the sock yarn that I've purchase during the last three trips.

Not a lot but so far I've only knit 2 pairs of socks from my small collection of souvenir sock stash.

Maybe it has something to do with this:

Or maybe it has something to do with this:

Yeah I think that it has something to do with my entire collection of regular stash sock yarn (there's enough for 43 pairs of socks in this picture). I tried to give full disclosure but found that 6 balls of sock yarn did not make it into the picture nor did the 7 skeins of bare sock yarn from Knit Picks.

I'm a weak woman with a problem. I enter a yarn store/wool shop and head straight for the sock yarn section. I stand amazed at all the beautiful colours. I touch, fondle and caress, then I am hooked and I can't leave the store without at least one ball or skein. Even with all the sock yarn at my finger tips I can't wait until my next fix. Eventually the urge will be so strong and I won't be able to control myself. I'll have to find a way to satisfy this urge growing deep inside and the only way to do that is to add to the stash......

I'm a Fibreholic and sock yarn is my drug of choice. I make no apologises but I think that I'll have to divide the stash again and hide it all before DH gets home tonight......just in case!!!!

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

I should have known

2009-04-01T07:59:00.006-04:00

Sigh....there is a lot of effort going into this. Probably much more then she'll ever realize, but it was inevitable. Once the blanket started to take shape she saw the possibility and potential of this thing. She became enamored and declared the blanket hers. I don't blame her though, if I were my teen, I'd probably do the same.

On the recommendation of Taph, I've decided not to publicly beg for leftovers of sock yarn. However being the ....ahem....the collector.....of sock yarn that I am, I'll never lack materials for this blanket. When you have your own stash that you are trying to control there is no need to add to the chaos with the help of other. I am doing a good job of it all on my own.

As with many mother/daughter relationships we have discovered that we are at an impasse in our opinion of the construction of this blanket. I see a great sock yarn and think about the wonderful socks. She sees the same yarn and wants it to go immediately into the blanket. She not quite there yet on the concept of leftovers yet...that....and patience. Since I am the one knitting this project, she has realized that she must resign herself to waiting for the finished product for however long it takes. It's a life lesson that she's not too thrilled about.

So without further ado, here is an update of my mitered square, leftover sock yarn blanket.

Until next time

Yours in Yarn,

The Fibreholic

On the Road to Rhinebeck

2009-03-25T15:29:00.007-04:00

I've made a decision.

Many of you will not be surprised, in the least, by this decision.

It is in no way life altering or the answer to world peace.

I've decided, that each year, I should take some kind of yarn/knitting/stash enhancement trip.

This year's S.E.X.(y) trip is none other than a visit to New York's famous wool and sheep festival in Rhinebeck.Ever since I've moved to the area, I've been wanting to go, so the trip has been on my TO DO list for some time. When Mad Mad wrote about her trip to Rhinebeck last year, I knew that it was time to go.

Now for me, planning a trip is actually part of the fun of actually going on the trip. So the earlier I get to plan and the more I get to plan, the more fun I'll have with my pre-trip. Please don't get me wrong, when I eventually go to a place I've been known to throw out the planning/schedule out the window and follow my nose to the great unknown. I've seen some neat things and encountered some amazing people this way.

For the Dutchess County Sheep and Wool Festival, there is little to plan out. Show up and take in all there is to offer: book signings, fleece auction, livestock show etc.....and lots of shopping!!!! But there were a few things that I had to consider: how to get there and where to stay. Rhinebeck is several hours away and I didn't want to waste all that valuable knitting time by driving myself there. Also since people didn't start to discuss sharing rides to Rhinebeck, on Ravelry, until the beginning of September, I didn't want to wait until then to firm up any plans.

In February, I attended the local Spin-In and wouldn't you know it, my answer was there. A member of a spinning guild from NY was there trying to get additional people to sign up for their bus trip to Rhinebeck. I jumped on the offer faster than you can say "cashmere is my friend". The group has also booked a block of rooms in a nearby motel so I was able to get a reduced rate as well.

Since that trip is nicely wrapped up with a ribbon and a tag that says TO: The Fibreholic, I tried to sneak in a second S.E.X.(y) trip. DH wants to go away for a weekend, for our 20th anniversary. Yes, Virginia, I have been married for almost 20 years. Well, it just so happens that the Sock Summit is happening around that time....heh heh heh.

Sigh....DH caught on and has put his foot down and has declared that we are not going anywhere near Oregon during that time. There was something about how the trip was supposed to be about us and spending time together. ARRRGGGGHHH how that man can be unreasonable!!!!!! I'll just have to make sure that the route we take, to where ever we go has yarny/wooly type shops along the way.

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

Here, there be sick people....

2009-03-20T10:55:00.003-04:00

I've had and interesting few days.....too say the least.

On Wednesday I woke up feeling out of sorts but figured that it would eventually pass. When I got to work the feeling escalated into pain. I managed to hang on for a few hours but eventually, I had to call it quits. There is nothing like working with a bunch of guys and telling them that your pain is located in your ''female'' parts.

I called DH at work and he came immediately as he works only a short express bus ride from where I work. Off to the hospital we go. After a three hour wait I'm in an emerg room with a doctor who examines me. As he leaves the room, to order x-rays, he tells me that I won't get anything to eat or drink in case they need to operate. At this point he suspects that it's my appendix.

Off to the x-ray....one nurse wheels me off to imaging and leaves. An orderly wheels in an elderly man and parks him right in front of me. I don't want to be rude and have this man think that I am starring at him, so I lower my eyes. EEEEEWWWWW is that what I think it is? I'm now starring at his urine collection bag. This is gross on just so many levels. I do the only thing I can, I turn my wheelchair around so I'm looking down the hallway.

When I get my x-ray, I realize that I've sunk to a new low. The first two require me to stand up. There on the display is my name, my ID number, the fact that I'm female and my age (and not the one that I tell everybody that I am...the real one). I am currently in a hospital gown and my back side is exposed. I am experiencing humiliation from the front and the back.

I return to my emerg room where the doctor tells me that nothing on the x-rays can explain my pain but that he would do something to help me manage the pain. At this point I am on IV so in goes the gravol then the morphine......1....2....3.....4....5......WHOA!!!!!! that stuff works fast. DH is with me and enjoying the fact that I am now stoned out of my mind.

The doctor returns and this time he brings reinforcements.....the surgeon, who after poking and prodding me so much that I want to clock him because IT STILL HURTS, decides that it's not worth it to open me....yet. The doctor returns to tell me that he would like me to stay overnight. I'm still high and still in pain, so I agree. However the pain stops a few hours later and I ask to go home. Let's face it, watching an old guy walk back and forth in the hallway, in his pyjamas, is not my idea of entertainment.

My family doctor, a cautious man, enters the scene, scares DH with all the things that could happen to me still, in the middle of the night so that is why I should stay. I sent DH home with a list of things I need and get the doctor to allow me something to drink. He puts a midnight deadline on the liquids and I'm in a real room.

The next morning I get an ultrasound. This tells the doctor what all the fuss was about the day before. His best guess was an ovarian cyst bursting.

So what have I learnt from this experience? While I found the sensation of being stoned on morphine unique, I am in no hurry to repeat it, as it made knitting virtually impossible.

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

Adventures in Babysitting

2009-03-12T09:26:00.005-04:00

There are tonnes of perks to my babysitting job. Babysitting a building that is....

First of all buildings don't :

cry in the middle of the night
need diaper changing
insist that you take them to the park for the 50th time where you have to pretend to enjoy yourself
turn their noses up at a meal you just made even though last week it was their favorite
talk back to you
fight with a sibling
start running away when, you tell them, that its time to go home so you are forced to chase, with a younger sibling in tow, while everyone around you is laughing because they are all thinking..."better her than me"

For the most part, buildings sit quietly minding their P's and Q's. But best of all, many times they are open 24/7, so the majority of the time I am babysitting during silent hours when this building contains only a handful of people.

Do you have any idea how much knitting you can get done during a 12 hour shift? I even bought myself a laptop with a DVD player to watch movies while I'm at work.

This is me getting ready for a silent hour shift.....uniform?...check.....food?...check.....book to read?...check...movies to watch?...check...knitting project?...CHECK.....

There is a downside, believe it or not. Now that I'm earning more money than I've done in a LONG time, my yarn budget has grown considerably. While on the surface, this may not appear to be a problem, it is in fact, a big problem. I can buy yarn much quicker than I can knit so eventually my stash may overwhelm me or worse....DH will notice it.

I'm off to find more hiding places......

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

Head over Heels

2009-03-03T14:18:00.009-05:00

I'm in love and that is all there is to it. At first I wasn't but then....little by little my resolve was broken down and now I am head over heels in love. But before I go any further let me remind you of this journey I've taken to get to this point off utter romantic bliss.

At first there was the brilliant colour change.
I was smitten but then I realized I was in way over my head and I backed off.

I decided to try again....something was pulling me back....I had an irresistible urge to try again.

But not even the thought of a sock held my heart for very long. Soon my attentions were elsewhere and I decided that it really wasn't love after all....merely something similar to adolescent infatuation.

I put the project on the shelf and promptly forgot about it. I'm only human and there is so much out there to catch my eye and seize my knitting senses. This yarn, however, was not ready to go down without a fight and be so easily put aside like some bad date. Eventually this poor lonely yarn cried out to me in such agony begging for another chance that I couldn't say no. This merino/silk blend tugged on my heart strings and I couldn't help myself.

I was hooked from the moment I started the stitch pattern. Such passion I now had for this sock yarn that I couldn't help myself. I worked exclusively on these socks and soon this yarn was what it was always meant to be....

My heart is yours....forever and ever......sigh.....so this is what true love feel like. Ahhhhh such peaceful contentment.

But wait a minute....what are these that have just fallen off my needles??? My..... aren't they lovely??? What do they call you???? Monkey Socks????? What a lovely name. If I may....could I just please slip my feet into you, even if only for a moment?

I should probably feel bad or guilty for this sock infidelity.....but I don't.....life is too short for such things and you should see the socks I have on the go right now.

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

Shake...Rattle...and ROLL!!!

2009-02-26T12:55:00.006-05:00

I know that it's just a car and that my only concern should be thankfulness that DH was alone in the car and that he was not injured.

But I really liked that car.

The problem is...we are now down to one vehicle until the check arrives from the insurance company AND there is an annual sale at a yarn store in Ottawa plus a closing out sale at another place. AND I CAN'T GET TO EITHER OF THEM!!!!!

YES!!! I'm pouting....
Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

Return from Obscurity

2009-02-21T08:31:00.009-05:00

Where have you been Fibreholic?

Yes I'm sure that question has been on the hearts and minds of all discerning blog readers for the past little while.

I've gone into the realm of security work.....something I've done in a past life.....and it's been rather time consuming. Let us not forget that the training had me up at 5:30...that's 5:30 AM....something I'm not used to because I've discovered that 5:30 AM actually comes at 5:30 AM and not somewhere around noon.

And now I'm rushing this blog post as I've been called in for 2 twelve hour shifts this weekend.

Good news though......I'm going to get a lot of knitting done :)

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fiberholic

Ch....Ch....Changes

2009-01-31T09:04:00.002-05:00

Change.....it's something that I look forward to but it also somewhat scares me. So I embrace change knowing that if I face a new challenge head on, if nothing else, life will be....interesting.

Did I tell you that I recently gave my notice at work? Didn't think so. I'll bet that I didn't tell you that this past Wednesday was my last day either. Looks like I'm keeping all of you in the dark.

So in order to keep you up to date.....Next Tuesday, I start training for my new job. I say this with the confidence of being told, by several people, that when I pass the training, I'll start to work right away. As this is not full disclosure time, mums the word, until I pass this thing and they put me somewhere. But I'm crossing my fingers that they give me a shift where I can sit on my butt the entire time and knit......yeah I know......it's probably too good to be true.

But my employment is not the only area of my life to get affected by change. I am halfway through the second sock that I am knitting with the ginormous 2.5mm needles. But fear not, I have not abandoned my beloved 2mm DPNs as I'm going to return to them immediately after finishing these socks.

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

Widow Women

2009-01-16T12:41:00.006-05:00

There are many reasons why women lose their husbands. These reasons include, but are not limited to:

Other women
Playing Sports
Watching Sports
Gambling
Drugs
Forgetting your birthday three years in a row so you've killed him and buried the body, on a moonless night, in the garden, behind the house.

Oops.....I digress...that and this is no Alfred Hitchcock movie.

I have lost my husband!!!!!

I have lost him to Rockband guitar solos.

I am a Wii widow.

I should have known that when he suggested buying it, this past Christmas, for the kids, he was including himself.

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

It all started with the word SALE

2009-01-08T13:32:00.003-05:00

There I was minding my own business, on Boxing Day, visiting the Ravelry site. I was trying to catch up on the latest goings on in the groups that I follow. I wasn't even thinking about adding to my stash, (Stop laughing!) when what did I see? SALE at Knit-Knackers

Me: OH!!!! how interesting, maybe I'll just pop on over to their site and see what all the fuss is about.

(Seriously, stop laughing)

At the Knit-Knackers web site all I can see is 50% off.

After I deal with my heart palpitations, I look to see when the sale is happening. It starts on December 27th so I haven't missed it and I could get there on the first day of the sale, before all the good stuff is gone.

*****The Next Morning********

I'm lying in bed having a philosophical discussion with myself about actually going to this yarn sale. I really don't need to spend any more money and I really don't need any more yarn.

(You in the back....if you don't stop laughing, I'll have to ask you to leave)

Me: Dear, there's a sale on at Knit-Knackers and I'm trying to find a reason to go.

DH: Well if we both go into Ottawa, I could drive and you could knit on the way.

More heart palpitations.....Have I married a closet enabler? Where has this part of his personality been all these years?

DH: I could also get that game that I didn't get for Christmas.

Okay, so he's an enabler with a motivation...but an enabler none the less. This is probably a temporary phase so I shouldn't get used to it.

After 50 minutes of car knitting time, DH dropped me off and went on his way. I dove in, head first, into the massive piles of yarny goodness. It was nothing short of a fondle fest and my heart goes out to any one who couldn't make it to the sale. The kids weren't with me on the trip so you can only imagine how I was enjoying this ME time.

I worked at the selection process as quickly as I could knowing that DH would return any minute. This is my boxing day booty.

DH arrived just as Sarita was adding up my purchases and he saw everything that I bought. So what did he say?

DH: Now I don't feel so guilty about spending all that money on a game.

I think that he slipped on the ice and fell and hit his head. But I wasn't about to argue when I had that much yarny goodness in my clutches.

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

Punishment for a Bad Blogger

2009-01-01T16:32:00.003-05:00

Yup....I'm a bad blogger.

I wish that I could say that I've been keeping up with every one's blog and just not commenting. Sigh....but I can't even say that.

I wish that I could blame it on one single thing like having dial up or working long hours during the holiday rush. But that wouldn't be entirely correct.......

I wish that I could blame it on being such a good mother that I've been spending all my time with the kids and baking cookies. That didn't happen.....

I wish that I could blame it on going here and there and to every fab place and attending wildly exciting holiday parties. HAH....don't make me laugh.

If the blame lies anywhere, it's probably in the socks that I decided to knit for Christmas. So while I'm pre-occupied with all the holiday happenings, I was able to squeeze in 4 pairs of socks. Yeah for me! Three of them were made from my stash! Double yeah for me!

So what do I do to punish myself? What could I possibly do to make up for ignoring friends both near and far? What could I do to that would make sure that I would never again put my blogging aside for other less worthy diversions?

Hmmmm I could promise to make the teen's boyfriend, of three months, a pair of socks.

He's got size 13 feet.

That would be punishment enough for any knitter!!!

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

The end of innocence

2008-12-15T19:07:00.004-05:00

DS (who is 7): Mom is the tooth fairy real?
ME: HUH?
DS: Taylor was looking through her mother's jewelry box and found her baby teeth. So is the tooth fairy real?

Please note that this conversation happened far too early in the day for me and he was about to catch the school bus. So, what is a good parent suppose to do? Change the subject!

ME: What was Taylor doing looking through her mother's jewelry box anyways? I bet that she wasn't suppose to be. I'd better not find you snooping around in my things. There would be BIG trouble if you did.

DS: Well....is the tooth fairy real or not?

SHOOT!!!! This boy is not as easily distracted as his sisters.

ME: What do you think?

DS: I think that she's not real.

ME: Well....you're right, she's not real.

*********Later that day, at the supper table************

DS: If the tooth fairy isn't real, does that mean that Santa and the Easter Bunny aren't real either.

ME: No dear, they aren't

DS: But who is?

DD (aka the teen): I'm the Easter Bunny, I make up the scavenger hunt notes.

DH: I'm Santa and I write the tooth fairy notes.

DS (to me): What do you do?

ME: I buy the stuff you get.

Now that is over and done with, my baby is growing up before my eyes.

DH: Now that you know the truth, I don't want you to ruin it for any of your friends who might still believe...OKAY????

DS: Okay

***************The next day***********************

DS: Don't be mad but I forgot that I wasn't suppose to tell anyone about Santa not being real.

ME: Grrrrrr

DS: Don't worry, they didn't believe me!

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

Here there be knitting

2008-12-02T12:05:00.004-05:00

Last Fall I had the ever so brilliant idea to knit socks as Christmas gifts this year. I started with my sister but unfortunately I kept going of the feet until they fit me.

I'm sure that there must be something Freudian in there somewhere.

A couple of weeks ago (maybe three...possibly four) I decided to try again. This time I stopped the foot in time.

Going from left to right:
1) For my sister
2) For my sister-in law
3) For my brother (in progress but I'm on the foot of both socks for him)
Brownie Points for me....Two of these socks came from stash sock yarn.The third needed to be purchased as I'm not in the habit of stashing anything gray.

I just might be able to pull this off!!!

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

In Praise of Plavala

2008-11-18T14:29:00.008-05:00

This is The Diva Plavalaguna, she is a character from the movie The Fifth Element by Luc Bisson.

This is Plava laguna, it seems to be a chain of high end resorts in Croatia. Plava Laguna means Blue Lagoon. This is actually just one of the many hotels and resorts, in the chain.

This is my Plavalaguna. She is a 3 1/2 month old ruby-eyed white English Angora. Last weekend I brought her to her first show. The competition was fierce but my little beauty hopped away with two 1st place wins. She needs only one more win to get, as a senior (over the 6 month age mark), and then she'll become a Grand Champion.
I'm so proud of her...that and think of all the fibre I'll get off her when she is finished her days as a beauty queen.

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

Dust, Doghair and Dirt

2008-11-14T15:44:00.006-05:00

Cleaning is all my life seems to be comprised of at this moment. I continually ask myself why and isn't there more to life than this. Surely there must be some reason for this never ending cycle of the house getting dirty and me having to clean it.

Perhaps it's to achieve some higher plane of existence? Perhaps I will discover the meaning of life as I clean while I'm being undervalued, unaided and unappreciated by my family? Perhaps I will uncover the great secrets of life, the universe and everything else as I attempt to remove this triple threat from my very existence?

I'll let you know after I clean up these bottles that came the other day and are cluttering up my kitchen counter.

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

I'm going slightly Mad

2008-10-31T11:59:00.007-04:00

I can't blame Ravelry!
I can't blame the Yarn Harlot!
I can't even blame it on Shelley Kang!
I place the blame, in its entirety, on Emily.

There I was, minding my own business, when Emily began to knit a mitered square, using leftover sock yarn. She informed me that once a million of these were done, she would then sew them together for an afghan.

Now speaking as someone who claims to have invented the crazy sock, I have to ask myself....Why didn't I think of this first? Could it be that I'm a little too obsessed with socks? But really...is that such a bad thing? I've been told that occasionally I'm a perfectly normal individual, but I think that the jury is still out on that one.

Here is proof of my decent into Madness!

I realize that I've only just begun this project, but I've already come to the conclusion that I have to:

A) buy more sock yarn

or

B) hold some type of contest thing. I would ask everyone for donations of their leftover sock yarn. Everyone who sent/gave me some would then have their name go into a draw for a full skein of some very yummy sock yarn.

I'll let you know what happens.

And if you're wondering.....and even if you're not........the mitered square, currently on the needles, I have a pair of socks made with that sock yarn. It is another random dye job. The teen called the colour "vomit" and wanted nothing to do with it.

That is until I knit up a pair of socks with the yarn.....NOW she wants them.

But who can blame her......they're gorgeous. Now before any of you choke on that last statement, I do put these socks in the "only a mother could love" category. So I don't want any comments about how my ugly socks have somehow offended the stylish sense of colour among the fibre arts community. Considering some of the stupid things that the Canadian government has paid big bucks for because someone called it art, my socks are the least of your worries.

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

Has any one seen my free time?

2008-10-18T09:28:00.003-04:00

Hi everyone

Yes it's me, the Fibreholic. I know it's been awhile and I know that my postings have been very sporadic as of late. But I do have a very good excuse.

There I was at the end of July, minding my own business, ~~playing video games~~ doing something very important when the teen tells me that there is a message on the phone. Since she wants to log back on I need to listen to the message to get the dial tone back. (Yes the Fibreholic is still living in the dark ages and has to put up with dial up)

Long story short, because you all know that I don't like to go on and on and drag out a story to its bitter end, I've been working full time for almost three months. I won't go into the gory details of this job, but it will do until I get a full time position traveling the world as a writer for the Lonely Planet publications.

So in the meantime, I now have the money to buy the fibre I want BUT I now lack the free time, I used to have, to enjoy it. So if anyone reading this, has any spare free time they don't know what to do with...just send it my way....PLEASE!

THE SOCK PATTERN

It seems that there was an interest in the pattern I used for my free sock yarn. So here it is:

The stitch pattern requires a multiple of 4 stitches.

Round 1, 3 and 5 - Knit
Round 2 and 4 - *K1, slip 3 with yarn in front (holding yarn loosely) repeat from *
Round 6 - *K2, insert needle under the long loose strands of 2 previous rounds and knit the next stitch, K3; repeat from * end K1 instead of K3.

NOW YOU WILL HAVE TO FUDGE A BIT AND SLIDE THE STITCHES AT THE BEGINNING OF THE ROUND OVER A BIT. Before Starting round 8 slide the first 2 stitches of the round over to the right hand needle and start the round.

Round 7, 9 AND 11- Knit
Round 8 and 10 - *K1, slip 3 with yarn in front (holding yarn loosely) repeat from *

Round 12 - *K2, insert needle under the long loose strands of 2 previous rounds and knit the next stitch, K3; repeat from * end K1 instead of K3.

REMEMBER THOSE 2 STITCHES YOU PUT ON THE RIGHT HAND NEEDLE? SLIDE THEM BACK TO THE LEFT HAND NEEDLE AND START ROUND 1.

This stitch pattern was developed for flat knitting. This is why I have you moving over the beginning of the round in the stitch pattern.

So is this clear as mud???? Feel free to e-mail me if you have any questions.

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

For Anna

2008-10-09T08:16:00.002-04:00

Just more proof that Canadians aren't evil! (Just to confirm for everyone else reading this post, yes it is an inside joke)

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

The Trial of TOFUtsies

2008-09-26T07:46:00.008-04:00

The Trial
Enter the defendant, TOFUtsies by SWTC.

I bought this yarn in January '07 and about the April time frame, of that year, I knit a pair of plain toe up socks. The first time I washed them, disaster struck. The dye washed out and my vibrant socks were merely a shadow of their former selves. I was devastated, ladies and gentleman, simply devastated. Here I had put all this work into my socks and with one wash they went from Beautiful to Blah.

I wrote to SWTC (attorney for the defendant) told them what happened, gave them the info on the ball band but received no reply. The socks were left to defend themselves on their own without representation from the company.

THE VERDICT

I vowed to never buy another ball of TOFUtsies and told the requisite 12 people of my bad experience but while I was at STITCHES MIDWEST this past August I met Audrey, public defender for this yarn.

THE APPEAL

After dropping off a load of yarn into the car, Kathy and I returned to the vendors' area to continue shopping. Kathy likes TOFUtsies and stopped at a booth to purchase a ball. This is where I met Audrey, owner of Needles & Knobs. I complained about this yarn and told her the story of my ill fated socks and why I have a hate-on for this yarn and the company.

Audrey was determined to get me to change my mind, to rethink my position and to exonerate this sock yarn. She believes in this yarn so much that she gave me a ball to try out.

I was leery and doubtful but who am I to turn down a free ball of sock yarn. I knit and knit and knit. I even designed a sock pattern for this momentous occasion. Mind you all the while thinking that if history repeated itself I would be severely ticked at myself for putting in all this effort.

THE VERDICT

The socks have been washed and they look great. My faith has been restored in TOFUtsies but SWTC still on my black list for their lack of customer service.

So if you are ever in St. Petersburg, Florida go see Audrey at Needles & Knobs. You'll be glad you did!

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

The seven rules of yarn acquisition

2008-09-13T09:55:00.011-04:00

Make your yarn purchases while on vacation. You'll be able to justify them as souvenirs.
Even better, while on vacation, without your DH. If he must come along, distract him with a computer store or food.
Use cash whenever possible, it eliminates the paper trail.
When packing for the holiday, pack only the essentials to leave as much room in your suitcase, as you can, for the trip home.
When packing for the trip home, layer your suitcase. Yarn goes on the bottom, then clothes with the gifts for the kiddies on top.
Distract family with gifts and bring suitcase to your room.
Unpack the next day, when no one is around.

50/50 Alpaca/Merino bought from WEBS

one ball of 3ply fingering that I won, three skeins of Noro Transitions that were so cheap, you'd think they were stolen

A full bag of Ella rae bought from a place that was selling their yarn in full bags. In their booth they had a fenced off area and had it piled high with the full bags. According to one staff member, a lady actually jumped into the pile and wallowed amongst the fibres. They weren't pleased as she destroyed many labels. some people have no respect.

Of course there was sock yarn purchases. According to Tink, this doesn't count at all for stash. I did get another ball of sock yarn, but there is a story behind that which deserves its own blog post.

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

Humour in the most unlikely of places

2008-09-09T17:39:00.005-04:00

Guess what DH's name is.......and you'll find this as funny as I do.

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

You did.....WHAT???

2008-09-01T09:21:00.006-04:00

ME: I've been invited to go to Chicago for STITCHES MIDWEST and stay at a complete stranger's house.

General response: WHAT??? Are you crazy? You don't know anything about this person. This person could be a serial killer. Your children need their mother.

Complete Stranger: I've met someone on the Internet and invited her to come to STITCHES and stay at our house .

General response: WHAT??? You did what??? You don't know anything about this person. She could be a crazy homicidal maniac.

You get the picture. From both camps we had people looking for ways to lock us up for our own protection for clearly we had lost it and gone loopy with this hair brained plan.

Funny thing is, the only person who didn't say anything about this plan was my DH. He may have thought it, but did not say word regarding the state of my sanity.

Thursday the 21st, the sock and I headed off to Chicago for our latest adventure. Kathy met me at the airport and we headed off to her place for lunch. On our way we told each other of the secret plots to have us committed because of the plan.

Kathy( after lunch): Look, all kinds of knives lying around and no one got stabbed.

A STITCHES event.

It's hard to describe. Maybe this is the place that good knitters go when they die. Aisle after aisle of yarn, needles, books and knitting gadgets, it was enough to make even the hardest hearted knitter cry. There was even an underlying scent of vinegar from all the hand dyed skeins. More than once Kathy caught me smelling skeins of wool.

I did my best to purchase only the yarns that are not locally available. However when you find Noro Transitions at 1/3 of the price you can get it locally, you just have to go for it.

I did take classes, one on the Estonian Patent stitch with Merike Saarniit and math for knitters with Edie Eckman. Both very informative and both very useful. I can't wait to impress everyone in the near future.

The sock was overwhelmed by the whole thing and was very emotional when I told it where we were going and who we would see. I was able to calm the sock down by starting to knit the heel. The sock did okay and managed not to embarrass me despite being severely star struck.

Merike Saarniit, queen of the Estonian Patent Stitch.

Edie Eckman, simplifying math for knitter's everywhere.

Stay tuned for more from my Chicago adventure.

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

How to stalk a celebrity

2008-08-28T08:26:00.004-04:00

You've got your traveling sock in hand with a need to acquire mojo. You really don't want another letter from the TSA (traveling sock association) so you've decided to do all you can to satisfy the rules and regulations.

You go to where the celebrity is doing a book signing, just so you don't have to wait around or pay someone to wait around to alert you when the celebrity emerges.

So there's a long line up. You don't need to deal with that. Just getting a picture of the sock with the celebrity in the background should be good enough.

Good picture of the sock, but with my dime store camera, lousy picture of celebrity. So to the line-up I go. Bonus...there is a woman from celebrity's camp who is giving out handfuls of recipes that are off the website.

Finally get to celebrity and sheepishly admit that any book of hers that I wanted signed was forgotten at home. Don't admit that while I want to buy her latest book, I'm too cheep to buy the hard cover version and am waiting for it to come out in paperback. Tell her that you did stand in line so that you could get a picture of her holding your traveling sock.

Debbie Macomber was most obliging. She even asked if she should appear to be knitting on the sock for the photo.

Okay so it's not true celebrity stalking, but I got my photo and didn't get arrested. That's what I call a good day!

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

How to get a birthday gift from the unimaginative

2008-08-19T08:27:00.006-04:00

Pick up a copy of you favorite magazine. In this case it is Interweave Knits.
Open said magazine and walk by unsuspecting unimaginative person.
Accidentally (on purpose as you must aim at this point) have subscription card fall on the lap of the unsuspecting unimaginative person.

ME: Oops, did I drop something?
UUP: (looks at card) Hmmm what a great birthday gift idea.

My birthday had come and gone so I figured that after three days, I must take matters into my own hands. DH may be slow but he is not so dense to ignore the warning signs. He came home last Monday to tell me that a subscription was a done deal. However, my work was not yet done.

ME: Well kids, I suppose I should get around to making myself a birthday cake.
Kids: Yeah!

Last night DH came home with this. (13 days AFTER my birthday)

It's a chocolate truffle cake with raspberry butter cream from the Ottawa Bagel Shop. In one word....HEAVENLY!

He did do a good job even if he did need MAJOR coaxing and subtle-as-a-train-wreck hints. Maybe next year this will all happen a little closer to the actual day.

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

When I close my eyes....

2008-08-11T08:03:00.003-04:00

When I close my eyes I never know what images are going to come to me in my sleep. Last week I dreamt that I was in a large room that reminded me of a warehouse. There were many people seated at long cafeteria type tables, all oblivious to a woman seated at a table in a corner.

That woman was Jejune. She was surrounded by a pile of books and was there for a book signing. I'm sorry to say that she was not busy at all. In fact no one was coming to see her. As a friend, I went over to say hello and chat.

In her last blog post I have learnt that she has sent off a book proposal (and for this I wish her all the luck in the world). I have no idea what it's about, but in my dream she had written a book about socks. Not a design or pattern book, but a book about the subject of socks. At least I found the subject fascinating even if no one else in the dream did.

So Jejune, not that you need any inspiration for your mind is vastly creative, I thought I should post a pix of my latest pair of socks.

This is my first pair using Knit Picks Bare sock yarn that I dyed. I was going to give the socks to the teen (because of the colours) , but I like how they turned out.

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

A Month of Birthdays

2008-08-07T07:54:00.005-04:00

My birthday has come and gone along with my anniversary. It was marked by me getting up for work and then driving into Ottawa for dinner and a movie with DH. Not very exciting....yes I know. But it was one of those big fat ugly birthdays that a woman doesn't want to acknowledge and breaks out in hives at the mere mention of the number. I really just wanted to get the day over and done with, so I could go back to bed and pretend that the day never happened.

But what I can't play pretend about is a lack of a gift from DH. Yes you read that correctly, he didn't get me anything. I didn't even get a cake.

Fortunately, I covered him, once again. Last Saturday, while he and the kids were watching the Buskers Festival, I was at Knit-Knackers buying something for myself.

Eleven 100g skeins of Louet Gems Merino light worsted weight in cherry red for a price that I could not pass up. I did get the DPNs sets that were the original reason I went to the store. So the yarn was just a bonus. Happy Birthday to me!!!

Actually, if truth be told I also went there to give Emily (the nice gal who works there) her gift. It's her birthday today. She is a wonderful person despite the fact she knits socks on DPNs that look like broom handles.

Look carefully, it's my first happy clappy. What a fun scarf to knit and unravel, so much so I think that I've almost changed my mind about scarf knitting. It's made with Lullaby by Berroco that I got from my stash. Yah gotta like that.

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

For those who know me

2008-07-31T07:37:00.003-04:00

DH and I were at the movies a few weeks ago. There I was minding my own business watching the trailers, when what appears on the screen.

A trailer......for the movie: Australia.

DH: What do you think that it would take to keep you from seeing that movie?

Funny man!!

My only hope is that the movie and the accompanying tourism ad campaign don't make people flock to Australia to the point that prices skyrocket to the point that I'll never be able to afford to return.

In other movie news

Here's a movie for Jejune.
Beverly Hills Chihuahua

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

My Involvement with Kevin Bacon

2008-07-26T09:37:00.004-04:00

I am three degrees from the Kevin Bacon.

The trivia game Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon is based on a variation of the concept of the small world phenomenon and states that any actor can be linked through his or her film roles to actor Kevin Bacon. The game requires a group of players to try to connect any film actor in history to Kevin Bacon as quickly as possible and in as few links as possible. The game was played across various college campuses in the early 1990s.^{[citation needed]} Its name is a pun on the concept of six degrees of separation. In 2007, Bacon started a charitable organization named SixDegrees.org.

In 2001, while I was living on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Kevin Bacon was there filming the movie Trapped. After hours some of the cast and crew, of the movie, took advantage of the local nightlife. Here is where I get my degrees.

My friend just happens to be in the same bar as a rather drunk co-star Charlize Theron. They have an encounter, of which he is rather vague. Whether his vagueness was because he was married at the time or if he was there officially as an RCMP officer...he wouldn't say.

So me to my friend=1 degree
My friend to Charlize Theron= 2 degrees
Charlize to Kevin Bacon= 3 degrees

Now I do know a guy who was an extra in the movie. (They used a local highway for a scene in the movie and asked for people to drive up and down the highway as part of the back ground). So I could say that I am 2 degrees from Kevin but the guy I know is a total jerk and probably never even talked to Kevin. That, and the three degrees story is better.

So there you have it, my total involvement with Kevin Bacon.

On a knitting note, the owner of the wool shop told me that on a day when they couldn't film because of rain (it was BC after all) a whack of of the crew came in to buy knitting supplies. Shows that they have good taste.

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

Remember to Always......

2008-07-22T10:46:00.004-04:00

Voice in my head: Remember to always tie your skein in three places when you block it.

Me: Yes!

Voice in my head: Remember to always tie your skein in three places when you block it.

Me: Absolutely!

Voice in my head: Remember to always tie your skein in three places when you block it.

Me: I've got it ingrained in my inner most being, I'll never forget. Thank you voice in my head.

Voice in my head: Remember to always tie your skein in three places when you throw said skein into the dye pot.

Me: Yes!

I think that the voice in my head should have reminded me on that last point a couple of more times.

I have no words to describe what I went through to fix the brain fart I had when I dyed this skein.....even though the other three skeins, dyed at the same time some how managed to get themselves tied securely.

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

I dare you not to laugh

2008-07-14T09:18:00.003-04:00

A joke about flowers.

Grandma was visiting her family and having a lovely time. One morning while she was in the kitchen, her 19 year old grand daughter entered the room. The grand daughter was wearing a see-thru blouse and no bra.

"My dear," says Grandma, who is more than just a little shocked, "You're not going out like that are you?"

"Of course, Grandma, I want to show off my flower buds"

The next morning, the grand daughter goes into the kitchen and finds Grandma there. Grandma is wearing a see-thru blouse and no bra.

"Grandma," the grand daughter exclaims, with a look of horror on her face," You're not going out like that are you?"

"Of course dear, I want to show off my hanging baskets."

Until the next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

Shhhhh....it's a secret

2008-07-10T15:49:00.003-04:00

I mailed this about a week ago. She will get it eventually. And just in case she decides that getting up several times a night, with a newborn, doesn't fill up her days and decides that she needs to do a bit of blog reading to occupy all that free time she has, I'll only give you a sneak preview. (Whew...I just realized that last sentence was quite a mouthful. But who cares about your grammar when you can knit beautiful sweaters)

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

I'm going slightly Mad

2008-07-02T09:40:00.006-04:00

I'm knitting with just one needle,
I'm unravelling fast.

Freddie, I know just how you feel!

The kids have been home an entire week and already I am in need of a long holiday. The kids are driving me loopy. In addition to them being home 24/7, this past week and a half hasn't been the best for me in other areas.

Just before school ended I was generally screwed over at work. As a result, I've been upset, angry, frustrated and generally ticked off. For those of you who have been reading my blog for awhile, I'm not talking about Knit-Knackers. I'm referring to another place that I haven't motioned and now there will be no need to mention them at all.

What I need, I guess, is a diversion. Leave it to DH and DS to provide me with one. For the longest time, DH has been getting his head shaved in the summer. Even DS wants his hair short. So how to keep your kids entertained on Canada Day???? You let them shave your head.

What can I say. He's a brave man.

It was at this point that I took over. After all, he has no plans to audition for a role as a member of a biker gang in a Mad Max type flick any time soon.

DH has spent the last several weeks roofing our house, hence the farmer's tan. He's not really a red neck but does look slightly odd with a tanned face and white head. Snicker :)

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

Celebrating the Fictitious One

2008-06-23T07:10:00.005-04:00

On Saturday, June 21, in Almonte, weavers and spinners gathered together to honour the fictitious patron saint of our craft. Although Saint Distaff rests solely in the minds of my fellow fibre enthusiasts we celebrate St. Distaff's Day by gathering together with the like minded and do what we love best.

Sounds like some kind of cult doesn't it?

Each year one of the guilds from the Ottawa Valley hosts the event. They plan, prepare, provide lunch, and have a selection of activities for participants. This year I took triaxial weaving in the morning.

Ribbons are placed vertically, then the second colour is woven in. A third colour is then added. For a while, I was beginning to think that I would need a degree in engineering to figure out how to add the third colour. No wonder the instructions label the third colour as the most difficult step in the whole process. When I add the fusible interfacing to the back of my weaving I'll put this piece in a window card.

And voila, I'll have my first Christmas card. And a way to use up all the ribbon that I have, hidden away. (But you knew that already.)

For the afternoon's activity, everyone got to dye a silk scarf. I'd show you a picture but mine came out so subtle that it looks like one colour with no pattern. I have immediate plans to over dye the scarf.

WOOT WOOT.....I have a stalker!!!!!

No restraining order needed though. My stalker is none other than Lisa from Ottawa. I told her that I was going to be at St. Distaff's Day, so she came to introduce herself. So I guess that she isn't a stalker in the truest sense of the word, but it is a start.

In other news.....

The teen is finished school for the year and the other two have today and tomorrow to get through. Translated this means I have until Wednesday to get prepared for a summer with my children. Sigh....

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

We interrupt these cables

2008-06-16T14:02:00.007-04:00

I've been busy with cables for the past little while. I've got a cabled sweater for my niece and the must have cardi, for me, on the go.

Cables, cables and more cables....I adore cables.

But then one day it hit me. I want to knit some lace. And not just any lace. I want to knit lace that is intricate and mind boggling but most importantly....challenging.

I decided to start by finishing this half done scarf from the UFO pile. It is a simple garter stitch lace pattern made with a purple alpaca blend. I now want to bring it up a notch. I've got the book Victorian Lace and I'm going for it.

However, in the mean time, I've got this scarf.

I won't wear it and I have no idea why I bought this gorgeous ball of fibre in a royal purple colour. I like purple, but have nothing to go with it. So it looks like I'll tuck this number, after it's blocked, into the Christmas gift stash.

Now all I have to do is find a purple lovin', scarf wearin', alpaca adorin' person to give this to. Any suggestions????

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

Countdown to Chicago

2008-06-11T07:04:00.003-04:00

WOOT WOOT!!!

I'm so excited, I could almost burst, but that would be messy, so I won't.

This August I'm heading to Chicago, for the first time. Technically, I have been there before as I ran from one gate to another to catch a plane home.

This time I will be landing, getting off the plane and exiting the airport. Unless civil war breaks out in Canada and it ceases to be a country so I'll be forced to live at O'Hare until stability returns to my homeland. Hmmm....I'd better develop some carpentry skills before I go.

I know what you are thinking.....I watch far to many movies.

Actually the reason for my visit is none other than Stitches Midwest. (So you can understand the bursting.)

I will be taking a couple of classes, pushing my way through lines to get knitting celebs to hold my sock, eating authentic Chicago deep dish pizza, seeing the local sights, and shopping. Yes, there will be shopping, lots of shopping.

Best of all, I am guaranteed (hopefully), not to have an embarrassing encounter similar to the one MadMad had at the butterfly exhibit.

While I have no proof, I'm guessing that at a convention such as Stitches, people bond over yarn.

Me: Felted Tweed?
stranger that I've been stalking: Why yes it is.
Me: I just love your sweater.
Stranger: Oh thank you, it took me forever to knit it.
Me: Where can I find the pattern?
Stranger: It started off as a commercial pattern but then I totally changed it. Let me tell you all about my modifications.....

Somehow I don't see anyone wearing wool in Chicago in August. Correct me if I'm wrong, but I'm thinking that it's still stinky hot, in August, in Chicago. And finishing a fabulous wool sweater just in time for Stitches, so you can show it off is ....well.... is either insane or down right brilliant. I can't decide.

In any case, I'm off to knit something fabulous in the hopes of getting my very own stalkers at this event.

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

Monday, Bloody Monday

2008-06-05T07:32:00.003-04:00

It has taken me several days to write this post, but it is something that I need to do.

The people of Ottawa woke up this past Monday and either heard on the news or read in the newspaper about the death of Alicia Bateman.

She didn't die in an accident.

She didn't die after a long illness.

She didn't die of any natural causes.

She was murdered by her ex-fiance.

I don't have the heart to go into the details but you can read about the story here.

I met Alicia last year. She was a member of the Canadian contingent that went to a conference in Canberra last May. I got the chance to know her when she joined me for breakfast.

The funeral will be in Calgary and there will be a memorial for her at her workplace here in Ottawa. Since she worked at CSIS and I don't have the security clearance to get into the building, I am writing the post in tribute to Alicia.

Neighbours described her as cordial and someone who kept to herself. I would like to add something to that description.

Alicia was nice, friendly, intelligent, well thought of, fun loving and down to earth. We spoke of our adventures in Aus, the future, the difficulties of maintaining a long distant relationship, dogs and a few girly things.

You will be missed Alicia. Not because we were close friends and spent a lot of time together, but because the world needs more people like you. While the world may remember you only from your death, I promise to remember you from those days of your life in May 2007.

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

If you build it.....

2008-06-01T07:58:00.006-04:00

......they will hatch.

The Internet is a wonderful place. It's full of all kinds of information. So when DH got it into his head to build an incubator, he went straight for the triple W. And much to his own surprise, it worked. On Friday night I was at the computer and heard a chirping.

This is the little guy starting to escape.

Using a few purchased items and some things we had around the house, this is what he built. While I'm not surprised that something he built worked, I am surprised that something this simple worked.

a cheap Styrofoam cooler $3
a candy thermometer $3
the plastic from a picture frame $1
a dimmer switch $6.49
fan (already had)
light bulb and socket (already had)
container for water (already had)

You've got to like a DH with an unusual stash of gadgets.

This is chicken #1, we've had two more hatch since. The eggs were added at regular intervals so hopefully there will be more throughout the week. Cross your fingers because hopefully by next week end we should see a couple of ducklings emerge from their shell.

These little ones are almost 24 hours old and with any luck will go to replace my aging hens.

****Lesson on chickens****

Chickens will slow down on the egg production, due to age, and eventually stop laying eggs. While I like my chickens and treat them very well, there comes a point where you've got to let go and cull the flock. We're passed the sentimentality of feeding chickens that don't do anything. It's kind of like forced retirement for the baby boomers and hiring a batch of college graduates.

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

My Cheatin' Heart

2008-05-26T08:16:00.005-04:00

It's sad really, a grown woman with so little will power. Here I was, ready to commit to this yarn diet. I was going to be good. I was only going to knit from my stash. I was not going to buy anything. I need to make room in my storage area. I have a suitcase filled with yarn that I need to find a spot for so that I can fill it up once again on an upcoming trip.

I was doing so well. Since the yarn diet had begun, I had bought only 2-50g balls of sock wool. I have been told by some very wise knitters that sock yarn doesn't count, so I'm in the clear on that count.

So here I was, minding my own business, not even thinking about buying any more yarn when WHAM!!!!! It hit me like a tonne of bricks.

How could I resist? I'm only human after all. Malabrigo merino has got to be the softest thing on the planet right now. Eight skeins calling my name as if I were a sailor to be lured to my death.

However the word sale can be a powerful force and make me succumb to my weaknesses. I won't tell you how little I paid for this wool. Let's just say that if I didn't buy this yarn, I would have had a stern reprimand by the knitting police for passing up such a good deal.

That being said, my conscience is clear. Especially since I have actually started knitting something with it. If my calculations are correct, I have enough to make the Must Have Cardigan. This time it is working out beautifully.

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

The Red Coats are Coming!

2008-05-19T11:28:00.008-04:00

Because I just can't get enough of horses or guys in uniform, DH and I took the kids to see the RCMP Musical Ride on Friday night. The evening started off with a demonstration of The Ottawa Police K-9 division.

I think that the dog really enjoys his work. The guy in the Michelin Man suit just happened to be an off duty officer who came to watch the Ride and was volun-told to help out with the demo.

Here comes the the highlight of the evening!

At the end of the performance, all the riders brought their horses along the fence and gave the audience a chance to pet the horses and talk with a member of the ride.

This is DD#2. She lives, eats, breaths and sleeps anything to do with horses. So out of all three kids, she was the most impressed. Here she is petting, Sheriff a 10 year old stallion.

This is Regan Douglas, Sheriff's rider. She is on the last year of her three year stint with the musical ride. I would have thought that after three years with the Musical Ride anything you did afterwards would be a let down. But no, next year Regan will learn how to dispose of bombs and blow things up, because there is not enough excitement in her life.

And last but not least, the sock. The sock enjoyed the performance so much that it didn't even mind when DS went on and on.....and on about horse poop and the ability of a horse to poop anywhere he felt like it.

Myself however: "enough about the horse poop already!"

The sock would also like to let you know that if you ever get to see the Musical Ride, be sure to see it from high up. You'll get an awesome view of the formations that is not possible from the regular bleachers.

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

Tales from the Farm

2008-05-13T07:49:00.007-04:00

There are many benefits to living next door to a working farm. You just never know who is going to drop by.

This is Pooper. I didn't name him so if he has a complex and self esteem issues, he can't blame me. Pooper is less than a week old and is very affectionate.

In case you were wondering. a lamb licking your bare feet...VERY ticklish.

Here is the teen with Pooper, she is not trying to strangle him, just hold his head steady for the photo. Before I forget, let's not get excited about Pooper and have delusions of grandeur about his potential. He is a hair type sheep......means no fleece to shear and spin. But he has such a loveable nature, that I decided to overlook his failings.

It's feeding time and that boy is hungry. The teen was more than willing to help out.

I think now is the time to tell you about Pooper's sad story. Poor little guy, he was rejected and beat up by his mother which is why he needs to be bottle fed. And if that weren't enough, the poor little guy is blind.

It's like starting out in life with three strikes against you.

As hard hearted as DH likes to pretend to be, he really is a softy. When the next bottle was ready, he was more than willing to take feeding duty.

Something very good came out of this whole DH/Pooper bonding moment.

DH: I think that we should get Baby Doll Sheep.

I'll keep you posted.

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

Top Secret Knitting

2008-05-09T15:40:00.005-04:00

.........Or the arrival of Cone head. This is Moro, my Great White Pyrenees. She is not happy for a couple of reasons. First and foremost, the cone around her head. I doubt that she could care less about the loss of her ovaries and uterus. The cone is to keep her from licking herself and removing the stitches. Doesn't she look PATHETIC? Actually I haven't seen a dog that didn't look depressed while wearing a cone.

I just can't come to terms with the fact that dogs are somewhat vane.

Hmmmm actually she looks kind of stoned in this picture, doesn't she?

Now for the knitting. I really wish that I could show pictures. I really don't have a problem showing off my skill but these are presents for people who read my blog and I want to keep the pressies a surprise. But let's just say that I have 1 1/2 more FO's under my belt at the last count.

I suppose that a 1/2 FO is really more a UFO. However since I am actively working on it, it is a WIP. Really...Honest....I am constantly working on it.......I wouldn't lie about something like this...too much.

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

Birdie BBQ

2008-05-02T07:02:00.010-04:00

It looks like an ordinary BBQ doesn't it? ...... HAH.....nothing can be so simple in my world. It took a 6 year old boy to find out its secret. This is what transpired last Friday afternoon.

DS: Mom, there's something in the BBQ.

Me: What is it?

DS: Just come look.

Okay, there's a bird's nest in our BBQ. I can understand that. "How ingenious," I think to myself. "What a clever bird, picking a great spot like that"

HOWEVER

BBQ season is upon us and I have needs. I have a need for DH to do most of the cooking. Since he gladly takes on the mantle of chef during this time of year, I look forward to the respite. So with the kids help, we removed all traces of the nest.

I know what you are thinking. I am not an uncaring kind of person. We took the nest portion and put in securely in our cedar hedge.

HOWEVER

Mother Nature has her own agenda. "Get back into that kitchen and cook your kids a meal"

Well I guess that the BBQ is prime real estate and the bird has squatter's rights. Last night.....

DS: Mom there's another bird's nest in the BBQ.

Me: Okay, let's get rid of it.

This time there is more than just a nest.

I guess that I can wait a little longer for BBQ season.

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

One Year Ago Today......

2008-04-26T08:52:00.005-04:00

......I started an adventure.

I just couldn't let this day go by without writing something about it.

I said goodbye to my kids as I put them on the school bus. I had my dad drive me to the airport and there I waited in the first of many queues.

I was in the air for about 23 hours, but it was worth every single minute. At the end of my trip I landed in a place that felt like home.

I miss everything about the place. I miss the accents, I miss being the one with a foreign accent. I miss the new foods I got to try. I miss getting pronunciation lessons from the guy at the front desk. I miss figuring out the bus schedules and just jumping on a bus to see what is at the end of the line. I miss the freedom of being able to explore a new place on my own, without having to worry about someone else's time table.

Maybe I just miss being on vacation.

I miss the atmosphere of the city. I miss the museums and galleries that I got to visit and I really miss all the ones I didn't. I miss all the one-on-one time I got to spend with DH. I miss all the artwork throughout the city. I miss the great prices on the locally made wool. I miss all the friendly people I met. I miss the local lingo and being confused as to what people were talking about. I miss seeing the sights of the local wildlife. I miss all the new experiences I encountered.

But most of all, I miss the friends I made.

Would I go to OZ again.....in a heartbeat!

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

How to ruin a bad day

2008-04-25T07:01:00.006-04:00

I was having a really rotten, no good, bad day this week. But just when I thought that the day couldn't get any worse, I came home to find a parcel notice waiting for me. BAD DAY GONE!!!!!!!! The only thing that I was expecting was my crazy sock contest prize.

POUT!!!! I got home too late. The post office is closed.

I headed to the post office first thing the next morning. I will admit that it took every ounce of self control not to rip open the parcel right then and there. But I was good, and waited until I got home so I could properly document the occasion.

There is nothing like a box filled with knitting goodies to make my day. My prize included a book light, wool wash, stitch markers, a sock it to me sock chart, two samples of gloves in a bottle and a skein of Seacoast Handpainted sock yarn.

SIGH......

Is is strange that I wore the skein of sock yarn around my neck for most of the day?????

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

Mojo from Maureen

2008-04-23T07:04:00.007-04:00

I've got to admit, that I am quite fortunate to live in an area with such a great Knitting Guild. Earlier this year the guild brought in Sally Melville and this past weekend we had Maureen Mason-Jamieson give several workshops.

I took a class on using slip stitches and advanced mitering. Very interesting, especially at the end of the first class when she picked up my hand-dyed wool that I was using, to show the whole class.....Giggle..... Maureen's presentation at the guild meeting was about knitting from your stash. The whole premise for this is that it will enable you to go buy more yarn. I like the way she thinks. I also handed in my crazy socks for the guild contest on Monday night. I figured that we were on a roll so why stop now.

And of course I got her to hold the sock. That sock will have so much mojo before I even get a chance to do any traveling with it.

I haven't done much knitting at all lately, because of a baby shower. You may ask why I don't just knit something for the baby. I fell in love with double sided quilting several years ago and look for any opportunity to make one (especially the smaller ones for babies).

Why yes, I do happen to have a fabric stash.....why do you ask????

UPDATE

As for unanswered question #3. He wanted to bring the fluff to school to show his friends. I'm still working on questions #1 & 2.

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

Unanswered Questions of the Universe

2008-04-19T09:39:00.005-04:00

Yesterday morning, Destructo Boy came downstairs to get ready for school. He was carrying three containers.

DB: I want to bring my fluff to school.

Me: What?

DB: I want to bring my fluff to school.

Me: Did you pull that fluff from the inside of your sleeping bag?

DB: (SILENCE)

Me: That was BAD.....BAD.....BAD..... (stunned silence) Just get ready for school.

I still have yet to find out:

Why he pulled the fluff out of his sleeping bag (said sleeping bag is on it's last legs anyway).
Why he put it into containers.
Why he wanted to bring it to school.

But seriously folks, even with my imagination, there is no way I could make this up.

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

And the Winner is....

2008-04-14T20:10:00.003-04:00

Drum roll please......

Deluxe Yarns emailed me this morning and asked for my address. They told me to expect my prize in the mail and that the photos of the winning socks were on there blog.

This is me, hyperventalating.

I checked out their blog.

This is me, doing the happy dance and squealing with delight.

My crazy socks came in first place.

So without further ado here is photographic evidence of how truly crazy I really am:

Thanks Mad Mad for the idea. Next time I'll try to outsource the weaving in of the ends but I don't think that I know anyone, besides myself, who is that crazy.

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

I have a cunning plan

2008-04-10T11:49:00.004-04:00

I am going to write a book. This book is going to be a big success. Everyone will want me to sign their copy, so I will have to do a book tour.

It will be great. I'll get to travel. I'll give speeches and impress everyone with my amazing wit. I'll get wined and dined, I'll hob nob with the A-crowd, it'll be a blast.

Best of all, I'll show up to these events wearing lovely hand knit cardis like this:

I'd better get to work....but this writing thing will really cut into my knitting time....I knew there was a catch...

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

Pierogi, perogi, perogy, pirohi, piroghi, or pirogi

2008-04-07T06:58:00.008-04:00

What ever you call them, these little things are tasty and my family just loves to scarf them down. Wiki has a page on Pierogis so you can read all about this Eastern European dumpling here. I had posted a picture, a while back, of a giant, perogy statue and was asked "What is it?". Last night DH and I made them so I hope this explains everything.

Potatoes are boiled then mashed. Last night we added cheddar, onions and garlic to the potatoes. While there is no end to how to fill a perogy, we tend to stick to four different kinds, a potato base with cheddar and blue cheese or with bacon and cheddar or filled with only sauerkraut.

Dough is put through my automated pasta machine......OOPS... I mean my lovely assistant generously gives up his time and muscle to make sure the dough is perfect. Translation, if he wants me to help, he cranks the pasta machine.

Strips of dough are laid out on my press and are filled. I use a piping bag as it saves time. A second layer is then placed on top.

Here is my lovely assistant again, rolling on the press. This seals the two layers together and cuts out the individual perogies. This is actually my job. Honestly, I don't make him do everything.

The finished perogies are put on a large cookie sheet and frozen. They are later bagged for future suppers.

To cook them, the perogies are put in almost boiling water until they float. We then fry them with garlic and onions and serve them up with sour cream. But that is just a personal preference. In case you are wondering, we made 15 dozen last night.

On the subject of the $2/ball sale. Cassidy's is a clothing store (2 locations) in Canberra with a very nice wool department. I couldn't tell you when they hold this sale...sorry. If they had such a sale while I was visiting....I don't even want to think about the damage I would have done to my Visa.

Hope this clears everything up.
Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

Ain't She Sweet

2008-04-01T08:58:00.007-04:00

This was my Easter gift to myself. (Somebody forgot to get me chocolate...Ahem...no names but I do refer to him using initials.) Her name is Bluebelle and she is just the cutest thing. DH is just smitten with her. I have to laugh when I see him playing with her, he was so stand offish when I got my first bunny. Just in case any of you were counting, this brings the count to three as I have sold all the babies from my first litter.

For those of you not in the know. Her colour is classified as blue and her fur colour will not change or lighten up. Turns out that the breeder who sold me this bunny was in need of a torte male. And the last bunny left from my litter was exactly what she needed, so no money exchanged hands, just bunnies. Funny how life works out.

Tonight I write my final exam. I will then be qualified to do nothing except give anyone who cares to listen a list of the places in/reasons to visit Asia and Oceania. Since tourism is so subjective, giving the $2/ball sale at Cassidy's as a reson to visit Canberra would be a correct answer.

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

When technology gets into the wrong hands

2008-03-30T15:01:00.003-04:00

DH had to pick out a camera, for the teen, that is capable of video complete with audio.

I just had to fall asleep in my knitting chair after dinner.

So....if you find a video, on youtube, of a sleeping woman, with a knitting project on her lap, complete with the sounds of an undignified snore......please disregard.

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic

Wish me Luck

2008-03-27T10:01:00.002-04:00

My health hasn't been great, as of late. Just when I thought that I was getting over something, I take a turn for the worse.

However.....there are a few things coming up that could make me feel better. Remember the crazy sock contest? I've entered. I made a pair of my crazy socks, but this time I went a step further. In my original how-to posting about crazy socks, I also gave the link for the Rainbow sock pattern. Mad Mad commented that I should combine the two methods and that is what I did. After they announce the winners, I'll post a picture of my entry.

Now if contest with a yarny type prize isn't enough to raise my spirits......listen to this. A local radio station, Majic 100 fm is holding a $15,000 Broyhill furniture Family Room Makeover contest. The winner not only gets $15,000 of the most incredible furniture but a $4,000 home movie package from the Audio Shop.

This Saturday they are holding the Give Away party for the 30 families picked from those who entered online and the 20 families who entered at Broyhill. If you haven't guessed by now......my name was one of the 30 picked by the radio station.

AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!

I realize that I haven't won anything yet......but I've already beaten the odds just by having my name picked to go to the give away party. Cross your fingers and toes for me...(just as long as it doesn't interfere with your knitting)

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
the Fibreholic

I thought that they would help.

2008-03-20T14:03:00.005-04:00

As I'm sure you're all aware of the healing powers of knitting cables. All Hail!!!! to the restorative powers of cables. I figured what better way than to become a Yarn Harlot groupie and knit my way, with the Must Have Cardigan, back to health.

The yarn would have been perfect. It has been in my stash long enough to have aged nicely, just like a fine wine. The yarn actually came from an estate sale about 12 years ago so it's hard to say how long it's actually been stashed for.

Because I wanted this cold to be over and done with quickly, I dove in, head first, into the back. After a few rows I discovered that this yarn was not meant for cables. I can't blame the yarn though. I just can't think clearly with phlegm filled sinuses. I'm heart broken, but resign myself to frogging the little I've knit. After all, what's the point of all those lovely cables if you can't see them!!!!!!

Since I am anxious to use this yarn, I am knitting a plain raglan sweater. Looks like I'll be sick for a while longer.

Until next time
Yours in Yarn,
The Fibreholic