What a great day!
Saturday, October 16
Wednesday, April 14
Must be a record or something!
Today has been a lazy day, I love those days, where nothing much is on the agenda, and I can play it by ear. I didn't mention in my last post that I recently purchased a new camera. It's been great fun learning the ins and outs. Everything in my path is getting documented! Here's a few of my favorite photos of late...(and certainly not because of the quality, just because they are fun!)
I've been sewing more box bags so I have places to carry all of my projects for the Fling. I'm really digging the butterfly one!
Recent shipment of Vesper yarn!
Crazy fun knit night last week where we had a stash trade/sale. ( I was the lucky girl who walked away with the Wollmeise!
And my favorite thing of all...dessert tonight was strawberries and cream. Yumm!
I've been sewing more box bags so I have places to carry all of my projects for the Fling. I'm really digging the butterfly one!
Recent shipment of Vesper yarn!
Crazy fun knit night last week where we had a stash trade/sale. ( I was the lucky girl who walked away with the Wollmeise!
And my favorite thing of all...dessert tonight was strawberries and cream. Yumm!
Tuesday, April 13
Spring Fling Baby!!
Well hello there! Funny how a resolve to blog more turns into a month and a half with no post! Anyways, I thought I'd quickly check in to say hi, and express HOW AMAZINGLY EXITED I AM THAT IT'S APRIL AND ALMOST SPRING FLING TIME!!!! Only 9 days and I'm off again on a fantastic yarn adventure! Lots of knitting has been going on (one project that I can't really talk about too much since it's a gift for my Janet at the fling). I'm preparing what will go into the project bags, class supplies for a class with my imaginary knitting boyfriend Jared Flood! Yep that's right..I get to knit with the B r o o k l y n t w e e d!
Further to my last post, I had mentioned a trip to Dominican with my mom, well Dominican Republic turned into Cuba because the company we booked the trip with went belly up three or four days before our trip. We ended up re-booking with another company and going to Cayo Coco Cuba. It was amazing!
The scenery was beautiful.
Oh and one more thing...you have to go watch Laura and Leslie's new knitting video-cast theknitgirllls. They are all kinds of awesome!
Further to my last post, I had mentioned a trip to Dominican with my mom, well Dominican Republic turned into Cuba because the company we booked the trip with went belly up three or four days before our trip. We ended up re-booking with another company and going to Cayo Coco Cuba. It was amazing!
The scenery was beautiful.Oh and one more thing...you have to go watch Laura and Leslie's new knitting video-cast theknitgirllls. They are all kinds of awesome!
Wednesday, February 17
Dear Blog
I think I've missed you! So much has gone on and I think it's time to resurrect you! I've been knitting up a storm as usual, there are so many things to talk about I don't know where to start. Exciting thing the first, I'm headed on a vacation to the Dominican Republic with mom. It's been so long since I've seen the ocean that I almost don't remember the salty taste of the air. I'll be sure to post some pictures once I've returned.
Exciting thing the second, I'm going to the Spring Fling in St. Louis again this year!
This time I even convinced some Sudbury girls to come along. I can't wait. Of course this means that all yarn buying will have to stop between now and then *cough..except for the Vesper Neapolitan that just jumped into my cart today. I couldn't help myself.
To distract you from the above mentioned slip in will power, I'll show you the latest FO off the needles. This is Wendy Johnston's Argus. This was an amazingly quick knit, and my first finished hand spun project. I used all but 1 gram of the sanguine gryphon silk merino hand spun in the post below.
I've also been working on my Olympic Knitting project which is proving to be a real challenge time-wise. I'm knitting Maplewing by Anne Hanson of Knitspot. Very well written pattern, but 600 sts off the go! It took me a good half hour just to cast on. I'm getting closer and closer to the decrease row in Chart A and it cannot come soon enough. Hopefully my 20 min rows will become much quicker.
On top of all that, I'm also test knitting Icing for Sam Roshak of Knitquest. Should be done and photoed tonight. Whew that's allot! So my lovelies, until I post again. (hopefully sooner than later)
Exciting thing the second, I'm going to the Spring Fling in St. Louis again this year!
This time I even convinced some Sudbury girls to come along. I can't wait. Of course this means that all yarn buying will have to stop between now and then *cough..except for the Vesper Neapolitan that just jumped into my cart today. I couldn't help myself.
To distract you from the above mentioned slip in will power, I'll show you the latest FO off the needles. This is Wendy Johnston's Argus. This was an amazingly quick knit, and my first finished hand spun project. I used all but 1 gram of the sanguine gryphon silk merino hand spun in the post below.
I've also been working on my Olympic Knitting project which is proving to be a real challenge time-wise. I'm knitting Maplewing by Anne Hanson of Knitspot. Very well written pattern, but 600 sts off the go! It took me a good half hour just to cast on. I'm getting closer and closer to the decrease row in Chart A and it cannot come soon enough. Hopefully my 20 min rows will become much quicker.
On top of all that, I'm also test knitting Icing for Sam Roshak of Knitquest. Should be done and photoed tonight. Whew that's allot! So my lovelies, until I post again. (hopefully sooner than later)
Monday, August 10
Bean Flowers
Are you there blog? It's me Stickchicky....I'm alive, I swear.
I just discovered a new setting on my camera, and had a little fun playing in the garden this morning...I present Bean Flowers and Watermelon babies.
I've alsobeen spinning. There is 560 yards of Sanguine Gryphon Handpainted Merino Silk 4oz, in the More Curvaceous Colorway. I am thrilled with how this turned out
It's been a beautiful (but hot and humid) day, and since it's one of the few we've had this summer, I'm off to run around outside!
I just discovered a new setting on my camera, and had a little fun playing in the garden this morning...I present Bean Flowers and Watermelon babies.
I've alsobeen spinning. There is 560 yards of Sanguine Gryphon Handpainted Merino Silk 4oz, in the More Curvaceous Colorway. I am thrilled with how this turned out
It's been a beautiful (but hot and humid) day, and since it's one of the few we've had this summer, I'm off to run around outside!
Tuesday, January 13
Saturday, December 20
Sappy post ahead
I had a deep moment at Walmart of all places today. I was waiting in a line up that I thought would never end, and as I usually do, I was people watching. There was a couple in front of me with a cart full of toilet paper and new pillows gazing at each other lovingly...just happy to be in each other's company. It occurred to me that they had been married for quite some time. They spoke with their eyes and soft gestures to one another. Each knew what the other had to say without speaking. This tall, well dressed gentleman looked at one of the shelves at the cash and noticed the display of chocolate was all in disarray, and started to "face"the shelves, making each little box of chocolate look perfect, stacking them up neatly and dispensing of the empty display boxes so that shoppers didn't have to wade through the mess. Perhaps he was bored, but to me this touched my heart and I'm not sure why it affected me so much. His wife looked at him lovingly and he put his hand on her back and gently rubbed her shoulders. I felt tears welling up when I saw this. I wanted to tap this woman on the shoulder and tell her how very lucky she was to be married to such a man, although I'm sure she already knew this by the look on her face. Such a simple gesture, I thought, and it was quite obvious he has probably never worked at job such as Walmart in his life, but he felt the need to "help out" 30 seconds of his time to arrange that shelf, but probably saved a poor kid from having to wade through the hordes of people that night, to tidy it up at his boss' request. This to me is the spirit of the holidays. Random selfless acts, no matter how small, that add up to make this world a better place.
This man inspired me to want to be a better person. Walk through life and make things better, no matter how small a gesture.
This man inspired me to want to be a better person. Walk through life and make things better, no matter how small a gesture.
Thursday, December 11
Merlot
Merlot
By Sarah Dupuis. All rights reserved 2008
1 set 5 mm 16" circular needles
1 skein Manos del Uruguay Kettle Dyed Pure wool( 138 yds). I used colour 54.
* this would also work very nicely in Malabrigo, Patons SWS, or Noro Kureyon/silk garden
1 Stitch marker
2 Buttons about 1 inch diameter. I used Mother of pearl shell buttons purchased at Walmart.
* Notes: to (M1) pick up the leg of yarn between sts and knit through the back of the loop
With circular needles, cast on 80 Sts and join to work in the round. Work 8 rows in twisted rib - K2 tbl, P2* to end.
Next round: K8 (m1)* repeat to end of round . 90 sts
Knit 2 rounds plain.
Next round: K9 (m1)* repeat to end of round . 100 sts
Knit 12 rounds.
Next Round: K10 (m1)* repeat to end. 110 sts
Knit 6 rounds plain
Begin Decreases
K10, K2 tog* repeat to last 2 sts K2
Knit 2 rounds
K9 K2tog* to last 2 sts, K2
Knit 6 rounds
K8 K2tog * to last 2 sts, K2
Knit 2 rounds plain
K7 K2 tog* to last 2 sts, K2
Knit 2 rounds plain.
K6 K2tog* to last 2 st K2
Knit 1 row
K5 K2tog* to last 2 sts
Knit 1 row
Continue in this manner, knitting one less stitch between K2tog decreases with 1 plain round between decrease rows until 16 sts remain, cut yarn and thread through remaining sts,
pull tightly and fasten off on the inside of hat.
If you wish you can block the hat into the shape you prefer.
Sew 2 buttons where you like them, and Voila!! a cute slouchy hat in a day.
Hopefully this works out! I've been trying all day to offer up this free pattern, bud Adobe hates me! So Here it is! Enjoy.
By Sarah Dupuis. All rights reserved 2008This hat was inspired by the dozens of single skeins of Manos del Uruguay I had lying around in my stash.
This hat takes less than 1 skein and fits nicely over the ears so it will actually keep you warm.
Living in Northern Ontario, warmth is a necessity when the temperature drops to -45 c.
Materials:
This hat takes less than 1 skein and fits nicely over the ears so it will actually keep you warm.
Living in Northern Ontario, warmth is a necessity when the temperature drops to -45 c.
Materials:
1 set 5 mm 16" circular needles
1 skein Manos del Uruguay Kettle Dyed Pure wool( 138 yds). I used colour 54.
* this would also work very nicely in Malabrigo, Patons SWS, or Noro Kureyon/silk garden
1 Stitch marker
2 Buttons about 1 inch diameter. I used Mother of pearl shell buttons purchased at Walmart.
* Notes: to (M1) pick up the leg of yarn between sts and knit through the back of the loop
With circular needles, cast on 80 Sts and join to work in the round. Work 8 rows in twisted rib - K2 tbl, P2* to end.
Next round: K8 (m1)* repeat to end of round . 90 sts
Knit 2 rounds plain.
Next round: K9 (m1)* repeat to end of round . 100 sts
Knit 12 rounds.
Next Round: K10 (m1)* repeat to end. 110 sts
Knit 6 rounds plain
Begin Decreases
K10, K2 tog* repeat to last 2 sts K2
Knit 2 rounds
K9 K2tog* to last 2 sts, K2
Knit 6 rounds
K8 K2tog * to last 2 sts, K2
Knit 2 rounds plain
K7 K2 tog* to last 2 sts, K2
Knit 2 rounds plain.
K6 K2tog* to last 2 st K2
Knit 1 row
K5 K2tog* to last 2 sts
Knit 1 row
Continue in this manner, knitting one less stitch between K2tog decreases with 1 plain round between decrease rows until 16 sts remain, cut yarn and thread through remaining sts,
pull tightly and fasten off on the inside of hat.
If you wish you can block the hat into the shape you prefer.
Sew 2 buttons where you like them, and Voila!! a cute slouchy hat in a day.
Hopefully this works out! I've been trying all day to offer up this free pattern, bud Adobe hates me! So Here it is! Enjoy.
Sunday, November 9
It's Been So Long
There's so much to say, it's been so long. I'm trying to figure out how to write this post and let everyone know about the million ups and downs I've faced over the last few months. I'll be back soon. I just need to sort out my next post.
S
S
Monday, June 23
A Day for Soothing Simplicity
I need something mindless. Something soothing to take my mind off of some bad news I've received today. I'm not sure how to deal, but my knitting has kept me company today. No sock for SOS..just a simple hand spun hat in the round until the edge wears off. Do you ever have a week where you just wish something good would finally happen? Maybe tomorrow...maybe when this hat is off the needles...maybe the sock will feel right for tomorrow. I Hope.
Monday, June 16
Holy Moly!
I didn't really believe I had enough yarn to come close to competing in the Summer of Socks 08 most socks challenge...that is until I started pulling it all out to see what I had. The scary part is, there is a huge bin in my chest freezer out in the garage that must have at least 20-30 more skeins in it as well. Did I really buy that much? Wow. At last count, there was enough in that pile to complete at least 30 pairs of socks. That doesn't count what's in the garage. Two of those skeins are also huge mill end skeins from Cherry Tree Hill that have enough for about 3 pairs each.
I do have a plan in the works for this knit a long. I've bought myself a new blue binder, and started collecting all of the sock patterns in it that I plan to knit. I would also like to match the yarn with the pattern, record all the pertinent info such as recipient, size, needles used, and modifications. For this I've included a sheet of graph paper with each pattern to take notes. My goal is to have at least half of the skeins wound and ready to go so I won't waste time doing that chore once the knit a long begins on the 21st.
Maybe I should join the 52 pair plunge as well. I just hope my desire to knit socks all summer doesn't fizzle out or get lured away by some enchanting lace project or a snuggly sweater. Time will tell! At least I know I won't "need" to purchase more sock yarn for the SOS. Yeah right. Who am I kidding?
Sunday, June 15
I've been super lazy this week. The start of my week saw me working 40 hours in 3 days and that about wiped me out. I'm on a mini holiday as of yesterday though. It may be looking up in the relax and enjoy life department. I had a wonderful time at the relay for life, and managed to raise $300 for cancer research!. The night of the relay it stormed like the heavens were mad. But we walked in the torrential downpour anyways. Walking in the rain without caring how wet you are is quite liberating (until the lightning drives you into a tent with 12 other women).
There are prizes that have been sitting on my computer desk just waiting for me to send out. Ruinwen, and Patricia...they will be on their way to you this week. Thank you ladies. I really appreciate your generosity.
You are each getting one of the handspun skeins of laceweight:
Patricia, you will also receive the Yarn Harlot's Knitting Rules! book as well as the Silvia sock yarn
Ruinwen, the Socks that Rock yarn and the Squoosh Roving(you do now own a spinning wheel right??) If not I can find you something equally as pretty to knit.
Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!
There are prizes that have been sitting on my computer desk just waiting for me to send out. Ruinwen, and Patricia...they will be on their way to you this week. Thank you ladies. I really appreciate your generosity.
You are each getting one of the handspun skeins of laceweight:
Patricia, you will also receive the Yarn Harlot's Knitting Rules! book as well as the Silvia sock yarnRuinwen, the Socks that Rock yarn and the Squoosh Roving(you do now own a spinning wheel right??) If not I can find you something equally as pretty to knit.
Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!
Thursday, June 5
My creation
My creation
Originally uploaded by sarah_braund
Here's how to do it:
Directions:
a. Type your answer to each of the questions below into Flickr Search.
b. Using only the first page, pick an image.
c. Copy and paste each of the URLs for the images into fd’s mosaic maker.
The Questions:
1. What is your first name?
2. What is your favorite food?
3. What high school did you go to?
4. What is your favorite color?
5. Who is your celebrity crush?
6. Favorite drink?
7. Dream vacation?
8. Favorite dessert?
9. What you want to be when you grow up?
10. What do you love most in life?
11. One word to describe you.
12. Your flickr name. - (I had to use Vixenpath to get a result.)
Friday, May 30
A week to shape up
Only a week to go before I walk/jog/run my little heart out for my favorite charity. I've been working out lots lately trying to keep in top form so I don't hurt myself next weekend. I'm really looking forward to this (so long as mother nature co-operates). If you haven't donated already, there's still time, and I will try to find one or two more great prizes while I'm in Toronto this week .
What? I didn't mention I was going to Toronto? Yep..on Tuesday we will take my baby in for his last pre-op appointment at Sick Kids. I can't wait to have his surgery over and done with.
I'm still trying to figure out what to pack as travel knitting. I'm always over ambitious, and tend to pack every WIP I have, but this time I think I may focus on just one nearly done, or two projects. I really need to clear the decks for some summer knitting.
To distract you from the fact that I have no good knitting photos to show you, I will post this neat little shot of some Fearless Fibers Sock Yarn I wound a while ago. It made a neat little flower shape as I took it off the ball winder and I had to take some pictures. Does this ever happen for you?
*note: when going to the canadian cancer society website to donate to Relay For Life you will need to enter Sudbury Ontario as the city, along with my name Sarah Dupuis.
What? I didn't mention I was going to Toronto? Yep..on Tuesday we will take my baby in for his last pre-op appointment at Sick Kids. I can't wait to have his surgery over and done with.
I'm still trying to figure out what to pack as travel knitting. I'm always over ambitious, and tend to pack every WIP I have, but this time I think I may focus on just one nearly done, or two projects. I really need to clear the decks for some summer knitting.
To distract you from the fact that I have no good knitting photos to show you, I will post this neat little shot of some Fearless Fibers Sock Yarn I wound a while ago. It made a neat little flower shape as I took it off the ball winder and I had to take some pictures. Does this ever happen for you?
*note: when going to the canadian cancer society website to donate to Relay For Life you will need to enter Sudbury Ontario as the city, along with my name Sarah Dupuis.
Tuesday, May 13
Another Year Older, and Another Prize
Yesterday I celebrated another Birthday. I know I don't feel older, but apparently the calendar says so. It was a very nice day, started off with a big sleep ( I came off graveyard shift in the morning) And I woke up to the best family in the world trying their best to make my day special.
Speaking of special, check out this sky I woke up to this morning..the clouds were amazing! All lined up like little soldiers.
Sunday night (well technically Monday morning) I cast on some Birthday socks for me! They are the Froot Loop pattern from Knitty. What a fun knit! I am in love with the yarn..once again Blue Hands Fibers comes through with a squishy smooth yarn that I adore.
I bought this in January or February ( I think I blogged it too,but I'm too lazy to look it up) and it is the perfect match to this pattern. I can't wait to have these babies on my feet. Oh..and I signed up for the Summer of Socks.
I'm going to get my Sock Mojo on this summer..Quick sign-ups are almost closed!
I'm still digging up prizes for the draw..there's still lots of time to get in on the action. If you mention the draw on your blog, I'll throw an extra entry in the pot for you! If you have no clue what I'm talking about please see the post below. This is a really great cause, and I know I can reach my goal! Here's the latest addition to the prize basket:
This is Julia's Yarn Salvia Sock Yarn (2 Hanks) in Color 15. It is a nice blend of rust, oranges and browns. The photo just doesn't do it justice.
Again I want to thank all those who have already donated. Every penny helps. For those of you have already contributed, if you have already mentioned this on your blog you get an extra entry, and if you haven't yet, and do before June 3 I will throw your name in the pot again!
Have a great week .
Speaking of special, check out this sky I woke up to this morning..the clouds were amazing! All lined up like little soldiers.
Sunday night (well technically Monday morning) I cast on some Birthday socks for me! They are the Froot Loop pattern from Knitty. What a fun knit! I am in love with the yarn..once again Blue Hands Fibers comes through with a squishy smooth yarn that I adore.
I bought this in January or February ( I think I blogged it too,but I'm too lazy to look it up) and it is the perfect match to this pattern. I can't wait to have these babies on my feet. Oh..and I signed up for the Summer of Socks.
I'm going to get my Sock Mojo on this summer..Quick sign-ups are almost closed!
I'm still digging up prizes for the draw..there's still lots of time to get in on the action. If you mention the draw on your blog, I'll throw an extra entry in the pot for you! If you have no clue what I'm talking about please see the post below. This is a really great cause, and I know I can reach my goal! Here's the latest addition to the prize basket:
This is Julia's Yarn Salvia Sock Yarn (2 Hanks) in Color 15. It is a nice blend of rust, oranges and browns. The photo just doesn't do it justice.Again I want to thank all those who have already donated. Every penny helps. For those of you have already contributed, if you have already mentioned this on your blog you get an extra entry, and if you haven't yet, and do before June 3 I will throw your name in the pot again!
Have a great week .
Monday, May 5
I was gonna Show You a Disaster But..
I had planned on discussing my disaster with my newest FO but today I am so elated that I could never ever say anything bad about this....
I started this about 2 weeks ago, and was totally confident the whole way through about my yarn situation...until I reached the last 60 sts of the cast off...but we won't go there. ( Let's just say I love Elann, and how quick they ship stuff)
I am so thrilled with how this turned out. The colours in the photo are not very accurate ( the border is actually dark green, not black.
This blanket will be auctioned off for our local Sports Hall of Fame that my father in law is opening.
Now I'm just trying to dream up another colour scheme. Perhaps one in a solid colour.
I started this about 2 weeks ago, and was totally confident the whole way through about my yarn situation...until I reached the last 60 sts of the cast off...but we won't go there. ( Let's just say I love Elann, and how quick they ship stuff)I am so thrilled with how this turned out. The colours in the photo are not very accurate ( the border is actually dark green, not black.
This blanket will be auctioned off for our local Sports Hall of Fame that my father in law is opening.
Now I'm just trying to dream up another colour scheme. Perhaps one in a solid colour.
Wednesday, April 30
Rollin Rollin Rollin
The donations are starting to roll in, and I'm digging around for some more prizes . I really appreciate all of you who have given, or plan to give. I know times are tough all over, and it warms my heart when fantastic people like all of you are willing to reach a little deeper. I'm very fortunate to "know" all of you.(Even if it is only through e-mail and blogging)
Thankyou, Thankyou, Thankyou!
Oh ..and I do have some knitting content to blog about( a small disaster actually), but Mr.Man has decided the camera batteries are better used in his TV remote, so I'll have to post later tonight or tomorrow.
Thankyou, Thankyou, Thankyou!
Oh ..and I do have some knitting content to blog about( a small disaster actually), but Mr.Man has decided the camera batteries are better used in his TV remote, so I'll have to post later tonight or tomorrow.
Friday, April 25
Prize Patrol
I have a couple more prizes to give away for the Relay for life. Trust me..giving these up is Really hard! I hope they find a wonderful home!
First up: Socks that rock lightweight in the Monsoon colorway that I bought at Lettuce Knit in Toronto .
This one is so beautiful..greens, greys, blacks. My kinda colour.
And next up..4 oz of beautiful merino roving hand-dyed by Etsy seller Squoosh(knittinmama)
also stunning, and a dream to spin up!
Happy weekend everyone!
First up: Socks that rock lightweight in the Monsoon colorway that I bought at Lettuce Knit in Toronto .
This one is so beautiful..greens, greys, blacks. My kinda colour.
And next up..4 oz of beautiful merino roving hand-dyed by Etsy seller Squoosh(knittinmama)
also stunning, and a dream to spin up!
Happy weekend everyone!
Tuesday, April 22
Many Women
Many women in my life have had to fight long tough battles with cancer. This disease has caused my family such heartache and grief. I hope that one day we can find a cure..and I believe we will.
On June 6 2008 I will be participating in the Relay for Life sponsored by the Canadian Cancer Society. While my goal of $500 may seem small, I wanted to set it realistically and adjust it as necessary.
The knitting community has supported so many causes in the past, and I know it feels like someone is always asking for help, but here it is...one more time.
I've given up my yarn budget for 3 months to put towards this relay, and I would be so grateful for even a penny from yours. Help me reach my goal!! (my name is Sarah Dupuis if you are having trouble..and in SUDBURY Ontario (thanks Dee)
I'm going to start posting some prizes which will be raffled off after the relay. If you donate just send me an e-mail letting me know you did so (no need to tell me how much) and I will enter you in the draw. sarahUNDERSCOREbraundATyahooDOTcom. If you would rather pay by paypal, feel free to send it to the e-mail address above.
Winners will be drawn on Saturday June 7 .
The start of the prizes:(there will be more to come)
Prize 1.
2 Skeins of my handspun laceweight singles each about 1000 m . Each winner will receive 1 skein.
Prize 2.
A copy of The Yarn Harlot's Knitting Rules!
On June 6 2008 I will be participating in the Relay for Life sponsored by the Canadian Cancer Society. While my goal of $500 may seem small, I wanted to set it realistically and adjust it as necessary.
The knitting community has supported so many causes in the past, and I know it feels like someone is always asking for help, but here it is...one more time.
I've given up my yarn budget for 3 months to put towards this relay, and I would be so grateful for even a penny from yours. Help me reach my goal!! (my name is Sarah Dupuis if you are having trouble..and in SUDBURY Ontario (thanks Dee)
I'm going to start posting some prizes which will be raffled off after the relay. If you donate just send me an e-mail letting me know you did so (no need to tell me how much) and I will enter you in the draw. sarahUNDERSCOREbraundATyahooDOTcom. If you would rather pay by paypal, feel free to send it to the e-mail address above.
Winners will be drawn on Saturday June 7 .
The start of the prizes:(there will be more to come)
Prize 1.
2 Skeins of my handspun laceweight singles each about 1000 m . Each winner will receive 1 skein.
Prize 2.A copy of The Yarn Harlot's Knitting Rules!
Thursday, April 3
Anyone know a Podiatrist?
This post is a little overdue, (and pic heavy)but I wanted to chronicle my adventures in Toronto for
The Yarn Harlot's Inexplicable Sock Scavenger Hunt/Book Launch. I had the most amazing time!
I met so many wonderful people who I would never have had the pleasure to meet if it weren't for this event.
When I started blogging, I never imagined it would open up my world of knitting as it has. I'm very grateful every time I get to meet one of "my people". That was no exception this Tuesday.
Through the magic of Ravelry, I hatched a plan with Gretchen (knitmn on Ravelry) from St.Paul Minnesota to meet up at union station to do the scavenger hunt, maybe do some lunch, and go to see the Harlot speak at her book launch. Two knitters in different countries who have never met, (one blogless...and Gretchen, I know you want to start a blog..just sayin' ) meeting up in a city that neither of them live in. Most people would think this is nuts. I mean the other person could be an axe murderer for all you know. It's insanity. But here's the beauty of the knitting/knit blog community, I never gave it a second thought. Never have I met such wonderful, thoughtful, giving, friendly, compassionate people. Knitters are brave, knitters are up for anything, knitters are good people. Just looking at the staggering amount of money in the sidebar of Stephanie's blog could convince anyone, (muggles included) that knitters are among the best people I know.
My inexplicable day actually started much earlier than 1pm on tuesday(which is when we were meeting).
I hopped on a Greyhound at around 12:45 am on Tuesday morning, full of excitement, but hoping to catch some sleep. I was wearing this...
This was not to be though since it was pouring rain the whole way, and the bus ride was a bit rocky. No matter...I was headed to Toronto for 24 whole hours of un-interrupted fun. I cannot tell you how much getting a day away all by myself is..but I digress...
I arrived in Toronto at 5:30 am, and tried to figure out what I'd do until the late morning. I was to meet up with a couple of girls from Brantford at 11 am as well (Chris and Andrea..I'm so sorry we didn't hook up). So I made the trek to a Tim Horton's to grab some coffee, and a bagel for breakfast.
I decided since it wasn't too busy, that this might be a perfect opportunity for me to get my photo for the scavenger hunt. Let me tell you...this is not as easy as it sounds. The employee was so excited I asked her to hold the sock for a photo, and even began telling me about how she was a new knitter and wishes she could knit socks..when her manager came upfront from the kitchen and glared back at her. I quickly took my sock and headed back to my seat. I didn't want to get the poor girl in trouble, and she did have another customer walking into the store. I waited till it was all clear, then proceeded to the counter again to get my photo. She looked at me and whispered "you need to ask my manager if it's OK, I might get in trouble".
Huh? poor girl was terrified. So being bold..I strolled up to the manager, and explained the hunt to him..even showed him the list, and after about 5 minutes of trying to convince him I wasn't a lunatic, he agreed to the photo..."BUT ONLY IF NOBODY IS IN THE STORE" he said cause you know I might just ruin his image and scare away all the customers. Dude...it's 5:45 in the morning...I don't think you need to worry. Here's the pic.
So, with the first one out of the way I was feeling great. At this point it was still dark outside, and I had like 5 hours to kill, so I decided to go to the Subway and buy my day pass. Then just for kicks I hopped on the train and rode it all the way to the end of the line and back so I could knit on the sock a bit. I got off at union station about 7:30, and decided to shop a little, so I went down to the PATH ( an underground 20 km path that has lots of shops , coffee places, and places to eat).The only things I bought were gel insoles for my shoes, and blister bandages, but more on that later. I scooped up some Jugo juice, and made my way to the Hockey Hall of fame. Had another seat and took this pic:
Once my juice was done, I headed back to Union station to meet Chris and Andrea for 11 am.
Unfortunately, this was never to be...we missed each other some how, and by 12:00 I gave up.
I was so happy when 1 pm rolled around and I actually saw Gretchen! And because I'm such a dork, I didn't get one single photo of her! Let me just say that I totally lucked out getting her as my companion for the day. She rocks. So much so that I think I may become her stalker, and make a trip to Minnesota just so I can hang out with her again. Dudes, she owns a bar. Nuff said.
Oh and apparently we have some weird psychic connection, because we were both wearing our Central Park Hoodies. Total Fluke, although hers is much nicer than mine.
After taking some photos of the socks at Union Station, and with the CN Tower we headed back down to catch a streetcar to Lettuce Knit. Love.That.Place. Here's Megan the owner in all her cutesy pregnanty state. She's adorable, and she sells the best yarn ever. I want to marry her.
There's the hot chocolate we brought her on the counter. They make really yummy smelling organic goat's milk hot chocolate at the place a couple of doors down from her shop. Very cool little cafe. She makes them hand knit mug cosies ( I hope she gets free hot chocolate out of the deal). Guess who else I met there?
Jenna, who writes Girl From Auntie. Swoon. She's all cutsey and pregnanty too. She's holding my monkey sock for the photo of another Toronto Knit blogger. How cool is it that I have her for my photo. I had a little falling down at the store but managed to resist alot of the yarn fumes emanating from the place. After that, we decided we really needed to re-fuel with some lunch and beer, so we headed back down to Queen St, and decided to check out The Horseshoe Tavern
This pic was taken on the way there. I thought it turned out rather nicely so I've included it.
Let's call this one Grafitti Sock
We had intended on having our beer and food there, but we sat down and not a singlw person approached us to see if we needed anything, so we left and headed to the pub down the street. I think it was called The (Raging?)Bull Pub.
I had a descent veggie burger and fries, along with a Molson Canadian beer
(they had no Toronto indies) actually the waitress kind of looked at me funny when I asked her.
It's been a long time since I've had a beer that tasted this good. The wind had started to pick up and it was getting colder so we were parched by the time we got there. At this point I couldn't hide my excruciating pain from Gretchen, and admitted I needed to find some different shoes, or I'd be done for the day. Croc's were the first thing that came to mind, but walking an additional 10 minutes to get them just wasn't an option. So I got Flip flops at Claire's (which were a huge relief) and we walked down to King St to get our Walk of Fame photos.
Here's Margaret Atwood's star. Rachel H actually got Margaret Atwood to hold her sock and took an actual photo of the Lady Herself, which I could never compete with.
Once we were done there, we wandered down to University Ave again and decided it might be time to find coffee/tea and head to the main event, so we caught the train hopped off by the university and walked toward the theatre (we hoped) there was a few moments of uncertainty where we weren't sure we were walking the right direction, but all was well. We arrived at the Theatre, where Chris and Andrea finally tracked me down! Better late than never I suppose. They saved us a couple of seats, and we settled in to knit a bit and watch the show.
Let me just say, Stephanie is frickin' hilarious. I enjoyed every single underpants story. Such a smart cookie she is.
I apologize for the craptastic nature of the photo, but some guy decided that a room full of knitters didn't need the lights on. Once the talk was done, and MSF pins were bought, Gretchen and I decided to find out where on God's green earth the bar was so we wouldn't get lost.
Gretchen hooked us up...Amy (of Knitty) told her we could follow her to the bar. And so we did. We actually sat with Amy and Keri (kiwicanuck) who deigned that fantastic cable/lace/dropped stitch stole for the summer Knitty. More food and drinks were consumed, and there may have been a little yarn enabling discussion in which I may score some Noro sock yarn which I regretted not buying while I was at Lettuce Knit.
This is also a terrible picture, but It's not every day you get to have dinner with the Creator/Editor of your favorite online knitting mag. Amy by the way also has a new book which came out the same day as Stephanie's. I've got this one on the way to my mail box.
By the time I had to leave (to catch my bus back home at 1 am) my poor little feet were feeling like they were going to fall off. It was all I could do not to cry. As I write this, they are still too swollen to fit into my shoes, and the blisters are just...huge, and gross (I'll spare you the pictures I took of that) they were really bad. I wanted to stay longer but my body just couldn't do it. I hugged my new pal and made my way to the curb to hail a cab to the bus station. Man those guys are fast! I had 2 cabs stop at the same time for me with one single wave of the arm.
The whole day was surreal, inexplicable, wonderful, validating. I can't wait to do it again. I hope I get the chance to hang out with all of you again..next time, with better shoes!
The Yarn Harlot's Inexplicable Sock Scavenger Hunt/Book Launch. I had the most amazing time!
I met so many wonderful people who I would never have had the pleasure to meet if it weren't for this event.
When I started blogging, I never imagined it would open up my world of knitting as it has. I'm very grateful every time I get to meet one of "my people". That was no exception this Tuesday.
Through the magic of Ravelry, I hatched a plan with Gretchen (knitmn on Ravelry) from St.Paul Minnesota to meet up at union station to do the scavenger hunt, maybe do some lunch, and go to see the Harlot speak at her book launch. Two knitters in different countries who have never met, (one blogless...and Gretchen, I know you want to start a blog..just sayin' ) meeting up in a city that neither of them live in. Most people would think this is nuts. I mean the other person could be an axe murderer for all you know. It's insanity. But here's the beauty of the knitting/knit blog community, I never gave it a second thought. Never have I met such wonderful, thoughtful, giving, friendly, compassionate people. Knitters are brave, knitters are up for anything, knitters are good people. Just looking at the staggering amount of money in the sidebar of Stephanie's blog could convince anyone, (muggles included) that knitters are among the best people I know.
My inexplicable day actually started much earlier than 1pm on tuesday(which is when we were meeting).
I hopped on a Greyhound at around 12:45 am on Tuesday morning, full of excitement, but hoping to catch some sleep. I was wearing this...
This was not to be though since it was pouring rain the whole way, and the bus ride was a bit rocky. No matter...I was headed to Toronto for 24 whole hours of un-interrupted fun. I cannot tell you how much getting a day away all by myself is..but I digress...
I arrived in Toronto at 5:30 am, and tried to figure out what I'd do until the late morning. I was to meet up with a couple of girls from Brantford at 11 am as well (Chris and Andrea..I'm so sorry we didn't hook up). So I made the trek to a Tim Horton's to grab some coffee, and a bagel for breakfast.
I decided since it wasn't too busy, that this might be a perfect opportunity for me to get my photo for the scavenger hunt. Let me tell you...this is not as easy as it sounds. The employee was so excited I asked her to hold the sock for a photo, and even began telling me about how she was a new knitter and wishes she could knit socks..when her manager came upfront from the kitchen and glared back at her. I quickly took my sock and headed back to my seat. I didn't want to get the poor girl in trouble, and she did have another customer walking into the store. I waited till it was all clear, then proceeded to the counter again to get my photo. She looked at me and whispered "you need to ask my manager if it's OK, I might get in trouble".
Huh? poor girl was terrified. So being bold..I strolled up to the manager, and explained the hunt to him..even showed him the list, and after about 5 minutes of trying to convince him I wasn't a lunatic, he agreed to the photo..."BUT ONLY IF NOBODY IS IN THE STORE" he said cause you know I might just ruin his image and scare away all the customers. Dude...it's 5:45 in the morning...I don't think you need to worry. Here's the pic.
So, with the first one out of the way I was feeling great. At this point it was still dark outside, and I had like 5 hours to kill, so I decided to go to the Subway and buy my day pass. Then just for kicks I hopped on the train and rode it all the way to the end of the line and back so I could knit on the sock a bit. I got off at union station about 7:30, and decided to shop a little, so I went down to the PATH ( an underground 20 km path that has lots of shops , coffee places, and places to eat).The only things I bought were gel insoles for my shoes, and blister bandages, but more on that later. I scooped up some Jugo juice, and made my way to the Hockey Hall of fame. Had another seat and took this pic:
Once my juice was done, I headed back to Union station to meet Chris and Andrea for 11 am.Unfortunately, this was never to be...we missed each other some how, and by 12:00 I gave up.
I was so happy when 1 pm rolled around and I actually saw Gretchen! And because I'm such a dork, I didn't get one single photo of her! Let me just say that I totally lucked out getting her as my companion for the day. She rocks. So much so that I think I may become her stalker, and make a trip to Minnesota just so I can hang out with her again. Dudes, she owns a bar. Nuff said.
Oh and apparently we have some weird psychic connection, because we were both wearing our Central Park Hoodies. Total Fluke, although hers is much nicer than mine.
After taking some photos of the socks at Union Station, and with the CN Tower we headed back down to catch a streetcar to Lettuce Knit. Love.That.Place. Here's Megan the owner in all her cutesy pregnanty state. She's adorable, and she sells the best yarn ever. I want to marry her.
There's the hot chocolate we brought her on the counter. They make really yummy smelling organic goat's milk hot chocolate at the place a couple of doors down from her shop. Very cool little cafe. She makes them hand knit mug cosies ( I hope she gets free hot chocolate out of the deal). Guess who else I met there?
Jenna, who writes Girl From Auntie. Swoon. She's all cutsey and pregnanty too. She's holding my monkey sock for the photo of another Toronto Knit blogger. How cool is it that I have her for my photo. I had a little falling down at the store but managed to resist alot of the yarn fumes emanating from the place. After that, we decided we really needed to re-fuel with some lunch and beer, so we headed back down to Queen St, and decided to check out The Horseshoe TavernThis pic was taken on the way there. I thought it turned out rather nicely so I've included it.
Let's call this one Grafitti Sock
We had intended on having our beer and food there, but we sat down and not a singlw person approached us to see if we needed anything, so we left and headed to the pub down the street. I think it was called The (Raging?)Bull Pub.I had a descent veggie burger and fries, along with a Molson Canadian beer
(they had no Toronto indies) actually the waitress kind of looked at me funny when I asked her.
It's been a long time since I've had a beer that tasted this good. The wind had started to pick up and it was getting colder so we were parched by the time we got there. At this point I couldn't hide my excruciating pain from Gretchen, and admitted I needed to find some different shoes, or I'd be done for the day. Croc's were the first thing that came to mind, but walking an additional 10 minutes to get them just wasn't an option. So I got Flip flops at Claire's (which were a huge relief) and we walked down to King St to get our Walk of Fame photos.
Here's Margaret Atwood's star. Rachel H actually got Margaret Atwood to hold her sock and took an actual photo of the Lady Herself, which I could never compete with.
Once we were done there, we wandered down to University Ave again and decided it might be time to find coffee/tea and head to the main event, so we caught the train hopped off by the university and walked toward the theatre (we hoped) there was a few moments of uncertainty where we weren't sure we were walking the right direction, but all was well. We arrived at the Theatre, where Chris and Andrea finally tracked me down! Better late than never I suppose. They saved us a couple of seats, and we settled in to knit a bit and watch the show.
Let me just say, Stephanie is frickin' hilarious. I enjoyed every single underpants story. Such a smart cookie she is.
I apologize for the craptastic nature of the photo, but some guy decided that a room full of knitters didn't need the lights on. Once the talk was done, and MSF pins were bought, Gretchen and I decided to find out where on God's green earth the bar was so we wouldn't get lost.
Gretchen hooked us up...Amy (of Knitty) told her we could follow her to the bar. And so we did. We actually sat with Amy and Keri (kiwicanuck) who deigned that fantastic cable/lace/dropped stitch stole for the summer Knitty. More food and drinks were consumed, and there may have been a little yarn enabling discussion in which I may score some Noro sock yarn which I regretted not buying while I was at Lettuce Knit.
This is also a terrible picture, but It's not every day you get to have dinner with the Creator/Editor of your favorite online knitting mag. Amy by the way also has a new book which came out the same day as Stephanie's. I've got this one on the way to my mail box.
By the time I had to leave (to catch my bus back home at 1 am) my poor little feet were feeling like they were going to fall off. It was all I could do not to cry. As I write this, they are still too swollen to fit into my shoes, and the blisters are just...huge, and gross (I'll spare you the pictures I took of that) they were really bad. I wanted to stay longer but my body just couldn't do it. I hugged my new pal and made my way to the curb to hail a cab to the bus station. Man those guys are fast! I had 2 cabs stop at the same time for me with one single wave of the arm.
The whole day was surreal, inexplicable, wonderful, validating. I can't wait to do it again. I hope I get the chance to hang out with all of you again..next time, with better shoes!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)