Catching up a bit

I'm in the mood for a bit of housekeeping, so I took a few pictures.

I worked on these entrelac socks on my many airplane and bus rides on vacation. I even took them out a few times on the subway. This was the perfect project to bring with me. Sock knitting will always remind me of Korea. They had many stores dedicated to fancy, cute socks. Since you have to take off your shoes a lot in Korea, you need nice socks.

I sewed this purse for my trip. I wanted a crossbody bag that would keep my hands free. I made a zippered interior pocket to protect my passport, money, and boarding passes. (I lose things easily and it was a relief to know that they were safe and sound.)

I got the fabric at Joann's with a 40% off coupon. I really loved the colors. I got more compliments on this bag than anything I've ever made.

I also put a pocket on the strap for my iPod or camera. It was really handy. The pleats on the outside were an accident. I cut the lining too small. I love the look of the gathering. I plan to make other bags with deliberate pleats.

Months ago, I joined the Phat Quarter ATC Swap. I got my package late because the artist lives in England. The card she sent me was funny, a little sad, and very pretty. I was really honored to receive this.

Her packaging was also a treat. She wrapped everything, including some vintage buttons on a handmade card, in sewing patterns. Then she tied it all together with floss and a big button. It was such a treat to open a package like that. I am really inspired by Megan to pay more attention to how I mail things. There is no reason to be plain and boring.

There is a reason my patterns are free...

I am so sorry to anyone who has been struggling with my Lizard Ridge Socks (Ravelry link). I rewrote a lot of the pattern last night. I was trying to say repeat between** and other nonsense and it just wasn't working.

I cast on a Lady Lizard last night, working directly from the printout, rewording and clarifying as I knit. It should be more understandable now.

I am using some Noro Kureyon Sock (Ravelry link), a gift from the lovely and amazing Melissa. I would have to drive four hours to buy this yarn, so it's a treat. I am loving the results.

A lot of people on Ravelry have complained about the inconsistencies in the yarn, but I enjoy the spontaneity. It's like knitting with my handspun--the next stitch is always a surprise. The fabric is yummy and alive. The difference between this yarn and ordinary sock yarn is like the difference between a loaf of fresh, crusty bread from an artisan baker and a loaf of sliced bread from the grocery store.

Smells Like Moth Balls and Victory

I made an awesome score at the thrift store yesterday. I found a huge bag (trash bag size) of tapestry yarn. It's all 100% wool and the perfect weight for colorwork. I have many mittens in mind.

I'll also be writing up the pattern for my Lizard Ridge Socks. I got permission from the designer of the original afghan, so instructions will be available soon!

Yes, sir. Yes, sir. Three bags full...

We made a trip to Brown Sheep Co in Nebraska. I bought some wool.

I got 18 lbs of roving mill ends for my spinning pleasure. The roving they had on top of the mill waste was a candy cane striped chocolate brown and creme-colored swirly dream that my husband insisted that I buy. I can't wait to spin it into something tweedy and fun.

I also got some sock yarns, some Prairie Silk (for a gift for my BFF) and some Lamb's Pride Bulky that I plan to make a Juliet with.

I have a dyeing scheme planned for the Bulky. It involves using the family trampoline for a niddy noddy. Hmm.... we shall see.

By the way, nights in Yellowstone get down to 38 degrees Fahrenheit. Mosquitoes get really frisky when the evenings are cool.

A Gift

Sometimes a little joy shows up in the mailbox.

I won a blog contest from Indigo Blue. I have to say that I was really impressed. Not only was the handstitched keychain a wonderful gift, the packaging was almost another gift itself. The entire unwrapping experience was an experience.

I highly recommend that you stop by the shop. You can feel the love.