tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-112998242024-03-07T19:25:50.779-05:00Knit WhimsiesKnitting, Spinning, Life, Etc.Kimberlyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12732661705111984318noreply@blogger.comBlogger322125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11299824.post-90968460437948118702009-12-07T22:40:00.003-05:002009-12-07T22:54:18.043-05:00Finding My NicheI've been busy working on Xmas knits, but I've also been contemplating how to make my Etsy shop successful. I've been reading articles and scoping out the shops of the highest sellers and have determined 3 things:<br /><br />1. supplies sell the best.<br /><br />2. good, artistic photos are essential.<br /><br />3. you need a niche product.<br /><br />What is MY niche product? I don't know. Knitted items really don't sell well. I guess there are just too many knitters out there & I've noticed that people really undervalue the effort that goes into making these items. I hear "I can get that cheaper at Target"... well, yes you can, but it won't be a high-quality, one of a kind, hand knitted item.. it will be a machine knitted item from China made with acrylic yarn! (but I digress)<br /><br />What I need is an item that is inexpensive and non-durable, so that I generate repeat business. I have a few ideas percolating in my brain and have even started on a prototype for one. I'm also thinking of getting back into hand-dying yarns, spinning more and maybe even doing yarn wholesale (but need to get my dba first).<br /><br />So for now I will just keep scheming, staying up late fleshing out ideas and praying that I can make this work, because really this is what I want to be doing for a living. I don't mind working 12 hours a day, 7 days a week, as long as it's something I love.Kimberlyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12732661705111984318noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11299824.post-30102703988361349882009-12-05T13:15:00.003-05:002009-12-05T13:24:01.032-05:00Yet Another CowlAs promised, here are pics of one of the cowls I finished.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdKI4-9QL8HulenCw94S4FO_210Vc94On3RS1SI7PCUPliQpB_P-YFtKWK5toSaCJ6QxhWrpCKaVGxXdfOQ6c2Vbg3Hk05cFUedvIntP0qUIBw16kLL6QKpKF1qB3q-0HhqYtgLA/s1600-h/DSC02209.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 157px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdKI4-9QL8HulenCw94S4FO_210Vc94On3RS1SI7PCUPliQpB_P-YFtKWK5toSaCJ6QxhWrpCKaVGxXdfOQ6c2Vbg3Hk05cFUedvIntP0qUIBw16kLL6QKpKF1qB3q-0HhqYtgLA/s320/DSC02209.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5411817833012071202" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_XdJQtkKt6yw-Zq_095jYaPmubje7ypaXL34ENCu6DU6Lqo11Ww7jCQ4IKbwscRUW9CmXuAyGyrOMrhJkR1FoOsH9RyHSGga6_a08DyTtgcarEsV1fKbC9yjJWijBfuk1teE6NQ/s1600-h/DSC02212.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 233px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_XdJQtkKt6yw-Zq_095jYaPmubje7ypaXL34ENCu6DU6Lqo11Ww7jCQ4IKbwscRUW9CmXuAyGyrOMrhJkR1FoOsH9RyHSGga6_a08DyTtgcarEsV1fKbC9yjJWijBfuk1teE6NQ/s320/DSC02212.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5411817831136576258" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRR71sKqF03_u8tRNYRvIUZxDuxWM3efPEYEv1xt8PIPD1cBcef8V2R1nxVuoKZSaYhShcAePlmvFGVAlRcr_RGRpdxQysQK4ODC81c7rO5d0EN55tUFQVTNROFmamNeNySa4gKw/s1600-h/DSC02215.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 310px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRR71sKqF03_u8tRNYRvIUZxDuxWM3efPEYEv1xt8PIPD1cBcef8V2R1nxVuoKZSaYhShcAePlmvFGVAlRcr_RGRpdxQysQK4ODC81c7rO5d0EN55tUFQVTNROFmamNeNySa4gKw/s320/DSC02215.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5411817826693088530" border="0" /></a><br /><br />This cowl was made using Merino that I spun a few years ago. I used the eyelet & flame chevron stitch from my Vogue Stitchionary, Vol. 1. I cast-on 112 stitches on size 9 needles. The finished cowl measures 26" in diameter & 7" wide. Yes, it is up on <a href="http://etsy.com/shop/knitwhimsies">Etsy</a>.<br /><br />The other cowl I finished just isn't up to snuff. It's pretty laying flat but looks like crap on, so I'm gonna frog it and try again. Might be a while before the redone is posted, I really need to get back to holiday knitting... only 20 days left! eek!Kimberlyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12732661705111984318noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11299824.post-57252696286579687682009-12-02T22:51:00.002-05:002009-12-02T22:59:16.787-05:00Knit, Knit, KnitI've been sick the last couple of days, but that doesn't mean I haven't been knitting! In fact I've finished off 2 more cowls! I will post pics once I have some daylight to do it in, my camera takes crap pics inside but loves natural light. I guess it's time for a new one, eh?<br /><br />In other news, I made my first etsy sale! It was for 2 pairs of dryer balls! I whipped up a few more of those, hoping to get regular business from them. <br /><br />Unfortunately, ArtFire seems to be a bit of a bust... just not getting any traffic there. I'd really like it to take off, but I'm going to focus my energies at Etsy for the time being.<br /><br />I'm also working up a new design for gloves. I've got an image in my head, but can't seem to find anything similar in my stitch libraries. I just don't know if I'll have the time to perfect the design & get the item knitted before Xmas.Kimberlyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12732661705111984318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11299824.post-8896035404619385732009-11-30T18:56:00.004-05:002009-11-30T19:06:54.967-05:00Cowl #3My first moebius scarf! I really like it. Simple, versatile & comfy!<br /><br />I knit it in simple garter stitch on size 10 circs. I wanted it to stretch a bit so it would have extra give when doubled up as a neck warmer. I also wanted it to be reversible due to its moebius nature. I used homespun yarn in a beautiful merino/silk blend that I spun back in 2005! Unfortunately my camera can't capture the richness of the color, but you get a bit of the shimmer in the first pic.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivvsIzxcVG3wkZ8C1w_Di7H3vkDUixJ4XCOVyvrhuXbEGWa4PxGznsa_XyWEsfvqRKYFZiz-pFGNOLw69GgaWAGwvNeYDoya3SPpaz6HvQl67i-e1-EMdQlM364B3nbO-wc54cJQ/s1600/DSC02194.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivvsIzxcVG3wkZ8C1w_Di7H3vkDUixJ4XCOVyvrhuXbEGWa4PxGznsa_XyWEsfvqRKYFZiz-pFGNOLw69GgaWAGwvNeYDoya3SPpaz6HvQl67i-e1-EMdQlM364B3nbO-wc54cJQ/s320/DSC02194.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5410051149954619074" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif_vqvf-cSeekXuqoamPrrASKB4e2w-WZ-SRijtXJWH6rTnHU43bxAso6Ul-ahfh0BPx4vXMbXqU0R4cslrMSV69V6bZkrE5VcEE0YZmp9Auw91P5YWOeuN9fhz6oxQ26dZ8t2WQ/s1600/DSC02196.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 226px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif_vqvf-cSeekXuqoamPrrASKB4e2w-WZ-SRijtXJWH6rTnHU43bxAso6Ul-ahfh0BPx4vXMbXqU0R4cslrMSV69V6bZkrE5VcEE0YZmp9Auw91P5YWOeuN9fhz6oxQ26dZ8t2WQ/s320/DSC02196.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5410051153848148690" border="0" /></a><br />I also whipped up a bunch of wool dryer balls this weekend!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji_7_TSfpnr6hrKSy2Bq0Av8OI_UhOULlZIuBorgOXFI1euA3K8y-f7zpe1reZ9WsLq083_-7_wvd_4Vsy52HgBDnak6HL9Bo_4rVWZk4VG06PQlpD4mWDZrSL3Ur8BPVb0mkwEg/s1600/DSC02205.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 286px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji_7_TSfpnr6hrKSy2Bq0Av8OI_UhOULlZIuBorgOXFI1euA3K8y-f7zpe1reZ9WsLq083_-7_wvd_4Vsy52HgBDnak6HL9Bo_4rVWZk4VG06PQlpD4mWDZrSL3Ur8BPVb0mkwEg/s320/DSC02205.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5410051157850673474" border="0" /></a> I had a great time doing that! For those who haven't heard about them, they are just felted balls of wool. You pop 3 or 4 of them in the dryer instead of dryer sheets... they naturally reduce static and improve your drying time and the lanolin from the wool acts as a fabric softener! I tried them out with my towels yesterday and they work great, plus you can use them over & over again! I've got some for sale on ArtFire & Etsy. :)Kimberlyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12732661705111984318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11299824.post-16625323013848568422009-11-30T07:42:00.001-05:002009-11-30T07:43:27.020-05:00Cyber MondayHey all! I'm offering free shipping today on my items at <a href="http://www.artfire.com/users/knitwhimsies">ArtFire!</a> :)Kimberlyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12732661705111984318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11299824.post-34429483591097296022009-11-28T15:26:00.003-05:002009-11-28T15:34:43.630-05:00Futher DistractionTrue to my word I put Autumn's scarf on the back burner and whipped up another cowl...<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH_ChsVZIj_fMpgWO34AUlrNSTqdQIZDBB9DQmFONJRnc92dDtU24944ytmjw49UjpSfjCGg4gjEHG2hmyFoGrFKadJyw7Qv7GdKGm3SYx0yb9w8UbUMszZPpnGZUaaFH14i1R4g/s1600/DSC02153.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 254px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH_ChsVZIj_fMpgWO34AUlrNSTqdQIZDBB9DQmFONJRnc92dDtU24944ytmjw49UjpSfjCGg4gjEHG2hmyFoGrFKadJyw7Qv7GdKGm3SYx0yb9w8UbUMszZPpnGZUaaFH14i1R4g/s320/DSC02153.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5409253914864378514" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-W16Hr7AXixnN7eO0nsxgMuobeun_b6I0VIs4CxGsk9q1pVLYoC94BEnKrnSma8b8ujfD7YlpaG5RuANVBIXvoP9UepjOBl5xM4nISU4W8yM8Q0MUdQx8lzar_v_M4MmfRErGmw/s1600/DSC02155.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 247px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-W16Hr7AXixnN7eO0nsxgMuobeun_b6I0VIs4CxGsk9q1pVLYoC94BEnKrnSma8b8ujfD7YlpaG5RuANVBIXvoP9UepjOBl5xM4nISU4W8yM8Q0MUdQx8lzar_v_M4MmfRErGmw/s320/DSC02155.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5409253920751601570" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">Lace Detail</span><br /></div><br />This used one skein of <a href="http://www.blueskyalpacas.com/yarn_detail.php?yarns_ID=13">Blue Sky Alpacas Brushed Suri</a> yarn in Toasted Marshmallow. I cast-on 108 sts on size 8 circ. and used the Meandering Eyelet Vines pattern from <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Vogue-Knitting-Stitchionary-One-Dictionary/dp/1931543771">Vogue Stitchionary, Vol. 1</a>. <br /><br />I absolutely love this cowl. I can not possibly convey how soft and warm it is. I just listed it on Etsy, but will not be sad if this one doesn't sell. I will totally have to make one for myself! :)Kimberlyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12732661705111984318noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11299824.post-16515765273869886332009-11-27T10:23:00.004-05:002009-11-27T10:41:10.472-05:00DistractionAs stated in my previous post, I fell in love with the giant braided cable! While knitting away I thought it would make a lovely cowl. So, I put down the x-mas present, picked up my size 10s and began knitting away on a cowl in bulky plum alpaca!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDXjP_8s78ehhc_AOW_sD6uNAB2DbmbFXh1guZOPzy-69s_C7cRV4NhLFTVfajIPZkmYqyTAOqUk5QuFMmSr0-gNkWgRfh3sW-mB16FvFmFN1bevFZ_tLLJZP4D_w1DeVUC8v8zw/s1600/DSC02147.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 122px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDXjP_8s78ehhc_AOW_sD6uNAB2DbmbFXh1guZOPzy-69s_C7cRV4NhLFTVfajIPZkmYqyTAOqUk5QuFMmSr0-gNkWgRfh3sW-mB16FvFmFN1bevFZ_tLLJZP4D_w1DeVUC8v8zw/s320/DSC02147.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5408806928687542050" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2b46eIc5dalyLN0GrPSgJrTSs2dRGoKQCSsT_nBx0aLTISM8EeXzCWDoDV2uW2bDFJiDcZIFe7S5R-D9zywAHhyphenhyphenfkd60pg58RVaNf3XziZ62XiHLpvt0m5wGoEJfzjdAFvCz1IQ/s1600/DSC02138.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 270px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2b46eIc5dalyLN0GrPSgJrTSs2dRGoKQCSsT_nBx0aLTISM8EeXzCWDoDV2uW2bDFJiDcZIFe7S5R-D9zywAHhyphenhyphenfkd60pg58RVaNf3XziZ62XiHLpvt0m5wGoEJfzjdAFvCz1IQ/s320/DSC02138.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5408806924972558514" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9OauUuXhVX3C7HWLR6f4ucC2Tu40cSfxLBmiRBi4xpzCheKGsod5tf3bIsvM-qCujcsOWOInBGj_ZbiXK9GriNdfqa1ksC-PuTqkGZKJXmXwb5YvqhNTAtP3LP0UdBK2QZi0sag/s1600/DSC02137.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 261px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9OauUuXhVX3C7HWLR6f4ucC2Tu40cSfxLBmiRBi4xpzCheKGsod5tf3bIsvM-qCujcsOWOInBGj_ZbiXK9GriNdfqa1ksC-PuTqkGZKJXmXwb5YvqhNTAtP3LP0UdBK2QZi0sag/s320/DSC02137.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5408806919106565954" border="0" /></a><br /><br />I cast-on 31 sts and knit 4 rows in seed stitch. I knit 5 stitches of seed stitch on the edges and used just shy of 1 skein (110yds) of Plymouth Baby Alpaca Grande colorway 2213. I added a couple bamboo toggle buttons as fasteners. The cowl measures 19"x5".<br /><br />I added this to my Etsy shop late last night & already had 10 views by this morning (which is huge compared to my other offerings). I think the hooded scarf is going to take a back seat this weekend while I try to whip up similar items and see if I can't generate some sales!Kimberlyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12732661705111984318noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11299824.post-85271180895450371652009-11-25T16:03:00.002-05:002009-11-25T16:11:05.281-05:00Progress ReportThe scarf so far...<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4QDTot2oZAgDrs8xl3hdUtHRcfYosS50XlpdcqP22b99pMbv_lhWuBcUuue2FRXBUK-D2pQmvF7WVjGh8ypFo_tf6ZOPhrXDrhNqpWArQAUh4HijMjpRUHG_fR4y_poBpd2ej7g/s1600/DSC02104.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4QDTot2oZAgDrs8xl3hdUtHRcfYosS50XlpdcqP22b99pMbv_lhWuBcUuue2FRXBUK-D2pQmvF7WVjGh8ypFo_tf6ZOPhrXDrhNqpWArQAUh4HijMjpRUHG_fR4y_poBpd2ej7g/s320/DSC02104.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5408150086439740098" /></a><br /><br />I love the giant cables! This is the first time I've knitted anything with cables this large (usually a 2/2 or 3/3 this is a 7/7!). I love the softness of it! <br /><br />Another modification: the pattern calls for knitting the scarf portion in 2 parts and then joining in the middle... I can see no reason for this so I'm just knitting the scarf as one length. Hopefully I will have the scarf done this weekend and can move on to knitting the hood. I'd love to have this finished by next weekend so I can move on to other items.<br /><br />BTW- For Thanksgiving I'm giving free shipping on my <a href="http://www.artfire.com/users/knitwhimsies">ArtFire Items</a> for buyers in the US! Please, take advantage of me! ;)<br /><br />Happy Turkey Day!!Kimberlyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12732661705111984318noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11299824.post-19812743588089128032009-11-22T19:32:00.004-05:002009-11-22T19:41:37.671-05:00Let the Knitting BeginHoliday Knitting has begun!<br /><br />First up:<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://interweaveknits.com/images/backissues/toc-winter-2008/Pfeiffer-Falls-Hooded-Scarf-3.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 233px; height: 350px;" src="http://interweaveknits.com/images/backissues/toc-winter-2008/Pfeiffer-Falls-Hooded-Scarf-3.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /> Pfeiffer Falls Hooded Scarf by Anne Kuo Lukito from <a href="http://interweaveknits.com/preview/2008_winter.asp#Pfeiffer-Falls-Hooded-Scarf">Interweave Knits Winter 2008 issue</a>. This is for Autumn. I'm knitting it in <a href="http://www.knitpicks.com/yarns/Comfy_Worsted_Yarn__D5420171.html">Knit Picks Comfy</a>, Planetarium colorway. It's a beautiful deep blue that her mom says will match her winter coat nicely. :)<br /><br />Modifications so far - no pockets (who puts pockets on a scarf?!) and am using size 9 needles. Will post images soon.Kimberlyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12732661705111984318noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11299824.post-29689484117812029862009-11-20T12:39:00.001-05:002009-11-20T12:43:20.214-05:00Art Fire Vs. EtsySo in an attempt to actually sell something, I've cross-listed my Etsy items on ArtFire. I like that ArtFire doesn't charge a listing fee or take a cut of your sale price... it's absolutely free to sell there! You can upgrade your account to list as many items as you like and access all kinds of features. If I end up selling anything there I will probably do this. It's not as pretty or as well known as Etsy, but that may work in my favor because there isn't as much there. Who knows.<br /><br />What do you think of the shops?<br /><br />Here is my <a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&seller_id=58179">ArtFire Studio</a><br /><br />and here is my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/knitwhimsies">Etsy Shop</a>.<br /><br />Any input would be appreciated!Kimberlyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12732661705111984318noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11299824.post-90841592572317340022009-11-19T18:07:00.005-05:002009-11-19T18:30:48.972-05:00A Leg Up2 Things:<br />1. I finished <a href="http://www.knitty.com/ISSUEspring04/PATTanouk.html">Anouk!</a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0ilNlROgKlM2TzAtv-JDO1WA-H3eWwrwFZfboQN9ws3Kb00tQ24fEbYKTPXxxT7GiVkMAsNJ5xN_u13Kw4IsyIsauefCTBFnMVGcnRWpwOdj3pFbBCcFRDr0b4GXBTUREkzzwlQ/s1600/DSC02100.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 229px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0ilNlROgKlM2TzAtv-JDO1WA-H3eWwrwFZfboQN9ws3Kb00tQ24fEbYKTPXxxT7GiVkMAsNJ5xN_u13Kw4IsyIsauefCTBFnMVGcnRWpwOdj3pFbBCcFRDr0b4GXBTUREkzzwlQ/s320/DSC02100.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405960358956134034" border="0" /></a><br />2. I made a Leg!<br /><br />I got inspired this weekend after seeing a tutorial on <a href="http://etsylabs.blogspot.com/2007/03/dress-form-tutorial-want-to-make-exact.html">how to make a custom dress form</a> (which I'm totally going to do) and thought it might work for other body parts as well. I got to thinking about how I've really wanted mannequin legs/arms for the modeling of socks & mittens and wondered if I could apply this technique.<br /><br />So, if you want to make your own model leg, here's what I did...<br /><br />First, wrap your foot & leg in plastic wrap:<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8c2hsCLlKCcKk-4EqbgcA-0A_owJX9iAzzR0BeY0fF18jCp55BktclcEafv_pXk2hyv0nzpXplPrEnS77nXnDdOnKRzpQf1nRucsdMp4qv3hHSq12Jt5nOc2R5F6hbrmt_71zZQ/s1600/DSC02084.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 230px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8c2hsCLlKCcKk-4EqbgcA-0A_owJX9iAzzR0BeY0fF18jCp55BktclcEafv_pXk2hyv0nzpXplPrEnS77nXnDdOnKRzpQf1nRucsdMp4qv3hHSq12Jt5nOc2R5F6hbrmt_71zZQ/s320/DSC02084.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405956685012610018" border="0" /></a>Then, wrap your leg with duct tape. I recommend using strips & not simply winding the roll around your leg. This will give you smoother lines and will prevent you wrapping your leg too tightly & cutting off circulation. The smaller/thinner strips will allow you to create greater definition on the heel & toes as well. I did 3 layers of tape.<br /><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6ieuHktVYj-c_0TsSwFWW75Z_u9SV4gg8fK__qka0gmbU815uFJf7hetOUs-J62sHgBu7ehKbazHbIr1D98TSlWRftoCR1OdrO0CxU2yCXNVVRvuULHGkE9u4aswwQoVgeoJlXg/s1600/DSC02087.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 254px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6ieuHktVYj-c_0TsSwFWW75Z_u9SV4gg8fK__qka0gmbU815uFJf7hetOUs-J62sHgBu7ehKbazHbIr1D98TSlWRftoCR1OdrO0CxU2yCXNVVRvuULHGkE9u4aswwQoVgeoJlXg/s320/DSC02087.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405956691298200786" border="0" /></a>Once you have finished taping, gently tease the tape & plastic wrap away from your leg and cut down the side using very sharp scissors.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTeysQQ-o3lBejDaq6bjhRTYvR3YVhrEJ8UcyyZlkIAOXLzG1xP5M_yk_HUWdfdBNYHbpFpXaYL6On8IeDUkvi5DgjPhngNo_xnR5-Z85lgVKW4zzSaMptnmiRzfAvPPW7UqE9pQ/s1600/DSC02088.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 290px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTeysQQ-o3lBejDaq6bjhRTYvR3YVhrEJ8UcyyZlkIAOXLzG1xP5M_yk_HUWdfdBNYHbpFpXaYL6On8IeDUkvi5DgjPhngNo_xnR5-Z85lgVKW4zzSaMptnmiRzfAvPPW7UqE9pQ/s320/DSC02088.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405956694672712194" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjJo4wkaKRXLflOCszu75YwGlXYXYA1Hsk5NTWE4RUg4U4nzS3do9JBhVkWRGyC3_4nY-RTZTbd4IUaUT_SMbJnGV1ENgZ7uXsTi7dgFegWPlb0OfUadbOSVkQYXms5dh_SzmFAQ/s1600/DSC02089.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 188px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjJo4wkaKRXLflOCszu75YwGlXYXYA1Hsk5NTWE4RUg4U4nzS3do9JBhVkWRGyC3_4nY-RTZTbd4IUaUT_SMbJnGV1ENgZ7uXsTi7dgFegWPlb0OfUadbOSVkQYXms5dh_SzmFAQ/s320/DSC02089.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405956695678450834" border="0" /></a><br />The plastic wrap I used (<a href="http://www.glad.com/plasticwrap/pressnseal.php">Glad Press 'n' Seal</a>) adhered to my leg a little too well, so you may want to use something not so sticky. The tape allows for a good bit of flexibility so removing the form isn't too difficult, however the getting your foot out can be a bit tricky... Like a pair of boots that are a size too small!<br /><br />After you've removed the form, tape the cut edges back together and stuff the form with newspaper. Viola!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWcls6v6FNS2BscdefpLgU0Eitl5GmRJXUviugs5h-W8atRAyKmar_AzCVP3u_sADhK67BYZy8-7BwNAdxdrtn1wL0PWXVvr9-d4RSOLj4BnY7Oc-xfxi-g89bsJ3QGfXhWbgS6A/s1600/DSC02092.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 160px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWcls6v6FNS2BscdefpLgU0Eitl5GmRJXUviugs5h-W8atRAyKmar_AzCVP3u_sADhK67BYZy8-7BwNAdxdrtn1wL0PWXVvr9-d4RSOLj4BnY7Oc-xfxi-g89bsJ3QGfXhWbgS6A/s320/DSC02092.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405956701694961234" border="0" /></a><br />I plan on playing with paper maché and decoupage to try and pretty it up a bit and add extra stiffness. I'll let you all know how it goes!Kimberlyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12732661705111984318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11299824.post-40950624642457626732009-11-14T10:41:00.003-05:002009-11-14T10:51:37.744-05:00OK, So I Lied!Yeah. I lied. I promised to blog more in August and here it is November and it's only my second post of the year!<br /><br />I blame facebook. I spend all my computer time there these days & have only just started getting back to Ravelry and blogs. I have been knitting however, and doing a bit of spinning. I've also opened an Etsy shop (check sidebar) to try to raise a little extra income because my hubby is still in need of work.<br /><br />Currently I'm working on a dress for my friend's new baby niece. The pattern is <a href="http://knitty.com/ISSUEspring04/PATTanouk.html">Anouk</a> from <a href="http://knitty.com">Knitty</a>. I'm using the same yarn but the body is pink and the trim is white. The pockets will have a white background and purple flowers. Depending on how much yarn I have left, I may even make a complimentary diaper cover.. we shall see! I will post project pics later.<br /><br />No promises, but hopefully I'm back. :)<br /><br />btw- how do you like the new look?Kimberlyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12732661705111984318noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11299824.post-17666583879549696122009-08-07T11:44:00.002-04:002009-08-07T11:48:56.775-04:00That's right, I knit!I can't believe it's been over a year since I've posted here! Wow. So,life kinda interfered and I haven't even thought of blogging in ages. Short version, hubby got laid off, father had a heart attack and subsequent triple-bypass surgery, and mom is still bed ridden. So with all that going on I haven't had time to knit, let alone blog about knitting. <br /><br />A few days ago I picked the needles back up to start on a baby sweater for my cousin and I thought it might just be time to come back to the blog. Hopefully I can keep it up again. <br /><br />Thanks for reading. :)Kimberlyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12732661705111984318noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11299824.post-586796800685155572008-05-29T18:01:00.005-04:002008-05-29T18:12:15.624-04:00Excited!I received my monthly newsletter from the fabulous <a href="http://www.threadbearfiberarts.com/index.php">ThreadBear</a> this morning and was jolted awake when I saw this: "<span style="font-weight: bold;">Announcing Workshops with the Fabulous CookieA</span>"! Fabulous indeed! I quickly skimmed the newsletter for the relevant information: 2 workshops, one on top-down sock design and the other on toe-up design, $35 fee... 16 person limit!<br /><br />I hurriedly dialed the store & they still had spaces (I think my excitement greatly amused the lady on the phone)! So, this September I will be taking a 3hr design workshop with <a href="http://www.cookiea.com/">Cookie A</a>.<br /><br />Oh! And <a href="http://trekcelt.blogspot.com/">Trek</a> received her socks!<br /><br />There is is much Squeeage going on today. :)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Note: Please excuse the excessive use of the word "Fabulous" in this post. Apparently I need a thesaurus. :)</span>Kimberlyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12732661705111984318noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11299824.post-56601564367767022692008-05-25T08:24:00.005-04:002008-05-25T08:52:22.112-04:00Trek's SocksI've finished Trek's socks!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2400/2518376331_713a88f2e7.jpg?v=0"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px;" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2400/2518376331_713a88f2e7.jpg?v=0" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />Overall I'm very pleased. They are drying now and should be on their way to her on Tuesday. :)<br /><br />I've cast-on another pair of socks (surprise) for another swap I joined. It's a <a href="http://www.terrypratchettbooks.com/">Discworld</a> themed swap called "Music With Socks In" that's being held through <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/">Ravelry</a>. The idea is that you make your partner a pair of socks (or send them the necessary items to make their own) and include a cd or 2 in the package. Since there is a possibility that my partner might read my blog (it's not a secret swap) I won't be posting any project details until I've shipped. I'm very excited about this swap. I wasn't able to go with my first idea for the socks, but I think she will love what I'm doing. And the music aspect is great, I'm having a lot of fun going through my collection for ideas!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Edit: </span>Oh! I almost forgot to tell you a bit of exciting news! There's a yahoo group that is dedicated to translating knitting patterns into foreign languages and they've requested permission to translate my <a href="http://knitwhimsies.blogspot.com/2005/06/mjs-mary-jane-style-slippers-pattern.html">MJs</a> pattern! I'm so geeked!Kimberlyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12732661705111984318noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11299824.post-38025587529290964522008-05-13T22:20:00.006-04:002008-05-13T22:39:57.378-04:00Weekend in VermontThis past weekend I went with Honey to Vermont for a couple of <a href="http://www.slambovia.com/">Circus</a> shows. There really isn't much to relay about the trip. The weather was lovely and I got to actually spend time with a few people that I've met at the shows. Of course, the only pictures I took ended up being far too dark and I've been unable to successfully clean them up so far.<br /><br />I was able to sneak in a little yarn shopping. There was a gift shop in the tiny town we were at and at the very back there was a small yarn shop, which was stocked with some pretty nice stuff. I couldn't resist picking up this:<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2246/2490020825_0b52a496ce.jpg?v=0"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px;" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2246/2490020825_0b52a496ce.jpg?v=0" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: left;">2 skeins of Araucania Nature Cotton in sage green. It is incredibly soft! I haven't seen the yarn locally, so that was all the incentive I needed to buy it. I've no idea what I'm going to make with it yet. Thankfully, I don't have to worry about dye-lot if I end up needing more. It's all hand-dyed, so there will be variation no matter what! :)<br /></div></div><br />And the 28hr round-trip drive gave me time to knit this...<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3138/2490041877_ce216e05d3.jpg?v=0"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3138/2490041877_ce216e05d3.jpg?v=0" alt="" border="0" /></a>Trek's Sock<br /></div><br />I've finished the first sock and have started the second. I'm just past the cuff now, but hopefully I finish it up this weekend.<br /><br />The yarn is really lovely to work with, although it is pooling something awful. Even so, the sock is still quite pretty. I was originally going to do a fancy rib pattern, but the darkness of the yarn hid the pattern. Instead I went with a simple 2x2 rib for the cuff and stockinette for the leg & foot. I did a slip stitch heel for a little oompf.<br /><br />Now I just hope they fit! :)Kimberlyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12732661705111984318noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11299824.post-69299701481632060132008-05-04T09:06:00.004-04:002008-05-04T09:24:02.122-04:00Coming AlongI've been a knitting fiend the last few days. I was home sick with a stomach bug on Thursday & Friday and was able to get quite a bit done on my Highland Shawl.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3130/2464379406_037be70d60.jpg?v=0"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3130/2464379406_037be70d60.jpg?v=0" alt="" border="0" /></a>Not a great image, I know. The color is a bit washed out and you can't really see the lace, but that gives you an idea of how much is done. I've finished the body and started knitting the lace edging last night. I really can't wait to finish this, it's going to be so soft & warm! Yippie!<br /><br />I'm going to wind up the Shibui Sock yarn for <a href="http://trekcelt.blogspot.com/">Trek's</a> socks today and try to finish my pattern search. My initial thought was to do the Retro Rib Socks by Evelyn Clark (Interweave Knits, Fall 2004):<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3291/2464411874_45cddb9ca8.jpg?v=0"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3291/2464411874_45cddb9ca8.jpg?v=0" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />However, on further thought I think these might be a bit too patterned for her. She said she prefers simple stockingette or ribbed socks. Opinions?Kimberlyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12732661705111984318noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11299824.post-52065903444597339502008-04-29T17:01:00.004-04:002008-04-29T17:14:03.286-04:00Cast OnThis weekend I finally decided to knit something, other than socks, for myself. I finally frogged the Lift & Separate Wrap that I started knitting in September 2006. I had finished the sleeves, but never got around to knitting the body of the sweater and after almost 2 years I figured it was time to reclaim the yarn, which is yummy Alpaca With A Twist Baby Alpaca in fawn.<br /><br />This is it's current incarnation...<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2280/2449797617_3f1191b142.jpg?v=0"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px;" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2280/2449797617_3f1191b142.jpg?v=0" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />The Highland Triangle Shawl from Folk Shawls. This is the center portion of the shawl and that beautiful trim will be knit on after the body is complete. The lace pattern is fairly easy to memorize and it's moving along rather quickly since it's knit on whopping Size 8 needles! ;)<br /><br />Lets just hope I don't get too distracted by this...<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2288/2449798461_5aa4c4ee26.jpg?v=0"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px;" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2288/2449798461_5aa4c4ee26.jpg?v=0" alt="" border="0" /></a>Shibui Knits Sock yarn in Midnight. Isn't it gorgeous? The color was a bit of a surprise because the website's image showed it as being much darker, but I love it. This is for Trek's socks, although I may have a hard time parting with it. The yarn is super soft & springy! I can't wait to get knitting with it.Kimberlyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12732661705111984318noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11299824.post-22313066256929696222008-04-28T19:24:00.003-04:002008-04-28T19:50:36.330-04:00All Sewn UpThe weekend before last I went out to my folks and my mother very obviously hinted that she would like a lap blanket for when she is in her wheelchair. She even showed me a knitting pattern, which was absolutely hideous. <br /><br />Now, I love my mum, but there is no way I was going to spend the time and energy knitting a blanket only to have it destroyed the first time she uses it. Because of her medical conditions, she is uncoordinated and she often falls asleep in mid-sentence... this combined with a full cup of juice or food and a hand knit blanket spells disaster.<br /><br />Instead I decided to sew her a blanket. This would fulfill her wish, would make life easier on my sister & father because it would be machine washer/dryer friendly, and save me a lot of time, money & sanity.<br /><br />So Saturday afternoon I spent a few hours whipping this up while watching Jane Austen movies. I got a baseline for the size from the pattern she showed me. The pattern also had a strap that fastened around the waist to keep it from falling off. It used buttons, but I figured velcro would work much better. :)<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3014/2450621306_feb11f84cb.jpg?v=0"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3014/2450621306_feb11f84cb.jpg?v=0" alt="" border="0" /></a>Materials: 2 1/4 yds cotton fabric (45" width),<br /> 45x60 cotton batting & sew-on velcro<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2401/2450621548_87291f5498.jpg?v=0"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px;" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2401/2450621548_87291f5498.jpg?v=0" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3265/2449796479_5477121c6f.jpg?v=0"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3265/2449796479_5477121c6f.jpg?v=0" alt="" border="0" /></a>The finished blanket is about 34"x43". Unfortunately I made the fastening straps a bit too long and will have to trim & resew them. Still, I'm happy with it and honey thinks my mom will love it and that's all that matters. :)Kimberlyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12732661705111984318noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11299824.post-84791062757466083222008-04-27T08:25:00.003-04:002008-04-27T11:01:43.353-04:00Hubby Meme<p><a href="http://woowooteacup.wordpress.com/">Mary</a> tagged me with this great meme that is all about hubby! :)<br /><strong></strong></p><p><strong>Where did you meet?</strong> I was in a play, fancied this guy and he dragged me to a party at his friends' house. Honey was the friend. I know it sounds awful, but we didn't actually start dating until 6 months after I broke up with the guy who introduced us. Still, said guy was none too pleased about the whole thing. :)</p><p><strong>How long did you date?</strong> About 6 weeks & then he proposed. However, we waited a year & a half to get married.<br /></p> <p><strong>How old is he?</strong> 4 years older (he'll be 40 this year).<br /></p> <p><strong>Who eats more?</strong> We eat about the same. Sometimes he eats more, sometimes I do.<br /></p> <p><strong>Who said “I love you” first?</strong> Hubby. Immediately after he got a nasty phone message from my ex.<br /></p> <p><strong>Who is taller?</strong> Hubby. He's 6'2", I'm only 5'5"<br /></p> <p><strong>Who sings better?</strong> Him, without a doubt. He is a fantastic musician and singer. He writes great songs too, even wrote one for me. :) He used to perform a lot in his twenties, but now me, the dog & cats are pretty much his audience. I always wanted to sing well, but as my sister will tell you, I can't. I can carry a tune but that's it.<br /></p> <p><strong>Who is smarter?</strong> We both have higher than average IQs and I believe we are of equal intelligence, although he may be a bit more cunning than I.<br /></p> <p><strong>Whose temper is worse? </strong>Mine. Hands down. I have a pretty short fuse and get snippy quite easily. Kris is pretty unflappable. I think I've only really seen him mad twice in 12 years.<br /></p> <p><strong>Who does the laundry?</strong> Pretty much me. He does the odd load, but that is usually his own clothes. He's a bit leery about doing mine after a few disasters early in our relationship<br /></p> <p><strong>Who sleeps on the right side of the bed? </strong>He does.<br /></p> <p><strong>Who pays the bills?</strong> He does.<br /></p> <p><strong>Who cooks dinner?</strong> We both do. It's about 25/25/50 (him/me/take-out). :)<br /></p> <p><strong>Who drives when you are together? </strong>Usually me. I'm a driving control freak. Unless we are taking a road trip, then he does all the driving.<br /></p> <p><strong>Who is more stubborn? </strong>I think we are both pretty flexible, I don't think either of us is particularly stubborn.<br /></p> <p><strong>Who kissed whom first?</strong> He kissed me. It was so cute. He asked if I minded if he kissed me.<br /></p> <p><strong>Who is the first to admit to being wrong?</strong> I think we are both pretty good at recognizing when we are being irrational. No one is always apologizing first.<br /></p> <p><strong>Whose parents do you see the most?</strong> I'd say it's about 50/50. But he talks to his mom way more than I talk to my parents, like almost every day.<br /></p> <p><strong>Who proposed?</strong> He did. It was our first Valentine's Day together and we were at a Chinese restaurant. He got down on his knees and proposed after reading his fortune cookie. Since then I have to screen all his fortune cookies. :)<br /></p> <p><strong>What’s his best physical attribute?</strong> I love his eyes and his giant nose! :)<br /></p> <p><strong>Who has more friends?</strong> Him. He is a people person and gets along with everyone. I sooo do not.<br /></p> <p><strong>What are you most proud of him for?</strong> For having the courage to follow his passion, even though it means I'm spending most weekends alone.<br /></p> <p><strong>Who has more siblings?</strong> we each have a sibling.<br /></p> <strong>Who wears the pants in the family?</strong> Well, since his salary is 3x mine, I guess that would be him. However, he is not my "lord & master" and doesn't have veto power. We are partners.<br /><br />Ok. So, who to tag? How about <a href="http://eviltuesdays.blogspot.com/">Devin</a> (you're engaged so you're qualified), <a href="http://www.hissyknit.blogspot.com/">Christy</a>, <a href="http://www.phro5gg.blogspot.com/">Claudia</a> & <a href="http://vixenpath.blogspot.com/">Ruinwen.<br /></a>Kimberlyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12732661705111984318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11299824.post-71003194343882500552008-04-22T18:24:00.003-04:002008-04-22T18:42:43.404-04:00Clapotis ScarfOMG! A F.O.! :)<br /><br />Behold the <a href="http://www.knitty.com/ISSUEfall04/PATTclapotis.html">Clapotis</a> Scarf...<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3296/2434420291_454d4fa944.jpg?v=0"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3296/2434420291_454d4fa944.jpg?v=0" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2290/2435235826_a05feafb29.jpg?v=0"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px;" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2290/2435235826_a05feafb29.jpg?v=0" alt="" border="0" /></a>detail<br /></div><br /><br />Project Notes:<br />Yarn: J. Knits Softee Alpaca in New Jersey (which I received in the Discworld swap)<br />Needles: US 4 (3.5 mm)<br /><br />Modifications: Because I was going for a scarf and the pattern is actually for a shawl I had to make a modification, I increased to 47 stitches instead of 107. I also sized down the needle to a US 4 instead of a US 8, so as to work better with the yarn.<br /><br />I love the result. It's a beautiful, light & airy scarf that is perfect for warmer weather, which is what I was going for. The yarn is a bit scratchy on the neck, but I'm hoping that will disappear with the addition of a little fabric softener.<br /><br />The pattern is fairly quick & easy to knit up as well. And I got great satisfaction in purposely dropping stitches!<br /><br />Overall, I'm very happy. I'm a little upset it took me so long to finish, but as long as I'm typing for a living my hands/wrists are going to continue bothering me and that means no knitting during the week. :(Kimberlyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12732661705111984318noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11299824.post-9824247022274572832008-04-21T18:12:00.002-04:002008-04-21T18:18:37.354-04:00Contest ResultsI hit 20,000 visits! Whee!<br /><br />Thanks so much to every who has visited my blog, especially those of you have commented. I really appreciate it and enjoy reading your comments. I wish I could give you all a prize, but a girl can only knit so much. :)<br /><br />Now, onto the results. I placed all the entries into a hat and had honey draw.<br /><br />The winner is...<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://trekcelt.blogspot.com/">Trek</a>! <br /></div><br />Congrats! I'll be sending an email to you shortly to get your details.Kimberlyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12732661705111984318noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11299824.post-62163493196680292742008-04-19T08:30:00.006-04:002008-04-19T08:38:27.193-04:00I'm Such A DumbassI finally started typing up the pattern for the <a href="http://knitwhimsies.blogspot.com/2007/10/autumns-bittersweet-heart.html">Bittersweet Heart</a> socks. In fact, I've got the whole pattern done including charts.<br /><br />I was just going to start calculating the stitches needed for different sizes when I discovered that I didn't actually write down my GAUGE when I was making up the pattern.<br /><br />I guess I'm going to have to reknit.<br /><br />Idiot.<br /><br /><br />(btw- less than 100 hits to go for the <a href="http://knitwhimsies.blogspot.com/2008/04/20000th-visitor-contest.html">contest</a>! squee!)Kimberlyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12732661705111984318noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11299824.post-7425392819374279852008-04-17T22:13:00.003-04:002008-04-17T22:34:00.151-04:00Seriously PeevedI just watched I Am Legend...<br /><br />I knew better. Really I did, but I just couldn't help myself. I knew from the moment I saw the first preview before it was even released that my viewing this movie could really tick me off. I guess I'm a glutton for punishment.<br /><br />Now you may be thinking, it wasn't the best movie but what's there to be peeved about? The fact that other than the title and the name of the main character the movie bares no relation whatsoever to the actual novel. Really. None. Read the book. It won't take you long, it's only a few hundred pages.<br /><br />You'll be struck immediately by the fact that in the novel Robert Neville is not a doctor, he's actually a blue collar guy who lives in a suburban area (in Kansas if I remember correctly). And while he is looking for a cure, he's winging it from stuff he's picked up in library books. Oh, and the monsters are actually vampires who have all there cognitive functions... not mindless zombies. There is actual interaction between him and the vampires, in particular his former coworker/neighbor.<br /><br />I don't want to give away the whole plot, but the book is an excellent study of isolation & morality. The ending is brilliant. It actually gives you something to think about and discuss. Not the sappy movie ending "he saved us all" crap. <br /><br />(sigh) Perhaps Beowulf will be better...Kimberlyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12732661705111984318noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11299824.post-20234069337905977132008-04-15T16:48:00.001-04:002008-04-15T16:49:59.697-04:00I Can Haz Theremin?How friggin' cute is this?<br /><br /><object height="355" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/0ONJfp95yoE&hl=en"><param name="wmode" value="transparent"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/0ONJfp95yoE&hl=en" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" height="355" width="425"></embed></object>Kimberlyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12732661705111984318noreply@blogger.com2