Good News: Kelley's socks (mostly) fit. She had a little trouble fitting them over her heel, but once they were on they seemed to fit well. Of course, if they were killing her feet, she wouldn't have told me because I think she feels bad that the first pair didn't fit and I've been working on these socks for a really long time. I just hope she likes them and she wears them.
Good News: My lace books came in from KnitPicks. I want to make everything in Victorian Lace Today. The photography in the book is great and it's so cool to read about the Victorian patterns that inspired the book. I also got Folk Shawls, which looks like an interesting book as well. I got some new yarn as well, and figured out what I'm going to do for the one coworker's baby blanket. Similar to the one I made for Maggie, but using sport-weight (so smaller squares) in fun, bright, springy, pretty colors. More specifically, KnitPicks Shine Sport in Aquamarine, Hydrangea, Butter, Blush, and Sky. My WIP bag looks like it's full of candy. Oh, and the dishcloth patterns I'll be using are butterfly, dragonfly, and flower. Totally girly. I'm so excited.
Good News: I'm almost moved out of my apartment. I think my brother will help me get the last boxes this weekend. The bad news is that it's killing my back. Doesn't take much, it seems.
Bad News: The other coworker's baby unfortunately did not live. I cried when I heard the news. I feel so awful for the family, to lose a child under any circumstances must be one of the most difficult things to experience. I've not yet had the opportunity to be a parent, but I can imagine that it must be heart-wrenching to go through.
But, Good News: They have a healthy and beautiful older child and they seem very strong and capable of handling this sadness. I wish them well in their healing process. I wish there was something I could do, but I'm not sure what a situation like this needs.
6.21.2007
6.06.2007
Confession
I have a confession. I'm in love with knitting lace. Yes, "technically" I haven't done very much lace knitting, and nothing major, but I'm still in love. For the past couple weeks I've been looking up free lace shawl patterns and getting lace books. I think I'm obsessed. The only problem is that I'm not really a shawl, stole, or wrap kind of person. I like scarves (love them in fact) but I don't foresee actually wearing any of the many (many many many) lacy items I want to make. So what do I do with them?
Of course I ask that question assuming I'll like it once I really get into it. For all I know, I'm wasting my time and money on all this lace stuff. I think I'll like it though. I think because it'll be a challenge. I love a good challenge.
The other thing I've found myself wanting to make is a baby sweater. There's a link from knitting pattern central for a baby teeshirt that says iCutie on it. It's perfect for my Mac-loving friends and their baby girl. I think that'll be another project I tackle.
One of the coworkers I was going to make a baby item for this summer had some bad news recently. It looks like the baby has a pretty serious heart problem and without a transplant, the baby will die shortly after being born. I think he's supposed to find out soon whether transplant is an option and if it is, they'll be put right on the list. I really hope they're candidates for a transplant. Now that my friends have had babies, I've come to realize even more how special and amazing a new baby is and to think that he and his wife may lose that is heart-wrenching. But if transplant is an option and the baby makes it, I really want to make something extra special for him, his wife, the big sister, and the baby. Because it's an extra miracle to survive that.
Of course I ask that question assuming I'll like it once I really get into it. For all I know, I'm wasting my time and money on all this lace stuff. I think I'll like it though. I think because it'll be a challenge. I love a good challenge.
The other thing I've found myself wanting to make is a baby sweater. There's a link from knitting pattern central for a baby teeshirt that says iCutie on it. It's perfect for my Mac-loving friends and their baby girl. I think that'll be another project I tackle.
One of the coworkers I was going to make a baby item for this summer had some bad news recently. It looks like the baby has a pretty serious heart problem and without a transplant, the baby will die shortly after being born. I think he's supposed to find out soon whether transplant is an option and if it is, they'll be put right on the list. I really hope they're candidates for a transplant. Now that my friends have had babies, I've come to realize even more how special and amazing a new baby is and to think that he and his wife may lose that is heart-wrenching. But if transplant is an option and the baby makes it, I really want to make something extra special for him, his wife, the big sister, and the baby. Because it's an extra miracle to survive that.
6.05.2007
Kelley's Socks
Proof that I did actually finish the socks. I just hope they fit her. It would really suck if they didn't. I'm proud of them and have vowed to not knit socks for a very long time. I'm sticking with bigger needles for the time being.
These got wrapped up (in Christmas wrapping of course) and are now waiting to be given to the recipient a few months late. I'm making sure they don't end up in one of the boxes going to storage because it might be a really long time before I see them again if they get in there.
Yup, storage. I'm moving. Just back home for a little while as I sort out what to do (buy a house, go back to school, etc.). There's no rent and I'll have lots of space to myself. I had to downsize the yarn stash a little though. That was unfortunate.
Next projects are the Clapotis in laceweight yarn, something for a coworker's baby, and then who knows. I'm sort of liking using laceweight yarns and I've been looking a lot at lace shawls/wraps/stoles. Maybe something like that will be next.
These got wrapped up (in Christmas wrapping of course) and are now waiting to be given to the recipient a few months late. I'm making sure they don't end up in one of the boxes going to storage because it might be a really long time before I see them again if they get in there.
Yup, storage. I'm moving. Just back home for a little while as I sort out what to do (buy a house, go back to school, etc.). There's no rent and I'll have lots of space to myself. I had to downsize the yarn stash a little though. That was unfortunate.
Next projects are the Clapotis in laceweight yarn, something for a coworker's baby, and then who knows. I'm sort of liking using laceweight yarns and I've been looking a lot at lace shawls/wraps/stoles. Maybe something like that will be next.
5.30.2007
Small Update
The socks are finished, washed, blocked, and dry. Now all I have to do is wrap them up and give them to Kelley. She wasn't able to see Pirates with us on Friday, so I'm hoping she and I can get together soon to do something and finally finish with Christmas '06. I really hope she likes the socks.
Right now I'm in the process of moving all my stuff back to my parents' house. It makes me realize how much crap I actually have. An insane amount. So far I've taken back a lot of clothes, most of my dvds and books, most of my yarn, and some other stuff. I think I'll be pretty ruthless when it comes to the rest of what's left at the apartment. Get rid of a bunch of it so I don't have to deal with moving it all around.
Right now I'm in the process of moving all my stuff back to my parents' house. It makes me realize how much crap I actually have. An insane amount. So far I've taken back a lot of clothes, most of my dvds and books, most of my yarn, and some other stuff. I think I'll be pretty ruthless when it comes to the rest of what's left at the apartment. Get rid of a bunch of it so I don't have to deal with moving it all around.
5.17.2007
Not busy
I like being busy. I know that when I am actually busy I complain about how busy I am and how there's not enough time in the day. But I do enjoy it. It prevents those moments where you think of other things you could be doing and that you'd rather be doing (like yarn shopping or knitting). It makes days you dread speed along and you don't even realize they're over until you're home and finally catching your breath. I like stress to a certain degree. Not to the point where I'm so stressed and frustrated that I start crying, but that stress that keeps you awake and moving. That's the kind of stress I like.
The problem is, I don't have enough of that going on at work. January to April flew by because it was one project after another and there wasn't enough time to do everything. And while I hated certain moments (working on weekends, for one), looking back on those 3-4 months doesn't fill me with extreme relief that it's over. It makes me want something like that to work on now.
For the past 3 years I've learned that my job has cycles. I'll go from being really busy to having almost nothing to do and no desire to do what I do have. I have months of boredom sometimes. I'm hoping that that won't be the case now that I have a new manager who seems interested in me being involved with things. But right now I'd love something time-sensitive to do. Just so I need to move faster and elevate the stress levels a little.
Maybe that's why, no matter what I tell myself, I always seem to have multiple kntting projects going at once. All I had left was to finish Kelley's socks. But then I needed a break from tiny needles and decided to start a Clapotis in laceweight on US 4s (looks lovely so far). And why I finally gave in to that skein of Malabrigo to make myslef a wonderfully warm and soft wool scarf. In May. I need the excitement and the variety of new things and multi-tasking and deadlines.
Of course then I go overboard and take on too much for the time I have. And I end up still working on my friend's Christmas present when it's 80 degrees outside and Memorial Day is right around the corner. And she has absolutely no need for wool socks in that weather. And I've got two baby blankets to make this summer. It'd be nice to find the middle ground.
I think next Friday (well, probably Wednesday so I can wash and let them air dry) will be the deadline for the socks. We'll probably see Pirates of the Caribbean on opening day and it would be a good time to give her a present. I will probably even wrap her socks up in Christmas paper, because I'm a huge dork that way.
5.08.2007
Sheep and Wool
I went to the MD Sheep and Wool Festival this past weekend. It's so much fun going there. I love touching everything and looking around. I need to remember for next year though that I should go to the inside booths first because by the time we got to them midday, it was insanely crowded and I got pretty claustrophobic. It meant I didn't buy anything, at least inside, but it was uncomfortable for me. Oh well.
I did get some lovely 50/50 wool/silk yarn (about 650 yds sportweight) that I have to find something to do with. I want to do something pretty and lacy, so I'll be looking around at patterns and may even venture to a library sometime to look through pattern books. I won't use it until I find the perfect pattern.
I also got some Merino roving to spin. It's dyed in pretty blues and purples and I can't wait to see what the yarn looks like. I've never actually spun anything before, despite having a drop spindle for a few months now. I'm thinking this will be the inspiration to learn.
Above is a WIP picture of one of Kelley's socks. I've since finished that one and have started the next. Hopefully they'll fit her. I took some measurements the last time I saw her, but it's not the same as having the person right there to keep trying them on as the socks progress. I'll keep fingers crossed that they do fit and that she likes them. The colors in the picture aren't really true to life--they're actually darker and richer and that brown-looking color is more of a mossy green. I think they're very pretty and I was glad the colors didn't pool too much.
I'm excited because Christine comes back to work today! I'm sure it'll be weird for her, but I hope she's excited to come back because I know the rest of us are excited to have her back. yay!
I did get some lovely 50/50 wool/silk yarn (about 650 yds sportweight) that I have to find something to do with. I want to do something pretty and lacy, so I'll be looking around at patterns and may even venture to a library sometime to look through pattern books. I won't use it until I find the perfect pattern.
I also got some Merino roving to spin. It's dyed in pretty blues and purples and I can't wait to see what the yarn looks like. I've never actually spun anything before, despite having a drop spindle for a few months now. I'm thinking this will be the inspiration to learn.
Above is a WIP picture of one of Kelley's socks. I've since finished that one and have started the next. Hopefully they'll fit her. I took some measurements the last time I saw her, but it's not the same as having the person right there to keep trying them on as the socks progress. I'll keep fingers crossed that they do fit and that she likes them. The colors in the picture aren't really true to life--they're actually darker and richer and that brown-looking color is more of a mossy green. I think they're very pretty and I was glad the colors didn't pool too much.
I'm excited because Christine comes back to work today! I'm sure it'll be weird for her, but I hope she's excited to come back because I know the rest of us are excited to have her back. yay!
4.25.2007
Quiet Time
You know that feeling when you come back to work after a vacation or long weekend and you realize you need more time off? I hate that feeling. Yesterday morning I felt so refreshed and energized, only to come in to work and have that sucked away almost immediately as I was reminded of my impending deadlines and other tasks. I think I'm just bored right now. I'd like to do something more creative in relation to my job instead of just the same old thing. Part of the biggest thrill of creating the help system for the new web software was changing colors and making it look nice. I may not be able to draw worth crap, but I have a creative streak that I'm just not using enough in my job. And I think that's unfortunate because given the opportunity, I think I come up with some really good creative ideas.
No wonder I've been knitting like crazy lately. It's my one creative outlet other than baking. And honestly, if my birthday month cake repertoire consists of 3 different cakes, that's not being too creative either. But people request one of two cakes. They're good, but I like making different things.
I think I've decided I'm in a rut. I'm hoping that moving back home will help with some of that. At least there will be a readjustment period. Both readjusting to living with my parents and leaving much earlier for work. That'll be a fun one.
I think that once I'm done Kelley's socks and finish the laceweight Clapotis (I like it so far) I'll do something that I've never done. Maybe even work on that manatee pattern I'm trying to create. Something that's different enough that I feel like I'm doing something creative even if I'm not able to at work. I think I'll talk to the boss and figure out what I can do to liven things up around here. I'd hate to start disliking my job simply because I'm bored.
No wonder I've been knitting like crazy lately. It's my one creative outlet other than baking. And honestly, if my birthday month cake repertoire consists of 3 different cakes, that's not being too creative either. But people request one of two cakes. They're good, but I like making different things.
I think I've decided I'm in a rut. I'm hoping that moving back home will help with some of that. At least there will be a readjustment period. Both readjusting to living with my parents and leaving much earlier for work. That'll be a fun one.
I think that once I'm done Kelley's socks and finish the laceweight Clapotis (I like it so far) I'll do something that I've never done. Maybe even work on that manatee pattern I'm trying to create. Something that's different enough that I feel like I'm doing something creative even if I'm not able to at work. I think I'll talk to the boss and figure out what I can do to liven things up around here. I'd hate to start disliking my job simply because I'm bored.
4.21.2007
Back from Vegas
The conference is over and I'm back. I got to meet lots of clients and have fun with coworkers outside of work. It was a nice change from the norm.
We stayed at the Red Rock hotel/casino/spa, which is pretty new. It's a gorgeous hotel. Really very nice. I think a lot of people were impressed with the accomodations and conference facilities. I only wish more of our clients were able to go.
I got to see the Strip from a car. And honestly, that's about as close as I really wanted to get. I'm not sure why I thought it'd be more glamorous than it was, but I wasn't as impressed as I thought I'd be. I mean, it's nice and all, but meh. Maybe because I'm not a gambler (I can honestly say I was in Vegas for 5 days and didn't gamble once) it just doesn't have that appeal for me. I don't think I'll be rushing back there anytime soon. It was a good experience, and it's nice to say I've finally been somewhere west of the Mississippi, but I don't think it's for me. I missed the green.
Next year the conference will be back here in MD, so I won't have to fly anywhere. I think more people will attend as well. I'm sure some managers were hesitant about sending someone to a conference in Las Vegas. Although I'm sure that instead of shipping everything I'll be responsible for driving everything to the conference. That's what mileage reimbursement is for.
I'm working on two projects right now. I finally decided on a pattern for Kelley's socks (Jaywalker from Magknits) and those are going well. I'm also doing a Clapotis in laceweight alpaca/silk. I hope it turns out nice. It's such soft yarn. The only problem now is making myself focus more on the socks and only work on the clapotis when my fingers are tired from dealing with tiny sock needles. I have a nice long weekend to work on stuff. I took yesterday and monday off for a break from everything. leading up to and including the conference I was doing work or work related things for 18 days straight (including weekends) so I think I needed a break. Not to mention that since January it's been non-stop stress and craziness for documentation. I plan on sleeping and knitting. And maybe listing more stuff on eBay, now that I've finally legitimately sold my laptop. the first two attempts were scams, so it's good that it's finally sold to a real person who doesn't want me to send it to Nigeria.
We stayed at the Red Rock hotel/casino/spa, which is pretty new. It's a gorgeous hotel. Really very nice. I think a lot of people were impressed with the accomodations and conference facilities. I only wish more of our clients were able to go.
I got to see the Strip from a car. And honestly, that's about as close as I really wanted to get. I'm not sure why I thought it'd be more glamorous than it was, but I wasn't as impressed as I thought I'd be. I mean, it's nice and all, but meh. Maybe because I'm not a gambler (I can honestly say I was in Vegas for 5 days and didn't gamble once) it just doesn't have that appeal for me. I don't think I'll be rushing back there anytime soon. It was a good experience, and it's nice to say I've finally been somewhere west of the Mississippi, but I don't think it's for me. I missed the green.
Next year the conference will be back here in MD, so I won't have to fly anywhere. I think more people will attend as well. I'm sure some managers were hesitant about sending someone to a conference in Las Vegas. Although I'm sure that instead of shipping everything I'll be responsible for driving everything to the conference. That's what mileage reimbursement is for.
I'm working on two projects right now. I finally decided on a pattern for Kelley's socks (Jaywalker from Magknits) and those are going well. I'm also doing a Clapotis in laceweight alpaca/silk. I hope it turns out nice. It's such soft yarn. The only problem now is making myself focus more on the socks and only work on the clapotis when my fingers are tired from dealing with tiny sock needles. I have a nice long weekend to work on stuff. I took yesterday and monday off for a break from everything. leading up to and including the conference I was doing work or work related things for 18 days straight (including weekends) so I think I needed a break. Not to mention that since January it's been non-stop stress and craziness for documentation. I plan on sleeping and knitting. And maybe listing more stuff on eBay, now that I've finally legitimately sold my laptop. the first two attempts were scams, so it's good that it's finally sold to a real person who doesn't want me to send it to Nigeria.
4.04.2007
The end of insomnia
Is it weird that I always seem to update here while I'm supposed to be doing something else, usually work-related?
No word on M's baby yet. I think if he/she doesn't arrive by Monday they'll induce. I just hope she doesn't have to go through what C went through with surgery and everything. That would suck.
Still busy at work. Not that you'd be able to tell because I apparently have time to blog, but I digress. The work is getting done and that's what matters. But I'll still be glad when I'm done and the conference is done and I get a couple days off. That will be nice.
Last night I slept better than I have in a long time. For the past 5 or so weeks I've been waking up somewhere between 2:45 and 5:30, wide awake. Well, awake and unable to get back to sleep for a significant amount of time. I think "wide awake" would be pushing it, considering how tired I'd be when it happened. I'm not sure what was causing it, although it's probably stress. However, I decided to sleep a little differently last night. So I put my pillow at the foot of the bed and slept reversed. And I don't know if it was a coincidence or what, but something worked. I still woke up at 3, but I was able to get back to sleep almost right away. The only other time I remember waking up was at 5 during the thunderstorm. I don't remember a lot of thunder, but there was a lot of lightning and my window was open, so I had to get up and close that so the rain didn't get in.
Part of it may have been that it was nice and cold last night and I was snuggled under my blankets in a little cocoon. I seem to sleep better when I'm able to bundle up like that. I'll have to remember to open my window back up so it's cold again tonight. The temperatures here will get chilly before it warms up again, so I'm looking forward to some cool nights. Because the whole not sleeping thing was getting old. I'd be so exhausted by mid-afternoon and so burnt out from lack of sleep and extra stress. Today feels good. I didn't want to get out of bed (and stayed in far too long as it was) because I was so comfortable and content. It's amazing how wonderful normal sleep feels when you haven't had it in a long time.
On the knitting front, I've almost finished a cushy-soft garter stitch blanket for a coworker's baby. I'm making it in Knit Picks Shine sport in Cream and Orchid (or Crocus, I can't remember off the top of my head). Something pretty and easy and nice for the summer months. It's refreshing to have mindless knitting, where the most thinking I'd have to do is twisting the yarns when I'd switch colors (the Cream is a border around the other). It's been a nice meditative project for the last couple weeks during the busiest of the busy time. I think I'll take Kelley's socks with me to Vegas to knit in my free time (I say that like I'll actually have any). Or I'll take something lacy to play with. Not quite sure yet.
I'm de-stashing quite a bit. Initially I'm trying to sell stuff on ebay, and if that doesn't work then I'll find somewhere to donate it. Seems to be working ok so far. My yarn has interest, it's the seed beads that aren't selling yet. I may have to do something else with those. Oh yeah, the reasons I'm de-stashing are because I'm moving back home for a money-saving-up year before buying a house, and because I've become a fiber snob. Knit Picks makes getting natural fibers so easy and cheap that I don't want to make acrylic baby blankets or garments anymore. Plus I just bought my first ever skein of Malabrigo in Velvet Grapes and I have to say it's the softest wool I've ever felt. I'm spoiled now. I think I'll be making My So-Called Scarf from it for myself. yummy yarn goodness. Can't wait until I have extra money again so I can get more.
No word on M's baby yet. I think if he/she doesn't arrive by Monday they'll induce. I just hope she doesn't have to go through what C went through with surgery and everything. That would suck.
Still busy at work. Not that you'd be able to tell because I apparently have time to blog, but I digress. The work is getting done and that's what matters. But I'll still be glad when I'm done and the conference is done and I get a couple days off. That will be nice.
Last night I slept better than I have in a long time. For the past 5 or so weeks I've been waking up somewhere between 2:45 and 5:30, wide awake. Well, awake and unable to get back to sleep for a significant amount of time. I think "wide awake" would be pushing it, considering how tired I'd be when it happened. I'm not sure what was causing it, although it's probably stress. However, I decided to sleep a little differently last night. So I put my pillow at the foot of the bed and slept reversed. And I don't know if it was a coincidence or what, but something worked. I still woke up at 3, but I was able to get back to sleep almost right away. The only other time I remember waking up was at 5 during the thunderstorm. I don't remember a lot of thunder, but there was a lot of lightning and my window was open, so I had to get up and close that so the rain didn't get in.
Part of it may have been that it was nice and cold last night and I was snuggled under my blankets in a little cocoon. I seem to sleep better when I'm able to bundle up like that. I'll have to remember to open my window back up so it's cold again tonight. The temperatures here will get chilly before it warms up again, so I'm looking forward to some cool nights. Because the whole not sleeping thing was getting old. I'd be so exhausted by mid-afternoon and so burnt out from lack of sleep and extra stress. Today feels good. I didn't want to get out of bed (and stayed in far too long as it was) because I was so comfortable and content. It's amazing how wonderful normal sleep feels when you haven't had it in a long time.
On the knitting front, I've almost finished a cushy-soft garter stitch blanket for a coworker's baby. I'm making it in Knit Picks Shine sport in Cream and Orchid (or Crocus, I can't remember off the top of my head). Something pretty and easy and nice for the summer months. It's refreshing to have mindless knitting, where the most thinking I'd have to do is twisting the yarns when I'd switch colors (the Cream is a border around the other). It's been a nice meditative project for the last couple weeks during the busiest of the busy time. I think I'll take Kelley's socks with me to Vegas to knit in my free time (I say that like I'll actually have any). Or I'll take something lacy to play with. Not quite sure yet.
I'm de-stashing quite a bit. Initially I'm trying to sell stuff on ebay, and if that doesn't work then I'll find somewhere to donate it. Seems to be working ok so far. My yarn has interest, it's the seed beads that aren't selling yet. I may have to do something else with those. Oh yeah, the reasons I'm de-stashing are because I'm moving back home for a money-saving-up year before buying a house, and because I've become a fiber snob. Knit Picks makes getting natural fibers so easy and cheap that I don't want to make acrylic baby blankets or garments anymore. Plus I just bought my first ever skein of Malabrigo in Velvet Grapes and I have to say it's the softest wool I've ever felt. I'm spoiled now. I think I'll be making My So-Called Scarf from it for myself. yummy yarn goodness. Can't wait until I have extra money again so I can get more.
3.28.2007
gren and golden
I got to wear flip-flops yesterday. If you know me at all then you know that I was extraordinarily happy being able to do that.
Work is busy lately and will be until almost the end of April. I think I'll be coming in to the office saturday to get some work done. Just too much for weekdays alone.
Spring is inching its way here. Yesterday was in the 80s, today in the 60s, tomorrow in the 50s. But it'll get back to the 60s. Weather here is weird sometimes. Not that I'm hoping for extremely warm temperatures anytime soon. I hate the hot and humid summer months. that weather can stay far away for as long as it wants. I'm in no hurry for that crap.
Still waiting on M's wee one. She's due this friday, so it's not like we're too anxious yet, but I'm so excited to see what she's having (boy or girl is still unknown) and to hear the name she'll pick.
A (C's daughter) gets cuter every day. We visited them on friday and it's amazing how much babies change in just a few short weeks. In a time where I feel like not too much has changed in my life, she's gone from sleeping all the time to being awake and alert, focusing her eyes, drinking in her environment, and even starting to show some facial expressions. Utterly amazing. She gazes at you as if she's trying to mark each one of your features in her memory. Babies are downright cool. Makes me want one (or a couple) even more than I did before. Someday.
all i have time for today. busy. and it's lunch time.
Work is busy lately and will be until almost the end of April. I think I'll be coming in to the office saturday to get some work done. Just too much for weekdays alone.
Spring is inching its way here. Yesterday was in the 80s, today in the 60s, tomorrow in the 50s. But it'll get back to the 60s. Weather here is weird sometimes. Not that I'm hoping for extremely warm temperatures anytime soon. I hate the hot and humid summer months. that weather can stay far away for as long as it wants. I'm in no hurry for that crap.
Still waiting on M's wee one. She's due this friday, so it's not like we're too anxious yet, but I'm so excited to see what she's having (boy or girl is still unknown) and to hear the name she'll pick.
A (C's daughter) gets cuter every day. We visited them on friday and it's amazing how much babies change in just a few short weeks. In a time where I feel like not too much has changed in my life, she's gone from sleeping all the time to being awake and alert, focusing her eyes, drinking in her environment, and even starting to show some facial expressions. Utterly amazing. She gazes at you as if she's trying to mark each one of your features in her memory. Babies are downright cool. Makes me want one (or a couple) even more than I did before. Someday.
all i have time for today. busy. and it's lunch time.
3.19.2007
Spring
I feel it coming. Even though it's cold outside right now, spring is on its way. The days are longer and the sun is warmer. Last week it was in the 70s a couple days. Yep, spring is definitely coming.
Good thing, too. I didn't think I was having seasonal depression, but I think I may have had a touch. Last night in the shower (before dyeing my hair--first time in a long time) I felt really good. Like the water was washing away this weight I've had all winter. Hard to explain, but I felt good. Happy. The kind of happy where you didn't even know you were that unhappy until the happiness comes. Not that I think it was that bad before the happy-revelation, but I noticed a change. Either that or I was having a really good day.
I think part of it has to do with some upcoming changes. One of which is me moving, probably back home for a little while. It's not that I haven't enjoyed living in my apartment, but I think I've been unhappy there. I feel like I have more driving-related stress (even though the commute is shorter) and just stress about the area in which I live. I just don't like it. I miss trees and grass and having a yard. I miss the quiet of the suburbs instead of the near-urbanness of Burtonsville/Silver Spring. I miss living in an area where my car isn't scratched and dented and has stickers and almost a license plate pulled off. Where I can't hear people having an all-day/all-night party. Maybe I'm homesick. I'm definitely town-sick. I miss R-town.
I think I'm also ready to be on my own (well, after living with my parents again and saving up enough money to be on my own, that is). To be able to decorate and live how I want without being second-guessed or judged for my opinions and taste. To be completely and totally myself. Maybe that's what I've missed lately. Being me. Or maybe realizing I don't know all the way who 'me' is. I think living on my own (bout damn time) will help me figure out that last step in determining who I am without relating it to someone. Not someone's friend, or sister, or roommate, or daughter. Just plain old Lauren. I think knowing me apart from those people will help me be a better me with those people, if that makes sense.
And if it doesn't, it's not like anyone actually reads this, so I can pretty much make all the nonsense I want to. It's sort of liberating in a way.
Enough with the self-awareness and soul-searching. Time to pack it in for the day. Never thought this entry would end up navel-gazing. I was just gonna talk about flowers and shit.
Good thing, too. I didn't think I was having seasonal depression, but I think I may have had a touch. Last night in the shower (before dyeing my hair--first time in a long time) I felt really good. Like the water was washing away this weight I've had all winter. Hard to explain, but I felt good. Happy. The kind of happy where you didn't even know you were that unhappy until the happiness comes. Not that I think it was that bad before the happy-revelation, but I noticed a change. Either that or I was having a really good day.
I think part of it has to do with some upcoming changes. One of which is me moving, probably back home for a little while. It's not that I haven't enjoyed living in my apartment, but I think I've been unhappy there. I feel like I have more driving-related stress (even though the commute is shorter) and just stress about the area in which I live. I just don't like it. I miss trees and grass and having a yard. I miss the quiet of the suburbs instead of the near-urbanness of Burtonsville/Silver Spring. I miss living in an area where my car isn't scratched and dented and has stickers and almost a license plate pulled off. Where I can't hear people having an all-day/all-night party. Maybe I'm homesick. I'm definitely town-sick. I miss R-town.
I think I'm also ready to be on my own (well, after living with my parents again and saving up enough money to be on my own, that is). To be able to decorate and live how I want without being second-guessed or judged for my opinions and taste. To be completely and totally myself. Maybe that's what I've missed lately. Being me. Or maybe realizing I don't know all the way who 'me' is. I think living on my own (bout damn time) will help me figure out that last step in determining who I am without relating it to someone. Not someone's friend, or sister, or roommate, or daughter. Just plain old Lauren. I think knowing me apart from those people will help me be a better me with those people, if that makes sense.
And if it doesn't, it's not like anyone actually reads this, so I can pretty much make all the nonsense I want to. It's sort of liberating in a way.
Enough with the self-awareness and soul-searching. Time to pack it in for the day. Never thought this entry would end up navel-gazing. I was just gonna talk about flowers and shit.
3.18.2007
Finished Socks
Since I've mentioned them in more than a couple entries (posts?) lately, I shall present the completed Roommate's socks. I bruised my finger with these from pushing the needle through tight loops. But they're done and they fit and she likes them. I used Yarncakes brand in Cinnaberry on US 1 needles. Pattern is Dublin Bay from here.
I have lots of yarn left over, probably because she has tiny feet. I'll give her some in case I need to make any repairs down the line and put the rest in my stash for later. I may be able to get some baby socks or something out of the leftovers. Dunno. Or a doily or something.
Now all I have left is Kelley's socks. And some easy (read: garter stitch) baby blankets. I'm about halfway done one sock and I'm a few rows into a blanket. I'm moving right along. Then I need to find something to do with this laceweight yarn I just had to buy and now I don't know what to do with. I think this summer will be knitting lace experimentation time. My other goal this summer is to make sure I have a full set of cold weather gear made by me for me. So far I have a hat and scarf, although I don't want my clapotis to become my default winter scarf. It gets too pilly. I'm thinking of getting some more of the purple Andean Treasure from knitpicks and making a scarf and some gloves/mittens from that. Then I'll have a matching set. That would be cool.
I think I may de-stash a little. I've got some Kureyon I don't know what to do with and some Lamb's Pride in the same boat. I guess I'll try to get rid of it on ebay. Maybe also some of the acrylic I bought forever ago and never did anything with. I much prefer using wool and cotton and alpaca now. Silly acrylic.
3.06.2007
Almost done
The end is in sight. Both for the project at work and my Christmas knitting. I finished one of Roommate's socks and will probably start #2 tonight. I needed a break from tiny needles for a little while. After that it's Kelley's socks, some simple baby blankets for the coworkers (3!) who are having babies in the next few months, and stuff for me. I just ordered some laceweight yarn to do something with. Who knows. But it looks pretty and it was inexpensive (I love KnitPicks!!!) so I won't feel too bad if it's not something I take to. I'd like to make a Clapotis in the smaller gauge as a light spring wrap. It's something I can take to the conference with me, hopefully.
Christine and the baby are doing well. She's so pretty and I'm totally in love with her. I will gladly be Auntie Lauren. Rachel will be up this weekend to visit for the first time since the behbeh was born, and she's very excited.
I'm ready for spring. Today was/is cold and windy and I'm not too keen on that. And I forgot my scarf, so it's doubly bad. At least I had my gloves.
Time to go home.
Christine and the baby are doing well. She's so pretty and I'm totally in love with her. I will gladly be Auntie Lauren. Rachel will be up this weekend to visit for the first time since the behbeh was born, and she's very excited.
I'm ready for spring. Today was/is cold and windy and I'm not too keen on that. And I forgot my scarf, so it's doubly bad. At least I had my gloves.
Time to go home.
2.21.2007
News
Christine had her baby Monday!! I'm so excited. I think I'm going to be able to get out of work early today to go visit and take a balloon to her.
I finished Maggie's other baby blanket. Pictures are in my Flickr set. Only one thing left and then I'm done. Need to make a Soapy the Soap Turtle for her. She loves turtles. I also still want to make a little stuffed Yoda for Christine too. Because she's a geek and I know she'll raise the baby to be a mini-geek.
Still working on Roommate's socks. I should work on those tonight since Bones isn't on. :( And Lost is on at 10 now, which is difficult to get used to. I'm glad I'm taping it, because last week I almost left in the middle to go to bed. I'm too old to be up that late.
Meeting in half an hour. No fun. But I'm still excited because I'm leaving at 4 to see Christine!!!
I finished Maggie's other baby blanket. Pictures are in my Flickr set. Only one thing left and then I'm done. Need to make a Soapy the Soap Turtle for her. She loves turtles. I also still want to make a little stuffed Yoda for Christine too. Because she's a geek and I know she'll raise the baby to be a mini-geek.
Still working on Roommate's socks. I should work on those tonight since Bones isn't on. :( And Lost is on at 10 now, which is difficult to get used to. I'm glad I'm taping it, because last week I almost left in the middle to go to bed. I'm too old to be up that late.
Meeting in half an hour. No fun. But I'm still excited because I'm leaving at 4 to see Christine!!!
2.15.2007
WIPs and the Cold
I've got 3 projects going right now: Maggie's blanket, roommate's socks, and my mittens. The last ones are a recent addition to the project list because it is freaking cold outside and as lovely as my Fetching are, they leave a little to be desired when it's as cold and windy as it's been. So I'm taking some spare Lamb's Pride Worsted in Periwinkle and making a pair of mittens for myself. I like the style of the Fetching so much that I'm using the cables and ribbing for these too, just making sure they cover all my fingers. I'm hoping they'll be nice and warm. I may felt them slightly so they're more solid, but I'll have to see how they turn out. I'm sort of guesstimating (god how I hate that word) the number of stitches, and I probably won't do a thumb gusset. These are meant to be quick and easy and hopefully ready soon.
I'm looking forward to a three day quiet weekend. Roommate is going home to visit her family so it's just me and the knitting. And the day I told myself I will use to clean my room. It's becoming too much of an obstacle course to get to my bathroom and blind as I am in the middle of the night (or anytime I don't have glasses on), I can't have too many things in my way. Don't want to fall down. Plus, then the maintenance guy can come in and fix the dripping faucet in my bathtub. It's v. annoying.
Christine is scheduled to be induced today. I'm continually sending happy thoughts and good wishes. Her husband is supposed to update us, and I don't know whether it's good or bad that I haven't heard from him yet. I'm going with no news being good news.
I've pretty much decided that I'll be moving back to my parents' house in June for a little while so I can save up money for a house purchase. I want to be financially stable rather than not when I start that process, and I don't think it's going to be possible with money going out for rent every month. At least when I'm paying for a mortgage it's an investment. Not just the amazing disappearing dollars.
I'm looking forward to a three day quiet weekend. Roommate is going home to visit her family so it's just me and the knitting. And the day I told myself I will use to clean my room. It's becoming too much of an obstacle course to get to my bathroom and blind as I am in the middle of the night (or anytime I don't have glasses on), I can't have too many things in my way. Don't want to fall down. Plus, then the maintenance guy can come in and fix the dripping faucet in my bathtub. It's v. annoying.
Christine is scheduled to be induced today. I'm continually sending happy thoughts and good wishes. Her husband is supposed to update us, and I don't know whether it's good or bad that I haven't heard from him yet. I'm going with no news being good news.
I've pretty much decided that I'll be moving back to my parents' house in June for a little while so I can save up money for a house purchase. I want to be financially stable rather than not when I start that process, and I don't think it's going to be possible with money going out for rent every month. At least when I'm paying for a mortgage it's an investment. Not just the amazing disappearing dollars.
2.13.2007
Procrastination
I started something last night that I've been promising since probably the late summer: my roommate's socks. Although, to be fair, they were supposed to be a Christmas present, so it's not like I'm 6 months behind. Just 2-ish. I got about 10 rows done and had to stop because my hands were cramping a bit. Probably due to a combination of tiny yarn and needles (the needles are size 1, or 2.25 mm in diameter) and the fact that I'd knit so much over the weekend. If I can get 10 or so rows done a night, then they won't take too long to do, hopefully. I'm still working on Maggie's other blanket at the same time. I wish I got snow days too. I'd get so much more knitting done.
Today the weather is crappy. It's gone from snow to ice and it looks fairly treacherous outside. I hope the drive home is ok. Something tells me people will be doing stupid things instead of driving sensibly. Oh well.
Christine is due anytime now. They're planning to induce on Thursday if the baby doesn't come on her own. Another coworker's wife had their baby yesterday. I gave him a blanket I'd made a long time ago and never had anyone to give it to. It's big and warm and soft, and I hope he likes it.
Today the weather is crappy. It's gone from snow to ice and it looks fairly treacherous outside. I hope the drive home is ok. Something tells me people will be doing stupid things instead of driving sensibly. Oh well.
Christine is due anytime now. They're planning to induce on Thursday if the baby doesn't come on her own. Another coworker's wife had their baby yesterday. I gave him a blanket I'd made a long time ago and never had anyone to give it to. It's big and warm and soft, and I hope he likes it.
2.12.2007
Animal Blanket
So here it is. The finished blanket. The evil thing that kept me knitting and finishing all weekend right up until I had to leave. The blanket that stopped all progress on the other blanket, meaning I wasn't able to finish that to include in the baby shower gift. The thing that prevented me from eating breakfast or lunch and made me watch Duplex on Comedy Central because I didn't want to take the time to change the channel.
I love this blanket so much. I seriously cried when it was done. I don't want go all ego about it and claim that it's the best work I've ever done and all, But Damn. I love this blanket. I love the colors and the animals and the border (one color on each side) and that it's soft and warm and can go in the washing machine even though it's wool. I love it. I'm so proud of it.
It's amazing what you can do when you purl instead of knit or vice versa. So simple and easy to make, but so lovely. I hope it lasts a long time.
I love this blanket so much. I seriously cried when it was done. I don't want go all ego about it and claim that it's the best work I've ever done and all, But Damn. I love this blanket. I love the colors and the animals and the border (one color on each side) and that it's soft and warm and can go in the washing machine even though it's wool. I love it. I'm so proud of it.
It's amazing what you can do when you purl instead of knit or vice versa. So simple and easy to make, but so lovely. I hope it lasts a long time.
2.09.2007
Baby shower
This sunday is the other baby shower I've been knitting for. I'll be glad when I can stop making little blankets. Not that I mind in the least. I'm just ready for something new and different. Of course, I recently found out that two more people at work are having babies, so I'll probably make something for them. And I have to remember to bring in the blue blanket I made forever ago for the one guy who knows he's having a boy. I hate being so gender stereotypical, but I don't know him extremely well and I already have the blanket. Besides, it would be crappy of me to knit blankets for the other two and not for him. Luckily they're not due till sometime over the summer, so I have time to work on other things first.
----
I woke up this morning at 4 and then again at 5:30. Well, by the time I looked at my clock after being awake for a while it was 5:30, so I probably woke up around 5:15. Normally I wake up at 6:15 (and get up closer to 7) so I was pretty annoyed. It's been happening a lot this week, this waking up super early. So I just got up and showered, left home around 7, stopped for coffee (mmm white chocolate mocha), and a couple groceries and was still at work by 7:40. I'm thinking I'll be leaving a little early today since it's friday and I'm sure I'll crash by the end of the day. I'm hoping I can stay awake tonight long enough to work on the other blanket that I'm trying to finish by sunday. That's the plan for tomorrow: grocery store and knitting. and knitting and knitting. Probably right up till it's time to leave on Sunday. But I hope not because I still will have to wash and block the other blanket. Gotta love the last-minute stuff.
Mental note, find those hats I finished forever ago.
----
I woke up this morning at 4 and then again at 5:30. Well, by the time I looked at my clock after being awake for a while it was 5:30, so I probably woke up around 5:15. Normally I wake up at 6:15 (and get up closer to 7) so I was pretty annoyed. It's been happening a lot this week, this waking up super early. So I just got up and showered, left home around 7, stopped for coffee (mmm white chocolate mocha), and a couple groceries and was still at work by 7:40. I'm thinking I'll be leaving a little early today since it's friday and I'm sure I'll crash by the end of the day. I'm hoping I can stay awake tonight long enough to work on the other blanket that I'm trying to finish by sunday. That's the plan for tomorrow: grocery store and knitting. and knitting and knitting. Probably right up till it's time to leave on Sunday. But I hope not because I still will have to wash and block the other blanket. Gotta love the last-minute stuff.
Mental note, find those hats I finished forever ago.
2.07.2007
Blanket
Only one square left to finish!! Then I need to wash and block all the pieces, or at least soak and block, then sew them together and do a final wash/block before Sunday at 2 pm. Obviously this isn't all the squares. I should finish the last square tonight and possibly be able to work on the other blanket as well. The only thing that might take my attention away is the return of LOST, which I'm extremely excited about.
I'm so excited about this blanket. I hope the finished product lives up to my mental image. I really just hope i can sew it together properly. I still don't really know how I'm going to accomplish that. i also need to figure out if I'm adding a border around the whole thing. If I am, then I don't know what I'll use. I have less than a ball of each color left. I guess i could do a little pick up and knit in seed stitch one side in each color. I also have a completely different yarn left over from Christine's blanket -- the Lorna's Laces -- but I don't know if that will go. Probably should have thought of that before it was too late to order more yarn. Also it just occurred to me that i probably should use the leftover matching yarn to do the sewing together. Although I wonder how it would look if I used yellow. I have some Swish Superwash I could use. Or really dark green somewhere. Or I could use acrylic. haven't decided yet.
I'm so excited about this blanket. I hope the finished product lives up to my mental image. I really just hope i can sew it together properly. I still don't really know how I'm going to accomplish that. i also need to figure out if I'm adding a border around the whole thing. If I am, then I don't know what I'll use. I have less than a ball of each color left. I guess i could do a little pick up and knit in seed stitch one side in each color. I also have a completely different yarn left over from Christine's blanket -- the Lorna's Laces -- but I don't know if that will go. Probably should have thought of that before it was too late to order more yarn. Also it just occurred to me that i probably should use the leftover matching yarn to do the sewing together. Although I wonder how it would look if I used yellow. I have some Swish Superwash I could use. Or really dark green somewhere. Or I could use acrylic. haven't decided yet.
2.01.2007
Life
Work has been hectic lately. I've had some pretty extreme ups and downs in the last couple weeks, going from feeling stupid and like I'm in the completely wrong place to feeling excited at what's coming in the future and the knowledge that I can get out of this funk. I'll be glad when the current project is over. The most fun part so far has been creating the skin for the Web help project. It's not even that cool but it allowed me to be a little more creative and know for sure that I knew what I was doing. Sort of a confidence booster.
In April I get to go to our conference in Vegas. I'm hoping it'll be fun. I've never been there before. I'm sure some parts will be not so much fun, like the seminars and things but I think I get to go out a little early so maybe I can see some sights before being stuck inside all day.
Still knitting the Never Ending List Of Projects. Actually, and end is in sight. I have two blankets to finish for Maggie's shower (little over a week) and then two pairs of socks. Then I can take a break or knit for me or charity or something. Well, I may make another baby blanket to send to a coworker but I would still be able to take a little break. I have a bunch of yarn I got from my aunt, mostly acrylic stuff, and I should find something to do with it.
I'm really excited about the one blanket I'm making for Maggie. It's made from squares based on dishcloth patterns and then sewn together. Because she has a forest theme in the baby's room, I'm using animals on the squares so I have a butterfly, dragonfly, frog, and turtle. I'm using white, blue, light green, and darker green for the squares. She doesn't know the sex of the baby and won't until it' s born, so I wanted to do something pretty neutral but not all greens and yellows. The other blanket I'm making for her is based on the Leaf Lace Panel blanket here done in KnitPicks ShineSport in Grass and Green Apple. It's so soft and squishy and beautiful. I love it, but it's taking a long time to make. I'm hoping I have them both done by the shower. The good thing is that the squares are super quick knits (about 2 hours each) so I feel like I'm making good progress there. The only other thing I want to have for her is a bath turtle. You put soap in the shell and scrub away. Fun :) But that gets started once the big things are finished.
In April I get to go to our conference in Vegas. I'm hoping it'll be fun. I've never been there before. I'm sure some parts will be not so much fun, like the seminars and things but I think I get to go out a little early so maybe I can see some sights before being stuck inside all day.
Still knitting the Never Ending List Of Projects. Actually, and end is in sight. I have two blankets to finish for Maggie's shower (little over a week) and then two pairs of socks. Then I can take a break or knit for me or charity or something. Well, I may make another baby blanket to send to a coworker but I would still be able to take a little break. I have a bunch of yarn I got from my aunt, mostly acrylic stuff, and I should find something to do with it.
I'm really excited about the one blanket I'm making for Maggie. It's made from squares based on dishcloth patterns and then sewn together. Because she has a forest theme in the baby's room, I'm using animals on the squares so I have a butterfly, dragonfly, frog, and turtle. I'm using white, blue, light green, and darker green for the squares. She doesn't know the sex of the baby and won't until it' s born, so I wanted to do something pretty neutral but not all greens and yellows. The other blanket I'm making for her is based on the Leaf Lace Panel blanket here done in KnitPicks ShineSport in Grass and Green Apple. It's so soft and squishy and beautiful. I love it, but it's taking a long time to make. I'm hoping I have them both done by the shower. The good thing is that the squares are super quick knits (about 2 hours each) so I feel like I'm making good progress there. The only other thing I want to have for her is a bath turtle. You put soap in the shell and scrub away. Fun :) But that gets started once the big things are finished.
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