Hey ho, What's Afoot?

A foot! 2 of them actually!

Finally the central portion of the sock is done! The stitches have been divided, (and everything is all a bit awkward right now) and work has begun on the foot portion of the sock.

At this point the center bottom of the sole is 5 inches long, and the instep is 0 inches long (OK, maybe 0.25 inches)--The sole needs to be 9 inches (4 more inches) and the instep needs to be 7 inches. At the same time, the 80 stitches I started the foot with need to be decrease—to something closer to 66 or 68- so there is going to be some shaping going on—short row shaping.

To the left of the image are the stitches (on holders) for the leg; to the right the stitches for the foot. (By the stitch marker, a few stitches on the top instep) 

The foot portion (and the leg portion) started out with 80 stitches each. So step one is decreasing—which will be done on the center top of the sock. The first few rounds (that 0.25^th's of an inch) were all decrease rounds The first 3 rounds after joining the top of the foot were worked with 2 decreases per round (80 minus 6) and one set of increases--(the sole portion of the foot has been increasing 2 stitches every 3^rd round for several inches now, and I want to keep that up (and keep the bias fabric in place.) But decreasing every round is too steep a slope. So now the decrease will proceed at 2 every other row.

BUT—If I am going to continue the bias patterning—with every 3^rd round, there will need to be a set of increase on the sole. So I will be both decreasing (on the instep) and increasing (on the sole)--but at different rates.

Taken over 12 rounds, there will be 4 sets of 2 increase (8 increases in 12 rounds) on the sole, and 6 sets of decreases on the instep (12 decreases in 12 round) or a net of 4 stitch decrease—which is not enough.

So I will sneak in a few short rows, and after 12 full rounds, and 2 sets of short rows, the will be 8 increases on the sole, and 16 decreases on the instep-- a net of 8 decreases 

The count now is  76 stitches, which will become first 68 stitches. This will add about 3 inches to the top of the sock (the instep) but only add  2.5 inches of sole) –Then... 

Well I am not exactly sure! 68 stitches is more than average--(for me, by about 8 stitches) but with a bias knit fabric, more stitches are needed. The stitch count will be close to right. I can always omit a short row, or more likely, add one—depending on how the socks fit.

I will still need 4 more inches of instep—but only another 2 inches or so on the sole—So a more intricate set of short rows will be needed for the toe final few inches and toe shaping!

But the bulk of the foot will be completed in 12  full rounds—and what lovely rounds they will be. Rounds that grow smaller and small--(not larger and larger!) and rounds that will make the socks look like socks (and not like some sort of strange skull cap!)

It's not likely I will finish the socks today. I might not even finish the foot part of the sock today—so these socks are going to be late and not finished until next year. (NEXT YEAR IS TOMORROW!)

But I can live with that—they are only socks after all!

More—But Not Enough

Yet. I wonder if there will ever be enough! I haven't moved the stitch markers since yesterday—you can see, more than a half inch of knitting has been added; And still more is required--not much, BUT!

Will this heel ever be done?!

I realized last night-I am going to need a third needle (or to transfer half the stitches on to a stitch holder) when I finally finish this section and begin to work on the foot.

I think this is the time to make use of my Boye Interchangeable needle set, and to knit the final row onto a cord, remove the needle tips and cap the cord.

I actually have 3 Boye sets—I went out and bought one some years ago—after procrastinating forever. And then, less than 6 months later—I inherited one with stash—and then, a year after that, with a second inheritance (another SABLE that came my way) a third one. The last set came in pieces—I had to go hunting among a bunch of UFO's to find all the pieces—but they were all there.

I know I have supported Boye needles and the interchangeable sets in the past –(and I still do). Having learned to knit with the old fashioned circulars that had piano wire type cables, even Boye's stiff cords are a pleasure—but both stashes came with LOTS of needles—not just the Boye sets; and I had lots of needles to start with—so they are over kill, and rarely used. When you have a choice of super flexible cables, or stiffer ones—well, the super flexible ones win out every time.

But the interchangeable sets still have there uses—and these socks will will make use of them! It's so much easier to knit stitches on to a holder than transfer them--(and the same goes double when it come time to take them off the holder!)

Since I finished my secret socks—I had freed up another small clear plastic purse (and a set of sock needles) —and wanted to stock it with another sock kit for my personal club socks—

So first I had do dye up some yarn.

Here is the black eyed-Suzies yarn--(for a pair of color work socks) –the yellow is too orange, the red, too pinkish-purple, the brown, too light. The colors are all wrong—but I love them! The result is too beautiful for words! I think the results will be beautiful—if not a perfect match to the most common Black Eyed-Suzies. Thank goodness flowers come in all sorts of colors!

I have to ball it up and to divide it still-- And to divide a skein of green, too, for the second color (a plain simple green) While I have some ideas of the stitch patterns I want to use—I haven't settled on any ones yet.. So the sock kit will hold some graph paper index cards (and some colored markers) .

(and I am sure I will end up consulting books, too, before I settle on the stitch pattern I want)

That will makes 7 kits set up. That's more pairs of socks than in many clubs!

So far I have:

1—The Black and White Cookie sock (black and white cookies are NYC favorites—and sold elsewhere I am guessing)

2—A simple sock in Fashion Toes (aka Plymouth Happy Feet) sock yarn—a not quite plain vanilla sock—but almost—just a bit of texture in the stitching to break up the colors.  (The hard to see balled up color way!)

3—White topped brown socks—Plain white giving way to some color work, then changing over to solid brown (for the foot)--maybe a bit more of patterning just before the toe shaping. Inspired by Katherine Misegades design—but not quite the same.

4—Solid green for a leaf design—a lacy, leafy cross band border, and a leaf motif in the leg, too.

5—A spiral rib in stripes—a solid pumpkin with a striped pumpkin--the stripes will be narrow enough to carry the yarn (no cut ends to weave in!)

6-- A plain vanilla pair of sock in Kroy fx –color way clover.

The Black eyed-Suzies will be kit 7.

A nice mix of colors, techniques, stitches.

Some of the other ideas for socks in 2012 are:

1—Spats (aka saddle socks) a two tone pair of sock that look like spats.

2—A Pastel spiral (helix) sock.

3—Dragon Socks—In red and black (2012 is the year of the dragon!)-- But since its also a water year—I have been thinking--maybe the sock won't be red and black—but will be blues and green dragons!

4—Another pair of beaded socks—Prussian blue, with silver bead work.

5—Another pair of puffy socks—but in a different color way—tentively, Yellow, going to marigold, to orange to rust to brown (there will extra brown left over from the brown and white socks!) And at some point, there will be a pair of puffy socks in shades of blues and greys.

6—PINK! Maybe to keep, maybe for a fund raiser, maybe for a gift. (Goodness knows I have a lot of pink sock yarn!)

That's 13 pairs of socks already thought out and planned—and there will be secret socks, too, and other knitting... A pretty ambitious plan for next year! Especially considering, I still haven't finished Decembers sock (but I did knit two secret socks this year (one in the summer, and the pair just finished)) so I have already knit a bakers dozen!--Decembers sock will be the 14^th pair for the year.

As an aside--all this sock knitting is still not enough to make a serious dent in my sock yarns stash--and  sales and yarn companies are likely going to try to entise  me to buy more sock yarn. Knitting up all my sock yarn is a Sisyphean task.

Spreading Myself Too Thin

Not that I am think yet—but I am 20 pounds light—A nice start to even less of me! Losing weight (planning meals, eating healthy (shopping for fresh vegetables) getting exercise has been a real priority. It's showing.

Sewing is soon going to become a higher priority than knitting, too, since a 20 pounds lose is enough that a lot of clothes don't fit! I can sew some elastic into some waist bands—and get some more wear out of some of the clothes—and some can be altered, (easily) but I really need some new clothes, too.

I still haven't sewn up the fabric I bought last year for skirts—and instead went out and got more fabric (60 inches wide and only $2 a yard!) and a pattern for a Jumper*. (Simplicity pattern no.9890--I can't find it on the web site) Skirts are more fitted and harder to alter—and either fit or don't. Jumpers can be altered a bit more easily--long darts front and back can make them more fitted in a flash! And since they hang from the shoulder –losing an inch or two from  the waist doesn't make them unwearable.

–(*Note here—an american-english jumper--a sleeveless one-piece dress, that pulls over the head (no zippers required)that can be worn as is, or with a thin (cotton t-shirt) shirt under it. )The pattern also includes a top—a camp shirt like jacket to be worn over the jumper.

Some of my fitted skirts are so loose that they fall over my hips now—while the waist band is still buttoned, and the zipper is still unzipped! Sure I can add a belt—but the bunched up look when is not very attractive (and hides my weight loss too!) Even the elastic waist skirts are too loose.

I have been making all sort of efforts in all directions— beside weight loss—I continue to clean—and organize (and cull!) stuff, and while knitting and blogging about knitting has fallen short, am working on pattern ideas, and getting some basic outlines of patterns written (and finishing up on pattern documentation I've started and never completed.) Culling old files and backing up the keepers goes on, too.

Since I haven't been knitting much--(and since normally I am so abnormally obsessive about it!)I haven't much to say.

1—The secret socks got finished—and are even longer by a few rows (a half inch or so) than average socks. (They got photographed this AM)--I am happy with the final results, too!

2—Decembers socks? Well maybe I'll have them finished by the end of the month/year—but... just.

I've worked a few more rounds (and the socks now have 36 stitches per sections—4 sections per sock or 144 stitches—and I still need more rounds, more increases, more damn knitting before I can start decreasing and shaping the foot. And every round is so damn long! These socks are going to be one of kind—I can't imagine knitting them again!

I really want to get there (have this portion done) —I obsessively try on the sock—hoping (though I know in my heart of hearts it still not there yet) it's big enough.  The (hard to see) white wire is one of my wire coat hanger sock blockers--and clearly the  heel section is still short of reaching the top of the instep! On the other hand, the sock has a good part of the bottom of the foot and the back of the leg knit...  I am counting on this to make both the foot and cuff portion of the sock a bit faster (once I get to them!) to knit.

It's clear that I am still some (too many!) rows short of being ready to break off and start the foot. (The cuff end will be last—I am sure I have enough yarn—but...)  

I Got Garbage for Christmas.

And I couldn't be happier!--Wait let me explain. Since I was teen ager, I've been the person who has collected box top or labels and sent away for promotional products (and unlike Ralphie, I never ended up with a decoder ring and been disappointed). I've been a coupon queen—once (back in the lat 1970's) buying a full cart of groceries (over $100 worth) for just a few ($2? $3)--including meat, potatoes and fresh vegetables. Promotions have changed over the year, and many now can be done on computer, with nothing to mail in. And while I do fewer, and I am less compulsive about it, I still participate.

Since they started, I have been one of the people participating in MyCoke rewards program. On disadvantage to this promotional scheme (to all promotional schemes!) is the quantities required to get anything-- Along the way I have learned tricks to extend my ability to garner points.

NY State is one with a bottle recycling program—and the recycling machines used often kick out the bottle caps—slip on a disposable glove, and you can sort through a bunch of caps and find some from CokeCola products—and add some points (with out more purchases.) I confess, I do this all the time.

Yesterday—while shopping for a Sunday paper—I checked the bottle machines—and found myself 9 caps--(It would take me a month to drink that much soda!) a bonus!

Each cap is worth 3 points—and may rewards take 300 (or more!) points—It's not a very generous rewards program—so scrounging for caps is, well, one aspect of my compulsive behavior.

A gentleman (I was going to say elderly—but chance are, he was just older (by some 10 years) than me, and I sure don't want to be called elderly!)--saw me, and said, “You collect caps? Here I have some...”

He had a nice car (much new than mine) and his trunk was filled with bottled for recycling—(it's amazing the number and sort of people who collect cans and bottles and add to their income a nickel at a time) Here and there in piles, were caps. I held out a bag, he rummaged.. and rather quickly filled the bag—a lovely Christmasy collection of red, green, and white caps. (OK there are a few silver ones, and black one or two, —but mostly reds and whites and greens!)

At home I washed them (in hot water and a little bleach) and dried them, and counted them.

71 caps! With my measly 9, that's 80 in all. And 80 times 3 is 240—a substantial number of points!

Already,  it's enough to reward my self with a coupon for a 12 can pack (or rather a coupon for one)

I don't usually drink cans of soda—but every once in a while its nice to have a small controlled portion. (I used to love these coupons when I worked—I could carry a coupon to Manhattan, and buy a 12 can pack a the local drug store—so much easier than lugging all 12 cans from Queens!(up and down subway stairs—and a few block of walking too!) Then,  when I worked late, I enjoyed treating my self to a can of soda (I tend to drink soda after 4PM—and more after dinner..and not that much ever.) It made long hours more enjoyable—but since I am not working, I don't think so.

240 points is just about half the number needed to purchase a free movie ticket voucher--

What do movies cost around your way? Here in NYC--$11 to $13 (and sometimes even $15!) is the normal charge. There are some promotional deal like $5 Tuesdays--(early matinee's only) but for the most part, the experience of going out to a movie is a luxury I just can't afford. (I just cashed in a year's worth of points for just such a voucher.)

They also have rewards for free movie rentals (cheaper than a movie ticket) and for a lot of promotional clothing (I have no interest in wearing CokeCola T shirts, or hat, or carrying a lunch bag with a promo, or a key chain, or ...) and other stuff—lot of free subscriptions to magazines (none that I generally read, but..) and photo products, and.. well other things I am not interested in.

Still, in all, Free stuff! Isn't that what we dream about? I especially like free stuff that is intangible—a free movie ticket/experience take up absolution no space! It's clutter free! And for me, a bit of a luxury.

I got a lot of other nice stuff for Christmas—I am blessed with generous loving family and friends—and it warms the cockles of my heart, that I got some garbage, too!

Inching Along

A little bit here, a little bit there, and eventually, I will have something. But right now—it seems like nothing is getting done!

The endless heel and ankle on December's sock still haven't been finished. The dull boring part of the secret socks are incomplete, too. 

Hours of frustration are slowly giving way to a new web page—right now it looks crude but slowly oh, so slowly, the backbone is being built, the pages are being fleshed out.

Drag and drop page builders are convenient—but I want more than they offer, and each page needs to be tweaked. And while I know there are certain bell and whistle I can and to make things better—I haven't done much with HTML in the the past few years, and I am repeated forced to look up the code details.

Not to mention the getting the domain host and the page host on speaking terms!

The new web page won't make its debut till sometime in the new year—But it is something I am working on every day—As well as culling old files (13Gigs of old files disappeared today!) and backing up the remaining files.

I'm doing real cleaning up. too—much of it, too long neglected—every day something gets put up, or put away, or thrown away. Sometimes it's just the smallest of thing—Or even just everyday things (tomorrow: laundry—just 2 load—Not letting it pile up! (and become overwhelming!)  But I am working at it.  

There is shopping, too, (fresh fruits and vegetable get eaten up on a regular basis and need to be replenished!) and there are new foods—Since all rice is not the same—and new condiments for the same old food—to make them more appetizing—and more cooking and cleaning up! Simple meals of a starch and protein have been replaced with stir fried veggies, or roast veggies, or steamed veggies with almost no starch, and a lot less protein.  And all those veggies need to be cut up, cleaned or peeled, before being cooked.  OK, the occasional baked sweet potato doesn't require much effort--but chopping up a mountain of veggies for a stir fry dinner is more effort than boiling water (and making a meal of pasta) 

On the calendar is a reminder to sign up for a water aerobic program—Since more exersize is another item on the agenda.

I am still procrastinating on buying speakers—but they are on the too list, too And sewing is going to have to move to front and center, soon, too. The good news is a whole lot of clothes are becoming too loose—and either need to be taken in, or thrown out. The bad new is: New clothes are quickly becoming needed.

For now, I am just going to do some fast and dirty altering --adding elastic to the inside of waist bands, or some darts to dress, but I don't have many smaller sized clothes—and will be needing some (including a new swimsuit for water aerobics!)

Secret Socks--

Are almost done –they are anklets now—but won't be finished till they are taller, mid calf length socks.

And they are, oh so boring, now to knit! I got a good two inches done yesterday--(and half of the Sunday NYTimes crossword puzzle). I could have done more I suppose—but...

Most of yesterday was spend in NYC HHC (Health & Hospial Corp) Primary Health Care—a service I didn't know about—but that now serves as my health care center. I can't complain about the quality of the care—the doctors, the nurses, the service available are all top notch—but SLOW? Incredible slow. Hours are spent—The first 2 hours weren't too bad—A lot got done. But then there was a wait for more stuff--and after 4 hour hour wait, I decide I could wait a while longer for some of the services offered—and gave up and went home.

By then, I was already re-acting to the Pneumonia and flu vaccinations--(the pneumonia one more) my arm was achy, and tender, and by the time I got home (a 30 minute commute) I had a low grade fever.

In the first 2 hours, I had seen a care nurse who check my blood pressure, weight, temp and respirations, I had seen a doctor did a complete exam (including checking on my now nearly healed leg) and who scheduled a ton of tests and some meds. I had seen a RN for the afore mentioned vaccinations, and a pre-care instructions for a colonoscopy (scheduled), and an optical technician who checked my eyes.

So knitting was done for the day—and so was I. No blog, no photos, nothing else done, either!

My not secret socks? Progress is slow.. each sock now has over 120 stitches—and will like have 150 (or maybe even more) before I change—The socks (if you haven't guessed) are being knit starting from the base of the heel.  The center markers mark divides foot stitches from leg stitches. (the single side marker is BoR marker)

There are 4 sets of increases—1 Center of the sole, 1 center of back , and 2 that run up on a diagonal to the top of the instep. Once I get to the top of the instep, I'll break—and begin to knit only the foot.

At that point the foot will have half the stitches (or about 74 )and they will be decreases (creating in effect a gusset) until there are circa 60 stitches. I'll continue to increase on the sole, (and do double decreases on the top of the instep) and will have a diagonally knit foot. At some point, the sole shaping will end, the rows will even out.. and a toe will worked.

Then I'll go back to the other 74 stitches, and work the leg portion of the sock. It too will be shaped by decreases--(and perhaps a central motif)

I already have almost 4 inches of the center seam of the sole of foot (the edge with the BoR marker)and center seam of the back of leg-- so by the time I get to knitting the foot and the leg, there will be a nice bit of progress on each—but now? Every round (and I am still increasing every 3^rd round!) is twice the number of stitches found in a conventional sock—So progress is slow. 6 rounds since last photo? On a normal sock, the same number of stitches worked would be over an inch-- not a pittiful 3/8^th of an inch!

The other good news? I've dropped another pound. So progress is being made on that front, too.

6 Sock Kits Put Together--

and Oh my!

What a mistake it is to rummage round in the sock yarn stash—The idea come flying out, and so does yarn I've totally forgotten about—

Where did this pair of Knit Pick sock yarn come from? --it lovely—but I have several other skeins in almost the same color.

Why do I have so much PINK?
Oh, look at this green—its hideous. What was I thinking buying it?

And then there was the culling of photo—and organizing them. The theory being I shouldn't back up the blurred ones, or the dull ones. A thousand (well maybe just a hundred but it seemed like a thousand) folders are now condensed into monthly ones (some dating from 2009)—and 3 folders have been culled of unwanted images. Only 20 or so more to go.

And that opens up another can of worms—Look at this yarn! (A skein of woodland rose (colorway) in a worsted weigh yarn.) I found this picture, and I remember buying it.  But--Where did I stash it? It's so pretty—And  what can I do with a single skein?

Knitting?
Well a few more round have been added to sock—not so much as you'd really notice.. But the end is in sight for this first part! Soon (not soon enough, but soon!) I'll be ready to go to work on the foot--(and actually a good 3 inches—and by the time I finish, 4 inches of the sole will have been knit. Not so much of the instep.. but still all this knitting is doing something--its just taking a long time to look like a sock.

A lot of work is getting done—in lots of different places.. Its just there is not much to show for it—anywhere!

Every Year, I Swear:

Next year, I am going to be neater and more organized. And while some progress is made, by the end of the year, it' s pretty clear, I am far from being neat and well organized!

As the year comes to a close, I am once again cleaning up and sorting through piles of UFO's—and clutter. And once again, I am making an effort to make sense of my plans, my stash, my life.

Yesterday morning— I spent a good hour untangling and winding up 6.5 oz of some lovely merino homespun—Next I will skein it up—and think about dying it--(What Color?!) And then what? A hat? A lacy scarf? Something else? It's not super wash, so some things are out of the running-no slippers or bed socks --they become by default slipper for a short while between getting up and getting showered-- and need to be washed way too often for hand washing. On the other hand, 6 oz of DK/light worsted weight yarn is a lot of yards—easily enough for a nice sized scarf or medium sized shawl.

And its not the only yarn that been handled. A whole bunch of partial skeins have been neatened up and made into lovely little cakes on the ball winder. A bunch of jumbo (2.5 gallon) zip lock bags have been washed—and a dozen more purchased—I love storing fiber in these clear bags and finished stuff, too. I know that when yarn is in sight, it is half way to knitting it!

The first few (5) sock kits have been put together—with yarn, and needles, and pattern—The yarn divided (when needed) into 2 cakes, and a index card with the general plan for the socks –or specific information (intended stitch pattern—and the book and page the stitch pattern can be found) added too.

I've been making lists, too. Sweaters—and vests, and other things to knit, hats to knit, and patterns to write. I already have 3 scarf/shawl things on the list—Do I add another? And the list doesn't even have a full sized shawl on it—but my Daughter is getting married in October—perfect weather for wedding shawl—And maybe one for me, too? I have the yarn—Miles and miles of cob web weight merino--(I haven't balled that up yet!)--but I also have mile of silk merino, (lace but not cob web weight) and not too shabby a collection of silk, too. (a pastel color way, with a butter yellow predominating, or a huge skein of a dry crisp raw silk in shades of blue, and finally some dusty pink/mauve silk) There is also a beautiful blue angora/silk/merino blend (about 400 yards) or the dark teal blue Zepher--(silk/merino).

For some one who swears every year I am never going to make another scarf/shawl—I have an awful lot of yarn for just that purpose!

I even got a little knitting done. The secret socks have heels and an inch or so of leg—they will soon be complete. The public socks has had a measly 3 new rounds added by yesterday—but a few more rounds added last night. They look the same (just a little bigger) and this part of the sock isn't even half done.. so they won't look much different the next time they are seen!

The Girl with Dragon Tattoo has been re-read, slowly and carefully, and now I am started on re-reading book 2 of the trilogy.

There is a new calendar hanging on the wall next to my desk—and the console table in living room is just about cleared—this week end I will do the meager bit of decorating I do for the holiday. I have a lovely collection of glass tree's—all stylistically ever green--(some are even green glass) that I like to display—and I usually add a 6 foot tall conical tree of lights –on my terrace—but I don't hold out hopes that it will be open and ready for use before the new year –so there will be less than usually decorating.

I am not a big fan of Christmas—and don't do much in the way to celebrate it. Much of the holiday is so commercial and meaningless, the religious part is almost lost. And I am not very religious—well not in an organized way. I have a strong spiritual life—but I don't go to church—and liturgically, (in the RC I was raised in) Christmas isn't really that big a holiday. It's become bigger as its become a more secular holiday—It can be fun for the children—but it can also be just about the gimmes, too. But maybe that is just my own negativity showing.

And speaking of negativity—I am a bit annoyed that I haven't lost any weight in the past week! I feel like every meal is a big bowl of salad, and there have been no cookies, no snacks, no potato chip or ice cream (and no movement on the scale!) My leg is just about healed (the scab is gone—and there is tender pink skin in its place) and come the new year I will join the local pool and get involved in some water aerobic classes—I need not just to reduce calories—but to exercise more!

Clean Out the Old, Bring In the New

Six little clear plastic purses (I wish I had a dozen!) have been cleaned out-the left over sock yarn stashed—the miscellaneous junk (pens, packs of tissues, business cards, etc) that crept into the bags, put away or discarded.

Next, these bags will be packed up with new sock yarn—and pattern idea's—and in some cases, needles, (When I inherited stashes, I also inherited needles—I have LOTS of needles, and other knitting notions), a tape measure, a few stitch markers, and what ever else might be needed. What ever I don't have and will need, I add to the note with the pattern ideas.

These sock kits will be my personal sock club—a handy way to plan my socks for the year.

It very effective! I had misplaced my notebook with pattern ideas, and then retrieved it this weekend—I had 4 new ideas to add to sock list-- When I review it, I realized I had forgotten half the ideas I had written down just a few months ago! I know with out the list and the sock kit all packaged up, I would forget even more!

The 4 new ideas brings my total list of ideas up to 16—Plus there is a list of another dozen ideas for my secret sock project. OK, some of them over lap, and some of the secret project socks are pretty generic--certainly the secret socks I am working on now are. The secret socks are about half done—With every step documented (and corrected!) and photographed along the way.

Some (not a lot, but some) progress has also been made on December's socks—they still don't look much like socks—and with each round they will look less and less like any sort of sock you might know. But in the end, they will be just another pair of socks.

One thing I love about Ravelry is how it reminds me what I have accomplished every year.

This time of the year, I feel like I have knit nothing—Or, OK, a hat or two, or some sock socks, but nothing to speak of, nothing much.

But then I look at my projects—all lined up, and suddenly, I see, 14 pairs of socks (Ok 2 are secret projects and not there) Plus one pair is still on needles, and won't be posted for another week or so. But
still, there they are, all those socks.

And it's not just socks—there is a shrug, and 2 vests, a dozen hats, (6 summer lace hats, 5 warm wooly ones + a baby hat). There scarves and cowls, and simple squares,(for Robyn's art project), some fingerless gloves.

Did I really knit all that in the past year? Maybe my knit list for the coming year isn't so ambitious after all!

Some times I feel like such a slacker—I wish I had a db like Ravelry for everything... Maybe I do more than I give myself credit for—and need a reminder! I suppose this blog serves as one –but I don't often go back and re-read it... But then again, just looking at the number of posts--236, so far this year--(I've made a real effort this year to post 5 days or so a week)--I haven't done too bad. And there is all the work I have done on my web page--(and so much more work in the pipeline!)

3 inches Of Knitting, Done

But nothing to show—It was all done on the pattern in progress. I am on a stretch of “work in established pattern” and want to get to the point of change—and take some photo's.

I've been reading a lot, too. Which also cut into knitting time. Another thing is, I am on a medication that has very few side effects—and general mild ones, at that, but one side effect is I feel chilly—it doesn't last. Well maybe an hour or two—but for that hour or two I huddle under sweaters and comfors, and still, my hands and finger are uncomfortable cold. The chills pass as fast as they come on—but by then 2 hours of prime knitting time have passed!

I spend the whole time thinking about the sweaters I could be knitting. The chills are so strange—I have always been the warm—or comfortable when everyone else is cold. I've worn short sleeved cotton t-shirts all winter long—not out, but indoors. And my apartment is usually like an oven—so for me to feel chilled—It's so out of place!

Tomorrow, I am going to be joining others down at the Lion Brand Studio—They are having a Warm Up America Party—a bunch of us are going to be sewing together all the blocks that all of you (you know you are!) have knit and donated to the collection bins all over—Locally, Michaels has been one collection point—but there are other LYS that have participated as well.

Joining blocks can be tedious—but done together—it will be fun. It will be so good to see a pile of squares turn into a finished blanket.

Normally on Sunday, you'll find me a Panera's (my local Panera's in the new Rego Park Mall) but right now? The place is packed. It's too close and convenient to the stores! And, really even before the Christmas shopping season, it was a busy place and often hard to find a seat—Now it is impossible!

My friend D will be joining me—so even the commute (the subway) will be a fun time. Plus—D is a new knitter (well just over a year of knitting now, and on her 2nd pair of socks) and hasn't ever been to the Lion Brand Studios—She's in for a real treat.

I'll bring my camera—and since I haven't had much to show in the way of my knitting, I'll take some photos of others knitting (and of finished blankets)

A Little Bit of Knitting

A sock (what else is new?)--Not the toe, and clearly not the cuff, but the beginning of a sock none the less. I had planned (at one point) to use this yarn for a pair of “Skew” socks—but I lost interest in that pattern. Now, I am doing a different pattern (sort of...I am making some adjustments to a pattern I say, and customizing it.)--it's a trendy thing.

I am pausing (--read stopping with out quite being finished) on the desk for now. I'll buy some new speakers at some point soon—and finish clearing off the paper work that is just out of sight, (the left side of the desk) in the images. Every day the pile is smaller, soon it will be gone. The speakers are the only real priority—I miss sound! (The image of the right side of the desk shows--there still isn't a phone base there yet--(the CPU tower is under the half circle leaf.))

Meanwhile, I've printing out some things that I wanted hard copies of, and editing them. I started out last year with my web page—and while I have added a lot to it, there is more I want to add—and a good percentage is stuff that is 90% done—and just needs some final editing. I want to make a new start in the new year and improve what I have—Especial since,come the new year, the web page will be moving to its own domain. (don't worry there will be fanfare the day it happens!)

I want the to start off with a new improved web page offering more goodies, (patterns, links, videos, and tutorials!)

I've completed the first draft of one pattern—but I am still knitting the sample—I need to stop and take photographs of the progress and that's slowing me down.

And there are 3 other patterns that are awaiting “tweaks” to make them perfect, some are hats, some are socks, some are others projects. There are over half a dozen patterns in the pipeline—Just waiting for me to finish them.

I am moving in so many directions at once—Changing my eating habits, losing weight—(well not this week—the scale is being very unfriendly—I haven't gained back anything—but I am stuck for the moment), cleaning and re-organizing my living space, writing patterns and tutorials, reading... Knitting (actually pick up yarn and making stitches) has fallen to the wayside for the moment.

It happens, but don't worry, the knitting content of this blog will resume!

As Always, It Took Longer Than Expected

One delay was a mistake on my part (the required me dismantling everything all over again!)--It's what comes of buying parts (with almost no instructions) and missing a key piece of the work.

And—in a bit of planned obsolescence, nothing could be salvaged from my old computer—New plugs, new sizes, new hardware—and the old is scrap.

The second delay (well, it was my fault, too) came as I went to install the half round leaf extension of the desk. I spent an hour looking for a small piece of plastic (a spacer) and finally gave up. I figured I could improvise some sort of spacer. It was really annoying because I knew I had seen the space just a day or two ago, and could not think were I had put it as I was cleaning up-- and its been hanging around for almost 2 years waiting for me to put the leaf in place.

The answer was—I screwed it into place—and as soon as I attempted to do the install (with the improvised spacer)—I found what I had just spent a long hour looking for!

The leaf isn't very sturdy—I wouldn't want to put the printer on it (even though it would be very convenient to have it to my right, and not behind the monitor.) But it will be fine to hold the cordless phone base (Yet another piece of this project—moving the phone)

As soon as I finish one piece, another one suggests its self! And there are (ever!) details. I still need to hang a new calender (I keep my calendar on my computer—but I like a pretty picture one to hang on the wall and look at!)

And—while I have got the video cam working (with out crashing the internet) I still can't get sound out of my speakers. When I check the sound icon on the task bar, it indicated things are working (previously it didn't which is what led me to replace the sound card (vs the speakers)) I think it might be time for new speakers as well. This project is endless!

Today, it's clean up time, there are piles of things to throw out (old computer for 1, boxes for 2, shredded paper for 3, (do I need to go on?)) and stuff to put away (the drill, and other tools) and some stuff to organize (CD's—including all the new drivers from the new equipment)

This new arrangement makes better use of the space. The BEST use of the space would involve turning the desk, and working facing the wall. But I've rejected that—I want to be able to just turn my head (and not my whole body) and be able to look out of the living room window—Yesterday was rainy and foggy, and there is nothing to see, but on clear days, like today, I have a wonderful view.

(This very moment the view is workmen installing the new railing—or rather the railing frame. The glass inserts for the railing come later.)

It's going on two weeks now that I have been working on this project—and I would be so over it by now—except, it really looks good. I spend a lot of time at my computer desk—I like having it an inviting work space.

During the breaks—I have been skeining up (and making up skeins) of yarn.

Some 100gm balls of sock yarn got divided and balled up, and 1 ball of white became a skein—It will be hand painted--a Rudbeckia color way—deep yellow, crimson red and brown, one day soon. It will be divided, too, when it come time to make up balls. I think I will pair the hand painted yarn with a green and do star/flower like motifs in color work—It looks great in my mind eye—we'll see how it really works sometime next year!

It's not knitting--but it is fiber related!

Not Much Knitting--

But a little bit.

What else? Tech writing. The little bit of knitting I am doing isn't ready for public consumption—it's a sample pattern that I am knitting, photographing, and documenting. It's the first of 12 patterns I hope to write in the next 6 months.

So for now, I am doing as much writing (and re-writing) as I am knitting. Maybe even more writing than knitting if the truth be told. The pattern is being written to be needle neutral (or more accurately 3 times, once for DPN's, once for magic loop, and once for 2 at a time on 2 circ's. A good 90% of the time, it's cut and paste--but there are one or two places where there are differences. The 10% difference make up 90% of the work!

My desk top is about 98% complete--(there are still papers to be shredded, and piles of new manuals and soft ware to be filed away)—but the end is in sight. Even the keyboard got cleaned—all the dust (so much!) blown out with a can of air—and all the keys wiped clean with alcohol pads.

The new color printer is up and operational. I have already printed up some business cards. Still to come, some photo's to frame and hang. And I cleaned the wall and attached the new velcro on the wall and power strip (it needs to cure for 24 hours--half way there already)

Inch by inch things are getting done.

Last night I picked up a new sound card—today I take apart all my neatly bundled wires (well just the tail end) and take my computer apart and restore sound. All should go well. But if you don't hear from me in a while, you'll know something went wrong!

Knitting? Nada.

Well a few stitches(under 100). None of them photo worthy.

Bits and pieces of other stuff done --Friday's clean laundry finally got put away Sunday AM. Mountains (well maybe not mountains, but a lot) of stuff that I had been saving “in case” got deemed worthless, and tossed. I confess to be border line hoarder—and I am always packing away stuff that might be useful someday—But every once in a while, I go on a cleaning binge and throw out mountains of stuff that I recognize is hopelessly out of date or just useless, or that just won't ever be fixed or made into something, or... And right now I am on a bit of a clean out and discarding binge.

My next cleaning binge (I hope!) will involve clothing—Already a bunch of clothes are loose—and some are getting way to loose and just don't fit—In the most wonderful way.

In the 8 weeks of recovery from my little bit of surgery, I have lost 15 pounds. I am not losing weight as fast—I knew I wouldn't be able to keep losing 2 pounds a week—but was a nice way to jump start weight loss.

I had lost some weight last year (I dunno, maybe 10 pounds? Maybe more.) and some of my clothes were already a bit loose—I had to buy (well buy the makings of, and made) a few belts.

Now those clothes are so loose that they slide off me (unbelted, a skirt with its waist band fastened falls easily over my hips) So I see the difference not just on the scale, but everywhere.

Now I need to get out and exercise more—come the new year, I will make a point of getting to the pool and sign up for the water aerobic classes and go to them. I can't just yet—my wound is finally almost healed—the incision has moved from being a deep ugly crater, to now being a 99% scabbed (“granulated” in medial speak) little (well not that little but way smaller) injury.

I don't want to be spending time in the pool to the whole thing is healed (and new pink skin (vs a scab) is all that is left.

What I did most this week end is read—I can't say enough of how much I am enjoying the Stieg Larson's trilogy—I am racing through them—and then, once I know the story, I'll re read and savor all the details.

Entering the Home Stretch

So starting back on Monday:
Bought a bunch of computer hardware
Installed Wifi network
Labeled and Re-routed wires
Set up new Monitor
Added a Printer

I didn't bother with the fax set up—I'll keep it as an option—I do occationally have a need for a fax machine (but less and less)). Nor bad for a week. (I know, I could have had it all done in a day--in theory--but everything took longer than expected!)

Still to do? A second hole and chase for wires—It's a pain to drill in the compress strand board with Birch veneer desk top—The first one took 2 charges of the cordless drill—But I think its worth the effort.

And a heavy duty velcro mount for the power strip is needed too. (My apartment is considered fireproof—the walls are plaster coated concrete. Great for safety but mounting most anything is a real PITA! You can't nail anything—you have to drill a hole (with a masonary bit) put in a plug and screw up everything. I am a big fan of 3M mounting strips for most of my art/wall decoration (the Command adhesive ones). But good as they are—even the big (which aren't very big) velcro strips won't hold up a power strip—Well-- they will if I never plug or unplug anything-but I unplug things (cel phone charger for one) all the time.

The last thing to do is to reinstall my web cam—again, not for me a high priority—but I have it, so I should get around to connecting it. The first time I tried to install it—there was a conflict—It interfered with my modem/internet connection—But I've already swapped the USB ports—so maybe that's all I needed to do. (We'll see)

Then sometime in the future—I'll pick up a new sound board—and take the CPU apart and replace it.

While I am at it, I'll slave in a second R/W CD—I salvaged one from my last computer—and its nice thing to have (it makes copying a CD super easy). I don't need to copy a CD, (or burn 2) very often—but why not? I haven't bothered to make the effort—but if I am taking unplugging everything (all the lovely, labeled everything's!) and taking the cover off anyway...

But before that—a full back up of all my files-(I have back ups of MOST of them)--and everything is backed up in 2 places on the hard drive..But, no sense in being stupid—I know I should do monthy-(I don't--lots of stuff is backed up--but not everything)

Knitting? Haven't done any! But Look-- a bonus package of yarn—mostly acrylic (some of it looks like Red Heart--(just when I though I had used up all of my Red Heart!)) but some is wool (and/or a wool blend. 2 Needles too, as set of Boye short straights, (US size 5(3.75mm)) and one a 29 inch circular—size 10.5(6.5mm)

These yarns are bonuses from my sister—who haunts thrift shops (in Japan) and finds some wonderful stuff—Lovely wools, often, and some other interesting yarns. These aren't the best she's sent me.. but Oh, how wonderful to open the door to an unexpected package!

(OH, and I am off now to get my washed and dried laundry!)

What got done?

Quite a bit--not everything I planned--but...

The forstner bit eventually worked it way through the desk top- ONCE. I think its going to have to do it again before I am finished. The mouse and keyboard cable still snake across the top of the desk top, and some power cords are being pulled up at the wall side edge of the table –I think they would be neater routed through a chase. The kit (signum, from Ikea) came with the bit and 3 plastic liners and snap on covers—so drilling a second will time and effort –but I can do it.

The first hole (chase) is at the back of the desk, and it has a over half a dozen wires being fed into it. The modem cord is so long, it starts at top (in a power strip outlet, goes into the chase, down to floor (and transformer) and then comes back up as a light weight cord and jack to be connected to the modem. The modem cable goes down, too (and comes up at the far edge of the desk to be connected to wireless router.)

So far there are 2 power cords being pulled up to the front power strip --the CPU and the new monitor but before I am finished, the printer power cord will join. I have one of those energy saving power strips—with a Master/slave control. When the CPU goes to 'sleep' there are up to 4 outlets that are slaves. Power to these slaves get shut off—entirely. Power up the CPU, and power is automatically restored to the slaves. It's very convenient—you get to save power, with out having to turn everything off (and on) –again and again—and it does it for you if you forget!

Right now only the new monitor is a slave—but the printer will become a slave, too. There are 2 other outlets in the strip that aren't slaves—and powered all the time--like the wireless phone—and the wi-fi router—I don't want these to turn off when ever the computer does! The back power strip is for the modem, speakers, my camera docking station, a swing arm desk lamp and the new shredder. A lot of things plugged in—but most don't draw much power. (That power strip has a single outlet free (its on of those big bulky ones--specially designed with outlets far apart to that its easy to plug in a bunch of transformers)

I am still not finished, but already, most of the mess of wire have been tamed –put into split tubes, labeled and routed under the desk (instead on top). I am going to wait till the last minute to tie wrap them to the table frame—In case some thing need to be re-routed-- but already it's so much neater!

There more space, too without a rat's nest of wires snaking across the desk top. And it will be easier to keep clean.

Still to come—hooking up the new monitor (which means moving the CPU)--but by the time I was finished drilling, and climbing under (and out from under the desk) a half dozen times—organizing the wires-- it was enough for the day.

And I am likely going to have more work--my sound card conked out. Just as I am about to finish up the install of a nice big 19 inch monitor (and possible be able to watch a movie)-no sound!

But Look--on a happier note! Socks—once again, in under the wire and finished in the same month they were started.

I got some reading done, too.* But not the laundry—but it did get taken from the hamper, sorted, and made ready to go—the first thing I did this morning was to head down to the laundry room—only to find, it's closed (yet again!) for repairs—with no notice going up about it either! How annoying!

*Lizbeth, (The Girl who Played with Fire)—she bought furniture for her new apartment—and bought the same desk (galant) that I have—I smiled at that!

A Progress Report

Wifi? Yes
Monitor? Hardware (mounting bracket) Installed, and monitor mounted, but no connections/wiring done.
Woodwork? (drilling hole for wire routing) on today's schedule.
Labeling and re routing wires? Also on today schedule.
Printer? Still in the box.
Paper work cleaned up—in progress. (Filled the shredder bin once already!)
Next 2 loads of wash? Also on today's schedule—The four loads washed and folded on Saturday didn't get all hung up and put away till Monday (with a few left over pieces yesterday)
Knitting? Remember Knitting? The sock is almost complete—just the cuff(s) are needed for completion. (Today!)There should be photo's of the finished socks tomorrow.
Reading? Finished (loved!) Girl with Dragon Tattoo, about to start 2nd book in series, The Girl who played with Fire. (The Girl who Kicked the Hornets Nest is also in my possession, and these two books will cut into my knitting time no doubt.)

As always thing get worse before they get better-Right now desk has two monitors—One (on mounted on a swing arm bracket is swung out of the way (but .. it's still visually taking up space!) and one (the old CRT monitor) is still sitting where it always sat, waiting to become obsolete.

And the cleaned desktop is now in need of cleaning again (saw dust)--but there will be more before I am finished. And there is small but ever growing pile of tools hanging about--the drill (and charger), the box of drill bits, the screw driver (and box of interchangeable bits )--I could use the drill but its just as easy to screw most things in by hand and the set of allen wrenches--(for adjusting the bracket) –Oh, and the label maker, too for labeling the cords.

The final step will be mounting the power strips-- and relocating the phone (it's close, but just inconveniently out of reach!)

There are some other details—moving the calendar, and hanging up magnetic white board—and getting rid of the old printer stand (It served well for a while, but it is (always was) way too big) And maybe, buying of of those neat little charger stations—the kind with 3 or 4 short extension cords –( transformers take up so much space—and block outlets!) and an on/off switch; so I can leave transforms plugged in (convenient) but turned off (and not waste energy).

The new monitor has 2 built in USB ports—so I can get rid of one transformer (the USB expansion box) but the wireless router has added one, and the cordless phone (if moved) will be another, Plus the one for the cell phone, And.... What a world we live in! All this work—and in another year or two, some other pieces (like the computer/cpu—now 2.5 years old) will be obsolete and so much will have to be redone.

I feel like I have spent half my life setting up and then improving (and then setting up again!) desks and work tables for computers--and then upgrading them and having to do more work and re-arranging things. (and come to think of it--it has almost been half my life--I got my first computer in 1982--almost 30 years ago!)

Simple is Never Simple

A wireless network—simple really, buy a router, connect to modem, install CD, run set up, set up security, done.

Ok buy router, done.
Connect to modem. Wait. My crappy cable modem provide by cable company? No port to connect wireless modem.

So I could wait a week,and pay $ (a little every month for a rental fee) or go out today and spend $$ (not too much) and own my modem (and it will pay for itself in saved rental fees in less than a year) OK time to buy a modem.

Well let's up grade the monitor— I have a flat screen on, and mounting hardware,just waiting for me to instal it. This will free up space for the new printer (which has a much bigger foot print) So it really has to be done first.

OK, easy enough, I have the power cable and the USB cable for the new (not really new, just new to me) monitor. I can disconnect power cord and monitor cable from old monitor, and get that done.

No I can't! The monitor cable is hard wired into the old monitor, and I went through my bag of goodies—and found –lots of stuff (even a old scusi cable) but a monitor cable? No. So I am 2 for 2 for failing!

Still, I did crawl under the desk, and clean out 2 years worth of dust bunnies in the corners were they hid escaping the swiffer. At the same time, I washed the floor, and cleaned out and got rid of stuff I really just don't need...

So the desk is clearer—and a bunch of paperwork that was on hold has been shredded—Thankfully the shredder is really plug and play! (unlike the modem and monitor!)

Fortunately Staples is near by—and I can pick the cable and cable modem up later today.

I still have to drill a hole in the desk top for the bracket to mount the monitor, and I will (I think) also drill a BIG hole to route the wires more neatly—or if not neat, out of sight!) I have the drill bit even and a plastic cap to plug the hole, and and all the split flex tubing I need. and baggie full of try wraps--everything I need to to do the job-- but it's the last step--not the first one!

So for now, the desk top (and underneath!) is neater and cleaner—but its all the same old stuff.

It's so simple to upgrade—except when it's not!

While I am working at this upgrade, I hope to get my web cam working too. I tried installing it a few months ago--but there was conflict--I could chose between a web cam that worked, or an internet connection that worked. (Guess which one I went with!?)

The Envelop, Please.

So I was talked into waiting on buying a wireless router—but time is up! I've wanted a to go wireless for awhile—and now have an extra incentive. I am moving—belatedly—but better late than never-- into the new, wifi always on line world.

Just another thing to be thankful for!

I now have a tablet--it's an off brand-- and the battery life is way too short—but it's Android powered—and bigger than the 2 X 2 inch screen of my not-so-smart phone. (And I should not be looking gift horses in the mouth. It's Great!)

And since Saturday is for sewing—yesterday it got itself a nice little envelope to hold it. Inside (between the layer) there is plush iron in interfacing—giving the envelop a bit of padded protection. A small Velcro dot holds it closed— enough I think. A pocket on back will allow me to carry the charger, too—since with only 6 hours of battery life-it need to be fed often. And while it doesn't really fit, I will the manual tucked into the envelop, too. (The manual has bigger exterior dimensions than the tablet-but barely 20 pages thick, so it can be crammed into the envelop and folded over a bit)--I don't plan on carrying the manual long term--and decided that the envelop should fit the tablet--not the manual.

For now, I still need the manual handy to reference some paths—but already in 24 of playing with it—I feel like I know my way around.

It will get a try out this afternoon—Sunday means knitting at Panera's—and Panera's will have wifi. I think I am going to need to find some sort of Droid manual too--I have figure out how to connect it to my computer in the most basic way. But not how to communicate with it.

It seems like it should be able to talk to my Google account and let me exchange and sync info with a hard wired connection (but I haven't found out how yet!) I am sure there are thousand of other users who will show me around.

Another system to learn! My first hand held computer was a 8086/dos based Psion (circa 1995) then a Palm Pilot, (and an upgraded Palm) and then for the past few years, nothing. For now, a low grade tablet—and for Christmas (I have been a good girl) a new smart phone--(also android based!) —by then, I should be, if not a wiz at Android –at least proficient--a full fledged member of this century's technology--(and not a dinosaur left in the last one).

A History in Knitting

I love to knit—it satisfies, to some degree, my need to be creative and productive
I love to knit—its helps me calm down and center my self, instead of wildly spinning out of control
I love to knit—my knitting is a reminder, that: this too, shall pass.

These socks (LOOK, progress has been made while I haven't been blogging about it!) are all three.

I started them earlier this month when some health issues were not going well—and they served, one Monday a few weeks ago, as a tool to keep me from emotionally falling apart--there were cracks at the seams--but in the end, I held together.

And they remain mute evidence to my precarious state of well being.

I had an idea (originally they were going to be a floral lace—but that idea was pushed aside for a simpler pattern of twisted, (each knit stitch is twisted) cabled pairs.

I figured out the grouping of stitches on a scrap of waste paper (actually a bit of light cardboard as found in magazines for subscriptions—exactly that!) and set to work.

The first pattern repeat? Well, its really patternless. I had an idea, but I couldn't think straight—and there really is no design. Just a mismash of some simple cables.

But the act of knitting did its magic and by the time it came to do a second repeat, a real organized pattern emerged—gone were the chaotic, disorganized thoughts, and gone were the chaotic disorganized stitches.

The two repeats since then are just as organized—but a secondary problem(?)--well not so much a problem, but an after effect—the pattern I worked out for the instep works fine—but well I didn't want a full repeat on the back of the sock (because then there would be two sets of lace with out any purl ditches between them at the side (seam)) and there were too many stitches to drop one column of the lace and too few to have 2 sets of the cable element.

Poor Planning on my part!

So the back is plain. Not the best choice—but it's OK. I normally would plan better—but on the day I planned these socks I wasn't thinking well enough to do a better job. And they are not so bad that I would even think to frog them.

No, they will be as they are, patterned on front, plain and back. A bit of history. A knit reminder to myself. The socks could be better—but it doesn't matter that they aren't—I AM.

Now back to the laundry that I have talked about doing for 2 weeks now (early this week the laundry room was closed 2 days for repairs—so the delay is not just procrastination on my part!) There are 4 load washing--1 complete load is nothing but socks! Soon all the load will be drying. Then for next week, 2 more loads of stuff to do (still left in the hamper)! I have this bad habit of wearing clean clothes every day—and using towels and sheets, and Oh how the laundry piles up!

A Day of Thanks

And I have so much to be thankful for—not the least of which is all of you my readers.

I am grateful for each and every one of you.

Footsies and Hardware

The heels are completed—but I haven't yet begun to knitting in the round again.

Nor have I gotten laundry done (today!) or started on the gloves, or done any sewing.

But I've lost another pound and half in the past week—SO some progress has been made, somewhere.

Today I am going shopping.. a new printer (I've been without for months!), finally, too, a wireless router and for good measure, a paper shredder—some basic upgrades that have long been needed.

The printer I am eying isn't just a printer—it's a color scanner and copier, too. Goodness knows, I have a back look of things I want to print out—and a second back log of copies to be made. I've never felt the need to have a scanner--but I suspect once I have one, I will find a use for it.

And while I am doing this upgrade—I will also get my web cam connected—last time I tried, there was an I/O conflict—and my Internet connection failed. Needless to say the cam quickly got uninstalled!

There are other details to work on too. Like (better) mounting the power strips, and finishing labeling all the cords—Life is so much easier with things labeled—starting with the circuit breaker, and down to the plugs. This is another place (knitting is one, too) where being a bit obsessive is an asset!

A 7 inch Foot

Is just about the right size for me, sans the heel. In a round or two it will time to start the heel--a short row heel--which will add about another 2 inches—and I'll have the 9 inches of sock I need to fit.

I am going to momentarily pause work on these socks then. My friend Debbie is working on her 2nd pair of socks—and I want her to see a short row in progress. She is a very visual learner. She's now started on her second pair of socks—and will be doing a short row heel in a few weeks.

She finally finished her first pair of socks last week—Not quite 6 months in the making—and while they are not perfect(far from it!) She is pleased as punch with them and has already worn them. I'll nag her a bit, and make her take a photo—but, already, her second pair are looking so much better!

I'll see her Sunday, at Panera's—and I want to be mid heel at then. Then she can see a few short rows being work, and also see how to pick up and do the second half the the heel.

So a few more rounds, and I'll start the heel, then, pause before finishing the first half.

But—before that—as promised, here are the socks stretch out and semi blocked—Now you can see the center pattern of twisted stitches that cable back and forth to make intersecting diamonds—do you sense a recurring theme here? It could be! The gloves are likely to have yet another iteration of a diamond pattern –one done in knits and purls.

(Look closely, (double click the image to enlarge) and you can see the first "pattern" repeat is not as well done--but I don't care!--The knitting got me through a bad day- and will be hidden inside my shoes.)

I find I often repeat a design element over and over (till I grow bored with it)--This month its Diamonds—who know what will be next!

So in the mean while, I'll cast on the fingers of my gloves—and start to work on them. I have the yarn and needle ready--and I need to finish them before the Christmas holidays anyway--so it's not too soon to get started.

Viola!

Dry and unpinned from the blocking board, the Red Diamond's scarf is more like a small shawl than a scarf! I am pleased as punch with FO. It was qick to knit, (I finished long before I was bored), it's as soft as all get out, and now, finished, it's bigger and prettier than I expected.

As for the socks—working well rested, and with no anexity, it's much easier to formulate a pretty, but simple pattern for the twisted pairs of knits and purls. The pattern takes a bit of time—but I think its worth it—see—the are beginning to look quite pretty.

Next time I photograph them, I'll stretch them (or put them on LEGS), so the pattern is easier to see. The yarn is also merino--home dyed to create a hand painted effect--there are at places, (not this part of the skein) more blues in the mix--but all in all I like the look.

OK, that's it—I have done a ton of stuff already this morning, and have a ton more to do—So I am off!

Blocking!

A few weeks ago, I finally got around to buying some Styrofoam insulation panels—a set of 6, each 15 inches by 46 inches with tongue and groove edges—so they can snap together for larger panels.--I can get long and narrow shapes for long scarves, and square shapes for sweaters, and even giant stepped triangles for shawls..

I have a ton of knitting that needed something longer than my couch, and more convenient than my bed—so these panels (each about 1 inch thick) are, for me, the perfect solution--they store readily, out of the way under the couch. (I didn't actually remove the plastic overwrap this first time—the plastic is the source of the reflected glare!). The price was right, too--the set of 6 cost less than $10.

The color in this image is pretty true—or it is at least on my monitor--it's a little darker, now, damp, than it is dry, but its just about right.

Today is the first time I am using them—with very little tension, the scarf is being block to a full 46 inches! I didn't thread the blocking wire in the chevron ribbed center back—I want that part of the knitting to fold up accordion style—seeing it 'scooped in' at the neck looks perfect!

I can't readily get the whole scarf in a single image--well maybe from 10 feet away I could, but then the light wouldn't be as good, and the details would be lost. No matter really--since each end is a mirror image, seeing one end is the same as seeing the other!

Tomorrow AM is yet another Dr's appointment--(but it should be a quick in and out!); when I return, (before noon with any luck at all!) it should be dry and ready to unpin. Then, I'll drape it on my dress form again for a finished photo.

Knit and Grafted

This was yesterdays post—that never got photos or posted.

But not quite finished (still ends to weave in) and not blocked. But it looks good—and unblocked its 34 inches long—not bad, not bad at all. Blocking will add a few inches—but not to much since I don't plan to hard block it.

Maybe today--(Tuesday)

Yesterday (Monday) was a lost day—I got a lot things done, that needed to be done—but it took hours, (boring, and TMI health stuff)—Fortunately, I had knitting with me. I was able to while away a few of the many hours involved, knitting.

Socks that were nothing more than a cast on and a round are now looking like this—the pattern is going to be problematic—this first repeat is free hand—and I'll have to think about what I did, and when to repeat it.. Or come up with something similar and chart it! (I am not obsessive) –I can have a pattern break and be different –especially if its going to be hidden in the toe of most of my shoes!

I could have even knit more—but I need to rest my hands and take a break—still it's a nice start to a pair of socks!

But knitting is going to take a hit—ever behind the curve when it comes to fiction reading, I just got The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo—and well, this book (and the next two in the series !) are seriously going to cut into my knitting time.

Since yesterday, all I did was add a few (6? maybe, if that) to the socks—I still haven't finished the scarf or blocked it. But I did get photo's taken--and this bit posted!

While I am Generally Feeling Better

Every day—I am not quite as recovered as I think. Thursday I was addled, and tired, and yesterday I felt fine—till I took out some garbage—and got chilled to the bone. A hot drink (decaf coffee) didn't help—instead I crawled under a pile of warm blankets, and took a nap.

That did help—no laundry got done--(there are worse things) but after my nap, (and dinner) some knitting did get done—There is just a bit over 6 inches of lacy ribbing now—and just a little bit of yarn left—2 inches worth? 3 inches worth? (I hope so, but I doubt it)--what ever the measure, the end is in sight for this scarf.

2 pieces of lace –each about 14 inches equals 28 inches, plus another 8 (maybe 9?) inches of ribbing at the back of neck—that's 36 inches in total. Not bad—Just about right for an inside the coat/jacket scarf. And it's so pretty, and so soft—and even with the set backs—so fast to knit!

Today is Saturday, so the first order of business will be finishing the skirt (Saturday is for sewing!) but come the evening, I'll be knitting—and will finish the knitting--I might not finish the scarf—I could end up grafting tomorrow at Panera's on Sunday. And even after I finish it (weave in the ends!) I will still have to block it. So it's really still has a good deal of work to be done before is really all done.

Then it's glove (and sock!) time—I think I will work the two projects at the same time. One thing about socks—there are almost never ends to weave in—and they are knit and go—no blocking required not even for this next pair-- which will be lacy.

Progress—But Nothing Finished.

Almost nothing knit on the scarf--Well actual a number of rows knit—and frogged, and re knit again,and frogged again—with a net gain of just a half a dozen rows!

I was was tired—more tired than I realized (fell asleep before the evening news!) and kept making stupid mistakes--like forgetting to decrease, or knitting the purls or purling the knits!-I should have realized I was too tired to knit!

And while progress was made on the skirt yesterday afternoon, —the bits and pieces had edges bound, the pockets got sewn in (side) and on (back)--and top stitching details were added, the zipper got put in and the waist band started, (but not finished). All in all, a lot of work got done--but it's not quite finished, yet.

Left to sew is the inside waist band, and the hem, plus details like the hook and eye closure for the waist band. Maybe an hours worth of work—that I can easily complete tomorrow and have the skirt ready for Sunday. I think I'll leave it for Saturday sewing.

I have some other projects to sew up tomorrow—little ones—and maybe I'll get another skirt (a smaller sized one!) cut and ready to sew.

I am itching to start my November socks, too. And I need to start on the gloves—in theory they shouldn't take much longer to knit than a pair of socks, but...

For 1, the yarn is finer, (superfine lace weight cashmere) and the gauge will be finer—I knit most of my socks on size 2 needles—but the gloves are going to be knit on size 1's (2.25 vs 2.75mm)

This afternoon I need to do laundry—Again! It's this habit I have—every day I shower and get dressed in fresh clean clothes (well fresh clean underwear and socks—I frequently wear a skirt several times before I feel the need to wash it!) and I use towels, hand towels, and bath towels, and kitchen towels-and sheets, and other miscellaneous stuff ends up in the hamper--(the table cloth from last weeks change the light bulb and a whole bunch of other stuff at the same time!)

Most of the summer clothes have been put away—except for short sleeved T-shirts—I find I wear them all winter—sometimes as an undershirt (for warmth!) sometimes as a top shirt (my apartment can get so hot!)

So that's it.. Simple stuff. Work done, but not really much of anything!

From Diamonds to Chevrons--

The switch has been made. I've changed over from one lace pattern to another. Now I am working a lacy chevron rib—about 3 inches so far. I am only working one end—the chevron is a one way pattern—so I can't work both ends at once—but it will be easy to graft—I worked a plain row on the end I am working—and will the grafted row will mirror that--(not that I think anyone would notice if there was one rows difference in the two sides!)

The half scarf is too long now to fit entirely on my improvised blocking wires (a pair of 14 inch long, US size 4 (3.5mm))knitting needles—and stretched out like this the ribbing looses all of its natural tendency to corrugate--but it does, and when it does eventually get block, the ribbed portion won't be blocked at all--and will naturally scrunch up.

This style of scarf is in the air—Evelyn (aka Lost the Thread--Oct 10th entry) has just completed a very similar scarf—a different lace pattern (but it's sort of diamonds) a different rib pattern at the back of the neck (but its still ribbing) different yarn (but a super soft one!), different color (how pretty it looks in white!) --everything is different—but its also very clearly the same sort of scarf!

I'll do some more work on this scarf later today (well, this evening) but this afternoon I am going to do some work on my skirt—I want to have it finished (and ready to wear!) this weekend. I'll wear my new Ragg Effect socks at the same time—a treat to myself for doing so well with my weight lose. I have everything I need—a zipper, some skirt hooks for the closure—all I need to do is sit down and finish it.

And I've had a great idea that is going to have me working double time—for now a bit of secret project--(a big one!) but I can do it. It involves a lot of extra knitting—and even more time consuming—lots of extra documentation! But I am committed.

I don't think I'll finish the scarf tonight—but it will be done this week—this has been a fast project!

Getting Better—Day by Day

I look at my wound every day, and see, every day, that is getting smaller and healthier looking—but yesterday I had proof that I (as a total person!) am getting better. Yesterday was a frustrating waste of time, money (OK, just $10 or so, but $1o is a lot of money when you are out of work!) and energy—and while I was annoyed—I wasn't done in.

A few weeks ago–3 to be precise—a day like yesterday would have had me in tears—not for long—but I would (I did!) find I had no reserve of patience to deal with even minor set backs. Now, they piss me off, but I take them in stride. And I can even find joy in little things, and be happy in the evening after a rotten start to the day.

I started off noticing—I had messed up (in a very minor way) my lace scarf. Instead of working both halves every row—I found I was half a pattern repeat (6 rows!) out of sync!--An easy fix—but really, where was my head at!?

Each end is a bit over 12 inches long now—and while the smaller of the two balls is pretty limp, I think I still have enough yarn to do yet one more pattern repeat, before starting the lacy rib pattern for the back of the neck.

This is going to be a nice size scarf—which makes me happy! I am still not sure I like the color—It's a lovely cranberry red, but cranberry red is just not a color that sends me. But I love the yarn, and I love the how the pattern is working out—and I love how the overall length is going to work out too!

Tuesday night knitting was sparse—just 3 of us—and it ended early (which I really didn't mind, because I was tired and planning to leave early anyway, though not quite as early as I did!) I am off in a short while to deliver my DD's CSA veggies—and I got a veggie of my own (with out stealing any from her selection)—a wonderful sweet dumpling winter squash. (This mini squash is single serving)

I love winter squash—just about all of them—but unless you go to the farmers market—the selection of choices is often pretty sparse—you have your acorn and your butternut—and that's about it. The best fruit and veggie stand (which is also 6 blocks away and the other side of Queens Blvd (aka boulavard of death!)) some times has some other squashes—but last time I went there—looking for a spaghetti squash—I came home empty handed.

Well, no, not really empty handed-- I came home with several pounds of fruits and veggies (that grew heavier and heavier with each passing block )--just with out the one thing I wanted to buy! I'll try again tomorrow-- I still want a spaghetti squash!--and maybe I'll find some thing else interesting.