Lizard, proud member of my local Stitch 'n Bitch, brought me this mousepad from her recent trip to Washington, DC. The training she attended, "USAID Rules & Regulations" (whatever I did to get out of that one, thank you!), was held at the Red Cross headquarters, and while there, Liz spied this trinket and thought of me. What a sweetie! Velma just luuuuuvs treats! Thanks, Liz!
Monday, March 31, 2003
Lookee
Sunday, March 30, 2003
Flavor Saver
Well, I've had a change of heart on the Ice Cream hat WIP. Had some gauge problems (again) which made me decide that the "peppermint" Colinette yarn just wasn't the right call for this project. So I decided to dip out a scoop of "tutti frutti" boucle and serve the hat up in that. It's about half done, gotta hurry before it melts. Hula Haole likes it... do you?
Footwear Fetish Feature
I received such tremendous feedback on the post that included my Fluevog shoes, that I've decided to add a new feature to Velma's World: each week, probably Sunday when I need a lift as I contemplate return to the work-world on Monday, I will post a picture of a pair of zapatas from my collection. I, dear readers, suffer from not one but two, addiction-afflictions: knitting AND shoes. So enjoy the pretty purple Rocket Dogs in the upper right corner. They are not only cute as a button, IMHO, but also comfycomfy.
I received such tremendous feedback on the post that included my Fluevog shoes, that I've decided to add a new feature to Velma's World: each week, probably Sunday when I need a lift as I contemplate return to the work-world on Monday, I will post a picture of a pair of zapatas from my collection. I, dear readers, suffer from not one but two, addiction-afflictions: knitting AND shoes. So enjoy the pretty purple Rocket Dogs in the upper right corner. They are not only cute as a button, IMHO, but also comfycomfy.
Saturday, March 29, 2003
Fishy, finished & fab
Here's a picture of the COMPLETED Hubby Scarf, done today. Specs: seed stich on #9 Addi circs using 1 strand each of Lamb's Pride and mohair. The Hubby requested 'Redwood colors' - think it succeeds? Otis is o-r-a-n-g-e!, so you can see the brick color of the mohair. But the picture doesn't do justice to the texture; it is much furrier than it looks.
Sarah, I didn't forget ya
Sarah wrote to me recently, lamenting the dearth of a Local Yarn Store (LYS) in her remote neck of Ontario. She told me that she liked some of the yarns I've been using in my projects, and asked if I would share my sources with her. So, as promised Sarah, here are some of the sellers that I have used, both online and off. I have received excellent service, great prices and beautiful yarns from all. eBay can't be underestimated, I think. And don't forget how useful a Google search can be.
Fabric Temptations - My LYS - tell 'em Velma sent you
Keep Me In Stitches - Gorgeous handspun -- Lynda Vrgora +1 208 634-2906, McCall, Idaho
Susan at Toadal eBay Store where I got yarn for this WIP and this hat
Beehive Wool- source of yarn for this WIP
Yarn Forward - Just ordered this from them this week
Here's a picture of the COMPLETED Hubby Scarf, done today. Specs: seed stich on #9 Addi circs using 1 strand each of Lamb's Pride and mohair. The Hubby requested 'Redwood colors' - think it succeeds? Otis is o-r-a-n-g-e!, so you can see the brick color of the mohair. But the picture doesn't do justice to the texture; it is much furrier than it looks.
Sarah, I didn't forget ya
Sarah wrote to me recently, lamenting the dearth of a Local Yarn Store (LYS) in her remote neck of Ontario. She told me that she liked some of the yarns I've been using in my projects, and asked if I would share my sources with her. So, as promised Sarah, here are some of the sellers that I have used, both online and off. I have received excellent service, great prices and beautiful yarns from all. eBay can't be underestimated, I think. And don't forget how useful a Google search can be.
Fabric Temptations - My LYS - tell 'em Velma sent you
Keep Me In Stitches - Gorgeous handspun -- Lynda Vrgora +1 208 634-2906, McCall, Idaho
Susan at Toadal eBay Store where I got yarn for this WIP and this hat
Beehive Wool- source of yarn for this WIP
Yarn Forward - Just ordered this from them this week
Friday, March 28, 2003
Much Ado About Nothing
The furor about The Article is dying down, due in no small part to the pooh-poohing of notable knitbloggers Joe and Marilyn, et al. Last night, I set myself to the task of linking to all the web community responses to her piece, assuming (as most of us do, probably) that everyone else would obviously feel the same as I do on the subject; namely, righteous indignation. Well, although I have exhausted my attention span for checking all the sites before making it through even half of the 226 blogs in the knitting bloggers webring, I have come to several conclusions:
So if you aren't already completely bored to tears by the whole thing, the links below are to others in the 'ring who've posted about the subject. It is by no means an exhaustive list, as I said. Feel free to let me know who I've left out.
Bonne Marie at Chicknits
Amber at Knitting and Textiles
Joe at Queer Joe's Knitting Blog
Ginny at Ginnfizz
Jennifer at Moving Hands
Michelle at My Knitting and Great Danes
Ellen at Someone's Been Moving My Chair
Marilyn at The Knitting Curmudgeon
Stella at Stella Knits
Marney at The World According to Marney
Ivete at Knotology
Antonio at All Stitched Up
Kerstin at At My Knit's End
Anne at Anne's Addictions
Alison at Blue Blog
Leigh at Niddy Noddy
Jennifer at The Spirit Trail
Jahara at Fervid Design
Shetha at Simplicitly Stitched
Krista Jo at KnitWit
Becky at Fluffa!
Shannita at Crafty Diva
Matt at Crowing Ram
Geane at Knitpix
Carolyn at Girlreaction
{And Sarah, not to worry, I haven't forgotten my promise -- I'll post tonight or tomorrow on sources.}
The furor about The Article is dying down, due in no small part to the pooh-poohing of notable knitbloggers Joe and Marilyn, et al. Last night, I set myself to the task of linking to all the web community responses to her piece, assuming (as most of us do, probably) that everyone else would obviously feel the same as I do on the subject; namely, righteous indignation. Well, although I have exhausted my attention span for checking all the sites before making it through even half of the 226 blogs in the knitting bloggers webring, I have come to several conclusions:
1. Not everyone subscribes to the Velma Way of Looking at the World (duh!);
2. Most knitbloggers seem to think she isn't worth the trouble to be offended;
3. Kerstin of At My Knit's End had the funniest riposte: a 'Pin the Tail on Tanya' game!
So if you aren't already completely bored to tears by the whole thing, the links below are to others in the 'ring who've posted about the subject. It is by no means an exhaustive list, as I said. Feel free to let me know who I've left out.
Bonne Marie at Chicknits
Amber at Knitting and Textiles
Joe at Queer Joe's Knitting Blog
Ginny at Ginnfizz
Jennifer at Moving Hands
Michelle at My Knitting and Great Danes
Ellen at Someone's Been Moving My Chair
Marilyn at The Knitting Curmudgeon
Stella at Stella Knits
Marney at The World According to Marney
Ivete at Knotology
Antonio at All Stitched Up
Kerstin at At My Knit's End
Anne at Anne's Addictions
Alison at Blue Blog
Leigh at Niddy Noddy
Jennifer at The Spirit Trail
Jahara at Fervid Design
Shetha at Simplicitly Stitched
Krista Jo at KnitWit
Becky at Fluffa!
Shannita at Crafty Diva
Matt at Crowing Ram
Geane at Knitpix
Carolyn at Girlreaction
{And Sarah, not to worry, I haven't forgotten my promise -- I'll post tonight or tomorrow on sources.}
Thursday, March 27, 2003
An open letter to Tonya Jameson of the Charlotte Observer
Dear Ms. (Miss? Mrs.? Titles matter to you, don't they?) Jameson:
You. Must. Be. Joking. Oh, if only. I have never before written a formal letter to any publication, any journalist, or any website. And know that I cast no aspersions on any woman who chooses to pursue "nesting" activities of any kind for the reasons that you have attributed to all of us crafters; I will not criticize any woman for pursuing any activity that makes her heart soar, which feels good, or which she just picks up on a whim. What I object to is NOT women knitting or practicing any other so-called 'domestic' art; no, what I object to is your objectification of those pursuits, your attribution of motivations to myself and others whom you do not know, cannot know, because you did not ask any of us why we knit, crochet, or sew. You did not cite any interviews with women, young or otherwise, as to why they craft, or if they increased their output or interest following the attacks of Septmeber 11, 2001. I did not read any Gallup poll data in your polemic. So you choose not to participate in these activities which we find such enjoyment in; that is your right, which I staunchly defend. You are not less of a woman for not being a knitter, any more than am I more of a woman for being one. Who do you think is being 'condescending' towards you for choosing shooting hoops over stitching hats? Quite the contrary, I feel that your attitude was quite condescending when you claimed that my enjoyment of knitting is not my 'choice' but a result of 'peer pressure.' And who, I wonder, do you think pressured me to become a knitter?
You made only one point I found of value in your 'article,' but one from which I came away with a radically divergent conclusion than you did: there is, as you say, "an undercurrent of conservatism" flowing dangerously through our culture in this era of pro-war rhetoric, economic elitism, and repressive attitudes towards women and other disenfranchised groups, BUT, women who exercise their right to choose what they spend their free time pursuing -- be it basketball in your case or knitting in mine -- are advancing women's rights, not giving up the power that women before us fought for and "becoming Aunt Bee." Your implication that knitters are a bunch of Pollyanna Purlers is ridiculous. In my knitting circle -- yes, there are such things, and we prefer to be called 'Stitch and Bitch,' thank you very much -- there are 5 geologists, 3 biologists, 2 botanists, a forester, a professional potter, an NGO media specialist, a radiologist, a teacher, and a yoga instructor. Doesn't sound like a bunch of women tied to "aprons and mops" to me. And Martha Stewart? She's a multimillionaire. Are you?
How dare you say I am hiding in my home, fearful! In fact, I knit in public as often as in my home. The park, my favorite coffee shop, the waiting room of my dentist, in the bar where my Stitch and Bitch "sisters" meet: anywhere I want. "Creating something with my hands" makes me feel powerful, and talented, and sought-after for my knowledge and artistry, and, well, creative! That feeling is control, control over who I choose to be and how I choose to express her essence. And, I beg your pardon, but you don't even exhibit good logic when you assume that because I knit, I must not fight for "real control" for women, or lobby my legislators. This may be my first letter to a wanna-be 'cultural expert' like yourself, but I damn well take the time to make my views known to my congresspersons.
So keep your uninformed, stereo-typing, and divisive OPINIONS to yourself from now on, please. And might I suggest, for your next treatise on why some group you know nothing about does something, you might consider actually ASKING one of them.
Respectfully,
Velma Belchik
Dear Ms. (Miss? Mrs.? Titles matter to you, don't they?) Jameson:
You. Must. Be. Joking. Oh, if only. I have never before written a formal letter to any publication, any journalist, or any website. And know that I cast no aspersions on any woman who chooses to pursue "nesting" activities of any kind for the reasons that you have attributed to all of us crafters; I will not criticize any woman for pursuing any activity that makes her heart soar, which feels good, or which she just picks up on a whim. What I object to is NOT women knitting or practicing any other so-called 'domestic' art; no, what I object to is your objectification of those pursuits, your attribution of motivations to myself and others whom you do not know, cannot know, because you did not ask any of us why we knit, crochet, or sew. You did not cite any interviews with women, young or otherwise, as to why they craft, or if they increased their output or interest following the attacks of Septmeber 11, 2001. I did not read any Gallup poll data in your polemic. So you choose not to participate in these activities which we find such enjoyment in; that is your right, which I staunchly defend. You are not less of a woman for not being a knitter, any more than am I more of a woman for being one. Who do you think is being 'condescending' towards you for choosing shooting hoops over stitching hats? Quite the contrary, I feel that your attitude was quite condescending when you claimed that my enjoyment of knitting is not my 'choice' but a result of 'peer pressure.' And who, I wonder, do you think pressured me to become a knitter?
You made only one point I found of value in your 'article,' but one from which I came away with a radically divergent conclusion than you did: there is, as you say, "an undercurrent of conservatism" flowing dangerously through our culture in this era of pro-war rhetoric, economic elitism, and repressive attitudes towards women and other disenfranchised groups, BUT, women who exercise their right to choose what they spend their free time pursuing -- be it basketball in your case or knitting in mine -- are advancing women's rights, not giving up the power that women before us fought for and "becoming Aunt Bee." Your implication that knitters are a bunch of Pollyanna Purlers is ridiculous. In my knitting circle -- yes, there are such things, and we prefer to be called 'Stitch and Bitch,' thank you very much -- there are 5 geologists, 3 biologists, 2 botanists, a forester, a professional potter, an NGO media specialist, a radiologist, a teacher, and a yoga instructor. Doesn't sound like a bunch of women tied to "aprons and mops" to me. And Martha Stewart? She's a multimillionaire. Are you?
How dare you say I am hiding in my home, fearful! In fact, I knit in public as often as in my home. The park, my favorite coffee shop, the waiting room of my dentist, in the bar where my Stitch and Bitch "sisters" meet: anywhere I want. "Creating something with my hands" makes me feel powerful, and talented, and sought-after for my knowledge and artistry, and, well, creative! That feeling is control, control over who I choose to be and how I choose to express her essence. And, I beg your pardon, but you don't even exhibit good logic when you assume that because I knit, I must not fight for "real control" for women, or lobby my legislators. This may be my first letter to a wanna-be 'cultural expert' like yourself, but I damn well take the time to make my views known to my congresspersons.
So keep your uninformed, stereo-typing, and divisive OPINIONS to yourself from now on, please. And might I suggest, for your next treatise on why some group you know nothing about does something, you might consider actually ASKING one of them.
Respectfully,
Velma Belchik
Wednesday, March 26, 2003
So, since I stepped into the fray last night with my political polemic, and since tonight I watched the wonderful West Wing, with it's most vocabularific verbal jousting and witty rejoinders served up with weighty issues of the day, AND since the topic du jour on said TV drama was the Global Gag Rule on family planning clinics abroad which receive US dollars, wherein if they discuss -- and yes, I said discuss, not perform -- abortions, they are subject to losing ALL aid for their country... While in Real Life, last month, our PotUS extended that Gag Rule by making HIV/AIDS funding contingent upon doctors not even raising the possibility of abortion. Let's recap: Right Hand -- even talking about abortion is baaaad, we shouldn't support it, so let's take $$ for family planning and healthcare away from women and their children living in poverty so they won't even discuss it -- meet Left Hand -- freedom of speech and thought are basic tenets of our great nation, and upholding the right of healthcare professionals to advise their charges with all of the options available, even ones we might find repugnant, is a right we must support. You do not have to support abortion to support the right of a qualified medical provider to explain all of the options available to a woman.
Let me take this opportunity to go out on another ideological limb, since, really EVERYTHING is political, and remind you that March is International Women's Month. So run, don't walk, to your favorite organization and make a donation, a stand, and celebrate women. You can get write a letter to your US Representative (for Americans) here or make a donation here (everyone).
Need more information? May I recommend the following: Planned Parenthood, the Center for Reproductive Rights, Population Action International, National Organization for Women.
Don't even get me started on the environmental damage-and-devastation plotline West Wing explored tonight.
Let me take this opportunity to go out on another ideological limb, since, really EVERYTHING is political, and remind you that March is International Women's Month. So run, don't walk, to your favorite organization and make a donation, a stand, and celebrate women. You can get write a letter to your US Representative (for Americans) here or make a donation here (everyone).
Need more information? May I recommend the following: Planned Parenthood, the Center for Reproductive Rights, Population Action International, National Organization for Women.
Don't even get me started on the environmental damage-and-devastation plotline West Wing explored tonight.
Tuesday, March 25, 2003
All day long I follow the international news media for work, and then I simply cannot help myself, I come home and stay plugged in for part of the evening, too. Can't stand it anymore! I hope every single last soldier gets to go home safe and sound very soon, BUT I cannot believe that the U.S. is pursuing this war in the face of almost complete worldwide denunciation of every motive we have cited as a justification. If, like me, you are interested in a broader perspective on what is transpiring in Iraq, may I respectfully suggest the following sites, which I have found to be particularly useful: The Agonist, BBC online, Democracy Now!, Open Media Watch, Internews, WorldLink TV. I am loathe to tell you what to do, but if your opinion is informed by more than the network news machines, the realities of this war will present themselves.
Monday, March 24, 2003
Gosh, Thanks Everyone!
Holy super exit poll, Batman! I'm flat out *flabbergasted* by all the positive strokes I've received for my lil' ol' blog. Many thanks to everyone who has spent the time it takes to drop me an email, post a comment, or just taken a chance visiting my site. Huge tip o' the hat to Becky at Fluffa, who has been so kind over and over, and has now even linked to Velma's World on her own frontpage - with a squishy-good compliment, no less! And somehow I've risen to 68th-most-popular website on Blizq, out of 1226! I've also got to give it up for the beaut-onamous babes at Bust - they not only chose me as an "Editor's Pick" but have directed more new visitors to my site than any other single source! Not bad for a blog that's only one month old, eh? But I have to say that I never would have done it without the inspiration of all the other bloggers out there. Becky, Nicole, Betsy, Carolyn, Stella, Nathan, Bea - keep setting the bar high, and I'll try to stay right on your heels!
With that, I give you the new and (hopefully) improved look of Velma's World that you see before you. Let it be easier on your eyes, more enticing to your psyche and (please!) less HTML-code intensive. Now I'll be able to spend some of the time I've been putting into getting the look of the place the way I want into actually DOING some KNITTING. And maybe then, my creative juices flowing, I'll be able to put a little more oomph into the content. Form is good, after all, but function, ah, both together: that's a beautiful thing.
So please, everyone, sign into my guest map, enjoy the new layout while I work on a logo, and leave me lots of FEEDBACK. I live for your opinions. OK, that's an utter lie. Obviously, I live for knitting ;) But I do want to hear from you - tell me what you think about the joint. And thanks for visiting. Cheers!
Holy super exit poll, Batman! I'm flat out *flabbergasted* by all the positive strokes I've received for my lil' ol' blog. Many thanks to everyone who has spent the time it takes to drop me an email, post a comment, or just taken a chance visiting my site. Huge tip o' the hat to Becky at Fluffa, who has been so kind over and over, and has now even linked to Velma's World on her own frontpage - with a squishy-good compliment, no less! And somehow I've risen to 68th-most-popular website on Blizq, out of 1226! I've also got to give it up for the beaut-onamous babes at Bust - they not only chose me as an "Editor's Pick" but have directed more new visitors to my site than any other single source! Not bad for a blog that's only one month old, eh? But I have to say that I never would have done it without the inspiration of all the other bloggers out there. Becky, Nicole, Betsy, Carolyn, Stella, Nathan, Bea - keep setting the bar high, and I'll try to stay right on your heels!
With that, I give you the new and (hopefully) improved look of Velma's World that you see before you. Let it be easier on your eyes, more enticing to your psyche and (please!) less HTML-code intensive. Now I'll be able to spend some of the time I've been putting into getting the look of the place the way I want into actually DOING some KNITTING. And maybe then, my creative juices flowing, I'll be able to put a little more oomph into the content. Form is good, after all, but function, ah, both together: that's a beautiful thing.
So please, everyone, sign into my guest map, enjoy the new layout while I work on a logo, and leave me lots of FEEDBACK. I live for your opinions. OK, that's an utter lie. Obviously, I live for knitting ;) But I do want to hear from you - tell me what you think about the joint. And thanks for visiting. Cheers!
Sunday, March 23, 2003
End-o-Weekend Post
There have been so many inquiries about my lovely shoes from a few days ago, that I've decided that I must share my source. Although constitutionally reluctant to share my fit-for-a-queen cobbler with the masses (that's you) - here you go, and don't say I never gave you nuthin,' you heathens: point your browser at www.fluevog.com and you too can own these dainties. Cheers!
There have been so many inquiries about my lovely shoes from a few days ago, that I've decided that I must share my source. Although constitutionally reluctant to share my fit-for-a-queen cobbler with the masses (that's you) - here you go, and don't say I never gave you nuthin,' you heathens: point your browser at www.fluevog.com and you too can own these dainties. Cheers!
Friday, March 21, 2003
Three's Company
Snagged a camera from work, took some photos last night, enlisted a co-worker to loan me a card reader, and voila! We have ourselves a Kodak moment.
First we have the completed Ponytail Hat, knit up in only a few easy hours using Colinette Point 5.
Next is the loooong in coming 3-stranded scarf, which I finally completed after tracking down enough yarn to finish. Please excuse the feather hat; I got a little carried away.
And last but not least, what I've taken to calling my Ice Cream Hat, as the colors conjure drippy, melty, peppermint ice cream cones from my youth.
What do you think?
Snagged a camera from work, took some photos last night, enlisted a co-worker to loan me a card reader, and voila! We have ourselves a Kodak moment.
First we have the completed Ponytail Hat, knit up in only a few easy hours using Colinette Point 5.
Next is the loooong in coming 3-stranded scarf, which I finally completed after tracking down enough yarn to finish. Please excuse the feather hat; I got a little carried away.
And last but not least, what I've taken to calling my Ice Cream Hat, as the colors conjure drippy, melty, peppermint ice cream cones from my youth.
What do you think?
Thursday, March 20, 2003
One, Two, Buckle My Shoe
check out the new Guest Map feature - show me where you're coming from
fixed broken links - no more x'ed-out photos
added site to several blog resources - vote for me, por favor
Of course, I still haven't figured out how to make some fairly basic formatting goodies happen, so I can't be all that clever. So if anyone out there actually reads this rag, AND knows how/wants to offer a little assistance, I'd gush like a schoolgirl if they stepped forward. I mean, it's not like I want to put Flash on my site; I just want to add another bar on the right side of the page, for fcuk's sake. And get rid of those damn hyperlink underlines. Really.
Couln't download the new knitpics, so thought I'd post a photo of a favorite pair of shoes instead.
Tonight was filled with tweaking code to improve the way the blog looks; nothing too significant, but hopefully the changes will be another step toward a top-shelf interface. You be the judge: feel free to comment here on your thoughts.
Of course, I still haven't figured out how to make some fairly basic formatting goodies happen, so I can't be all that clever. So if anyone out there actually reads this rag, AND knows how/wants to offer a little assistance, I'd gush like a schoolgirl if they stepped forward. I mean, it's not like I want to put Flash on my site; I just want to add another bar on the right side of the page, for fcuk's sake. And get rid of those damn hyperlink underlines. Really.
Monday, March 17, 2003
Finished the Ponytail Hat tonight, but since the camera is down, can't post a picture yet. So in it's place, thought I'd introduce Max, mouser extraordinaire, friend of skunks, squirrel-chaser maniac, and all around Great Cat.
Sunday, March 16, 2003
Gotta Have a Hat
Started working on Betsy's Ponytail Hat design today. This is my first experience working with thick-and-thin slub yarn, and I'm finding it a little disconcerting, but I am happy with the results as it knits up. I'm using Colinette Point 5 purchased on eBay from Toadal. The colorway is marked as "#20," which is, as you can see, a soft mix of cotton-candy pink, ice blue, and a hint of mint. It feels wonderful in my hands, and I think it makes a nice alternative to Labrador, which is what Betsy used in her prototype. The pattern she sent me is a little longer than the one in her image at Straw.com; she told me she thought the original sat somewhat too high on the forehead, so she added some extra rows. Although she suggested Crystal Palace needles, I am working with #13 Addi Turbos, as I am a tight knitter, and the slickness of the Turbos seems to compensate for that a bit.
Finished the WednesdayThursday Hat (above) and wore it to the Peace Rally in Eureka yesterday with my Crafters are Not Terrorists T-shirt. I didn't get any coverage, but the hubby-bubby did. He couldn't make it to the Peace Rally because he was presenting at the American Fisheries Society meeting in Arcata, and was quoted in this article in the local rag. Go Belchik!
Thursday, March 13, 2003
Must. Borrow. Camera. SOON. Damn technology, I'm so dependent on it. I finished the Wednesday-Thursday hat (named that 'cuz I knit it Wednesday and Thursday nights after work) tonight, but can't put up a picture 'til this weekend when I can get my hands on hubby's camera when I see him. It's knit using the Funny Lux I posted a photo of earlier this week, and I like the way it turned out. Just a roll-brim in stockinette, but fuuuuzzzy!
I've been really diggin' knitting hats, and I'm going to embark on another one tomorrow. Betsy, of Shizknits fame, was kind enough to acquiesce to my request that she share the pattern for her ponytail hat. I've got a skein of Colinette Point 5 in an unmarked colorway that I think will look just faboo knit up into this hat. Huzzahs to Betsy for sharing! I'll try to get pictures of it in progress this time; I finished the W-T hat before I could get a WIP photo up.
I've been really diggin' knitting hats, and I'm going to embark on another one tomorrow. Betsy, of Shizknits fame, was kind enough to acquiesce to my request that she share the pattern for her ponytail hat. I've got a skein of Colinette Point 5 in an unmarked colorway that I think will look just faboo knit up into this hat. Huzzahs to Betsy for sharing! I'll try to get pictures of it in progress this time; I finished the W-T hat before I could get a WIP photo up.
Wednesday, March 12, 2003
Knit, knit, knit, knit. Finally doing more with the needles than the mouse! Got so many WIPs littering the house, you'd think I'd just held up my LYS. They, I am convinced, are conspiring to bury me in beautiful yarn. Those fiends! Each day, the big question is: buy food, or buy yarn? Pay the utility bill, or buy yarn? I simply can't control myself. Take today, for example. I had every intention of staying away from my LYS. I mean, they always say they like seeing me every day, but how exciting can it be for them having me show up every day to show off my newest arrival from eBay? So today, I was all set to just stay away, not feed my habit. But no, they were having none of that. I get a call, just before lunch, from Diane, who's purring into my ear, just like the pusher she is, saying "Ooh, Velma, I just got your special delivery in today. I know you want it. It will be hear waiting for you." How am I supposed to resist that? She brought "samples" back from her trip to Idaho, where she visited her friend Lynda who owns a yarn store there. Absolutely beautiful handspun, that's what she brought back! And she could get me some, as much as I wanted, at a really low price. What was I to do, just say "No, thank you, I don't do that kind of thing?" No! I had to have some. So today, when she called, and purred in my ear, I ran to my LYS to get my hands on that handspun. And you know what? It was even more beautiful than I'd remembered. And Lynda had changed the colors to better suit my preferences. It is gorgeous. And I love it. And I'm not ashamed to say: "I AM ADDICTED TO YARN."
While our nation prepares for a war that seemingly NO ONE wants, let's turn to the lighter side: knitting revelry at Purl & Hurl.
Our "little" knitting circle has turned into a veritable babe-fest! Last night we were 18-strong, and quite a lot to contend with for the staff and other patrons at Plaza Grill. Although we experienced some serious logistical problems, ie. getting food and drink (DON'T get me started), all was well in the end. I think everyone that wanted something got something, although not necessarily what they intended. But with a group of that size, you've gotta expect some bumps along the way. Major kudos to Maura, the queen maitre d' for helping out in a pinch. After a friendly consultation with her, I think we should have fewer problems next week. BUT to make this work in the future, I'm going to need something from you, m'dears: I'll require a more accurate head-count for the reservation. Last night I said 10 and then 18 of us showed up -- not good. So, in future weeks, please let me know if we should expect you Tuesday night. We'll try this for a few weeks, then revisit the system to see how it works for everyone.
Enough business, down to the knitty-gritty! What a raucous good time we all had! Several newcomers were in our midst, and to them I extend a hearty Hurler 'welcome!' Thanks to Jay and Liz for bringing new members Jenny and Mieke, and especially for bringing new members that don't need instruction ;) And a big Stitch 'n Bitch congrats to Tamara's beau Michael, for sticking it out with a bunch of loud OCD crafters!
Speaking of crafters: I found the coolest propaganda item for sale yesterday! I am going to try to secure one to wear at the Peace March in Eureka on Saturday (contact Tamara or me for more info on that). Available in both women's (shown) and men's and available here, it looks like this:
The Peace March was just one of the topics of discussion last night, albeit a weighty one. (Several of us plan on attending, and it would be great to have a stong Purl & Hurl contingent. Think about it. ) Besides the March, many inquiries were made Re: Eileen & Chris' exam, to wit, "Are you Rock-studly or Rock-dudly?" That remains to be seen, as the results are not yet in, but methinks that test-scores notwithstanding, both are Rock-studly. I'm sure in coming weeks we'll hear more from them on the subject.
Natalie, Tamara and Kathleen have all escaped the throes of the Humboldt Crud and were back in fine knitting knettle last night. Kathleen is between projects, so nothing to report there, and Tamara was such a hot commodity that I didn't get a chance to see how her scarf has progressed, but Natalie, "WOW" is all I can say! For someone who claimed to be a newbie, you sure picked up the needles like a pro! She's got some kind of slipped-stitch, tubular dude, cudly-as-hell scarf-thingy going on! Bee-u-timous! Jay has loosened up his stitching a bit, and while not actually working on his scarf between Purl & Hurl gatherings, seems to be enjoying himself mightily. His Samsonite yarn 'bag' is still a huge hit. His lovely friend Jenny was working on socks, as was Chris. Mieke gets the award for the most unique project of the night: she's creating a useful hemp kitchen scrubby. Heather, Anna, Gwen, Kat, Liz, Mary - all are knitting scarf-tacularly. Cheri roped Eileen into helping her as she makes her first foray into hat-dom; in her very first hat lesson, Cheri learned about ripping out and re-casting on (a subject that I am all too familiar with). And Simone, finding her 20-yearish-old yarn stash uninspiring, brought some brand-spanking new scrumptious red stuff and started yet again on a scarf. She says that one more change, this time of needle size, should do it. Lastly, Velma received her long-awaited yarn needed to complete her 3-strand scarf, and knit happily away between compliments on her oh-so-trendy ensemble and complaining about not having any sustenance, liquid or otherwise (sorry to all for my dissatisfaction; but they forgot my dinner order 3 times! The comped 'make-up soup' was great though ;)
So the scorecard for last night reads as follows: 45 assorted cocktails, 18 happy knitters, 11 scarves-in-progress, 3 Caesar salads, 2 pairs of socks, 1 cast-on hat, and a hemp scrubby for the new gaaaaaal (to be sung to the 12 Days of Christmas, I suppose). Whew!
Before I close, let me convey long-distance greetings from Ev, who is, apparently, so 'busy' enjoying the luxuries Hawaii has to offer that she needed to have Tyler send her hellos - good for her! Hopefully, she'll bring some of that balmy Hawaiian weather back in her suitcase for us. I for one am tiring of the gray Humboldt March already, and have been enjoying the tulips on the Plaza inordinately. HELLO SPRING!!
Juicy link of the day: Cast Off, a like-minded group of knitters in the U.K. (United Knitters or United Kingdom - you be the judge). Be sure to check out the press page to read an hilarious article about their unusual-venue gatherings, complete with a 'stunt-knitter.'
Guess that's all. (You must be *exhausted*...)
Next meeting: Tuesday, March 18th at 6:30pm at Plaza Grill. Until then, keep knitting. It's cheaper than therapy.
Our "little" knitting circle has turned into a veritable babe-fest! Last night we were 18-strong, and quite a lot to contend with for the staff and other patrons at Plaza Grill. Although we experienced some serious logistical problems, ie. getting food and drink (DON'T get me started), all was well in the end. I think everyone that wanted something got something, although not necessarily what they intended. But with a group of that size, you've gotta expect some bumps along the way. Major kudos to Maura, the queen maitre d' for helping out in a pinch. After a friendly consultation with her, I think we should have fewer problems next week. BUT to make this work in the future, I'm going to need something from you, m'dears: I'll require a more accurate head-count for the reservation. Last night I said 10 and then 18 of us showed up -- not good. So, in future weeks, please let me know if we should expect you Tuesday night. We'll try this for a few weeks, then revisit the system to see how it works for everyone.
Enough business, down to the knitty-gritty! What a raucous good time we all had! Several newcomers were in our midst, and to them I extend a hearty Hurler 'welcome!' Thanks to Jay and Liz for bringing new members Jenny and Mieke, and especially for bringing new members that don't need instruction ;) And a big Stitch 'n Bitch congrats to Tamara's beau Michael, for sticking it out with a bunch of loud OCD crafters!
Speaking of crafters: I found the coolest propaganda item for sale yesterday! I am going to try to secure one to wear at the Peace March in Eureka on Saturday (contact Tamara or me for more info on that). Available in both women's (shown) and men's and available here, it looks like this:
The Peace March was just one of the topics of discussion last night, albeit a weighty one. (Several of us plan on attending, and it would be great to have a stong Purl & Hurl contingent. Think about it. ) Besides the March, many inquiries were made Re: Eileen & Chris' exam, to wit, "Are you Rock-studly or Rock-dudly?" That remains to be seen, as the results are not yet in, but methinks that test-scores notwithstanding, both are Rock-studly. I'm sure in coming weeks we'll hear more from them on the subject.
Natalie, Tamara and Kathleen have all escaped the throes of the Humboldt Crud and were back in fine knitting knettle last night. Kathleen is between projects, so nothing to report there, and Tamara was such a hot commodity that I didn't get a chance to see how her scarf has progressed, but Natalie, "WOW" is all I can say! For someone who claimed to be a newbie, you sure picked up the needles like a pro! She's got some kind of slipped-stitch, tubular dude, cudly-as-hell scarf-thingy going on! Bee-u-timous! Jay has loosened up his stitching a bit, and while not actually working on his scarf between Purl & Hurl gatherings, seems to be enjoying himself mightily. His Samsonite yarn 'bag' is still a huge hit. His lovely friend Jenny was working on socks, as was Chris. Mieke gets the award for the most unique project of the night: she's creating a useful hemp kitchen scrubby. Heather, Anna, Gwen, Kat, Liz, Mary - all are knitting scarf-tacularly. Cheri roped Eileen into helping her as she makes her first foray into hat-dom; in her very first hat lesson, Cheri learned about ripping out and re-casting on (a subject that I am all too familiar with). And Simone, finding her 20-yearish-old yarn stash uninspiring, brought some brand-spanking new scrumptious red stuff and started yet again on a scarf. She says that one more change, this time of needle size, should do it. Lastly, Velma received her long-awaited yarn needed to complete her 3-strand scarf, and knit happily away between compliments on her oh-so-trendy ensemble and complaining about not having any sustenance, liquid or otherwise (sorry to all for my dissatisfaction; but they forgot my dinner order 3 times! The comped 'make-up soup' was great though ;)
So the scorecard for last night reads as follows: 45 assorted cocktails, 18 happy knitters, 11 scarves-in-progress, 3 Caesar salads, 2 pairs of socks, 1 cast-on hat, and a hemp scrubby for the new gaaaaaal (to be sung to the 12 Days of Christmas, I suppose). Whew!
Before I close, let me convey long-distance greetings from Ev, who is, apparently, so 'busy' enjoying the luxuries Hawaii has to offer that she needed to have Tyler send her hellos - good for her! Hopefully, she'll bring some of that balmy Hawaiian weather back in her suitcase for us. I for one am tiring of the gray Humboldt March already, and have been enjoying the tulips on the Plaza inordinately. HELLO SPRING!!
Juicy link of the day: Cast Off, a like-minded group of knitters in the U.K. (United Knitters or United Kingdom - you be the judge). Be sure to check out the press page to read an hilarious article about their unusual-venue gatherings, complete with a 'stunt-knitter.'
Guess that's all. (You must be *exhausted*...)
Next meeting: Tuesday, March 18th at 6:30pm at Plaza Grill. Until then, keep knitting. It's cheaper than therapy.
Tuesday, March 11, 2003
Whew, what a full day! My snail-mail was chock-full of textile goodness today. Both the Colinette Prism 'Harlequin' (above) from eBay and the long-awaited re-stash of Adriafil Grape #56 from Village Yarns in Canada arrived. Good thing the Grape got here, too, 'cuz I needed something brainless to work on at Purl & Hurl tonight, and the 3-strand scarf which uses it was just the ticket. On hold since January when I ran out, it should be done very soon. Thanks Julia at Village Yarns for coming through with the discontinued color I needed.
As for a recount of Purl & Hurl, well, you'll just have to wait 'til tomorrow. I'm such a tease...
Submitted my limerick to Wendy's contest - now nothing to do but wait for the outcome.
Found the buttons to use for my Kermit Kardigan, but no pattern yet.
ANNOUNCEMENT: Next Purl & Hurl is tonight, Tuesday, March 11 @ 6:30pm at Plaza Grill. Be there.
Found the buttons to use for my Kermit Kardigan, but no pattern yet.
ANNOUNCEMENT: Next Purl & Hurl is tonight, Tuesday, March 11 @ 6:30pm at Plaza Grill. Be there.
Monday, March 10, 2003
Yeee, haaaaw! Hot damn, all the HTML, technology and knitting planets must be in alignment, because I've finally gotten my digital camera AND my code working in synchronicity. So now, for your viewing pleasure, let me direct your attention to all of the active hotlinks located to your left, comprising the following categories:
1. still in stashed skeins - that would be the projects on the drawing board
2. cast on & away we go! - works in progress, or, WIPs if you prefer
3. bound off & ends woven in - here, dear reader, you will find my completed projects
Please, peruse these pics at your leisure, and report back to me. I'm a new knitter, having learned at the knee of my esteemed knit guru Eileen W., aka "Weener," in November of 2002. You might say that I'm now a bit obsessed with my new "hobby." And I love feedback, especially in the form of praise. But feel free to be brutally honest. I can even accept such harsh criticism as "That's nice," or "Good job for a beginner." ;) Be lavish, be clever, but say something.
And let me introduce you to my model, Betty2 (Betty1 was my '64 Impala 4-door V8, sweeeet!). Give it up for Betty2!!!!!
1. still in stashed skeins - that would be the projects on the drawing board
2. cast on & away we go! - works in progress, or, WIPs if you prefer
3. bound off & ends woven in - here, dear reader, you will find my completed projects
Please, peruse these pics at your leisure, and report back to me. I'm a new knitter, having learned at the knee of my esteemed knit guru Eileen W., aka "Weener," in November of 2002. You might say that I'm now a bit obsessed with my new "hobby." And I love feedback, especially in the form of praise. But feel free to be brutally honest. I can even accept such harsh criticism as "That's nice," or "Good job for a beginner." ;) Be lavish, be clever, but say something.
And let me introduce you to my model, Betty2 (Betty1 was my '64 Impala 4-door V8, sweeeet!). Give it up for Betty2!!!!!
Sunday, March 09, 2003
What is the appropriate emoticon to convey a sigh of contentment? I spent the better part of the day de-bugging the code for the blog, and I think I've successfully worked out some of the major kinks. The comment feature for individual posts is back online; you'll be able to see your message as you are typing now, as I deduced that the problem was a white-font on white-background issue (doh!), and changed that. I added a second color to the TagBoard message center in the sidebar to visually set comments apart. And, as you can see, I've been learning how to put pictures up. I did an extensive 'photo shoot' this morning of finished projects and works-in-progress, with the intention of getting them uploaded here for your viewing pleasure, but alas, that wasn't to be. Since my digicam was down for the count, I borrowed one from the office, but it wasn't any healthier. Now I've got a couple dozen good pics, but can't download them; some problem with the driver. So I stepped awaaay from the computer, went and saw Chicago (3 thumbs up, as I saw it with 2 friends and we all liked it), and I'll try again with the photos tomorrow.
Friday, March 07, 2003
Happy, Happy, Joy, Joy!! (Exclamatory comments are the order of the day, hmmm?) I've been quite acquisitive yarn-wise of late, and have beefed-up my stash significantly. Today I acquired this cache of exquisitely-tart green donegal wool on eBay:
Don't you just love it? Makes me think of the lovely Bonnie Marie, Queen of ChicKnits, who just lives for what she calls "Shrek-green" - I think she'd be proud! But what to create with it? 1360 yards, my, my, what I could do with all that yardage! I'm thinking a frisky cardigan, with some quirky, vintage buttons. What do you think?
Don't you just love it? Makes me think of the lovely Bonnie Marie, Queen of ChicKnits, who just lives for what she calls "Shrek-green" - I think she'd be proud! But what to create with it? 1360 yards, my, my, what I could do with all that yardage! I'm thinking a frisky cardigan, with some quirky, vintage buttons. What do you think?
What a rush! Someone referenced Velma's World on their blog!
When I accessed Velma's World this morning, as I do every morning post-coffee/pre-work, to see if anyone left me a comment in the sidebar during the wee hours of the morning after I closed up the blog-shop, I was initially crushed to find that nothing was loading on the page. Just the Blogspot banner ad across a sea of pink. "Oh, no, where did all the work I put in last night go," I thought. So I opened up another browser window, to see if other blogs hosted by Blogspot were having trouble, and pointed my browser at betseeee knits!, blog of the woman who I emailed yesterday to solicit advice about my upcoming Top Secret sweater (see below). Her page loaded, no problem, so I knew it wasn't Blogspot's server causing the glitch. But what I did see amazed me! Right there, at the top of the page, was my name, in lovely hyperlink-blue, giving every and all visitors to betseeee knits! the opportunity to check out my own humble blog. Admittedly, I am easily impressed, but she made my whole day. I feel like I've been offered membership in an exclusive club.
So be sure to go on over to betseeee knits!, check out her lovely blog, which is much more sophisticated than mine, let me assure you, and check out what she said about lil' ole me. And thanks, Betsy!
When I accessed Velma's World this morning, as I do every morning post-coffee/pre-work, to see if anyone left me a comment in the sidebar during the wee hours of the morning after I closed up the blog-shop, I was initially crushed to find that nothing was loading on the page. Just the Blogspot banner ad across a sea of pink. "Oh, no, where did all the work I put in last night go," I thought. So I opened up another browser window, to see if other blogs hosted by Blogspot were having trouble, and pointed my browser at betseeee knits!, blog of the woman who I emailed yesterday to solicit advice about my upcoming Top Secret sweater (see below). Her page loaded, no problem, so I knew it wasn't Blogspot's server causing the glitch. But what I did see amazed me! Right there, at the top of the page, was my name, in lovely hyperlink-blue, giving every and all visitors to betseeee knits! the opportunity to check out my own humble blog. Admittedly, I am easily impressed, but she made my whole day. I feel like I've been offered membership in an exclusive club.
So be sure to go on over to betseeee knits!, check out her lovely blog, which is much more sophisticated than mine, let me assure you, and check out what she said about lil' ole me. And thanks, Betsy!
Thursday, March 06, 2003
Ayeeeai!! The chocolate-y goodness of the Gedifra Dandy yarn I ordered from BeehiveWool.com in B.C. Canada arrived today, all 20 scrumptious skeins of it! And those sweeties at Beehive were kind enough to tuck a copy of the Gedifra Highlights #12 pattern book in the package before shipping, which oh-so-serendipitously contained a pattern I'd been seeking fruitlessly, not knowing where it came from.
After agonizing for weeks over what yarn would be most appropriate for my very first sweater project, I finally chose the Dandy in color #1412. Isn't it yummy?
So now I'm ready to embark on my Knitty Top Secret sweater. I started by doing something I haven't done before (shame on me!) - I knit a gauge swatch! I mean, if Martha Stewart says I gotta, then, I gotta, right? Well, luckily for my A.D.D. personality, it came out *exactly* to gauge the first time, on the suggested #10.5 circs (Addi's, my fave). (I would post a pic of the swatch, but my ding-dang-smack@#$%ing digicam is in the shop. Soon. Very soon.)
So, I'm rarin' to go, and it's only 10pm here on the left coast, so time to get stitchin.'
After agonizing for weeks over what yarn would be most appropriate for my very first sweater project, I finally chose the Dandy in color #1412. Isn't it yummy?
So now I'm ready to embark on my Knitty Top Secret sweater. I started by doing something I haven't done before (shame on me!) - I knit a gauge swatch! I mean, if Martha Stewart says I gotta, then, I gotta, right? Well, luckily for my A.D.D. personality, it came out *exactly* to gauge the first time, on the suggested #10.5 circs (Addi's, my fave). (I would post a pic of the swatch, but my ding-dang-smack@#$%ing digicam is in the shop. Soon. Very soon.)
So, I'm rarin' to go, and it's only 10pm here on the left coast, so time to get stitchin.'
Wednesday, March 05, 2003
Some friends from San Francisco have a wonderful gallery where they exhibit tres chic photos by ALL the best photogs of the Bay Area and beyond. Soon, they will be hosting the first group show at their new location. Titled "SEX in the CITY: Love, Sex and Gender in San Francisco2," it will run March 6-27th. If you find yourself in S.F., be sure to stop in and say "Hi" for Velma (see sidebar for link to show).
The question of the day: "How much caffeine does it take to make Velma amusing?" You'll have to answer that sticky question for yourself.
Onward, into the void! We had quite a mellow little gathering last eve, Fat Tuesday (heh heh, we luvs Mardi Gras), as 7 stalwart knitter babes and one knitter knave met at Plaza Grill for the usual Patter on a Platter. Our ranks were diminished by the continued influence of the Humboldt Crud, still being passed around and now felling both Tamara and Natalie, as well as maintaining it's grippe on Kathleen. We send you good chicken-soup vibes and our wishes for a speedy recovery, girlz. In addition, the Exam to Achieve Registered Geologist Licensing and General All-Around Rock Goddess Status is being administered in our State Capital (aka Sackatomatoes, CA) this upcoming Friday, and we lost Eileen and Chris to Study Hell. To them, we wish Bon Chance and a celebratory pitcher of Cosmos after!
But even sans regulars, we turned out and knit up a storm. Your author was pleasantly surprised by the presence of one Heather B. and her self-designed scarf. She, it was learned, just returned from the jungle wilds of the Yucatan, where she spent 2 fun-filled weeks with her beau traipsing up and down the steps of the ruins of Chichen Itza, Coba, Tulum and Ek Balam. How much fun is that! If asked, Heather can produce lovely pics of her excursion, comprised mainly of shots of the botanical wonders found there. (Oh, and on a side note, please contact Heather if you, or any intrepid soul you know, is interested in posing nude for one of her legendary photo sessions. She is embarking on her newest 'photo weaving' project, which, your author can attest, produces beautiful and surprising results. Velma loves her "Punkin' Butt" series ;)
In addition to Heather's participation, we had our very first Knutty Knitter! (This is in contrast to all us Pussy Purlers, I suppose). Give it up for Jay, who arrived toting his newly-acquired yarn and needles in a vintage Samsonite briefcase; very creative. Without our Knitting Instructor Extraordinaire, Eileen, Jay had to rely on the substitute teachings of Velma. Musta worked, though, as Jay is well on his way to being the proud owner of a lovely garter stitch, fuzzy scarf knit up in complementary brown wool and butter-yellow mohair. Although he seems to be wound pretty tight, judging by how hard he tugs on that yarn (wouldn't want it to go anywhere) when knitting, he's the speediest learner in the West.
Let me introduce you to our third new participant, Mary U., who is a compatriot and colleague of the Velmster. She, like the mystery Liz whom only Jay has met, works with Velma at Internews, but way out in Sunny Brae at the accounting office. Mary is a lapsed knitter, coming back to the fold with a vengeance, working on her first-ever pair of socks. Mary, I feel your pain! Those #2 needles are bitch, especially when you forget your glasses, eh? ;)
Who else graced our table with their presence? Hmmm, let's see. Well, Simone was back from her backpacking sojourn, and although she said she drug her knitting along with her on said trip, she only made it as far as casting on. Way to stay focused on the wonders of nature, Simone. Her seed-stitch scarf is now underway. Kat was there, and her she got her scarf to the stage where she is ready to re-learn how to bind-off (bind on, bind off, bind on, THE BINDER -- to be sung to the tune of 'The Clapper'). She shoulda watched Cheri, who also got to the bind-off stage last night. After Velma got done with Jay, she moved down to Cheri's end of the table, and now not only does Cheri know how to bind-off, but she's the proud owner of a beautiful 2x2 ribbed purple scarf knit in Merino Frappe. Congrats on your first completed project, Cheri! Trooper that she is, she says she's now ready to try her hand at a hat (more below on hats).
We also had one fiber arts-free participant last night, who instead of string-and-sticks brought her medical terminology homework with her, and studied up to become an x-ray tech. But she DID sport a fantastic, albeit machine-knit, hat reminiscent of Dr. Seuss, featuring several wool 'fingers' sprouting from it. Velma wants to attempt to replicate the pattern for the upcoming Hat Contest (again, see below). And who was this mystery guest? Why, our Honorary Hurler, MIKKEL.
And where was Anna? And Gwen? And Steph? And Ev? Shame on you, we missed you! They must have been home gettin' some; what else would keep them away? Hope to see 'em all next week.
So what's this about a Hat Contest, you ask? Well, I'll tell you. Ms. Diane, who many of you know from your shopping excursions to Fabric Temptations, our wonderful LYS (Local Yarn Store), suggested it. Her idea: each P&H'er can make a hat of their choosing, and Diane will create a window display around 'em at Fabric Temptations. Employees there will also participate, and we can all cast a vote on which hat we like the best. I'm even hoping I can convince 'Lenny, the esteemed Proprietress of F.T., to put up some scrumptious wool for the winner. Whatchya think? Eileen and Velma could do a Hat Clinic in advance, so everyone would be armed with the knowledge of how to knit in the round (necessary for making a hat). Your author is already designing a Reservoir Tip Redux-Hat for her contribution, in addition to copying Mikkel's chapeau. Weigh in on this subject and more at the next Purl & Hurl gathering.
Which leads, gentle reader, to the close of this missive. I'd like to end with a juicy link to the new Spring issue of Knitty, found at www.knitty.com, and a reminder that we next meet Tuesday, March 11th at 6:30pm at Plaza Grill. Come one, come all! Until then, I wish you happy knitting and adieu.
Cheers, xoxo Velma
Onward, into the void! We had quite a mellow little gathering last eve, Fat Tuesday (heh heh, we luvs Mardi Gras), as 7 stalwart knitter babes and one knitter knave met at Plaza Grill for the usual Patter on a Platter. Our ranks were diminished by the continued influence of the Humboldt Crud, still being passed around and now felling both Tamara and Natalie, as well as maintaining it's grippe on Kathleen. We send you good chicken-soup vibes and our wishes for a speedy recovery, girlz. In addition, the Exam to Achieve Registered Geologist Licensing and General All-Around Rock Goddess Status is being administered in our State Capital (aka Sackatomatoes, CA) this upcoming Friday, and we lost Eileen and Chris to Study Hell. To them, we wish Bon Chance and a celebratory pitcher of Cosmos after!
But even sans regulars, we turned out and knit up a storm. Your author was pleasantly surprised by the presence of one Heather B. and her self-designed scarf. She, it was learned, just returned from the jungle wilds of the Yucatan, where she spent 2 fun-filled weeks with her beau traipsing up and down the steps of the ruins of Chichen Itza, Coba, Tulum and Ek Balam. How much fun is that! If asked, Heather can produce lovely pics of her excursion, comprised mainly of shots of the botanical wonders found there. (Oh, and on a side note, please contact Heather if you, or any intrepid soul you know, is interested in posing nude for one of her legendary photo sessions. She is embarking on her newest 'photo weaving' project, which, your author can attest, produces beautiful and surprising results. Velma loves her "Punkin' Butt" series ;)
In addition to Heather's participation, we had our very first Knutty Knitter! (This is in contrast to all us Pussy Purlers, I suppose). Give it up for Jay, who arrived toting his newly-acquired yarn and needles in a vintage Samsonite briefcase; very creative. Without our Knitting Instructor Extraordinaire, Eileen, Jay had to rely on the substitute teachings of Velma. Musta worked, though, as Jay is well on his way to being the proud owner of a lovely garter stitch, fuzzy scarf knit up in complementary brown wool and butter-yellow mohair. Although he seems to be wound pretty tight, judging by how hard he tugs on that yarn (wouldn't want it to go anywhere) when knitting, he's the speediest learner in the West.
Let me introduce you to our third new participant, Mary U., who is a compatriot and colleague of the Velmster. She, like the mystery Liz whom only Jay has met, works with Velma at Internews, but way out in Sunny Brae at the accounting office. Mary is a lapsed knitter, coming back to the fold with a vengeance, working on her first-ever pair of socks. Mary, I feel your pain! Those #2 needles are bitch, especially when you forget your glasses, eh? ;)
Who else graced our table with their presence? Hmmm, let's see. Well, Simone was back from her backpacking sojourn, and although she said she drug her knitting along with her on said trip, she only made it as far as casting on. Way to stay focused on the wonders of nature, Simone. Her seed-stitch scarf is now underway. Kat was there, and her she got her scarf to the stage where she is ready to re-learn how to bind-off (bind on, bind off, bind on, THE BINDER -- to be sung to the tune of 'The Clapper'). She shoulda watched Cheri, who also got to the bind-off stage last night. After Velma got done with Jay, she moved down to Cheri's end of the table, and now not only does Cheri know how to bind-off, but she's the proud owner of a beautiful 2x2 ribbed purple scarf knit in Merino Frappe. Congrats on your first completed project, Cheri! Trooper that she is, she says she's now ready to try her hand at a hat (more below on hats).
We also had one fiber arts-free participant last night, who instead of string-and-sticks brought her medical terminology homework with her, and studied up to become an x-ray tech. But she DID sport a fantastic, albeit machine-knit, hat reminiscent of Dr. Seuss, featuring several wool 'fingers' sprouting from it. Velma wants to attempt to replicate the pattern for the upcoming Hat Contest (again, see below). And who was this mystery guest? Why, our Honorary Hurler, MIKKEL.
And where was Anna? And Gwen? And Steph? And Ev? Shame on you, we missed you! They must have been home gettin' some; what else would keep them away? Hope to see 'em all next week.
So what's this about a Hat Contest, you ask? Well, I'll tell you. Ms. Diane, who many of you know from your shopping excursions to Fabric Temptations, our wonderful LYS (Local Yarn Store), suggested it. Her idea: each P&H'er can make a hat of their choosing, and Diane will create a window display around 'em at Fabric Temptations. Employees there will also participate, and we can all cast a vote on which hat we like the best. I'm even hoping I can convince 'Lenny, the esteemed Proprietress of F.T., to put up some scrumptious wool for the winner. Whatchya think? Eileen and Velma could do a Hat Clinic in advance, so everyone would be armed with the knowledge of how to knit in the round (necessary for making a hat). Your author is already designing a Reservoir Tip Redux-Hat for her contribution, in addition to copying Mikkel's chapeau. Weigh in on this subject and more at the next Purl & Hurl gathering.
Which leads, gentle reader, to the close of this missive. I'd like to end with a juicy link to the new Spring issue of Knitty, found at www.knitty.com, and a reminder that we next meet Tuesday, March 11th at 6:30pm at Plaza Grill. Come one, come all! Until then, I wish you happy knitting and adieu.
Cheers, xoxo Velma
Monday, March 03, 2003
Well, the good news is, I've secured server space to host photos, and I've more or less figured out how to operate the ftp software, and successfully loaded an image to Velma's World. The bad news, which you will be aware of if you checked out the 'test' post earlier tonight (now archived), is that the damn picture is ridiculously large. Not to worry, I'll master this bloody thing yet. But I had to step away and, ahhh, knit instead. Finished up the second pair of fingerless gloves, the pair knit in the lovely Kureyon colorway. Looking forward to being able to upload a pic. Cheers.
Dateline: Mendocino County, CA -- This just in: We've received a report from our curmudgeon-in-arms in the field, Weener, who wishes to convey the following:
"I'd rather be knitting with you Purl&Hurlers than be holed up down here in a grubby hotel, studying for my Registered Geologist exam. But I've finished knitting the Noro bear from the Debbie Bliss pattern book, and all I've got left to do is sew and stuff. Have fun tomorrow without me, but not too much fun. Love, Eileen" [Editor's Note: That is actually a slight paraphrase. She's much nicer than that.]
We wish Weener all the good exam energy and rock-smarts in the world.
"I'd rather be knitting with you Purl&Hurlers than be holed up down here in a grubby hotel, studying for my Registered Geologist exam. But I've finished knitting the Noro bear from the Debbie Bliss pattern book, and all I've got left to do is sew and stuff. Have fun tomorrow without me, but not too much fun. Love, Eileen" [Editor's Note: That is actually a slight paraphrase. She's much nicer than that.]
We wish Weener all the good exam energy and rock-smarts in the world.
Ooh, ooh, ooh!! The brand-spanking new Spring issue of Knitty is here! I think they have some of the freshest designers out there, and can't wait to read it top to bottom. But I've already realized that they've got a lot of Velma in 'em - just look at the colors of all the garments! Pepto-pink, envy-green, va-voom red... a veritable Velma paradise! (I will attempt to retire the exclamation point on my keyboard now).
It's not raining (yet), I've had my coffee, there's yarn and a couple a knitting patterns (here, here and here) I won on eBay winging their way to me as we speak, and I'm happy!
I have been having pain in my right hand recently. Too much knitting? Probably. Too much mousing at work? Definitely. But knitting was definitely aggravating it. So I took Saturday off from knitting to create this here weblog, or 'blog'. What fun! I am really sinking my teeth into learning some basic HTML code, and this work-in-progress is the result. Check back often to see how it evolves. Pictures coming soon.
In the meantime, don't forget to come to the next gathering of PURL & HURL. Every Tuesday at 6:30pm at Plaza Grill on the Plaza in Arcata, a group of like-minded (read: fun-loving, cocktail-swilling, free-for-all knitters) meet up to share their current knitting projects and generally have a good time. Next meeting will be tomorrow, March 4. I'll post a follow-up after for those that couldn't make it. See you there!
I have been having pain in my right hand recently. Too much knitting? Probably. Too much mousing at work? Definitely. But knitting was definitely aggravating it. So I took Saturday off from knitting to create this here weblog, or 'blog'. What fun! I am really sinking my teeth into learning some basic HTML code, and this work-in-progress is the result. Check back often to see how it evolves. Pictures coming soon.
In the meantime, don't forget to come to the next gathering of PURL & HURL. Every Tuesday at 6:30pm at Plaza Grill on the Plaza in Arcata, a group of like-minded (read: fun-loving, cocktail-swilling, free-for-all knitters) meet up to share their current knitting projects and generally have a good time. Next meeting will be tomorrow, March 4. I'll post a follow-up after for those that couldn't make it. See you there!
Sunday, March 02, 2003
To everyone who has piped up with kudos and comments, thanks for the feedback. I'm experiencing some technical and some not-so-technical problems with this my 2nd attempt at writing code, so I hope you'll bear with me while I iron out the kinks.
I know, for example, that if you leave a comment about a specific post, you cannot see the words you've typed in. Rest assured that I can see them! Fixing that problem will most likely involve switching the hosting site, so I may just take it down for now. You can still leave me a general comment in the side bar on the left, so feel free to .
And I'm painfully aware that right now Velma's World is approximately (o.k., exactly) the dullest blog on the web. But I can't load any pictures 'til BlogSpot (my host) brings their upgrade site back online. As soon as I can, I will be plunking down a few pesos to upgrade from this free service sans pics, to their for-pay version which will host photos of my, ahem, LOVELY knit creations.
Tomorrow, expect a brief reminder with the details of this week's Purl & Hurl gathering. We're now up to 15 people, and growing. See you there!
In the meantime, check out the lovely Topsecret sweater from Knitty.com that I'll be making next, as soon as this wool I've ordered arrives. Mmm, yummy!
I know, for example, that if you leave a comment about a specific post, you cannot see the words you've typed in. Rest assured that I can see them! Fixing that problem will most likely involve switching the hosting site, so I may just take it down for now. You can still leave me a general comment in the side bar on the left, so feel free to .
And I'm painfully aware that right now Velma's World is approximately (o.k., exactly) the dullest blog on the web. But I can't load any pictures 'til BlogSpot (my host) brings their upgrade site back online. As soon as I can, I will be plunking down a few pesos to upgrade from this free service sans pics, to their for-pay version which will host photos of my, ahem, LOVELY knit creations.
Tomorrow, expect a brief reminder with the details of this week's Purl & Hurl gathering. We're now up to 15 people, and growing. See you there!
In the meantime, check out the lovely Topsecret sweater from Knitty.com that I'll be making next, as soon as this wool I've ordered arrives. Mmm, yummy!
Saturday, March 01, 2003
Lo and behold, the technology works. Typing in my newly-minted fingerless gloves, knit in acid-green Cascade Pastaza 'Lime' and pink-multi Cascade Quatro 'Peachy', my first project involving an increase. Whee! Keeps my digits toasty in the damp No. Cali pseudo-winter.
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