Amazingly Gross Cake

kitty litter Box cake,
originally uploaded by gothicbeagle.

I just found this and I am considering making it for my husbands next birthday party. I just know it will be a hit! This has to be the grosses concept in pary food that I have ever seen. WOW! Click on the pic to get the recipe.

New Plying Technique

New Plying Technique,
originally uploaded by Fiber Maiden.

So, I just wanted to let everyone know that I just invented a new hand plying technique. It is really easy and with results like this who wouldn't want to do it. I know you are just itching to find out how you can impliment it on your handspun fibers. You simple wrap the single ply around your hand slowly tightening it as you go, so that once you have got about 3/4ths of the single on your hand that it is turning blue. If you hand isn't blue you aren't doing it right. Thats just an insiders tip I like to pass along to you my dear readers. You'll thank me later I promise. Then after you hand is mostly blue you start to panic and this is the key. Without the panic you are just doing that boring old ply that you are used to. In you panic state you freak out and start ripping the yarn of of your hand. If you have done the first step right the yarn should be so tight at this point that there is no possible way to get it off without cutting it. So, with your one good hand freak out and run around the house looking for scissors. If you really want to get into it. You could start screaming or as someone who knows nothing about fiber or yarn to help you get it off. The look on their face will be priceless. After you find the scissors and have properly freaked out. Cut slits in various parts of the " yarn cuff" as I like to call it. Trying to spare as much as you can for the finally. After you have it all off wad it up in a ball, and cry. Tears or no tears it really doesn't matter. It will not change the end result. Then take pictures of it and send them to me so I can see your handy work. Who ever has the biggest pile of USELESS crap wins. Bonus points for most expensive fiber used. I am putting mine in a place of honor in my house so that I never try another plying method again. Learning new things is for suckers!

The way it goes

New Baby Diaper Cover,
originally uploaded by Fiber Maiden.

Alot has been going on lately! I have had plenty to say and no time to say it, so, now that I am up a 5 in the morning and there is no one around I guess I can chat it up. I started my job back, yes, my boss has changed his attitude toward the pregos. Apparently he has seen the light after having two horrible replacements that where not up to snuff. Within a week I had my Amex and keys back and with some added bonuses that I had him agree to. Like bringing my daughter to work, and not having to deal with customers so that I can focus on the back of the house work that I enjoy so much. It really is a win win situation. Yeah!
My poor little dog has been sick as a dog for the last week, but I really think he is doing alot better now. Not completely better, but much better than last week for sure. The scary thing is I have no idea why he is sick. The best I can figure is that he ate something he shouldn't have and then stopped eating and drinking for a couple of days. He looked so bad then. Without having any hair to hide his skin and bones he really just looked like a skeleton.
I found a wonderful birthing center where I can have the water birth of my dreams. It is an amazing facility that is more like a day spa. I just love it there. Unfortunatly it is about 45 min from my house, so, it is one heak of a drive, but totally worth it! Yesterday we found out what the sex of the baby was. ITS A BOY! Yeah! Yeah! Yeah! Anyone that knows me knows I love my daughter sooooooooooooooo much, but I have always wanted to have a whole bunch of boys. So, I won't have a whole bunch of them, but just one, and I am so so so so so very very very happy. I want him to be my grandfather, middle brother, and husband all rolled into one. His name is going to be Britian Browning. Doesn't that just sound like a great name. Both of them are family names. I just couldn't be more excited to meet him.
Well, I hope everyone is doing okay out there! Have a great week! Yeah!

What the Cluck

cascade 220,
originally uploaded by Fiber Maiden.

So, I have a small passion for vintage linens and I saw this shade of cascade 220 that matches my favorite table cloth. See, see how it matches the horse shoes. Yes, I am crazy, crazy enough to rationalize buying yarn to match my table cloth. That my be the prego brain talking. It has been in overdrive lately. Lets see last weekend I went to Whole Foods to buy the things I would need to make a burritoe. I left with 200$ worth of groceries including dog food and bagles. No I am not crazy, I am apparently just really hungry and so is my dog! The other day I had to stop at a Chick Fillet chain the other day to puke my guts up in a dignified manner. By that I mean on my hands and knees in a public restroom with a screaming four year old girl crawling on my back begging for food and to play in the playground. I honestly felt that at that moment I hit an all time low. Then I back up into a lady who was parked behind my car. I didn't see her there. Don't worry we are fine, but I suggest not parking behind me. I told the poor lady that I was really sorry, but I am pregnant. She said, and I quote," Oh, you poor dear, don't worry about it, god bless your little heart!" I hear that. To soothe my nerves I went to the yarn shop to find buttons for my supper cute New Baby Ribby Wraps. I spent 50$ on yarn, needles, and wool wash. I didn't even look at buttons people. All whilest my most darling child ran like a banshee through the shop screaming and throwing yarn into the walkways. I had a full on melt down in the store. In front of everyone! Then explained to everyone that I was pregnant and they all knodded and smiled. Remember I am not crazy, but Pregnant!

Fall is Here Fall is Here

Tatianna's Garden,
originally uploaded by Fiber Maiden.

Hello, all my little Noonoos in cyber land. It is Fall! I have proof. Not only have we had the most amazing weather, but we also went to the Ren Fest. Yeah! Tuesday we went to homeschooling day at the Texas Ren Fest. Which is one of the oldest and largest of its kind in the US. It was wonderful. It was high of 70 and sunshine all day. We had spent all Sunday making this wonderful costume for Miss Fae. Brandon spent most of the day making her "Wings" which where basically an arrangement of autum flowers and leaves and feathers on her back. They are amazing. I will put another pic up with more detail. He also made her a crown of flowers and leaves, and I had sewn her costume using organic jersey and cheese cloth. With brown organic homespun wool yarn whip stitched and blanket stitched seems around the edges. She was a truelly magical autum fairy, and everyone there knew it. I don't think she has ever had so much attention paid to her. Everyone wanted to take pictures of her and I think Brandon may have sold a couple of people on buying wings from him. Even the participants where impressed, and god know they have seen some suckie fairies. They even wanted pictures with her. Then when we were walking around she found a fairy sleeping in an cathedral of flowers and vines. They had a long interaction with lots of fairy speak. I think Miss Fae thinks she really met a living fairy. The fairy gave her an acorn that is now her favorite thing in the whole world. We are going to have to go back before it closes in November because we just had the best time ever. We couldn't have asked for a better day. Even the weather co-operated. The pictures all turned out amazing too! Halloween is right around the corner and I know what Miss Fae is going to be.

It's my birthday and I can be an indecisive Bitch if I want to!

Birthday Malabrigo,
originally uploaded by Fiber Maiden.

So, yesterday was my 29th birthday which means my husband spent way to much money on me. First we shipped the sprite to my mother house. Where she will stay up late and eat to much chocolate, and have candy for breakfast. Yeah for her! Then after sleeping in exactly 24 minutes we spent the early morning crafting and surfing the interweb (as my mother likes to call it). Then we went to a nice cafe we have never been to before. To have coffee and pastries which were excellent. Then my husband with money in hand willingly took me to a yarn store. He had full expectations to spend 150 dollars or more on my purchases. He is mine and you can not have him! So, we spent a couple of hours looking at yarn and books and talking with the girls at the shop. It was wonderful. He at no point cried or ran screaming out of the store. He was great! I scored some needles and yarn I need for Xmahanaquanzica projects, and some Malabrigo that I will be making the Clapoti out of. After the yarn shop we went to my favorite Sushi restraunt for lunch with a good friend, and went to see a movie. (Don't worry I didn't eat any raw fish) I wanted to see Across the Universe, but it wasn't playing when we went to the theater, so, we saw 30 Days of Night instead. It was pretty good. I love modern horror movies, especially zombie movies. This movie was a departure from typical vampire movies. The vampires where very animalistic and somewhat un intelligent. The setting and action was different and there was a nice twist at the end. I still think 28 Days Later and 28 Weeks Later and still the best horror movies ever made. After the movie we said good by to our friend and picked up Pee Pod and went home. Where I began working on all of my new project. Then right before I went to bed I had a 50$ Rootbeer Float which is a real treat. It is made from Stone Field Farms Organic Vanilla Ice Cream which is hands down the best icecream in the world. It give Gelato a run for its money. Then you add Vergils Rootbeer which is a five time world beverage winning drink. It is a super gourmet rootbeer with hints of vanilla and anese. It alone is pretty amazing, but with their powers combined they make an outstanding float. Try it you will thank me! All in all I had an amazing day, and my husband made me love him just a little more because he was so nice and just let me do whatever I wanted and never complained. Not even a little. Thanks Honey!

Take that you Monkey Debil

Monkey Sock Starter,
originally uploaded by Fiber Maiden.

So, I ripped the hell out of my half money sock today. I hate it and not because I don't like the yarn or anything else weak like that. I hate knitting fancy socks. I don't even wear socks that much much less fancy ones. Fancy socks suck! I am not even close to a fancy sock girl. I am a ribbed toe up girl all the way, and there is nothing wrong with that. I tried to branch out, but I hate the branch. I like the trunk and that is where I am going to stay. I plan on using the same yarn to make the toe up ribby socks that I last make from IK. Now that the Debil Monkey socks are off of my needles I can focus on my XmasHanuQuansica gifts. I cast on the cigar gloves for my husband who hates knitted presents, but loves wearing gloves and smoking cigars. So, I thought it was a good match, and if he doesn't like them I will shamelessly regift them to a friend who will. So, suck it! I also finished the wrap of doom. Which ended up being a supper easy knit and I plan on making more once I square away some buttons that I like. I think they will make very good cloth diaper covers and they are oh so soft and old fashion looking. They are the cutest butt sweaters I have ever seen. I just recieved in the mail four more sublime stitch patterns. Including: Under the sea ( 4 IV), China town ( 4NB), Spaced Out (4ME), and Craftopia (4Me and my Bitches). They are OH so cute and I can not wait to stitch their beauty into all of my unembriodered linens, and anything else I can fit in a hoop. I am not kidding try me! So, I have been super busy and have lots of stuff to be doing instead of sitting here talking to myself, so, piss off. I mean have a nice day!

Bitch

Wrap Wrap Wrap

Little Turtle Knits Wrap Cover II,
originally uploaded by Fiber Maiden.

I took very detailed stock of my cloth diaper stash this last week( or what is left of it I JUST KNOW I HAD MORE) and relized I am short alot of NB covers. I have been whipping up these wraps style diaper covers from Little Turtle Knits. I wanted to make them for my first baby, but I just never got around to it. So, I am starting early. I am not a very fast knitter. I am a much faster crocheter. I think it is just the nature of crochet verses knitting, but these babies are quick. You can knit one up in a couple of hours. Maybe less if you are faster than me. Which you are! I can tell! I also have managed to completely stream line the homeschooling. With some major additions of class room materials. For Dear Ole Mom, who was told to throw away anything that looked like it was from elementary school out. This is what our tax dollars pay for folks! Bad for tax payers good for family members of public school teachers. At least it isn't in a trash can somewhere! I am quickly rounding the corner on becoming mother of the year, so, watch your back Mother of the year 2006 I got your number right here and I made you cupcakes for your swift departure! See Ya!

Oh Fall

Zomberina,
originally uploaded by Fiber Maiden.

Well, now that I am at home twenty four seven I have an unsual amount of extra time on my hands. My house is lookin good. I even have cleaned the stuff I don't clean like behind the jars on my counter. You know what I am talking about. Don't deny it, it just makes it hurt worse later! I have spun, knitted, crocheted, and crafted my mind into a blur. I am almost done with that ballet cardi, and I will never be done with those monkey socks. I have spent alot of time playing sims. For some reason cleaning their houses and raising thier children are way more entertaining then doing it in real life. It is really stupid if you think about it, and I do.
Halloween is around the corner, so, there is are tons of fun homeschooling and decorating things to do. My daughter was a Zomberina last Halloween, half zombie, half ballerina, all scary. See Picture. It was her idea, I swear. She was terrifing in all of her glory.This year she wants to go as the same thing, but I am encouraging her to branch out. She wants to be a zombie butterfly! Zomberfly! Oh, well, she will scare the pants off of all the other kids in there Handy Mandy/ Dora costumes.
We will be attending the Texas Ren Fest this year. It will be my daughters first time. Which is way exciting. I have her fairy costume ready to go. The turkey legs are calling to me already. Oh, turkey legs. Fall will be busy and lead into winter and holidays, or as I call it Pumpkin pie season!

In my Fortress of Solitude

Momma Joe and Ivy,
originally uploaded by Fiber Maiden.

In my Fortress of Solitude I watched the sun rise and set, I ate pancakes and marshmellows, I took 50 naps, 1 shower, I swam, I cried, I spun, I knitted alot, and after it all I found me again. I am the luckiest person in the world to have such a wonderful place to go to anytime I need to. I love my grandparents so much! There home is my center, and their love is my milk. I hope that I never forget who I am and what is important to me, but when I do, I know where to find it again. Sometimes you need to move slower and gather yourself. Sometimes you need to knit on a front porch and drink sweet tea untill your legs fall asleep. You need to watch bugs and have a bon fire to love life again.
On the knitting front I am almost done with PROJECT 2007 amazing. I might actually have it finished before I had planned. WHAT! No I am not crazy it really might be done early! SHUTUP! I know! Don't touch me I am on fire! I am shopping new projects right now on ravelry and it looks like it might be some new baby stuff.
On the baby front I am doing fine, the baby is fine, I am actually not getting sick right now, so, I am doing great! But I won't hold my breath! I have actually only gained 11 lbs which for me is amazing. At this point with my daughter I was 30lbs heavier. Any the who baby good, me good, good, good! Shut up and Knit!

When it is over it is over

Monkey Sock Starter,
originally uploaded by Fiber Maiden.

So, I have been in a bit of a tail spin these last weeks. This prego thing is proving to be a bit harder this time around. When I am not being sick I am almost being sick or starving. Everything makes me cry and I quit my job. Basiclly ever since I told my boss that I was prego he has treated me badly. Including taking away hours, my keys to the shop, and my Amex card. So, when I got the point that he doesn't want me around anymore I gave in a months notice. At which time he asked me to consider leaving sooner because I was a real bummer to be around. WOW! I wish I could have thrown up right there on his desk, but instead I cried like a baby and gathered my things off of my desk and walked. I know this will put me and my family in some serious finacial stress, so, I am dreaming up creative ways to make extra money. Especially now that we have an extra car payment and another baby on the way. I have always prided myself on my inner strength and ability to bounce back, but I just don't have the energy for that right now. I have decided to go to the only place that I find strength when the world has stomped me. The ranch house ie my grandparents house. There in my fortress of solitude I can knit, spin, and crochet while drinking crazy amounts of sweet tea and eating things deep fried and covered in gravy. There I will think nothing about bad bosses and mounting bills and I will become me again. Rather than the blubbering idiot I have been reduced to these last few weeks. I mean when it is over it's over. There is just no use crying about it.

Bummin me out

Monkey Sock Starter,
originally uploaded by Fiber Maiden.

So, I had the best two weeks ever and now I guess I am bottoming out. My boss didn't take the news very well and he has already cut my hours and responcibities. Which I am pretty sure is illegal, but I would bet it would be hard to go to court on. He is hurt I get it. I am the second manager in a year to get pregnant, but I didn't do it to harm him and I shouldn't be punished for it. In my fragile state I went to my husband for comfort and he told me to quit. Which just made me cry. He doesn't get it, I know he sees it as a simple solution, but I loved my job, and the money. I would have to go on a huge yarn budget. Now, I am really going to cry. On top of all of this my brand new car ( pics coming soon) has been in the shop the last five days. That would be five out of the eleven days I have owned it. I just got it back today, and everything is fixed. It was all just little stuff, but they did each thing one day at a time apparently. Then in my hour of need when I went to my fiber for comfort everything went wrong. I must have messed up more than I acomplished. Oh the well! My wonder week was bound to end, it is just bumming me out. I finished that damn sash on PROJECT 2007 which actually might be done in time to wear it for the cold season. Which for me is nothing short of a miracle. This is the monkey sock that I am working on with Pigeon Roof Studio. I am loving this pattern and the yarn, but it is taking forever because I am not spending enough time on it. This is my bag project and I hardly wait around anywhere anymore, but I am seeing alot of midwife appointments in the near future. So, fear not these socks will be done in time for me to wear them to the birth of my second child. I was thinking about giving them to my grandmother, but everyone on agrees if I gave her these socks she will " save them" for a special occasion. Which means she will never wear them. They will be her "Fancy" socks and she is not a fancy girl at all. She might wear them once when we " go to town" together, but after that they will not see the light of day. I love my grandma so very very very much and I would love to give her socks, but everyone is right I need to give her everyday sock, not fancy ones. If I made her some plain rib socks she would wear them more. So, those will be next on my cue. Till then! And hey, thanks you so much for all of those comments on my last post. Sometimes I feel like I am talking to a brick wall, but when it matters, I am really with good friends! You guys kick asses!

Another One?

Ivy and Chris,
originally uploaded by Fiber Maiden.

So, I just found out like two hours ago. I am having another baby. Wow, what a mind blower. I mean I know that I have had a baby before, but I am so excited, and not nearly as terrified as last time, and much more relaxed about it. Yeah! I was so freaked out last time that I didn't knit or sew anything other than maternity clothes. Not this time I am not having another one after this, so, I am going to make every cute baby thing I can find. If anyone has any suggestions let me know. Also, in this last week I got a new car, which I love love love, and I am on Ravelry. Oh, yeah, Oh, yeah, Oh, yeah! This is like the best two weeks every!

Stashapalloza

Stashapalloza,
originally uploaded by Fiber Maiden.

So, it is offical I am all stashed up on yarn. This is the whole thing and it is a monster when you get it all together. Mostly these are just random oddballs, but there is a good stock pile of organic cotton and wool in there too. It seems I have a thing for brown, but the deal is I don't really like brown. That is why there is so much of it in my stash. I DONT END UP USING IT. I love color, but not texture too much. Not very much novelty yarn in here either. I just don't by it. Also, if you will notice there isn't even one skein of sock yarn in there. NOT ONE! I do knit socks, but I have never gotten into it like everyone else has. I like making them, but I buy my yarn for a pair at a time. You will also notice that there is a small section of fiber in the upper right hand side, in front of that are my first two balls of yarn. They have probably about 50 yards each of the skinniest and thickest yarns known to man. What the hell am I suppost to make out of that. I know I am not as bad as many other. Don't worry I won't mention your names in public! But for me it is alot. Stash burning and busting aside I just didn't know what I had. Now that I do, what do I do with it all? The one skeiners are going to become presents for loved ones this year. Hats & scarves. I would love to make a sweater out of the organic wool, but I am just shy of having enough. Plenty of organic cotton, but it is a 10/5/2 which basically means it is heavy and relatively thick. I made a sweater out of it and it weighs about 2 pounds. So, I am at a loss for that. The malanbrigo is being made into a sweater, so, no problem there. That baby alpaca in the back has got to go. I know that someone wants it bad, and that person is not me. You can have it by the way, no questions asked. I will keep the vintage yarn. It has been in my family for years. The recycled sweater yarn can be reused into a grocery tote. What in the hell do you knit with Chenille that isn't a baby blanket. I never find patterns for it. If you have ideas or know of someone who might send them an SOS for me. That about covers it with the exception of the eyelash yarns that I will keep forever because I paid to much for it. Ladies and Gentlemen STASHAPALLOZA 2007!

White Linen Night

Just Ray,
originally uploaded by Fiber Maiden.

We were out in rare form last night supporting the local arts. Which is a cause near and dear to our hearts. As my husband is an artist, and because it is a personal passion of mine to harbor talent and cheerish it. This is Ray, our friend and an amazing artist. He had a show at the event and it was great. Just wish more people had stayed home so I could have enjoyed it a little more, but you can't complain about doing too much business. Right! All the same it was an amazing turn out and I know alot of artists got good exposure. It was nice to be out.
We spent today interviewing people for our rescue dog. Which went better than expected. I only wish I had more dogs to dish out. NOT REALLY. Yes, we have decided not to keep him after all. We are a one dog home and there is nothing wrong with that. I want the dog to have the same amount of love and attention as my dog, and I am not able to do it myself. I just have too much on my plate. There is honer in knowing your limits. Even if it sounds wimpy. It is going to be very hard to let him go, but when we do he will be going to a very good home.
We also saw the Harry Potter movie which I didn't want to see, because I haven't read up to that book yet, and I didn't want to spoil it, but I did anyway. Oh, well. I know to most of you that is crazy that I haven't read every book to date, but I am busy, and reading a book is the last thing on my list every time. There just isn't enough time in a day to do it. I literally have to book reading time with myself. So, I will just have to book more time I guess. Oh WELL! If I have too!

What ya doin BUB?

Project 2007 7/27/07,
originally uploaded by Fiber Maiden.

So, I do tie my self down with more than one big project at a time. Mosty because I don't have enough time. I know that I can finish ten small projects in the time it takes me to make one big one. I think that is pretty true for everyone though. My problem is that I don't like doing little projects. With the execption of the Argosy scarf I really don't like to knit scarves. I haven't ever really been bitten by the sock bug. I like sock knitting, but I have a serious case of second sock syndrome. SSS. So, I should learn to do the two socks on two circs. The thought of having all of those floppy needles and two balls of yarn kinda makes me sick to my stomache with little itchy parts. Just sounds like a nightmare waiting to happen. What do you do? How do you knit them, and what little projects do you covet? I just need to know, because I can put off this big one for weeks with a good little project.

Another week bites the dust

Sushi Embroidery,
originally uploaded by Fiber Maiden.

So, hell week at work is at a close, and only half of a hell week lay ahead, and then I can get back to more important things like knitting. In loo of knitting this week I also started another project. Dum Dum Dum ....... Embroidery. Yes, people I can do it all I am a regular wiz at just about anything fiber. I got some patterns in from sublime stitches at www.sublimestitching.com. I have never bought her patterns before, because I usually make my own. In the spirit of the post that I made a while back about time managment I am letting her do the work for me. Hey, I can do it all, but I don't have to. I like the patterns. They are a little simple and plain, and there are alot of things that I plan on adding, but they are the best patterns on the market for the modern embroiderer. If that is even a word. I really like embroidery it is cheap, dirt cheap, easy, imaginative, small (it travels just as well as knitting), and relaxing. I find it to be even more relaxing than knitting, but that probably is because I have been embroidering longer than knitting. There are thousands of stitches just like knitting, and there are lots of different colors and patterns. Typically you will see embroidery on tea towels, pillow cases, and hankies, but I have seen alot of other kind of embroidery including on clothing and art. Jenny Hart the creator and owner of Sublime Stiches is an artist in her own right. You can find her art at www.jennyhart.net she is very talented. I have never done anthing on her scale, but I do enjoy the detail work just like I see in her art. If you have never embroidered give it a try. You might find another fiber obsession you can't live without.

Work is a 4 letter word

Argosy Lives,
originally uploaded by Fiber Maiden.

It is a word most cursed in my home. Dishes go unwashed, clean laundry piles up in the closet, and by the bed, and infront of the dryer. Food is being eaten out of boxes and bags. Yes, Mommy is working a little to much at work lately and it shows. I am just afraid there is no end. I feel like all I do lately is work, and work and work. There is no end! We are temporaily shorthanded at work and everyone is taking vacations, so, work has become a bane to my family. I actually knit a couple of stitches last night and fell asleep. Like an old man watching dateline. I was out in no time flat. My knitting didn't even stand a chance. I am looking forward to relief from this schedule from hell. If only it was over sooner. No more talky talk must knit, and maybe I can take a nap between stitches.

Knittingitus

Malabrigo,
originally uploaded by Fiber Maiden.

So, I have been so busy with the new dog that I have done little to no knitting, crocheting, or spinning in the last week or so. I need to start practicing so serious time managment. I think time managment could benifit alot of knitters out there. More often than not I find that fiber hobbiests are all or nothing. Which is just a reflection of poor managment. Most artist are poor managers. In my previous business I found that artists never valued thier work appropriatly. Most of the time totally under valuing their talents, materials, and efforts. I think it is high time we start valuing our efforts in a manner that a good manager would. You should set aside time weekly to work on your projects. If you worked for you inc and you didn't do your work you would fire you, wouldn't you. If you worked for you inc and you undersold your work, you would fire you too. I know that with a little bit of pre planning, time managment, and organization. We can make this thing work. After all it isn't just knitting anymore. It is the time we can spending doing something we truelly love, and have a natural gift to do. Don't we deserve to manage it like it was a billion dollar asset! I think so!

Who is that doggie in the window?

Rosco That Dog,
originally uploaded by Fiber Maiden.

So, it has only been a couple of days and we have already caved. The dog is going to stay with us. My husbands new dog does not have a name yet. So, I am taking suggestions. He is young, mostly hairless, and very energetic. Our other dog's name is Chuy, so, that might give you some ideas. Let me know if you have a good one, and we will consider it. I have been on skype alot lately almost constantly. There are alot of lovely knitters over there. Most of them are on Ravelry already so alot of the chatter is about that. I am sitting behind 3759 people as of now and it looks like they are adding about two to three hundred people a day. At that rate I won't have anything to contribute to the chat until next month. By that time something else will be the happening thing and I will be a month behind that. Oh, well, at least I get to the party even if I am not the first to be invited.

Rosco The Rescue

Rosco The Rescue,
originally uploaded by Fiber Maiden.

In the late hours last night straight out of SnB I rescued this Hairy Hairless Chinese Crested. He is just a gem. It is amazing to me how increadibly heartless people can be to animals. These are one of the rarest and most expensive dog breeds in the world and someone saw fit to abuse it. An animal is total dependant on its person or people to provide a health enviornment and teach it right from wrong. Every living thing is entitled to love and happiness. I am currently interviewing people to get him into a loving home. I would keep him. My Hubby even said I could People. Which is totally crazy! But he is young and he needs to be in a home with a very active family. My crested is old and tired and that works for us. If you know anyone in the Greater Houston Area that is interested in Rescuing a wonderful dog have them email me. There is no charge for him. He just needs a forever home.

No Crochet You

No Crochet You,
originally uploaded by rrhood78.

I relized that I have never written about crochet. Yes I dabble in the dark arts. I think alot of fiber artists make a big to do about being one over the other. Mostly knitters sad to say, are consumed by the thought that knitting is some how better. I think that is crap! There is no logical that making a swatch of fabric with a hook is some how less than making a swatch out of two sticks. Of course there are advantages to both and they are slightly different from each other in style. Crochet makes a heavier fabric and uses more yarn, but anyone who does both will tell you that they can crochet a hat in less than an hour and most hat patterns can not be knit in that time. It is supper fast and easy to do while watching or ready. I do all of my charity items and most of my children's items in crochet. Crochet is playful in the way knitting is sophisticated looking.
I first learned how to crochet when I was very young ( four or five). I was tought by my grandmother. Who has crocheted everyday for most of her life. It is something that to this day we share and talk about on a regular basis. It is our bond and it was my glimps into the fiber world. I learned to make crocheted lace when I was a teenager, and still have that pattern book to refer back to.
I find that being able to do both, and having the tools to do both is helpful in most of my fiber adventures. I have yet to do a finished garment completely in crochet due to the heavyness of its fabric, but I do most of my hats and scarves in crochet for the same reason. I also do alot of finishing touches and embelishments on my knitted garments.
Crochet is in some way my past, but recently it has started feeling like my future too. The crochet community is growning and changing and I can feel it happening. I hear it and see it all around me. So, I am a Hooker and I am proud of it!

Happy Fourth Get A Mop

Our Damage,
originally uploaded by rrhood78.

So, in loo of cool fire works, hot dogs, live music, and good family and friends visiting untill early morning hours. We cleaned up flood damage, and nursed emotionally wounded family members. Our fourth of July celebrations rival that of any other holiday during the year. It is easily said that fourth of July is the biggest and most amazing celebration all year in our family. With annual attendance at or above fifty people steady for the last twenty years. When we where kids we would sell tickets and put on a fourth inspired talent show with all of my cousins. When we were young we would pop a few crackers, do some romain candles, and a sparkler or two, but in the last 15 years the piro has grown to a full on professional production. Most due to the advancing technology in piro, but also due to our sheer buying power. We easily by thousands of dollars worth of piro to make hour long amazing displays. Now instead of lip sinking to old county tunes from a sterio, we have live bands. It is amazing how something like that can grow into a monster of an event. Well, none of that happened this year. In fact only five or so people even showed up. After two weeks of constant and heavy rain the lake house was flooded. All in all about five feet of water came into the house, and we lost everything. Every bed, appliance, and piece of furniture is ruined. Everything will be replaced eventually, but it was devistating cleaning all of the silt, mud, fish ( I am not joking really real dead fish), and debri out of the house. We spent fourth ripping out dry wall and floor boards. Instead of telling old stories and roasting marshmellows. It is a fourth like this that will make all from now on a little sweeter, and a fourth never to forget! Needless to say, I did little to no knitting, and spent my entire vacation working, so, we are good an tired and going back to work tommorow.

Project 2007

Project 2007,
originally uploaded by rrhood78.

So, here it is well into the Summer the 2007 project has begun. Just so that you know the last time I did a big project it took over two years to do, and had to be started from scratch over a dozen times. My needles where eaten by dogs atleast two times, but I think it was closer to four. My yarn was eaten by dogs. None of these dogs where mine, so, it wasn't my fault. The Never Never sweater as it is known was pulled out involuntarily a couple of times by infants and small children. I swear that this will not happen to this project. I promise to stand by my project and protect it from small mammals at all times. I will keep it in a zipper bag protected from all matters of weather. I promise to take pictures of it and listen to lots of podcast while knitting it. It will not fall by the way, it will be my new best friend, and lover. Project 2007 I will honor and obey you! This I promise!

Check out my Slide Show!

Finished Socks

Finished Penis Socks,
originally uploaded by rrhood78.

So, here are those toe up socks from inteweave spring 2007 mag. Love this pattern it is really easy and I picked up a couple of new skills. That eastern cast on is just right for no bunch at the toe. I could have picked up my stitches a little tighter, and I will pick up some stitches in the heel pattern to prevent holes. Lots of holes from forming, but other than that I like it. I am also knitting my daughter a matching pair from the left over yarn. She has been wearing mine around wanting some for herself. So, I am on to another pair. After hers I will be knitting pairs for my mother, grandmother, and husband for x mas. These will be my first xmas knitting projects. Really untill this year I just haven't been so in love with knitting. I am not sure what changed. I have always knit and crocheted, but this year it has just bit me. I have two projects going at once, I am doing KAL online, I am reading and listening to everything I can about knitting, I am knit crazy this year. I think the things I have noticed is I feel that others are more interested in my knitting ( maybe because it has improved alot more over the last year or so), and I don't feel like my knitting is disconnecting me from my life, but making it better. Before, I felt guilty about knitting. Like I was cheating on my daughter and partner. Now, I don't have any guilt, just joy!

The Return of Argosy

The Return of Argosy,
originally uploaded by rrhood78.

This is the scarf that I have been knitting. I am knitting it with Prism's Rio in 100% Rayon on number 6 needles. It has a tendancy to stick and slip at the most in opertune times, but that is rayon. I don't have any bright ideas that might change that. On the other hand I was out of wax paper and needed a good waxing on my needles. I used natural bees wax birthday candles. It worked like a dream. I am keeping some in my knitting notions case from now on. You should try it in a pinch it works. I love this pattern it is fun and entertaining to work and just moves along at a quick pace. I feel that it looks like a much more complicated scarf and pattern than it really is. I also should mention that this is my first attempt at lace. I haven't ever challenged myself with my knitting, and I wish I had tried years ago. I would be in a whole new knitting place by now. I am branching out and loving it. Also, the Argosy KAL is so much fun. Everyone is really supportive and the designer is on hand to answer questions from time to time. I found this pattern on a latter knitty issue online. Give it a try, you will thank me!

Spinning around and around

Ashford Spindle,
originally uploaded by rrhood78.

So, here is what is on my spindle! I am using the Zitron's pencil roving in 100% Merino. It is really yummy to spin, and I am enjoying it alot. It is really nice to just draft out the days problems when I get home. At some point it is just me and the fiber stuck in the drafting dance together. Not think about a single other thing than, "must make beautiful yarn!"

Hi Hoe

josie handspun,
originally uploaded by feralfeminine.

I have to go to the work of doomy doom doom doom today, a saturday! I wish I could stay here all day and knit! Oh, the well!

Look Ma

Knitting in bed,
originally uploaded by rrhood78.

I am teaching my daughter how to knit and crochet. It is really cute. She is so loving it, and she says that she is going to make a skirt, but I think she means a scarf. She is actually doing it herself in this picture.

Designer Contest

Dyeing Up a Storm,
originally uploaded by Sock-a-holic.

I am looking for five to ten relativelly unknow indie and punk knit and crochet wear designers. The winners with be published in a book to promote their design work.
Sumbitions must be origional designs, and all skill levels are encouraged!

For more information please email to rrhood78@yahoo.com

FIBER ARTISTS

Diablo Dog,
originally uploaded by rrhood78.

I am looking for the best newest fiber artist. If you spin yarn, dye yarn, dye roving, make art yarn. Then let me see your stuff. I want to see small batch indie art fiber, no mass produced stuff here!

Beauty of Spring

Frangapanie,
originally uploaded by rrhood78.

I love these flowers. They are so beautiful! We have so many of them this year. We will be going to the beach again today. I finished one of the penis socks. I cast on another never never sweater in green tea and heavy cream. I want to learn to do lace, but the patterns and charts look really hard and I don't think I am doing it right. I guess I will have to figure it out. Anythe who talk to ya later.

Sick as a dog

The birds the birds,
originally uploaded by rrhood78.

So, I am sick as a dog. It has been one sickness after another, but the bonus is that I get lots of knitting time and not to much is expected of me. That sock should be finished by today and then I can do the other one to finish the pair. I think I am going to make chuy another sweater for winter and start working on a sweater for myself. I might redo the cable shell from last year and make it longer so that I don't show off my belly button too much. Modesty is an excellent quality in a knitter, it just takes longer to achieve. Ohthewell!

Bloggidy Blog Blog Blog

DICK,
originally uploaded by rrhood78.

So, I was thinking bloging is not like writting in a journal. It is like screaming down a hole. You know someone might hear you, but you are not expecting for anyone to talk back. Since I don't derive much fun screaming I would like this blog to be more interactive with other bloggers. I am thinking about running a contest or something like that to get people talking. If you have any suggestions let me know. We can think of something we are smart people.....right!

knitting at the beach

knitting at the beach,
originally uploaded by rrhood78.

Just like was not suppost to I did. If that makes sense. I just knit it for a little while. Practly no one saw, and no body died. That is all that matters right.

Going to the Beach

Lost in the copier,
originally uploaded by rrhood78.

Well, we are going to the beach today and the age old debate in our house has reared its ugly head again. To knit or not to knit. My better half doesn't want me to be distracted while at the beach. Where I should be constantly watching my child. I think he is a little scared of the open water and our child together. Which is understandable, but I might like to knit a bit too. It is my day at the beach too! So, I will knit in the car on the way there and not at the beach. That is the compromise. Right! Anythewho, I will take lots of pictures to share with everyone and maybe get some knitting in! Off to the beach we go!

Specimen 409

Specimen 409,
originally uploaded by rrhood78.

An Ode to Chuy! Oh, Chuy, my dearest darling dog. You are as cuddly as a a lizard. Your breath smells like dead sea turtles and your nails remind me of Nicodemus. Your ears look and feel like bat wings and I love your mullet. You sleep all day and eat every thing in sight. I love you Chuy! You might be ugly, but to me you are alright!

Penis Sock

Penis Sock,
originally uploaded by rrhood78.

This is my penis sock. Or at least that is what it looks like. This will actually be the first sock of rage that I have knitted for myself. Not for my penis. I actually like it, now I just have to finish it and then knit another one in time to wear it this winter. The game is on!

So it has begun

Punk Rock Girl,
originally uploaded by rrhood78.

I am a little of everything exept totaly sain. I love the odd and seek out the oddities. I am probably the most hostel knitter on the planet. I know it is suppost to be soothing, but I can burn a whole in steele with my hate while meditating. I forgot how to relax in the third grade. Other than that I am a delightfully happy strange girl. This is my child kind. She rocks, it is so hard to keep them out of the mosh pit at this age! KIDS!