That's the sound of me jumping up and down!!!!
Do you remember back in the day, oh a couple of months ago I wrote an apron knitting pattern out of Crystal Palace Cotton Chenille?
Well, they've taken the pattern and posted it for free on their website.
Wooo hooo!
For other designs check out knitluck.
This has been a good day!
Grenadine Girl
Wednesday, March 21, 2007
The Pros of Lace Knitting (As Opposed to the Cons)
The Pros of Lace Knitting #1
knitting with itty bitty lace weight yarn makes knitting sock yarn seem like heavy worsted weight and boy do they knit up faster!
The good news is that we have passed the set up rows and have made it to row 13 of chart one. Thanks to Izzy for clarifying things for me.
Tonight: I'm still working on the Sea Sock design tentitively called the "lifesaver sock". I have to get to the heel even though I'd rather be knitting the hood on the Central Park Hoodie.
GG
knitting with itty bitty lace weight yarn makes knitting sock yarn seem like heavy worsted weight and boy do they knit up faster!
The good news is that we have passed the set up rows and have made it to row 13 of chart one. Thanks to Izzy for clarifying things for me.
Tonight: I'm still working on the Sea Sock design tentitively called the "lifesaver sock". I have to get to the heel even though I'd rather be knitting the hood on the Central Park Hoodie.
GG
Sunday, March 18, 2007
Flight delayed: Icarus is grounded
Alright I tried casting on again, this time with a size 2 addi turbo and we still fubarred it at row seven. There's something about those markers.
I'm going to have to resort to a lifeline, because I'm really sick of doing those first set up rows.
However I am liking the look of the work on the size 2 much better. We will try again. And try and try and try until we get it right.
I'm suddenly in awe of Knitabulous, one my favorite knitbloggers, who lives where I want to retire in Australia and who regularly pumps out these incredible laces.
And to answer a question about cabling without needles, I haven't tried it. There's something about having a cable needle hanging out of my mouth while I'm knitting that makes me feel like I'm really working hard.
Only a few hours left of uninterrupted knitting.
GG
I'm going to have to resort to a lifeline, because I'm really sick of doing those first set up rows.
However I am liking the look of the work on the size 2 much better. We will try again. And try and try and try until we get it right.
I'm suddenly in awe of Knitabulous, one my favorite knitbloggers, who lives where I want to retire in Australia and who regularly pumps out these incredible laces.
And to answer a question about cabling without needles, I haven't tried it. There's something about having a cable needle hanging out of my mouth while I'm knitting that makes me feel like I'm really working hard.
Only a few hours left of uninterrupted knitting.
GG
The Tough Decisions
It's Sunday morning and today we're faced with a riveting decision.
I've had my brekkie, my cuppa tea, did a little knitting.
But should I visit the local yarn shop? I could just stay here at my parents' house and continue knitting, or I could meander over to Creative Hands to check out their new location...
oh decisions, decisions.
Lord knows that I don't actually need any yarn, but I did leave my cable needle at home. We've been making do with a tapestry needle and we only have to cable once every ten rows, but you know. It's really important to have the right tools for the job. At least that's what I've been telling myself.
And I did try to cast on for Icarus last night. Got through the set up rows only to foul up exponentially on row 7 of Chart 1. I'm not understanding how the stitch markers are supposed to work with the decreases. Anyway I had to frog the work. And I think the size 3 needle I'm using is too big. That's not usually such a problem for me because I am a tight knitter. I just feel like 2's are going to be a better fit. Maybe I do need to go to the yarn shop. I really would like to get the hang of Icarus sooner rather than later.
Well. Guess I'd better get dressed. It's not good to pop over to the LYS in your jammies.
GG
I've had my brekkie, my cuppa tea, did a little knitting.
But should I visit the local yarn shop? I could just stay here at my parents' house and continue knitting, or I could meander over to Creative Hands to check out their new location...
oh decisions, decisions.
Lord knows that I don't actually need any yarn, but I did leave my cable needle at home. We've been making do with a tapestry needle and we only have to cable once every ten rows, but you know. It's really important to have the right tools for the job. At least that's what I've been telling myself.
And I did try to cast on for Icarus last night. Got through the set up rows only to foul up exponentially on row 7 of Chart 1. I'm not understanding how the stitch markers are supposed to work with the decreases. Anyway I had to frog the work. And I think the size 3 needle I'm using is too big. That's not usually such a problem for me because I am a tight knitter. I just feel like 2's are going to be a better fit. Maybe I do need to go to the yarn shop. I really would like to get the hang of Icarus sooner rather than later.
Well. Guess I'd better get dressed. It's not good to pop over to the LYS in your jammies.
GG
Saturday, March 17, 2007
Knitter's Weekend
My parents have gone to Texas to hang out with Grandma and Grandpa. That means I get to spend the weekend catsitting at my parents' house. You'll find me on the couch, KWI. You know, Knitting Without Interruption.
It's not too often that I'm alone for days at a time, without having to go to work. It's quieting and restful. I'm trying to find some sort of personal insight into this peaceful weekend, but I'm not finding any.
I must be knitting too much, because any insights I have are in my knitting.
I'm still working on the Central Park Hoodie, and I've 3-needle-bound-off the shoulder seams. They look nice and tidy. And now I am knitting the hood part, for which I needed to pick up some stitches. It's nice to see that my picked up stitches are much neater than in past attempts. Quite gratifying actually. I feel like I should be sweaty in the middle of a boxing ring holding the championship belt for finishing. But we still have the botton bands to do yet.
I'm still working on the Lace Style beginner lace shrug thing-o. I'd tell you the actual name of the project, but I left that book at home. Just when I think I have the hang of the lace, I get to the end of a row and have an extra stitch. Harumph. But that's why we have the extra projects.
I cast on for the One Skein Baby Bolero. That will be a quickie, fortunately b/c there's a baby on the way (not mine) scheduled for arrival in May, and with all this upcoming Japan travel I need to get that finished pronto. I'm using the Blue Sky Cotton it calls for and I have a huge stash of it, in an abundance of colors, but this is the first time I'm actually using it and man, I'm soooo glad I bought so much of it, because it's like buttah, Barbara Streisand buttah. One day when I get crazy enough to buy a knitting machine, I might actually make myself a blanket out of this stuff, but then again, there's this cardigan that I like from Greetings from the Knit Cafe that I could make with it. oooo wouldn't that be cozy.
Can't you tell I've had a glass of wine?
Tomorrow morning I will wonder-of-all-wonders cast-on the Icarus Shawl. Gag, blah freak out!!!!! This is the Thelma and Louise of knitting projects. My pal Izzy is my Thursday night gal. If I'm not hanging out with her at gaming, then we're at Knit Night at MFA. And either I was drunk on wine, or on the abundance of new yarn that Warren had, but we decided that we have to do a knit-along together just for our gaming nights. That in itself is not dangerous. The dangerous part was deciding that we should knit the Icarus shawl. Why not? It's a beautiful shawl, and I haven't done lace of the micrometer gauge yet, but something tells me that gaming and delicate lace don't mix.
I can picture it now...
INT: Suburban Dining Area
Six people surround the dining table with dnd books, dice and junkfood. The Dungeon Master (DM) sits at the head of the table with his dragon divider.
DM "Grenadine, what's your initiative"
No response from Grenadine, she's busy knitting.
The rest of the gamers (except Izzy, the other knitter) stare at Grenadine.
Grenadine: "Oh are you talking to me?"
DM: "Yes what's your initiative?"
Grenadine: "2"
DM: "2, that's not possible, your dex mod is at least 3"
GG: "Oh sorry that was the number of repeats in the shawl? What am I rolling for?"
This kind of thing could get you kicked out of a game. But not to confuse my partner in crime Izzy, I'm looking forward to Icarus and people tell me it's easier than it looks.
Well I should get back to the knitting... and that glass of wine.
GG
It's not too often that I'm alone for days at a time, without having to go to work. It's quieting and restful. I'm trying to find some sort of personal insight into this peaceful weekend, but I'm not finding any.
I must be knitting too much, because any insights I have are in my knitting.
I'm still working on the Central Park Hoodie, and I've 3-needle-bound-off the shoulder seams. They look nice and tidy. And now I am knitting the hood part, for which I needed to pick up some stitches. It's nice to see that my picked up stitches are much neater than in past attempts. Quite gratifying actually. I feel like I should be sweaty in the middle of a boxing ring holding the championship belt for finishing. But we still have the botton bands to do yet.
I'm still working on the Lace Style beginner lace shrug thing-o. I'd tell you the actual name of the project, but I left that book at home. Just when I think I have the hang of the lace, I get to the end of a row and have an extra stitch. Harumph. But that's why we have the extra projects.
I cast on for the One Skein Baby Bolero. That will be a quickie, fortunately b/c there's a baby on the way (not mine) scheduled for arrival in May, and with all this upcoming Japan travel I need to get that finished pronto. I'm using the Blue Sky Cotton it calls for and I have a huge stash of it, in an abundance of colors, but this is the first time I'm actually using it and man, I'm soooo glad I bought so much of it, because it's like buttah, Barbara Streisand buttah. One day when I get crazy enough to buy a knitting machine, I might actually make myself a blanket out of this stuff, but then again, there's this cardigan that I like from Greetings from the Knit Cafe that I could make with it. oooo wouldn't that be cozy.
Can't you tell I've had a glass of wine?
Tomorrow morning I will wonder-of-all-wonders cast-on the Icarus Shawl. Gag, blah freak out!!!!! This is the Thelma and Louise of knitting projects. My pal Izzy is my Thursday night gal. If I'm not hanging out with her at gaming, then we're at Knit Night at MFA. And either I was drunk on wine, or on the abundance of new yarn that Warren had, but we decided that we have to do a knit-along together just for our gaming nights. That in itself is not dangerous. The dangerous part was deciding that we should knit the Icarus shawl. Why not? It's a beautiful shawl, and I haven't done lace of the micrometer gauge yet, but something tells me that gaming and delicate lace don't mix.
I can picture it now...
INT: Suburban Dining Area
Six people surround the dining table with dnd books, dice and junkfood. The Dungeon Master (DM) sits at the head of the table with his dragon divider.
DM "Grenadine, what's your initiative"
No response from Grenadine, she's busy knitting.
The rest of the gamers (except Izzy, the other knitter) stare at Grenadine.
Grenadine: "Oh are you talking to me?"
DM: "Yes what's your initiative?"
Grenadine: "2"
DM: "2, that's not possible, your dex mod is at least 3"
GG: "Oh sorry that was the number of repeats in the shawl? What am I rolling for?"
This kind of thing could get you kicked out of a game. But not to confuse my partner in crime Izzy, I'm looking forward to Icarus and people tell me it's easier than it looks.
Well I should get back to the knitting... and that glass of wine.
GG
Thursday, March 15, 2007
First Stop in Tokyo
In May, when I go to Tokyo, this will be one of the first places I visit:
http://www.cabel.name/2007/02/japan-story-gyoza-stadium.html
Gyoza City???
http://www.cabel.name/2007/02/japan-story-gyoza-stadium.html
Gyoza City???
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
And now for those long promised photos
First off, I've got a fancy new camera and of course I had to wander around the house searching for appropriate subjects to photograph.
But then I found the yarn.
The basket full of the Central Park Hoodie. I'm ready to actually make the hood part of the hoodie, but I've been knitting the sleeves for the last 3 weeks and I need a break.
Which is why we need a moment to view the fruits of my sock yarn addiction:
Here's my first attempt at lace, which is going very well. I'm loving the new lace style book. There's a couple of things I might attempt. There's a rumor going around that I'm going to try the Icarus shawl too.
alright time to do some actual knitting, if I can fit it in before I start cooking dinner...
GG
But then I found the yarn.
The basket full of the Central Park Hoodie. I'm ready to actually make the hood part of the hoodie, but I've been knitting the sleeves for the last 3 weeks and I need a break.
Which is why we need a moment to view the fruits of my sock yarn addiction:
Here's my first attempt at lace, which is going very well. I'm loving the new lace style book. There's a couple of things I might attempt. There's a rumor going around that I'm going to try the Icarus shawl too.
alright time to do some actual knitting, if I can fit it in before I start cooking dinner...
GG
Bad Brain
Just got back from lunch.
Why haven't I figured out that I just don't like quiche?
My brain looks at quiche and thinks "hmm quiche, that looks nice, let's try some of that for lunch today... it has eggs, cheese, veggies and pie crust... these are all things that I like to eat... yes eat quiche"
But then when I actually eat it at lunch, quiche almost always tastes awful. A total let down. It's too egg-y, not cheesy enough and the veggies just drown in it. Bad texture, bad flavor. Yuck. Sometimes you really can have too much of a good thing.
And this isn't the first time this has happened. I think I have to give up the fight on the good quiche. It just doesn't exist.
So for future reference brain: I don't like quiche.
It's necessary to train my brain in this way because there are so few foods that I dislike.
GG
Why haven't I figured out that I just don't like quiche?
My brain looks at quiche and thinks "hmm quiche, that looks nice, let's try some of that for lunch today... it has eggs, cheese, veggies and pie crust... these are all things that I like to eat... yes eat quiche"
But then when I actually eat it at lunch, quiche almost always tastes awful. A total let down. It's too egg-y, not cheesy enough and the veggies just drown in it. Bad texture, bad flavor. Yuck. Sometimes you really can have too much of a good thing.
And this isn't the first time this has happened. I think I have to give up the fight on the good quiche. It just doesn't exist.
So for future reference brain: I don't like quiche.
It's necessary to train my brain in this way because there are so few foods that I dislike.
GG
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
One of those non-knitting posts (almost)
A friend of mine bemoans the fact that I spend most of my time on this blog writing about knitting and not so much time on any interesting personal insights.
And here I was thinking that I was able to occasionally blend the two.
It's been hard for me to write lately because I have an inner conflict. As much as I enjoy writing a blog and sharing my knitting projects and life stories, I'm not so comfortable sharing my personal struggles. And while life hasn't been so full of struggle per se, it can be difficult to share one's life without being too specific.
Which can be frustrating. I want to share, but I don't want to be too personal. I have learned the hard way to choose the consesrvative option when in doubt. As much as something can be difficult for you, and as much as it seems like your whole universe, most people really don't want to know. I mean this is a knitting blog. this isn't the -insert your favorite medical problem/social issue here- blog. So here, we talk about yarn and knitting projects and we like it!
I suppose this is why therapists are so expensive. But one can't afford both a therapist and a yarn habit.
Besides, yarn is a much longer lasting expense and infinately more theraputic. Yarn doesn't pretend to listen to you, doesn't give you that uncomfortable half-hug. Yarn doesn't email you on the infrequent whim. It just sits there, looks pretty, and feels nice. Wow suddenly I have a lot more in common with middle aged men that I thought I did. And no that doesn't mean that I'm experiencing a mid-life crisis.
just to interject here. I'm watching American Idol and doesn't Sanjaya have potential as a possible Knit-wear model? With tonight's hairdo he sure does look like a Filati Model.
So in lieu of therapy there has been a lot of knitting. A foray into LACE. A new sock design. Oh and a new fingerless glove design here. I'm gonna take some photos.
See I feel better already.
GG
And here I was thinking that I was able to occasionally blend the two.
It's been hard for me to write lately because I have an inner conflict. As much as I enjoy writing a blog and sharing my knitting projects and life stories, I'm not so comfortable sharing my personal struggles. And while life hasn't been so full of struggle per se, it can be difficult to share one's life without being too specific.
Which can be frustrating. I want to share, but I don't want to be too personal. I have learned the hard way to choose the consesrvative option when in doubt. As much as something can be difficult for you, and as much as it seems like your whole universe, most people really don't want to know. I mean this is a knitting blog. this isn't the -insert your favorite medical problem/social issue here- blog. So here, we talk about yarn and knitting projects and we like it!
I suppose this is why therapists are so expensive. But one can't afford both a therapist and a yarn habit.
Besides, yarn is a much longer lasting expense and infinately more theraputic. Yarn doesn't pretend to listen to you, doesn't give you that uncomfortable half-hug. Yarn doesn't email you on the infrequent whim. It just sits there, looks pretty, and feels nice. Wow suddenly I have a lot more in common with middle aged men that I thought I did. And no that doesn't mean that I'm experiencing a mid-life crisis.
just to interject here. I'm watching American Idol and doesn't Sanjaya have potential as a possible Knit-wear model? With tonight's hairdo he sure does look like a Filati Model.
So in lieu of therapy there has been a lot of knitting. A foray into LACE. A new sock design. Oh and a new fingerless glove design here. I'm gonna take some photos.
See I feel better already.
GG
Tuesday, February 27, 2007
Five Favorite Things Meme
Izzytart got me to thinkin' about my five favoritiest little things that make me happy and satisfied.
1) Whenever Mr. G wears anything that I have knit for him.
2) Serving friends and family a dinner that I have prepared from scratch.
3) Walking into a new yarn shop.
4) The little wooden dolphin that my mother-in-law gave me that reminds me of my honeymoon.
5) Crying at the movies.
GG
1) Whenever Mr. G wears anything that I have knit for him.
2) Serving friends and family a dinner that I have prepared from scratch.
3) Walking into a new yarn shop.
4) The little wooden dolphin that my mother-in-law gave me that reminds me of my honeymoon.
5) Crying at the movies.
GG
Saturday, February 24, 2007
The Best Secret Pal Ever
Hello All,
Welcome to my long overdue catch up post.
First up: Secret Pal! It ended just about a month ago and I finally can post photos and tell you who my marvelous spoiler was. Nicole The Knitting Goddess. She's the increadibly thoughtful woman behind the Endless Sunshine of the Spotless Mind Sock Yarn. Brilliant I tell you Brilliant!!!!!!!!! It still makes me smile every time I see it. Thank you Nicole for being a sweet pal. I want to send you a little thank you package...
So here's what she sent me for my secret pal finale:
This looks like an innocent tin. I LOVE the presentation.
Inside there is a treasure trove of knitterly goodies and a cute card!
Nicole made a washcloth for me. Love it! It's my new kitchen washcloth. It reminds me of a quilting block.
And this Noro neckcuff. Beautiful colors and amazing button.
Take a closer look at the button:
Very arts-and-crafts-movement. Which is my favorite era of home decor.
And she got me a nail file from her LYS. Very useful and cute.
Last, but not least, some dark tweed. I'm a tweed freak so this was a good choice. In fact I might use it for the leaves on that Rowan cardi on the cover of last fall's magazine...
Nicole: thank you again for your generosity and thoughtfullness, you are seriously one the best secret pal!
Now, visit her blog it's supercute. She's just finished that fitted bodice project that everyone's doing.
Soon to come: some finished objects, a trip to stitches (the credit card groans) and more works in progress!
GG
Welcome to my long overdue catch up post.
First up: Secret Pal! It ended just about a month ago and I finally can post photos and tell you who my marvelous spoiler was. Nicole The Knitting Goddess. She's the increadibly thoughtful woman behind the Endless Sunshine of the Spotless Mind Sock Yarn. Brilliant I tell you Brilliant!!!!!!!!! It still makes me smile every time I see it. Thank you Nicole for being a sweet pal. I want to send you a little thank you package...
So here's what she sent me for my secret pal finale:
This looks like an innocent tin. I LOVE the presentation.
Inside there is a treasure trove of knitterly goodies and a cute card!
Nicole made a washcloth for me. Love it! It's my new kitchen washcloth. It reminds me of a quilting block.
And this Noro neckcuff. Beautiful colors and amazing button.
Take a closer look at the button:
Very arts-and-crafts-movement. Which is my favorite era of home decor.
And she got me a nail file from her LYS. Very useful and cute.
Last, but not least, some dark tweed. I'm a tweed freak so this was a good choice. In fact I might use it for the leaves on that Rowan cardi on the cover of last fall's magazine...
Nicole: thank you again for your generosity and thoughtfullness, you are seriously one the best secret pal!
Now, visit her blog it's supercute. She's just finished that fitted bodice project that everyone's doing.
Soon to come: some finished objects, a trip to stitches (the credit card groans) and more works in progress!
GG
Wednesday, February 14, 2007
No More Resolutions
I've let the year do all the resolving for myself in 2007. I eshewed my usual New Year's introspection and goal setting. I didn't want to think about it. I got the feeling like anything I chose to do would somehow be thwarted by fate. And indeed this is the case. This has turned out to be the year of movie watching and travel. So far I've already been to San Diego and I'll soon head to Japan, but last weekend I took a last minute trip to visit my grandparents in Dallas.
I made the most of it, reading, knitting and hanging around with the grandparents. I did my best to make up for all the years of being an obnoxious teenager and difficult child. I helped in the kitchen, I watched game shows, and I even went to church with grandma to meet all of her friends. It was very fulfilling to witness them in their routines and to see them with one another. It makes me wonder what Mr. G and I will be like when we're in our golden years. I feel like I know them better now than I did when I was a teenager and I didn't get that chance with my dad's parents. It's a good feeling. I also got to see some other family members that I don't get so see so often, cousins I knew when they were infants. Oh boy.
Aside from all the family stuff grandma did take me to the Shabby Sheep on Boll street, a cute little bungalow of a yarn shop. Very welcoming staff and an abundance of yarn falling from every nook and cranny. It took some serious self discipline not to take the whole shop with me. Instead I settled for two skeins of the Araucania hand dyed cotton. Hopefully I'll get another chance to visit the shop. I still have my eye on some beaded knitting needles there.... drool drool drool.
As a result of the Japan trip I'm also trying to learn some Japanese. There's nothing funnier to me than talking with a tape in Japanese in my car as I drive to and from work. koNeecheewaaaaa. Ahhhh Sasayamasan, KoNeeecheewaaaa. I have to practice for the wedding. I don't want to be an uncultutred American. Although I'm sure I'll do something very stupid American-like while I'm there. Needless to say, learning Japanese wasn't at the top of my list of things I thought I would do in '07, but I'm better for it. I kinda forgot how much I love languages.
I also got a chance to visit the Dallas Museum of Art, which is one of the best Art Museums in the US, in my humble opinion. When I'm there the art fatigue doesn't set in nearly as fast as in other institutions. The building in itself is so serene that you don't feel bombarded by design. This allows for the art to speak for itself and it doesn't compete with it's surrounds. As much as I enjoy the new De Young Museum in Golden Gate Park. It's so design-y that I get overwhelmed just entering the darn thing. It was certainly a treat to see the original sketch of Van Gogh's cafe painting. And I saw a couple of Gherhart Richter's paintings again. He's one of the few modern artists that's able to elicit an emotional response from my. When I see it's work it's like being reunited with an old friend. I pondered for a bit if I give assign paintings an emotional response associated with an experience. I like Ricter because he reminds me of being in Sydney. I like Van Gogh because he reminds me of France and of my husband. I love David because he reawakens my love of French history.
All this introspection now? Is this because I didn't do so much of it at the new year? The year of being, since it appears I'll be in many different places.
I feel more connected to the universe than I have in a long time. I feel like I'm seeing signs again, positive reinforcements from the world when I need it.
There are still surprises ahead. One of my millenium horoscopes said back in 1999 that in 2007 a dream would come true. I suppose the question now is. Which one?
GG
I made the most of it, reading, knitting and hanging around with the grandparents. I did my best to make up for all the years of being an obnoxious teenager and difficult child. I helped in the kitchen, I watched game shows, and I even went to church with grandma to meet all of her friends. It was very fulfilling to witness them in their routines and to see them with one another. It makes me wonder what Mr. G and I will be like when we're in our golden years. I feel like I know them better now than I did when I was a teenager and I didn't get that chance with my dad's parents. It's a good feeling. I also got to see some other family members that I don't get so see so often, cousins I knew when they were infants. Oh boy.
Aside from all the family stuff grandma did take me to the Shabby Sheep on Boll street, a cute little bungalow of a yarn shop. Very welcoming staff and an abundance of yarn falling from every nook and cranny. It took some serious self discipline not to take the whole shop with me. Instead I settled for two skeins of the Araucania hand dyed cotton. Hopefully I'll get another chance to visit the shop. I still have my eye on some beaded knitting needles there.... drool drool drool.
As a result of the Japan trip I'm also trying to learn some Japanese. There's nothing funnier to me than talking with a tape in Japanese in my car as I drive to and from work. koNeecheewaaaaa. Ahhhh Sasayamasan, KoNeeecheewaaaa. I have to practice for the wedding. I don't want to be an uncultutred American. Although I'm sure I'll do something very stupid American-like while I'm there. Needless to say, learning Japanese wasn't at the top of my list of things I thought I would do in '07, but I'm better for it. I kinda forgot how much I love languages.
I also got a chance to visit the Dallas Museum of Art, which is one of the best Art Museums in the US, in my humble opinion. When I'm there the art fatigue doesn't set in nearly as fast as in other institutions. The building in itself is so serene that you don't feel bombarded by design. This allows for the art to speak for itself and it doesn't compete with it's surrounds. As much as I enjoy the new De Young Museum in Golden Gate Park. It's so design-y that I get overwhelmed just entering the darn thing. It was certainly a treat to see the original sketch of Van Gogh's cafe painting. And I saw a couple of Gherhart Richter's paintings again. He's one of the few modern artists that's able to elicit an emotional response from my. When I see it's work it's like being reunited with an old friend. I pondered for a bit if I give assign paintings an emotional response associated with an experience. I like Ricter because he reminds me of being in Sydney. I like Van Gogh because he reminds me of France and of my husband. I love David because he reawakens my love of French history.
All this introspection now? Is this because I didn't do so much of it at the new year? The year of being, since it appears I'll be in many different places.
I feel more connected to the universe than I have in a long time. I feel like I'm seeing signs again, positive reinforcements from the world when I need it.
There are still surprises ahead. One of my millenium horoscopes said back in 1999 that in 2007 a dream would come true. I suppose the question now is. Which one?
GG
Friday, January 26, 2007
Because I'm Big in Japan
yep soon I'll be going to the land of Japan for my brother's second wedding. It's all a little intimidating, so much to plan and organize. I need to learn some phrases in Japanese, like "where is the nearest yarn shop?" Or, "do you carry sock yarn?"
As such I've been reading up quite a bit on the local customs and came across this, on the Gojapan.about.com website:
Packing Tip 4: Shoes
Since it's a Japanese custom to take off your shoes indoors, you might have to take off your shoes often in Japan. Bringing a pair of shoes that you can slip off and on easily might be convenient. Make sure to bring, and wear, a nice pair of socks or pantyhose to avoid any embarrassment when you take off your shoes.
I don't think a nice pair of socks will be a problem do you?
GG
As such I've been reading up quite a bit on the local customs and came across this, on the Gojapan.about.com website:
Packing Tip 4: Shoes
Since it's a Japanese custom to take off your shoes indoors, you might have to take off your shoes often in Japan. Bringing a pair of shoes that you can slip off and on easily might be convenient. Make sure to bring, and wear, a nice pair of socks or pantyhose to avoid any embarrassment when you take off your shoes.
I don't think a nice pair of socks will be a problem do you?
GG
Saturday, January 20, 2007
Friday, January 19, 2007
Stash Moment
I was looking at sock yarn on the internets and it occurred to me that perhaps I should fondle the sock yarn I already have.
Lord knows theres some lornas laces shephard sock in VERA in my to-be-knitted box.
But that would assume that I have finished the pair of socks I've been working on.
I'm going to finish a pair of socks this weekend so that I can have a new pair of socks to knit during the superbowl.
That's right. You heard me. The Superbowl.
I have been watching football. American football. It's as much a shock to me as it is to my coworkers and friends. But the Patriots are contenders and as a former New Englander I'm obligated to watch.
Ra Ra Ra
GG
Lord knows theres some lornas laces shephard sock in VERA in my to-be-knitted box.
But that would assume that I have finished the pair of socks I've been working on.
I'm going to finish a pair of socks this weekend so that I can have a new pair of socks to knit during the superbowl.
That's right. You heard me. The Superbowl.
I have been watching football. American football. It's as much a shock to me as it is to my coworkers and friends. But the Patriots are contenders and as a former New Englander I'm obligated to watch.
Ra Ra Ra
GG
Sunday, January 14, 2007
In Recovery
Must. Get. Rest.
No. More. Yarn.
I'm yarned out. I just got back from TNNA, the wholesale needlearts tradeshow, where I worked the booth for the Fabulous Yarn Company. Unlike my previous foray I spent the most of the time setting up and working the booth, which was great. However it required a lot more energy and hard work and I'm exhausted and need to recharge. But it was great to get to know my employers and coworkers better. And I got to visit some fabulous restaurants and cafes. It was a mini work break.
This was my first time to San Diego and it is a beautiful city. So well spaced out in relation to the ocean. It felt so light and airy -quite welcoming. The restaurants are just as charming.
Across from the convention center is Tin Fish, a seafood restaurant with some tasty crab cakes. The fish tacos were huge and yummy -the American version of the real thing. Usually when I order from a taqueria you get two small tacos, Tin Fish's is more likea Fish Burrito. The staff was friendly even if the atmosphere was a bit lacking. More like seafood restaurant meets airport bar, but considering it's proximity to both a ball park and a convention center it still exceeds expectations.
We stayed at the Horton Grand Hotel, an old haunted Victorian Hotel where Wyatt Earp once stayed. The accomodations were comfortable and cute. It reminded me of where Mr. G and I got married.
After setting up the show we went for dinner at the Dublin Square which is one of the best Irish Pubs outside of Ireland that I have ever been to. It was cozy having a dinner next to the fireplace on two couches and a coffee table. The music was loud enough to be recognizable and provided good conversation. I was still a little full from the seafood so I kept dinner light with a bowl of tomato basil soup and a dinner salad, which were both yummy and flavorful. Everyone shared their dinners so I also got a taste of the Guinness braised beef, which melted in my mouth with a taste of gorgonzola cheese.
mmmm. Gorgonzola.
And the fish and chips were crispy and we didn't have to ask for the malt vinegar.
The next morning the hotel clerk directed me to Cafe 222 for breakfast, which is just down the street from the Horton. The staff were super friendly, evenmoreso than at Tin Fish. They commented on my hat and scarf and even better they were quick to refill my coffee. The decor was supercute. Check out the photos
I like the lighting
check out the cups and saucers!
I ordered the Eggs Italia, very satisfying. Toasted foccacia with herbed scrambled eggs and creme fraiche and spicey home potatoes. Wish I could get that a little closer to home.
The complimented hat and scarf. Pardon the expression. It was cold.
A little more of the atmosphere.
San Diego is a rockin' place. Don't tell anyone but I like it almost as much as I like San Francisco. Maybe even more. The restaurants are remarkably more welcoming.
But I need to rest.
and maybe knit.
GG
No. More. Yarn.
I'm yarned out. I just got back from TNNA, the wholesale needlearts tradeshow, where I worked the booth for the Fabulous Yarn Company. Unlike my previous foray I spent the most of the time setting up and working the booth, which was great. However it required a lot more energy and hard work and I'm exhausted and need to recharge. But it was great to get to know my employers and coworkers better. And I got to visit some fabulous restaurants and cafes. It was a mini work break.
This was my first time to San Diego and it is a beautiful city. So well spaced out in relation to the ocean. It felt so light and airy -quite welcoming. The restaurants are just as charming.
Across from the convention center is Tin Fish, a seafood restaurant with some tasty crab cakes. The fish tacos were huge and yummy -the American version of the real thing. Usually when I order from a taqueria you get two small tacos, Tin Fish's is more likea Fish Burrito. The staff was friendly even if the atmosphere was a bit lacking. More like seafood restaurant meets airport bar, but considering it's proximity to both a ball park and a convention center it still exceeds expectations.
We stayed at the Horton Grand Hotel, an old haunted Victorian Hotel where Wyatt Earp once stayed. The accomodations were comfortable and cute. It reminded me of where Mr. G and I got married.
After setting up the show we went for dinner at the Dublin Square which is one of the best Irish Pubs outside of Ireland that I have ever been to. It was cozy having a dinner next to the fireplace on two couches and a coffee table. The music was loud enough to be recognizable and provided good conversation. I was still a little full from the seafood so I kept dinner light with a bowl of tomato basil soup and a dinner salad, which were both yummy and flavorful. Everyone shared their dinners so I also got a taste of the Guinness braised beef, which melted in my mouth with a taste of gorgonzola cheese.
mmmm. Gorgonzola.
And the fish and chips were crispy and we didn't have to ask for the malt vinegar.
The next morning the hotel clerk directed me to Cafe 222 for breakfast, which is just down the street from the Horton. The staff were super friendly, evenmoreso than at Tin Fish. They commented on my hat and scarf and even better they were quick to refill my coffee. The decor was supercute. Check out the photos
I like the lighting
check out the cups and saucers!
I ordered the Eggs Italia, very satisfying. Toasted foccacia with herbed scrambled eggs and creme fraiche and spicey home potatoes. Wish I could get that a little closer to home.
The complimented hat and scarf. Pardon the expression. It was cold.
A little more of the atmosphere.
San Diego is a rockin' place. Don't tell anyone but I like it almost as much as I like San Francisco. Maybe even more. The restaurants are remarkably more welcoming.
But I need to rest.
and maybe knit.
GG
Tuesday, January 09, 2007
More Movie Fun
A while back you may have read that I love the BBC version of Pride and Prejudice starring Colin Firth. It's a movie that I revisit once a season. Truly the best romance happens when two unlikely characters despise each other and learn to love one another. Because even if you fall in love with someone whom you admire, there is still so much that you need to reconcile; behaviors that you have to learn to accept that may be contradictory to your own. Both parties have to reevaluate their habits, customs, and expectations. This is not something that some people realize when their dating or in a relationship. The focus is finding Mr. or Mrs. Right, whoever is going to fulfill your fantasy of what a relationship should be. The truth is that no matter how much in love you are, no matter how much you admire someone, interpersonal negotiation and reevaluation is necessary for a successful relationship.
All this intellectual stuff makes for some prodigious knitting.
So imagine my joy at finding a new BBC drama: North and South the story of a family who is forced to move from their luxurious parsonage in bucolic Southern England to the harsh Northern manufacturing city of Milton. I went through the whole miniseries in one afternoon and enjoyed it as much, if not more than Pride and Prejudice.
Go on, get thee to Netflix and tell me what you think.
GG
All this intellectual stuff makes for some prodigious knitting.
So imagine my joy at finding a new BBC drama: North and South the story of a family who is forced to move from their luxurious parsonage in bucolic Southern England to the harsh Northern manufacturing city of Milton. I went through the whole miniseries in one afternoon and enjoyed it as much, if not more than Pride and Prejudice.
Go on, get thee to Netflix and tell me what you think.
GG
Saturday, January 06, 2007
The New Movie Habit
Still catching up on movies.
We watched Superman Returns, which was much better than expected. Superman was always too much of a goody goody for me. If he was a dnd class he would be a paladin, no doubt and I prefer rogues and bards.
Friends With Money was excellent. I enjoyed the simple quiet of it, the portrayals of different kinds of depression. One of the best character pieces of the whole year. I really do lean towards ensemble character pieces. It's in my top ten of 2006, which I will fully flesh out by early February.
but so far my favorites are:
Friends with Money
Scoop
The Prestige
That means I have to find another 7 movies to add and most of the good ones aren't on dvd yet.
Ugg guess this means I'll have to actually go to the movie theatre. Or we'll end up with my best of '06 list in '08.
GG
We watched Superman Returns, which was much better than expected. Superman was always too much of a goody goody for me. If he was a dnd class he would be a paladin, no doubt and I prefer rogues and bards.
Friends With Money was excellent. I enjoyed the simple quiet of it, the portrayals of different kinds of depression. One of the best character pieces of the whole year. I really do lean towards ensemble character pieces. It's in my top ten of 2006, which I will fully flesh out by early February.
but so far my favorites are:
Friends with Money
Scoop
The Prestige
That means I have to find another 7 movies to add and most of the good ones aren't on dvd yet.
Ugg guess this means I'll have to actually go to the movie theatre. Or we'll end up with my best of '06 list in '08.
GG
Tuesday, January 02, 2007
Record!
I finished the sock last night while watching a History Channel doco about Marie Antoinette.
Yay!
However I didn't get to the 3rd dvd of Lord of the Rings. Apparently I had had enough of Hobbits.
Gasp!
GG
Yay!
However I didn't get to the 3rd dvd of Lord of the Rings. Apparently I had had enough of Hobbits.
Gasp!
GG
Monday, January 01, 2007
What Are You Doing New Year's Day?
Me?
I'm watching the entire Lord of the Rings Trilogy on dvd.
Yes, I'm a geek.
But I've been knitting like a fiend. I started a sock on Christmas Day and miracle of miracles I might have it done tonight, just one week later. That's a record for me. Usually it takes me weeks plural to finish one sock.
The Record One-Week-Sock
I suppose it helps that I've had this last week off.
It's knit with Crystal Palace Panda Wool, which is a dream to work with and feels fabulous on foot. I've decided my favorite sock yarns are the ones that aren't too thin in gauge. Out of the five pairs I've knit, the two favorites are knit with the Panda Wool and Fleece Artist Merino. So if you like the gauge of the Fleece Artist, you'll like the Panda Wool. Yum!
Not one to continue being entertained by one project I had to cast on another project, this time a hat of my own design to match the fingerless gloves I made for Mr. G.
This New Year's Day beats last year's when it was 110 degrees in downtown Sydney and Mr. G and I were madly hungover, wandering the empty city looking for water (there was none to be found!) and a diversion from the heat. (however NYE last year will go down as the best so far -come on partying on the steps of the Sydney Opera House?"
Perhaps one could hypothesize that you can't have both a rocking New Year's Eve AND a great New Year's Day.
Guess we'll try to prove that 365 days from now.
GG
I'm watching the entire Lord of the Rings Trilogy on dvd.
Yes, I'm a geek.
But I've been knitting like a fiend. I started a sock on Christmas Day and miracle of miracles I might have it done tonight, just one week later. That's a record for me. Usually it takes me weeks plural to finish one sock.
The Record One-Week-Sock
I suppose it helps that I've had this last week off.
It's knit with Crystal Palace Panda Wool, which is a dream to work with and feels fabulous on foot. I've decided my favorite sock yarns are the ones that aren't too thin in gauge. Out of the five pairs I've knit, the two favorites are knit with the Panda Wool and Fleece Artist Merino. So if you like the gauge of the Fleece Artist, you'll like the Panda Wool. Yum!
Not one to continue being entertained by one project I had to cast on another project, this time a hat of my own design to match the fingerless gloves I made for Mr. G.
This New Year's Day beats last year's when it was 110 degrees in downtown Sydney and Mr. G and I were madly hungover, wandering the empty city looking for water (there was none to be found!) and a diversion from the heat. (however NYE last year will go down as the best so far -come on partying on the steps of the Sydney Opera House?"
Perhaps one could hypothesize that you can't have both a rocking New Year's Eve AND a great New Year's Day.
Guess we'll try to prove that 365 days from now.
GG
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