tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-273933002024-03-07T21:42:11.909-10:00Lilikoi Knits... and eatsUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger69125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27393300.post-88336009867975909762009-08-02T13:09:00.002-10:002009-08-02T16:07:51.512-10:00Warning.... Actual Knitting Content AheadI have two whole finished objects to report! And not dinky little hats or something, but two whole sweaters! And, there's new hair too!!!<br /><br />First up is <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/lilikoiknits/22-garter-yoke-cardigan">my Garter Yoke</a>, which has been done for ages, but I finally found a time when: (1)it was cool enough to not risk heat stroke by wearing on an alpaca and wool sweater; (2) not raining; (3)there was a willing photographer around; and(4) my landlady wasn't home so we could have free reign of the property.<br /><br />Pattern: <a href="http://www.vogueknitting.com/books/product_info.php?products_id=598">Garter Yoke Cardigan by Melissa LaBarre</a> (Knit.1, Fall/Winter 2008/ Vogue Website) <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/badges/redirect?p=22-garter-yoke-cardigan"><img src="http://api.ravelry.com/badges/projects?p=22-garter-yoke-cardigan&t=.gif" style="border: medium none ;" /></a><br />Yarn: Cascade Yarns Lana D'Oro, Color 206. I used exactly 9 skeins. <br />Needles: Size 6 Clover Bamboo<br />Start/End Dates: January 21 2009 to April 2009<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/meganhm/3782362365/" title="Garter Yoke Cardigan by meganhm, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3255/3782362365_fa3a3925cf.jpg" alt="Garter Yoke Cardigan" width="375" height="500" /></a><br /><br />Over all, I'm pretty happy with this (which I guess is my first finished sweater). I like the pattern, but there'd be a few changes if I made it again: (1) I'd cast on fewer stitches at the start to make the neck not as wide (the pattern is a bit strange in that all sizes call for casting on the same amount of stitches); (2) short rows for bust shaping; (3) I modified it to have sleeve shaping, which was a good idea, but I think I made them a bit too small (well, other than the neck, pretty much the whole sweater is a bit too small).<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/meganhm/3783173044/" title="Garter Yoke Cardigan by meganhm, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3425/3783173044_5bd4afcb3c.jpg" alt="Garter Yoke Cardigan" width="375" height="500" /></a><br /><br />But, overall, it is a great pattern, and it could be a very fast knit (I purl slow, so that went a little slow). Highly recommended!!!<br /><br /><br /><br />Next up is <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/lilikoiknits/liesl"> my Liesl</a>, the eleven day sweater (which I could have finished in a week if I'd tried and hadn't taken a few days off in the middle). <br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/meganhm/3783174678/" title="Liesl by meganhm, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2621/3783174678_d58c26e55b.jpg" alt="Liesl" width="500" height="375" /></a><br /><br /><br />Pattern: <a href="http://ysolda.com/store/sweaters/liesl/">Liesl by Ysolda Teague </a> <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/badges/redirect?p=liesl"><img src="http://api.ravelry.com/badges/projects?p=liesl&t=.gif" style="border: medium none ;" /></a><br />Yarn: Araucania Nature Cotton, colorway 11. I used all of the 4 skeins I had.<br />Needles: Size 10.5 Denise (using magic loop for the sleeves). <br />Start/End Dates: July 19-30, 2009<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/meganhm/3783175434/" title="Liesl by meganhm, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2540/3783175434_e5855781b8.jpg" alt="Liesl" width="500" height="375" /></a><br /><br />I made the high neck version, and ended up not putting in any button holes, and I’m happy to just wear it as an open sweater (if I wanted it closed I think I’d go up a size). I know some people have had problems with the sleeves, so I was really careful to think about which direction to go as I picked up the underarm stitches and proceed carefully; I had no issues with that.<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/meganhm/3782363557/" title="Liesl by meganhm, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3526/3782363557_41d2451780.jpg" alt="Liesl" width="375" height="500" /></a><br /><br />However, as you can see, it is a bit short. I'm hoping it will stretch out a bit, as cotton has the tendency to do. But I'm afraid it maybe the Murphy's Law of yarn behavior, that the one time you want cotton to stretch, it won't. I really liked working with the yarn, but it does shed a lot. When I started this project I’d already tried to use the yarn for <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/lilikoiknits/ballet-t-shirt">two failed Ballet T Shirts</a>, so it had been frogged twice already, it seems to have held up pretty well, but I’m going to reserve final judgment until it has been washed/worn a few times to see if there are piling issues.<br /><br />Overall, I love this pattern, and I'm pretty sure I'll be making a few more. The pattern is well written and easy to memorize and fast. But best of all, it's great for Hawaii's climate, and a great stash buster.<br /><br />I'm trying to resist the urge to cast on for something new, and trying to finish up the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/lilikoiknits/lotus-blossom-tank">Lotus Blossom Tank</a>, and maybe even the<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/lilikoiknits/biker-jacket"> Biker Jacket</a> (it is so close), before I start anything new. But this is a happy post, talking about the rarely seen actual finished object, so I'm not going to get into that.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27393300.post-47796590954494707042009-07-23T17:06:00.003-10:002009-07-23T17:55:54.325-10:00Magazine PreviewsI have no new finished objects to actually show off (there are a few, but no pictures), and the list of WIP keeps growing, but I thought I'd pop in to mention the new previews that are up for <a href="http://www.interweaveknits.com/preview/2009_fall.asp">Interweave Knits Fall 2009</a> and <a href="http://www.knitscene.com/issue/Fall-2009-Projects.asp">Knitscene Fall 2009</a>. <br /><br />There are a few promising looking patterns, but my favorite is the <a href="http://www.interweaveknits.com/galleries/bonus/fall-2009/farmers-market-cardigan.asp">Farmer’s Market Cardigan by Connie Chang Chinchio</a>. It is a wonderful balance of basic, but not boring and comfortable looking with out being frumpy. The only other one that really stands out as something I'm interested in (though that always changes) is <a href="http://www.interweaveknits.com/galleries/bonus/fall-2009/rosamunds-cardigan.asp">Rosamund’s Cardigan by Andrea Pomerantz</a>, though I think I'd go for a less fuzzy yarn and maybe longer sleeves. A few of my other favorites, though probably not things I'd knit (for a variety of reasons) are: Barcelona Jacket, French Braid Pullover, Trellis and Vine Pullover. <br /><br />Knitscene isn't looking quite as promising, and a lot of the patterns look really unflattering on the models. There's nothing I'll be rushing to cast on for, but a few of my faves are: <a href="http://www.knitscene.com/issue/Fall-2009/carnaby-street-pullover.asp">Carnaby Street Pullover by Melissa Wehrle</a> (cute, but might not be the most flattering on me probably not appropriate for the climate here; <a href="http://www.knitscene.com/issue/Fall-2009/hollywood-herringbone-pullover.asp">Hollywood Herringbone Pullover by Kate Gagnon</a> (I've been waiting for this pattern to be published, but not really sure why as I doubt I'll ever knit it, but I really like it); <a href="http://www.knitscene.com/issue/Fall-2009/new-motorbike-jacket.asp">New Motorbike Jacket by Rebecca Daniels</a> (mostly because I'm a sucker for asymetrical openings, see Carnaby Street Pullover and Rosamund’s Cardigan above, and I guess the Hollywood Herringbone counts too... wow, I'm predictable).<br /><br />Mostly, the Fall issues make me a bit jealous of people who live in climates where wool sweaters are more useful. But I really shouldn't complain, and I have to remember the places here that go crazy with the AC, and that I might find some use for these. Right now Farmer's Market is looking the most promising, but we'll see how that goes, one of the wonderful things about Ravelry is the easy ability to see how others have reinterpreted patterns to make them better or more appropriate for my body/life (case in point, finding out that the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/lotus-blossom-tank">Lotus Blossom Tank actually looks great when it fits the wearer)</a>.<br /><br /><br />And, for a totally non-knitting aspect, here's a preview of Tim Burton's Alice in Wonderland, coming March of 2010. <br /><object width="560" height="340"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/ALGskY-cRyY&hl=en&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/ALGskY-cRyY&hl=en&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="560" height="340"></embed></object><br />Even though I'm having some issues with the vision (like how old Alice looks), I'm super excited. (And if that video gets taken down, try <a href="http://www.eonline.com/uberblog/b135383_rate-a-trailer_are_you_mad_alice_in.html">here</a>.)Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27393300.post-6124401073560561512009-06-11T12:58:00.002-10:002009-06-11T13:13:31.102-10:00How I've been spending my timeIn case you haven't figured out from the last few posts, I've been kinda focused more on sewing and food lately. Still knitting, but I'm enjoying the libraries selection of food and sewing books. Here's my current stack, which is a great indicator of how I've been spending my time: <br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/meganhm/3618183504/" title="Library Books- Or how I've been spending my time by meganhm, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3308/3618183504_c8d8bcbca8.jpg" width="375" height="500" alt="Library Books- Or how I've been spending my time" /></a><br /><br />And, here are pictures of yesterday's bread. It was pretty good, but I still really want to work on getting the <a href="http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-open-crumb-bread.htm">open, loose crumb</a> (like <a href="http://familystylefood.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/01/img_41241.jpg">this</a>). I think the bread may have been a bit over-proofed (which also may have contributed to the lack of <a href="http://www.thekitchn.com/thekitchn/word-of-mouth/word-of-mouth-oven-spring-047327">oven spring</a>), and maybe not wet enough. The recipe is the San Fransisco Sourdough from <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Crust-Crumb-Master-Formulas-Serious/dp/1580088023/ref=reg_hu-wl_list-recs">Crust & Crumb</a> (though I halved it). <br /><br />Here is a picture just out of the oven, and you can seen the lack of oven spring as the slashes barely spread during baking. <br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/meganhm/3618211262/" title="P6100111 by meganhm, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3563/3618211262_940fc41e39.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="P6100111" /></a><br /><br />And here is the crumb (second day). Nice and even, and the loaf was yummy, but I'm still trying to achieve the elusive open crumb. <br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/meganhm/3618211072/" title="Inside - still lacking open crumb by meganhm, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3305/3618211072_7063df4cd2.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="Inside - still lacking open crumb" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27393300.post-14343058874395000432009-06-10T11:08:00.006-10:002009-06-10T22:22:49.487-10:00A few of the Critters of Nu'uanuThe TV is currently broken, which one would think might increase productivity, but when it comes to knitting, the productivity has actually gone down as most of my knitting was done while watching TV. Currently I can still watch TV on my old 13 inch laptop, or netflix instant on the new 15.5 inch widescreen, but neither are as conducive to knitting as the real TV. I'm still making progress on the WIPs (and one new project which just needs to be felted), but nothing major to report yet. Actually, the Garter Yoke is done, and has even made an appearance at Aloha Knitters, but it has just been too hot to put on an alpaca and wool sweater for pictures. <br /><br />Instead I've been working more on other projects, including some sewing and more baking and reading. In fact I'm currently waiting for the most recent loaf of sourdough to cool enough to slice.* So, while I wait I thought I'd share some recent pictures of the interesting and/or cute creatures I've been encountering here (and I'll leave out the not so fun encounters I've had). Sorry that some of the pictures aren't great, some were taking quickly and with the only available camera, my phone. <br /><br /><br />First up are the pair (or sometimes trio) of ducks that seem to have taken up residence in the neighborhood. Upon research I'm pretty sure they are a hybrid of the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hawaiian_Duck">Hawaiian Duck</a> (koloa maoli) and Mallards. Unfortunately, the Mallards are an invasive species which has interbred with the native duck to the point where there are almost no ducks left that aren't hybrids (except on Kaua'i). And, what is even sadder is that it seems the hybrids are less adapted to the local ecosystem (so much for <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heterosis">hybrid vigor</a>). <br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/meganhm/3614369253/" title="Ducks by meganhm, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2454/3614369253_6dd8b81749.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="Ducks" /></a><br /><br /><br />One of the most vibrant animals we see are these <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gold_dust_day_gecko">Gold Dust Day Geckos</a>, just like the Geico gecko. Another invasive species, and they appear to be rather localized as friends who live less than 1/2 mile down the valley don't have them. <br />Here is one hiding in the light outside our front door.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/meganhm/3263052894/" title="image by meganhm, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3450/3263052894_6e59786464.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="image" /></a><br /><br />And this guy was being very cute, poking his head up from between the boards.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/meganhm/3614388571/" title="Gold Dust Day Gecko by meganhm, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3354/3614388571_78f558bd10.jpg" width="336" height="248" alt="Gold Dust Day Gecko" /></a><br /><br /><br />Not so vibrant, but <a href="http://www.instanthawaii.com/cgi-bin/hawaii?Animals.wstick">these walking sticks are just such interesting creatures</a>. While they move slow, which allowed me to get a better camera, I had a hard time photographing it to show the size and also the features. <br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/meganhm/3615182084/" title="Walking Stick by meganhm, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3557/3615182084_7475b861a4.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="Walking Stick" /></a><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/meganhm/3615181792/" title="Walking Stick by meganhm, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3641/3615181792_b8e37c5c60.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="Walking Stick" /></a><br /><br />Last, but not least is the one animal no one thinks we have here: <a href="http://www.explorebiodiversity.com/Hawaii/BiodiversityForgotten/Wildlife/Reptiles/Snakes%20-%20Blind.htm">the blind snake</a>. Yep, Hawaii has snakes, but they are tiny and blind. This one was dead (or doing a really good job of playing possum), and pretty big. <br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/meganhm/3615621789/" title="Blind Snake by meganhm, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2422/3615621789_86d432692e.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="Blind Snake" /></a><br /><br />And, since we are talking about animals, I thought I'd share this great flickr group I just found: the <a href="http://www.flickr.com/groups/askascientist/">Ask a Bishop Museum Scientist</a>. You can upload photos and a Bishop Museum scientist will try to identify the plant or animal (unfortunately, due to funding cuts, it seems they are limited in how much they can do).<br /><br /><br />Oh, and in actual knitting related blogging.... new knitty!! I haven't had time to puruse fully, but looks promising. I'm particularly intrigued by <a href="http://www.knitty.com/ISSUEsummer09/PATTtridactyl.php">Tridactyl</a> and the <a href="http://www.knitty.com/ISSUEsummer09/PATTcrab.php">crab </a>is adorable. <br /><br />*Okay, I'm not really still waiting now. But I was when I wrote this and then I had a lot of trouble getting the last photo off my phone, so it took a while to finish this. And, to report: the bread was pretty much a success, yummy, but I didn't get enough oven spring and am still having trouble achieving the open crumb I want.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27393300.post-78053888261586147522009-05-28T11:56:00.005-10:002009-05-28T12:44:47.403-10:00Adventures in Baking: Sourdough Buns & No-Knead BreadI have to wonder at what point one's partner becomes concerned that a new interest may have gone too far. I'm not sure exactly where that line is in knitting, or on which side of it I sit (though my husband may have something to say about that). However, I think I came close to that line on Monday with regards to the renewed sourdough baking interest. <br /><br />So far I've been focused on bread, with brief forays into pizza dough to use up the discarded starter. But Monday I decided to try making hamburger buns. To the non-baker I'm sure this sounds similar to how the idea of making socks sounds to a non-knitter ("You know, you can buy a pack of those at WalMart for a few bucks?"). But, just like socks, the handmade ones are worth the effort (and the effort was a lot less than socks. And, unlike socks, these were very close to the same price as the ones you'd get at the store, but much better. <br /><br />I used <a href="http://www.recipezaar.com/Sourdough-Burger-Buns-135870">this recipe </a> with a few slight modifications: I used whole wheat flour for about 1 cup, I used 1 cup starter and 1 cup discarded starter (because I didn't have enough fresh starter) and I used vegetable oil instead of butter (because it was there, but the butter probably would have given better flavor). I also brushed them with an egg wash and sprinkled sesame seeds on most of them before baking. Here are a few photos of the process: <br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/meganhm/3574561726/" title="Ready to Bake by meganhm, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3642/3574561726_f5eb836328_m.jpg" width="240" height="180" alt="Ready to Bake" /></a> <br />I used a small springform pan to cut out the rings, this is just after I cut them, but before they rose. I thought I got pictures after the rise but before the oven, but I guess not. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/meganhm/3573755053/" title="Fresh from the Oven by meganhm, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3361/3573755053_f2dfdd5ecc_m.jpg" width="240" height="180" alt="Fresh from the Oven" /></a><br />I probably crowded this pan a bit (this is not the one above), and then as they rose they smooshed together a bit as they rose, but still good. <br /><br />The final product, Lamb Burgers with Tzatziki (with the Greek salad hiding in the back)<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/meganhm/3574562042/" title="Lamb Burger with Tzatziki by meganhm, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3391/3574562042_6a45ac5d9c_m.jpg" width="240" height="180" alt="Lamb Burger with Tzatziki" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/meganhm/3574562192/" title="Lamb Burger with Tzatziki by meganhm, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3621/3574562192_c0ca6f3417_m.jpg" width="240" height="180" alt="Lamb Burger with Tzatziki" /></a><br /><br /><br />I also made a loaf of no-knead sourdough bread that day and it wasn't a total success. I followed a recipe that had me do the last rise in the dutch oven, and it spread out a lot so I ended up with a flat disk of bread instead of a beautiful boule. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/meganhm/3574592386/" title="No Knead Sourdough by meganhm, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3396/3574592386_8e50b098b8_m.jpg" width="240" height="180" alt="No Knead Sourdough" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/meganhm/3573785465/" title="No Knead Sourdough by meganhm, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3654/3573785465_8b1a176888_m.jpg" width="240" height="180" alt="No Knead Sourdough" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/meganhm/3574592088/" title="No Knead Sourdough by meganhm, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2431/3574592088_48943a0536_m.jpg" width="240" height="180" alt="No Knead Sourdough" /></a><br />I also burnt it a bit around the edges (I think the oven was too hot). Both of these things made it very hard to get out, luckily I'd put parchment of the bottom, but the sides were stuck very well and I didn't want to scrape the pot so i had to use a plastic bowl scraper. But the flavor was good (very sour) and the crumb was good, just need to revise the prooving/shaping methods.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27393300.post-49951985464342151902009-05-01T01:34:00.004-10:002009-05-01T01:36:52.553-10:00Still TinkeringI've been trying to make to columns here wider (which one would think blogger would make easy). Luckily I've managed to find good instructions <a href="http://bguide.blogspot.com/2008/04/rounders-with-wider-post-area.html">here</a>, but it will take a while to work out the kinks so bear with me as things may be a little messy for a bit.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27393300.post-51022345529407111892009-05-01T00:01:00.003-10:002009-05-01T01:05:38.283-10:00Cupcakes for the Grown-up SetMy blogging MO seems to be a spurt of posts and then silence. Really I have no excuses other than laziness. And I've even had a decent amount to blog about in terms of both knitting and cooking. <br /><br />On the cooking front the big one is that I'm getting back into more baking including recently sourdough bread (which will hopefully get its own post). The first up was an attempt to use a ton of limes I had (from a semi-failed attempt to make <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cochinita_pibil">Cochinita Pibil</a>, which I'll blog about if I ever make a version that is worth writing home about). I had the limes, and felt like baking something sweet, so my mind drifted to the good things I'd heard about the Margarita Cupcakes from <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Vegan-Cupcakes-Take-Over-World/dp/1569242739">Vegan Cupcakes Take Over the World</a>. Now, I'm not vegan, and I'm not even a huge fan of tequila, but the idea of vegan margarita cupcakes just warms my heart. So, after a quick google search I found the recipe <a href="http://bakingsheet.blogspot.com/2006/12/margarita-cupcakes.html">here</a>. <br /><br />I ended up making a double recipe, because there were supposed to be 11 people at the dinner and 12 cupcakes for 11 people just seemed wrong. I thought about making 1 1/2 of the recipe (and because there were no eggs, it would have been really easy to do so), but figured that more cupcakes was better than more math. I'm very happy with the decision to double the recipe. <br /><br />The cupcakes were a big success, the perfect grown-up cupcake. The flavor of the lime and tequila came through so well, but it wasn't overpowering at all. While the cupcakes were a little dense, it was more that they were just very moist (which is a good thing in my book), not dense in a bad way. <br /><br />Unfortunately, I didn't get the greatest pictures, but here are a few. I tried to do the rimming with green sugar, but it was really messy. I think it would be better with a coarser sugar instead of the sprinkles I had. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/meganhm/3454894268/" title="Margarita Cupcakes by meganhm, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3595/3454894268_48bfdd0861.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="Margarita Cupcakes" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/meganhm/3454893938/" title="Margarita Cupcakes by meganhm, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3375/3454893938_5fee230e77.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="Margarita Cupcakes" /></a><br /><br />I wanted to find little lime candies, but wasn't able to find them last minute (and on Easter Sunday), so I decided to candy some limes for a little extra decoration. They didn't turn out as pretty (or tasty) as I hoped, but they were a cute addition. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/meganhm/3454080323/" title="Candied Limes by meganhm, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3412/3454080323_c6caffa018.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="Candied Limes" /></a><br /><br />I followed the recipe, but used butter for the frosting. I'm not sure if it was because of that, or something else, but the frosting was not as thick as I would have liked, even after adding more sugar than called for (and it was getting rather sweet). Next time (and there will be a next time, these were so good) I'll try to do something to make the frosting a bit thicker. <br /><br />Really, all I have to say about these is yum. They were just so good. But, if you are looking for other excuses to bake with booze, I also recommend this recipe for <a href="http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/Chocolate-Whiskey-Bundt-Cake-232636">Chocolate Whiskey Bundt Cake</a> which I made last year into a pirate cake pan for my FIL's 60th birthday. The picture is not the greatest, I forgot my camera and and to rely on others. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/meganhm/3491228790/" title="pirate cake by meganhm, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3312/3491228790_2d2bb581f4_o.jpg" width="604" height="453" alt="pirate cake" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27393300.post-62845898053456604402009-03-16T15:41:00.004-10:002009-03-16T16:20:51.894-10:00Excursions in Stash BustingI'm really trying to knit only from my stash. It helps with the wallet and helps with the space issues in the apartment. But, one of the side effects is that I they buy patterns to work with stash yarn. <br /><br />I've been spending a lot of time looking at the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/people/lilikoiknits/stash?view=thumbnail">photos of my stash on Ravelry</a>, trying to find inspiration. A lot of the yarns that haunt me are variegated yarns I bought, but now can't find something to make them into. Some were bought we I first started knitting, but for many there just isn't an excuse. <br /><br />One of these is some <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/people/lilikoiknits/stash/calico">Berocco Calico</a> that I bought at <a href="http://www.stitchesfromtheheart.org/">Stitches from the Heart</a> (okay, maybe my excuse is that it was for <a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/stitches-from-the-heart-santa-monica">charity</a>). I've been searching for something to make with the Calico and I keep coming back to <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/pismo">Pismo</a>. It is one of the few patterns I was able to find which (1) looked good in the yarn, (2) was something I might actually wear, and (3) was something I have enough yarn. <br /><br />I wasn't planning on buying the booklet now, but just wanted to see if it was out there and how much. However, with the assistance of the ever helpful Google, I was able to find it at The Knitting Zone for $2.99 (regular price $6.00). Turns out they are reducing most of <a href="http://www.knittingzone.com/catalog/shipping.php">their inventory to focus on wholesale distribution on Hiya Hiya needles</a>, and their patterns (other than downloads) were all marked down tremendously. <br /><br />I have a hard time passing up sales, and a hard time paying shipping on one small item, so, after some browsing, I was able to find a few more patterns that I "needed." But I was good and resisted the yarn. Over all, I got 6 patterns/booklets/magazines for under $30. The shipping wasn't cheap, at over $11, but still it was a great deal. And the shipping was so fast, I put in my order late Thursday night (Friday for most of the country) and the package arrived today. Here's what I got: <br /><br />FiberTrends: <br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/meganhm/3361827516/" title="Fiber Trends Patterns by meganhm, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3600/3361827516_94f4169ef0_m.jpg" width="240" height="180" alt="Fiber Trends Patterns" /></a><br />http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/felt-bird-houses-222,<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/felted-alpacas--llamas-207x"> Felt Alpacas and Llamas (207)</a>, <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/gotta-get-a-gecko">Gotta get a Gecko (233)</a>, and <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/felt-koala-205x">Felt Koala(205)</a><br /><br />Other:<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/meganhm/3361827872/" title="Patterns by meganhm, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3442/3361827872_b229fbac19_m.jpg" width="240" height="180" alt="Patterns" /></a><br /><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/sources/berroco-241-calico">Berroco Booklet #241</a>, <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/sources/berroco-278-comfort-home">Berroco Booklet #278</a>, <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/sources/rebecca-31">Rebecca #31</a><br /><br /><br />And, just to show that I actually have been doing some knitting, here are the baby socks I just knit. The pattern is the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/little-sky-sock---sky">Little Sky Learning Sock</a> from Cat Bordhi, and I can't wait to try the technique on a sock for me. I used some Cascade Cotton Rich that I had one skein of in my stash (that I think may have come from a swap). It probably wasn't the best yarn for this, as it wasn't very stretchy which made some of the decreases and other techniques a hassle, but it was just sitting there and since the intended baby (no, not mine!) is here in Hawaii, the cotton seemed appropriate. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/meganhm/3361009815/" title="P3160118 by meganhm, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3604/3361009815_bd4f559c6a_m.jpg" width="240" height="180" alt="P3160118" /></a><br /><br />I think I'm going to start the Felted Koala, also using stash yarn, to give with the socks. Hopefully I can get one done by this weekend when the baby shower is.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27393300.post-69410475920802487192009-03-11T12:45:00.005-10:002009-03-16T15:41:27.350-10:00Companion Cube!Last week at Aloha Knitters meeting Kai asked how many of us had knitting blogs, and almost everyone's hand went up. I followed up and asked how many have actually updated in the last few weeks.... significantly less hands in the air. <br /><br />So, here's my little update on my most recent FO: <a href="http://knittedcompanioncube.blogspot.com/">The Knitted Companion Cube</a>. <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/badges/redirect?p=knitted-companion-cube"><img src="http://api.ravelry.com/badges/projects?p=knitted-companion-cube&t=.gif" style="border: none;" /></a><br /><br />For a few weeks last year the husband (who is currently on my shit list, but that's another story) was obsessed with the video game <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Portal_(video_game)">Portal</a>. <br /><br />Now, I've never knit anything for my husband. I keep threatening argyle sweater vests (for some reason, he hates argyle), but living in Hawaii he doesn't really need any of the things he'd actually appreciate (hat/gloves/sweater). So, I was rather excited when I saw a pattern based on one of the elements (characters?) in the game: the Companion Cube. I thought about it for Christmas, but was bogged down in other knitting, and couldn't locally find a light gray wool (I hat the other colors in my stash). But, on our trip to Maui I found a light gray Cascade 220 at Ben Franklin (why they had the color when none of the Oahu ones do is unknown). <br /><br />So, I decided it would be a perfect Valentine's Day gift... a cube for my companion. <br /><br />This was the first time I'd done fair isle with long floats, and I'm not sure if I did them totally right, as the floats show through a bit. Here are a few in-progress shots: <br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/meganhm/3273069386/" title="Companion Cube Progress by meganhm, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3496/3273069386_bd572fc660_m.jpg" width="240" height="180" alt="Companion Cube Progress" /></a><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/meganhm/3273069736/" title="Companion Cube Progress by meganhm, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3408/3273069736_0d116ef5f1_m.jpg" width="240" height="180" alt="Companion Cube Progress" /></a><br /><br />Of course, I was late getting started on it, and started about 10 days before v-day, but I was making good progress despite not being able to work on it while he was home. On the morning of valentines day I had about 5 more rounds to go before finishing the knitting. I was working on getting those done when I snapped the cable of the needle right at the join. Luckily I didn't drop any stitches. And I had another circular in the same size; however, it was shorter and the stitches barely fit which made the knitting very slow. But I got the knitting done, and started the blocking. Unfortunately I didn't get any pictures of the blocking, but I set wrapped it around a <a href="http://www.storables.com/Shop/Laundry/Drying-Racks/?launch_pg=itemPage&launch_sel=1001739">pop-up sweater dryer</a>, pined the edges down and set two fans blowing on it. I left it there for a while and went out to Wal-Mart to buy the foam for inside. <br /><br />Here it is once it was blocked: <br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/meganhm/3283215648/" title="Knitted Companion Cube by meganhm, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3631/3283215648_e57cf3e7f4_m.jpg" width="240" height="180" alt="Knitted Companion Cube" /></a><br />Sorry for the bad lighting, but it was night by this time and I wanted to get a picture of this stage. <br /><br /><br />Next up was the steeking. This was the first time I've ever done steeking, and I feel like this is the one technique knitters can legitimately be afraid of. All other techniques (other than felting) can be undone, you can always frog and start again. But with steeking, once it is cut, there's no going back. So I pulled out the sewing machine, and started. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/meganhm/3282395997/" title="Knitted Companion Cube by meganhm, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3606/3282395997_a9bf3bb4e4.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="Knitted Companion Cube" /></a><br /><br />After I'd sewn the reinforcement, there was nothing left to do but cut. I took a deep breath and cut; I wasn't really afraid it would unravel (the wool was tight and grabby, and the stitching gave extra confidence), but it was still nerve wracking. But I did it, and then suddenly I had transformed a tube of knitting into six squares of knitting. In the rush I missed getting pictures of the sides cut out. <br /><br />Next up was the seaming, which isn't something I have a ton of practice with. I brushed up with a few books and got to work. It was about 9pm now, with the husband due home a little after 10pm. He got home when I had one and a half edges left to seam up, so I had to hide in the bedroom for about 10 minutes to finish.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/meganhm/3283217186/" title="Knitted Companion Cube by meganhm, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3382/3283217186_65b77b6f7a.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="Knitted Companion Cube" /></a><br /><br />Over all, the recipient was very happy, which made it all worthwhile. If I had to do it over again I'm not sure I'd knit all 6 squares in one round; instead I think I'd do the four sides together (skipping the steeking and therefore without knitting the gutters, but maybe a twist slip stitch or something at each edge) and then the top and bottom separate. I though the seams would add some structural integrity, but instead they just add bulk on the inside (especially at the corners) and aren't really that necessary. But hey, I conquered steeks!!! I'm now thinking about using them a lot more because I like cardigans, but don't really like purling.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27393300.post-11312173229772590152009-02-10T23:28:00.010-10:002009-02-20T23:14:49.717-10:00The Exponentially Expanding List of WIPI've lost count of how many new knitting projects I've started since the beginning of the year. But I can quickly tell you how many I've finished: zero! Here are my pathetic excuses: <br /><br />First up was <a href="http://indigomouse.net/?p=82">Arbor</a><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/badges/redirect?p=arbor"><img src="http://api.ravelry.com/badges/projects?p=arbor&t=.gif" style="border: none;" /></a>, which after 20 or so rounds (at 270+ stiches each) I was able to try on and it's way too big. So, that needs to be frogged and re-started at a smaller size. <br /><br />I think the next was a swatch for the <a href="http://shop.interweave.com/store/Minimalist-Cardigan-P323C27.aspx?AFID=12">Minimalist Cardigan</a><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/badges/redirect?p=minimalist-cardigan"><img src="http://api.ravelry.com/badges/projects?p=minimalist-cardigan&t=.gif" style="border: none;" /></a>. I've decided I need smaller needles, and I think I'd prefer using metal needles, so I'm waiting on an order from Knit Picks. But I'm still not sure I have the right yarn for it; I'm trying to use a silk, but I think that a wool/wool blend would be better. I'm also debating if I want try knitting this continental, the advantage of this would be much faster (eventually) with the seed stitch. The disadvantage is that I'm still very slow in continental, and I think my gauge may change as I get better. <br /><br />After setting aside the Minimalist, I decided to try swatching for the <a href="http://shop.interweave.com/store/Dollar-and-a-Half-Cardigan-P344C27.aspx?AFID=12">Dollar and a Half Cardigan</a><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/badges/redirect?p=dollar-and-a-half-cardigan"><img src="http://api.ravelry.com/badges/projects?p=dollar-and-a-half-cardigan&t=.gif" style="border: none;" /></a>. I'm having some issues reading/understanding the pattern, and I was getting frustrated with all these false starts. <br /><br />So, I decided to start a third cardigan attempt. Third time's a charm, right? This time I went with something simple, the <a href="http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&q=garter+yoke+cardigan&btnG=Search">Garter Yoke Cardigan</a> <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/badges/redirect?p=22-garter-yoke-cardigan"><img src="http://api.ravelry.com/badges/projects?p=22-garter-yoke-cardigan&t=.gif" style="border: none;" /></a> from the most recent Knit 1 (I would link to their website, but it is really bad, and there's no way to link to that pattern, or even any thing more than a photo of the pattern, not even the name). I think this might be the first time I've ever started a pattern from the current issue of a magazine, I might even finish this while it is still on the newsstands. I'm using a gorgeous color of Lana D'Oro that has been in my stash for years; I'd tried to use it for a Sunrise Circle Jacket<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/badges/redirect?p=sunrise-circle-jacket"><img src="http://api.ravelry.com/badges/projects?p=sunrise-circle-jacket&t=.gif" style="border: none;" /></a>, but I think this is a much better use for it. <br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/meganhm/3273068968/" title="Garter Yoke Cardigan Progress by meganhm, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3029/3273068968_c7aef5fce2_m.jpg" width="240" height="180" alt="Garter Yoke Cardigan Progress" /></a><br />So far, I'm progressing very well, and I'm almost to the point where I need to increase at the end of the waist shaping (this isn't a current picture). I've made a few modifications (one on purpose, one by slightly mis-reading the pattern a little). It has been just the kind of, power-through it knitting I've needed. I'm really looking forward to the sleeves, however, because I my wrists and all the purling aren't getting along great. <br /><br />But, despite the progress I'm making, I've set it aside for yet another project because there is a deadline to this one. I'm not going to reveal details yet, just a WIP photo, but hopefully this will be done in time to gift it to the husband for valentines day. This will be the first thing I've ever knit him, and it will also involve a technique I've never used before. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/meganhm/3273069386/" title="Companion Cube Progress by meganhm, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3496/3273069386_bd572fc660_m.jpg" width="240" height="180" alt="Companion Cube Progress" /></a><br /><br />While I'm not knitting it in front of him, it has been sitting on our couch for the last week, he hasn't once asked about it. But I'm chugging along, and about 2/3 of the way done with the knitting. Considering it took me 3 days to get this far, I think I can have it done by v-day; it may still be a little wet, but hopefully it will be done!<br /><br /><br />PS- I decided to check my projects page on Ravelry, just to make sure I hadn't forgotten any other projects I might have started this year. Yep, there was one. One that might get it's own post someday if it ever grows up into a full-fledged, wearable item.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27393300.post-35939507629595444842009-01-18T15:45:00.002-10:002009-01-18T16:45:54.557-10:00Gift-Mas Recap.... Better late than neverI did an amazing thing this year, and actually had all my Christmas gifts finished on time. In the last few weeks I did scrap one or two projects, but everyone who I planned to give a knitted gift to got at least one. <br /><br /><u><b>Center Squares</b></u><br />I made five of these hats. First up were a trio of Center Square hats for my mother-in-law and two youngest sister-in-laws (age 9 and 14). I also made two more for a husband and wife. <br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/meganhm/3098999972/" title="Center Sqaures by meganhm, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3193/3098999972_26647ce19f_m.jpg" alt="Center Sqaures" width="240" height="180" /></a> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/meganhm/3155628642/" title="Center Squares for the Beppus by meganhm, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3091/3155628642_0070a1f7e2_m.jpg" alt="Center Squares for the Beppus" width="240" height="180" /></a><br /><b>Pattern:</b> Center Square<br /><b>Yarn:</b> Cascade 220 Superwash; each hat used less than 1/2 of the ball of each color. <br /><b>Notes:</b> These are really quick, about 3 hours each. I really like the pattern, and it was my first attempt at color work. Very fast and fun. I highly recomend it as an introduction to fair isle knitting. I did a bit more ribbing than called for in the pattern and changed the decreases, making a rounder top with the spiral decreases. The small one (purple and teal is) the same amount of stitches, but I used spiral needles. Also, as others have noted, this yarn grow a lot when washed, though it seemed to shrink back mostly if dried in the dryer.<br /><br /><u><b>Pony Tail Hat</b></u><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/meganhm/3155651314/" title="Modified Hannah Hat by meganhm, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3257/3155651314_c98db5c32d_m.jpg" alt="Modified Hannah Hat" width="240" height="180" /></a><span style="text-decoration: underline;"></span><br /><b>Pattern:</b> This is mostly the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/hannah-4">Hannah Hat</a>, but, inspired by the <a href="http://racheliufer.blogspot.com/2007/10/robins-egg-blue-hat.html">Robin's Egg Blue Hat</a> I made the border in seed stitch and only used one button. <br /><b>Yarn:</b> Noro Kochoran, less than one ball.<br /><b>Recipient</b>: Oldest Sister-in-law<br /><b>Notes:</b> Fun pattern and idea. The yarn is really fuzzy and I'd end up covered in the fuzz. This would have been quick, but it took a few attempts to work out the gauge issues and figure out the decreases.<br /><br /><u><b>Pirate Captain</b></u><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/meganhm/3155628066/" title="Pirate Captain by meganhm, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3081/3155628066_1ccbc76a73_m.jpg" alt="Pirate Captain" width="180" height="240" /></a><br /><b>Pattern:</b> <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/hand-knit-pirate-captain-doll">Pirate Captain Doll</a> (<a href="http://www.jlwiemelt.blogspot.com/">non-ravelry link)</a><br /><b>Yarn:</b> Cascade 220 Wool and Elann Highland Wool (shirt)<br /><b>Notes:</b> I'm not sure if I'm really done with this. I'd like to get better fabric (instead of the ribbon shown in the picture), and I bought more beads but then couldn't find them in the mess of my apartment. The pattern directions weren't always clear on how to do the finishing sewing, but I was able to figure it out and I'm pretty happy with the results. <br /><br /><br /><u><b>Stow-Away Shopping Bag</b></u><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/meganhm/3120355422/" title="Stow-Away Shopping Bag by meganhm, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3223/3120355422_bab030ce61_m.jpg" alt="Stow-Away Shopping Bag" width="180" height="240" /></a> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/meganhm/3120355628/" title="Stow-Away Shopping Bag by meganhm, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3255/3120355628_461590f9e3_m.jpg" alt="Stow-Away Shopping Bag" width="240" height="180" /></a><br /><b>Pattern:</b> <a href="http://oatcouture.com/patternpages/306StowAway.html">Stow-Away Shopping Bag, Out Couture AC 306</a>, purchased at Isle Knits.<br /><b>Yarn:</b> Bernat Handicrafter Cotton (turquoise), Lily Sugar and Creme (ombre and orange)<br /><b>Notes:</b> I made this a little longer than the pattern called for and made the straps thicker, and I think that made it a bit tight in the pocket. This was an easy pattern, and one I'll be using again. I might hold the yarn doubled next time for the pocket/bottom of the bag to create a more solid fabric. <br /><br /><u><b>Mitered Mittens</b></u><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/meganhm/3119527463/" title="Mitered Mittens by meganhm, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3216/3119527463_b25be7fd0b_m.jpg" alt="Mitered Mittens" width="240" height="180" /></a><br /><b>Pattern:</b> <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/mitered-mittens-may">Mitered Mittens (May)</a> by Elizabeth Zimmermann<br /><b>Yarn:</b><br />Nashua Handknits Wooly Stripes, just over 2 balls (I could have used just the two, but I broke into the third to match the stripes on the thumbs. <br /><b>Notes:</b> I've recently become a bit enamored with mittens. Unfortunately, I don't really have a place to wear them, so these were a gift for my sister. Like many others I modifeed the thumb construction based on the instructions <a href="http://kathrynivy.com/news/180/52/">here</a>. Other modifications were 7 rounds of 2x1 ribbing on the cuff and I didn't decrease to a point at the end, instead decreased down to about 10 stitches and then Kitchenered them together. <br /><br /><u><b>Sheep!</b></u><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/meganhm/3120356642/" title="Felted Flock by meganhm, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3126/3120356642_a38f4d31a2_m.jpg" alt="Felted Flock" width="240" height="180" /></a><u></u><br /><b>Pattern:</b> <a href="http://www.fibertrends.com/viewer/patterns/206.html">A Felt Flock by Bev Galeskas (Fiber Trends)</a><br /><b>Yarn:</b> Elann Highland Wool<br /><b>Notes:</b> For the bigger one I held the yarn double, the smaller one was just a single stand of yarn. These are so fun, just the like the Hedgehog and the slippers the shaping is done with shortrows. I needle felted on the eyes. <br /><br /><br /><u><b>Monkeys for Mom</b></u><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/meganhm/3119526695/" title="Monkeys Socks by meganhm, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3093/3119526695_8d5a6f43a4_m.jpg" alt="Monkeys Socks" width="240" height="180" /></a><br /><b>Pattern:</b> <a href="http://www.knitty.com/ISSUEwinter06/PATTmonkey.html">Monkey Socks</a><br /><b>Yarn:</b> Koigu KPPM<br /><b>Notes:</b> The infamous Monkey pattern, I think everything to be said about the pattern has already been said. I'll be making more of these, maybe a no purl version. <br /><br />Last, but not least, <b><u>Felted Clogs</b></u><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/meganhm/3120357144/" title="Slippers by meganhm, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3112/3120357144_c4cc6ba235_m.jpg" alt="Slippers" width="240" height="180" /></a><br /><b>Pattern:</b> <a href="http://www.fibertrends.com/viewer/patterns/AC33x.html">Felted Clogs (AC-33) by Bev Galeskas </a><br /><b>Yarn:</b> Patons Classic Wool<br /><b>Notes:</b> Officially the longest UFO ever. These were supposed to be a gift for my mother for Christmas 2004 (or maybe 2003). No, that is not a typo. I knit one pair for my mom and one for my dad. The knitting and felting was done on time, but I had the hardest time sewing on the sole. I finally got my dad the pair for him a few months before he passed away, but the pair for my mother had languished. I'm so happy to have finally finished these.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27393300.post-16682586444138264912008-12-13T17:23:00.003-10:002008-12-13T17:26:13.499-10:00Holiday Craft - Home Decor<span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />A few quick ideas in case your home needs some holiday cheer</span><br /><a href="http://belladia.typepad.com/bella_dia/2007/12/advent-day-22-t.html">Miniature Felted Wreaths</a><br /><a href="http://belladia.typepad.com/bella_dia/2007/12/little-miss-pin.html">Little Miss Pine Cones Go Skiing</a> (more information <a href="http://belladia.typepad.com/bella_dia/2008/11/bhg-holiday-cra.html">here</a>)<br /><a href="http://belladia.typepad.com/bella_dia/2007/12/advent-day-18-t.html"><br />Winter Display Globes</a><br /><a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/article/mini-stockings?autonomy_kw=advent%20calendar&rsc=header_8">Mini Stockings</a> (perfect for an Advent Calendar)<br /><a href="http://kiddley.com/2006/12/19/gumdrop-wreath/">Gum Drop Wreath </a>(probably not the best for Hawaii)<br /><a href="http://howaboutorange.blogspot.com/2006/12/stockings.html">Stockings </a> (with link to free pattern from McCall's)(I just bought some fabric to make these, hopefully there will be pictures soon)<br /><a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/good-things/paper-star?autonomy_kw=paper%20star&rsc=header_3">Paper Star</a><br /><a href="http://howaboutorange.blogspot.com/2007/12/paper-3-d-holiday-ornament-tutorials.html">Paper Snowflakes and more</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27393300.post-27666934527187938782008-12-10T13:38:00.003-10:002008-12-10T13:56:52.179-10:00Crrraaackkkk!Last night I decided to frog a WIP, after realizing it was too small for the intended recipient. One of my circulars fell on the floor, and I diligently picked it up and set it on the couch, thinking it would be safer there. As you can guess from this set up, I was wrong. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/meganhm/3099196424/" title="Crack by meganhm, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3019/3099196424_2fb480a0ed_m.jpg" width="240" height="180" alt="Crack" /></a><br /><br />While winding the yarn I managed to plop my foot on top of the needle while it was on the couch, and it snapped. The most frustrating part is that, if I'd stepped on it while it was still on the marble floor, it probably wouldn't have broken because it wouldn't have bent at all. That's what I get for picking things up. ;) <br /><br />It is (was?) a Knit Picks Harmony needle in size 2.25mm, and I know there have been a few problems with these breaking during use, but this was not normal use and not anything I'd expect any wood needle that small to withstand. People on Ravelry who've had them break during use have been able to get replacements from KP, but I'm not even going to ask because this was totally my fault. Plus, I'd been a bit frustrated that the needles were a little more grabby than I wanted, so I'm going to switch to metal. <br /><br />I'm placing another order from Knit Pics for the metal needles, but in the mean time, these socks are on hold until the needles come in. With this delay I'm not sure if I'll be able to finish these in time for Christmas. However, in the mean time, I'm trying to finish up the rest of my Christmas knitting. Most of it is almost done, with just a but of finishing. No details yet, as I don't want to spoil anyone's surprise, but here is a picture of all the gifts in my knitting basket. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/meganhm/3099196722/" title="Gift-mas Knitting by meganhm, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3013/3099196722_3a84dfb6f0_m.jpg" width="240" height="180" alt="Gift-mas Knitting" /></a><br /><br />Oh, and the new <a href="http://knitty.com/ISSUEwinter08/index.php">Knitty </a>is up. I haven't had time to look at all the patterns, but the cover shot is gorgeous.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27393300.post-18395473511626310182008-12-05T16:38:00.000-10:002008-12-13T17:27:09.879-10:00Holiday Crafts - Ornaments and Such<span style="font-weight:bold;">Ornaments & Other Decorations to Hang</span><br /><a href="http://belladia.typepad.com/bella_dia/2007/12/advent-day-4-th.html">Tissue Paper Silhouettes Ornaments </a><br /><a href="http://belladia.typepad.com/bella_dia/2007/12/advent-day-20-o.html">Glittery Foil Icicles</a><br /><a href="http://belladia.typepad.com/bella_dia/2007/12/advent-day-14-p.html">Dove Ornament</a><br /><a href="http://belladia.typepad.com/bella_dia/2007/12/advent-day-10-s.html"><br />Mini Tree Bunting</a><br /><a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/how-to/cinnamon-bird-ornaments?lnc=bf89cf380e1dd010VgnVCM1000005b09a00aRCRD&pgType=intro&rsc=howTo_tab_intro#menu_container">Cinnamon Bird Ornaments<br /></a> (I think I'd be too afraid that, here in Hawaii, these would attract bugs, though ants do hate cinnamon)<br /><a href="http://blog.craftzine.com/archive/2008/11/woven_wheat_ornaments.html">Woven Wheat Ornaments</a><br /><a href="http://kiddley.com/2006/12/15/christmas-pinatas/">Christmas Pinatas</a><br /><a href="http://howaboutorange.blogspot.com/2006/12/candy-ornaments.html">Candy Ornaments </a>(not real candy, a perfect use for those scraps of fabric)<br /><a href="http://howaboutorange.blogspot.com/2007/12/craft-project-retro-ornaments-from-foam.html">Retro Ornaments from Foam</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27393300.post-35526894433162836332008-11-20T16:35:00.008-10:002008-11-20T17:48:49.447-10:00Holiday Crafts - TreesDespite the lack of blogging, there has been a lot of knitting going on. However, it has all been holiday related, and as the intended recipients may be reading this, the it will have to remain secret for a while longer. So, in the mean time, I thought I'd share a few holiday themed crafts I've found on my travels through the internet. I may even attempt some of these! I'm starting with some trees, check back to see more. <br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Trees</span><br /><a href="http://belladia.typepad.com/bella_dia/2005/12/stuffed_christm.html">Stuffed Christmas Trees</a><br /><a href="http://belladia.typepad.com/bella_dia/2007/12/advent-day-8-ho.html">Tinsel Trees</a><a href="http://blairpeter.typepad.com/weblog/2008/11/tomorrowland-ho.html"><br />Tomorrow Land Trees</a><br /><a href="http://www.monster-yarn.com/fun-fur-xmas-tree-pattern.html">Fun Fur Kitschmas Tree </a><br /><a href="http://blog.betzwhite.com/2008/11/to-keep-you-busy.html">Felted Rosette Tree </a>(and wreath)<br /><a href="http://twostraightlines.typepad.com/two_straight_lines/2006/12/soft_trees_to_g.html">Soft Trees</a><br /><a href="http://www.hp.com/canada/portal/hho/holiday/tree_printout.html?jumpid=ng-nov06-projec">Holiday Print Out Tree</a><br /><a href="http://howaboutorange.blogspot.com/2007/11/different-kind-of-christmas-tree.html">A Different Kind of Tree</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27393300.post-67200968856698065792008-10-20T23:40:00.005-10:002008-10-21T00:15:24.653-10:00Nom nom nom!Do you ever have those things that seem to be following you? You know, the things that just keep popping up allover the place? For the last few weeks it has been Chicken and Waffles. First it was an episode of <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/throwdown-with-bobby-flay/chicken-and-waffles/index.html">Throwdown</a>, then there was some chatter on Ravelry, and then last night it showed up on <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/iron-chef-america/cora-vs-smith/index.html">Iron Chef America</a>. <br /><br />So, what's a girl to do...? If I still lived in L.A. the easy answer would be a trip to <a href="http://www.roscoeschickenandwaffles.com/">Roscoe</a>'s. But I don't, so alternatives were considered. Given my abundance of free time, I figured the best option was to make some myself. Other than buttermilk, we had all the necessary ingredients, and even a wedding-gift waffle maker that we'd never used. One of my sister in laws comes over every Monday for dinner and Heros, so I figured that would be as good a day as any. <br /><br />I used <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/alton-brown/fried-chicken-recipe/index.html">Alton Brown's recipe for the chicken</a> (though I only marinated it in the buttermilk for about 4 hours), and <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/emeril-lagasse/fried-chicken-and-buttermilk-waffles-recipe/index.html">the waffles from this recipe</a>. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/meganhm/2961297880/" title="Chicken and Waffles by meganhm, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3271/2961297880_f89907426c_m.jpg" width="240" height="180" alt="Chicken and Waffles" /></a><br /><br />Overall, the chicken was very good, especially considering I've never made it before. The waffle was decent when I took it out of the iron, but I was having some timing issues and it wasn't nearly as good by the time it made it to the table; I couldn't find the manual for the waffle iron, but I think next time I need to turn it up a bit. I probably should have also turned to<a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/alton-brown/basic-waffle-recipe/index.html"> AB for the waffle recipe</a>, and then I could have even been able to use my new kitchen scale, and it calls for whole wheat flour so might have been able to delude myself into thinking it was somewhat healthy. <br /><br /><br />In other, much healthier food news, my latest food addiction is <a href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&ct=res&cd=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fen.wikipedia.org%2Fwiki%2FQuinoa&ei=kKn9SM-IG6GksQOHnZUy&usg=AFQjCNHLnY4huVwuYixWNuXDVMi7fMuOMQ&sig2=zLlZ3fb2kHCKuR-w9rj9Tg">quinoa</a>. I've tried a few recipes, but my favorite is a tabbouleh-esque salad. <br /><br />The quinoacooks pretty quickly, and while it's cooking I chop some veggies. Usually it's either cucumbers or celery, tomatoes, flat leaf parsley, scallions. <br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/meganhm/2961297290/" title="PA171450 by meganhm, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3007/2961297290_4d0e0267cc_m.jpg" width="240" height="180" alt="PA171450" /></a><br /><br />Once the quinoa is cooked, it gets mixed with the veggies, along with some salt and pepper. I then like to let it cool a bit, and mix in some feta cheese. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/meganhm/2961332214/" title="PA171454 by meganhm, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3182/2961332214_b35c08aee6_m.jpg" width="240" height="180" alt="PA171454" /></a><br />(Sorry, this isn't the best picture)<br /><br />I've been seriously eating this at least once a week for the past month or so. Easy, quick, yummy and healthy. Hard to go wrong with that combination.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27393300.post-6527290640381916072008-10-10T21:09:00.002-10:002008-10-10T21:10:00.120-10:00I can haz funny?<a href="http://ihasahotdog.com/2008/10/09/funny-dog-pictures-knitting-look-so-easy/"><img class="mine_1925187" title="funny-dog-pictures-knitting-look-so-easy" src="http://ihasahotdog.wordpress.com/files/2008/10/funny-dog-pictures-knitting-look-so-easy.jpg" alt="dog" /></a><br />see more <a href="http://ihasahotdog.com">puppies</a><br /><br />Actually, my place has looked quite a bit like that with all the frogging that has been going on.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27393300.post-52849201392369907862008-10-07T11:18:00.011-10:002008-10-07T13:40:16.405-10:00It's Soktober... Do you know where your DPNs are?<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/meganhm/2922275055/" title="Pumpkins by meganhm, on Flickr"><img style="float: left;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3120/2922275055_ce16af9923_m.jpg" alt="Pumpkins" width="240" height="180" /></a>First Off, a bit of fall fun with these <a href="http://www.knitty.com/issuefall05/PATTpumpkins.html">Felted Pumpkins</a>. Overall a fun, quick knit. I knit them in the round avoid seaming and purling. The lighter yarn is some yarn I dyed a while back with Koolaide.<br /><br /><br /><br />Now, on to Soktober. It all started well and I finished my <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/jaywalker">Jaywalkers</a>. The second one seems a bit tighter than the first, but hopefully it will loosen up with some time on the blockers. I really enjoyed the pattern, very easy to work on and remember and the results look great, especially given how easy the pattern is.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/meganhm/2923126118/" title="Jaywalkers by meganhm, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3016/2923126118_e8d7e62f8b_m.jpg" alt="Jaywalkers" width="180" height="240" /></a> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/meganhm/2923125942/" title="Second Jaywalker Heel by meganhm, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3182/2923125942_cf47c7ae11_m.jpg" alt="Second Jaywalker Heel" width="240" height="180" /></a><br /><br />I used <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/yarns/library/schachenmayr-nomotta-regia-strato-color">Regia Strato Color</a>, and it wasn't exactly my favorite yarn. I liked the color, and it looks great knit up, but there were some random stripes of a maroon/burgundy color which just didn't really seem to fit in with the other colors. I think the yarn will produce a comfortable, long wearing sock. However, it really irritated my index finger as the yarn coming from the ball crossed over it; at one point the skin on that finger was peeling from the irritation. I don't think it was an allergy, but more that the yarn is a bit rough and just the constant rubbing was bothering the skin.<br /><br /><br /><br />So, the Jaywalker's finished, I moved on to some Giftmas sock knitting. I have two lovely colors of Koigu KPPM destined for gifts, but I wasn't sure on the patterns. I finally decided on Monkey Socks for one of the colors. And that's where the problem<span style="font-weight: bold;">s</span> started. I really hope I haven't caught <a href="http://theknittedbrow.blogspot.com/">kbrow</a>'s Koigu curse. First problem was that somehow, about half way through the cuff I must have switched directions. With normal 1x1 ribbing this would have been nearly unnoticeable, but with the twisted rib it was noticeable because the twist showed up only on the top or bottom half depending on if you were looking at the inside or the outside. Knowing full well that this is one of those things only knitters would notice, I almost let it go. But since I wasn't that far into the sock (and I'd also accidentally started knitting from the outside of the yarn), I figured I'd just restart.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/meganhm/2923131722/" title="Failed Monkeys by meganhm, on Flickr"><img style="float: right;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3103/2923131722_0b533486c5_m.jpg" alt="Failed Monkeys" width="180" height="240" /></a> So, I started again, still keeping with the bamboo size 1s (2.25 mm). I did the ribbing, and the first pattern repeat. About half way through the second repeat I was starting to get very frustrated with the blunt tips on the needles and how bendy they were. So I decided to switch to some of my<a href="http://www.knitpicks.com/6+Nickel+Plated+Double+Pointed+Knitting+Needles_NDkpdpn.html"> Knit Picks Nickle Plated DPNs. </a> Somehow, I then decided to use the 0s 2.0 mm). I don't really remember how I decided to go down a size, but I think it was because the metal 1s I had were actually 2.5 mm needles (silly Americans and their reluctance to use the metric system).<br /><br />All I can really tell you is that it was a bad decision. I finished the rest of the leg, and got partway down the heel gusset before I decided to try them on. Now, these are destined for gifts, and the intended recipient has smaller sized feet that me, and much smaller ankles and calves, but they are just way too small, the calf part is extremely tight around my foot and there's no way they'd fit over the heel.<br /><br />So, now it just sits there, taunting me. I know I need to rip it out and start <span style="font-style: italic;">again</span>, but I just can't bring myself to do so. it is just so pretty, I'm loving the colorway and the pattern, but there's no way they are going to work. Yesterday was the first day in weeks that I haven't knit at all.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27393300.post-6024934510416249272008-09-10T19:20:00.004-10:002008-09-10T20:01:45.671-10:00Sock Progress...I'm back from my trip, and there was a lot of shopping, but not much yarn (and it was all sock yarn, that's not stash, right...?). However, I've made up for that since then with a trip to Isle Knits and an order on Elann.com. I think this might be the first yarn I've purchased in at least a year and a half. Though I may have bought something last year to finish a specific Christmas present.<br /><br />Most of the rest of my trip was rather relaxing, which meant lots of time to knit. On the flight I had cast on for the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/circle-socks">Circle Socks</a>, but, as previously alluded to I wasn't happy with yarn/pattern combination.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/meganhm/2791968394/" title="Circle Socks by meganhm, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3210/2791968394_36cf74dcab_m.jpg" alt="Circle Socks" width="240" height="180" /></a><br />I just don't really like how there are stripes within the circles. I love the pattern (other than all the purling on small needles), but it needs a more solid yarn or one where the stripes are wider.<br /><br />So, that was ripped, and I switched to the ever-popular <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/jaywalker">Jaywalkers</a>. This seems to be the perfect pattern for the socks.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/meganhm/2847457346/" title="First Jaywalker by meganhm, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3076/2847457346_d54feb747c_m.jpg" alt="First Jaywalker" width="240" height="180" /></a><br />I managed to finish the first one while in Washington, other that the Kitchnering the end, which I wanted to wait to get home to do. I knit the suggested length, but I kinda wish they weren't so long. I could rip out a few inches at the top, pickup the stitches and knit the cuff like a toe-up sock, but I'm having a bit of indescision about that. So, while I try to make up my mind, I've stalled a little on the second until I figure out how long to make it.<br /><br />The first:<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/meganhm/2847456854/" title="First Jaywalker by meganhm, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3249/2847456854_543fdb60cc_m.jpg" alt="First Jaywalker" width="240" height="180" /></a><br /><br />Second, in progress:<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/meganhm/2846624475/" title="Second Jaywalker, WIP by meganhm, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3292/2846624475_0b3835ec7b_m.jpg" alt="Second Jaywalker, WIP" width="240" height="180" /></a><br /><br />I do have a few other things going on, and I'm trying to figure out what to do next. What I'd like to do is knit a top for myself, but I should work on Christmas knitting. I'm hoping to get a pair (or two) of socks done and a few felted items, so I should get working on it.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27393300.post-27647512903317005332008-08-16T23:00:00.003-10:002008-08-16T23:57:18.787-10:00Los Angeles Food Report and a Few Random FOsDue to my new found (and hopefully relatively short-lived) freedom from the confines of a J.O.B. I decided to make a little trek back California and up to the Portland area. I was having a hard time planning the logistics of the trip because I was trying to coordinate with a variety of other people's schedules, but I bought a ticket on Tuesday and left the next morning (using miles which meant not paying crazy amounts of a last minute ticket). I don't actually have a ticket back yet, but I promise I'll be back. <br /><br />I'm in Los Angeles now, and wow, I missed this town. Thanks to my <a href="http://joiestudio.blogspot.com/">wonderful host</a>, In the first 36 hours of being here I manged to get three of the top 5 or so (food) things I've missed. First it was <a href="http://www.casabiancapizza.com/">Casa Bianaca</a> for pizza (mmm... sausage). Then <a href="http://www.dintaifungusa.com/">Din Tai Fung</a> (at the fancy new location) the next day for dinner, oh how I've missed those <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Xiaolongbao">little baby dumplings</a>! And <a href="http:///">Pinkberry</a>, can't forget the Pinkberry (I tried the "seasonal" lychee topping, which was okay, but I think I'll stick to mochi puffs, kiwi and raspberry (or sometimes mango). <br /><br />Tonight I met up with my two foodie law school friends and we had dinner at Father's Office (yummy burger and sweet potato fries but it was really hot and loud inside). Then we headed to <a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/scoops-los-angeles">Scoops </a>for dessert; I think I'm in love. After sampling a ton of flavors I had Lychee Jasmin (which was vegan, but very creamy)and Pineapple Hibiscus. Other flavors were Raspberry Balsamic (yummy, but not sure what to mix it with), Salty Chocolate, Salty White Chocolate, Chocolate Jasmin, Maple Oreo, Basil Ricotta, Kola Nut, Coconut Cardamon, Brown Bread (vanilla with grapenuts), Raspberry Orangewater, and so many more (the flavors change everyday). I think I'm in love (whoops, did I say that already).<br /><br />Food aside, since this is ostensibly a knitting blog, I'll post a few of the FOs I've managed to pull together in the last few weeks. Other than the socks, nothing very noteworthy, but here they are:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/meganhm/2755399705/" title="Embossed Leaves Socks by meganhm, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3216/2755399705_46a14078a0_m.jpg" alt="Embossed Leaves Socks" width="240" height="180" /></a><br /><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/lilikoiknits/embossed-leaves">Embossed Leaves</a> (aka, My First Socks)<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/meganhm/2755398281/" title="Reverse Bloom Washcloth by meganhm, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3219/2755398281_071f8b670d_m.jpg" alt="Reverse Bloom Washcloth" width="240" height="180" /></a><br /><a href="http:///">Reverse Bloom</a> (This was knitted years ago, but somehow I never wove in the ends. I actually though I wasn't finished with the knitting, but when I pulled this out to finish it last week it turned the weaving in was all that was left.)<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/meganhm/2755397987/" title="Ball Band Dishcloth by meganhm, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3241/2755397987_f00b8ffa56_m.jpg" alt="Ball Band Dishcloth" width="240" height="180" /></a><br /><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/lilikoiknits/ballband-dishcloth">Ball Band Dish Cloth</a> (A quick knit when I was waiting for Knitting Olympics (that I didn't end up doing)).<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/meganhm/2756230968/" title="Fishy!! by meganhm, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3147/2756230968_4e14f344ce_m.jpg" alt="Fishy!!" width="240" height="180" /></a><br /><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/lilikoiknits/felted-fish">Fishy!</a> (The knitting has been done for months, but he needed guts and eyes.)<br /><br /><br />I've also got a few new things on the needles, but I'm not sure about the either's chance for survival, but that's for another post.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27393300.post-29262621205916469422008-08-08T16:15:00.001-10:002008-08-10T14:13:41.485-10:00Just a little bit of fun!<a href="http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=158+West+23rd+St.,+New+York,+New+York+10011,+United+States+&sll=37.0625,-95.677068&sspn=47.972233,79.101563&ie=UTF8&ll=40.749126,-73.993177&spn=0.011282,0.027466&z=16&layer=c&cbll=40.743463,-73.994142&panoid=q3zI-rm9t5u0l9qa2uz2yA&cbp=2,37.200349451194654,,0,10.649844351150348">Found him!</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27393300.post-38611668665772022182008-08-06T11:15:00.000-10:002008-08-06T11:16:54.629-10:00Noodle Knit<object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/VNl8MMAr0lM&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/VNl8MMAr0lM&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" wmode="transparent" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />From <a href="http://scentofgreenbananas.blogspot.com">The Scent on Green Bananas</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27393300.post-65010427723892714022008-08-05T12:17:00.002-10:002008-08-05T12:20:54.500-10:00CookiesSo far I'm enjoying my little freedom. I haven't done any knitting yet, but am going to try to swatch for the Diagonal stitch Top later today. I did bake some cookies (oatmeal cranberry) this weekend, but I think I've lost my baking skills, they just weren't that good. We ended up not baking the rest and just eating the dough, which was much better than the finished product. So, no photos, but I thought I'd share this video. <br /><br /><embed FlashVars='videoId=174545' src='http://www.comedycentral.com/sitewide/video_player/view/default/swf.jhtml' quality='high' bgcolor='#cccccc' width='332' height='316' name='comedy_central_player' align='middle' allowScriptAccess='always' allownetworking='external' type='application/x-shockwave-flash' pluginspage='http://www.macromedia.com/go/getflashplayer'></embed><br /><br />I've been reading food blogs like crazy and saving a ton of recipes. I've really missed cooking, so I'm trying to get back into it more. I want to tackle pie and making some cheese.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27393300.post-58966169715742102882008-07-27T18:39:00.003-10:002008-07-27T19:08:59.081-10:00Moving on...My first pair of socks is officially finished! And I managed to make it in under the two year mark. No pictures yet because I didn't have time to get pictures during the good light, but I'll try to get some soon. <br /><br />In other news (that I think most of the few readers I have already know), I recently resigned from my job. I don't have a new one lined up yet, but this means that I should have plenty of free time to participate in the Knitting Olympics. Now that I've finished the socks, I'm trying to think of what project I want to tackle. I think a whole sweater is a bit ambitious, and I'd like to do something other than socks, so I'm thinking a sleeveless or short-sleeve top. Right now, these are my top contenders: <br /><br /><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/diagonal-stitch-top---7">Diagonal Stitch Top</a> is probably at the top of the list right now. <br /><br />A <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/knitchick2/short-sleeve-top-5">sleeve-less version</a> on the (rather boringly named) "Short Sleeve Top #5 from Vogue Knitting Summer/Spring 2005 is also a top contender. <br /><br />The next possibility is the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/flower-back-sweater-pattern-p06152">Flower Back Sweater</a> (I think I'd do the high back version).<br /><br />Another possibility is <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/rusted-root">Rusted Root</a>, but I actually think I like it better in the long sleeve versions. If I do a short-sleeved one I think I'll do the <a href="http://goodkarmago.blogspot.com/search/label/Rusted%20Root">modified neck</a> as the really high neck usually isn't very flattering on me. <br /><br />I'd love to knit <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/coral-2">Coral</a>, but I don't think there's an English version of the pattern out there yet and I don't know anyone who speaks Danish. <br /><br />I hopefully I'll be able to knit from my stash (the whole no job thing and all), so that may dictate which one of these gets made. I need to do some looking and some swatches.<br /><br />Anyone else planning to participate in the Knitting Olympics? What are you planning on knitting?Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27393300.post-60570862247417185092008-06-08T12:48:00.002-10:002008-06-08T13:05:10.944-10:00Lilikoi.... in the yummy formI picked up this lilikoi fruit in my walk around the neighborhood yesterday. I wasn't sure if it would be ripe, but it was amazingly sweet (for a lilikoi that is). I didn't take my camera with me, so no pictures of the vines and flowers, just the fruit for breakfast this morning.<br /><br /><br />Just cut<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/meganhm/2562004837/" title="Lilikoi by meganhm, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3093/2562004837_97ccd0878a.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="Lilikoi" /></a><br /><br />Digging in<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/meganhm/2562831820/" title="Lilikoi by meganhm, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3057/2562831820_eba0b25967.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="Lilikoi" /></a><br /><br /><br />All <a href="http://www.e-hawaii.com/fun/pidgin/showTerm.asp?letter=P">pau</a><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/meganhm/2562006135/" title="Empty Lilikoi Shells by meganhm, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3144/2562006135_f251f8d349.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="Empty Lilikoi Shells" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br />Alas, no knitting to report. Stopped by Aloha Knitters on Thursday for a few minutes to say hi on my way to pick up food; it was great to see so many people. Welcome back!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2