Goldthorn Girl

Bantock Weekend

2010-09-07T11:19:00.005+01:00

We had another successful 1940s event at Bantock house this past weekend. I had a stand demonstrating 1940's knitting and displayed various 1940s items, including my mother's wedding dress. The sock knitting fascinates most people.

I included these...........

knitted from a 1940's pattern in this Murray and Koster book.

The original pattern was knitted in silk, but I used a very soft Patons Dreamtime baby wool. Even so, everyone agreed that they wouldn't fancy wearing them!

The highlight of the show was a mockup of a Battle of Britain RAF operations room with alerts every hour or so when every one sprang into action. Sorry, no pics as they are in my phone and my Bluetooth is refusing to work.

Blight

2010-08-01T09:57:00.002+01:00

Sadly my tomatoes have succumbed to the dreaded blight, probably due to the damp mild weather we've been having recently. I'm trying to rescue the larger fruit in the hope that they will ripen indoors. They were growing so well too, and had the best of care, watered, fed and supported. Ah well, there is always next year.

Progress

2010-07-19T16:36:00.005+01:00

I'm pleased to say that my wrist is better and I'm back to my usual knitting speed. I've started a raglan V-neck for Steven. I used a generic Patons pattern, which was rather boring stocking stitch, so I'm doing the main part in a garter stich rib with the sleeves in stocking stitch. I've also changed the raglan shaping.

This is progress so far.

The yarn is Rowan Extra Fine Merino DK.

In the garden the 'Marmande' tomatoes are plumping up nicely. The hot June got them off to a good start, although things have cooled down now, but they have another couple of months to ripen.

Ouch!

2010-07-03T10:30:00.006+01:00

I didn't realise I hadn't Blogged since April, time just seems to slip away.

Knitting is slow at the moment due to this

I foolishly managed to trip and fall over Steven's sling and sprained my wrist, luckily nothing was broken but it has been very painful and incapacitating for two weeks. The worst thing, of course, was difficulty knitting. I had a SANDS blanket half made and progress has continued now the pain is easing. It has a lace edging which was designed to be made separately and stitched on but I'm joining it as I go along, saves all that stitching up afterwards. Also the pattern has a mistake as the last two rows of the edging are reversed.

Mum has settled into her care home and is getting back to her old self although she still isn't very mobile. She is confident in using the lift on her own now, so can go up and down to her room when she wants and has been spending time in the garden as the weather has been glorious.

My garden is very neglected although I do have someone to cut the lawn. I'm also growing tomatoes in a grow bag and these seem to be doing well.

Steven is well at the moment although we have an appointment with a consultant at the end of the month as his breathing is not good at night.

Quick update

2010-04-20T10:26:00.003+01:00

Recovering from a rather traumatic weekend. Steven's hoist ceased working Saturday morning and I have had to do transfers by lifting him and my, how my shoulders are suffering. Luckily he is a light weight so this is still possible, but not easy. The engineer is here now fixing it, thank goodness.

On to knitting. My Mr Green Jeans has been spending time on the Naughty step as it was turning out too small, but I decided to give it a reprieve. I undid all the cable rib. I then increased instead of decreasing, the rib pulls in anyway, then completed the cable/rib section on the same size needle as the stocking stitch section. The rib pulls in anyway and it is now a better fit, although still snug. Also, as you can see, a sleeve has been completed.

Woolly Goodness

2010-03-27T15:53:00.002Z

I had a note from my postman on Tuesday that they had tried to deliver a parcel but couldn't because I was out. I had an idea what it was, and today, Saturday, was the first chance I had to receive it.

I wasn't disappointed. It was my share of Cormo/Mohair yarn from Juniper Moon Fiber Farm.

Steven loved the feel and smell of the skeins, and for me, knowing I had witnessed the births of some of the animals providing the yarn, was an extra pleasure. Kidding, and soon lambing, has started again, and the first kids are bouncing around.

Still here

2010-03-13T11:52:00.002Z

Things are calming down a little here. Mum moved into her care home two weeks ago, although things were a bit rough for her to begin with as she had a fall and was very confused. However she is much more herself now, and gradually adapting to her new situation. She has at last remembered how to use her mobile phone, which makes communicating much easier. Surprisingly, none of the staff could help her with it, I thought all young people knew everything about phones.

I have been knitting, although no photos today as I haven't had time to take them. My January socks are finished. I cheated a bit in February as I didn't have much time, so just made some baby bootees. One March sock is finished and the second well on the way. I'm afraid the Mr. Green Jeans has been put on one side as it is coming out far too small for me, sob!

I have some new carers for Steven; they've only been once and are due again tomorrow so time will tell how they work out.

Hope it won't be too long until I update again, hopefully with some photos.

Snowed in

2010-01-08T10:17:00.003Z

Well, nothing much is happening here due to the snow and icy conditions outside. Steven hasn't gone back to his day centre since Christmas and my mother hasn't visited her care home yet, although they have a vacant room at the moment. Thank goodness for Waitrose delivery service, at least we won't starve.

Plenty of time for knitting, the main part of 'Mr. Greenjeans' is finished, and I'm about to start the sleeves. Also a sock for Steven is completed and the second cast on. I'm using the bargain yarn from Lidl which apparently is not machine washable, so care is going to be needed. How long before I forget and just throw them in the machine with the rest of the wash?

Back to the snow, we've all put out our bins and recycling but whether they will be emptied is another matter. Waitrose, milkman, postie, and my cousin, who is four foot ten, 78years old and walked at least a mile, all managed to get through. But Steven's PAs who are two strapping lads of at least six foot, couldn't manage it. So I didn't get my usual Thursday evening break.

Update

2009-12-09T11:32:00.002Z

Just a quick update as things are a bit hectic at the moment. We have found an ideal care home for my mother to move to, and she has accepted this in principle. The problem is that she sees this as something that will be happening in the future, probably well into the new year. I don't want her to feel I'm pushing her out but things are very cramped here. Also, Steven is having some breathing problems especially at night, and may need an over night hospital stay,which is complicating things.
At least I'm getting some Christmas knitting done, several pairs of socks have been completed just one more to do, and I'm finished. Hopefully some pics next time.

Bargain

2009-10-22T10:51:00.005+01:00

Found a bargain today! Four balls of sock wool for £3.99, in Lidl. So I stocked up. It is the usual mix, 75% wool 25% nylon, rather dull colours but I have plenty of brighter ones in the stash.

My WIP at the moment is Mr. Greenjeans. The yarn, some Paton's Merino I got from House of Fraser sale in the summer, for half price; yes I'm a cheapskate, rarely buy anything at full price if I can get it for less. I would call the colour cranberry, I love the way it is knitting up and just hope it will fit when finished, I'm allowing a bit more ease than in the original pattern.

Things aren't improving much at home. My mother is still with me with little improvement in her back or mobility. Steven also had a week at home with a cold but is back at day care now. We had our flu jabs this morning and should be in the next round of swine flu jabs when the surgery gets them in.

Progress

2009-10-01T11:45:00.003+01:00

The little jacket is finished, at least the knitting part is, it still needs blocking and ends need to be sewn in. Vicki asks what it the make and number of the pattern. It is an old Patons pattern no. 250, dating probably from the 1950s or 60s. It was one of a series of Patons patterns featuring designs by Spanish designer Carmen Castresana. All are in 2 or 3ply and generally speaking quite intricate lace patterns. I already possessed one of these and now have nearly the whole series thanks to Ebay.

For a little relaxation a sock is in progress.

My mother managed to fall getting out of bed the other night and now insists on sleeping in the chair, and is actually sleeping very well. The doctor has prescribed stronger pain killers which have made her more comfortable, and I have my bed back which has made me more comfortable!

And finally, this was the magnificent sunset we had the other evening.

Problems

2009-09-24T08:03:00.007+01:00

Well, I'm finally managing to update after a fairly traumatic few weeks. My mother, who is 92, has been suffering from backache for a while, and it suddenly worsened overnight and she could barely get out of bed. I got down to her house as soon as possible, she was seen by the GP and prescribed painkillers. It wasn't possible for me to stay overnight, so my sister came for a few days. When we could get her into a car, she came up to my house and has been here ever since.

A further visit from the doctor on Monday confirmed that she has a collapsed vertebra due to osteoporosis. We're supposed to go to hospital for an Xray, but she doesn't really feel like going at the moment as she can't walk far.

Some knitting has been attempted. I started this before the problems started.

My cousin loves this pattern, not sure why as she always has terrible problems with it and usually ends up frogging. This time I said I would do a KAL with her, big mistake. Hers has been frogged all ready, I'm still battling on.

The problem is that each row is different and it is useless to try to follow the pattern after the first few rows. You certainly need to be able to read your knitting for this one. I could do with some thing plain and soothing to knit at the moment. Like a sock. But I will not be defeated.

Each row, approx. 350 stitches, takes half an hour, but gradually the end is getting nearer.

Lastly a glimpse of my stand at the 1940s W/End which seems a lifetime ago.

Update

2009-08-22T10:23:00.002+01:00

Just a quick update for any faithful readers I have left. I should be busy at the moment getting ready for the 1940s weekend at Bantock Park. I have the pattern and material for a wrap-a-round pinafore, but need to get started on it. Some knitting is also in the pipeline. For some reason, I don't have the enthusiasm to get on with this, and instead have been making toys for http://www.lovinghands.org.uk/ and working on my sock yarn blanket.
Photos hopefully next time I post.

June Garden

2009-07-01T11:35:00.002+01:00

Just a few pics of my very overgrown garden, taken at the weekend. These are growing in the front garden. I thought I had lost this Halimiocistus - 'Merrist Wood Cream' during the hard winter we had, but there it is popping up amongst Lysimachia

These are growing outside the conservatory. The pink rose is Bonica from David Austin. No scent, unfortunately, but compact and suitable for the space it is growing in.

This, believe it or not, is my pool. I have made an attempt to remove the duck weed, but end up getting the net full of wriggling tadpoles. I'll just have to wait until they have all grown legs and left. It doesn't seem to bother the fish, I occasionally see a gleam of gold amongst the green and at least the heron can't see them!

More Ravelry day

2009-06-08T11:57:00.002+01:00

Here are a few more photos. Unfortunately, I only had my phone camera with me, so most of the pictures I took were poor quality, partly due to the weather conditions. This is a slightly better one of the Knit and Natter area. Despite the numbers, there never seemed to be a shortage of seats.

Now for the Stash enhancment. This is 604 yards of silk, which quite probably will become a shawl.

An assortment of Jamieson and Smith's jumper weight wool. A cardigan for myself?

Some sock blockers and a bag.

And finally there was cake, lots of cake, a never ending supply of cake, which every one made the most of before braving the rain yet again for more stash enhancment.

Ravelry Day

2009-06-07T07:37:00.002+01:00

What a fabulous day! The weather was dire, but that didn't put anyone off enjoying themselves. I've a busy day ahead, so will just show one photo of the knitters waiting for Meg Swansen's talk.

Seeing Meg and her sister queuing for the ladies with everyone else just about sums it up. And they noticed my February Lady Jacket, and commented!

Will try to update tomorrow with more photos.

Whoops.....

2009-05-30T09:46:00.006+01:00

........ another long gap. I seem to have lost the blogging habit lately, sorry. Knitting has been happening and some projects are nearing completion.

As usual socks seem to be my most popular knit.

These are for myself, can't remember the yarn except that it is BFL.

and these are for Steven, Austermann Step I think.

I decided that, with Ravelry day rapidly approaching, I really ought to make something to wear. Beatties (HOF) had this in their sale at a ridiculously cheap price. Although it says 4ply, to me it is nearer to a DK.

It said February Lady to me, so that is what I've made. I decided on short sleeves, well it is

summer. Not sure how flattering it will be but at least I will have something knitted to wear that won't be too warm if we have a heat wave.

As you can see, everything is needing ends sewn in and blocking, but hopefully all will be done before too long.

I hope it won't be too long before I blog again, there may even be some photos of Ravelry Day!

April

2009-04-07T09:30:00.005+01:00

I can't believe it's April already, what happened to March? Some knitting has been attempted and actually completed, mostly for Loving Hands charity.

A small blanket and shawl.......

A toddler's jumper and leggings......

and a couple of Jean Greenhowe's Rainbow Babies......

Also last week these arrived, yes my Ravelry Day tickets, after some delay due to paypal problems, happily now resolved. Roll on June 6th. The speakers/workshops seem to increase daily, the latest being Debbie Bliss.

I've also been distracted lately by this Lambcam which I find compulsive viewing. The Angora Goat kids are due to arrive any day but are in no hurry to emerge, probably due to the cold rainy weather they have been having lately.

Frustration

2009-02-25T09:05:00.003Z

Everything is against me this week. I was supposed to be attending a finishing techniques workshop with Debbie Abrahams on Tuesday but Steven decided to start a cold and I spent Tuesday listening to him wheezing and coughing. He has cheered up considerably today so hopefully is on the mend. However I have a small Teddy Bear sweater waiting to be assembled and whether it will ever get done is anyone's guess.

My computer is still giving me grief. Each day something else seems to stop working. Today it is reluctant to have anything to do with the photos in my camera as it is ignoring Bluetooth. It is also having nothing to do with my Bluetooth keyboard although strangely, the mouse still works. Luckily I have a USB keyboard which is working.

Now for something positive. At last I have some frogs in my pool, I began to think they had deserted me this year. They were obviously put off by the cold weather. And here is a photo of a visitor to my bird table, not taken by me but by my cousin Barry.

Snow again

2009-02-03T15:10:00.004Z

I've been stuck indoors with Steven again due to a snow covered drive. At least some knitting has been done and some socks completed.

These were knitted in Austermann Step with Aloe Vera and Jojoba. After one wash they are wonderfully soft and lovely to wear.

My bird table has been very busy and it is difficult to keep it replenished. There is a large contingent of blackbirds who clear the lot and leave nothing for the smaller birds.

This year's robin is a shy, retiring soul, not aggressive as robins usually are. Here he is waiting patiently for his turn.

Seasonal and pretty, but........

2009-01-05T10:34:00.004Z

.......... not my choice of weather for Steven's first day back at his day centre. My neighbour took half an hour to get his car up the drive this morning, so it wasn't advisable for the transport to come down to collect Steven. ( They are not allowed to walk down and push his wheelchair up, health and safety issues.) Over the years I've helped dig a number of vehicles out of the snow.
So it is another boring day for the lad. At least he is enjoying the television at the moment.

Plenty of knitting on the go but not much to show at the moment, mostly charity knits.

Happy Christmas!

2008-12-24T18:17:00.003Z

Just a quick update to wish any readers I have left all the Joys of the Season. Unfortunately, my email has decided to take a holiday too, and I'm unable to send, or receive. It has been pretty unstable for a while and has chosen the holiday season to pack up completely.

BTW I finished the gloves and all my other present knitting in good time so here is a picture.

4ply sock yarn, not quite enough in 50gm. ball so used a plain colour for the ribbing.

Christmas Knitting

2008-11-28T11:14:00.003Z

I thought I was well ahead with my present knitting this year until someone requested gloves. Note that, gloves. With fingers. Definitely not mittens. Not something I have tackled before as far as I can remember, and especially not a month before Christmas. However I'm always up for a challenge so these have been cast on and this is progress so far............

Not television knitting, lots of stitch counting, picking up stitches etc. The fact that I'm using bits from three different patterns doesn't help.

I've also had a frustrating time with my computer lately. Got a bug of some sort which my virus checker didn't pick up making it impossible to use Google, just got a load of advertising. I had to restore right back to August to get rid of it. Then my wireless keyboard and mouse refused to comunicate with the computer which left me in a fix but luckily I found an old plug in mouse which worked and finally got this sorted. My Email is also a bit iffy and I'm not sure that my messages are getting to the right places.

Ah well, back to the knitting, at least it's easy to frog if things go wrong.

Another post

2008-11-01T10:18:00.006Z

What's this? Another post so soon? Maybe I'm getting back into the habit of posting.

I got several balls of this

reduced in Rackhams (HOF) in Birmingham the other day and have made two hats for BISS
who have a Woolly Hat week each year. I'm sending them via Loving hands who have them as one of their winter challenges.

They should be very warm being Wool and alpaca. The pattern was an old Patons pattern, which I adapted to knitting in the round to avoid sewing up, and got both hats from three balls.

Finally, a couple of pics from my autumn garden. The passion flower is doing better than it has all summer and even has a couple of fruits which considering the dire summer is quite surprising.

and this rose, Bonica from David Austin, is doing very well.

Long time

2008-10-29T09:26:00.005Z

Well, it's been a long time, but at last I can get round to a blog entry. Life has just been getting in the way lately. Several hospital/doctor/solicitor appointments and a couple of visits to the wheelchair clinic mean we have been quite busy. At least Steven is more comfortable in his chair with a new moulded seat and we've both had our 'flu jabs.
Some knitting has been done. These socks, which were intended for Steven's birthday last week, aren't quite completed but half of one was knitted in the long wait at the hospital diabetic clinic. I think the yarn was Regia.
These socks have been completed for a while, and are a Christmas present for a non-blogging friend. I think Socka with bamboo, sorry but I'm hopeless at remembering labels.

Both these are my usual toe up, short row pattern. I've also completed these bootees for charity from left over sock yarn. Pattern mostly out of my head, Icord ties.

Finally, we had a sprinkling of snow yesterday and unusually for October it has hung around. Not enough to cause any problems though.

NEC

2008-09-17T11:29:00.005+01:00

Managed a day out at the NEC last Thursday. It was good to meet up with Fred and other Bloggers, hi Noonie. I taught several students to knit but I'm not sure how many will keep it up. They really need ongoing help, maybe they will find a local knitting group.

A few purchases were made, sock yarn naturally and also some BFL from Fybrespates who were in Birmingham for the first time. I got enough aran weight to make something for myself and have started the Casual Friday Vest slightly adapted to have a cable down the front. The yarn is lovely and soft, a little thicker than I usually knit with but shouldn't be uncomfortably warm as it is sleeveless.

The Sock yarn blanket came along to the NEC and was admired. I've decided I need it a little wider so am adding squares on the right which is a little complicated but possible and at all costs I want to avoid sewing.

The respite for Steven is almost nonexistent at the moment. A carer came along the other day but she had no training in PEG feeding or use of the hoist so was useless.

Bantock

2008-09-08T09:48:00.004+01:00

Well, it was a very successful 1940's weekend at Bantock House. Numbers were down a bit on Saturday because of the dire weather but large numbers turned out on Sunday. I could have done with a larger table for my display of knitting ( must try to go more vertical next year, perhaps a display board of some sort.) People were fascinated by the sock knitting especially as I was using DPNs (I much prefer Magic Loop!)

We displayed my mother's wedding dress from 1942. She came along on Sunday and thoroughly enjoyed herself answering questions.

Brenda brought along her spinning wheel which created a lot of interest.

There was also another knitter there, making a Fair Isle sweater. I think her name was Claire.

On Saturday, another lady (? Louise) brought her crochet, but she couldn't manage Sunday. So all in all crafts were well represented. In previous years we only had rag rug making.

And finally, I couldn't resist this shot of hungry reenactors tucking in to their lunch.

Preparations

2008-09-05T11:54:00.002+01:00

No photos today as I'm busy getting ready for the 1940's weekend at Bantock House. I'm planning a display of 1940's knitting and a few other bits and pieces I've collected. I have quite a collection of books by Jane Koster and Margaret Murray and also found this site useful.
My mother is full of gloom and thinks no one will turn up because of the dreadful weather, but I'm remaining optimistic and at least I will be indoors.
I've just had a wasted journey to hospital with Steven. Apparently his appointment had been brought forward to the 3rd, but no one let me know. Next week we go to the wheelchair clinic, hopefully no hitches there.
Hope to have some photos next week.

Diversions

2008-08-21T16:24:00.004+01:00

Why am I so easily diverted from what I should be doing? Procrastination has always been my middle name. With the 1940's weekend at Bantock House rapidly approaching, I should be finishing off a multitude of WW2 garments, most are just waiting to be pressed and sewn up. At least this childs pullover is finished. The yarn was a give away from Texere a while ago, very fine lambs wool which I used double. I couldn't get the right effect with locally bought modern yarns, and this seemed ancient enough.

Instead what have I been knitting? This..........

yes, it's Shelly Kang's Sock Yarn Blankie. The idea is to use up all those odds and ends left over from knitting socks. (But it is oh so tempting to buy yarn just for the blanket!) Any way this must go on the back burner for a while, although it does keep calling me. You have to have a bit of colour in your life.

Back again

2008-07-23T11:00:00.005+01:00

I can't believe it is over a month since I last updated. Time just flew away. Well, here is a post for my loyal readers, ( if I still have any!)

Life has been pretty busy as I've had no respite carers for Steven. We both had colds but are now recovered. I did manage an evening out last month at a cousin's golden wedding celebration, which was very enjoyable. Congratulations Sheila and Roy.

The knitting needless to say has continued, not much else to do stuck at home. I'm still knitting for Loving Hands. I like this charity as they always have a variety of recipients, babies, older children, adults or animals, take your pick. Sadly, Lou, the founder and organiser of the group has had a terrible accident and is at present in intensive care. We are still knitting but holding on to our contributions for the time being. I did manage to send these off before I heard. They are going back to Africa with the
Singing Children.

The triplets have arrived and are now at home and doing well. Here are the jackets I made for Joseph, Elliott and Noah. I used sock yarn, silk and wool.

I've now been tempted by another project. More about this in my next post, whenever I get round to writing it. It has taken me a week to get this one posted! Blame the hot weather, I'm just not used to it, and Steven has been pretty gloomy about it too.

Busy, Busy.

2008-06-21T09:44:00.005+01:00

Sorry it's been so long since my last post. I have been busy knitting as I have some deadlines in sight.

First some charity knits for Loving Hands. These have to be sent next week so I must get a move on. This blanket needs the sewing up completed and an edging ( if I have time).

I'm also busy with three BSJ's. One of Steven's carers is about to become the father of triplets! I was hoping that at least one would be a girl as I have a pink jacket all ready made, but no, they're all boys.

This is progress so far........

I'm using sock wool, some already in the stash but also a good excuse for a visit to Leamington Spa and Web of Wool. I think the Regia Silk is particularly soft and suitable for baby garments, and machine washable and dryable.

The imminent arrival of the babies and another carer off sick mean I'm having difficulty getting respite carers this coming week. Hopefully this will be resolved next weekend as I'm off to a Golden wedding celebration.

FOs

2008-05-27T18:14:00.002+01:00

I've finished off a baby jacket which has been hanging around for a while. I haven't really enjoyed this project, but wanted to try the EZ February Jacket. The yarn seemed too heavy for a lace pattern (Elle pure wool DK) and the colour wrong for such a 'girly' pattern. However it is going for charity and I'm sure the recipient won't care, as long as it is warm!

I've also finished the knitting on my 1940's school pullover but it still needs blocking, pressing and sewing up. The yarn was some ancient lamb's wool on a cone which was free from Texere when they were having a clear out a while ago. It feels quite 'itchy' but hopefully will soften up after a wash.

And finally, for Roo, the bluebells were in Park Coppice, a small wood near Colton Hills school.

Summer

2008-05-13T09:18:00.004+01:00

I see I have had another long gap between postings. In that two weeks we have gone from winter to summer, one week central heating on and winter coats, the next almost a heatwave! I've had a friend staying, so we took the opportunity to get out and about. We visited the local bluebell wood, always beautiful in May. Unfortunately, I thought we could take a short cut through the school grounds, only to find the gate at the other end locked, so we had to go the long way round after all.

On the May day bank holiday, we visited Moseley Old Hall where there should have been dancing round the Maypole but the grass was too wet after rain in the morning so the dancing was in the barn. You will see that the Maypole is decorated in the old way, with flowers, apparently decoration with ribbons was a later, Victorian custom.

And what do you know, the Noro socks are finished and are a matched pair! Not yet worn so I can't comment on how they are in use.

Lots of things on the go, including some crochet, so more to show later.

Garden

2008-04-28T09:23:00.003+01:00

I seem to have been neglecting the blog recently. I didn't realise it was so long since I posted. Not much to show on the knitting, although progress has been made on several projects. I've started the second Kureyon sock, and so far the stripes are matching, which pleases me.

I've also made some progress in the garden. Sadly, not my own work, but something that needed to be done. This cherry tree has been ailing since I had it pruned a few years ago. Last year it lost its leaves mid summer and looked dead. I gave it a chance to revive this spring, but it was not to be.

So it is now reduced to a sweetly smelling pile of logs.

I don't have an open fire myself, but have a friend who burns logs so they will be going to her, when she can arrange transport.

Also garden related, my tomato seedlings are making progress, if a little slowly. However it will be a few weeks before they can go outside, so should have grown a bit by then.

Knit-Chat

2008-04-15T16:39:00.004+01:00

We had a good crowd in Beatties (House of Fraser) today in our Knit-Chat group. Lots of chatting, and a fair bit of knitting.

We now meet in the Haberdashery department, which is a Coates franchise. Rowan and Patons yarns mainly although there is now some sock wool. As you can see, it sometimes gets a bit cramped around the small table.

I've recently bought a new phone with a much better camera, but I need more practise at using it, so one photo was too blurred to use.

Kureyon Sock review

2008-04-11T17:03:00.002+01:00

The first sock in Kureyon sock yarn is finished. I used a size 2.5 circular needle and Magic Loop. The yarn is very different from other sock yarn I've used, single ply and so tightly spun it kept twisting back on itself and getting into knots. It is also not as soft as most sock yarns and made quite a firm fabric. I can't comment on wearing/washing so far, but it is hand wash only.
The yarn was free of straw and other foreign matter but did have a lot of uneven spinning, in some places it was very thick although I haven't come across any areas too thin. Of course, the colours were wonderful, as Noro always is. Now to cast on sock number two.

Arrivals

2008-04-09T18:16:00.005+01:00

No sooner had I published the last post, when the postman delivered this..........

......... issue number 5 of Yarn Forward. I haven't done more than glance through it so far, but there are some interesting articles and knittable/wearable patterns.
As I had resubscribed, I also got some beautifully soft yarn and a pattern for a shawl. Not all that keen on the colour, though. Maybe it will grow on me.

I had two arrivals on my pond yesterday. These mallards appeared at lunchtime and stayed until dusk, paddling around and frightening the tadpoles! Hopefully they also ate some of the weed.

Compulsive reading.

2008-04-09T07:48:00.004+01:00

Much to my shame, I have to admit I have found the Hipknits/Magknits saga on Ravelry, in the last few days, compulsive reading. I had a problem in 2006 with none delivery of sock club yarn and difficulty communicating, happily sorted out eventually. I won't go in to the problems with Yarn Forward magazine (worryingly I have renewed my subscription, hope it doesn't go the same way as Magknits.)

On a lighter note, my cousin and I had an enjoyable day last week, getting lost in Shropshire. But who minds getting lost, with views like this to see?

That hill on the horizon is the Wrekin and from this angle it is clear that it was once a volcano.

Finished at last

2008-04-03T16:46:00.005+01:00

Steven has a new pair of socks. These have been OTNs for far too long, with only an inch and the casting off to do, so I set to last night and finished them. Yarn was Fortissima Socka colour 521. They are fraternal twins as the stripes were too difficult to match up, but Steven won't care.

Completing these of course means I can cast on a pair for myself. ( As if I need any more WIPs!)
When I was in Chester last week I visited Stash and this Kureyon sock yarn jumped into my bag. I've seen a bit written about this on the internet, so now is my chance to try it out.

I'm also somewhat distracted by various charity appeals. I find it difficult to ignore these especially if children are involved. It is also an excuse to use up my ever increasing odd balls. These will hopefully become a blanket for Loving Hands summer challenge.

Not knitting

2008-03-30T11:17:00.005+01:00

I promise, not a mention.
On Tuesday I did a bit of family history research with my cousin and her granddaughter. We possess, in the family, a sampler made by a several greats aunt in 1849, aged 11. ( I can't imagine a modern 11year old having the patience.)The sampler depicts the hymn sung by the school children at the laying of the first stone of St. Peter's church, Cookley, Worcestershire.

Freya was interested in seeing the church mentioned on the sampler, so we went to Cookley and visited St. Peter's Church.

Yesterday, I took this photo of Steven, completely absorbed in the University boat race. He is taking more interest in the television lately, and always has a smile when his favourite weather presenter is on! ( Carole Kirkwood as it happens, I think he should start a fan club!)

Startitis

2008-03-19T11:50:00.006Z

I'm suffering from a bad attack of Startitis at the moment. I've just completed a BSJ for a neighbour's baby. I usually play safe and stick to pastels or bright primary colours, but thought I would step out of my comfort zone for this one. The yarn was Patons Diploma Gold DK.

In addition, I've joined an Elizabeth Zimmermann Knit-along to make a Gull Stitch Sweater. Yarn Elle DK.

I saw a request this morning for baby hats for Ray of Hope so what do you know, I've cast one on!

And finally, a sock for Steven. This is the second one and is my 'knitting on the move', mostly done on public transport.

This is almost finished so next will be socks for myself.

A bit of colour

2008-03-11T14:39:00.002Z

I needed a bit of light relief from all the 1940s navy and grey. These little fellows are Jane Greenhowe's Little Gift Dolls and will soon be on their way, with a few other things, for the Loving Hands Easter challenge.
On Thursday, I'm off to join Fred and Co. at the NEC show. No doubt a little stash enhancement will take place.

Pool and FO

2008-03-01T15:08:00.006Z

Well, the pool is weeded, scrubbed and ready for replanting. Not sure what the frogs think about it all, but they're still there. The tadpoles, when they arrive won't have anything to eat so I might possibly need some fish food. It is going to take a while before the natural balance is restored.

I've completed the WW2 balaclava. I tried to get Steven to model it, but it was difficult as he doesn't 'do' hats and was trying his best to remove it, also it was too big for him.

Here is the ear flap in greater detail.........

Sorry it is not any clearer, but I find navy a difficult colour to photograph. The pattern was a vintage one on the V&A museum web site but it no longer seems available, which is a shame.

Frogs

2008-02-25T14:38:00.003Z

No, not the knitting sort, but those in my garden pool. This has been very neglected recently and in need of a complete overhaul. I thought it would be done before the frogs got busy, but unfortunately they arrived last week. In any case, they probably spent the winter in the mud at the bottom of the pool so would have been disturbed anyway. There isn't really a good time for this messy job. This is a before shot...........

.......... and here are some of the fifty odd frogs trying to escape. Just look at the variety of colours and markings. One even had red legs. Hopefully they will settle down once the pool is refilled but it will take a while before the natural balance is restored. Eventually, I hope to have some more fish, and will take care to protect them from the heron who took my last lot.

Socks Finished

2008-02-23T15:27:00.004Z

The knee socks are finished. Here they are being modelled by Steven. His legs are very thin, so I hope they will fit around a normal child's calf.

I've been sorting through my stash for more suitable yarn for WW2 knitting and found this.......

...... fine lamb's wool but in rather dull colours. This came from Texere a couple of years ago when they were clearing old stock and gave it away free for the cost of postage. I'm sure not all the wartime knitting was done in such dismal colours, but for the troops it should be suitable.

I've started another Balaclava, this time with ear flaps, from a pattern from the V&A collection (which no longer seems available on line.) I found two strands of the lamb's wool gives a respectable 4ply. This is progress so far, greatly helped by a long morning at the local hospital acting as 'guinea pig' for Drs exams. This just involves my sitting knitting all morning and occasionally have young Drs examine my neck (thyroid problems.) There is also a free lunch and coffee. I got most of the ribbing done.

Progress

2008-02-12T09:43:00.000Z

Not doing too well with the Blogging this year, am I? Some knitting has been done, and progress made on the 1940's knee socks; one completed and the second OTNs. My, but it's boring knitting in grey.
I therefore had a short break to make this seat pad in Paton's Diploma Gold. The pattern was an amalgamation of several vintage patterns in my possession. It is now off to grace my chair at the Beatties Knit Chat group. We have started meeting in the haberdashery department, different but not as cosy as the cafe, and the chairs are harder! However it's good to be able to see the new yarns.

Steven has been having a busy time at day care so far this year. Lots of outings, to

Cannock Chase a local beauty spot, Lichfield Cathedral to hear an organ recital, and

Cosford RAF Museum among others. Quite a varied program which he seems to enjoy.

Treasured Post

2008-01-31T11:13:00.000Z

Look what the postman brought this morning! First, the latest edition of Yarn Forward. I've been pondering whether to renew my subscription, not sure that I can stand the tension of wondering if and when my copy will arrive! The patterns are very knit- and wear-able and the articles interesting and informative. So on balance, I think I will renew.

This book also arrived.

I've had the First and Second Treasuries since the 1970s. I'd borrowed them from the library and mentioned how much I would like my own copies. My father, bless him, got them me for Christmas, not so easy in those days ordering from America. They have been invaluable over the years and, being hardbacks, have worn well. Not sure that this paperback will survive as well.

And finally, I don't think I've posted a picture of Woolly before. She followed me home from the Birmingham Christmas Market where she was a member of quite a large flock on one of the stalls.

1940s again

2008-01-24T10:31:00.000Z

I went along to Bantock house the other day and had a chat to the person who organises the 1940's events. She is very keen to have a selection of clothes for visiting school parties to see and dress up in. I'm going to knit a few things for her starting with these socks...........

I'm also hoping to make a pullover and a selection of hats.

This was my inspiration, myself aged five. Everything handmade. Socks, knitted by Grandma R. jumper by Grandma W. Skirt made by Auntie ( except she left the pins in round the hem. I kept complaining that it scratched but my mother didn't realise until she washed it!) Even the cane chair was made by Grandpa.
Lastly, I spotted these Cyclamen Coum yesterday, just about surviving in my lawn.

Back again

2008-01-21T10:18:00.000Z

My apologies to any readers of this Blog but blogging time has been somewhat reduced recently due to my preoccupation with this...........
Of course, if I wasn't the world's worst procrastinator, it would have been completed and sent off months ago and I wouldn't have had to do my own calculations. Hopefully, I'm on the last leg now and can post it with a clear conscience.
Now to something more pleasant, socks for Steven. These are in K2 P2 rib so are taking a little longer than plain SS.

Happy New Year !

2008-01-01T10:29:00.000Z

Well, I'm through to the other side of the festivities. There has been little time for blogging with members of the extended family dropping in for short or long stays. Also Steven has had no Day Care for a week and his respite carers have been off sick. Hopefully we will be back to normal ( whatever that is ) tomorrow.
It is very rare that I get any fibre related gifts, but this Christmas was an exception. That beautiful cashmere is crying out to be a scarf ...........

......... and just look at these wonderful handmade stitch markers from Yuca.

Now the Festive knitting is finished I can continue with my 1940's project. I've cast on for a balaclava helmet from Practical Knitting Illustrated by Jane Koster and Margaret Murray published in 1940. I've substituted DK for the 4ply in the pattern and seem to be getting the right tension. I think 4ply was thicker in those days and 3ply was more like our 4ply. The wool is actually more khaki than it looks in the photo.

Finished

2007-12-14T17:31:00.001Z

I've actually managed to complete some projects in the last few days. These socks for myself have been hanging around for far too long. My usual toe-up pattern, short row toe and heel with picot edge top (a cast off edge is always too tight.

Then meet the boys, who will be off to their new homes shortly. The pattern was from Alan Dart's Hobby Bear collection with a few adaptions of my own.

Presents

2007-12-05T09:24:00.001Z

I think I can safely post some Christmas knitting as I am sure the recipient does not view this blog. This is an adaption of an Alan Dart pattern.

Although he is still earless, he is in a better state than his friend, who appears to have odd legs apart from being rather disjointed. I'm embroidering the eyes instead of using plastic eyes, safer given the youth of their new owners. I find toys are a good way of using up odd balls of acrylic of which I seem to have an indecent amount, the heads and paws are Wendy/Peter Pan Velvet Touch which gives a fabric like finish and is very soft.
It looks as if I will have to venture out into my neglected garden soon, as this arrived yesterday, climbing roses for my bare fence.

The weather isn't very welcoming for outdoor work today, it is raining heavily at the moment and I have to go out to post a birthday card.

And finally, a message for Chris, who is embarking on her first sock. Hope it is going well and have you got to the heel yet?

Sunday morning

2007-11-25T10:22:00.000Z

I've plenty to do knitting-wise for Christmas, but that hasn't stopped me from starting another pair of vintage bootees. These are the patterns I've been using.

And what better occupation for a Sunday morning than a cup of coffee, knitting and the Archers.

Winter......

2007-11-19T10:09:00.000Z

........... has arrived with our first snowfall last night. Luckily, it has mostly melted now so hasn't disrupted Steven going to day care. It doesn't take much to do this as the transport cannot get down my steep drive if it is covered by snow.
I'm getting on with Christmas knitting but nothing to show at the moment as most things are unbloggable.
Instead here are some pictures of a recent visit to Coventry. The shopping was very disappointing, no yarn that I could see, but did visit the Cathedral. These pictures were taken in the old cathedral which was destroyed in WW2.

Reconciliation

As I was composing this post, look what the postman brought!

This means a good sit down and browse with a cup of coffee.

Stash enhancement

2007-11-09T09:31:00.000Z

Yesterday, I spent the day at the NEC Hobbycraft show. I volunteered for a couple of hours on the Knit and Natter stand, but didn't have the opportunity to teach anyone to knit. Most visitors knew how to knit already and there were no school parties. The yarn content of the show was minimal but I did make a modest addition to stash. My sock yarn is being used rapidly, so a visit to Web of Wool was essential. The yarn top right contains Bamboo.

I also bought this pack of Jaeger 4ply in the hope, probably vain, that I might get round to making something for myself. The colour is more of a grey/green than it appears in the photo.

And finally, these bootees which are heading off up to Scotland for Lou's Loving Hands charity.

The patterns are from some 1960's Patons and Sirdar leaflets. Somehow, modern patterns are so simplified and crude in comparison. Also, the yarns used nowadays are far thicker and must be heavy and uncomfortable for the babies to wear.

Some FOs

2007-11-02T16:51:00.001Z

Quite a lot of knitting has been going on but not much finishing. Because I hate sewing up, much of it is still in this state............

However, socks need little completing, so these are now in a wearable condition. Yarn was Regia Design Line by Faffe Fassett. I think I would have prefered the colourway without the royal blue.

I've also made a couple of BSJs and matching hats for charity, also needing little seaming.

The yarn was oddments of acrylic from my stash which I am trying to use up without much success, I'm sure it's breeding!

Now something not knitting related. I unearthed the larger of these quilts when I was clearing a space for yarn. I'd had quite forgotten it but think it makes an attractive throw. It must be over twenty years ago that these were made.

21 today

2007-10-22T10:03:00.000+01:00

Yes, today is Steven's 21st Birthday! It only seems five minutes since I was blogging about his 20th. He went off to his day centre with a cake to share with his friends. The post hasn't come yet, although some cards arrived on Saturday. And no, he hasn't been at the bottles of sherry so prominently displayed!

I'm in !

2007-10-14T09:41:00.000+01:00

Into Ravelry that is. I got my invitation yesterday but have not had time for more than a cursory look around. It is so huge, it will take all my free time just seeing what is there, never mind contributing. As always, housework will go on the back burner although we do have to eat occasionally. I'm Goldthorngirl, of course.

Visitor

2007-10-11T09:53:00.000+01:00

I haven't had much time for blogging, or knitting, recently as I have had a friend visiting and we've been out and about. We spent one day in Chester and, of course, a short visit to Stash was essential. Margaret isn't a knitter, so I tried to keep yarn related shopping to the minimum. However these found their way into my bag.......

We also had a short visit from another friend and her two year old grandson. Jacob had never seen unknitted yarn before and was fascinated by the balls of wool I had lying about.

Tomorrow, I should have plenty of time to knit. I'm off to the hospital to act as guinea pig for medical students. It was suggested that I took something to read, so I think there will be a lot of sitting around, but I think the knitting will be coming along too.

1940's knitting

2007-10-01T16:56:00.001+01:00

Over the years I have been collecting old knitting books and the advent of Ebay and Amazon has meant an increase in my acquisitions. These Paton's Woolcrafts date from the 1920's to WW2.

I also have several books by Jane Koster and Margaret Murray, published between 1940 and 1950.

All these books are a wonderful source of patterns showing the fashions of those years.
My visit to the Bantock Park 1940's weekend showed little in the way of knitted fashions, so I thought it would be a good idea to knit some of the patterns from these books with the view of putting on a display next year.
The main problem is finding suitable yarns. Most garments were knitted in 3ply, 4ply was considered heavy-weight. There was a little double knitting, but this was extravagant to use as 2 ounces of wool used up one clothing coupon, 2ply was popular for underwear. These days 3ply mainly comes in baby colours, and of course there were no synthetics except for Artificial Silk (Rayon). Also I'm finding getting the tension right is quite difficult, however I'm working on it. More later.

Update

2007-09-22T11:53:00.000+01:00

This is a belated update on my NEC visit. I had an enjoyable day helping out on the Relax and Knit stand, picture on Fred's Blog.We taught several young people to knit, although a couple had the rudiments already having been taught by Grandma when very young. One lady wanted to knit socks, and luckily I had taken two socks, one on DPs, one on Magic loop so was able to show her both methods. She prefered DPs and went off happily to Web of Wool to get needles and yarn. In all a satisfying day, and one I would like to repeat.
I must admit I was a bit disappointed in the actual show. I thought that as the show was the Knitting and Stitching show the emphasis would be on knitting, but it was not. I was hoping that Colinette would be there, but no luck. I did get some Jitterbug from Web of Wool.

This was almost the only purchase I made, except for some buttons.

I have a long term project in mind, more of this another day.

Back to Knitting

2007-09-12T12:13:00.000+01:00

Yes, some knitting has been progressing; first, socks. Top, we have Colinette Jitterbug on my favourite Magic Loop. Bottom, St. Ives sock wool, yes your eyes don't deceive you, I thought it was about time I tackled the dreaded DPNs. Can't say I am converted, I seem to spend a large amount of time picking up dropped needles and stitches. After all, I now have eight needle ends to lose the stitches from.

Next, yet another BSJ, just needing cuffs and buttons. Yarn, some unlabelled acrylic from stash.

Finally, I spotted this in a local charity shop yesterday.

Ideal storage for ' special' needles including some Peace Fleece from
Woolly Workshop.

Off to the NEC tomorrow, all being well, to help Fred on the Relax and Knit stand, so may see some fellow Bloggers.

Swimmers 1909

2007-09-05T16:21:00.001+01:00

I simply had to share this photo with a wider audience. These fine young men, pictured in 1909, were swimming in the open air pool in Cannon Hill park, Birmingham. On the back is written 'Cannon Hill Nuts'. My grandfather, Sidney Wood, is the well clothed man on the right.

1940's Weekend

2007-09-03T10:01:00.000+01:00

This is my second attempt at an update, Blogger ate the first one.

We've had a busy week. Steven had a brief admission to hospital on Tuesday, home on Wednesday. Thursday was spent recovering then back to hospital Friday for a scheduled out patients appointment.

I finished my 1940's style sweater in time for the event at Bantock Park at the week end. (See photo at top. Blogger is really playing up and won't let me move photos or make links.) I also made a turban type hat but it was so horrendous it's getting frogged.

There was an interesting display of knitted food but not much in the way of knitted clothing. What I did see was in double knitting acrylic, very much not 1940s when 4ply was considered heavy weight and wool and artificial silk were the yarns used. Cotton was for dishcloths. Must try and knit them some more genuine samples for next year

Greetings from SO9096

2007-08-25T18:49:00.000+01:00

I'm afraid I've been somewhat distracted from knitting by this site,

http://www.geograph.org.uk/

The aim is to have a photograph,or several, taken in every grid square in the British Isles, so I've been busy filling in the gaps in my local area. It's a good way to get out and about, something I've been doing too little of lately. The weather has been glorious for the last few days, and it seems a shame to stay in and knit.

Having said that, I do have a deadline and a couple of things needing urgent completion. I finished these some time ago and they have now gone off to their new owner. Mum is Chinese so the red is appropriate as it signifies good luck.

My usual Baby Surprise pattern and Zoe Mellor bootees.

Good News

2007-08-15T16:19:00.000+01:00

I see from Andy's blog that Niki has had a baby boy, Peter. She has not had an easy pregnancy so it was good to hear of the safe arrival. I don't know Niki, only from reading her blog, but it is strange how you feel involved in blogger's lives from their blog posts.

Views

2007-08-11T11:27:00.000+01:00

There is some knitting going on but nothing completed as there is quite a lot of sewing up to be done which I hate. Hopefully by my next post I will have at least one completed project to show.

Meanwhile here are some views from my conservatory; first, the Brown Clee.......

.......then a view across the Shropshire countryside........

This is the country that Housman had in mind when he wrote, in the Shropshire Lad, of lost youth .........

'Into my heart an air that kills

From yon far country blows:

What are those blue remembered hills,

What spires, what farms are those?

That is the land of lost content,

I see it shining plain,

The happy highways where I went

And cannot come again.'

And lastly, while I was taking these photos, the Robin had to get into the picture. He is in mid moult and was obviously having a bad feather day!

Birthday

2007-07-28T08:10:00.000+01:00

On Thursday we celebrated my mother's 90th birthday. After a family meal at a local hotel, we returned home for the cake..........

............ with more family members and friends.

More pictures on Flickr.

This picture was taken around her first birthday when World War One was still being fought.

First

2007-07-23T09:19:00.000+01:00

My BSJ was placed first in the knitting section of the Albury Produce Show. Don't know what the competition was though as I didn't manage to go, my cousin entered it on my behalf. I also entered a photograph, but that wasn't successful.

Stash

2007-07-19T12:06:00.000+01:00

I've had a good sort through my stash recently. The wardrobe is tidier.......

............ the boxes 'out back' are organised and some very old UFOs have been reduced to this......

My WIPs are neatly bagged up, and untangled, and are going to be completed in an orderly way.

I've sorted a box of odd balls to go to Freecycle and made a resolution to buy only quality yarns, with a project in mind, in the future.

So what do I do? Only order Texere's Big Box of Balls! Well it was a bargain, and will help to fill the gap my sorting out has left.

ASJ and Invasion.

2007-07-14T11:12:00.000+01:00

Has it really been ten days since I last posted? Well, at least I haven't been idle. The ASJ is complete! I give you the front..........

and the back ...........

I've also been invaded, by insects. I live quite happily with ants in the garden and don't use any poisons, unlike my neighbours who are out spraying at the first sign of anything with more than four legs. Unfortunately, the conservatory has been built over an ants nest, and they swarmed inside the other day. I must admit they've done a great job disposing of their dead companions (the flying ants die after their nuptial flight) but there are still quite a few running around, so I've had to put some bait down which hopefully will solve the problem.

Rather more serious is this.......

........ a wasp's nest inside my cavity wall. They're going in and out next to the patio door so will have to be removed before they start to get aggressive in the autumn.

Happy 4th.......

2007-07-04T10:16:00.000+01:00

........... to any readers from across the pond. Steven went off to day care suitably dressed this morning.

We had an early start this morning when three hefty young men arrived to turn this.......

...........into this............

Can you spot what has gone? Yes, the very large buddleia which was blocking my view is no more. I can see the Clee hills again, (when it isn't misty or raining.)The butterflies will miss it but I won't, and I can see a beautiful rose rambling along the trellis. Probably an English rose from David Austin. who is just down the road.

BTW, does anyone else get reminded of Monty Python when they encounter Tree Surgeons? NonPC now I suppose, but I do get the urge to start singing!

Thoughts on Terrorism

2007-07-02T07:30:00.000+01:00

I heard on the news this morning that one of the men being held on suspicion of the recent car bomb attempts in London and Glasgow, was a hospital Doctor. It makes you wonder how someone dedicated to saving lives, could be plotting to kill people.

It takes me back to the 1970s, when I worked in a residential nursery, in London, and shared the care of six babies, with an Irish nurse, a pleasant girl, easy to get on with, kind and loving towards the children. She went on holiday and never returned. The next thing we knew was that the police were looking for her in connection with bomb plots. Her flat had been searched, and explosives found under her bed. As far as I know, she has never been found, although her boy friend was arrested some time later. I had great difficulty in believing that the person I had been working with was a terrorist bomber.

Back to more mundane matters. I have been working on the ASJ and made a little progress, the front bands are nearly complete and I've chosen the buttons. Just the sleeves to finish. Not much point in showing a picture as it hasn't changed much from the last time.

I got a little diverted by another BSJ (baby clothes are so quick to make!) This is intended for a village show later in the month. I used Debbie Bliss Baby Cashmerino.

Parcel sent

2007-06-27T15:38:00.000+01:00

I sent off a parcel of jackets, hats etc. to Brigid, for Kisiizi this morning.

Notice that they are displayed on my lovely new conservatory floor!

I completed this set with the addition of hat and bootees, about a one year old size..........

.........and found some attractive buttons for the jacket, which are also easy to use, important when you are dressing children. Some fancy buttons are too awkwardly shaped to go through buttonholes easily.

The weather has been appalling the last few days, although this area has not had the bad flooding some places have. I'm unlikely to suffer floods anyway, being on a hill.

Recovered

2007-06-21T10:56:00.000+01:00

Just about recovered from my visit to Gardener's World Live last week. I found walking around for about five hours, extremely exhausting. There were actually three shows, Good Food and Good Homes as well as the gardening show, too much to see in one visit. I did see some conservatory blinds I liked, but no furniture.

I'm afraid the ASJ is in the waiting area at the moment as I'm making a few small things for Kisiisi as light relief, and to use more of the stash, which seems to get no smaller.

I've completed another BSJ, double knitting, approx. 20" chest. I love the way this has turned out; the joy of this pattern is the way each garment is so different from the others, and you're never quite sure how it will look.

Now I have to find some suitable buttons.

I also have some tiny jackets, for the smallest babies, and hope to make a few hats.

The flooring in the conservatory is being fitted on Monday, so disruption again for a while.

Not much done in the garden this week, due to the wet weather, but here are a couple of pictures.

Peony Sarah Bernhardt, and Rose New Dawn.

June Garden

2007-06-13T10:49:00.000+01:00

The garden is recovering from the ravages of the builders and looking at its best.

I'm afraid these days, due to lack of time and energy, my gardening has been of the 'studied neglect' variety. The principle is to pack 'em in tightly so the weeds don't have a chance to grow. In the past I've also planted a lot of 'thugs', like the Golden Marjoram, which has seeded everywhere and overpowered more delicate plants.

Still no flooring in the conservatory, but we did manage to eat Sunday lunch in there this week.

I'm off to Gardeners World Live tomorrow, which this year is incorporating a Good Homes show, so I may see some conservatory furniture I like.

Snap!

2007-06-08T15:43:00.000+01:00

I've just completed socks for Steven and see on his blog that Colin has been using the same yarn and colourway!

The ASJ is getting very unwieldy now, so I need socks for when I KIP.

The jacket is now on two 40 inch circulars and I am about to start the body extension. It is starting to look like a jacket.

I haven't blogged for a while as life has been quite busy. It was good to meet up with Rose and Steph (briefly back in the Midlands) at Fiona's house last week, but sad that I had to leave early due to an unscheduled visit by workmen ( why do they never choose a convenient time to come?) The flooring in the conservatory should be fitted soon, then I can start to consider furnishings. I also have to get window blinds.

Chester and ASJ

2007-05-26T15:02:00.000+01:00

I ventured a little further afield on Wednesday and visited Chester and had an enjoyable day there. I did the usual visit to the cathedral and walk around the walls, not the complete circuit although I have done that in the past.

I also shopped in the 'Rows' and, of course, visited Stash where a few small purchases took place.

My ASJ is progressing, a little more slowly as the first enthusiasm has worn off. Also, I discovered a dropped stitch and had to frog several rows. However, I am approaching the neck shaping. Here is the progress in the last few days.

While I was in Chester Cathedral I bought this .............
.......... a copy of the Green Man misericord which I thought would be appropriate to hang on the wall in the new conservatory.

Garden

2007-05-21T10:26:00.000+01:00

Not a lot more to show on the ASJ, although it is progressing, if a little slower, so I won't bore you with pictures.

We had a pleasant afternoon out at a local garden which was open yesterday. It was lovely having tea on the lawn, and the weather was perfect. So was the chocolate cake ;)

In my garden, the robins are busy feeding several speckled youngsters, and looking a little harassed. Its a pity they didn't find somewhere more photogenic to perch.

I don't seem to have much success in encouraging the blue tits to use my nest box, unlike Roo whose BF has rigged up a camera in her box. I think mine must be spoiled for choice, as every garden round about here has a box.

Progress

2007-05-18T08:38:00.000+01:00

The ASJ has made progress. I'm finding this an easy knit so far, although I have hit upon a snag. I started the diagonal increases on the first instead of the second row, which means I may not be able to make an invisible join when I start knitting the sleeve extension.

In reply to Helen's comment, the ASJ is worked on a different principle to the BSJ and you need to have the pattern as the size is based on your stitch gauge and your personal measurements so is different for everyone.

There is also progress on the conservatory which has now been plastered and has electricity.

I've also had someone to measure up for flooring to cover the mess the plasterers made.

The bad news this week is that I have strained a muscle in my back. Lots of lovely sitting and knitting you may think. But no, I still have the same household chores to do, Steven to feed and bath, just at half the speed. Hopefully, the Ibuprofen will start to kick in soon.

A.S.J.

2007-05-12T07:06:00.000+01:00

I am taking the plunge and joining a knit-a-long to make Elizabeth Zimmermann's Adult Surprise Jacket. I've collected together various colours of DK wool that I have in my stash, found a 40inch circular needle, and worked my swatch to check my gauge.

The pattern is in the Opinionated Knitter.

A quick calculation says that I will be casting on over 400 stitches, which is more than a bit daunting! Hope I don't fall by the wayside and it ends up as a UFO. However, my bugbear is sewing up, and there is very little of that in this pattern.

Sad news

2007-05-05T11:31:00.000+01:00

I heard yesterday that a distant relative has committed suicide. I didn't know Lynne well, we only met occasionally at family gatherings, but she appeared to be a happy, well balanced girl. She leaves a devastated husband and two teenaged children. That side of the family has had more than its fair share of tragedy recently. Of the people in this happy family group, three have taken their own life, none were blood relatives to each other but only connected by marriage.

Finished

2007-05-05T11:22:00.000+01:00

Yes, I've managed to finish some knitting, and it was the socks, Steph! They are being worn as I type.

Not quite finished, but heading that way, my conservatory. There is still the internal plastering and electrics to be done but it is taking shape and I'm very pleased with it.

UFOs and WIPs

2007-05-01T08:21:00.000+01:00

Oh dear. I looked at my basket of WIPs this morning and despaired. I'm sure some of them are going to end up as UFOs if I don't get cracking and complete them.

Trouble is, I'm bored with them all and longing to cast on something new. I really must discipline myself and finish something, probably the socks, as they are nearest to completion.

It's here........

2007-04-28T10:46:00.000+01:00

......... at last! The much anticipated Yarn Forward magazine arrived this morning.

I haven't had much time to look at it yet, but there are some interesting articles, quite a bit on socks and a charming baby Kimono. I can see a long session with a cup of coffee, once Steven is fed.

The conservatory build is progressing with the minimum of disruption, although access to the computer has been limited. Hopefully, construction on the top should start on Monday.

I was told to keep off the wet concrete (goes without saying). When I returned from a visit to the wheelchair clinic with Steven I found this.......
......a row of prints leading to and from the back door! Too small to be any of the builders, further investigation proved it was a neighbour who was looking through the kitchen window to see if I was in! Although she swore the concrete was dry.

Out with the old.......

2007-04-22T16:46:00.000+01:00

.........in with the new, hopefully. Yes, tomorrow work is starting to replace this.......

with a brand new conservatory, twice the size, and rotproof!

The main problem I'm going to face is that my computer room is on the right and to get to it I shall have to take a flying leap from the kitchen door, in the centre, to the door on the right. I shall probably be faced with a large hole especially while the foundations are being dug. This means I may not be able to use the computer for a while. My washing machine is also in this area, so no washing will be done.

Now Steven is getting some respite care, I'm managing to get out more. Yesterday, my mother and I spent the afternoon at Wightwick Manor, a national trust property in Wolverhampton. It is a late Victorian house and a shrine to William Morris. Very OTT but somehow it works.

The gardens were not at their best, despite the early spring, as nothing much was flowering except the wisteria.

Farewell Rose

2007-04-11T16:15:00.000+01:00

Today our Beatties' Knit-Chat group said goodbye to Rose, our leader and mentor. She is off to pastures new at RKM wools in Shrewsbury and I'm sure some of us will be keeping in touch.

Yuca's children had joined us as it was school holidays, her daughter already knits and her son kept us entertained with 'cats cradle'.

Easter Flowers

2007-04-09T10:28:00.000+01:00

Not much completed knitting to report, lots OTNs but not finished.

So here are some treats from the garden.

The Pulsatillas (Pasque Flowers) always make a good show at Easter. I originally had red and blue varieties too, but they disappeared and left only the white, which seeds happily in the gravel.

These pale blue Muscari (Grape Hyacinths) are not as prolific as their darker relatives unfortunately, and are multiplying very slowly.

Most of these are growing close to the house and are likely to be trampled when work starts on the conservatory, so I think I shall have to pot them up until work is finished.

NEC

2007-04-01T18:34:00.000+01:00

On Thursday I was at the Sewing for Pleasure show at the NEC Birmingham. I got the impression that there was rather more knitting content than last time. Of course, I broke my yarn diet, with a modest stash enhancement ............

The Alpaca sock yarn, from Web of Wool was particularly yummy.

Edited for Steph - The unlabelled yarn is from Riverside Spinning, handdyed merino . The man selling this had no website, he said he only sells at shows. It was very reasonably priced and he also had mohair.

I stopped briefly to say hello to Yvonne, Fred et al, but I was with my cousin who is mainly a cross stitcher and had a different agenda, so we moved on. I did take along a knitted Teddy, who has been languishing under Steven's bed for several years, to join Shaun the Sheep's PickKnit. I didn't contribute towards the Knitted Garden, but thought I should donate something this time.

Respite

2007-03-28T09:24:00.000+01:00

Things have started moving on the respite care for Steven. Two lovely ladies arrived on Thursday evening, bathed and fed him and got him ready for bed. Unfortunately he then 'played up' all evening in the only way he can, threatening to be sick, so I was kept busy. Hopefully, he will start getting used to new carers.

On Sunday, they came for the afternoon, so I had a meal out and visited the new Cold War exhibition at RAF Cosford, very interesting, free, and bliss for young boys (and girls) if they are interested in aircraft, rockets etc.

As for knitting, two items have floated to the top of the pile of WIPs.

The sock is making slow progress as it is my KIP project. However, I'm now past the heel.

I've also started a new top for Steven. It is going to be a raglan Hoodie, but I'm not sure that the self striping yarn is the best choice for this design as there is no way the stripes will match up.

Here is progress so far..........

.........and the yarn is.....

Pure wool, machine washes like a dream, and the first sweater I knitted in this is still soft after two years of machine washing.

Now must take myself into the garden to mow the lawn, the sun is shining atm but rain is threatened later.

Just in time

2007-03-19T06:54:00.000Z

I managed to complete this at the weekend.

Just in time as it happens, baby Harvey arrived on Saturday. According to his Grandad, he is a big lad at 8lb. 12ozs. so it was lucky that I decided to make a larger BSJ as the others would have been too small. So a parcel will soon be winging its way up to Yorkshire.

I will soon be invaded by builders as I am having a new conservatory built. The
~~Garden Room,~~ Large Porch , I have at present, has started to rot and it's doubtful if it will last much longer. So, a good opportunity for a bigger, more comfortable room and another knitting area!

Here are a couple of before photos. As you can see it is a dumping ground at the moment so must get on to Freecycle and unload some of the unwanted junk. However, the chair was made by my Grandfather as a nursing chair when I was a baby, so I shall be sad to see it go.

New Jacket

2007-03-08T09:27:00.000Z

Here's a picture of Steven in his new jacket from Rackety's.

I saw this firm mentioned on Emma's blog and thought it would be ideal for Steven. It looks like a conventional front fastening jacket, but actually fastens at the back, so is much easier to get on and off. He also has a foot muff, but will probably not need it until next winter.

Updating

2007-03-05T10:14:00.000Z

I've been updating my links, much easier with Beta. Mind you , looking at the list of blogs I check regularly, I think I need to get a life! I've also changed the template.
Nothing much to report on the knitting, another BSJ, still waiting to have shoulder seams stitched, and buttons attached ...........

and some progress on the 1940s jumper.

I'm feeling the urge to cast on for a sock as I don't have one OTNs at the moment, and this won't do.
I'm still on the yarn diet, although the stash isn't noticably reduced. I have made one book purchase with birthday money. There are one or two patterns I might try, though not, I think, the cover design!

In the garden pool things have gone very quiet. After the flurry a few weeks back, most of the frogs disappeared. A few have come back but no frantic passion and no sign of any frogspawn. I'm sure I've had spawn by this time in previous years so what's the difference this year?

Signs of Spring

2007-02-21T16:07:00.000Z

Lovely sunny day today. Spring seems to be arriving with the pond heaving with frogs (but no spawn yet) and Mrs. Robin collecting nesting material. The crocuses 'Pickwick' are opening once the sun gets to them.

My regular appointment at the diabetic centre was accomplished there and back in an hour, and that included a blood test! I barely had time to get out my knitting, I'd prepared for a whole morning session.

Some knitting has been completed recently. Another Baby Surprise jacket in Colinette Jitterbug 'Marble' and Rowan 4ply soft.

....... and a couple of charity knits. A lap blanket for the local Hospice........

............ and a hat for BISS

Let it snow!

2007-02-08T11:30:00.000Z

The snow promised yesterday arrived this morning. Not much before 9am but it has been coming down steadily all morning so we have quite a covering now in Wolverhampton so Roo will be pleased!

This should mean a good knitting day, but as the lad is not at day care today, because of the snow, I have to keep breaking off to attend to him. Needless to say, he is thoroughly enjoying lazing about.

Progress

2007-02-01T12:02:00.000Z

Yes, I am making some progress on my Stash Busting, and no new yarn was purchased during January. It remains to be seen whether I can be as successful through February.

I have one F.O. a Baby Surprise jacket. Another is on the needles but I forgot to take a photo.

The Log Cabin Afghan is making progress although so far I haven't seen much reduction in the bags of ball ends that I'm using. I think they're starting to breed!

I've also cast on for another project. My cousin is keen for me to dress appropriately for the 1940's weekend in September, so I've started a 1940's jumper. This has involved a considerable sizing up from the 34inch bust size all my genuine patterns seem to be (was no one any larger?) and this is the progress so far. Progress will be slow as the wool is 4ply.

I actually have a large amount of the green wool but at least half has been chewed by moths so tends to fall into short lengths. This doesn't matter too much with stripes. This was a charity shop find so I can't complain.

Early bloomers.......

2007-01-25T11:18:00.000Z

........and some late ones. Yes, the sky really was that blue this morning.

The snowdrops are popping up in various places around the garden.

The hellebores are blooming well............

...........and the Winter Iris have been flowering their socks off since October. Unfortunately slugs, and the weather, have taken their toll, so they're looking a bit chewed.

Completed socks

2007-01-22T11:40:00.000Z

I actually got round to completing my latest socks yesterday evening. The yarn was from Hipknits, but was missing a label so I'm not sure of the fibre . However it is very soft and I would guess that it is Alpaca. To be honest, I'm not sure that they will stand up to hard wear so will probably be lounging-round-the-house socks.

The yarn was D.K. weight, needles size 3.25mm. knitted toe up with short row toe and heel, magic loop. The pattern, Single Eyelet Rib courtesy of Barbara Walker's First Treasury.

Finished with a Picot edge as a cast off edge would have been too tight.

Stash Reduction

2007-01-10T09:22:00.000Z

I've started the New Year by trying to reduce my stash to managable proportions by
Knitting from Stash. I don't know how long I shall keep it up before falling off the wagon, but will try to continue as long as possible. I've started by trying to use up all the odds and ends for my Log cabin Afghan. These three bags are just some of it. If I can reduce it all to just one bag I shall feel I've achieved something.

I received these this week, but they don't count as a purchase for this year as they were chosen and paid for at the end of December............

This is Colinette Jitterbug sock yarn. On the left, Popsicle, lovely colours but much greener than I expected so not really suitable for the project I had in mind; on the right, Marble.
The Popsicle was intended for a Baby Surprise jacket for a cousin's baby due in the spring. As I don't know the sex I think I will end up knitting two. I eventually started in Jaeger 4ply Merino and some left over Lorna's Laces, colour Jaypond, which I think will be more acceptable for a young baby. The Marble will hopefully make a more 'girly' one. This is progress so far.........

Happy New Year

2007-01-03T10:21:00.000Z

Well, all the festivities are over and it's back to the old routine. Steven went back to his day centre yesterday so I have more time during the day for essentials, such as knitting and blogging.

First, I was tagged by Steph to list the six most weird things about myself, so here goes, rather late I'm afraid.

1. I love chocolate, cream cakes, puddings etc. Nothing weird in that you may think, but I am diabetic and I know I shouldn't eat them, but I do and suffer and feel ill afterwards. Therefore I try not to have them in the house.

2. I drink very little alcohol, an occasional glass of sherry or wine to be sociable. I don't enjoy the taste and to be honest can't see what all the fuss is about. I would rather spend my money on yarn ( or chocolate.)

3. I don't drive. I lived in London for many years and never felt the need to learn. Given no. 2 above this is considered a waste of a non drinker by others in the family.

4. I also have never smoked.

5. I seem to have a need to be untidy. I feel uncomfortable if I'm sitting down without being surrounded by yarn, magazines etc. Of course, this leads to frantic tidying when visitors arrive.

6. Jobs always get put off until tomorrow, or preferably the day after.

Most people have done this already, but if not, consider yourself tagged.

Now for some knitting content. I'm trying to knit from stash as a new year resolution so have started a Stash Buster log cabin afghan. Here is progress so far.

I'm trying to use yarn that I'm unlikely to need for any other project so some of the colours are a bit dull. However it's a nice mindless T.V. knit and a good way of use up small amounts of yarn, mostly D.K. or 4ply doubled.