Pattern: Improvised using the basic instructions from Lucy Collin's Han Solo pattern. Pattern no longer available for individual sale. You can find it in this book available from Amazon (affiliate link).
Yarn: Green- Spunky Eclectic Victoria in the Ginko Colorway. Cream- Knit Picks Wool of the Andes in Cloud. Brown- Cascade 220 Superwash.
Yarn: Battenkill Fiber Mill Yarn (from Rhinebeck 2019). No label or other details available
Needles: US 8 (5.0 mm)
Mock i-cord edging with garter stitch for the center. Small number of increases at the beginning and decreases at the end. Will have to see if we want to add some icords onto the sweater to hold the belt or not.
Wave of Change Jacket
Pattern: Wave of Change Jacket by Denise Bayron ($9 US knitting pattern)
Yarn: Battenkill Fiber Mill Yarn (from Rhinebeck 2019). No label or other details available
Needles: US 8 (5.0 mm) for body. US 6 (4.0 mm) for ribbing.
Size 3, 45” bust because it calls for 2-4 inches of positive ease.
Switch to Lykke Needles for body. Thought I was using 32”. Was maybe 24.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Crafty Adventures
Vlogmas 2022! 3rd year doing this project on my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel. You can find the playlist here.
Christmas Day video still to come.
In My Travels
I went to Las Vegas with my parents, my brother Jeff and our friends Trish and Thayer from December 13-19th.
We visited the Hoover Dam, went ziplining down Fremont Street, had a couple really swanky dinners out including one at the Paris hotel on the Vegas strip overlooking the Bellagio fountains, did a bit of gambling on the slot machines, attended a Gatsby themed wedding and my brother and I ended the trip with a heck of a Patriots/Raiders game at the new Allegiant Stadium.
Check out our amazing Sponsors! Click here for the Google doc with their websites and Instagram profiles.
Check out the list of availableCoupons from our amazing sponsors- Ravelry Link. Google Doc.
Check out the Pigskin Exclusive Items in this Ravelry Thread
Important Updates in this Episode
Thanks to everyone who participated in our:
December Hat Interception hosted by Cori Eichelberger (irocknits) & Monique Leonard (Windswept Knits). Check out irocknits patterns on Ravelry & Windswept Monique’s patterns on Ravelry. Find all of the Challenge details in this Google Doc-
Gratitude WIP Bonus: finish up WIPs started 9/22/22 or earlier (with a finish date of 11/24-12/31/22) and you can earn some bonus points. Check out all of the details & rules in this Doc- Gratitude WIP Bonus
Night Bright Challenge: ends 12/31 get your entries into the Ravelry Thread
Tune in to hear if you won a participation prize for November
THANK YOU to Wendy, our Umpire, and Alicia, Heather and Emily, our fabulous commissioners!
Life in Focus
I'm starting my year in review process. In 2020 I recorded a video about that which you can find on my YouTube Channel. Check out that video here
Tune in to hear the answers to these questions asked by listeners:
How is your Mom doing? I'm praying for her.
I want to hear about your advent knits
Knitting projects
What was the make you most enjoyed making? What memory makes you happiest?
Your plans for 2023, how you're holding up with all that's going on in your world.
New Years Cast On Plans
On a Happy Note
Going to see Six with my bestie, Kris.
My friend Liz came over on the Thursday before Christmas to help me wrap. It was a good thing we finished because that night the power went out.
Friday morning I went to the ocean to see the waves crashing in after the bombcylone blew through.
Christmas Eve at my cousin Susan's- visit with Santa, cutting Mom's hair and a funny exchange where Santa thought I was the mother of one of my cousin's kids.
Sleeping over Mom's on Christmas night, watching movies and playing Tock with Mom, Riley and Millie.
Christmas morning snuggles with my youngest nephew, Zachary. Silly Christmas games Gail set up at my parents- Cling Wrap Game and the bows game (new to us this year). Stay tuned for the video to come soon!
2 unexpected packages- one from Woolen Women Fibers and one from Suzanne, SewRunKnit, who sent three beautiful chemo caps for Mom/donation.
Quote of the Week
There are years that ask questions and years that answer.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Pattern: Musselburgh by Ysolda Teague (6 GBP pattern available on Ravelry & Ysolda's website)
Needles: US 2 (2.75 mm)
Yarn: Malabrigo Sock in Colorway 195 Black & Bumblebee Acres Farm Squishy Sock in the Rainbow Room Colorway
Cast on using crochet magic circle to create number of CO sts called for in the pattern. Chose that because you can pull it tight. I then picked up and knit into those stitches.
I knit the Adult Medium and switched to a 16" cord once I had the full number of stitches. I knit 10 inches of black before starting in with the rainbow stripes.
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Portal Socks
Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz Steel Toes Base in the Portal Colorway
Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
Yarn purchased at Vogue Knitting Live January 2020 with Lauren. Planned to make a 2 color shawl. Cast on My Cryptonite by Melanie Berg and never got more than a couple inches in. Here's the Ravelry Project Page for the shawl that's now frogged.
I've losing mojo on this so it will be going into hibernation until after Christmas.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
KAL News
Pigskin Party'22: The Official Hashtag is #DCSPigskinParty22
Get ready for our December Hat Interception hosted by Cori Eichelberger (irocknits) & Monique Leonard (Windswept Knits). Check out irocknits patterns on Ravelry & Windswept Monique’s patterns on Ravelry. Find all of the Challenge details in this Google Doc-
Announcement of the Gratitude WIP Bonus: finish up WIPs started 9/22/22 or earlier (with a finish date of 11/24-12/31/22) and you can earn some bonus points. Check out all of the details & rules in this Doc- Gratitude WIP Bonus
Contest, News & Notes
There will be no second podcast episode in November.
Last time I shared that my Mom's lung cancer has returned. We've since learned that the cancer has transitioned to small cell lung cancer which is more aggressive and will require more aggressive chemo. Keep those thoughts & prayers coming.
“We may, by fixing our attention almost fiercely on the facts actually before us, force them to turn into adventures; force them to give up their meaning and fulfill their mysterious purpose.”
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
I knit cuff down, so it was a bit of project to cut off the top of the sock, unravel back to the stockinette. Worked back up and used Jeny’s surprisingly stretchy bind off to finish them.
Pattern: Musselburgh by Ysolda Teague (6 GBP pattern available on Ravelry & Ysolda’s website)
Needles: US 2 (2.75 mm)
Yarn: Malabrigo Sock in Colorway 195 Black
Cast on using crochet magic circle to create number of CO sts called for in the pattern. Chose that because you can pull it tight. I then picked up and knit into those stitches.
Colin & Nora’s Christmas Stockings
Pattern: Christmas Stockings to Knit and Crochet from Family Circle Magazine. Available in this web archive link. I’ve also saved it to my podcast Gmail Google Drive in case it disappears!
Yarn from Legacy Fiber Artz- Pigskin Party Snack Shack Sponsor
Yarn- speckles. Mostly reads pink/maroons. so many tiny specks of color. taupe, green, blue, purple, gray/brown.
Progress- 1st sock finished. 2nd sock has several inches done on the leg
2021 Scrappy Socks
Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
Yarn: sock yarn minis and scraps
Ravelry Project Page (started in April 2021. Picked back up in September 2022)
In this project, I used Helical knitting using Video Tutorial from Knitty Natty & Cate’s Clasp Weft join- check out my YouTube Tutorial by clicking here.
Progress- 1st sock finished. 2nd cuff finished + an inch or so of the leg. Helical knitting made these so much more interesting to me. Game changer.
First Point of Libra Cowl
Pattern: First Point of Libra Cowl by Laura Aylor
Needles: US 3 (3.25 mm)
Yarn: Barnyard Knits, Fuse Fiber Studio, One Twisted Tree (shop formerly own Prairie Girl Danie) + other leftover sock yarn
Yarn purchased at Vogue Knitting Live January 2020 with Lauren. Planned to make a 2 color shawl. Cast on My Cryptonite by Melanie Berg and never got more than a couple inches in. Here’s the Ravelry Project Page for the shawl that’s now frogged.
Inspiration color= Barnyard Knits- Pricky Pear (multi- has grays, greens and pinks). Matches new long, green, quilted coat from J. Jill. Plus Fuse Merino Sock in Mercury Glass (gray) & Fuse in Radical Acceptance (pink)
I think this project would be great for small scraps because even though each section calls for X number of rows, you could easily modify it and have wider or thinner stripes in each direction.
Spinning
4oz of 100% Natural Cotswold purchased from Long Island Livestock Company at Rhinebeck for $20. Beautiful tan color.
No real plan or prep. Just enjoying the process.
Brainstorming
I’d like to make a fingering weight hat using yarns from the First Point of Libra Cowl to bring to the UK in November.
Found yarn for Megg’s next Nanaimo Cardigan for Christmas- Lion Brand Wool Ease Thick & Quick in the Abalone Colorway. Ordered from Joann.com
From the Armchair
On a Quiet Street by Seraphina Nova Glass. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link.Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Knitting in Passing
I shared stories about a women who took my knitting from me on the train and started knitting it herself, about how Hattie thought my Mom’s cowl was the funniest beard she ever saw, how I was recognized by a local knitting in the lobby of a theater during intermission and about a chat with lovely woman at my local nail salon.
In My Travels
Rhinebeck 2022: Mom, Ryan, Nicki & I had a whirlwind weekend at CAKEPalooza and Rhinebeck- the NY Sheep & Wool Festival. Come along and enjoy the sights and sounds of the trip in this video on the
In November I’m going to the UK. I’ll be visiting Manchester, Newbury & London, England & Cardiff, Wales. Do you have any tips or suggestions for me? Restaurants, shops, best ways to get theater tickets etc.
KAL News
Pigskin Party’22: The Official Hashtag is #DCSPigskinParty22
The October Interception Winner will be shared in early November in the Ravelry Group & in the next episode. Thanks again to Sunsoaked Yarns for hosting!
Rule update: you need to have a Unique URL for each submission. Check out this Ravelry Post for details. I’ve also updated the Official Rules.
This year we’ll have 10 grand prizes! Will share details in the group soon!
Life in Focus
Quick health update on Mom who was diagnosed with Stage 4 Lung Cancer on December 1, 2021. Her October scans showed new tumors in the pleura (lining) of her lungs which aren’t responding to her Tagrisso gene therapy medicine. They’ll be doing a biopsy to see if they can tell why it is resistant and perhaps there is another drug they can try. Since that will take about a month before we have results, she’ll be starting chemotherapy in the meantime. 1st infusion on November 4th. Send out all those good wishes.
You can check out the video we recorded together if you want to hear more. The first 40 minutes are really just a recap of our spring, summer and fall fun- complete with photos and videos.
Sharon of Knit Style Yarns just released her first pattern- Celtic Christmas Cowl ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) & kindly gifted me a copy. Thank you Sharon & congrats!
I went to see Sweeney Todd at Company Theater with Mom, Terri & Emelyn.
My cousin Colleen got married last weekend! She looked beautiful. The wedding was perfect. They had cider donuts instead of wedding cake! Mom & my 94 year old Aunt Florence who also has cancer, set Colleen’s wedding as their goal and they were both there with big smiles and so much energy. Dancing and laughing. We are all so grateful for that. Colin and Nora whooping it up on the dance floor. Colleen & her Dad dancing in the trolley all the way back to the hotel with Dan and my cousin Joanie’s husband using their phone flashlights to create a strobe effect!
Oisin and Dan working to cut and stack wood. Made Oisin a batch of applesauce even though I haven’t had time to teach him how to make it yet.
My cousins sent me a beautiful bouquet of flowers. Total surprise.
20 years at my day job. Dinner celebration postponed but Dan and I look forward to going to that in early 2023. I got to pick out a gift from an online catalog. I picked an Air Fryer so hit me with your best vegetarian air fryer recipes!
Our contractor starting putting new railings on our deck.
We attended my cousins (Pat & Kevin’s) joint Surprise Costume Birthday Party. Mom, Dad, Dan and I dressed up in a Little Mermaid Theme!
We saw a local production of Guys & Dolls. Megg is a Hot Box Dancer. Oisin was a Gambler. They were both great!
Quote of the Week
There is the touch of November in the air, chill enough to have a slight tang, like properly aged cider. Not air that caresses, nor yet air that nips. Air that makes one breathe deeply and think of spring water and walk briskly.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Needles: US 10 for the body. US 8 for the neck ribbing. US 9 for the bottom hem and non-button band ribbing sections.
Yarns Used: Goosey Fibers, Sunsoaked Yarns, Hypnotic Yarn, Ross Farm (Henrietta), McKnits, Teenie Button Studio, Legacy Fiber Artz ,Spitfire & Fury DK+ my own handspun+ others!
Modifications in the sleeves- after the first 3 decreases, I changed to doing decreases every other round until I got to the designated stitch count. Finished in the 3rd color stripe.
If you’re weary of marling, choose colors that are similar in value. Mixing a white with a dark color like black, dark purple or maroon is going to be a very stark contrast. I don’t always love that.
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Woolens & Nosh Socks
Yarn: Woolens and Nosh 90% SW Targhee, 10% Nylon 3 Ply Yarn (411 yards / 100 grams) in the Sprout Colorway
Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
Sprout- 10 stripe- Light yellow, peach, ballet pink, maroon, dusty blue, kelly green, taupe, lighter grass green, cream, pale green.
Yarn from Woolens & Nosh- Pigskin Party Pro Shop Sponsor
Project Bag- Pigskin ’22 Exclusive from Anne Beady Designs
Brainstorming
Christmas ideas- like these cute crocheted pieces that attach to a large wooden ring. You put them over the bar on the oven or dishwasher and then you can hang a dishtowel from the wooden ring. Here’s a Pinterest link for a crochet option.
Aila wants a fox.
Oisin wants an alien.
Hattie wants a unicorn because she thinks hers was lost. TBD.
From the Armchair
The Girl Next Door Podcast: I thoroughly enjoyed their annual Fall Extravaganza episodeand this year was no exception.
I didn’t especially enjoy the Serial Podcast recent update about Adnan Syed’s case but I was relieved to hear that Syed was officially ruled out as a suspect in the murder of Hae Min Lee in 1999 (though he served 23 years in prison)
Congrats to Syed & and his family and especially his fierce friend and advocate Rabia Chaudry. Check out this video on Rabia’s Instagram Feed for more details.
Listen to Season 1 of Undisclosed if you want more about this case (especially if you only ever listed to Serial).
Highlights- getting to see Cheryl & Jess from Hypnotic Yarn. Getting to see (and purchase) Pigskin sponsor Mcknits Yarn in person at Plymouth Harbor Knits
Check out our amazing Sponsors! Click here for the Google doc with their websites and Instagram profiles.
Check out the list of availableCoupons from our amazing sponsors- Ravelry Link. Google Doc.
Check out the Pigskin Exclusive Items in this Ravelry Thread
Important Updates in this Episode
Check out October’s Coin Toss Interception hosted by Sunsoaked Yarns. Click here for the Ravelry Thread or here for the Google Doc with all the details you need.
Will announce first of the Participation prizes in the next episode!
Our well is at a normal level again! Cooking & doing laundry feels like a privilege when you haven’t been able to do it for months.
We have some Sneaky Pumpkins growing near our deck (where last year’s pumpkins must have met their demise!)
Apple Picking- my favorite day of the year
Kids working around the yard with Dan. Getting firewood chopped and stacked. They moved our back steps to get ready for new railings that we’re hiring a contractor to install.
My Dad turned 70! We had a super fun party for him at my parents’ house. I had a nasty cold which was a bummer for me, but otherwise it was great.
Merry Everything & Happy Always Yarn Swap is open for sign ups. Thanks to those who knew I wanted to sign up and made sure I got in there. Swap Partners will be assigned on 10/16 so get into the Between Knits & Purls Ravelry Group ASAP if you want to join.
24 mini skeins/balls of 5-7 grams each (Fingering/Sock Yarn)
I got self striping from Desert Vista Dyeworks yarn in the mail + my October Yarnable Subscription Box. Check out my Yarnable Unboxing Video on my YouTube Channel.
Quote of the Week
To improve the golden moment of opportunity, and catch the good that is within our reach, is the great art of life.–SAMUEL JOHNSON
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
I messed up on a slipped stitch section in the decrease side, so I am going to continue it a few more times so it looks intentional, though you can hardly tell with the handspun.
Portal Socks
Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz Steel Toes Base in the Portal Colorway
Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
A take-off on my Sagamore Flyover Hat available on Ravelry & LoveCrafts.
2021 Scrappy Socks
Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
Yarn: sock yarn minis and scraps
Ravelry Project Page (started in April 2021. Picked back up in September 2022)
In this project, I used Helical knitting using Video Tutorial from Knitty Natty & Cate’s Clasp Weft join- check out my YouTube Tutorial by clicking here.
Should I cast on a Wave of Change Jacket by Denise Bayron to match Mom’s at Rhinebeck? $10 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry
Top down open front cardigan mostly stockinette w/ periodic purl ridges.
Mom’s is tunic length. I think I’d make my cropped to wear as a layering piece. Thinking mustard.
This blog post by Susanna Winter has a great formula to help you figure out holding strands of various weights of yarn together to equal a different weight of yarn.
Beth sent me Instagram stories from FashionSchoolDropOut who made one with worsted and 2 strands of sock. Changed colors after each purl bump.
Thanks to AJ for recommending Fundamentals of Caring with Paul Rudd (2016 movie). Available on Netflix. I’m planning to watch it soon.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Knitting in Passing
Take Back Bags from For Days does accept yarn. Thanks Rachel Kashani.
Cost $20. They mail you a bag (takes 3 weeks to ship)
The Large Bag measures 24 in x 24 in and fits 15 lbs
Mail back with USPS. You will get a $20 credit to spend with them
KAL News
Pigskin Party’22: The Official Hashtag is #DCSPigskinParty22
Check out our amazing Sponsors! Click here for the Google doc with their websites and Instagram profiles.
Check out the list of availableCoupons from our amazing sponsors- Ravelry Link. Google Doc.
Check out the Pigskin Exclusive Items in this Ravelry Thread
Important Updates in this Episode
Thanks to everyone who participated in our Kick Off Events. Beth joined us from the hospital. AJ, from South Africa, and EJ from South Korea joined us from all sorts of crazy time zones! So great to see so many familiar faces in long time friends and to also get to know some of the newbies a little better.
Tailgate Talk -ended 9/23 but you can enter for your points through 9/30 on the Points Tally Form.
Fistbumps & Fives: Send some positivity to one of your Teammates, Opponents or Commissioners. Complete this challenge anytime between 9/20-9/30 and enter on the Points Tally Form to earn 100 bonus points. You’ll need a link to your Ravelry or Instagram Post for validation. Enter your points by 9/30. Check out the details in the Ravelry Group or in this Google Doc.
Check out October’s Coin Toss Interception hosted by Sunsoaked Yarns. Click here for the Ravelry Thread or here for the Google Doc with all the details you need.
Wool & Folk Event– October 14th from 12p until 7p in Kingston, NY. Tickets still available. $45. 25 vendors. Podcaster Patio. 5 podcasts represented Outdoors. Food trucks and music.
CAKEpalooza: October 14 from 10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. with ticketed & timed slots in Saugerties, NY
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Yarn: Fingering held double. Knit Picks Stroll Tweed in the Wellies Heather Colorway (black) & YarnBaker Fingering Weight Yarn in the Blazer colorway (blue)
Check out our amazing Sponsors! Click here for the Google doc with their websites and Instagram profiles.
Check out the list of availableCoupons from our amazing sponsors- Ravelry Link
Check out the Pigskin Exclusive Items in this Ravelry Thread
Tip from Sarah- Imagined Landscapes- on Watching or Ignoring Team Threads:
You can set Ravelry Threads to watch or ignore.
Watching a thread means it will pop up to the highest point under the stickied threads if there‘s a new post.
Ignoring a thread means you never see it again – I use it to clear up teams I‘m not on so there‘s less visual clutter for my PSP.
Check out this page on Ravelry for instructions on how to Ignore a Thread.
Fist Bumps & Fives Challenge– check out this link for details. Complete this challenge anytime between 9/20-9/30 and enter on the Points Tally Form to earn 100 bonus points. You’ll need a link to your Ravelry or Instagram Post for validation. Enter for points between 9/23-9/30.
Jasmin’s Stash Dash Spreadsheet Tracker- Google Doc
Cape & South Shore Yarn Haul- Thursday 9/29 through Sunday 10/2. Check out their Event Website for details. Facebook Page available here. Pro Shop Sponsor Anne Beady will be at Salt Yarn Studio on Thursday 9/29 with her beautiful bags & design samples!
Dan and I did a big cellar clean-out over Labor Day weekend.
We enjoyed a big pool day (Oisin and Eme practiced their diving, Hattie practiced her swimming with Auntie Di) over Labor Day Weekend. We followed that with a clam bake, a belated birthday celebration for Oisin who turned 14 in June (while still in Ireland).
Oisín working with Dan in the yard again this fall. They uncovered an impromptu pumpkin patch that sprung up next to our deck!
We had our first fire of the fall. Pizza and beer after the boys were done working. Hattie (age 4) asked “are you gonna knit with me?” I asked if she was going to knit with ME! And she did.
We enjoyed our last pool day and family trip to Hornstra for ice cream!
Quote of the WeekAt some point in life the world’s beauty becomes enough. You don’t need to photograph, paint or even remember it. It is enough.–TONI MORRISONMusic -“Soft Orange Glow” by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/——Thank you for tuning in.Remember show notes for this episode can be found at www.downcellarstudio.com/#If you have a moment to leave a review on Apple Podcasts, I’d greatly appreciate it.I can be found on Ravelry as BostonJen and I’d love it if you came over to join our lively and engaged Down Cellar Studio Ravelry Group.Check me out on Instagram at BostonJen1 if you want to see what I’m up to between episodes.Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube ChannelEmail me at downcellarstudio@gmail.com For website:Thank you for tuning in! Contact Information:
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Omitting all increases//decreases to keep the bottom at the end of the tie flat not pointed.
Finished tie is over 60 inches long.
126.6 meters
3 skeins in my Candombe Project- check out my Ravelry Project Page
2 skeins of 2ply yarn. Wool of the Andes Unspun Roving. Colorway: Delft Heather (100 grams) 100% Peruvian Highland Wool. & Malabrigo in the Candombe Colorway
2 ply-60 inch loop. 242 wraps.12,762 inches or 410 yards. 324 meters. Stash Dash- 324 x3= 972 meters
2 ply-59 inch loop. 81 wraps4,779 inches or 133 yards. 121 meters. Stash Dash= 121 x 3= 363 meters
1 skein of a 3 ply. those 2 singles plus 1 other random tan colored singles.
60 inch loop 38 wraps.2,280 inches or 63 yards. 57 meters Stash Dash= 57 x4= 228 meters
Stash Dash Meters for this project: 1563 meters. All measurements taken after washing skeins
1 skein of yarn in Greens & Blues
Blues: Included singles from Kingdom Fleece & Fiber Works 100% Tunis Pete’s Fleece
21 rows total. 12 or 13 hexis depending on the column.
SCing them together with 2 strands like I am for the hexagons themselves. A great way to use up very small scraps because I only ever seam 3 sides together.
Working my way from the dark side to the light side when I pulled some hexis out of the bag where I was storing them- and pulled out a huge piece which I had forgotten I’d seamed together. It was the far right column and part of the top row of the light side! At least I realized it when I did, and only had to rip back a small bit of what I had already done.
I used safety pins and paper with notes to indicate which hexi was the start/end of each column. Worked like a charm and I didn’t have any other issues after that.
Border- 1 round SC, 4 rounds HDC around.
switch light to dark gray to match blanket.
Size (before washing) 45 in wide by 66 inches long
1976 grams total- almost 20 skeins of yarn!
Marled= 400 grams
Patons= 450 grams
1126 grams of everything else
7,176 meters
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Recollection Blanket
Pattern: Recollection by Deanne Ramsay ($6 crochet pattern available on Ravelry & Etsy– written in both US & UK Crochet terms)
Yarn: Various full skeins and 20+ gram fingering weight yarn stash.
Yarn: Fingering held double. Knit Picks Stroll Tweed in the Wellies Heather Colorway (black) & YarnBaker Fingering Weight Yarn in the Blazer colorway (blue)
Rhinebeck sweaters. Wave of Change Jacket by Denise Bayron to match the one I made Mom for Christmas 2020. Check out the Ravelry Project Page for her sweater.
Use up some handspun for us to wear. Thinking of The Shift (Cowl) by Andrea Mowry (available on Ravelry & on the Drea Renee Knits Website for $7 US)
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Crafty Adventures
Decorations and costumes for Megg’s Gatsby party.
Bought nearly all of it second hand. Gold and silver candles, candle holders, vases and glasses.
Got pink feather fan looking things on Clearance at Michaels along with what looks like sparkly crystal pink gravel. Put on silver and gold chargers under/around candles.
Spray painted feathers and sticks. Put in a large silver vase and added pearls strung through for centerpiece.
Knitting in Passing
This week, I shared a story about a man I encountered on the train who talked about his family’s history with fiber arts and the sewing he did in the Army.
Wool & Folk Event– October 14th from 12p until 7p in Kingston, NY. Tickets still available. $45.
On a Happy Note
Mom’s August scans look good despite having to come off her gene therapy medicine because of severe and painful issues with the skin and nails on her hands.
Dinner with my parents, brother and grandmother for her 87th birthday!
Visiting Dan’s friend Perry’s for his 81st Birthday. We found a local bakery that makes delicious pies. Great find.
Pool Days!
Queen Cover Band at South Shore Music Circus, after which my brother stayed over. He, Dan and I stayed up late talking.
Mid-week trip out to Northampton with Kris & Megg for the Indigo Girls concert! We bought matching tank tops & wore them hiking the next morning. Every person we saw commented on them and asked if we were in some kind of club!
Megg’s Gatsby Party!
Hiking in Wompatuck w/ Megg now that she’s back from Ireland.
Shopping at Ollie’s with Mom, Trish and Theresa. It’s very similar to Building 19 which is an old-school New England favorite for bargain shopping.
Watching Aila dance in the Cabaret show and Hattie (age 4) cheering her on (and having to stop her from dancing too much in the audience). I also got to see Eme for the first time since they got back from Ireland.
Mom’s eBay New England Seller’s Meet Up Group met for the first time since Covid this week! Had fun catching up with her crew. Check out their Facebook group here.
Quote of the Week
Yet occasionally we discover in the folds of an old handkerchief a shell or insignificant stone that had once embodied our happiest of afternoons.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 237 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. For full show notes with photos, please check out my website: www.downcellarstudio.com/237
This week’s segments included:
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
From the Armchair
In my Travels
KAL News
Events
On a Happy Note
Quote of the Week
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Shawl Design
I finished up the sample for a new shawl design using a 150g skein of fingering weight from agirlandherwool in the On the Boardwalk. I lost at yarn chicken andended up finding another similar colorway in leftovers bin. I think it was Queen City Pigskin Colorway- the Huddle is Real.
The finished shawl weighs 160 grams
676.8 meters for Stash Dash
Tiles for Miles Blanket
Pattern: Tiles for Miles Crochet Baby Blanket by Yarnspirations. Free crochet pattern available on the Yarnspirations website
Yarn: Knit Picks Brava Worsted. Mint for MC. Many colors of greens, blues and grays for Contrast Colors.
Planned for 20 columns total. 11 or 13 hexis depending on the column.
SCing them together with 2 strands like I am for the hexagons themselves. A great way to use up very small scraps because I only ever seam 3 sides together.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
In My Travels
Camping at On the Saco Campground in Fryeburg ME
2 days paddling. 9 miles each day
Thurs night went to Saco River Brewing then to the restaurant next door.
2,268 Sponsor Products used in the creation of the 1022 FOs
33 Participation Prizes
30 Final Prizes
Thank you to Wendy and Jen!!!!! Tune in to hear if you’re one of our end of the summer winners! I will email all winners within a week of this recording.
Second hand shopping. I bought a beautiful cedar entertainment center.
Dan, Laura, Aila and I all had sleepovers at Mom & Dad’s. Pool time, ice cream and penny drop.
The Rowans are home from Ireland!
Tuesday August 9 we celebrated Mom & Hattie’s half birthdays at the beach.
Camping!
Sunday- pooltime and dinner with Mom, Dad and my brother, Jeff.
Quote of the Week
For nothing is fixed, forever and forever and forever, it is not fixed; the earth is always shifting, the light is always changing, the sea does not cease to grind down rock.–JAMES BALDWIN
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Changed color plan- after purchasing new pillows for our couch. Pinks, peach, orange, yellow. bits of tan and purple.
Blanket is 56 inches wide (not including the fringe).
Shawl Design
Sideways shawl design that I had to rip back to center (after finishing the increases) because I wasn’t happy with how decreases are laying. Figured out what I needed to fix. Ripped back a lot, finally got back to virgin yarn again.
Take a Hike: A Long walk on the Appalachian Trail by Tim Hewitt. Amazon Affiliate Link.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
All projects must be finished by the end of the day (your time) on Sunday July 31, 2022). All entries must be submitted via the Summer Celebration Form by Friday 8/5/22.
823 projects entered so far!3,404 entries for prizes!!
Will announce winners of our final prizes in Episode 237!
90 min massage was great even though it left my calves with polka dot bruises
Beachside drinks and dinner with my bestie Kris, my mom and hers.
Not so happy about wrist pain that lasted for about 4 days but it passed quickly.
Furniture shopping with Mom. First night out we got a bookcase about 27 baskets for me. I took Friday off of work, and we did some more furniture shopping.
I went to the Keith Urban Concert with the fam including a few of our cousins, followed by family sleepover at Mom & Dads that turned into two 90+ degree pool days. Floating. Diving contests. Penny drop (if you want to play this game with your family consider using my Amazon Affiliate link for purchase)
Cardio jazz class with my girlfriends.
Being eligible to donate blood again- 1 year after treatment from Lyme disease ended.
Going to the Red Sox/Gaurdians Game for the David Ortiz Hall of Fame Induction Celebration.
Quote of the Week
I believe one thing; that today is yesterday and tomorrow is today and you can’t stop.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Cast on Sunday July 10th beginning of Knitty Natty’s Sock Week. Check out her YouTube Channel if you haven’t already
Finished heel on Wednesday. Into the foot on Thursday.
You can still get your official logo bag and sock set on the Woolen Women Website
Brainstorming
Pattern: Recollection by Deanne Ramsay. Ravelry Link to Pattern. Blog Link. $6 US “Designed to utilise all those leftovers that seem too small to be useful, but too precious to throw away, this blanket can be made in any size and with any yarn weight.Use your chosen
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Knitting in Passing
A lady asked what I was knitting during the opening act of The Chicks concert. She said she’s an avid knitter too.
Helped a new hat knitter find needles in Michaels
I received a text from my friend Laura’s pilates client, David, of his bright Felici Socks in his work pants/shoes in a conference room in summer.
Need to post a photo of completed Bingo with #CCRRsummerbingo2021 to Instagram or Ravelry
Sock Week with Knitty Natty. July 10-17th. I’ll be co-hosted an event with Natalie on Tuesday July 12th at 8p Eastern! If you paid for the option that includes this -you can watch the replay!
The New York Sheep & Wool Festival in Rhinebeck, NY will be held October 15 & 16, 2022
Life in Focus
I reviewed my: Word of the Year: Pause
Primary Goals:
Move your body 4 days a week. Any movement for 15 minutes or more counts.
January: 19 workouts/4 weeks= 4.75 times per week.
February: 12 workouts/ 4 weeks= 3 per week
March: 13 workouts
April: 13 workouts
May: 8 workouts
June- 21 workouts
86= divide by 26 weeks of the years- 3.3
Say Yes to time spent with Mom – that’s going well!
Journaling. Major fail on journal except for tracking mom’s important health details, taking as many photos as I can, and doing my 1 line a day journal.
Ask Me Anything
Val asked if I’d seen any interesting wildlife on my walks lately. We have a new fawn in the yard. The hawks are especially loud! I found some interesting information on the Mass Audubon website. I think the ones near us are the Red-tailed hawks.
On a Happy Note
Laura’s visit. Pool day. Heidi’s for ice cream. Consignment shopping- where we scored, clothes, jewelry and a new/old mirror for our guest room which Dan hung this week.
Laura left Sunday of July 4th weekend. Dan and I worked around house Monday morning then enjoy the pool in the afternoon & dinner with fresh local corn with Mom and Dad.
The Chicks concert with Mom, Dad, Jeff and Riley- tailgaiting, sneaking in my knitting & singing our lungs out!
Trish’s 50th birthday at the Japanese Hibachi and pool day.
Dinner and pool night with Mom, Dad and Millie. Millie and I picked wild blueberries. I found necklaces that say Fearless for Mom, Riley, Millie and Me.
Quote of the Week
One discovers the light in darkness, that is what darkness is for; but everything in our lives depends on how we bear the light. –JAMES BALDWIN
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Three Waters farm Fiber- Forested Hills Colorway (blues & greens). Three Waters Farm Corriedale- pulled out the blues/greens and yellows pulled from the Quintessence colorway. Rhapsody Fiber Arts- 2oz 50% Angora/50% merino no colorway- lighter blue.
Pattern: Cozy Clusters Baby Blanket by Leelee Knits (free & paid options available on the LeeLeeKnits website)
Yarn: Knit Picks Brava 500 in the Peacock colorway (Main), Brava in the Dove Heather Colorway (gray), and Craft Smart Value Yarn in the Neon Yellow Colorway
Hooks: 5.5mm (J) for the cast on & 6.0mm (I) for the body
Acquiring 2 bags of yarn from a friend moving on from knitting into quilting. Not sure what I can make out of her stash, but very much looking forward to giving that a go.
I have all sorts of blanket mojo. If you do too, check out some of these charities excepting donations.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Some Years Later
I crocheted in 2018. Check out my Ravelry Project Page here. Pattern is the Easy Breezy Swim Cover by Megan Shaimes (free on the Meg Made with Love Blog or ad-free for $3.50 on Etsy).
Knitting in Passing
Millie called me to re-learn the purl but she knew how to do it after all.
While waiting for a train, a lady sat down and asked if this was the knitting bench. She pulled out a lime green dish cloth she brought with her to knit on while waiting for an appointment.
As I was getting off train the other day, a man asked when I was done crocheting what was my project going to be. He said he looked forward to seeing my progress if he sees me again.
Jasmin’s Stash Dash Spreadsheet Tracker- Google Doc
Jasmin is 1700 meters ahead, but we still have 2 full months! I am planning to go to Rhinebeck and look forward to the satisfcation of having her hand over our Sash!
Life in Focus
Furious about the Supreme Court’s overturning of Roe versus Wade? Check out this website Action For All (choice.crd.co). It is really easy to navigate website that gives options for where to donate, volunteer, protest, and to find access to healthcare including abortion including region specific links.
I also invite you to check out the Earbuds Collective recommendations for podcasts on the topic of Abortion.
On a Happy Note
Dancing in the 40th Anniversary Recital & a fun after party.
Millie’s impromptu sleepover. pancakes and hike before heading to dad’s for Father’s Day
Father’s Day- too cold for a pool day, but we had fun inside playing games.
Carly’s bridal shower
Riley graduated 8th grade!.
Pool Day with Mom’s eBay friends + a few of our friends too.
Quote of the Week
Beauty is as much about how and whether you look as what you see. –JOHN GREEN
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
This 3 ply skein is 31 inches long from end to end, or 62 inches per wrap of the noddy noddy. 106 wraps= 6,572 inches or 166.9 meters for Stash Dash (because the fiber went through the orifice 4 times)
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Shawl Design
I shared some preliminary details about a new design idea using a 150g skein of fingering weight from agirlandherwool in the On the Boardwalk colorway.
Meggsie/Marta Scrappy Socks
Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
Yarn: Patons Kroy Socks FX in the Geranium Colors Colorway (leftover from Marta’s Socks) & Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Double Dog Dare Colorway (leftover from Meggsie’s socks) + also added yarn from Aila’s dance socks.
Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
Baker Street Colorway (Ravelry Page), Desert Rose (Ravelry Page), Bayou Colorway (Ravelry Page) Psychedelic Rainbow (Ravelry Page- used a Lemonade Shop yarn for heel)
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Knitting in Passing
Kris’ Felici sock (Ravelry Project Page) blew out after just more than a year but keep in mind that Kris wears her socks daily from October- May and teaches dance in them.
In My Travels
I shared some stories about my recent trip to Ireland, Scotland and Spain. Patrons, don’t forget to check out the Patreon feed for blog posts, photos and a Google Album of my trip pictures.
Irocknitters KAL hosted by Cori (Irocknits Designs, also a Splash Pad Sponsor). Check out this post in her Ravelry Group. KAL runs from April 25th through June 30, 2022.
Jasmin’s Stash Dash Spreadsheet Tracker- Google Doc
On a Happy Note
Girls weekend with Kris and Laura. Got a cool embroidered art piece for our guest room which Mom and Dad got me for my birthday.
Birthday celebrations. Friday- kayaking with Mom, Dad and Dan. Beer out on the sandbar, local brewery, then ice cream and dinner with RGM. Sleepover at Mom’s. Pool day, lobsters. Kids bouncing on air mattress. Fake out with a small ice cream cake- which I have VERY strong feelings about. Kara’s kids- Emelie and Teddy. Em asked me if she could lick my cake. I thought she said Look AT my cake and I said SURE!
Quote of the Week
One does not ‘find oneself’ by pursuing one’s self, but on the contrary by pursuing something else and learning through some discipline or routine (even the routine of making beds) who one is and wants to be.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Knitting in Passing
My cousin Gayle gave me an antique darning egg that was her great grandmother’s.
It appears to be a vintage white milk glass hand blown darning egg- similar to this one listed on eBay
Mom got us matching pink socks with sheep on them for upcoming Wool Festivals!
I enjoyed the quiet time & guided meditation. I’m not sure I believe in the benefits of the salt and am especially skeptical that the website sites Dr. Oz as their source.
Check out the Maintenance Phase Podcast to hear some behind the scenes details you may not know about Dr. Oz
Morgen’s First Communion and A’s birthday dinner.
I saw a local production of Joseph & The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat with my cousins, my grandmother & my great aunt Florence as part of her 94th birthday celebration. She’s always wanted red leather pants. Her daughter Joanie bought them for her and she rocked them!
Savers trip with Mom! Always fun (and funny)
My cousin Bella’s performance as Fiona in Shrek the Musical
Our friend Liz’s surprise 30th Birthday- Star Wars Themed Party. The decorations were on point!
We have a new nephew- Zachary!
Mother’s Day at Mom’s.
My mom, Diane Lassonde, was on Episode 190 of the eBay for Business Podcast. Check it out!
Quote of the Week
Life will hit you hard in the face, wait for you to get back up just so it can kick you in the stomach. But getting the wind knocked out of you is the only way to remind your lungs how much they like the taste of air.– Sarah Kay
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 231 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. For full show notes check out: www.downcellarstudio.com/231
This week’s segments included:
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Brainstorming
From the Armchair
Some Years Later
Knitting in Passing
In my Travels
KAL News
On a Happy Note
Quote of the Week
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Wordle
Pattern: Wordle by Ham & Eggs (free crochet pattern available on Ravelry) Yarn: Knit Picks Brava Worsted in Peapod (Green), Loops & Thread Impeccable in True Gray, Rowan Purelife in Alder Buckthorn (Mustard), Red Heart Super Saver in White
Hook: D (3.25 mm)
Directions tell you exactly how to make the format they show in the pattern or you can create your own. I chose to use one of the Riley’s actually Wordle days using a screenshot she sent me.
I did the bottom row as one strip instead of five squares. When I joined the columns, I ran a slipped stitch down the existing stitches to match where I seamed up the previous rows
I didn’t weave in any ends. I tucked them inside snd tied some of them together. I did one round of white to edge the front piece. Then seamed together the front and back together with sc with right sides facing out.
I made the back piece in gray. I dont think that’s what was called for in the pattern.
He has safety eyes and two little white arms.
Riley is calling him Stove- after the winning word I based it on. She wants me to embroider STOVE on the back so we don’t forget his name
If you’re looking for a great book for a child in your life- check this out. It’s beautiful!
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Some Years Later
April 2015- I knit the sample for my Trickle Shawl pattern.Ravelry Link. LoveCrafts Link. $5 US Knitting Pattern
Knitting in Passing
Riley wore her Everyday Cardigan in Merino Number 5 by Loopy Mango. Click here for my Ravelry Project Page.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 230 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Check out show notes with photos on my website.
This week’s segments included:
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
From the Armchair
In my Travels
KAL News
Events
Ask Me Anything
On a Happy Note
Quote of the Week
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Kim’s Christmas Stocking
Pattern: Christmas Stockings to Knit and Crochet from Family Circle Magazine. Available in this web archive link. I’ve also saved it to my podcast Gmail Google Drive in case it disappears!
Yarn: Red Heart Super Saver in Cherry Red, Hunter Green and White
Wool of the Andes Unspun Roving. Colorway: Delft Heather (100 grams) 100% Peruvian Highland Wool.
Spun one braid. I have one more to go.
Malabrigo Nube. 113 grames Combed Top 100% Merino Wool in Colorway 809 Solis.
Planning to ply these together with Rhapsody Fiber Arts- 2oz 50% Angora/50% merino no colorway- lighter blues. Already plied some of this with two other singles.
Riley’s Christmas Cardigan
Pattern: Everyday Cardigan in Merino No. 5 by Loopy Mango
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
In My Travels
Tune in to hear about our trip to Newport, Rhode Island for my cousin’s wedding
We enjoyed a visit to Newport Vineyards for cocktail hour Friday night.
We got breakfast at Diego’s on Saturday morning. Tip: get a reservation and order the Diego’s Huevos
Kick Off Date- Monday 5/30- Memorial Day. Virtual Events.Sign ups for Participants coming soon
Events
The Knit Girls Stash Dash usually starts in May! Stay tuned.
Ask Me Anything
I received a couple questions asking about how Mom is doing after her lung cancer diagnosis in December 2021. Tune in for more. You can also check out the video we shared in March, if you want to hear/see more.
On a Happy Note
My friend Laura came for a visit. We celebrated our friend Kris’ birthday with shopping and dinner.
I went for my annual physical and mammogram! PSA- don’t put off those doctor’s appointments. It’s important.
I am enjoying the signs of Spring!
Went for mani pedis with Mom and Trish
My Cousin’s Wedding in Newport!
I booked weekend getaway with Riley and Aila for their 14th and 13th birthdays.
Wordle text chat with my family
Quote of the Week
Learning how to be still, to REALLY be still and let life happen- that stillness becomes radiance.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
If you’d like a good afterthought heel pattern, consider Susan B. Anderson’s Smooth Operator Heel pattern (Ravelry Link) For a video tutorial, check out this video from the EarthtonesGirl YouTube Channel
Blue Kamakaze Socks
Yarn: ThreadHeadKnits Co. Plump Sock (100% Superwash Merino 4 ply- 438 yards/100g) in the Blue Kamakaze Colorway.
Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams $5 on Ravelry.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Some Years Later
March 11. 2022 was our 10 year podcast anniversary! THANK YOU to everyone who has listened, told a friend, left a review, purchased a pattern, joined my Patreon group, participated in a KAL. THANK YOU! I’m so appreciative.
Crafty Adventures
I helped Millie (age 10) with a craft kit: Mini Garden Unicorn- Amazon Affiliate Link
Knitting in Passing
I was gifted yarn from Megg in Ireland: Hedgehog Fibres– Sock Yarn (90% Merino, 10% nylon) in the Crush colorway. Pinks from light to magenta with yellows, oranges and royal blues.
My niece Millie received yarn from the nurse at her school whose daughter had taken up knitting and then given it up.
I ordered needles for Millie and cast on a cowl she wants to knit with the skein of yarn from A Hundred Ravens at Russell’s Garden Center Farm Fiber Days at the beginning of March.
KAL News
Splash Pad Party ’22 Call for Sponsors!
Sponsor Call: Deadline 4/25/22
Want to sign up (after you read the details)? Please fill out this Google Form
Poet May Sarton on the importance of rest: “I always forget how important the empty days are, how important it may be sometimes not to expect to produce anything, even a few lines in a journal. A day when one has not pushed oneself to the limit seems a damaged, damaging day, a sinful day. Not so! The most valuable thing one can do for the psyche, occasionally, is to let it rest, wander, live in the changing light of a room.”
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
If you’d like a good afterthought heel pattern, consider Susan B. Anderson’s Smooth Operator Heel pattern (Ravelry Link) For a video tutorial, check out this video from the EarthtonesGirl YouTube Channel
Pumpkin Patch Socks
Pattern: TBD
Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock in the Pumpkin Patch colorway
Pattern: Christmas Stockings to Knit and Crochet from Family Circle Magazine. Available in this web archive link. I’ve also saved it to my podcast Gmail Google Drive in case it disappears! You can find that PDF here.
Yarn: Red Heart Super Saver in Cherry Red, Hunter Green and White
Can’t really wear it with a coat but I do wear it several times a season in fall/winter/early spring. Add some fun jewelry, leggings, heels. great for a date night. Great for chilly winter day when you just want to be wrapped up in many layers!
Curls: Versatile, Wearable Wraps to Knit at Any Gauge- book details on the Pantsville Press website.
Knit Feb-April 2015
My project notes do not say, but think I used close to/all of fingering weight skein and yet it wasn’t big enough to wrap around my neck and stay put.
In the end, I frogged it to use the yarn for something else.
Knitting in Passing
Stephanie @farmsteadknits on Instagram sent mom a very special car package including a pair of handknit socks & a shawl. Shawl pattern: Around Every Corner by Stephanie Lotven (tellybeanknits). Check out Stephanie’s Ravelry Project Page for full details. Yarn: Sea Panda Yarn- click here for their website. Looks like their Blue Lagoon Mini Set.
In My Travels
Russell's Garden Center- March 2022 Farm Fiber Days Event
Checked off another item on my 22 for 2022 list- check out new trail. I’ve also done yoga several times in March- towards my goal of doing yoga every month.
On a Happy Note
Garret had a scare with appendicitis but didn’t need emergency surgery!
Booked basics of our trip to Ireland, Scotland and Barcelona.
Millie’s Birthday Weekend
Dinner in an igloo with a tiki theme
Decorated for Easter
Quote of the Week
People pay for what they do, and still more, for what they have allowed themselves to become. And they pay for it very simply: by the lives they lead.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Click here for Wiki page on Mr. Fezziwig from A Christmas Carol
Kim’s Christmas Stocking
Pattern: Christmas Stockings to Knit and Crochet from Family Circle Magazine. Available in this web archive link. I’ve also saved it to my podcast Gmail Google Drive in case it disappears! You can find that PDF here.
Yarn: Red Heart Super Saver in Cherry Red, Hunter Green and White
Check out this Granny Square Chain. It’s a free Crochet pattern from Homemade@MyPlace
From the Armchair
The Overnight Guest by Heather Gudenkauf. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link.Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Knitting in Passing
I met my cousin Chris’ fiancee’s grandmother who will soon be 98 years old. She told me she used to knit and crochet.
I found some lovely handkerchiefs at my Mom’s. I think some of the edges were trimmed by my grandmother and my great-aunt Rachel.
In My Travels
Tune in to hear about our trip to NH to Ski at Loon Mountain.
Check out your standings (and others’) on the Players Stats Sheet (Google Sheet)
278 on Roster this Season
135 people earned 1-25 entries
66 people earned 26-50 entries
58 people got between 51-100 entries
14 of you earned more than 100 entries or more entries towards grand prizes.
Only 5 did not post any points.
Pigskin ’21 Teams & Conferences
Our Teams were Part of 2 Conferences this year- Alpaca Conference (Commissioner: Wendy) & Llama Conference (Commissioner: Jen)
Llama Conference won- 508,420 points
Alpaca Conference had a strong showing with 456,414 points
Highest scoring Team was also in the Llama conference- Team 2- Llamaste- 62,849
2nd Place goes to : Team 10- International Llamas- 50,896
In 3rd Place from the Alpaca Conference is: Team 24 Suri Longnecks- 50,721!
Congrats to all of our players and teams! Tune in to hear if you won a participation prize or one of our 10 GRAND PRIZES!
Ask Me Anything
How do you knit for Massachusetts winters (Elisa.knits)
Layers!
Worsted weight hats and shawls.
Make fingerless mitts or mittens. Purchase gloves if you prefer those and the idea of making them doesn’t sound appealing.
Which fiber did you spin with when you began to spin (kmac0107)
Corriedale. Highly recommend!
What do you want to hear “my name winning a prize? Smile- Mom updates that you are willing to share” (javajennie) & related question “How’s Mom doing? Sending good vibes her way “(bayoumamaLA)
She’s doing well.
We recorded an update video and shared on the Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel at the end of January. You can find that video by clicking here.
So much fun with Snapchat filters. Millie made everyone participate.
I got to see my friend Laura’s new apartment on the Upper West Side of Manhattan.
My cousin’s fiancee’s bridal shower.
Visiting with my former boss & totally losing track of time.
Quote of the Week
“You don’t have a right to the cards you believe you should have been dealt with. You have an obligation to play the hell out of the ones you’re holding and my dear one, you and I have been granted a mighty generous one.”-Cheryl Strayed
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Story about the yarn: Shortly after my cousin Gayle listened to E222 that I recorded with mom where we talked about her cancer diagnosis, she was out running an errand and the only parking spot she could find was directly in front of a yarn shop. She took it as a sign and asked for something local that would be good for socks.
Click here for Wiki page on Mr. Fezziwig from A Christmas Carol
Finished first sock!
Brainstorming
Check out this video from Ysolda on Instagram. It shows how you don’t need to start with a slip knot to start a long-tail cast on and how that can help you avoid that extra little bump of fabric that slip knot creates. Mind blown!
Millie’s birthday gifts.
Tip: Warm water and white vinegar worked perfectly to get slime off a commercial stuffed animal. It removed the thick, crusted on slime from her handmade but still left a bit of a pink color cast on them.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Knitting in Passing
Kris legwarmer sock. It fits. Now that I know that, I can make second.
Knitting at local brewery turned into a conversation!
The Pigskin Party is officially over. Thank you to all of you who made it such a huge success! I will announce all of the rest of the winners on Episode 227 at the end of February!
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Crafty Adventures
Taught Millie how to make pom poms to make them into little doggies. She didn’t finish but we got the basics of 2 pom poms done.
Knitting in Passing
I lost my new ski hat in NH but thankfully was able to find it.
Riley got her sweater project back and knit on that during sleepover at my parents and then on our ski trip. Millie brought her cowl and knit a bit in the car… and then per usual got car sick.
Millie wore a granny square jacket mom made for me when I was little, out to dinner the other night! It looks super cute on her.
My friend Laura sends me photos of her feet, warm and cute in her handknit socks which makes me so happy! Now my friend Megg has started doing that too. It’s a fun little game.
Check out my Reel. Use the Hashtag. Share your knits. Encourage your loved ones to play along too!
#knitgiftwearshare
I picked up a bottle of wine for big storm this weekend and received a nice compliment on my Felici Hat. Aran weight slouchy hat I knit out of Duck Duck Wool in the Summer Sidewalk Colorway. Click here for my Ravelry Project Page.
In My Travels
Tune in to hear a story of our ski trip to Loon Mountain in New Hampshire. PSA: Please wear a helmet!
Patrons, check out the Patreon feed for a video vlog from that weekend!
KAL News
Pigskin Party ’21: Official Hashtag: #DCSPigskinParty21
Coupon Codes: find details in this Ravelry Thread or on my website (coming soon)
Pro Shop Sponsor Exclusive Items: find details as they’re posted in this Ravelry Thread or on my website (coming soon)
Use the Points Tally form for official entry but celebrate with everyone in the End Zone Dance Ravelry Thread and using #DCSPigskinEndZoneDance
Check out your standings (and others’) on the Players Stats Sheet (Google Sheet)
Fumble your entry on the Points Tally form? Use this Support Form (Google Form)
Pre-Game Chatter on Ravelry can be found in this Thread.
Tune in to hear if you’re a December Participation Winner
Life in Focus
Tune in to hear an update on my Goals for 2022 and my 22 for 2022 list.
On a Happy Note
Encanto on Disney Plus. Riley made us a popcorn/candy bar!
Liz & Millie playing guitars
I got to see Millie’s last session of gymnastics for the season.
Meeting up with my friend Melissa and her daughter for lunch.
We bought a book called “Mom Tell Me Your Stories” from Savers. It’s a book where you can document answers to questions about your Mom’s life. Riley and Millie are into it. We spent an hour Sunday morning asking Mom questions.
Dan bought me a cool new contraption so I can make hot coffee when we go camping.
Dan surprising me with dinner one night and lunch another day when my week was really hectic.
Not so great- Millie & Mom getting Covid. Happy note- Mom was chosen in the lottery to get monoclonal antibody infusion!
Snow is coming!
Quote of the Week
“The secret of getting ahead is getting started. The secret of getting started is breaking your complex overwhelming tasks into small, manageable tasks, and then starting on the first one.”
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Coupon Codes: find details in this Ravelry Thread or on my website (coming soon)
Pro Shop Sponsor Exclusive Items: find details as they’re posted in this Ravelry Thread or on my website (coming soon)
Use the Points Tally form for official entry but celebrate with everyone in the End Zone Dance Ravelry Thread and using#DCSPigskinEndZoneDance
Check out your standings (and others’) on the Players Stats Sheet (Google Sheet)
Fumble your entry on the Points Tally form? Use this Support Form (Google Form)
Pre-Game Chatter on Ravelry can be found in this Thread.
Updates for this episode:
December Interception Winner: Congrats to sarahkatsq for Post #10. Thanks to Natalie for hosting the Cozy Up Interception
No Interception in January
Monthly Scavenger Hunt (January clues have been posted): Figure out these fun clues and earn points each month. Check out this Ravelry Thread or this Google Doc.
KAL ends on February 14, 2022
Life in Focus
Word of the Year: Pause
Pause: take a time out. Breathe. Relax. Be present.
Pause: put obligations that you may no otherwise, on hold and reprioritize.
Pause: savor the moment. Cherish it. Freeze time if only for a second.
Pause: I want the cancer to pause. To stop, if only for awhile, to give us some more time. I know it won’t be forever but I am putting energy into this pause.
Pause: a period or time free from engagement
Pause: take a breather
Pause: take five
Pause- and connect. connect my feelings. connect with others.
Primary Goals:
Move your body 4 days a week. Any movement for 15 minutes or more counts.
Say Yes to time spent with Mom. Call often. Visit once a week, more if possible. Say yes to things that involve her unless it’s interferes with my own mental health or need for rest.
Journal about each day of this year. I can write about things a day or two later if need be, but I do want to keep a record. I do want to pause and reflect on things are they happen this year.
22 for 2022List
Check out this episode of Happier with Gretchen Rubin to hear more about this project.
Go Skiing (from 2021)
Knit a garment out of handspun (from 2021)
Spend at least two hours learning something new (on my own, in a class, YouTube videos etc)
Read 22 novels
Go to an art museum
Buy something a little extravagant
Meet with financial planner about new investments.
Do at least 1 yoga video per month
Kayak at one new place
Create the collage wall in my studio
Visit Eme at school
Try out the new trail on Grove Street
2nd Annual Nora Ephron Movies Day
Purge & declutter the secretary
Plan and go on at least 1 date with Dan that involves going at least 1 place we don’t “normally” go
Take a vacation/staycation before August
Buy a fabulous new dress to wear to weddings
Have my car’s backup camera checked out & ideally fixed
Hire a professional photographer for family photos
Spend a weekend with Laura (in NY or MA)
Go Apple Picking
Hang a calendar in the diningroom
On a Happy Note
Quiet New Year’s Eve at home, with Covid all around us. Homemade popcorn, cold craft beer, and Lupin on Netflix.
I got a text from my cousin Joanie. Her mom, my Aunt Florence has been struggling to make pom poms for the hats she’s been knitting. I showed her early in December how to use the Clover pom pom maker I bought her, but she was still a bit stuck. Joanie’s daughters helped her make the pom poms! They came out great! Love a good family project.
January 2: Nora Ephron Day. Started with You’ve Got Mail, found a Nora Ephron documentary Everything is Copy on HBO Max, then proceeded to watch Sleepless in Seattle and When Harry Met Sally.
Getting silly videos of my niece Hattie in Ireland
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.