tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34247292011-12-23T08:38:38.238-05:00Someone Keeps Moving My ChairA blogtastic view of my worldEllenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.comBlogger6881100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-48704626559305252782011-12-23T08:37:00.000-05:002011-12-23T08:38:38.246-05:00Merry Knitmas!I posted this wonderful story last year and just had to share it again. It captures the spirit of the holiday in such a beautiful way. Enjoy!Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-4105625203519648062011-12-18T20:03:00.000-05:002011-12-18T20:04:29.393-05:00Time for Ugly Christmas and Chanukah Sweaters!Almost exactly a year ago, I posted this tribute to ugly Christmas and Chanukah sweaters.Here are some new discoveries. And apologies to anyone who likes any of these!Okay this is a vest, but it qualifies!Do you have any of your own? Have you actually knit or crochet any? Please share!Have a happy weekend! One more before the big day!Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-20681827758498057792011-11-21T11:09:00.003-05:002011-11-21T11:20:52.336-05:00Words fail.....I have been a fan of Alicia Paulson's blog for years. We never met, but had email exchanges over the years.She had shared rough times and I shared mine with hers and always appreciated our mutual friendship and support.Now Alicia and her husband Andy, need support themselves.They had been planning to adopt a baby girl and when her blog was silent recently, I was hoping it was Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-30945605747315103842011-11-12T23:35:00.001-05:002011-11-12T23:38:51.198-05:00Oh my poor neglected blogI cannot believe I haven't been here in so long. I have been devoting my blog time over at the Times-Union, so please check-in over there to see the latest and greatest in the fiber arts world.All you have to do is click right here.Thanks!Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-67733053101953673842011-05-06T09:30:00.003-04:002011-08-14T11:33:02.214-04:00Just One Stitch
I'm at weird place in my knitting right now. After working really hard on a complicated sweater, I have found myself craving super simple projects. I spend a bit of time on commuter trains, so something portable with little or not pattern also perfectly fits my current knitting state of mind.
Now this isn't a novel idea. Back in 2002, designer Sally Melville wrote The Knit Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-62497565293692795482011-05-01T10:00:00.003-04:002011-05-01T10:04:51.841-04:00Where have I been?Wow, has it really been that many months since I've posted here? Guess so!I'm still a fiber arts blogger and that's why I haven't been around. Been missing my old friend here, though and want to fill this space once again.In the meantime, if you're a knitter, crocheter, spinner or have any interest in the fiber arts, I'd love your help for a new feature I'm working on called AskEllenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-26862460579847741832010-11-15T11:21:00.006-05:002010-11-15T11:27:05.880-05:00Thanks For The Calories!Bye bye scraper. Thinking about all of the cookies, brownies, breads and other fabulous baked goods we've made together over the years.We were a great team and I'll miss you!Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-73303387987177771652010-10-29T11:47:00.003-04:002010-11-05T22:22:29.023-04:00Come On OverI've been busy blogging elsewhere, so check me out here.Stop by. Say hi. Leave a comment.See ya there!Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-83114622086065115422010-10-21T08:10:00.005-04:002010-10-21T08:31:28.460-04:00Charity Begins At......Have you heard of Regretsy? April Winchell started Regretsy which celebrates the scariest items on Etsy and believe me, there is lots to choose from. I've been a fan of April's for years. I discovered her about nine years ago when I was living in L.A. and recovering from neck surgery. She had a radio show that was so hilarious, but unfortunately didn't last too long.A few Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-4527645462864229142010-10-02T10:04:00.001-04:002010-10-02T10:07:22.517-04:00My Fair FaireWorld Maker Faire NYC was a week ago!! I can't believe it. I just got around to blogging about it and you can read all about it here.Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-60435452820935485902010-09-22T13:17:00.000-04:002010-09-22T13:18:17.610-04:00Wordless Wednesday-Cinema Style!Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-70066157122627827792010-09-10T14:06:00.002-04:002010-09-10T14:10:09.402-04:00Happy Friday, Fiber Friends! After I wrote about Quince and Co.recently, I couldn't resist and ordered some of their Lark and Chickadee yarns. I also bought the Gillian Beret pattern and cast on as soon as the yarn arrived. Lark was a dream to work with and I finished the hat in just a few days. Here's a shot of it blocking on a dinner plate. I think I'll call this my Raspberry Beret, because Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-39530782757781114482010-09-03T10:05:00.005-04:002010-09-03T10:12:00.243-04:00Let's Hear It For The BoysFrom T-U fiber arts blogger Aaron of Men Who Knit, to Drew Emborsky, The Crochet Dude, to knitting designer/cookbook author Bruce Weinstein and Jared Flood of Brooklyn Tweed, it's apparent that men's presence in the contemporary knitting scene is abundant.As you may know, the Waldorf school method of education incorporates knitting into their curriculum and many young Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-18705017644403570982010-08-29T11:44:00.008-04:002010-08-29T11:55:42.229-04:00Knitting With The StarsI'm always fascinated to hear which celebrities or well-known people knit or crochet. It's just fun to know people who we admire or enjoy share our hobby. The funny thing is, it's been impossibly difficult to find any photos of these folks actually knitting or crocheting.I decided to give it another try and my powers of Internet sleuthing uncovered these gems.Oooh, Mommie Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-36561776644845828852010-06-04T14:16:00.002-04:002010-06-04T14:19:00.984-04:00School's out for summer, almost....Check out this great story about a knitting class that's actually on the curriculum in a high school in Los Angeles.Click here.Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-29010218733680540082010-05-07T17:30:00.003-04:002010-05-08T11:54:48.648-04:00A blog to visitHi all,While I've been busy over at the Times Union Fiber Arts blog , I do still read others.One I've found recently that's so interesting is Wisdom Begins In Wonder. Andrea's an alpaca breeder and fiber artist and has the most interesting stories connected with her daily life.So go check out her out!Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-20333247699939461662010-04-16T10:34:00.001-04:002010-04-16T10:37:45.586-04:00Blog?Yes, it's been a while since I've been here.That's because I've been busy over here .Check it out and let me know what you think.Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-79872796043590937082010-03-13T11:30:00.003-05:002010-03-13T11:39:32.636-05:00Graph content below....I've always been interested in graph knitting, since my mom made many sweaters in that style for me, my brother and years later, for my daughter, too.Mary Maxim and Knit-O-Graf were the biggest companies publishing those designs back in the day. Today, MM sells kits for their original patterns.If you'd like to know a little bit more about this, check out this fiber arts Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-20640270537448250492010-03-12T09:26:00.001-05:002010-03-12T09:28:40.518-05:00Don't you love this?Here's the making of:Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-34579224332077427602010-02-16T08:40:00.003-05:002010-02-16T08:55:46.203-05:00One more time!Bored with my bread photos?I am having too much fun doing this.This latest one is the best one yet.Jim Lahey's book, My Bread has the master recipe and variations.Not much else I feel like posting about. Still knitting. Wishing Spring would arrive.Later.Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-76923543842714406032010-02-08T01:02:00.003-05:002010-02-08T01:12:03.645-05:00Another cold weekend. Another warm bread.Both of the breads were made using Jim Lahey's no-knead method that was the hit of the web a few years back. He recently wrote a great cookbook with that original recipe and lots more. Check it out here.Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-34522447056500834912010-02-05T14:41:00.003-05:002010-02-05T14:47:30.524-05:00What else you can do when it's cold outside.Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-56879060130729067712009-12-20T12:08:00.004-05:002009-12-20T12:25:59.405-05:00What else do you do when it's cold outside?This is the Darkside Cowl in progress:More progress on the ruff in the previous post:Jen's Mushroom Hat from Purl Soho :Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-29682327420993156792009-11-03T13:09:00.003-05:002009-11-03T13:21:44.765-05:00Mostly unpacked. Knitting again.This is Mel Clark's One Skein Cashmere Ruff . I'm really loving it.Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-64898098854274381462009-09-29T00:40:00.003-04:002009-09-29T00:48:39.079-04:00Leaving SaratogaYes, we are.A job opportunity came up, so we're now surrounded by all of our possessions in boxes, waiting to find out what time the moving truck will arrive.Thanks to all of you, who read my ramblings. I won't have Internet for a few days, but I'll be back soon.Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-69207171295774952272009-09-10T08:41:00.005-04:002009-09-10T14:52:23.699-04:00Long time....I can't believe I haven't blogged in so long.The summer was a blur of heat, humidity, horrific thunderstorms and hoofbeats, interspersed with some beautiful days that I wish came around more often.This was typical of the sky for much of the summer:We had an incredibly frightening day last month, where we got stuck on the Northway in what felt like an episode of Storm Chasers. The skyEllenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-12508705806997980892009-07-02T07:51:00.002-04:002009-07-02T07:53:58.414-04:00Despite the weather, I'm trying to:Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-12546597946108324382009-06-12T10:32:00.005-04:002009-06-12T10:53:58.754-04:00I cleaned up!For my birthday last month, my generous brother gave me a gift certificate to amazon.It's funny. I seem to remember in years past, way before amazon and gift cards, that people used to say giving a gift certificate was "lazy". I don't get it. This way the recipient can get what they want.So, with the vast array of stuff you can get on amazon, this was a fun task. I looked at books Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-313222503278653692009-06-10T00:37:00.004-04:002009-06-10T00:48:38.832-04:00Give it away nowI'm a sucker for knitting books. Whenever we have our umpteenth conversation about moving, I pretty much know what I can part with and what I can't. My knitting books stay!I try to abide by the rule of giving away one item for each new one purchased. It helps cut down on too much accumulation.Our local library has a used book shop inside and every so often I'll just pop in and Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-38035495410683747202009-06-06T14:17:00.006-04:002009-06-07T11:28:27.004-04:00The Cranky WeaverIt's a lovely day here in the 'Dacks, so we decided to take a little drive to an antique flea market in a nearby town.Some pretty woven items caught my eye, so I walked over to take a look. The weaver was there, working on her loom. Very cool. I liked the colors and textures of the items, so I decided to take a photo. Most of the time I ask for permission, but she was in a deep Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-12037430335191495442009-05-29T08:35:00.005-04:002009-07-03T07:48:14.610-04:00"Action" shotsThere are still a couple of weeks to check out the Knitta Please 69 Meters project on Montague Street in Brooklyn Heights.Here are mine:There's a nice write-up in the New York Times here.It's been so gray lately, it was the perfect time to put these up. Still wondering if I could do something like that up here, especially during the countless months of colorless winter.Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-58523208577885547062009-05-21T13:57:00.005-04:002009-05-21T14:06:19.021-04:00Button. Button. Who's got the button?I do! Lots of 'em.I recently went to this great antique flea market in Washington County in the town of Greenwich. It's pronounced Green-witch, unlike the Connecticut town of the same spelling.I went with the specific desire of finding some cool buttons, interesting spoons and a berry bowl. Two out three ain't bad.Here's my button find:Some nice silver servingEllenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-56894881239270633272009-05-14T23:48:00.002-04:002009-05-14T23:52:25.753-04:00It's up!The 69 Meters project on Montague Street in Brooklyn Heights has been installed.There's a nice write-up, with photos, from Gothamist here.What I didn't expect is the number of absolutely hateful and obnoxious comments that follow this little article. The Montague Street BID will have photos of all of the meters later in the week, so I'll post mine in action soon.Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-46941888845170371752009-05-13T19:34:00.002-04:002009-05-13T19:47:49.692-04:00Do the MathHousing prices have been going down or staying flat these days, right?Well apparently the folks here in 'Toga didn't get the memo.This was taken Christmas Day 2008:This was taken today, May 13, 2009:Busted!Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-71384232452601289652009-05-01T11:06:00.003-04:002009-05-01T11:18:50.705-04:00See ya!I promised I wouldn't admit to myself that Winter was over until May 1st. So, here we are.It's gloomy, rainy and humid here today (but it's NOT SNOW or ICE), a perfect day to put away all of my Winter stuff.Just a little sampling of things I've made that will be boxed up for a while.May also ushers in the outdoor Farmer's Market. From now until October, twice weekly, I can walk over and Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-88314965426520429292009-04-30T09:50:00.002-04:002009-04-30T11:34:01.102-04:00Brooklyn BoundThose are my pieces for the Knitta Please "69 Meter" projects. They had specific color requirements and that's what I came up with.I can't wait to see the strip of Montague Street in Brooklyn Heights with all of the gayly festooned meters. The display will be sometime mid-May. You can check out the Montague Street BID site here for more info.Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-57457817065505867332009-04-22T12:46:00.003-04:002009-04-22T13:16:44.365-04:00What's it all about?As all of my friends and relatives (and maybe blog readers too) know, I miss living in L.A. so much. The town I live in is very lovely, but it still doesn't feel like home.What's really strange is that almost a day doesn't go by without something reminding me of home. One week, I wrote down every time that happened and it was amazing how quick the calendar boxes filled up. A Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-30013546128376949602009-04-16T09:25:00.003-04:002009-04-16T09:47:49.759-04:00Searching for SpringThe color palette in my town is gray, grayer, brown, beige, white, bland.....I took a walk with my camera yesterday trying to find something, anything, to indicate winter's over.Believe it or not, there's still snow around:Most of the trees are still closed up tight:The tree I photographed in February (exactly two months ago) seems like it's finally budding:And then, FINALLY, Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-17067721687670412172009-04-07T09:02:00.003-04:002009-04-07T09:27:09.978-04:00Charity beginsMy friend Allison, proprietress of the great online shop Supercrafty recently wrote about how a simple request turned into a charity project. Here's the scoop.I am working on several big projects right now, but sometimes it's nice to do something quick and fun, especially when it's for charity.Here's the almost-finished hat, I'll be sending back to Allison soon.I practically Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-50131440314374581952009-04-07T01:02:00.001-04:002009-04-07T01:05:07.866-04:00Here we go againNot much to say. IT"S APRIL!!!! When does this nonsense end?The next time I hear someone say they miss the seasons, I'll give them an earful.Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-71023425896428043662009-03-27T14:45:00.004-04:002009-03-27T16:16:45.205-04:00Are we there yet?Waiting oh so patiently for spring.It's warmer today for the first time in forever. I haven't spotted any flowers yet, so I knit some:The dish cloth pattern is part of Kris Knits Spring Cloth collection.I'm still monitoring that tree, a few posts below and can't wait for some real buds to emerge.Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-41142458943042434282009-03-25T10:12:00.003-04:002009-03-25T10:29:45.757-04:00Oh hi!I'm still here. Just got a bit out of the blogging loop.Do you ever take these silly quizzes on Facebook or elsewhere in your web travels?This one sounded interesting, so I tried it. It's called Typealyzer. It's supposed to analyze the personality of your blog according to the Myers-Briggs personas.Here's my personality according to Typealyzer:ESTP - The DoersThe active and playful type. Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-78364898330348003352009-02-16T21:47:00.004-05:002009-02-16T21:54:11.641-05:00This bud's for youI found the first little inkling that Spring might actually be here soon.Click on photo for a closer view.See those sweet little buds?It'll probably be a while yet, before they bloom, but soon. Hopefully, soon.We've been enjoying a dry spell, and everyone who lives here knows that can't last.More snow is predicted for much of this week.Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-6676627394809821872009-02-09T11:18:00.002-05:002009-02-09T11:20:03.801-05:00PoemI was just sent this amazing poem, that I know all sock knitters will love.It's called "Ode To My Socks" by Pablo Neruda.Click and enjoy!Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-26202000182161656052009-02-07T15:50:00.003-05:002009-02-07T15:55:10.833-05:00What a difference a day makesRemember just yesterday I blogged about that bit of sidewalk that had been unshoveled?Even though I just took the picture it had been that way for weeks.When I went out today look what I found:I know it's probably not the case, but do you think they could have seen my blog?In any case, thanks!Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-16520017698059462792009-02-06T09:48:00.003-05:002009-02-06T09:51:29.463-05:00Very coolThe movie "Coraline" is opening today and if you don't know, everything in it is made by hand. It looks like an amazing film.Here's a peek at how the sweaters were made. It's quite incredible:Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-4014888396053463922009-02-06T09:29:00.003-05:002009-02-06T09:41:43.599-05:00Not coolTrying to take a walk around here is a challenge, but thankfully as of yesterday many of the sidewalks were clear. Until I came across this:It's much easier to clear when the snow has just fallen. Now it's sub-freezing so it's just a big frozen gully. It bet it won't melt until April.Oh and I won't name names, but there is a certain bakery that never salts or shovels the sidewalk in frontEllenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-86750765303893667122009-01-30T23:34:00.003-05:002009-01-30T23:39:44.017-05:00Something newHello all of you upstate New York knitters, crocheters and spinners.Did you know about the 1st Annual Southern Adirondack Fiber Festival?Here's all the info I could find for now:Official event siteI've been to other events at the Washington County Fairgrounds and it's so cool this event is taking place there, too.Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-29803883314488154502009-01-28T10:05:00.003-05:002009-01-28T10:10:11.173-05:00Blurg! Or is it blurgh? Or blerg? Anyway.....The streets were pretty clear. The sidewalks, at least in or near downtown, were pretty good. And then there's today:Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-73813863269022739642009-01-16T16:47:00.001-05:002009-01-16T16:48:46.429-05:00I can't say anything as funny as this commercial already is."You're gonna love my nuts."Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-53775944053960562102009-01-10T06:08:00.003-05:002009-01-10T06:18:51.429-05:00A nice pair of socksThese are the "Man Socks" from Hannah Fettig's "Closely Knit".I used Lion Brand Wool-Ease that I had in my stash, that I think I bought for a hat project. I've made so many hats here, this was a nice change. Now I am keeping my boy warm from head to toe.After I added this photo to my Ravelry page, Hannah asked if she could feature it on her page for this pattern. Pretty swellEllenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-9511177449367809092008-12-29T10:44:00.004-05:002008-12-29T10:48:55.468-05:00December SkyOn our way home from visiting friends yesterday, I took this shot:It was gray all day and this beautiful sky lasted literally five minutes. So glad I had my camera with me to capture it.Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-48728636064702192582008-12-22T10:04:00.000-05:002008-12-22T10:05:01.516-05:00Happy Chanukah!I wish......Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-23901471092793096012008-12-21T15:40:00.001-05:002008-12-21T15:40:40.525-05:00It has been snowing here for three days straight.That's all I have to say.Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-28484177066818493292008-12-01T22:36:00.005-05:002008-12-01T22:50:11.305-05:00Just in timeIt's been cold and balmy and cold and balmy again.For the cold days, my ears need warming. I bought this kit from Staceyjoy Elkin of RedLipstick.It was my first attempt at mitered knitting and I loved it. The instructions were clear and easy and this worked up really quickly. When the earwarmer is done, it's all lumpy. You have to wash it with gentle soap in warm water, rinse and Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-77456852446250031572008-11-18T14:28:00.007-05:002008-11-19T10:22:31.967-05:00More,more, more....Still working my way through the stash. The neckwarmers are from Patons Classic Merino, leftover from a felted bowl project from a few years ago. The pattern is called Luxe Neckwarmer from my pal Mel Clark's book, "Knit 2 Together".The hat, for the inevitable, upcoming frigid weather (SIGH!!), is Center Square from Knitty 2006.Think I'll take a break for a few days and decideEllenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-39429650720361904192008-11-17T15:45:00.002-05:002008-11-17T15:48:41.048-05:00Turkish DelightI like to look at my blog referral list to see how people found my little corner of the Internet.Here's something amazing. Apparently a Turkish blog liked my ballband coasters and wrote about it here.Umm...I'm assuming they liked it, right? They wouldn't have put them in a frame with a flower.I couldn't find a good translator, so I don't know what it says. If anyone happens to knowEllenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-63848758781529194402008-11-04T09:14:00.005-05:002008-11-04T09:34:27.751-05:00As promised.....First of all, I voted!Stash-com 2008 continues with this very quick Cascade Magnum scarf:Easy pattern. Cast on 78 stitches on size 35's. Garter stitch for 7 rows. Bind off loosely and fringe. Found the pattern via Elliphantom.Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-59900143048893536542008-11-01T09:58:00.004-04:002008-11-01T17:37:42.966-04:00It's about timeAs much as I try to stop buying yarn, I give in from time to time.We were away last week and met some friends for breakfast. My friend showed me these amazing fingerless gloves she made from Koigu KPPM. They were so amazing I caved and went to a yarn shop near our hotel and bought some.Don't you sometimes buy yarn for projects, then never get to it, and then when it resurfaces you Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-23317185259507670422008-10-17T09:38:00.002-04:002008-10-17T09:45:23.147-04:00So close and yet....It's amazing that this is the second time since we've been living here in the 'Dacks, that I won't be able to go to Rhinebeck. I'll just have to live vicariously through all of the blog and Ravelry posts.Linda Woods, of Saratoga Llamas (and the post below) will be there, so please check her out. I saw some of the great stuff she's bringing, including these amazing knitting/Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-37281135438673211042008-10-13T12:10:00.008-04:002008-10-13T16:31:03.833-04:00A little "pizzazz"This weekend was the Saratoga County Fiber Tour. Farms open their doors to the public to showcase their llamas, sheep and alpaca. There were demos of spinning and weaving, kids could walk llamas around the farms and of course there was lots of yarn, roving and handmade items.The weekend was perfect for this. Balmy, breezy and lots of beautiful foliage on the way.Sorry this one'sEllenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-45818326564727474222008-10-10T12:16:00.005-04:002008-10-10T12:50:17.784-04:00Pop goes the....A new online knitting magazine has arrived.It's Popknits.The patterns for their debut issue are great.I am particularly enamored with Buttercup.Of course, there's also a Ravelry group, too. Almost 500 strong!Check it out: here.Here's wishing them the best!Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-23653493626047969132008-10-06T08:54:00.005-04:002008-10-06T09:03:37.435-04:00Vote!I'm not talking about the BIG vote, next month.Just spreading the word for Susan Gibbs of Martha's Vineyard Fiber Farm, of which I am a shareholder of their yarn CSA.Susan's trying to win a tech makeover for the farm, to help her manage her business more efficiently AND be able to share photos and videos with current and future shareholders.Go here, to cast your vote, by clicking on the "Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-30664284654308230972008-09-29T00:45:00.002-04:002008-09-29T00:48:37.249-04:00Autumn LoveMy fave season. Apparently, I'm not the only one who feels that way:Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-2862312595448417152008-09-28T21:21:00.004-04:002008-09-28T21:42:24.771-04:00September ShowersWell, it's raining here in the 'Dacks. Has been all weekend pretty much.It did clear up long enough to walk over to the restaurant where my friend Kathy was throwing a small baby shower for her daughter.Now that I've given the gift, I can show it to you all:It's the Whimsy Blankie by Mags Kandis, made with Mission Falls 1824 Cotton. It's the second one I've made as a baby gift Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-41659923409104206642008-09-15T15:45:00.002-04:002008-09-15T15:50:30.749-04:00Disney? Seriously?Courtesy of the fabulous folks over at Boing Boing, here's a 1946 Disney version of "that time of the month":Isn't that something?Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-47202891834196194692008-09-11T13:45:00.002-04:002008-09-11T13:48:59.209-04:00What bliss!Have you seen it?There's a new magazine in town. It's Debbie Bliss Knitting Magazine.It's got 36 wonderful designs and at $7.99 it's a great deal!They don't seem to have a separate website yet, but I'm sure they will soon.It also seems like it's a special publication that only comes out twice a year, so no subscription offers at this time.Okay, going offline to devour the issue.Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-50529097425777809252008-08-28T08:54:00.004-04:002008-08-29T09:52:20.810-04:00I Stands for IngeniousAs most of us knitters know the I in i-cord is none too flattering.Look at this brilliant use of i-cord, as fashioned by Mel Clark, knitting designer and former owner of Wildfiber in Santa Monica.Using scraps of Koigu she fashioned this lovely creation.Read more about it here.Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-76455610114462601302008-08-27T13:06:00.005-04:002008-08-27T13:23:19.207-04:00Notice anything different?Without explaining the boring details, something happened with my blog, so I had to change the template. It was pretty scary, considering I've had this blog for six years and didn't want to lose all of my precious posts.Thankfully, the posts are intact, but with a template change, all of the extra stuff I added got lost. That's one of the drawbacks of the change, but I Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-48841051039611346022008-08-19T15:21:00.002-04:002008-08-24T09:08:12.685-04:00And now for something....Completely cool!Lookie here.Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-14545147575301199602008-08-15T00:30:00.002-04:002008-08-15T00:39:30.302-04:00Another one!Just when I was just spreading the word about Twist Collective, I found another new online knitting magazine.Here's Knotions.It's brand-new, so give it a chance to grow.Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-50982480296758033892008-08-07T10:15:00.002-04:002008-08-07T10:23:51.584-04:00C'mon baby, let's do the.....Have you seen the newest online knitting magazine?It's called Twist Collective.There are great articles by Cat Bordhi, Clara Parkes, Kay Gardiner and Anne Shayne.The patterns, which are for a fee, include designers Kate Gilbert, Cookie A., Marnie MacLean, Pam Allen and many more.Glad to have another inspirational resource.Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-78154109617058016822008-08-05T11:44:00.003-04:002008-08-05T13:49:46.576-04:00Saratoga SightingBack in my old nabe, I'd see a celebrity pretty much every day. Run out for milk, see Tom Hanks.Get some chicken soup at the deli, and there's Billy Crystal. Or Steven Spielberg or pre-Gov. Arnold or Martin Short or Mary McDonnell and on and on.Needless to say not much of that goes on it 'Toga. Until I happened to be walking through the park and came upon this:The woman with Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-8258125092196954362008-07-29T22:24:00.002-04:002008-07-29T22:29:30.972-04:00Oh Joy!Great news!The fabulous knitting designer Staceyjoy Elkin of RedLipstick has just opened an etsy shop. It's a soft launch right now, but I know I'll be checking back and you should too, because in a few weeks Staceyjoy will have some of her wonderful knitwear for sale too.So check it out, right here.Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-9112083746071314252008-07-26T16:20:00.005-04:002008-12-09T00:27:37.847-05:00Instant Gratification....almostI needed a small project to do, because my long-term projects needed a time-out.I decided to make a bunch of coasters, a mini version of the Mason-Dixon Knitting ballband dishcloth. I cast on 27 stitches, made 7 rows of "bricks", using size 7 needles. They're made with Peaches and Creme cotton, purchased from the lovely Allison over at Supercrafty.Here it is in Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-86658993301634895612008-07-22T09:23:00.003-04:002008-07-22T09:43:53.970-04:00Smoothie LifestyleIt's been so unbearably hot and humid here. I love to cook, but can't even get near the stove.I've been having lots of smoothies these days. I use the whey powder that bodybuilders use, water, flaxseed meal and bunch of frozen berries. Sometimes I'll throw in a banana, too. It's cold, thick, delicious and satisfying.Oh and speaking of smooth....Recently, I was lucky to receive Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-13592162927574571662008-07-20T18:41:00.003-04:002008-12-09T00:27:38.601-05:00Guess where I was today?Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-89108489050553820072008-07-16T11:26:00.002-04:002008-12-09T00:27:38.746-05:00My finger is on the button.Aren't these a hoot? I found them in a local antique shop. There was board filled with these wacky buttons and I think I picked out the best ones.Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-14632121261520875382008-07-11T19:24:00.002-04:002008-07-11T19:27:28.276-04:00Shhh.....I just finished another knitting project, but since the recipient may read this blog, I can't post it.It's absolutely beautiful and I really enjoyed making it.If you want to see it let me know, and I'll tell you where to look on Ravelry or I'll send you a snap of it.Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-24097602603937336192008-07-08T08:45:00.000-04:002008-12-09T00:27:38.966-05:00From the Farmer's MarketThanks, ladies!Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-14190064219525366882008-07-06T17:41:00.006-04:002008-12-09T00:27:39.255-05:00Borscht!There's nothing better than a cool bowl of crimson red beets in a luscious pink liquid pool. Topped off with a pillow of sour cream and some fresh dill, it sure took my mind off the triple H temps outside.It's the first time I ever made it. It's an Ina Garten/Barefoot Contessa recipe.Click here for: Summer Borscht. So much better than the bottled stuff.Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-11288704037493908342008-06-18T20:33:00.000-04:002008-12-09T00:27:39.420-05:00I want these!Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-32240262613096705882008-06-12T10:17:00.003-04:002008-06-12T10:25:55.214-04:00No complaint ThursdayThe heat wave's over for now.So glad that Stephanie won Top Chef.I'm caffeinated.Hopeful a job I applied for will come through.Thank you and have a great day!Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-29152045181082231172008-06-10T17:49:00.004-04:002008-06-11T06:45:24.547-04:00Where am I?It's 94 degrees, it's been triple H for days, we have no a/c, we just had a blackout, there are school closings, severe weather warnings and we're under a tornado watch.Grumble, kvetch, grrrr........Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-1505479149966160062008-06-01T09:57:00.004-04:002008-12-09T00:27:39.518-05:00Give it away, give it away now....Seems like I'm mostly knitting presents these days.Here's a housewarming gift, fresh off the needles, for a friend who just bought her first house. The aformentioned felted bowl with some washcloths:Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-44735244060172765012008-05-28T15:56:00.003-04:002008-12-09T00:27:39.677-05:00Yeah, I felted.Jealous?Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-73066883952592051692008-05-15T15:25:00.003-04:002008-05-15T15:38:06.597-04:00Shopflick!A brand-new shopping site called Shopflick has just launched. It's got a great collection of items from independent craftspeople, artists, ceramicists and other talented artisans.Below is one of my fave items, from one of my fave peeps, Poketo!Check it out: Shopflick: Buy this product | Get your own Store! If you're making/selling your own cool indie crafts stuff and want to Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-90936640843601420292008-05-13T07:51:00.002-04:002008-05-13T07:57:30.128-04:00Movin' and groovin'TMBG rocks as always! Moving's on my mind, too.Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-81613951459815390632008-04-29T14:45:00.004-04:002008-12-09T00:27:39.785-05:00The best things in life are......From the classic Seinfeld episode, "The Strike":JERRY: You're still trying to get that free sub?ELAINE: Hey! I have spent a lot of time, and I have eaten a lot of crap to get to where I am today.From my former local TV commercial:And today, just on an innocent walk to pick up some eggs, my eyes happened upon this:In a matter of seconds, I was standing with a cone Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-71599028509983544412008-04-17T11:44:00.003-04:002008-04-17T11:54:12.789-04:00FrozenFor once, this subject title does not reflect our schizo weather.Check this out:Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-68249006596455107002008-04-01T08:13:00.005-04:002008-12-09T00:27:40.004-05:00What are you working on?Ooh! Me! Me! I'll go first.Slubby and Mohair scarf using Be Sweet Yarns. Looks similar to this:Another Mission Falls Cotton Blankie. Not posting a photo yet, since the parents-to-be might check my blog.I am still struggling with the Rowan Brooklyn Sweater. I think because I've stopped and started it so much over the years, I lost my momentum. I think I'm getting ready for Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-33981683080045078342008-03-28T11:28:00.003-04:002008-03-28T11:45:05.538-04:00How's the weather?Well it's been almost 10 days without a weather-related post from me.It's been cold here, but not too bad. We've even had a day or two of sun and some significant melting. Just yesterday I marveled at how the park was almost snow-free. Spring was surely coming, right?Not so fast!Woke up to total whiteness this morning. Several inches of snow have already fallen and the flakes Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-26229439164216636462008-03-21T10:30:00.002-04:002008-12-09T00:27:40.173-05:00Happy EasterLookie! Knitted Peeps!Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-53820050072618898712008-03-20T22:30:00.002-04:002008-03-20T22:57:53.491-04:00Up nextI've recently discovered Julie Weisenberger of Coco Knits while browsing around Ravelry.I fell hard for Gisela. I love the simplicity of it. I also got a good chuckle from the description, especially the part about how it covers up those pesky upper arms.The pattern calls for Habu yarn and I'm so thrilled because I am planning a day trip into Manhattan next week and I can get it directlyEllenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-76173732720332431692008-03-19T00:22:00.002-04:002008-03-19T00:28:49.353-04:00Out like a brontosaurus?I saw two robin red breasts yesterday and was so certain that meant Spring was coming.This evening I looked out of the window and saw huge snowflakes falling at a rapid pace.This month started out pretty messy and I have a feeling it'll end that way too.Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-52053107144119632532008-03-12T10:30:00.003-04:002008-03-13T10:23:24.656-04:00Has it been a week?Can't believe Project Runway ended a week ago. Times goes fast, doesn't it?I just found this really good interview with the wonderful Tim Gunn.Check it out here.Great insights and an amazing story about Victorya Hong.As much as shows edit to exaggerate for maximum entertainment value, Victorya was not a victim of that, as the interview reveals.Glad Tim will be back for Season 5.Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-89133352044674044692008-03-04T10:36:00.003-05:002008-12-09T00:27:40.366-05:00OMG!No postings about weather today.Just a shot of the most amazingly delicious eggplant parmigiana pizza from Mama Mia's.Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-6735808472634799242008-03-03T08:16:00.002-05:002008-12-09T00:27:40.494-05:00QuickieIn a stash-busting mode, although I do confess I weakened when purl soho had a big sale recently. I'm only human people! 40% off Koigu! Can ya blame me?I had some Patons Classic Merino left over from a felted bowl project, so decided to make the Luxe Neck Warmer from Knit 2 Together. I didn't love the yarn color and think it looks better when felted, but it matches a coat I have. I Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-24085512787620615022008-02-29T08:11:00.001-05:002008-12-09T00:27:40.652-05:00Our knitting guild meeting was cancelled for tomorrow since they expect about 9 inches of snow between tonight and tomorrow. This is in addition to the foot we got a few days ago.yikesEllenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3424729.post-55453989300074839282008-02-27T08:36:00.006-05:002008-02-27T13:24:15.665-05:00Just when you thought it was safe.....Monday was the first day in a long time, I went out without my Yaktrax. There were still mounds of snow everywhere, but it didn't effect getting around at all. You can just get out and go.There seems to be a pattern of whenever the streets and sidewalks are completely clear and walkable, a huge storm comes and makes everything difficult again.So right on cue,Ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16225213664021009264noreply@blogger.com0