Saturday, July 12, 2008

Lot's of Life, a Little Knitting

My blog sub title says "Knitting . . . with a little life thrown in." Well, that is true with the exception that life has been over taking all knitting of late. Remember the secret project I have been terribly preoccupied with? Well, in a few more weeks that will be wrapped up. RM has even contributed a bit to give the finished product a little flair. We are breathless with anticipation. It has not been an easy road. Along the way we have had nausea, disappointments, aches, pains and many bumps in the road. I know the end result will be fantastic. Hopefully we get great reviews on it.

I had one of these a week or so ago. Now, I really love my birthday, but really don't like receiving presents, being the center of attention or my age. Back about 7 years ago, I decided that I would no longer celebrate my birthday, but the anniversary of my favorite birthday. Happy anniversary-birthday to me!

The kids made a lovely cake that tasted a hell of a lot better than it looked. Though beautiful, it would not make Food Network's top ten list. I took this photo after the candles where gone and a few tasty pieces eaten.

JJ is getting ready to burst, literally. The baby should be here by Monday (as if nature doesn't take it's course, her doctor will be helping things along). When we spoke yesterday, she was having fun picking out what her little sprite will wear home from the hospital. She has even knitted a hat, sweater and booties for him if it is cool enough . . . in Oklahoma. Somehow, I doubt it will be that cool. But they could always turn up the A/C a little (kidding!). Mom is there providing love, support and smothering helping JJ out. Yep.

I started this little project the other day. It is the bow-tied bolero from Simple Knits by Debbie Bliss. Having made this several times (it makes a quick and easy new baby gift), I can knit it in my sleep. Someone near and dear is having a baby and I wanted to knit her something for after the baby arrives. She is having a little girl, so this will be perfect.

I am using Debbie Bliss Pure Cotton yarn for the sweater. It is so soft! Definitely will use this yarn again.

Thursday, July 10, 2008

Seeing Double

So here is the finished product for JJ's little guys. This pattern is so easy to knit and goes fast. Too bad I don't have any more toddler boys to knit for.

I had to use the flash so the stitch definition would be clear. So, the colors are slightly off. I really think that JJ's boys will enjoy these sweaters with a pair of khaki shorts and sandals. Little Man looked adorable in it (his was the larger size) with white linen pants.

I had stated that the yarn matched perfectly despite a three year difference in knitting time. Well, I was wrong. The smaller size is a touch lighter than the larger. Yet to someone watching a toddler and infant, they will never notice. So, what the hey?!

JJ's new little man is due any day, with a scheduled induction for July 14. Um, sounds painful. We are all waiting with bated breath for the new little man to arrive. I'll keep you posted.

An now for the exciting details. I blogged about this here.

Pattern: Hooded Sweater by Debbie Bliss
Yarn: Caron Simply Soft
Needles: US 8 Bamboo Circular
Started: April 13, 2008
Finished: July 1, 2008
Notes: None, I was definitely taking the safe road on this one.