M is for Monday,

Mac & cheese and more progress. I am almost to the divide for the sleeves on the wee little baby hoodie. Dinner tonight was homemade Mac & Cheese with ham, green onions and a dash of Cayenne.

P is for Progress

and for Purl, Pattern, Panification, and Pirates. All of which were involved in my nice, but sadly nap deficient, Saturday.

Progress was made on the baby hoodie, which did involve purling and a pattern, which I am, of course, modifying a teensy bit.


Panification produced some very tasty buns, from a variation of an Artisan Bread in Five Minutes a Day recipe. I will definitely be using the buttermilk dough again.


Pirates of the Caribbean III was the movie I watched while I waited for the Marble Bundt cake to come out of the oven. It doesn't begin with 'P', but it does have rum in it, and rum goes with Pirates so I am including it in my list of progresses. The recipe turned out okay, not great, so I will continue to be on the look-out a recipe, more to my liking, to add to my collection.

Best Laid Plans

Quality sleep is something I have been sorely missing of late, and I had planned to sleep as late as was humanly possible today, or at least as late as the cats would allow. Imagine my urge to maim disappointment when the jackasses workmen next door decided to begin grinding and cutting crap for some installation first thing this morning. So much for sleep.

After feeding the cats, so they would stop circling like sharks and a few chocolate covered jubes to ease my nerves I am here to post something I had planned on posting a few days ago. Actual knitting progress. A whole knitted baby bonnet, okay I still have to weave in the ends. Even more of a shocker, the sweater intended to accompany the bonnet is already on the needles. I tell ya, it's damn near a miracle.

For the bonnet, I have used the Fuzzy Brim Baby Bonnet pattern, and converted the fuzzy brim bit into a garter stitch folded brim. I also opted for three stitch i-cord for the ties instead of crochet.



If Satan's minions the workmen continue on their current course, therefore making a nap completely impossible, there may even be bread baking. My Foodie Girl Stumbled me to buns, a variation of Artisan Bread in Five Minutes a Day, I'm dying to try.

Never Know What a Day Will Bring

Today turned out to be a little less relaxing than I had originally intended, but at least the day didn't race by at warp speed. The majority of the day was spent with a friend who was feeling a little under the weather. For me, it's always worse to see those I care about not feeling well, then to not feel well myself. After coming home, I frogged and re-cast on the Feathers & Fan dishcloth, due to a mistake I had made. Then I baked up a yummy B-Day treat for a co-worker friend. Here's a peek.


Lemon bars. Yeah, the picture is not the greatest, but they are very tasty. Now I am off to watch Transformers 'til I drift off to dreamland.

By-Products of Insomnia

Usual suggestions to combat insomnia; warm milk, count sheep, a warm bath. Those don't work for me. What do I do for insomnia? I usually bake, or I knit. Tonight, I did both. I baked cookies, Toffee Chocolate Almond Crunchies to be precise. When those were done, and I was still unable to sleep, I turned to the knitting. I decide on something small and while hunting on Ravelry found this dishcloth.

The Dishcloth seems like it will be a fun little pattern. I have never tried the feathers and fan stitch before. The cookies are delicious and were fairly easy. However I think that I need to pick up a silpat or two before the next time I bake them up. The toffee bits make the cookies stick.

Knit or Death

As promised, a knitting post, finally. Though I still haven't done any actual knitting recently. Here today I am presenting yet another list, a knitting related list. I might have mentioned one or two of these items before. I am not including any WIP's on this list. They are in no particular order.

Five Items I Will Knit This Year (Even if it kills me)

1. Chunky Beret, Emma has ordered requested that this be on the list.

2. Ballband Dishcloth, I know it's just a dishcloth but I have been dying to try this pattern.

3. Airy Wrap Lace Sweater, I love this for me, probably in black, or maybe plum.

4. Socks, I am thinking this pattern might be good for a start, then maybe I could work up to something fancier.

5. Cabled Bag, I just can't decide on a colour, maybe something funky and bright ... just like me.

Back To Knit

My Favourite Places to Knit

1. In bed, while watching a movie.

2. While walking, especially home from work.

3. Curled up on the couch.

4. In the backyard, on a nice summer day.

5. On a long drive.(Never mind that I don't drive, or have access to a car.)

Thou Shalt Not Covet

I believe it mentions thy neighbour's wife and thy neighbour's ass, but if I remember correctly, there was nothing about yarn.


Top 5 Yarns I'd Really Like to Knit With. (& maybe fondle just a little)


1. Black Orchid, by Rabbitch. I fell in love with this the moment I saw it online. The colours are so extraordinarily sexy and just make me want to sink myself into them like bathwater.

2. Sea Silk, by Handmaiden. I want this yarn so bad, but it's just a teeny bit pricey. I'm sure that it is more than worth it. I think I like the Blackberry colour way best. However, even though I'm not usually a fan of pink, I also kinda like the Sangria.

3. Cashlana, by Fleece Artist. This looks simply delicious, there is no other way to describe it. I like colour ways Peacock and Indian Summer best.

4. ArtYarns. These all look so fun and sumptous, I've been smitten since I first saw some on The Nocturnal Knit Witch, I just cant decide which one, either Silk Fur in colour way #123 or Supermerino in colour way #155.

5. Kureyon, by Noro. I have head this is kinda scratchy at first, but I would still love to give it a try. I like colour ways #213 and #188 best.

Another List.

Today's list, top ten things I want to knit. To clarify, this is a list of items that I want to knit, if we lived in a perfect world. However, since we don't, due to time and funds they may not all be completed before being bumped off the list. This list also does not include things others have asked for, unless of course they happen to ask for something I actually really want to knit. I am listing these as the top ten, but there is really no specific order in which I want to knit them.

Top 10 Things I Want to Knit.

1. Lucie, an awesome sweater I would like to knit for me.
2. Coachella, another me, not sure how flattering it might be, but it looks fun.
3. Cleaves, for Em... it's funky & I can live vicariously through her,
not sure it would work with my rather ample bosom.
4. Tubey, in a solid for me and stripes for Em.
5. Bondok, larger & in a darker colour.

We are now at the half way point. In case you're dizzy from all the linkage, maybe you'd like to warm up your tea, or grab a cookie.

6. Skuld, I love this, this one has a shot at actually becoming reality.
7. Hug, one for me, one for Em, one for Meg.
8. Sedona, for Meg... they look like fun and I think she'd like them.
9. Charles, for Meg, she'd adore it, and it looks so easy.
10. Socks, no link, 'cause I haven't decided on a pattern
Honestly, I've never knit socks and they scare the heck outta me.

Honorable mention goes to...

Celia, I absolutely love this and think it is incredibly sexy, it only gets an honorable mention for two reasons. One, it's crochet and not knit, a technicality. Two, the sizing isn't large enough for me, and there is that ample bosom thing I mentioned earlier.

NaBloPoMo status - Two down, twenty-nine to go.
Think you're up for it? We'll see if I am.

It May be Contagious

First off, let's pretend that it has not been almost two months since my last post. We (meaning me), are going to overlook that little detail and move ahead.

Anyone who knows me well, and probably a few who don't know me so well, know that I love to cook and bake as much as I love to knit. I often think this blog looks more like a cooking blog that a knitting one, but they're both a part of me.

Well...

I think I may have contracted a new addiction. Bread making. My Foodie Girl, aka: Kelly, and I discussed this book, a while back, then she went and bought it. She kindly shared her experiences and the recipe formula, and now I too have the "Bread Making Disease". Yeah, 'cause there weren't already enough carbs in my life. Although, in my own defense I have already shared my bread making results with my children, my friend Kim, neighbours, and several co workers, so at least I am not hording. The first batch of dough never even made it in to the fridge. The second managed a whole 12 hrs or so before being delved into to make a few cheesy, herby rolls.

I have had to slightly modify my cooking method from what the recipe suggests. I don't have a baking stone, so I have utilised the method from another no-knead bread. I place my Grandmother's cast iron dutch oven into the oven, and allow it to pre-heat. When the dough has rested and the oven is fully pre-heated I carefully plop the semi-shaped dough into the pot and place on the lid. I then let the bread bake and turn into a much desired orb of yummyness. Works pretty well, the crust is crispy, yet not to tough and the bread is light and moist without being either too dense or too wholey. I definitely think this will become a problem. Between, cookies, cupcakes, biscuits and now bread, I may need a part time job just to supplement the costs of baking supplies, not too mention the knitting supplies.

Speaking of knitting, it's been a little slow. I have been experiencing some hand an wrist troubles that occasionally get in the way, and I'm still busy playing with the new oven. I did however manage to finish a hat for little Charlie Girl, requested by her Mom. A Bumble Bee! I love the way it turned out. It is exactly as I imagined it, and it was very easy. A simple, striped , rolled brim hat with i-cord antennae.


One more thing, Kelly has coerced me into attempting to partake in National Blog Posting Month or NaBloPoMo as it is more commonly known. It is apparently going monthly. I will try. However, I don't always have access to the internet on weekends, so I can't make any promises.

Congrats to the Kiddles

I forgot to share, my Em (aka Tall Child) won a cash prize at school for having her artwork selected to be included with a CD they're making. Honour roll and winning artwork, and second semester hasn't even begun yet. Megan will be performing a solo at the school's upcomming Christmas concert, and has a role in the school's production of High School Musical. Just to re-afirm, I am very proud of both of my girls, not just for their accomplishments, I am exceedingly proud of them for the people that they are.


On a knitting note, apparently it's genetic. Here is a peek at the progress Meg has made on her pink camo, garter stitch scarf. It's with Bernat Camouflage yarn, knitted on pink metalic 4.5mm needles.

Speaking of camouflage, here is Marzipan, blending in with the blanket on my bed.

Bonnet Completedness

Mocha & Bonnet.JPG
Originally uploaded by Moonlit Knit

What a quick little knit this bonnet is. I would definitely use the pattern again, though I did make a few modifications. Mocha decided to help with the photo by posing next to the bonnet for size comparison. I plan on playing with the pattern to make a ruffled brim. I also think it would look fabulous in funkier colours. Truth be told, I'm just glad I have it
done in time for delivery
before little Lorelei's arrival.

Progress.

Charlie Girl's kitty hat is finished, and I love it! Let's hope she does as well. I'm sure she will look absolutely adorable in it. I've cast on the bonnet for Baby Lorelei, and am almost half way through the pattern. It's quite easy, although the recommended yarn is a little thinner than it should be. It's pretty cute too.


Last week when I picked up the yarn for Charlie's hat, I also found this awesome, yummy looking yarn. I can't wait to try it out, though I have no idea what I'm going to use it for. I'll let you know once I figure it out, for now I'll just admire and fondle it.

Third time's the charm?

Who the heck knew my daughter could get chicken pox three times? Certainly not me. At least this time she seems to be recovering quickly. Hopefully, this will be the last go round with it.

Knitting progress? Thankfully, there has been some. This weekend I completed the body of the orange toddler cardigan, and finished the shoulder seams with a three needle bind off. I then picked up the stitches for the button band and collar, all 265 of them. It'll be done in seed stitch. I have knitted a few rows, but 265 stitches in one row seems to take forever. To amuse myself, I have re-cast on Charlie's Kitty hat, with a new yarn. Bernat Satin Sport, in black and plum. I'm loving the way it's knitting up and I needed a portable project. I have several small knitting commissions that will be great as on the go projects. Wow, reading it looks weird, I guess I don't think of the things people ask me to knit as "Commissions". When I think of my little knitting projects, the word "commissions" seems so pretentious.

Due to my lack of photo uploadage, instead I will share more about me, in case ya cared. I stole this from Kelly , her Facebook(I'm not sure if she stole it from someone first), I like to give credit where credit is due.

Be honest....
1. Where were you 6 hours ago? Home.
2. Who will be your next kiss? My daughters.
3. Is there anything pink within 10 feet of you? If so, it's Meg's.
4. When is the last time you went to the mall? Saturday.
5. Are you wearing socks right now? Yes.
6. When was the last time you went out of the province? 2003-ish, to Atlanta.
7. Have you been to the movies in the last 5 days? Nope.
8. What was the last thing you had to drink? Cherry Kool-Aid.
9. What are you wearing right now? Yoga pants and a t-shirt, both black.
10. What was your last purchase? Yarn.
11. Last food you ate? Cheese, applewood smoked cheddar.
12. When was the last time you were upset? Friday.
14. Do you have a pet? Two cats, Mocha & Marzipan.
15. What's the last sporting event you watched? So long, I don't remember.
16. What is your favorite class(es)? I don't take any.
17. Who are your favorite people in your classes? See above.
18. If you could be anywhere right now, where would you be? In bed... & with room service.
19. What is the last thing you purchased online? I don't shop online, I'd spend too much.
20. What's your favorite soup? My Grandma's beef barley.
21. Do you miss anyone? My Dad, and...
22. Last play you saw? One at my daughter's school, last year.
23. What are your plans for the day? Today is almost done.
24. Who is the last person you got a comment from on facebook? Jess.
25. Ever go to camp? Brownie & Guide.
26. Were you an honor roll student in school? Nope, but my daughter is.
27.What do you know about the future? Nothing, it's probably better that way.
28. Are you wearing any perfume or cologne? Neither.
29. Where is your best friend(s) located? Dorchester
30. Do you have a tan? No.
31. How old do you want to be when you have kids? I was 23 & 26.
32. Do people hate you? Probably, but that's their issue.
33. Have you ever drank your soda from a straw? Yes.
34. How do you like your soda? With tonnes of ice, but I prefer iced tea.
35. Do you like hot sauce? Sometimes.
36. Who do you like? Someone.
37. Do they like you? Maybe.
38. Are you someone's best friend? I'm not sure.
39. What's the last TV show you watched? Can't remember, something on the Food Network.
40. Are you addicted to a certain kind of gum? Nope, I don't chew gum. I like mints.


Tune in next time for "More Crap About Me that You Never Wanted to Know".

More Weekly Randomness

Okay, I hate the cold. I know, being Canadian I'm supposed to like it, but I just can't do it. Of course it doesn't help that the cold seems to intensify the joint/muscle pain I now constantly experience. I wish they would diagnose what's wrong with me so they can cure it or treat it. I'll stop whining now.

Knitting progress, once more inch and the body of the orange toddler cardigan is done, then I'll pick up the stitches for the sleeves. After the sleeves I'll be picking up stitches for the collar (and possibly button band). I haven't decided if it will be a zip or button up. Then comes a slew of little hats. I love quick knits. Christmas knitting..that's just a dream of mine.

Dinner, tonight will be a "silly supper", which usually means cereal. So I will show you a photo of Tuesday's yummy focaccia bread pizza. It was topped with pancetta, salami, spinach and bocconcini. It was easy and delicious.

Randomness.

Work ended prematurely today due to a nifty power outage, which gratefully did not affect my home. This means, the cats and I had an afternoon nap. Tonight's menu; spinach, tomato and bocconcini pizzas on naan bread. They were very yummy. Here's photographic evidence.



On the knitting front, Ravelry is my new addiction. There is just so much to look at.

On the cat front, a photo of a kitten (who loves mashed potatoes) in her natural habitat.

In the spirit of self discovery and sharing, I took this quiz. Does it sound like me?

You Are a Warrior Soul

You're a strong person and sometimes seen as intimidating. You don't give up. You're committed and brave. Truly adventuresome, you are not afraid of going to battle. Extremely protective of loved ones, you root for the underdog. You are picky about details and rigorous in your methods. You also value honesty and fairness a great deal. You can be outspoken, intimidating, headstrong, and demanding. You're a hardliner who demands the best from themselves and others. Souls you are most compatible with: Old Soul and Peacemaker Soul

What Kind of Soul Are You?

Tidbit Tuesday

Here we are again, it's Tidbit Tuesday. To begin, a photo, taken by me. This is in fact, my favourite photo taken of my summer garden. It shows an orchid petunia, my Mexican luck pots and one little bacoppa blossom. Interesting trivial fact, this arrangement is actually just to the side of the back kitchen door.


Speaking of kitchen, here's look at dinner this evening. It consisted of Maple pork chops with applesauce, red potatoes with butter & fresh dill, and pan fried brussel sprouts. There was mint chocolate chip ice cream and chocolate cupcakes for dessert.


Finally, on the knitting front, here's a peek at the progress on the orange toddler sweater, with a cute little Jack O'lantern for mood. Interesting trivial fact (or maybe not so interesting), this photo was taken on my bed.

Recipes currently under consideration ... Cranberry Jalapeno Relish, Crantini Jelly and Spiced Apple & Red Pepper Jelly

Life Span of a Cabled Scarf

Here is a look at the progress I've made on the cabled scarf, the one intended as a gift for Emma's friend. It's a fairly easy knit, with a nice soft yarn and was actually moving along quite well, until . . .




Until Em had a look, and decided that it looked very... "Old Lady". So, after much thought, discussion, yarn perusal, and some swatching here is how the cabled scarf is currently looking. How's that for progress? Kids .. just can't please 'em.



Have no fear though, a new, and hopefully much less "Old Lady" scarf has been begun. It's just on the back burner until I catch up with all of the other knitting on my list.

Glory's Finale ?

This is the sight that greeted me when I walked along the path to my back door after work today. Isn't it lovely? It definitely brightened my day, which was in dire need of it. This beautiful flower also made me just a little sad. The days have turned cold and the sky is a little grey .. this will probably be the last of this year's Morning Glories, I will miss their bright, colourful faces greeting me as I head out in the morning. Wondering which colour will bloom next. It's okay though, I have saved the seeds and will plant them in the spring as always.





Tonight is a quiet evening. Knitting, Supernatural and Grey's Anatomy. Here's a look at a little progress on the cabled scarf.

Yumminess & Knitted bits.

Holy blog posts Batman, two in two days!



The stew was a hit, at least everyone who's tasted it has enjoyed it .... maybe they're just lying to boost my ego, either way, I consider it a success.




I almost forgot to share the Thanksgiving goodies. It was quiet, non-traditional, and celebrated a day early. The flowers were pretty and the food was tasty, it was very nice.




There has even been some progress on the knitting front. I'm steadily working away on the bright orange toddler sweater. I'm pretty much making it up as I go along, trying for as few seams as possible. I really hate seaming knits. I've decided on a knit 3, purl 2 rib, and I'm loving the way it looks.



Began a soft cabled scarf for a friend of the teen. It's a very simple pattern and I love the yummy yarn, one of my faves to knit with. I think it'll turn out be quite nice, a slightly quirky classic, just like it's intended recipient. In the works is also the purple and black Kittyville for Charlie. Then there will be a pink bonnet for the homecoming of a yet unarrived baby girl. I kinda like this pattern, but will have to run it by the mom first.