Cosmicknitter

February 7, 2018

Not Bad for a Monday (even though it’s Wednesday)

It was a productive and pleasant day. Work was very busy, but it always is when school is delayed due to weather; somehow those two hours get crammed in somehow. During lunch, I made some progress on knit on my ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas’ sock. Initially, I wasn’t crazy about Knit Picks Palette, but it is growing on me and I think the final result will be a nice, sturdy sock. I adore the pattern. It is easy enough to do and the result is very subtle. If you don’t know the designer (Dani), I recommend you check out her podcast Little Bobbins Knits. Bobbins is her pup and he makes a very cute co-host.

After work, we went to the gym. I stayed on the treadmill, but after reading a blog by AJ of A Petite Slice of Life , I was motivated to add a little running to the mix. I ran two miles. No, not all at once. I alternated walking with 5 minute intervals of running (trotting? lumbering?). My son was running on the treadmill to my left, and each time I switched from walking to running, he would look over and give me a high five.

I love catching up on knitting podcasts while I am doing cardio; really makes the time fly. Today, I watched one of my favorites, The Gentle Knitter. Nicole is from Canada and she has a quiet and soothing demeanor. Her work in a natural history museum speaks to the earth girl in me. Her episodes rarely exceed an hour, and the projects she creates are done in very muted and natural wool. As much as I love all the speckled this and fancy that, I prefer things a bit more earthy in nature. As she was sharing some of her recent FOs and give -away items, I decided to make it a goal this year to make a fair isle sweater for myself. If any of you have a favorite pattern, I would love to hear about it. Raglan style with a two-color yolk would be my preference. She is wearing the Branches and Buds pattern that seems to be everywhere these days, but I would be seeking out something a little less mainstream. I imagine I could take the main construction of the sweater and incorporate a different design on the yolk, but to be honest, I don’t think I have the skills. Isn’t the neckline beautiful? So feminine.

We are expecting snow in the Northeast tomorrow. Snow days = knitting days!

Currently casting on: The All-ways Cowl by Laura Nelkin. I have joined her 2018 First Quarter KAL. This will be my first project incorporating beads into my knitting, as well as my first KAL. The group is extremely helpful and Laura is very active as well, offering her guidance when people like me complicate the uncomplicated. (it’s a gift) I am only in the casting on stage so I have nothing to show. I do recommend you take one of her Craftsy classes, or if you really want a treat, participate in the Knit Stars series. Very cool!! After a few false starts, I am ready to cast on. All the beads have been strung.

The yarn is Crystal Palace Mini Mochi and I selected glass beads in various shades of mauve and pink. Soooo pretty!

That’s it for now. I hope you have a blessed day and if you have the good fortune to hug a doggo, do so at all cost! My hug will be going to this guy!

Sipping: Coffee, coffee and more coffee

Listening: To my boys playing video games!

Today’s Saint: St. Colette Read more about her here.

Love,

Regina

February 6, 2018February 6, 2018

The Measure of a Man…

The True Measure of a Man

There is an unpublished version of this quote. “The measure of a man is directly affected by how much snow is expected.”

I had such a nice post for today. I wrote it bright and early this morning. OK, so it was dark o’clock, but still lovely. It had photos and links and everything! I interrupt that post to bring you the following rant.

I live in New York. Not Southern New York where they get a possible ‘wintry mix’, or Upstate New York where your eyelashes freeze when you get the mail, but the Mid-Hudson Valley where, in the summer we have warm weather and thunderstorms and in the winter, we have snow. SNOW people…SNOW! We don’t need dog sleds or skis to get us from point A to point B because we have plows. Big trucks that move snow, destroy mailboxes and render lawns impossible to mow in the summer. Oh sure, we have blizzards and other extreme weather, but a foot of snow 12 hours from now, does not warrant jackass behavior! Driving to and from the supermarket this afternoon was a daredevil act not worth repeating. Listen up. In my humble opinion, nothing warrants tailgating. Some drivers took it to another level. If you want to drive THAT close to me, there better be a tornado chasing you. At the supermarket, as if cashiers we Zombie Minion ren’t already at a premium, some dear soul in her haste, dropped a glass jar of some awful smelling somethingorother, requiring that line to shut down while another one opened, as customers argued about who was in the line first. (This is a perfect example of why liquor should be sold in supermarkets). The one humorous moment came when an elderly woman on the line next to me, inquired if the Zombie Apocalypse was real. I want to kiss her whole face!!

Snow day or not, I will share my previously written post with you all tomorrow.

If you are in my neck of the woods, enjoy the day…grab a bottle, hunker down and knit.

On the ears: Madden Football for the PS4

In the glass: Santa Cristina Toscana

Have a wonderful evening.

Peace to you all!!

Regina

February 3, 2018February 3, 2018

I am really excited to write to you today

For the past few days, I have been telling the reasons why I have decided not to do a podcast at. this. time. Today, I am going off track to tell you why I considered it in the first place, and about the revelation I had on the treadmill.

I would say, the primary reason for considering podcasting is to be part of a larger knitting community, sharing what we love to do and a little bit about who we are. Sounds good, right? I think so. I did, however, become a little discouraged when many of the more popular podcasts became hour long episodes of frantic show and tell, coffee drinking and product promotion. Nothing wrong with that, but I was under the impression that there was no place in that world for me. I just don’t think that way, and it would not make me happy. I would never want to make someone feel they need to have all the fancy notions or project bags in order to knit. It isn’t practical, and in my case, I am very happy with what I use. Then I went to the gym, and while on the treadmill, I started to search for podcasts that are less familiar. Enter Michelle Carter’s “My So-Called Handmade Life” The episode that came up was #3. I typically search out episode #1 because they tend to have a little ‘getting to know me’ in the beginning. However, this episode was just what I needed to hear. She spoke at length about the relationships formed by virtual means such as podcasting, blogging and sites like Ravelry. She shared how fulfilling these relationships have been to her. And that’s when I started thinking (typically dangerous, but in this case, productive). Here’s why. I live in Rhinebeck. Yup, The Rhinebeck. In fact, I live directly across from the Fairgrounds. Yup, The Fairgrounds, yet every year I attend the NYS Sheep and Wool Festival alone. Don’t get me wrong, I enjoy my company (we never disagree, never argue and we like the same food), but to attend an event like Rhinebeck with my only real social interactions occurring while on line at Miss Babs, is somewhat saddening to me. Large crowds give me terrible anxiety. Just going to the event alone is a monumental feat for me. How wonderful it would be to have familiar faces to look for in that crowd! Oh, I see many people I know, but they are milling about with their own group of friends, and I am not comfortable inserting myself into their plans…that goes back to my insecurity. What if I had plans of my own? That’s when I start to doubt myself. Would people really want to spend time with me? Actually, I think they would. I have a great personality, quirky sense of humor and I’m a really genuine person. Yet I go to “Rhinebeck” alone.

So, while everyone is writing about #goals and choosing words to inspire their year, I am going to make 2018 about finding a date for Rhinebeck!

Here is where you come in. Would you consider sharing my blog? Maybe something I have written will resonate with someone. Maybe there are people who avoid going because of anxiety or lack of companionship. Maybe that person is YOU! We could go and be anxious together!

My husband just planted a yummy smooch on me…

As I was saying… Do you think this is possible? Do you have the same feelings as me, or do you have a posse that you enjoy festivals with? Here’s a question for you: Do you have a friend you only know in the virtual sense? How about one you met through Ravelry or blogging? Have you ever met your online friends in person?

I really feel good about this. I feel like I can finally overcome a hangup that has been gnawing at me for years. I also feel better about podcasting because I have been watching ones that don’t speak to me!

After listing to her podcast, please take a look at Michelle’s blog, also called “My So-Called Handmade Life”. I think she is really special and I would like to meet her some day.

On the needles: Little Bobbins Knits “Twas the Night Before Christmas” sock. Here is #1, it’s unblocked and really cute:

In the cup: Twinnings Green Tea – Jasmine

On the ears: Razz’s snoring

Check out the Saint of the Day: St. Blaise. He is patron of throat illnesses, animals, wool combers, and wool trading! I always knew the history behind throat illnesses, but his association with wool really surprised me!! I am dedicating this post to all my woolie friends, those I know and those I look forward to meeting.

Be well,

Love, Regina.

February 2, 2018

I Changed My Mind

This is post 5 of 7 (remember I promised 7? or actually 6 because Sunday is the Superbowl?) I had a very captivating post planned for you, however…my son returned home from the Army today and I am finding myself a bit puddly.

Let’s talk tomorrow, ok?

Sweet dreams.

Love,

Regina

February 1, 2018February 1, 2018

Day 4, Reason 4

Halloween 2017 – The theme was “SCARY” so I went as a basket of my son’s dirty laundry

I would not want to spend my free time looking at my face, why would you? I know that sounds dorky, but another reason I decided against podcasting is insecurity. That’s legit, right?

Did you know? Directions for laundering microfiber cleaning/dusting cloths specific state NO FABRIC SOFTENER. This is most likely because the effectiveness of these gems is in part due to static electricity.

Did you also know? Static electricity causes fabrics to cling to each other? You probably did.

True confession: My husband walked around NYC for business one day wearing a dust cloth under his shirt. He discovered it in the men’s room of a restaurant at the end of his day. He still loves me, bless his heart.

The fourth project I finished recently was a baby blanket for the knitting art club we have at the middle school. Every year, the art teacher provides yarn, needles and instruction to students interested in knitting a blanket for the NICU of a local hospital. It is remarkable what these kids can accomplish! Some take to it like a fish to water. This year she donated over 120 hand knit/crocheted items. We were blessed with a donation of yarn this year from local yarn goddess, Jill Draper. Please take a moment and visit her Etsy shop Jill Draper Makes Stuff Her yarn is beautiful and her heart is expansive.

The blanket I knit was from an existing stash. I don’t care for the yarn, it split easily, but the colors are so pretty. I did not use a pattern, and I added cables when knitting the purple parts. I did not take a photo of the finished blanket. I blocked it aggressively and the end result was less crinkly and more lacy.

Sipping: Lavazzo Espresso Perfetto Blend (don’t be impressed, it’s for the Keurig)

Listening: Jessica by the Allman Brothers Band – Brothers and Sisters (can’t. get. enough.)

Saint du jour: St. Bridgid, patron of Ireland, dairymaids, cattle, midwives, Irish nuns, and newborn babies. I like this lady. With Killian as a maiden name what’s not to love. Apparently, Bridgid’s mother was baptized by St. Patrick! Let’s keep everyone under her care close to our hearts.

Peace to all!

Regina

I posted an adorable photo of Razz here

January 31, 2018February 1, 2018

And On The Third Day…

Welp, if you are into Genesis of the written, not musical type, day 3 was pretty amazing. My ‘day 3’ pales in comparison. This is your opportunity to politely exit the room. Or impolitely for that matter because I am happy you stayed with me this long.

I work at a school. I belong to a union. I am the secretary to that union. I love the work I do. Presently, we are in the early stage of negotiations with the district. I met with my fellow officers this afternoon to review the initial proposal to the district. While there were a few items needing clarification, the overall proposal was fine. For. The. Most. Part. What did not agree with me were items that ‘real’ people, the walking, talking people of earth, would consider a benefit, luxury or dare I say, privilege.

Where in the heck am I going with this? Not sure if I know the answer myself, but I promised another thought on podcasting, and I am not one to disappoint!

I love watching podcasts, but there are so many. When I think about why I like one over another it basically comes down to stuff. This is a very scientific and technical term, yo. I don’t know. I have a difficult time with stuff. Yarn stuff. Project bag stuff. Progress marker stuff. I know much of what is shared on podcasts is donated by vendors and such, but to the average Joe, it is stuff none the less. Is it necessary to have new purchases every week? Is it necessary to have That. Latest. Pattern. By. Her? I fondly recall the early days of knitting. I knit because someone’s grandmother died and left a black hefty bag of cat pee smelling yarn behind. My stitch markers were the multi-colored/sized Goody hair bands.

Goody I loved Ravelry because it was free, and when I went into JoAnn’s or Walmart, I grabbed every single free pattern I could find. When I purchased Lion Brand Wool-Ease Yarn I thought I “arrived”! Those were wonderful days. I took nothing for granted and everything, even a wool sweater at a yard sale had potential. Now, I have more stuff. I have stitch markers that are made and bought or gifted. I have two shelves in a closet for my stash and my project bags are lunchboxes (but really, REALLY awesome lunchboxes). So, going forward, I don’t want to share with you anything- knitting or otherwise-for any reason other than to show you something that is special to me. It will upset me very much if I make one person feel like they have to have IT.

Does any of this make sense? It’s OK if it doesn’t. It feels right in my little head and my little heart and that’s fine by me.

On to knitting! Well, it’s about time, woman! sheesh.

The second Scoreboard Cowl I knit was in Green Bay Packers colors. Little did I know that Aaron Rogers would go out with an injury in game 6; I would have ordered less green and more yellow yarn!

I love this pattern. It’s not really a pattern, though. It’s just a fun way to knit and watch the football game. Next year I plan to knit one in Pittsburgh Steelers Colors.

On the ears: The Allman Brothers Band: Eat A Peach (free to stream with an Amazon account)

In the glass: Cantina Zaccagnini Montepulciano d’Abruzzo ($12.99 at a store near you!!)

P.S. I am growing fonder of this font. Looks better live than in draft. Sorry, I have a thing about fonts.

Today’s Saint is John Bosco, patron of apprentices, editors and publishers, schoolchildren, magicians, and juvenile delinquents. Let’s keep these souls in our prayers today.

Peace to all!

Love,

Regina

January 30, 2018

Don’t Stop Me Now

I’m on a roll.
Two consecutive posts? I think this is a first. I named these “Dead On My Feet” because the yarn is part of Lolodidit‘s Pretty Little Zombies, in the “I :heart: Michonne” colorway on the plush sock base.

: Dead On My Feet

I did the usual 2×2 ribbing and generic leg, two at a time magic loop on a 40″ 2 US Addi Sock Rockets. I heard the Fish Lips Kiss Heel mentioned on a number of podcasts, so I thought I would give it a go. I completed the sock with a round toe and kitchener finish. If you don’t own the FLKH pattern, I recommend you do. The designer charges $1.00 (I know!!) and it is definitely something to keep in your bag o’ tricks. It is easy, quick and makes a smooth turn without any gaps. I don’t think it will replace the heel flap/gusset for me, because I am hard on my socks, but it is nice for when you want very little interruption in the pattern of your yarn.

On a different topic. I have been toying with the idea of podcasting for about a year now. I recorded my first episode the other day. At the risk of disappointing the knitting world, I have decided against it. For now. I think it goes back to yesterday’s quote about busy-ness. I do not fare well when my obligation/option ratio is out of whack and I certainly don’t want anything knitting related to be an obligation. One of the designers I follow put out an all-call for test knitters. I was not one of those selected. Later that day I watched one of my favorite podcasts, The Gentle Knitter, and she spoke of how little she knit for pleasure because she was regularly asked to be a test knitter-knitting to deadlines, taking copious notes and unable to share her work with those who follow her program. Not my kinda gig. Is it yours? If so, why? Has there ever been a time when you didn’t enjoy knitting? I can think of one or two times myself. I am curious to hear your experiences. Is this a ‘thing’?

Tomorrow, I’ll share another recently finished object and more observations on podcasting.

Trufax: Today’s Saint of the Day is St. Aldegunais (who I have never heard of…). She is patron of cancer suffers and wounds. Let’s keep those who are suffering in mind today.

Be well,

Regina

January 29, 2018March 10, 2019

“Jesus is Coming. Look busy!”

Saw this on a bumper sticker and it cracked me up. Seriously though. What’s all the fuss about being busy. I think it is highly overrated and I’m pretty sure Jesus would agree. That being said, I want to update you on what’s been happening in the Cosmicknitter Universe. Since the Universe was not made in one day, I think I’ll see what territory I can cover in 7 days…ok, 6 days-Sunday is the Superbowl.

I finished two sweet pairs of socks in the fall. The first pair was on some self-striping commercial yarn I found at Michael’s with purple as the dominant color. You can find my project page here: School Spirit Socks
Continue reading ““Jesus is Coming. Look busy!””

April 30, 2017April 30, 2017

Water, Water Everywhere and Not a Drop to Drink

tsunami

Yeah, so apparently, I was supposed to disconnect the hose from the spigot at the end of the summer in order to avoid a pipe burst. Who knew? The sunny side of a flooded basement is that I now have a clear idea of how spring cleaning is going to look like at the Messa household. One thing can be said about water: it doesn’t discriminate.

April 28, 2017April 28, 2017

Today is Razzle’s Birthday!

Razzle turns 8 years old today. He rescued us when he was 4. I don’t know how I ever got by without him. Tonight we are tailgating with him at Holy Cow Ice Cream.

Happy Birthday, Razzle!!

Happy Birthday Razz

This is too good not to share!

This is too good not to share!

This is too good not to share!

This is too good not to share!

This is too good not to share!

This is too good not to share!

This is too good not to share!

This is too good not to share!

This is too good not to share!

This is too good not to share!