tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-362166012012-02-04T15:23:56.777-05:00Mostly talk about knitting, spinning and cross stitch from my corner of the world. Thoughts on changes in my life, dealing with depression and anxiety disorders and boasting about kids and grandkids.Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.comBlogger781100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-83123162077681670192012-02-04T15:23:00.001-05:002012-02-04T15:23:56.782-05:00

Wow, didn't January fly by.  Now it's February and the durn groundhog saw his shadow so we're due six more weeks of winter.  Considering how warm this winter has been, we may need some real winter to keep the mosquito population down for summer.  We have daffodils and forsythia blooming now - about five weeks too early. I've knit - finishing a pair of socks:  Presenting Berry Moon, from the

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-1885535909197450842012-01-01T12:21:00.000-05:002012-01-01T12:42:32.519-05:00

Wishing all of you a very Happy 2012.   My promises to myself: 1. relearn spinning cotton, ramie and flax (linen).  I learned these decades ago and want to relearn as the raw material is easier to obtain now. 2. continue my learning curve on the support spindle.  This is a spindle that is spun while the base tip is resting in a bowl or other smooth surface.  I'm using a 6 oz custard cup.   The

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com0Antioch, TN 37013, USA36.0207224 -86.640955435.9179804 -86.79888389999999 36.123464399999996 -86.4830269tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-70145702309094900922011-11-14T18:41:00.001-05:002011-11-14T19:13:08.244-05:00

 I had my Saturday at Fiber in the 'Boro and I thoroughly enjoyed my day.  The day was a success and will be back next year (YES!). I was the first at the spinner's circle and others came and left during the day.  I only stopped once to wander, buy some fibery things and a bottle of water.  I haven't taken pictures of all the stash enhancement but here come a few: This is 10 lbs of

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-88517740658114182252011-10-22T09:41:00.000-04:002011-10-22T09:41:58.351-04:00

One of my original thoughts about this blog was to help me finish my UFO's (unfinished objects) in the various crafts I do.  Knitting, spinning, counted cross stitch, embroidery and quilting.  I also do crochet but don't have any UFO's there.  There are some hardanger projects too.  Anyway, my oldest is a project of embroidery - placemats and napkins to embroider and then finish the edges.  That

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-68350928140712777732011-09-16T02:55:00.001-04:002011-09-16T02:55:57.871-04:00

The title comes from a suggestion from my son.  We have now had 2 skunks decide that our totally fenced back yard is the perfect place to kick up their feet and die.  While I do love my back yard - I wish the skunks would not. What we do have in our backyard are migrating butterflies.  They seem to love our zinnias. I  I counted six of them while I was out this morning.  That's a tomato

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-68936486328774153932011-09-16T02:55:00.000-04:002011-09-16T02:55:16.139-04:00

Frequently my computer and I don't get along.  I don't know if it is a human vs machine thing, artifical intelligence as a reality or some sort of time/space issue.  The result is I shut the thing down in some form or fashion and walk away.  This is what happened during my last blog entry.  The saved draft did not survive the trauma. I will try to recreate some of what I had previously done

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-4577880177315761982011-07-22T13:31:00.000-04:002011-07-22T13:31:05.921-04:00

I started some new socks while on vacation.  The pattern is called Inlay and was found at Knitty.com, here. Well in the middle of a brain storm, I tried the first one on a few minutes ago - and they are too small.  Well the leg section is too small.  The 1.5 sized needles and my gauge must be off.  Normally I knit right on with gauge.  AND this pattern called for size 1, and I deliberately went

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-33367336697272142882011-05-29T20:18:00.000-04:002011-05-29T20:18:50.450-04:00

This is Memorial Day Weekend in the US.  It is a time to honor those who have served, possibly giving their lives so we may enjoy the freedoms we have. That said: DH  US Navy 1969 - 1979 active duty.  2 additional years reserve time. My Uncle P.  US Army My computer and I are not playing well together so I will just list others and add photos when the rules of the

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-41584247838286790342011-03-05T23:44:00.000-05:002011-03-05T23:44:52.350-05:00

Cataract surgery, that is.  I've had the right eye done and the left one will be done this coming Wednesday.  This is about the easiest surgery I have ever had.  Don't change clothes, get an IV and 2 extra strength Tylenol and about 30 minutes.  Meds in the Valium family to make you less nervous but not asleep.  Wow.  The worst part was the three drops in each eye every 2 hours afterward.  5

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-38913850872125299882011-01-01T13:36:00.000-05:002011-01-01T13:36:23.749-05:00

Happy 2011 one and all.  2010 was both good and bad - probably the same for everyone. On this first day of 2011, people usually look forward - making resolutions for things they want to accomplish, goals to set - and for some, nursing the mother of all hangovers.   My goals are simple I think.  First and foremost to get my depression/anxiety under control again as I am sliding back downhill. 

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-45842081436798926962010-11-20T16:37:00.000-05:002010-11-20T16:37:42.570-05:00

I finished some more things - so want to post while I remember to.  First off, the Owl Hat for DGD#2...  This went really quickly - except sewing 36 buttons on.  It's cute and she loves pink and purple and birds... so I have 2 of 3. Then with empty needles I decided I wanted something for me.  My feet have been cold - so socks...Hermione's Everyday socks by Erica Lueder. I downloaded the pattern

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-33155051737387232022010-11-07T17:10:00.000-05:002010-11-07T17:10:23.904-05:00

Let's see if I can manage to update monthly and improve from there.   I finished some socks.. and some others with photos not taken yet.  I started a hat for another Christmas present.  Have about 3 hours more work and the knitting is done.  Then I have to buy and attach a bunch of buttons. Next task will be 2 more handknit gifts and some thoughts for gifts for other family members. I've also

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-33693067645743248262010-10-06T20:34:00.001-04:002010-10-06T20:35:49.390-04:00

Here I go again - and let's see if I can stick with it a bit better this time around.  I've been inspired a bit watching a video blog - and I can't remember the name.  When I do I'll link it here. So what have I been up to... Knitting and spinning and work and, and, and.  This may be a bit photo heavy but here goes... First of all, Silk Hankies dyed by AllSpunUp.  It's been a really long

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-16892865026868960042010-05-09T10:52:00.000-04:002010-05-09T10:52:04.991-04:00

Wow it's been a long time between postings.  Time is going by so quickly that I just ... well no time for excuses. The first weekend of May saw 13.57 inches of rain in the Nashville TN area.  We came through just fine - one small leak near the chimney.  Neighbors had problems with lots of water - some in their homes.  I think we're on the high spot on the cul-de-sac.   I used to think that the

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-46719396372386733232010-01-24T22:37:00.000-05:002010-01-24T22:37:30.675-05:00

Whooo Hooo The Dragon Hat is done!!! The red is so intense it appears to glow on this.  The blue background is more of a dark royal blue with the ribbing a navy blue.  So it gets mailed off this week with the AAAAAA is for Wallaby and hopefully the kids will enjoy them. Next up - finish the Ruched Scarf - and the swatch for Nana's Sweater both from Interweave Knits Winter 2009.  I've also

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-40296528803121611992010-01-18T21:19:00.000-05:002010-01-18T21:19:17.236-05:00

Sweater #3 for grandson A is now done.  Finished last night and now I have a hat about half way done for the baby.  Dragons are not always easy to knit.  I've started the flames he's breathing and have about 2/3rds of the wings to do. Fire Ruched Scarf is done - well the knitting is done.  The finishing will probably take as long as the knitting.  I LOVE the colors of this one.  Photos when it

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-12693619061332590952010-01-04T08:38:00.005-05:002010-01-04T09:03:14.402-05:00

Happy New Year to one and all. I think things have settle down a bit so maybe more can be written and I can accomplish a bit more than last year.In 2009 I finished 2 pairs of socks and two sweaters. I think I would have finished at least one more sweater except for a family member's emergency surgery Thanksgiving weekend. What could have been tragic wasn't and he's home and recovering.

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-20738507362377201362009-08-04T22:46:00.004-04:002009-08-04T23:13:01.299-04:00

It is so amazing how much has happened since I last posted. I've moved from Chattanooga to a place in Murfreesboro, to another place in Murfreesboro, and finally to my new home in Nashville/Antioch.Now the attack-shrubs are gone. They will be replaced and plans are in place for that.Inside - well let's just say it needed a lot of TLC and some major work. The a/c in the attic overflowed -

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-16511961198973977762009-05-04T20:25:00.003-04:002009-05-04T20:34:43.558-04:00

It's May, it's May, the lovely month of May...New month, new location. I'm presently commuting about 38 miles each way to work in Nashville and waiting, waiting, waiting to close on my house.Looks like I get to move next week to a new location and then move to the new house.The house needs work which is why I got such a good price. It has mold. It's on a slab so only some of the wall studs are

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-12515124250182864162009-02-01T21:07:00.002-05:002009-02-01T21:20:20.680-05:00

Well, it ended up a crazy January and now, a crazy February. 61 days to Nashville so I'm starting to pack and discard stuff. Not much knitting, stitching or anything else. Hubby has painted 4 rooms so far so now I need to buy 3 gallons of paint for the upstairs bedrooms, 2-3 gallons if the living room and stairwell need to be re-done and then buy a new light/fan for the living room. Will

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-54136068061698781982009-01-01T00:26:00.002-05:002009-01-01T00:55:07.730-05:00

Happy New Year to one and all. Welcome to 2009. This year promises to be quite interesting with lots of changes acomin'. May the good changes outweigh the bad.My goals are numerous - as always and more realistic for a change. I have come to discover that little changes are easier than the giant ones. Little ones are also easier to achieve.I've made a list for myself of all my knitting works

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-38996169005595125312008-12-07T21:19:00.003-05:002008-12-07T21:47:19.416-05:00

All the insanity that is the holiday season - that I insist on calling Holly Daze (maybe I'll explain the story behind that one later) and the other insanity called family get in the way of regular blogging.Oh, I forgot work too. I've had training, a week of shadowing and reverse shadowing, 2 weeks "pre-live" and another two weeks "live" with a total of 100 phone calls reviewed and graded.

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-29780146865419832692008-09-21T21:04:00.002-04:002008-09-21T21:14:30.576-04:00

During this political time in the USA, emotions run high and, in some cases, logic and understanding go by the wayside. Everyone has a viewpoint and many feel theirs is the only one.My viewpoints are my own but I do appreciate those with a wonderful way of expressing themselves with words. Therefore I'm borrowing from My Tangled Life and an essay by Eve Ensler regarding Gov. Palin of Alaska,

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-49510564210014036222008-08-18T21:36:00.002-04:002008-08-18T22:10:42.876-04:00

In the past few weeks, there have been some events that are disturbing me. At a construction site, two separate incidents of nooses being found have been reported. Also reported is the FBI investigating because of racial overtones.Friday a bomb threat was called in to the company that will be at the construction site when the buildings are completed. Right now, the company is located in 10

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-26678815098974627912008-08-11T19:58:00.003-04:002008-08-11T20:12:09.376-04:00

My first day at work today - new employee orientation. This is the absolute first time I've ever had a formal orientation with a job. This is also about the 12th permanent job I've had in my life - plus a bunch of temp work. Things I liked: friendliness, humor injected into dry subjects, free lunch. Dislike: the -20F temperature in the room - even with over 50 people in there - I think it

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-42356364463276851662008-08-06T01:55:00.004-04:002008-08-06T02:20:05.101-04:00

1 Put the logo on your blog2 Add a link to the person who awarded you3 Nominate at least 7 other blogs4 Add links to those blogs on yours5 Leave a message for your nominees on their blogs.Thank you again to Claire at Blarney 'n GritsNow for 7 other blogs... hmmmmmmmmOk here goes:Knitting and Spinning with Ewe - Peggy always has something wonderful to say about everyone in the kal's we've been a

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-65780675731002181282008-08-04T12:05:00.004-04:002008-08-04T12:22:13.981-04:00

Here come the photos as promised...Here's my new drop spindle with Glacier Lake in process. See the sparkly stuff? That's Angelina, something I've never spun before. Lots of glitter with this one.Next is Winter Jewels, being spun from a 80/20 Merino/Silk roving from All Spun Up on Etsy.com. This stuff is a dream to spin. I've only spun about an ounce so far - out of 8 oz.

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-64322038004977061492008-07-31T23:41:00.002-04:002008-07-31T23:56:29.536-04:00

I see I haven't posted in over a month so I'll do an update on my life. First of all, I'm going to be a grandma again! Baby is not due until February and I'm not a patient person so this is going to be hard on me. As long as there are 10 toes and 10 fingers and everything is in the right place, I'll be very happy.Next, I'm employed! I'm going through all the pre-employment stuff right now but

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-56690573295099434422008-06-27T21:38:00.007-04:002008-06-27T22:07:57.834-04:00

I have been busy with my knitting and stitching - and some visitors, both welcome and not so welcome. There is a split in the frame of my front door and some yellowjackets moved in. Today was the second trip by the exterminator - hopefully the last. I had been out of town so discovered them when I returned. Also waiting for me was this:This is a Luna Moth. The color is flaky as the shutters

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-85483775001918633052008-05-31T21:11:00.005-04:002008-08-04T12:18:11.056-04:00

Oh, let's see what I have photos of... On the left is the latest photo of Queen of Roses by The Silver Lining. It's stitched over 1 (one thread over one thread) on 28 count evenweave.Next is the update on MacGregor's Garden. The first photo is showing the short-row toe which I now love thanks to Susan's hint in the directions. It's neat and it fits like a dream. The color on this first photo

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-56195935215776928982008-05-26T23:17:00.003-04:002008-05-26T23:35:07.476-04:00

This photo is of the marker of a relative who was a casualty of the Civil War at the Battle of Prairie Grove (Arkansas). He is buried at the National Cemetery in Fayetteville, AR. This is one of the original National Cemeteries as designated by President Abraham Lincoln. Today, there is an American Flag in front of his and thousands of other headstones.I often stop and think of those who have

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-1223568786777538552008-05-19T02:54:00.007-04:002008-05-19T03:30:14.493-04:00

is just wrong - well half wrong... Presenting Caledonian Mist.If you click on either photo, a larger version will come up. The top and left versions are correct. If you can't tell, the 'bad' version had me leaving out 1/2 the pattern, and actually the gusset is wrong too. So this week's project will be to unravel the wrong foot back to the gusset and correct my biggie boo-boo.Other knitting -

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-8180296355049474762008-04-09T15:12:00.006-04:002008-04-09T15:43:21.444-04:00

A few weeks ago Abby asked me if I prefer lace or cables. That question has stuck with me a bit. I'm actually doing both with Mystic Light (shown on last entry) which is a lace shawl with a cable top edge and a braid down the middle.I failed to resist temptation and started Magic Carpet Ride from Sunflower Designs. I've absolutely fallen in love with the texture - one side is smooth and the

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-75324574307834370012008-03-29T10:00:00.003-04:002008-03-29T10:13:23.172-04:00

But I didn't promise anything about quality. It's cloudy and raining so outside is not a choice for a photo shoot.First of all - Mystic Light. This is a companion piece to Mystic Water - still in progress. ML started this past week with clue 1. Since it is knit in sock yarn, it goes a bit faster - or seems like it. The colorway is Sugar Maple from Cherry Tree Hill Sockittome.The yarn at left

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-38406858912512019572008-03-26T23:53:00.002-04:002008-03-26T23:55:26.914-04:00

Do NOT visit the following with any beverage near you, your computer, or your mouth. http://fleeglesblog.blogspot.com/2008/03/trenna-tragedy.html#linksI about hurt myself laughing!Enjoy!

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-10599639339225643162008-03-25T20:18:00.002-04:002008-03-25T20:28:28.182-04:00

so no photos - but we're having a lot of fun! The conversations run all over the board -- and I've been laughing so much I can't even knit. None of the topics will be repeated here - what goes on in the group - stays with the group. Just like the Las Vegas ads.I don't think I'm the oldest tonight - but close.I'm still knitting on Mystic Waters. I'll take another photo when this chart is

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-75518996662647458292008-03-18T12:54:00.006-04:002008-03-18T13:29:21.675-04:00

Another chart from Mystic Waters is done. Chart D has hit the trash bin. I'll be setting up on chart E in a little bit. My magnets are not strong enough to hold the shawl in a stretched-out pose, but I'm into the icicle center part.Other knitting - well I'm working on a Caledonian Mist Sock from Pink Lemon Twist. She's actually issuing two patterns, one simple and one complex, at a time. I

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-46251134384001225042008-03-02T16:12:00.010-05:002008-03-02T18:02:28.591-05:00

Somehow I got strep throat. I believe it was a person in front of me at a check out line who coughed and hacked without covering his mouth. This one took me almost two full weeks to get over. So now I'm mean and ornery and ready to do an entry again.I have been spending a lot of time knitting so I'm here on Mystic Waters. You can now see my new chart holder. Chart D has 4 pages. I went to

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-31139468523894970832008-02-06T03:52:00.000-05:002008-02-06T03:55:34.201-05:00

Chart A of Mystic Waters is done. I've found some dental floss and will insert a lifeline and then start B. It feels good to have no mistakes so far... 7 more charts to go...

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-75369876311078530572008-02-05T22:41:00.000-05:002008-02-05T22:57:26.958-05:00

Or I may go nuts. Mystic Waters has whupped my a$$ again... I found a major oops of too many stitches on the left side so I couldn't tink just that area. No lifeline so out it all came and I've started again. I'm almost finished with chart A. I am very determined to get this thing done! I love all the photos I've seen - and one lady who has knitted two so far. Amazing!Right now I've been

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-67027898718036703962008-02-01T15:58:00.000-05:002008-02-01T16:33:28.675-05:00

I've been enhancing my stash - actually in anticipation of at least one Mystery Shawl starting in March. Mystic Light has been described by Anna as the light coming from fire or stars. I bought some yarn from Loopy Ewe, first this: Cool Fire from Dream In Color Smooshy. This seemed to me to be the colors when the fire is dying down including the blue-ish flame colors.Well, I was happy but then

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-72396198211601478162008-01-21T19:27:00.000-05:002008-01-21T19:48:27.817-05:00

One of the blogs I read is by Dani in Canada. She was tagged and tagged Claire at Blarney 'n' Grits. I thought that was funny - and then Claire tagged me................. so here I go:4 Jobs I've HadCashier in a grocery storeMother Nature at a day campAFDC/Food Stamp worker (welfare)Material Planner (manufacturing plant)4 Movies I Watch Over and OverSweet Home AlabamaHunt for Red

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-80156014860732254042008-01-19T18:30:00.001-05:002008-01-19T18:46:12.629-05:00

I've decided to set aside Spring Shawl Surprice and finish Mystic Waters first. I'm making stupid mistakes (because I can't count to 3) and getting frustrated. So I'll finish Mystic Waters then do SSS then we'll see. I have yarns coming for two more stitch alongs... One will be Mystic Light, a companion to Mystic Waters, this one being fire. I had purchased some yarn but then read more of

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-20599635468994581982008-01-08T16:05:00.000-05:002008-01-08T16:10:46.922-05:00

I've finally completed clue 1 of the Spring Shawl Surprice. Today Clue 2 was released so I have more knitting to do today. I know I've made some goofs in the center section but I believe I've found what my problem has been so will just continue. It seems to be a busy enough pattern that the errors won't show.I have one photo of the whole thing and another of the detail. The yarn is Zephyr 2/

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-75747757574481932302008-01-02T18:46:00.000-05:002008-01-02T19:16:47.307-05:00

Welcome to 2008. We actually had some snow last night. Enough to turn cars white - but mostly gone by early morning - at least in the sunny areas. I got a raspberry (aka Bronx Cheer) from DD when I called her. She lives quite north of me - and has no snow. Youngest DGS really, really wants snow but he's been disappointed most of this winter.I think my most favorite gift this holiday season

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-4219493288114220692007-12-29T19:18:00.001-05:002007-12-29T19:34:54.157-05:00

I have a new resident in my condo. Her name - as delivered to me is Angel Eyes. This is a temporary name as to me, Angel Eyes was the bad in Good, Bad and Ugly. This lady is too pretty for that.Her eyes are an awesome green - more emerald than is showing here. This photo is the one which made me very interested in meeting her. It was taken by feralcatfriend and I want her to have the credit

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-66036246311653324462007-12-12T22:12:00.000-05:002007-12-12T22:25:15.489-05:00

So why has it been in the 70's for the past 3 days? Oh well, I can be jolly in spite of the warm weather. I went to the main Library today to get a library card and start browsing and loved the lights in the city as I was going home. Knitting has been interesting. I've started the fuscia blossoms for the Market Tote. They are hard on my hands so I still have 2 inside petals on the first one.

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-46895150363893387742007-12-03T21:13:00.000-05:002007-12-03T21:17:33.338-05:00

Well, I had my Mystic Waters in a bag while I was going out of town. I had stopped in the middle of a row - first mistake. Then I started to take the knitting out of the bag - without looking -- second mistake. Tugging was the final mistake. All sorts of stitches fell off needles and unzipped themselves. After saying oops and other words not to be mentioned here, I ended up finishing the

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-55032353146928894782007-11-30T18:09:00.000-05:002007-11-30T18:40:25.285-05:00

...fall off the face of the earth, tho' I may have teetered on the edge a bit. : )A quick summary of knitting follows:1. Frogged Secret of the Stole as I wasn't enjoying the knit very much. This isn't really my style of knitting. I can and do admire the work others have done on the Stole.2. Started Mystic Waters. I'm still slogging through Clue 2 (Clue 5 was released this week) but things

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-57650122794057895862007-10-19T16:45:00.000-04:002007-10-19T16:59:07.987-04:00

Well it's time for me to post another photo of Secret of the Stole. I'm part way through hint two but hint 3 came out today.This is a more accurate photo showing the pewter color. It's softer in feel than the photo indicates - that silk really makes this wonderful. I'm not putting beads on this although it was designed to add beads. I wanted to see what it was like first - maybe I can add

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-73031065055659478432007-10-06T22:20:00.000-04:002007-10-06T23:12:22.374-04:00

I was told today that I'm tagged. There are rules that go with this so I'm going to cut and paste from FugueStateKnits to get the rules right:Here are the rules: Once tagged, you must link to the person who tagged you. Then post the rules before your list, and list 8 random things about yourself. At the end of the post, you must tag and link to 8 other people, visit their sites, and leave a

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-59486557158125886802007-09-24T23:24:00.001-04:002007-09-24T23:30:47.107-04:00

Here's the first progress shot of Mediterranean Lace from A Gathering of Lace. DD will have to choose between this and Secret of the Stole as it progresses. This one is in Jaggerspun Zephyr, a blend of 80% merino and 20% lace. Secret of the Stole starts around October 5th and there seem to be hundreds in the group for this mystery stole. I know they are all over the world and there seems to be

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-85806956062162965542007-09-21T18:45:00.000-04:002007-09-21T19:01:26.549-04:00

Well I didn't get the job. I'll be calling next week to see if they will tell me why as they are still running ads in the paper.So while I'm sitting here eating dirt (hard to do when you're on the 2nd floor), I'll console myself with knitting. I finally found stitch holders so can finish DIL's tote bag.I've also started Mediterranean Lace from A Gathering of Lace. I'm doing it in Jaggerspun

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-49158917762943093322007-09-13T17:37:00.000-04:002007-09-13T17:57:50.541-04:00

Finally I've had a job interview - well actually three today - one after the other. There were three individuals at the same company who interviewed me. Now I get to wait 7-10 days to hear something. Did I ever mention I hate to wait for ... well almost anything. I have patience with people - not with events.I remember seeing a tee shirt years ago with one of the Peanuts gang saying Give Me

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-26693358182742372052007-08-29T20:01:00.000-04:002007-08-29T20:19:12.507-04:00

I've been enjoying myself on Ravelry - it is addictive for sure. Seeing all the projects and all the completed projects and all the prospective projects is a bit daunting and exciting at the same time. There are some very interesting groups there as well and I've joined several. I'm still unpacking -- very slowly as I run out of room to put some things and try to rearrange to make more room.

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-30424068748119852082007-08-14T13:34:00.000-04:002007-08-14T13:45:00.182-04:00

I received my invite to Ravelry last night so I've been spending time getting some beginning stuff entered. I was on the waiting list just over a month. I love the potential that I see on this site - and I think it will be an additional help in prodding me to finish some projects and become a bit more discriminating in my choices for future projects. It would be wonderful if someone would set

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-44754881665386065962007-08-05T18:34:00.000-04:002007-08-05T18:41:05.815-04:00

Two years and 3 weeks after DD, DS arrived. So here is wishing him a happy b-day!I'll add more knitting photos and maybe some stitching ones in a few days. I've got to get some way figured out so that the colors are more 'real'.So happy birthday again son, and may you have many more.

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-6670963748687520462007-07-27T12:38:00.000-04:002007-07-27T12:55:10.789-04:00

There has been too much white in my life recently. White knitting, stitching on white, white wrapping paper used by the movers - just way too much.I decided to change colors - at least the ones I can control so I bought some beautiful Jagger Spun Zephyr, 50% merino, 50% Tussah silk and started knitting...The background is the July/August issue of Piecework. The pattern is Russian Lace

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-64612982418601272212007-07-20T19:19:00.000-04:002007-07-20T19:48:20.971-04:00

I'm here and still unpacking - but my DS and his family bought a new home. So I have custody of their two children. Yesterday was spent here - the oldest can play video games endlessly. Younger one too but not continuously - wants encouragement in what is going on. Today I had the brilliant idea to wear them down a bit so we wouldn't be up until midnight tonight. Good idea but bad reality.

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-48707435702201863952007-07-14T23:48:00.000-04:002007-07-15T00:17:24.853-04:00

My daughter's birthday is today - so I'm wishing her a happy one. I tried to call last night but had to leave a message. When I called today all her in-laws were there getting her cake ready so I'll try again tomorrow.Meanwhile I am in the condo now and dealing with unpacking and sorting and unpacking and waiting for a repair to be made. My inspector had found that water was running under

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-43423329792654324232007-06-28T20:54:00.000-04:002007-06-28T21:06:44.343-04:00

Well the packers showed up today - and the realtor had to let them in to pack. I think everything is now packed and will be picked up in the morning. Then it will be here sometime between the 3rd and 12th. It's about a 10-hour drive in a car - so double for a truck - 3 days is perfectly reasonable - why give them up to 9 days???My daughter and her family will be here Saturday night. My SO(DH

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-37779308559525041442007-06-23T09:43:00.000-04:002007-06-23T10:07:42.985-04:00

Well, it's started - the countdown to closing on the condo. I've set up for the electric to be in my name and purchased a frig and dishwasher - the dishwasher there does have some problems. My address has been changed with the postal service. The movers are coordinated with someone to be at the old address - and insurance is in place.Now both my kids and their families will be down here for

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-79186746878121590172007-06-17T19:36:00.000-04:002007-06-28T21:48:54.527-04:00

Well, I'm here and learning my way about - slowly but surely. I am buying a place to live and dreaming up decorating schemes for the spaces I will have. I'm still looking for a job but new opportunities happen almost daily. I'm not yet at the point of flipping burgers yet - but just because the job won't pay what I need to live. However, if push comes to shove, flip them I will. Meanwhile a

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-64754540157081455732007-05-24T11:35:00.000-04:002007-05-24T11:47:23.669-04:00

I arrived almost a week ago and am starting to learn my way around. It actually seems to be a fairly easy town to move around in. I may have to eat those words, but so far, so good.I've been house hunting and found a place to put an offer on. Hopefully that offer will be accepted and I can have a place to live that is mine (well, mine and the bank). Excited is a good description. The area

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-64944356008392649842007-05-10T19:41:00.000-04:002007-05-10T19:48:11.668-04:00

I'll be changing directions again for a bit. Next week I'm heading to Chattanooga TN to explore job and housing possibilities. I'm excited and scared and nervous as this represents a big change for me. There will probably be photo ops.The most important part for me will be visiting the younger child, the spouse-in-law, and my older two grandchildren. I should be there just as school gets

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-34575076523696796012007-04-23T10:30:00.000-04:002007-04-23T10:49:36.858-04:00

This has been a very rough week for many. The Virginia Tech story has captured the attention of many of us and our thoughts and prayers are with those families, biological and other, that are dealing with the loss of friends and family members.My nephew's best friend was a student at Va Tech but transferred to another school. He knew some of the victims and is having his own problems dealing

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-39303408555274874582007-04-02T14:56:00.000-04:002007-04-02T15:18:53.500-04:00

So I didn't wash the Navajo-plied Blue Suede Shoes. It's only about 50 yds or so - but I've split the rest for a standard two-ply. I have two other colorways, Ain't No Mountain and another I can't think of at this moment so I may do one of them first. There is also some merino/silk blend in an Opal colorway that I may play with. All these are from Crown Mountain Farms. In addition, I have

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-86909293957349680022007-04-01T18:00:00.000-04:002007-04-01T18:05:13.313-04:00

I've finished the Navajo ply of the first bit of Blue Suede Shoes. I'll leave it on the bobbin for a day or so then wash it and let it dry. Then I can post a photo for all to see.The weather continues to be beautiful but the oaks have started shedding their pollen - along with a choke cherry in the backyard. Unfortunately that pollen makes me itchy and sneezy. I can't enjoy the outside as

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-75267091760424816492007-03-30T12:17:00.000-04:002007-03-30T13:06:54.640-04:00

It is so beautiful out - and the air smells so good. The lilacs are starting to bloom. And I had a visitor this morning. Just here for a rest, but good to see anyway.The flowers are periwinkle or myrtle - depending on your location. They are blooming on the variegated leafed version and the older dark green leaf version. I think the blooms on the first are larger. I think the swallowtail

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-78375124391151220302007-03-11T22:29:00.001-04:002007-04-02T15:20:42.641-04:00

I am trying again to become a more frequent blogger. I just keep forgetting.Little progress on the knitting front. I've received the needles ordered from Halcyon Yarn, but haven't moved my fair isle to the new needles.BUT I did start the Unst Bridal Shawl pattern from England. I've almost completed the 2nd repeat of the center panel (out of 10 or 11). Lace knitted in cobweb does not look like

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-26355452796930748002007-02-13T22:48:00.000-05:002007-02-13T22:55:02.719-05:00

Wow, it's been a long time between my posts - that's horrible. So tomorrow, I'll try to take at least 3 photos - one of the fair isle, one of Dragon's eye (my design) and my spinning. Those are the items I'm working on now.Along with that, I'm trying to move, unpack and help get my house ready to sell - hopefully quickly. Then I have to start job hunting - but I've really enjoyed this break.

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-52772951995571185442006-12-22T20:34:00.000-05:002006-12-22T20:39:09.943-05:00

Wishes to you and yours for the peace and joy of this holiday season. My weekend is going to be a bit crazy. My final day at work was today so now I'm gainfully unemployed. Tomorrow DH and I will be baking and cleaning because friends will be over Sunday for a holiday dinner. So I have 3-4 cookies, 1 bread, 1 rolls, a trifle and dinner to get ready.Knitting and spinning resume on Monday.

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-47838313203872448642006-12-14T18:52:00.000-05:002006-12-14T19:01:07.666-05:00

Well, I have my first photos done of work in progress.So TW The Holly and the Ivy:And the socks:And my Fair Isle sweater from Meg Swanson's Sweater's from Camp:I'll try to pin out the sweater for a better photo for the next one. The colors are a bit pale - the background color is almost a navy blue.

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-32256069478711856542006-12-12T14:48:00.000-05:002006-12-12T15:01:11.321-05:00

I've decided to use this blog to encourage (force) me to complete some UFO's that I have filling a room in my house. So there will be some knitting and cross stitch and hardanger. Spinning will be just the fibers I have followed by either projects with those yarns or sale of the yarns.The first thing I have to do is start photographing where I am with each project and listing them here. I

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-1164166838444951832006-11-21T22:34:00.000-05:002006-11-21T22:40:38.453-05:00

While I travel to spoil grandkiddles and cook and enjoy family and extended family, I want to wish you and yours a very happy Thanksgiving.When I come back, I should be able to show you where I am on the Fair Isle sweater and the spinning.I had read somewhere about using beading elastic as a drive band. I tried it as a double drive band and wasn't very happy with it. Then I tried two separate

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-1161820337563746992006-10-25T19:50:00.000-04:002006-11-16T00:28:29.980-05:00

Today I was planning to show you how much I had completed on my sweater. Yesterday I discovered I had twisted the stitches when I joined it so zzzzzzzzzziiiipppppppppp and start over again. Three rows are not enough to show much of anything so we'll try for a bit later.Off to knit more.....

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-1161295490479027312006-10-19T17:46:00.000-04:002006-10-19T18:04:50.490-04:00

Oh I'm happy now with what was on my doorstep when I came home from work.This was inside the box:This is the yarn for Fair Isle Pullover with Vertical Stripes from the book "Sweaters from Camp". Both the yarn and the book are from Meg Swanson's Schoolhouse Press. So guess what I'm doing tonight...I'm not a fast knitter, but I do enjoy the challenges. My first sweater, knit when I was about 15,

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36216601.post-1161139486405761332006-10-17T22:37:00.000-04:002006-10-17T22:59:41.750-04:00

This is the first posting of my blogging attempt. I've been encouraged by others who think I have a lot to say. You will be the judges of that. Topics will be mostly my crafts but other stuff will be mentioned from time to time.I currently live in the Ozark Mountains in Arkansas. I'm interested in knitting, spinning and counted cross stitch but also quilt, crochet and embroider as projects

Gail Roachhttps://profiles.google.com/104607515687985265180noreply@blogger.com0