Knittin' Notes

Procrastination

2012-01-26T08:36:00.000-08:00

Yes folks, you heard me... It's only been 2 years since my last post, what have I been doing to fill my time? I ran 2 half marathons, read over 60 books and discovered crochet!
I made a promise to myself that I would start posting again at least once a month in 2012. The month is almost over! Wow, life does get in the way.

On to crafting!
Like I said, I've discovered crochet. Last year my niece and her hubby were expecting and while knitting is a passion for me, it takes a toll on my hands. Crocheting is more forgiving, and lets face it, its a quick fix. Crochet uses a ton more yarn than knitting does, but takes half the time to get a finished product. This is one of two granny square blankets I have made this month.... The model is my new Great Niece, Hayden, who safely arrived the week of Thanksgiving.

This is a photograph of the progress on my African Flower blanket. I started this project back last May and hopefully I can have the entire thing done before the year is out. Only 80 more dang flowers to go! The attach them. Yikes!

I've done several other projects. I'm not proud of the photography. The are the two large crochet blankets I have finished. Took the photos with my smartphone.

I found some inspiring blogs along the way:
Attic 24
Skinnytaste.com

My sisters blog, rinehartworld.com, is fun to read. She lives half way around the world and writes about their vacations to wonderful places and also living abroad.

The boys are growing like weeds! Can you believe Hillard will start Jr. High next year? Both the boys wear the same shoe size as me, and I give my 7 year old 2 more years before he towers over me!

Okay, I posted in the month of Jan. yeah me!

2010-07-27T11:28:00.000-07:00

I just dropped off an order. Yarntopia in Katy, TX.

The pinkis/orange-ish color was not in their order, I apologize for that mistake.

Contact them for more information about yarn weights and purchasing!

2010-07-20T17:51:00.000-07:00

I have the opportunity this Sunday and Tuesday to be apart of an art/craft show at the Pink Magnolia in downtown Katy.

There is going to be a lot to see, touch and purchase! Jewelry, pottery, home decor, and of course hand dyed yarn!

Monday evening I am attending a Knitting Guild meeting at the Spring Creek Bar B Que restaurant (I-10@ Westgreen). I will have yarn with me!!!!

Color Co Op!
Here is the new inspired colorway for the Color Co Op

What IS the Color Co Op, and how can I join??? Did you ask that? Go here and check it out. I love dyeing from the inspired photographs that our members send in. I am also a member... There are so many fabulous dyers! Miss Babs, Dragonfly, Unique Sheep.

Tonight I will be busy dyeing for a local retailer, Yarntopia. They plan to stock some of the best yarns that I offer! I am so excited to share it with you guys. Until next time.

New Yarn Lines

2010-06-28T14:15:00.000-07:00

After my long break from dyeing I decided to jump back in and stream-line/simplify the yarns I offer. I am really pleased with the results. Here is a sneak peek:

Mama Llama Yarn Lines

I will be updating the Etsy store sometime next week, some sale yarns as well!

Stash Sale! Start of Something Good!

2010-06-08T04:58:00.000-07:00

Summer is here and both the kids are signed up for 2 weeks of camp! Hillard had attended Camp Journey a camp geared toward special needs children.
It is Brandon's first time at camp this summer and I thought he might be more comfortable at the YMCA.

World Wide Knit in Public day is almost upon us and I was invited to participate in two gatherings. I am donating door prizes for both events. The Katy gathering will be at Randall's on S. Mason Rd from 1-4pm. I will have Mama Llama yarn there so come join us!

I am just beginning to go through and re organize my stash. I haven't even really gotten to the good stuff yet. Click the picture for more info about the yarn. Let me know if you're interested in buying any of the yarn below, catherinekerth@hotmail.com :) shipping is a flat $4

$8

$8/ THE COTTON 100gm SKEINS are SOLD.

$20/ comes with patterns form a Woolgirl Kit

$8/ this is DK weight =fast knit! SOLD

$12

$10

$12

$16

$8

$18/ there are 8 balls in pack

Okay that is just for starters!
I'm not sure if I should put the rest on Ebay or sell it here on my blog for a fixed price... Does anyone read my blog anymore? I've been really lazy about keeping up with it!
I will sell some Mama Llama stash soon as well.

2010-05-11T04:40:00.000-07:00

Wow! It has been a very long time since my last post.

In March I started a KAL for the Color Co Op group on Ravelry and had a hysterectomy on the 29th and took a 6 week mandatory break from dyeing. Yesterday my 6 weeks ended and I'm looking forward to getting my hands dirty again :)
I've been reading so many books in the past 3 months that I have only knitted a few items.

My book list includes:
Percy Jackson and the Olympians seies
Hunger Games Series
Boneshaker
forest of Hearts
Handmaids Tale
Book Thief
If I stay
Forest of Hands and Teeth
The Maze Runner
The world We Knew, The Dead and Gone, This World we Live In (survival series)
Three Cups of Tea

I know most of them are Young Adult Sci-fi but I liked them. Very easy and entertaining reads, great story telling.

I allowed myself only 1 club this year and I joined the Color Co-Op. There are some very talented dyers and I look forward to my first shipment! I'll share with you guys when it arrives!

Twilight Inspired Yarn

2009-11-03T11:12:00.001-08:00

It is the first Saturday of the month this weekend and that means booth time! I am going all out this Saturday with Team Edward/Jacob basket door prizes, Movie Inspired Quick Knit kits, Inspired colorways, and I will even have Inspired Soap as well. This is a small peek of whats to come:

Movie Inspired Quick Knit Kits (designer Nancy Fry, yarn Mama Llama "Special Addition Aran Weight")
La Push Hat, Bella's Mittens, Rosalies' Scarf and Hat, Alice's New Moon Wrist Warmers

Movie Inspired Coloryways http://flickr.com/catherinekerth

The Booth is open from 10am until 2pm and I will have crafts and cookies for the kiddos at 1pm. It will take place at Katy Heritage Park on George Bush Dr.

See ya'll there!

I will be selling Inspired kits and yarn via internet sales after Saturday Nov. 7th

Big Fun

2009-10-04T08:13:00.001-07:00

The First Saturday of September and October Mama Llama has been apart of something exciting! First Saturday in Katy, TX. It is located in Heritage Park and we like to call it "Art on the Porch" as well. Here are some photographs from September.

I love meeting everyone and I hope to encourage more people to stay and hang out, and knit now that the weather is getting cooler. Please bring your lawn chair and visit!
Artreach is the mastermind behind the monthly festivities and they want to encourage to bring your kiddos between the times of 1-2pm for free crafts and fun!

In November I will be giving a demonstration with a plastic loom and hand weaving as well. Providing the weather holds I will have cookies and juice for the childern that participate. And they get to walk away with a project and pride :)

November 7th booth will also be Twilight Saga inspired with brand new rich colorways, Twilight and New Moon movie "Knit Kits", Door Prizes, movie posters and lots of other fun stuff! Be there!!!!!

Cassinin/Hubble Inspired Yarn Club
Introducing the 2010 Mama Llama Yarn Club! I am very excited to bring our families favorite Tuesday night program to fiber! Our family enjoys watching The Universe on the History Channel Tuesday nights, it is apart of their Space Tuesdays line up. This yarn club is going to be beautiful with exclusive Yarns, patterns, stitch markers, and soaps all inspired by a photograph by either Cassini or Hubble. The postcard of the photograph that was used for inspiration will be included in the package.
Sign ups begin later this month Please email me at mamallamaknits@hotmail.com to be put on the "interested in more information list".

Twitter:
Mama Llama is now on Twitter. To follow us look up MamaLlamaKnits. Peridocally while I am dyeing batches I will throw in an extra skein and give it away free to a lucky follower, you just have to pay attention for your chance to win :)

thanks ya'll
Catherine

ya'll take care!

Alice's Mitts

2009-08-24T18:20:00.000-07:00

muhahahaha! They look pretty darn similar , right? (see previous post)

Specs: Mama Llama Bounty Ewe (doubled)
Sz 9 needles (magic Loop)
Colorway Bom Dia

Kit available $16 includes shipping

Kit includes: 2oz Mama Llama Bounty Ewe in colorway Bom Dia
Divided up in balls ready to knit!
Pattern

Thank You Alice

2009-08-21T10:45:00.000-07:00

Well, the costume designer that dressed you, anyway..... Not only are they keeping us knitters busy with cool knits from the first movie Bella's Mittens,Baseball scarf La Push Hat, and Carlisie's awesome zipper sweater and baseball scarf; In the new movie due out 11/20/09 Alice is sporting some AWESOME fingerless Mitts that are sure to capture everyone's eyes!

The thing that pleased me most is that it is extremely similar to the Bom Dia colorway! Woo Hoo!

Next post will definitely have a picture of a pair of these in it, with a matching slouch hat too boot. I'll write down my patterns and post them for free.....
Hmmmmm.... maybe put a few kits together? Probably jumping the gun on that one.

My Bella's Mittens "test pair"

I survived Sock Summit '09

2009-08-11T11:05:00.000-07:00

Portland, OR
WOW! What an amazing experience! I had the chance to meet so many wonderful people, I have to say that was my favorite part. Our booth neighbors were amazing people and they helped us until the very end. Ever morning I would wake before the alarm excited to see what each day would bring...... I never tired of smiling :)
That being said; Saturday sure through me for a loop! Thursday night and Friday went so well that Saturday seemed very slow, it kind of disappointed me. Wasn't Saturday suppose to the big day? Sunday made up for it big time! I don't think the booth was ever empty, always teaming with people coming to talk and feeling the yarn and stitch markers.
Of course if you know me I always seem to leave my camera at home....This time I brought it with!!!! But I forgot my memory card at home..... I know, I know!!!! Jenn (AKA KnitWit Momma was helping with my booth and she had the foresight to remember just about everything I forgot. Next post there will be pictures, PROMISE ;)

Etsy store Updates and new Newsletter
My boxes of yarn are with the UPS man right now and I expect them early next week. When they arrive I will be filling my Etsy store. I also managed to retain over 200 emails for the new formatted Mama Llama Newsletter. What was that, you're not signed up? Here is a link to the website and its on the left-hand margin. I apprecite it ;)

A small taste of whats to come

2009-07-28T17:40:00.000-07:00

1. Travertine, 2. Venice, 3. Bella, 4. Jude, 5. Day, 6. Zelda, 7. Linen Toes, 8. Bird of Paradise, 9. Lily Pad, 10. Colorsong, 11. Earth, 12. Penny Ln, 13. Decadence, 14. Jellyfish, 15. Berkley, 16. Mario, 17. Fall Leaves, 18. Hero, 19. See Spot Run, 20. Sprucey Lucy / Mama Llama Sea Ewe- Jude

2 new beautiful sock patterns deigned by Lisa Dykstra
12 new colorways
5 new yarn lines

It has been an exciting 6 weeks and it all shipped to Portland, OR this morning. Take good care of my parcels FedEx!

The Difference in Fibers!

2009-06-23T06:53:00.000-07:00

Mama Llama Sea Ewe,
Jude, Dip 1

I came up with a really neat colorway by over dyeing a skein 3 times.... I named it Jude. Yes, after the Beatles song in case you are wondering ;)
I had started out with the new Sea Ewe yarn that contains 70/30 Merino and Seacell.

Keeping the exact same formula I ventured into different yarn lines:

When dyeing a new colorway in a skein made of different fibers you are bound to rediscover its beauty!

Mama Llama Original 3ply,
Jude, Dip's 1&2
(dip 1 is always darker and more vibrant)
Honestly this picture doesn't do Dip 1 justice. It is truly a work of art. And this photo captured Dip 2 as is.

Ready yourselves for lots of Fiber Photos as I prepare for Sock Summit!

Checking in

2009-06-09T20:45:00.000-07:00

Hmmm, how do I put this? Its been crazy! The end of school, family grads,and a ginormous trade show to prepare for. Yup its been busy around here.

I was touched and proud to be a recent guest dyer for Woolgirl's Embrace the Lace May club package. Sivia Harding is such a talented designer and I don't think many people could make this Mama Llama Lace Cashmere 2ply look any better! Its is simply breathtaking!

The theme is "Charity" and Chris and I were asked to write a little something for the newsletter that goes out with every package. We were very honored to share our life with a special needs child. Donations are being made to Autism Speaks. Knitters are AMAZINGLY GENEROUS!

I feel pretty pressed lately and I hope I can get everything done in time without disappointing anyone including myself. I've been short with the kids and nights seem sleepless with anticipation. I have samples half way done and I fear they will remain that way and never make it to Sock Summit!

I hope to post FO's soon:
Original 3ply swingy sweater -60% done
Socks from the toe up KAL- June socks 30% done
Socks from the toe up -Van Dykes 1% done :(

What Heel?

2009-05-23T00:51:00.000-07:00

For some reason I lost my avid sock knitters mojo last fall. Not sure why, it left late in the night and I began tank tops and sweaters that have yet to be finished.... they stare at me every time I pass my nightstand and end tables.... Ugly reminders of how I can't seem to finish anything knit related!

I was digging' on Rav. and happened upon the "Lifestyle Sock" hmmmm, Toe Up? Let me give that a whirl again..... I began with my Judy Becker magic cast on and fell in love! The foot went by in a virtual flash and it was time for the heel... Heel? I hate short row heels! What to do? I tired a "short row hell".... Nasty! I tried my first backwards gusset heel (i favor gussets)... All I can say is that I loved the method so much it left me hungry for more! It's almost a sickness now to finish this sock! It has gone from 16 toe stitches to nearly done in 48 hours... Avid has returned!

In my quest for more patterns to exploit my new found love of toe ups and backward gussets I found this:

And there is a 2 yesr KAL to go with it on Ravelry. Of course book is purchased and KAL has been joined. Mama Llama is even donating a few prizes ;)

I am Wooly now!
A Wolly Woolgirl that is.... I was very happy to get my complimentary package this week.

Koigu!
I'm Koigu crazy lately! I received 6 skein of each of the colors.....

New Mama Llama Pattern Toula

Specs: Test Knitted by Brynne
Yarn: Mama Llama Silky Ewe 1.5 balls
Needles: Sz 7
Bust Size 36 inch, more sizes available

Cute kid photos, just because!

There's Knitting a'Foot

2009-05-05T17:22:00.000-07:00

Can it be?
I have to say I am pretty impressed with the Mama Llama Original Sock 3ply if I do say so myself... I Love the stuff for socks but this garment is turning out so beautifully, I couldn't have asked for anything better!

Specs
Yarn: Mama Llama Orig. 3ply, colorway Winter
Needles: sz 7/ 4.5mm
Pattern: Garter Stitch Swingy Sweater

Carmens Birthday sweater cam to a screeching halt when dyeing took over my life for the past few months. I wouldn't call right now a calm, but I have found time to knit while I help Brandon with Jumpstart and Starfall games on the computer.

Speaking of Brandon we went to wait for Hillards bus today and took these pics together.

I made a commitment to myself to get healthy 18 months ago and I've almost lost it all, except for those pesky last 13 lbs!!!! I eat these items in moderation, but I love them anyway... I decided not to admit my Peets coffee addiction, so its not pictured. Whoops!

I plateaued for over 4 months... But this morning hopefully marked a downtrend. Cross fingers!

Have a great Week!

Joyful, Yarn, Goodness

2009-04-25T00:18:00.000-07:00

These three words can best describe my week. What would your 3 words be?

Its been an exciting week with a lot of dyeing going on! I received the shipment of Sea Ewe yarn and I got to fill a delayed order, I put a few more things on Etsy and I can't seem to keep the Bounty Ewe in stock! It has given me many reasons to dye this weekend. There is much joy with the thought of spending a day creating new things.

The yarn Fairy, Jen a.k.a Woolgirl, has sent out another spectacular Sock Club package. How does she keep out doing herself? I have never worked with Curious Creek yarn, but I am really looking forward to it. This yarn is SOOOOOO yummy! It differes from the Zen Yarn Garden we recieved two months ago, but is still in that yummy catagorey that we all drool over!

Members are given an "alternative" pattern if you not in the sock mood! Both patterns are truly works of art and they are high on my list!!!!

The Goodness that has come from this week is how things seem to come together. I was generously invited to be a vendor at the World Wide Knit in Public Day event here in Houston June 20th. The t-shirts have finally come in and they look spectacular. I'm having a fabulous time dyeing for retailers and for my sanity as well. I finally got to design a cami/tank pattern and have a test knitter working on it now, and have several test knitters working for booth samples. Brandon will be spend a great deal of time with his grandmother this weekend.....Goodness

All the pretty things

2009-04-16T06:27:00.001-07:00

Received a shipment of naked yarn and got to work..... Man, i love these new yarn bases! I felt so pampered while dyeing them..... I focused on solid colorways last night.

And yuppers its for sale.

Silky Ewe -70/30 Merino and Silk...Sock weight...almost exact to Sea Ewe, but was not in this shipment :( Expect next week!

Bounty Ewe -80/10/10 SW Merino, Cashmere and Nylon... Sock weight......very lofty yarn

I had a lot of fun dyeing last night and I look forward to dyeing up about 20 other skeins tonight with some other orders..... I've been having fun creating whatever I want.

Those of you who ordered T-shirts, they are on the way!

I See Ewe'r new T-shirt!

2009-04-10T06:40:00.000-07:00

To celebrate Sock Summit AND the the new sock yarn lines Mama Llama has added a few mascots for the occasions.

They will be permanent fixtures of the yarn lines and these t-shirts will be sold from now until Aug.

For anyone who purchases a T-shirt, their name will be put in a hat for a drawing at the end of Sock Summit for some fabulous prizes of yarn, stitch markers, patterns and other cool stuff.

If you will be attending the Sock Summit you can wear your t-shirt and if I see you in your shirt you will receive 10% off your purchase at the Mama Llama Booth.

Can you tell I'm excited?

Cost: $24 (shirt is $22 , shipping for U.S. $2)
The first 8 T-shirts sold come with a glow-in-the-dark sheep stitch marker!

Sizes available:
Small - 36 inches
Medium - 40 inches
Large - 44 inches (I have a 38 bust and wear comfortably, but not too big)
XLarge - 48 inches
2Xlarge - 52 inches
Don't use paypal? Please send me an email to MamaLlamaKnits@hotmail.com an you can pay with Check or Credit Card. Thank you ;)

Blister in the Sun

2009-04-06T09:50:00.000-07:00

Because I'm not the sharpest knife in the drawer!

New yarn lines: I announced in Ravelry on a couple of boards already, I am really excited to introduce 5 new yarn lines! ( some lines have been dropped to make room)... I think the First two will be the most popular.

Mama Llama Bounty Ewe
80/10/10- SW Merino, Cashmere, Nylon (plump plied yarn)
192 yds/skein (sz 2 or 3 needles)

Mama Llama Sea Ewe
70/30 SW Merino and Seacell (a 2 ply yarn)
192yds/ skein (sz 2 needles)

Mama Llama Super Ewe
75/25 SW Merino and nylon blend
210 yds/skein (sz 1 needles)
comes with matching stitch marker hanging from yarn band

Mama Llama Bamboo DK
60/40 Merino and Bamboo
140 yds/skein (sz 5 needles)

Mama Llama Curly Ewe
Baby Alpaca/Merino/Bamboo
109 yds (Sz 10 needles) This is a Boucle

Please let me know what you think of the changes!Mama Llama website has been updated with this information.

Lines that have been removed:
Mama Llama Sock II
Mama Llama Tencel
Mama Llama Caspains and Monterey lines
Mama Llama Tussah Silks

Autism in the News:
One young man with Autism has found the means to be creative and support himself!
I'm just upset that I can't buy any around here, I LOVE me some Kettle Corn!!!!

Look at My Woolgirl Loot! I Think club shipments like these deserve a bit of hero worshiping ;)

No Fooling!

2009-04-01T17:42:00.000-07:00

Every year Chris gets me... Sometimes it is really subtle and sometimes it is methodically planned.
I purchased a router so I could get wireless for my laptop, all my Mama Llama stuff is on there.... I have been on the phone with Linksys for 5 days now and they suggested that I finally give up and exchange it. Well I set up our Belkin in less that 10 mins. with no trouble at all..... I was playing Wii with Brandon and Chris says "Oh NO! the Internet isn't working again" I was sooooooo upset. "He said April Fool!" Grrrrrrr

It's Autism Awareness month! I plan on posting information all month long.

To the Summit?

2009-03-23T20:11:00.000-07:00

Mama Llama got accepted as a vendor for the 2009 Sock Summit! Now that the excitement has worn off a little reality has set in. Can Mama Llama really afford the stock/travel/set up/food for this trip in Aug.? I keep running the numbers I sure think it is worth a try.

I have more good news to throw your way.... Carmen is moving back from Brasil in July! Since Brandon will be beginning kindergarten after this summer I plan on making Mama Llama more of a full time job, Carmen is anxious to get her hands dirty in the marketing portion of the business. It is no secret that I am my own worse enemy when it comes to salesmanship, so it will be nice to have someone else besides Chris to shove me once in awhile!

I have posted some yummy yarn and stitch markers on Etsy if you want to check them out.

No knitting news to report. I have been busy with work and I am pretty sure I will be swamped for another month or two.

Color Co-op colorway for March

New Mama Llama Colorway, Granola Girl

Hope you check in once in awhile.... I'll be here posting new colorways and stitch marker creations..... :)

Flu? We don't need no stinkin' Flu!

2009-03-15T07:11:00.000-07:00

The Presentation was fabulous and I will be posting the pictures on flickr this week. I got bogged down with a little stomach flu later in the week, so needles to say not a lot got done. It is kind of strange that no one else in the family came down with it (knock on wood), maybe it was something I ate?

I was really excited to get My first Woolgirl Sock Club package a few weeks ago. This first installment of the club featured some wonderful things.... And that stitch marker! WOW was it perfect or what? cough,cough... yes okay it was a Mama Llama stitch marker ;) If this is just a taste of what Woolgirl has in store for us this year, what a wonderful year it will be... Oh and I can't wait for the firsr "Embrace the Lace" Club package to arrive this month..... DROOL!

I am 15 inches into Carmen's sweater and I have a brilliant idea! Its time to start two sleeves to add to the yoke and I'm thinking I might make the top portion "Tempting". You know that pattern, doesn't everyone? She absolutely has the stomach, neckline and boobies to get away with the look, so I think I'll take the chance and go for it. Of course I'll have to make major modifications.

I'll have progress pictures later this week. I'm a little bogged down with work and spring break kiddy entertainment responsiblities but I am sure I'll be motivated enough to knit ;)

have a great week y'all!

Is it March 10th Already!

2009-03-10T11:18:00.000-07:00

Here are a few pics of what i've been doing for the past week! Just a sneek peek!

Small sample of Lace (Tussah Silk , Silk/Merino)

Oh so soft Pure Bamboo! A box full!

A small taste of the Sock Yarn. More colors not shown.

Stitch Markers too! Only 10 sets available!

I rarely accept special orders (only through retailers).... I will accepting special orders tonight only...
Can't wait to see you there!

Save The Date

2009-02-24T10:04:00.000-08:00

I will be speaking to The knit at Night Guild (KANG) of Houston Tuesday night March 10, 2009. I am really excited to meet new people and see some old friends there too. ( *cough, cough, clear throat*, this means YOU)

Knit At Night Guild (KANG)
2nd Tuesday of each month
6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Emerson Unitarian Church
1900 Bering Drive
Houston, TX.
MAP LINK
March 10, 2009
Catherine Kerth a.k.a.Mama Llama
Door Prizes

This weekend I spent hours upon hours being as thorough as possible compiling all there is to know about dyeing! I will only hit on some of my favorites, practices, and some fun stuff too without revealing too many Mama Llama secrets. Want to know more?.... live in the Houston and surrounding areas? Then come and find out ;) If this doesn't get ya in the door maybe a few awesome door prizes will!

I will also be bringing Mama Llama yarn for sale as well. This is where I need everyone's input.... What is your favorite colorway? Your favorite yarn line? I can't possibly dye every colorway in every yarn line, but I hope to bring more "hits" than "misses". So Please tell me your favorites! To be honest I'm not sure how much to bring? I will be accepting Cash, Check and Credit Cards. muhahahahahaha, I love to enable ;)

For the skeins that I do not sell I will be posting them to Etsy the day after for those of you who can't make it.

As Promised ;)

2009-02-16T14:41:00.000-08:00

Cast on Saturday morning for Carmen's Birthday sweater. Louisa Harding Fauve. I have 9 balls I think with a 3.5 gauge I can make them stretch ;)

Trickle Socks, Bluemoon Fiber Arts, Cotton Candy 2 skeins ea. 200 yds. Birthday Socks for Jenn. (aka KnitWit Momma)

Mom's Harmony Sweater, Cardigan.... Louisa Harding Fauve, 9 balls... I am a little disappointed in the sizing, its too big for me and too small for mom... Technically my gauge is right on with negative ease..... But, its beautiful! Notice the arms are not completed in these pics..... No worries

y
Sunshine Yarns, Stupefy. A Harry Potter Club colorway. I was doing a"wrapped" ribbed pattern for the cuff to give it some zing... I was going to continue the entire sock but the pooling kind of took over........Me likey!

Have a good one!

Procrastination

2009-02-11T15:28:00.000-08:00

I finished the socks and sweater.... Cough, cough, Pictures? You actually want to see FO pictures? That is where the procrastination part comes in. Mama llama business has been moving me quickly through the day.... Not to mention I was attacked by a nasty cold virus, Chris was generous enough to share it with me. Thanks hon'! ;)

A couple of weekends ago Hillard was in a hugging mood and we were lucky enough to be across the table from William who was playing with his new Blackberry Storm....He snapped this shot fairly quickly.

Hillard has been making some many improvements this year. He still continues to call us by Mommy and Daddy when he feels like speaking, and he actually has picked a few fights with his brother.... It was really cute. He has begun to bring home school work and I can't beleive how much he knows! I'm amazed everyday. Now I know he is listening to us ;)

Current Project:
Want to see the yarn porn of the sweater I am currently working on? I knew you would!
Love Louisa Harding! Her yarn is so yummy.... Got the accent yarn at LYS, Yarntopia.
I have cast on for 15 stitches per 4 inches.... and I'm just making it up as I go ;)

the accent yarn goes so well with the deep earthy green of the Fauve, they look like they were made for each other! Sadly this sweater is not for moi :( Its a b-day present for the sis over seas....

You guys have eventful weeks, and I'll post some good looking knits this weekend!

Happy Birthday!

2009-02-04T06:02:00.000-08:00

What is the first thing your twin does on the morning of your birthday?

Make a Birthday card written in Portuguese of course!

Happy Birthday my Twin ;) It's hard being apart for our birthday....
I love you too!

All in a Days Work

2009-01-28T14:09:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I was really excited to get a little "swap gift" in the mail from Lisa! I swapped cashmere for some Crown Mountain hand spun by Lisa.... Gotta love knitting with yarn spun with love ;)

I couldn't wait to cast on for a slouch hat, or beret. I chose the MarioBeret. It only took me 2 hours to complete!

Another "One Day" knit (I made this last Monday night), The Cashmere Neck Warmer. This pattern knitted up in record time! It feels very soft and cozy, I've worn it twice without blocking it yet!

I am here to let you guys know about a rockin' moisturizer.... I have never met Connie nor do I usually publicly boast about something unless I LOVE IT! I got this beauty gem shopping last Friday in Old Town Spring. We stopped at a great shop that was blowing TON's of bubbles outside its pourch...... I came across a shelf nearly empty of face care products..I have VERY SCARY dry skin and I'm sensitive to many name brands and thought I'd give this a whirl. Its the only moistureizer on earth that doesn't burn my face when I put it on! Plus my skin GLOWS all day long. I've gotten several compliments on how great my skin looks.....

So yup, here is my new affordable beauty secret!
http://www.conniesbathshack.com

I'm already on the second Trickle Sock. Its going by very fast and the pattern is really easy! Jenn is going to love these little sweaters for her feet when she makes the move to Montana!

I realize this is a pretty weak post.... Nothing deep or exciting. I'm turning 35 in one week! Thats exciting right?

Enabled once again!

2009-01-21T15:16:00.000-08:00

We all enjoy Lolly's blog.....Not only does she take truly beautiful photos that capture the beauty of a pattern, but she also has great taste in knits! These caught my eye while catching up on blogs this week.

Francis Revisited- gotta love big gauges that actually flatter!
Lett Lopi Vest- I will be adding sleeves to this knit. Cap sleeves give me the "fat arm affect"

You can bet they will be on the needles with Jenn's B-day Trickle Socks before the weekend is over!

I always have fun with the Mosaic Maker..... Here are a few of my favorites knits and stash yarn.

Inentory Sale & Project Updates

2009-01-18T13:05:00.000-08:00

Hey all! I posted some Mama Llama Inventory Yarn for Sale HERE

Trickle Socks, STR (whe it came in 200yd skeins) Cotton Candy

Louisa Harding, Fauve

I spent almost 5 hours going through stash,taking photos,updating my ravelry,and writing a hell of a lot of HTML! Everything is mostly updated now...I am working on a Website for my husbands Aunt. She has a small Cafe and I will be spending much of my week writing the menu and such (thank the lord for Microsoft Publisher).

Since my last computer died 3 weeks ago I no longer have my short cuts of FrontPage. GRRRRR
Thats okay, I need to refresh my skillz that kill in HTML ;)

De What?

2009-01-15T00:06:00.000-08:00

Brandon has a new addiction and to be frank it's starting to worry me.... De Blob... Yup that fun little creature that rises against INKT to paint a city. Haven't heard of this Wii game? OH just ask Brandon he'll spend hours recounting tales of all sorts of heroics. Chris and he have already beaten the game and yet it still draws him in:

Good weekend for the New Year

2009-01-12T06:52:00.000-08:00

I began my weekend with a quick visit to my local yarn shop Yarntopia. It had occured to me that my "slump" is due to the fact that My beloved addi's (Size 1 40") broke. Yes folks if you love addi's that much, they will break. Needless to say with a fun visit with some friends the purchase was made and I'm trucking now on a very fab pair of socks once again ;)

Chris and I got to visit with some of his families friends. The G's came to town on the way to Mexico. We had a great poker night.... What can I say? Good company, beer, prime rib, and poker! I was in heaven :) I had met Leo (the bigger G) several times before, but I never had the pleasure of meeting Mike (litle G). Great guy and Chris got to have "guy time" with him playing a few sets of tennis on Sunday. Mike gave me a book I can't seem to put down now:

Mike will be traveling for the next few months from Costa Rica, Chile and did I hear him say Antartica too? He will be chronicling his travels on Blogspot. He will be pinpoiting it all on an attached goodle map, go check him out; http://thetravellingg.blogspot.com

On Sunday when they were playing tennis I got two precious hours all to myself, it was really nice just to sit and relax. I made it my mission not to hop up and start cleaning the house....I've got all week to procrastinate on that ;)

I hope to be posting a bit more now that I have some good knits and reads going on!

Have a safe week.

Ummmmm, Yup

2008-12-14T16:52:00.000-08:00

I'm actually blogging... Has anyones heart stopped beating from the shock? I'm pretty much shocked that time has flown by so fast!
A President Elect, trip to Brasil, 2 dress sizes and Christmas shopping all taken care of and it seems there is still so much more to accomplish before 2008 comes to a close.
With that said I haven't been able to finish a project in months. A slump all across the board; can I blame the economy?
I am a dyer for a wonderful new club called the Color Co-Op... There are some amazing dyers alongside me.... To be honest I was flabbergasted to be chosen. It is a lot of fun and I plan on joining as member next month. This is the colorway I came up with for the November shipment:

Check out the Ravelry group to see more dyers photos... Here is a link... GO JOIN! Its awesome!

I also have a new Mama Llama colorway named "Granola Girl". Thats what my mom has called me all my life so I figured it was time to name a colorway after myself... I know, its sounds bad huh? The Mama Llama Club is coming to an end for the 2008 year and I'm sad, I might cont. it for 2009, not sure....

Any knits in the works? In a word, NO! But I am doing applique work for a 50th anniversary quilt for my parents. 4 months late!!!!!
I'll ost pics next post.... Yes ther will be a next post very soon.

Hope you guys are well!
ME

IKE Sucks!

2008-09-17T18:57:00.000-07:00

We're okay! :) I had a lot of emails I've answered most of them, but here is a post about IKE!

As a lot of you know I'm an absolute weather nerd and had been following him since he was a wee depression.... Well then my big boy grew up and went from a Cat 1 to a Cat 4 in 12 hours! While he was visiting the poor souls of Cuba as a Cat 4 , I was convinced that he was a Mobile/Pensacola storm.... Hmmmm, he had a different idea of what "fun" is and teased Houston all the way to the end. Most of us were expecting a turn like Rita... But I knew better.... UKMET model showed a true path almost the entire way....

Here is a video shot around 9pm when the 50 mph gusts were blowing the "Sturdy Oaks" to kingdom come! Not to mention BEAUTIFUL sunset.

It was a restless night and I spent most of it awake listening to debris hit the roof and terrified that the flimsy pine tree in front of the house was going to crash in on us!

All night long the transformer explosions lit the sky like fireworks, it was an amazing site! The lights inside flickered on/off all night long threatening a permanent darkness. Finally at 4am the transformer lost it's battle with the 85+mph winds and blew....

Hillard awoke to darkness and we lit candles all around the house.

When we finally emerged the street was covered with debris, a few shingles, fences blown down everywhere, and no power.... We were also warned on the battery operated radio to BOIL OUR WATER!

The AFTERMATH!
We now await the insurance adjusters call.... We were one of the lucky neighborhoods that got power back on the first day... Our fence was trashed, the debris is picked up and hauled away. The back patio needs to be gutted... And we aren't too sure if those shingles in our yard were ours or a neighbors.....

In Katy:
Gas pumps that actually have gas are 10 cars deep in lines. Grocery shelves are empty.... I find that people are in panic mode... If you don't have power and running water, panic is a very natural feeling...

We have it sooooo lucky here in Katy, Most of Houston has no power, Cities close to the coast are simply gone and residents are asked not to return for ah wile... We have it lucky.

I've been trough a lot of hurricanes and I remember them all, I can put IKE as a notch on the belt.

And so it Begins

2008-08-24T19:03:00.000-07:00

AHHHHH! School begins in the morning and I have survived the summer months.... We all have. This summer has been exceptional when it comes to progress. Hillard is finally calling me Mommy.... It has taken nearly 8 years, but paitence has paid off and I get to hear my sweet sons voice once in awhile. This summer he has grown physically and has made great strides devlopmentally... Don't ask me specifics, I just know he is different somehow. A certain maturity he was lacking before. Parents of older autistics always told me that their children seemed to "change" somehow when they reach 7 or 8 years old. I can see what they mean now.

We will join the YMCA tommorrow morning. Not to join a community, not to get in shape, but Brandon to get the chance to play with other kids! Being apart of the community and getting in shape are just side affects of Brandons social growth. He is very bored here at home and mothers-day-out programs are expensive. I don't mind taking a few aerobics classes and getting in shape while Brandon learns the Do's and Dont's from peers ;)

Mama Llama Excitment:
I was approched by the Knit at Night Guild of Houston to do a demonstration of dyes, the process and techniques etc. I am so excited I've already got 3 pages written up of informative stuff to show and talk about. (without revealing any Mama Lama secrets of course)

The same day, I was asked to be apart of the first indie dyer Sock Club organized by indie dyers! It was such an honor to be asked and I joined the Co-Op immediately. Here is a link if you want any information on it. I plan to join as a participant as well. You pay bi-monthly instead of all at once....I like that part ;)

Y'all take care!

Long time no Blog!

2008-08-20T06:04:00.000-07:00

Wow! has it been that long since I've posted? Sorry guys, time sure does fly by when you're busy in life. Here is whats been up:

Las Vegas: What can I say it was a blast! We stayed in the Bellagio in a 2 bedroom 2,000 sq foot suite! Thats bigger than my house! Carmen and I had a full spa day, We went to see Cirque De Solie's "O" (4th row center), Star Trek the Experience, and lots of late night romantic meals. One of our meals was on the terrace at "Olives" and we sat at the edge where we could watch the Bellagio Water Show every fifteen minute just a few feet away from us! That was my favorite meal in Las Vegas so far.
Here is a link to my sisters photo page dedicated to the trip

Mom and Dads 50th Wedding anniversary Celebration:
What a wonderful weekend! we were run off a bit early by a Tropical Storm ( thank goodness mother nature decided to send it AFTER the party).... It was a lot of fun! All my sisters and their families, and my brother and his family. It was a lovely party and a fun getaway at the beach too.

Autism Yarn:
Should be debuting at woolgirl.com anytime soon. Wanted to give you a heads up just incase you were waiting for it.

Fall Sock exchange:
I got a letter in the mail from Amy. Its not a chain letter, but similar, I send the person at the top of the list some beautiful sock yarn and move Amy up on the list and put myself down so i can get yarn ;)....Then I mail a copy to 6 willing friends. Are you interested in recieving this fun letter? I can think of 4 people that are good for it, but I need two more people! just send me an email to catherinekerth AT hotmail DOT com if you're interested!

Brandon is nagging me to play, bot 2 more days! can I keep my sanity.... why is it the last month of summer kids forget how to entertain themselves? gotta go! :)

Tanks A Lot!

2008-07-28T18:57:00.000-07:00

I always seem to luck out with the SP love ;)I apologize for the tardiness of my post. I was on vacation shortly after the AWESOME gift box arrived. Knit Picks, stith markers, hand lotion (that hillard tried to eat)Stitch n' Pitch bag (LA dodgers, Chris is a Giants fan heheheh)..... lots of cool things! favorite colors and scents represented, I couldn't ask or a better delivery!

I can't say too much about my downstream pal, but she has been gone almost all summer long. She's back at home now so I can start spoiling her properly!

I finished this tank July 2..... I wore it while shopping for vacation outfits....NOTE: Do Not wear handknitted items shopping. by the time the day was done it streched 3x's its normal size!

Vacation pics next post!

2008-07-08T05:40:00.000-07:00

I had made a family photo slide show awhile back and I thought I'd share it with you guys. Granted not all pictures are flattering to Chris or myself, but the moments were very special! Turn up the volume and enjoy a day at the Downtown Aquarium and Houston Zoo.

Lets Celebrate!

2008-07-02T18:45:00.001-07:00

Festivities were kickin' on saturday night at Pappasitos! The turn out was spectacular. I acually went out of my comfort zone and met up with new people.

New colorways (colors are near true)

I will be updating the colorways webpage on mamallamaknits.com with these new colorways....
Mad dash to pick a skein ;)

Friends And Family

And boy did we EAT!

I have lots more to post about next time....like my new found love for knitting while playing Full Tilt Poker (screen name, PurlGirl)....And I am almost done with my Simply Zen Y'all Tank Top.
Autism colorway will be avaiable at Woolgirl Soon! Promise! Mucho profit from you puchase goes to autism research so check them out!

take it easy!

Sing a Song!

2008-06-20T10:37:00.000-07:00

Harmony is finsihed! Isn't she purrrrrrty!

So, I know I promised a free pattern in the past post, but I have 3 people just itching for size specs. and that takes a lot of math and work, so I will be selling the pattern instead... Sorry folks :( Please don't tar and feather me...
I'm nearly done writing it and I need a few people to proof it and maybe knit small portions of the pattern to make sure there are no glitches. Warning I will be releasing it for sale before a full test knit is finished.

I've already started another tank top with Berroco Zen Colors. This tank is just plain knit, nothing special... The yarn is way too pretty to put it with a lace pattern.

SP Question of the week:
What is your favorite summer vacation childhood memory?
My parents took all us kids to Pensecola FL every summer for about 10 yrs. in a row. My older Brother and Sisters are 13 yrs older than us twins so it was kind of a crazy troop! Teenagers and toddlers! Of course I had the "cool parents" that let their kids take friends on vacation with them.... So we always had atleast 12 people along for the ride!

2008-06-17T19:17:00.000-07:00

WWKIP
I participated in Knit In Public Day. It was a lot of fun; 4 of us from Yarntopia rode together and had lunch before the big Saturday event.

Simple things in life really amaze me... Like how did he fall asleep like this and remain there for 1 hour? Poor Brandon his brother kept trying to pull him up on the sofa by his underwear. Atleast Hillard wanted to help him out.... But Brandon woke up with the biggest wedgey!

What was in that!
So Hillard had Chris and I a little worried last week about a probable infestation of critters in his bowels (if you get my drift)... I won't describe what came out of him, but it wasn't your typical run of the mill critter.... First off it really didn't look like a critter at all but it was sure shaped like one....
I'll spare more details and cut to the chase.... You know those big "hairy" rubber balls... You know the kind.... Apparently Hillard has been pulling of the stretchy "hair part" of the rubber and eating it! I thought, "no way he never eats unediable things".... Then Chris saw him do it tonight! He ate it right infront of us! Guess I'll get a little surprise tommorrow :)

Chris and I didn't get to celebrate this years anniverary with a night out, but we did have a special dinner , take out style! And he came home early with a great card that pretty much described everything! A messy house, messy kids & and a cute couple enjoying the heck out of it together.

Free Pattern coming up next post you guys! LOVE how this tank is coming out!

SP12 and other Fun Stuff

2008-06-07T07:05:00.000-07:00

Secret Pal 12:
I am getting ready for another round of SP. I am hostessing again and I'm looking forward to getting to know my group. This time I joined, so I get to spoil! Here is a link to my questionaire ;)
Other Fun Stuff:

Mama Llama News: I'm Global! http://www.thewoolshack.com/ in Australia will be carrying Mama Llama by next month! Also I have New Bamboo in stock! Go check it out its selling fast!

My friend Lisa designed the Melody Scarf and I enjoyed knitting one of the simple lace patterns used in it so much that I'm making a lace tank top from it. I am using Louisa Harding Fauve in a beautiful blue color. It is turning out even better than I expected! I have 6 balls of yarn @127 yds each so we'll see how far it gets me. I'm using 10.5 needles for the bottom lace portion and its giving me more than enough stretch to hug those "curves". photo:

It feels great to create again. Hope the top portion turns out like I want it!

Mama Llama Knit Night Party: Look two posts down if you haven't yet to sign up for the Knit Party in Houston TX June 28th! We are up to over 20 people now....Even my BFF is flying from Cali. for it. Wooo Hooo! Should be a good time :)

Please keep my father in your thoughts and prayers. He will begin radiation treatments very soon. Right now he is taking an experimental drug and its making him very ill.... He will go in for more biopsy and tests June 9th to see if they have halted the aggressive cancers growth.

The Camera is SO Hateful!

2008-05-28T14:13:00.000-07:00

I admit it! The camera has never liked me. Although I think this top looks horrible on film, it is AMAZING in person! Never have I made a better knit! I'm saving this top for Vegas on July 20th. I dare not sweat in it before then ;)

I have a few other "big knit" tanks in the queue for this summer; Zen Colors, Fauve, and Samoa........

I am waiting on sunsilk yarn from Dani at sunshineyarns.com to make the Flutter Scarf for my trip.... I love her mermaid colorway.....

Mama Llama Knit Party!

2008-05-08T12:29:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone! I would like to celebrate 2 years of fiber goodness with a meal, knitting and friends. I have been posting on ravelry the past couple of days about planning a get together. I want to keep it informal b/c I'm really not sure how many of you are interested in coming!

Here's the Plan:
When: June 28, 2008 5 pm
Where: Email me at mamallamaknits@hotmail.com for location. (privacy reasons)
Why: Mama Llama is 2yrs old, come celebrate with me!
You will be responsible for your own check.... Our waiter is going to hate us ;)

Reserve your goodie bag! There will be a special sock yarn colorway and stitch marker set to celebrate this event that will never be duplicated again! Take advantage of this great price! $12

I will only make as many goodie bags as are reserved....... Make sure you don't miss out and click the paypal button to reserve yours! It will also give me an estimated head count.

I will send out reminder postcards one week prior to the event.
I will be using the address on your paypal account to do so.

Thanks everyone I hope to see you there! I'll bring the camera!

Worth Mention

2008-05-04T20:00:00.001-07:00

One Skein Wonder, Rowan Calmer

Juliet, GGH Samoa
6 Balls

Secrets Out!

2008-04-16T19:24:00.000-07:00

I've held it inside for so long I think I'm exploding! If you go look here you'll see what all the fuss is about.

I feel like Ann- Margret when she heard the news that she was the lucky teenager hosting famous rock star Conrad Birdie in "Bye Bye Birdie". One of my favoite childhood movies. What was that? You weren't raised on MGM musicals? You know those movies.... Singing in the Rain, Thoroughly Modern Millie, Meet Me in St. Louis, so on and so forth.....
hmmmmm, did I get off topic again?

Oooo yes, the "secret". Well have you clicked that link yet? Sweet knitters have contacted me sending their compliments. It is really nice to have that affirmation. Especially since I only slept 4 hours a night for 3 weeks to get it all done in time! Phew!

In the midst of all of it I managed to join the Hand Dyed Yarn Swap. My partner is from Finland and I received the best package from her yesterday. I am totally impressed with the fact that I got gifties from the Arctic Circle! Not to mention Jaan is a really great pin-pal. We have a lot in common; we both have young children, and we knit! what else could I as for in a long distance friendship ;) I will post pics next time of the awesome goodness! My camera needs charging. AGAIN!

Autism Yarn: It will be for sale very soon at Woolgirl.com, proceeds going to autism reasearh of course.... Autism Speaks (which joined with CAN a few years ago and I was supportive of.)

Health conerns:
My Daddy and our family could sure use ya'lls prayers. Found out he has caner last Thursday. The good news is that its centralized in one part of the body so we can all take a deep breath that the survival rate is extremely high.

Say a little prayer for my silly heart again please. Its really no big deal but my cardiologist wants me to follow up with an electro-cardiologist or Arrythmeia specialist? (Not sure on the spelling or proper name for that specialty.) I'm having terrible dizzy spells....... And my Holter reading sucked, again!
I probably need different meds to contol the constant "fight or flight" feeling I have during a normal day ;) that would be pretty cool! hmmmmmm, to actually have a good Poker hand on Friday nights and not have the Tell-Tale sign of a heeving chest and grabbing at my heart like the guy from Sanford and Son! ....... Muhahahahahaha!

Inspired

2008-04-03T21:19:00.000-07:00

I am very thankful for the publicity that Autism gets now-a-days. I was inspired to dig into my dyes and come up with this colorway. Its name is simple, Autism...

This ones for you Hillard ;)

I asked Lisa to chart a pattern for Autism Awareness month. What she came up with is fabulous. I can't wait to show you guys next week when I complete the first sock.

Spec's: 300 yds varigated, 100 yds solid (for heel and toe)

bamboo/merino/nylon blended yarn

A little Bit of This

2008-03-24T08:16:00.000-07:00

One Skein Wonder..... I hope my 1 ball of calmer will stretch to fit the yardage needed for this pattern. This is such a quick knit.... I've only worked on it for about 2 hours and I'm nearly done... love it when you can get a "quick fix" garment! ;)

Speaking of Quick fix garments I've chosen a lot of tank top patterns for summer knits.... And its no surprise that all of them are larger guaged items. Phew! I have them Queued on Ravelry if you're curious!

Portal Socks from "Twisted"..... I have made these as a gift for my best friend Jenn. I hope they aren't too big for her. Every time I make her socks they always come out loose! Shes wears the pairs I make her, until they fall off her feet. Knitters always love getting knitted gifts :)

I was gifted an amazing pair of Socks from my good friend Lisa. She is really an awesome designer and I sent her a skein of Mama Llama Monterey and this is what she came up with. I love wearing these socks!

Weight update: Well, my new eating habits amd exercise routines are working out for the best. I started a sweater in late December that will be too big for me when I finish so I've decided to put it to rest. Whats the point of finishing a sweater that will be too big? I've decided to go ahead and account for weight loss in my tank top projects.... Just not sure how many inches I'll end up "bust-wise" when all is said and done.....

If you want to know the link that I find most healpful for small weight gaols its this:

http://www.nytimes.com/ref/health/caloriecounter.html

Fill in the fields and follow the suggested caloric intake.... It really works! But to get a realistic calorie intake you have to exercise regularly...... I do 140 mins. activity/week and I consider that "moderate" exercise.

I document all my calories and exercise minutes on Sparkpeople.com

They even have a Ravelry group! yey!

take care :)

Reclaiming

2008-02-25T07:49:00.000-08:00

You might wonder what the heck is she going to babble about this time! I didn't make any resolutions this year, I had the attitude "why set myself up for failure?" If you know me, or if you have spent and extended time around me you'll notice I'm probably one of the perkiest people you'll ever met. My Mom likes to call me "PollyAnna". So the word failure rarely comes to mind. I've become much of a recluse lately, not sure why? I've avoided friends and many social activities. I haven't read blogs in months!

This is when the reclaiming comes in, I am reclaiming my social life, my knitting and my body!

I have lost 2.5 inches in my waist, 2 inches in my hips and 1 inch in my bust! i'm loving my rowing machine! The scale is not my biggest supporter.... I've only lost 8pounds.... grrr.. But i'll take muscle over fat anyday. Beggers can't be choosers ;) Even Chris is loving the rowing machine!
This sudden body change has motivated me to start thinking of spring and summer knits...

Giotto for the "Waterlily Top" from Interweave

My current project. Portal socks from Twisted..... I bought two skeins of this yarn but 1 skein will give me a pair of socks. So i think i will sell or trade the second skein..... Interested?

Take a vote!

Should I make a Clap with this Mama Llama Caspian? Or a "Lace Tank"? let me know what you think!

Obviously I'm feeling better about myself, so I hope that cures the blues..... Wonder if the blues started when Carmen moved to Brasil? I probably shouldn't have stopped teaching knitting.... I really enjoyed that too.

I joined a handpainted swap and I love my partner... She is from Finland and has the same color taste as me..... I love to dye (obviously) so this is going to be fun :)

take care guys!

All in a Family

2008-01-25T06:49:00.001-08:00

First off, I'd like to thank everyone for there kind emails and comments about Hillard, you guys are the best. And he was a virtual chatterbox last night! We only understood about half the things he siad (through sign language and speech) but we still had fun playing together as a family.

You guys may remember my birthday is coming up soon. Its not something I really like to broadcast b/c I hate that awkward feeling of people thinking they have to get me something.
Its going to be a really tough birthday since Carmen won't be around to celebrate with me. This is the second birthday in 34yrs that we won't be together and I'm thinking it will be just as hard as the first. (I had moved to Northern California 2 weeks before our birthday in 2000)....
To make this year a little less painful and hopefully tearless Chris is making a big to-do by having My favorite kind of party....A Crawfish Boil....!
The best part of this was the invitation email he sent to the family.... It was PURE CHRIS!

Hello All!

As I am sure you are all aware, on Sunday, February 3rd there is a big event worthy of an even bigger celebration. That is the day before Catherine Peddy Kerth and Carmen Peddy Rinehart gracefully pass into their "mid-thirties". Since they'll probably be crawled up in the fetal position on Monday, Feb 4, as they realize how old they've become, I figure it's best to celebrate their special day one day early. ; )

For this momentous occasion, I would like to invite all of you to a crawfish boil at "blank". All of the details should be included on the attached invitation. Obviously, Carmen, Richard, Thomas and Patrick will not be able to attend, but we'll all eat a crawfish in your honor.

When upon receiving this invite almost every member in the family was in hysteria with laughter. I think I even heard Carm Laughing all the way from Rio, Brasil ;)

I Leave you with this:

I'd like everyone to prepare for "Brandon's Creations". Yes, apparently the dyeing bug has bitten my youngest and he can't get enough of it!

Two Words

2008-01-16T19:23:00.001-08:00

I've had writers block for a while and I'm sure its gone noticed by a few of you. Honestly I've been working hard on "secret" projects and trying to tred water while expanding my business.

The only thing that made me stop and think with clarity was the voice of my seven yr old. Yes, thats right you heard me his VOICE! We got a small glimpse of its amazing sound once again the other night. He was not prompted nor was he bribed with reinforcers. I know what you're thinking, "whats so different about this time"? It was the situation that brought tears to our eyes:

Brandon was happily walking next to his brother when suddeny he doubled over grabbing his foot in pain. It was really weird, there was a large cut on Brandon's foot and we had no idea what happened. Hillard stood by a stared at Chris and Me while we doctor'ed his foot. When it was all over Hillard spoke two very powerful words "Brandon's Crying".

I know what you're thinking again, "oh, how cute he's showing concern for his baby brother". YES, showing concern, thats the most important part! Thats what made his voice so special. Hillard never shows concern for other peoples crys of pain.

It's small accomplishments like this that make me think, "hes going to make it, its all going to be okay". It gives me a chance to connect with my son, in that tiny moment there IS a connection. Hopefully they will happen more often as he grows.

His stims (flapping) got really bad over Christmas break but have been a bit better since he started the routine of school again. He really depends on that and it doesn't surprise me that hes come out of his shell since he returned.

Cross your fingers for more breakthroughs- we are happy to have Hillard just the way he is, but I do hope one day he will call Chris and Me by our names "Dad and Mom".

Watch this video it will bring the water works so get tissue! and turn up the sound and enjoy!
http://www.whatkindofworlddoyouwant.com/videos/view/id/408214?

December in Review

2008-01-03T08:44:00.002-08:00

A lot happened in the month of December! A Trunk Show on the 1st a swap soon after and of course i finally photgraphed some long over due FO's. Christmas brought family fun and craziness too boot!

We had a special gift for Hillard this year and it seems al is right with the world for now.
Here are some highlights of the season! In no paticular order ;)

My new Camera that should be arriving any day now! Lumix 18x The camera I have now works when it feels like it... Its 4 yrs old and I've grown out of it.

My current project. Upsidedown Hourglass Sweater

Sweet Alyssum Shawl (took me only 10 days)

New Mama Llama Colorway "Permafrost"

FO , Nordic Lights

Swap Gift from Down under!

The most awesome Christmas gift EVER! My favorite TV show Three Sheets , Pleepleus Shirt, and first sean on DVD. Zane Lamprey is the funniest drunk guy ever!

FO My moms slippers......Finished these in 2 days.....

Trunks Show, me and Janet (Twisted Knitter)

Hillard's special Gift. He actually asked for this for Christmas. He spoke the words "I want"!

Fingerless Swap gift from Bernadette @ hookedonknitting.blogspot.com

Annual Family Christmas Eve party

More family at Christmas eve. See my twin sister sitting on my handsome hubby :)

Brandon tearing into those long awaited Gifts!

Trunk show: These women traveled a LONG way to see the trunk show! so awesome to meet them :)

FO, Amanda's mini Cardi!

Thats Dec. in a nutshell. I still have a lot of promised things to mail out and I'm a bit bogged down, just wanted to let you guys know I am actually alive and healthy!

What's your style? A Video Tag Game.

2007-11-27T08:06:00.000-08:00

I'm starting a different type of Meme. I want to know how you knit!

Record yourself knitting and then tag others.

Project: Amandas Mini Cardi
Yarn: Rowan Calmer, Onyx
Needles: Sz 8 Knitpicks Options
Technique shown: Knit and Purl "continental" ( if you look carefully I throw with my left hand)

Here are my two videos; Purling and Knitting..... I tried to slow down so you can see what I'm doing:

Please comment with your link so we can see how you knit! Teach us any technique you want, or just film yourself knitting!

I tag : Jenn, Lisa, Keri, Nora, Wendy, Sheryl, Amy, Janet, and You if your reading this!

Back Home!

2007-11-05T05:54:00.000-08:00

Rio De Janeiro was amazing! I picked up some of the language and got to live like a local on Ipanema beach for a week! It wasn't all fun and games, this is a pic of me early one morning working hard ;)

here are thumbnail photos of my adventures: click on them to see full views..... If it doesn't link please leave a comment so I know to change photo hosts......

Two Brothers (vista)
look out at the base of Two Brothers the beaches are Leblon and Ipanema

Girl in Ipanema
yes this is the resturant where the writer of that song would sit a watch the girl, and wrote the song.... the food was awesome!

Poa de Acuzcar (Sugar Loaf)
beautiful views of Rio.... there are two parts to Sugar Loaf, the smaller mountain; and then Sugar Loaf itself.....

We were lucky that they were feeding the monkeys!

Corcovado & Cristo Rendtor
I have always wanted to visit this amazing statue..... I was moved and I teared up several times, he is absolutely astonishing; not to mention larger than life!
The mountain that he tops has the largest urban forest. And thats a birds eye view of the largest soccer stadium in the world......

Wave Adventures
I have NEVER seen waves this size....and Carm said these were smaller than usual, a very "calm day".... Can you see that the waves are larger then the people? And the under toe was tremendous! You can see us falling in one picture, then running away :)

Ipanema Walk & Brunch
We walked on the sidewalk a little ways to eat at a seaside resturant for brunch. We got some pics of Two Brothers (mountains) on the way,
pics of the food,
and 4 boys getting coconuts to drink and eat! One of them is in the tree tossing the coconuts.

Ipanema Beach Lizards
the last day I was there I wanted the total "beach exp." Friday was a hioliday , brazil's "day of the dead"so the beach was full. The beach is full of all kinds of Vendors...Shrimp, Cheese, Buscuits, Drinks, even clothes! I tried some body surfing as well......

This was just a smigin' of my pics....... Thanks y'all for checking out my vacation highlights....
Side note: Mama Llama is starting up a new yarn club for 2008.... Go to mamallamaknits.com for dtails

Sedona Socks

2007-10-23T08:57:00.001-07:00

My dear friend Lisa from Little Bit of Knit designed these fabulous socks for Mama Llama! (she used Mama Llama Bamboo Sock colorway Bella) If you guys are on Ravelry make sure to put it in your queues! She is starting a stole with Mama Llama yarn pretty soon, can't wait to see what she comes up with :)

Seems as if I'm having commitment issues lately. i've started several projects only to get bored with them 1/4 of the way through and starting another. Please tell me this is a phase all knitters go through... Can I find sanity in my indecisiveness? 3 pairs of socks, Nordic Lights capelet , & a tunisian crochet scarf! And I'm slow to pick these back up :(

I am jumping on the Mr. GreenJeans bandwagon, lovely pattern.

Get ready for lots of exotic pictures next post! see you guys in Nov.!

Celebrate Good Times

2007-10-18T05:42:00.000-07:00

Chris got a promotion! He will begin his Senior Accountant duties officially next week but they already have him going to the meetings and training. He has worked so hard for this and I'm very proud of him. I think what touched him the most was the overwhelming response of congrats from his co-workers. It was announced after he left work; by the next morning his inbox was full of well wishes. He had a lot of people approching him to shake his hand...... I guess it was obvious to more than just me that hes worked hard for this.

It almost doesn't seem real that in 10 days I will be leaving for Rio. I am so excited and nervous all at the same time. I HATE planes, just the thought of being in the air makes me panic. 12 hours, 12 hours! I can hardly stand 4 hrs to California.... Apparently, you get on the plane at 9pm they serve dinner at 10pm... then they turn all the lights off in the cabin and expect you to sleep in a space the size of an apple create. Can we say sleeping aid! any suggestions?

Not sure If I will get to post again before I leave. I need to hurry and teach myself Tunisian Crochet before I get on that flight!

Big Fun!

2007-10-15T07:02:00.000-07:00

I got to meet Laurie! You all know, Crazy Aunt Purl.... She is such a nice person. And a knock-out to boot! Did that sound weird? Laurie came to Yarntopia to hang out, knit and sign some books too. I got the chance to tell her that I was Jenn's best friend! Jenn told her to watch out for me, Cool huh! Here is a photo that Janet from Twisted Knitter took of us:

Yes thats a mimosa in my hand, I admit it!

The Trunk Show was a success and I got to meet some lurkers of this blog... You know who you are ;) I had a great time meeting so many different people and I'm thinking.....
I LOVE DOING TRUNK SHOWS! If I had it my way I'd travel around the country doing this! hmmmm, could I do that? Would Yarn Stores want a bum like me to hang out in their shop and meet people and enable their customers with even more yarn?

More pictures to come of the trunk show next post..... promise ;)

Want to know what I'm working on?

A little bit of Noro

Silk and Disco (ruby wine)

Claudia hand painted (plum) Two socks at once....

In the Mood

2007-10-10T07:07:00.000-07:00

I'm excited to announce: for those of you who live in the Houston and surrounding areas Mama Llama will be having its first Trunk Show! This Saturday at Yarntopia.... Laurie Perry a.k.a Crazy Aunt Purl will be there for book signing, and i get to share in the fun. Hope to see you there....

In the name of Socktoberfest I leave you with yarn porn....

We could all use a little Sunshine from Dani!

wool silk in colorways Spice and Indian Corn 440yds.....mmmmmm, good!
Did that reinforce the excitment of Socktoberfest? I sure hope so!

What socks are on your needles? I want to know :)

Lately

2007-10-05T09:48:00.000-07:00

Brandon woke from his nap after I wrote this post. He got ant bites yesterday and I gave him benadryl faster than you can spit.... this is what his foot looked like when he awoke. Poor kid is limping; his foot and ankle are so swollen.... i will spare EVERYONE the picture click here if you want to see a pic of his foot....
Here are some knits that have been keeping me busy

Hand warmers Cherry Tree Hill , African Grey Sz 1 needles

colorway: Waterfall
Woolgirl Sock Club socks. Miss Babs has awesome sport weight yarn! The colorway below is called Raspberry Cane

I bought myself flowers today. I use to work in Arcata CA at this growers Admin. building next to the greenhouses and fields. Chris and I miss living up there but were glad we live next to family now. I walked next to these flowers and the strong smell took me back 7 years!

No Censorship!

2007-09-27T08:36:00.000-07:00

I take partial responsibility for my kids bad habits.... But I really can't help their speech impediments........Brandon's favorite movie is Cars and he calls Mater a dumptruck..... We tried practicing the "tr" sound, but to no avail...We've had a little fun with this certain pronunciation..... So here ya go! Click on the picture to link you to the video while i still figure it out!

In no way does he know that this is a bad word.... He honestly thinks he is saying it correctly. I have to hand to him for trying... At least he can say his Uncle Chucks' name correctly now... It too was a really bad word last Thanksgiving.

I hope this was a cute "pick-me-up" for your day.... Pass it on!

PS.... We hold no ill will towards Daddy.... As far as Brandon is concered he hung the moon!

All about Hillard

2007-09-24T06:18:00.000-07:00

We attended a wedding in Galveston this weekend. My sister in law got remarried and it was a beautiful ceremony on a huge deck facing the water. We stayed there over night and it was very different from our normal routine and we worried about Hillards reaction to many things. He was all over the place as expected, but he settled in (sorta).... We were worried if he would sleep without his night time routine, and when we all layed down in the same room, Hillard was the first to snore!

I think Chris and I make parenting Hillard look easy. When he is still for at least 3 minutes and we'd stop to take a breath people looked at us to say "oh is Hillard comfortable here? He looks like he's doing great." Um, sure whatever you say..... You weren't the one chasing him to make sure he didn't jump off the two story deck to get to the water! ":)

Hillard has recently discovered that Brandon is useful and even fun! Hillard has engaged Brandon twice to play chase.... and when they catch each other they give belly burners. It warms my heart to see Hillard finally pay attention to his biggest fan..... And it means THE WORLD to Brandon that Hillard is showing some sort of affection. We all three still wait for Hillard to call us by name, but that day may not come for a while. We are patient people......

Hillard's does have moments of vocalization. His voice is very cute it sounds very much like a deaf persons voice, inflection in strange places and monotoned. But its the most beautiful sound!

Why post about Hillard? I've received a lot of email wondering how he was... With all this Jenny McCarthy business going around it makes people remember their close friends with autistic children.... (Thanks you guys, we love you too!) I didn't get to see Oprah, and I'm sorry I missed it... But I did read the article in People magazine and it saddened me when she said she probably wouldn't have any more children ("she got her butt kicked").... Having Brandon was the best medicine we could have given Hillard. We took a risk and it worked out for us, there will be no more Kerth kiddos out of pure fear! But Brandon is Hillards angel......

Brandon, Patrick, Thomas, and Hillard
P.S. and yes Brandon is that big! Just to keep you up to date on my monster baby... he has exceeded 60pounds and vertically he comes up to just under my chest..... I do hope hes not the only 3 yr 4 mo. old that starts potty training in Sz 10 boys underwear! He and Hillard now share Sz 8-10 boys clothing..... People look at me with mouths agape when I tell them he won't be 4yrs. old for another 9 months......

Meeting the Harlot!

2007-09-18T22:09:00.001-07:00

I was a little (a lot) nervous about the shirt I had chosen for the big event, I felt very self conscious. I don't like to bring attention to myself and here I was wearing a polo shirt with a HUGE Mama Llama logo on it. I felt like a total cheese ball.

My friends and I arrived just in time for us to get the door prizes safely to the stage and sit down without much fuss. There were many awesome door prizes and the crowd got really into all the goodies, 2 people from our caravan got prizes!

Stephanie came out and gave the funniest and most entertaining 1.5 hours! I've always enjoyed her blog and books....and hearing her in person just sealed the deal for me! She's very talented in many ways and I got to meet her!

When she finished speaking we began to gather our things, Eve and Shelley (owners) wanted to give her thank you gifts on stage. I had known before that a skein of Mama Llama sock yarn (in the Twisted Yarns colorway) would be given to her, but I thought it would be in private. They announced my yarn in front of everyone, and even sort of pointed me out in the crowd! I stood up and waved; My face was sweaty and my pitts were worse! Those damn nerves....I was so excited to grab her attention I got tunnel vision for a second....I noticed her smelling the yarn and I thought to myself. "shes a sniffer too!" So I stood up in front of everyone at the most inapproriate moment and yelled," I rinse with lavender water".... OMG! Could I be a bigger DORK! I wanted to give my forehead a good smack after that.

My friends were so supportive, my cheering section. I went to take a photograph of her with the skein, and Bethel ran up and told me to get in the picture with her. Stephanie called them my paparazzi.... I hate to bring attention to myself, and yet I talk a lot and really loud....go figure?

Stephanie Pearl-McPhee and Me
Me, Ellen, Sonya
Sonya, Carolyn, Bethel
Well, you know who that is ;)

Oh did you notice how RED my face is in the first picture compared to the other picture of me.... I wish I didn't blush so easily. #%*#!

Lelah, Amelia & Rio

2007-09-07T12:45:00.000-07:00

I have finally made a garment that I LOVE! Boozehags, your genuis! Lelah is a sensation and flatters any body type; with my own modifications.....
I finshed it this morning and have not blocked it or put a ribbon in the eyelet row. I couldn't wait to share my triumph with you so here are sneak peeks to the unveling:

Let me intoduce Amelia!
It's one of my charted lace patterns. Its made from 100% cashmere and oh sooooo soft! Mama Llama has 6 patterns coming out before the end of the year and all use Mama Llama Yarns. 3 will be free, and 3 will be for sale :)

I'm going to Rio! My sister purchased my palne ticket this morning..... Now I have to stand in line ALL DAY on Monday to get a passport in time.... I leave Oct. 28th....

Introducing the Peddy's

2007-09-05T13:16:00.000-07:00

hmmmm, I might get beat up for posting this, but its a rare thing when you get 4 out of 5 together these days... this was taken last Thanksgiving.... There is a wedding in the family coming up in October and it will be the first time in years that my parents will have all 5 children together again :)

Nevermind that we all think we look horrible in this pic..... Too much wine and turkey does things to people!

Check List

2007-08-26T20:03:00.000-07:00

Bloglines (Check)
I actually got a chance to read some of my favorite blogs! I swear I saw a pig flying outside my window ;) I've missed out on so much....When things get busy around here my beloved hobby of blog reading gos straight down the tubes! Click here for Stitch n Pitch phots! Amylovie has them up on her blog.
Hillard (check)
Hillard starts school tomm. morning and I'm thrilled that he gets the chance to start a new school. we met his teacher and saw his classroom on Thursday, everything seems perfect. Lets cross out fingers for a successful school year.

Brandon(check)
Potty training gets serious this week, the pull ups are getting "lost". Maybe I can use his new obsession of "touching the eggs" as a form of reward? He thinks all eggs have a baby something inside so he cradles them. He wants to check on the eggs at least 4 times a day. We're going to have to get him a pet soon, I just know it!

Knitting (check)
My two WIP's Lelah Top, by Boozehags (rowan calmer).... And Nordic Lights, Wrap Style(DB Cashmerino Aran). I knew you'd wanna see those floats too ;)

I am close to finishing both of them, the only thing stopping me is the recent business growth. Look below for some serious yarn porn!

Yarn Porn (check)
Mama Llama now has Seacell yarns! Wooo Hooo. I am very excited to be bringing these new additions to the luxury line and hope people love it as much as I do.

That's about half of my list of things to do.... Trust me you don't want to know the rest!

Internet Phone Rules

2007-08-20T20:48:00.000-07:00

Thank you everyone for your kind words. I am slowly getting use to my new look and I have used many hair accessories too ;) I actually saw the woman who cut my hair in the grocery store last week and i avoided her like the plague! I'm a terrible liar and she would have seen right through me!

My siter has been in Brazil for 3 weeks now and I am missing her so much.... The boys miss her and her family too. They got internet phone , so we talk daily for an hour or so.. Wooo Hooo gotta love technology! She has a family website with videos and slideshows of her new dwelling and site seeing... its really neat! here is the link, go check it out.... and turn up the volume.... Her voice and mine are identical ;)http://web.mac.com/thegreatcarmie/iWeb/Site/Welcome.html

I'd like to thank Hillards Teachers from last year for going to the trouble of finding my blog and then commenting. WOW! I will make sure to talk about him more to keep ya'll updated. Hes had an awesome summer.... he is singing "Life is a highway" from Cars... Or "I like ot move it" from Madagascar... And his favorite family game is when we all play hide and go seek together after dinner... We all love that!

Sorry this post isn't super funny or interesting, but I'm finishing up UFO's and working on Orders.... Just wanted to check in with you guys :)

take care....and watch that Gulf!

Regrets

2007-08-09T12:29:00.000-07:00

I have few regrets in my life..... Not finishing my Climatology Degree, not developing healtier eating habits, and THIS! Let me intoduce you too the "she-Mullet"

lots of tears and hair accessories.... LOTS!

My hair was all the way down my back yesterday.... now I got "Layers".... my hair is naturally wavy so I am a puffy poddle with a mullet until Christmas!

And Yet More Socks :)

2007-08-07T05:28:00.000-07:00

I got my Sockapalooza 4 Socks yesterday! Big smiles yesterday when my package came in the mail.... The chocolate was melted :( but its in the frezzer! I got lip balm, and green tea mints too! I've already cracked open the balm b/c I'm a chapstick junkie! These socks are Bambbo Regia, and the pattern comes from more sensational socks....Thank you Meg! You can meet my pal here - www.socknitter.blogspot.com

I finsihed up Moms Harry Potter Socks... I ended up dyeing the yarn myself with Mama Llama DK. They turned out so nice and socft... yummy!

Whats in store for my next sock project? Well, my favorite colorway Berkley! This is a new yarn and I am dying to try it out. I even used my new "Knit Design Software" to make a pattern especially for it.

caught up in Ravelry!
I discovered a group in Ravelry that will test knit patterns for designers. I contacted the group with 6 patterns that I have written and all 6 were claimed very quickly by anxious knitters! Wooo Hooo! I plan to mail out all 6 rough drafts and yarns this week. I hope all goes well. I don't know? Could be soon you'll see alot more patterns by Mama Llama!

Big update on My etsy shop: And Free Gift with purchase Tues. Wed. and Thur. of this week!

Harry came Knockin'

2007-07-25T19:37:00.000-07:00

So here are the Sockapalooza socks I have procrastinated on for the past 3 months.... Only took me 6 days to do them. Yipee, one responsiblity down, about a billion to go....

Griffindor socks for Mom. She requested socks for her Aug 5th birthday. eeeeek!I did this while watching talladega nights tonight...

I am well aware I have been a terrible friend and blogger lately...My bloglines should have a hammer attatched with its alret system for losers like me.....
Anybody else feeling a little swammped this summer break?
I am really looking forward to Chris and my "date night" this weekend, I haven't been away from the kids in forever and my brain is mush... When Chris gets home from work I corner him for adult conversation! We all remember that commercial where the wife talks baby to the husband right?

Oh my husband just got intouch with a long lost friend and he is traveling the country and documenting his travels on his blog. go check it out
www.anthonyvachris.blogspot.com

I am reading my bloglines right now, then I have to dye like crazy..... have a great week everyone :)

Three Sheets

2007-07-17T18:39:00.000-07:00

Ahhhhh! I love this show. Where else but on the MOJO HD channel do you find a guy that travels around the world versing his viewers in diffirent cultures and BOOS!!
Hands down you have got to love it, and you actually watch him get wasted (in some of the episodes).... I think the most entertaining part for me is that he hangs out with all the locals.... Sadly, if you don't have HD cable, you can't start watching this Critically Catherine acclaimed show.....
Another new vice? Man Vs. Wild! I never plan on getting stuck in a situation where I am forced to drink my own urine to survive. But if I do atleast I know someone else has done it before me.....and I watched him do it! EWWWWWWW
New Season of Psych is out on USA and I love that show... Looking forward to many more hilarious episodes :)

What have I been up too besides watching TV?
Mystery Stole 3 Clue # 1 Finished!

STR Marbles Socks Finished!

Sockapalooza 4 Pal Socks, Started!(yarn is "handspun sock" from Pigeon Roof Designs)

RavelryI have 7 people infront of me in line! Grrrr. I had hoped to be on the invite today, but looks like I have to wait until tomm. for the coveted invitation ;) See you guys there!

Brandon allergies have gotten so bad that he has to have treatments daily....He is a real trooper about the whole thing :)

have a great week!

Socks, Stole & A Nazi

2007-07-07T21:49:00.000-07:00

SOCK TIME:Did I get you attention? Yeah I did huh? Well Lets start out with the AMAZING Sock Blockers that I received from Becky at Leggy Creations. I couldn't have asked for a more perfect work of art. I LOVE these things and I plan on using them! Aren't they great?

I also got some yummy yarn in the mail from the UK, Posh Yarn. I had this Colorway, Inferno, in my shopping cart and by the time I got to check out it was gone! So Dee looked for another skein for me, Lucky she had one and she sent it along! Thanks DEE, its BEAUTIFUL! Another pair of socks to work for my blockers :)

STOLE TIME:
As you can see on the right hand side I am signed up for Mystery Sole 3.... Well I had my yarn picked out from my stash, it was from the lace swap I did last year.... I got to the 49th row and realized I hated how thin it looked and It began to STRIPE!!!! Oh NO!
I went to talk with a friend after class at Yarntopia and told her what I was working with.... Come to find out it may have been cobweb! I came home and checked the label....YUPP, a 50gm skein is 1200 yds... WOW! Its cobweb.... I'm very proud I made no mistakes! But into the frog pond it goes.... So I got some Malabrigo Baby Merino Lace, and I have to start all over again:( I hope I have good luck with it like I had with the cobweb :) Here is a picture at Row 33 before it started to stripe.....

THE NAZI:
Did you skip to this part?
My husband is trying to watch what he eats so he frequents the local Subway near his office and he noticed the "efficiency" of a particular employee. Chris calls him the "Subway Nazi" (you know, similar to the Soup Nazi from Seinfeld?)
This guy stands at the vegetable part of the serving line, and if you're not quick enough or you can't decide what you want he passes your sandwich along without putting vegetables on! Is that hilarious or what!
Apparently this guy is so efficent that if the line gets backed up at the cash registar he starts taking peoples vegetable orders BEFORE they pick thier bread!
I've got to go see this guy in action!

Thats all for now, have a good week! and I hope to be reading up on blogs this week ;)

We have a Winner!

2007-07-02T19:08:00.001-07:00

And her name is Brynne! Here is the link to the random generator.... I used a lottery random pick and took the first number in sequence b/w 1 and 18.... as you can see it was 5...and brynne left the fifth comment... Congrats Brynne! Your prize is a surprise and I'll leave at Yarntopia for you to pick up next week :)

As you can see I have decided to get on the ball with my Etsy shop and put a few things up for sale....Finally! I spent the entire weekend dyeing 87 skeins of yarn! I've never been so tired in my life (I can only dye b/w the hours of 10pm and 3am) So I didn't sleep much.

I am basically still an Etsy virgin when it comes to selling, I can't figure out how to get my stuff to list correctly....You really have to search to find my stuff.
While I was searching for my own yarns I found a few notable yarns I'd like to aquire from other Indie Dyers... I am SUCH a handpainted YARN HO! I'm already hooked on Posh, not to mention Sunshine yarns as well! Did you see Dani has a Harry Potter Sock Club? $100 and there are only 5 spaces left! Run Forest , Run! *smiles*

My answers to the Contest Questions:
1- Chips and Salsa, Knitting, Ice Tea
2- George Clooney, Julia Roberts (a mom and a knitter), Don Cheadle
3- STR, Jitterbug, Koigu (indie yarns are my fav too!)

Her Name is Rio

2007-06-27T21:44:00.000-07:00

And she dances on the sand..... You guys remember that song right? My twin sister is moving to Rio de Janerio Brasil in 3 weeks and it s already starting to sink in... Carmen and I are very close (like most twins are) And have rarely been apart from each other... We Got pregnant at the same times, we purchased homes at the same time, we live 15 mins. away from each other.... Its going to be hard....
She went last week to visit her husband and brought back some goodies!

There are Fruit Soaps and Magnents, Shirts for the boys and a Conga... (they use these on the beach instead of towels)
All of this is handmade and beautiful! I want to eat the Fruit Soaps!

All in a Nights Work

Worked on this while watching a movie on Friday night! Got 9" done! didn't realize it was going so fast! Its STR colorway Marbles (looks cool)

Brandons new Blanket... I worked on this Saturday during a class.... Finished over 100 yds! I got it on sale at Yarntopia its Berroco Plush $2 a ball! Cheap! and oooooo so soft!

I will pick a winner for the contest on Saturday night! So if you haven't entered go to the post below to enter your answers!

Contest to Celebrate!

2007-06-24T21:49:00.000-07:00

I really needed to post a Thank You to my SP Twistedknitster.blogspot.com for his caring and generosity over the past few months.... I had intended to fully picture the gifted yarn and my projects...
Something happened today, something wonderful! Hillard communitcated with me that he wanted to go to McDonalds! He brought me to the front door and signed the word please and the sign for Mcdonalds ( i think) and then spoke the words! I really couldn't understand him.... Its hard to understand him.... But we got in the car and I drove to Mcdonalds and he screamed out YES ! PLEASE! and did the signs for those words over and over!

We have to celebrate with a contest :)
Three different Questions: answer all three get your name put in the bowl 3 times....

1. If there was a hurricane coming and you could only pack three things; entertainment, food, and drink....what would these items be?

2. If you could play poker with three famous people (dead or alive) who would they be?

3. Whats your 3 favorite sock yarns? (not a sock knitter? whats your 3 favorite yarns?)

Inhale

2007-06-19T00:14:00.000-07:00

It's 2:45 in the AM and I am AWAKE! I have a terrible cold that won't quit and I can't lay down without my nose and ears clogging with snot! Not even a bad cold can stop me from dyeing... I think it's about time to announce the new fall line up for Mama Llama! This is only a sampling of whats to come:

Mama Llama Squish- made of 80Lambswool/10Angora/10Cashmere

300 yds/skein..... Has a very squishy feel to it. Squish is advertised as a DK or light worsted weight, But I would use a Sz 2 or 3 needles to get a good pair of socks from it. Use larger neddles for a more open fabric. (100 yd skeins will be avaiable also....)

Mama Llama Silken Cash- made of 55 Silk/45 Cashmere

This is a 2ply fine fingering weight yarn at 400 yds/skein. It plumped nicely during the dyeing process and will be ideal for lace because of its drape.

Mama Llama Cash- made of 100% Cashmere

Could I have found a more lux sock yarn? Its like knitting with a cloud! At 400 yds /skein this 2ply also plumped in the dye pot and is ready for a Sz 1 needle to knit the perfect pair of high maintience socks... Remember handwash!

Theres more where that came from too ;)

A Reason to Celebrate

2007-06-17T01:31:00.000-07:00

Today Chris and I celebrate two annual milestones; Fathers Day and our Seventh Wedding Anniversary!

Lets set the scene......

Las Vegas in June a small wedding party, a surprisingly large crowd of friends and family gathered in the Chapel of the MGM Grand. I barely fit into my wedding gown, the best man forgot my ring and my oldest sister and her family barely make it off a delayed flight with literally moments to spare before I walk down the aisle. My 4 yr old niece is hugging me tightly with wet underwear b/c she wet herself on the plane, if they had stopped to change her they would have missed the ceremony, she never complained......The pastor realizes we have no ring for the bride and informs us in the womans dressing room. My oldest sister rushes to take off her back up ring and gives it to the pastor....What luck , my sister having her wedding ring AND back up ring on at the same time ;)

Show Time! Both of my parents walk me down the isle to a very excited Groom. the ceremony was 12 mins. long.....We have it all on video and lots of photographs.

Out of 5 kids and 6 weddings we always talk about mine. It was very memorable indeed, not to mention that it was a vacation for eveyone! I guess thats what makes it so special.......

Today we also celebrate the unconditional love of a Father. Thanks Dad for always supporting me and my decsions.

And thank you Chris for being the wonderful adoring father that you are to our children!

First days of Fatherhood with Hillard

With Brandon at Easter

Just Because

2007-06-10T21:44:00.001-07:00

Brandon and Chris were trying on all of their knitted hats from over the past 2 years and they posed ;)

I was curious to find any socks that were made with Mama Llama Sock Yarns, this is what I've found so far :
Twisted Knitter (make sure to wish her a happy b-day whaile you're there

Audrey in Canada used Orchid

Yarn4socks.com did a test pair out of Arcata

Connie from Pick up sticks made Jaywalkers from "Winter self striping" colorway

baby Sock on Etsy out of "Caves&Crystals"

okay, thats all I found :)

Speaking of Socks I've started my Sockapalooza Four Pal's socks! Wooo Hoo! Thanks for voting! And as for the So said "Ametuer Pattern Book" i am working on? Well, all I can say is that all materials have been thrown across the room several times. I won't even mention the fowl language that has escaped my lips.... One of the new patterns will debut by July ;)

Up to No Good!

2007-06-07T21:25:00.000-07:00

I'm designing again folks....This is scary! I have been referred to as the "Pattern Hore" by one of my friends :) Lisa, you know who you are.... I own an obscene amount of beautiful patterns magazines, and books.... but what can I say? I like to design. Here is a glimpse of the yarn I'm working with...They are all Mama Llama.... The bigger skeins are the Alpaca/Silk dyed in "Burnt" and "Earth" colorways.... The sock yarn is the SockII and the colorway is new,"Virginia" (a solid)

I'm making a super cute garment out of the Alpaca silk, and of course some really neat socks with the Sock II.

I have several other patterns all written up and ready to knit... I'm sure b/w kids, full-time motherhood, running a small business, and being a devoted wife I can squeeze in a self published notebook of patterns right? Should I add photographer to that list for the ameteur photoshoot that might take place one day for said "Pattern Book". Who knows I got knit the stuff first!

I have a friend that just started her own business selling these neat do-dad's! She and her husband slave away manufacturing these themselves. Really niffty right? I have 6 in stock
Sz 4 inch, 6inch, 7 inch, and 8 inch $20 ea.

And, Toni at "The Fold" is carrying them as well so you can check with her too if you plan to get some STR while your at it:)
mmmm, STR Terra Firma, Socktopus, & G Rocks! Click the link and drool with me if you wil!
Have a great day!

Calmer; Oh How I Love You

2007-05-31T18:01:00.001-07:00

Have you noticed a slight change? I hope the page looks somewhat normal size on your screen. I saw this cute little guy and thought he would make a good mascot. We have to name him now; any suggestions? Have you noticed me commenting on your blog again? Woooo Hooo, the funk has lifted once again.......

I had a Gift Card given to me before the surgery.... The gifter wished to remain an inigma, so I had no choice but to remain silent and find sneaky ways to discover their identity....

Everyone I approched at Yarntopia looked at me like I had lobsters crawling out of my ears when I thanked them for the generous gift....

I can only conclude that my wonderful SP10 struck AGAIN!

(Nope not my SP.... The mystery lives on! any clues? ANYONE? I'd like to thank this person poperly)

I prodly used that Gift Card to purchase 5 balls of Rowan Calmer Khaki color. I plan on making "Wicked" with it.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart. All of your comments made me feel so much better. Thank you for all the sholders I have to lean on.

A few of you asked about accepting help from strangers if you were in a pickle. Yes, I failed to mention that I was offered help once two years ago. I greatfully accepted a womans offer who came out of no where to help me with my infant and 4 yr. old (in full meltdown). She carried Brandon in her arms all the way to parking lot J! What an angel.

Please feel free to help me decide what I should make for my Sockapalooza Four Pal. Patterns can be found on www.Knitty.com

What Socks should I make for Sockapalooza Pal?

Created on Quibblo.com
find more or create your own

Eye Contact

2007-05-28T22:16:00.001-07:00

Please read this post entirely, and pass it aloong to everyone you know... Its important that we all start helping each other in this world...

This weekend it rained....Alot! And my husband, family and friends resided the house anyway!

My job was simple, entertain the kids and keep them away from the house for 12 hours both days.... Not an easy task but we found ways to entertain the kiddos. My twin sis her two boys , my neice Virginia, Hillard and I (brandon with a grandmother) went to the Cinco Ranch Beach Club. The weather as okay, storms were approching slowly, we thought we'd give it a try.... I knew Hillard would be excited to play in the sand and water.

Right when we walked through the gate black clouds were over us, no thunder. We swam for 10 minutes and a loud clap of thunder shook the ground.... The Lifegauds rushed to get us all out of the pool area.... Then there was Hillard.... A little 6 yr old boy who had no idea what was going on... Or the importance...

I literally DRAGGED him (while in full melt down mode) out of the water across the sand. All the while I got nothing but disapproving stares and glares. I learned a long time ago not to make eye contact, it hurts too badly to see the pure ignorance in other peoples faces. No other child was sceaming, it was silent...and it seemed we were in slow motion as every eye was on us.

My sister didn't know any better and sat all of our belongings at the table furthest from the exit...When you have a child like mine you learn to put everyhting as close to the exit as possible for a quick get away..... So I was left to DRAG my 6 yr old autistic son across the beach and through the patio area down a tunnel under a busy road and into the parking lot.

It makes me want to cry thinking back on it. It was something out of a movie. Really it was... EVERYONE stopped to stare... No one helped me of course (my sister and neice were busy making sure my belongings were being taken care of). But no stranger asked me if they could help. They just all stared and judged. When I would look up and catch someones eye I would say "he's autistic" I would get a sympathetic nod.... But, I don't owe them an explanation. I really don't!

In the parking lot an entire family glared at Me and Hillard instead of packing up their car.... The father said "some people just can't control their children"." My sister yelled at them "he's autistic, he can't help it! Go on; Turn around pack up your car, theres nothing to stare at here". Good for Carmen

I cried a little in the car wishing my sons life was going to be easier. Life is a battle and here he is without a sheild or sword.

Why am I telling you this? If you ever see a mom or dad with a child and that parent looks like they need help. Please help them. I know its uncomfortable to ask a perfect stranger if they need help... But ask anyway.

I know there are some people out there that care... I just didn't meet any today.

Tagged 4 times

2007-05-21T21:04:00.001-07:00

Before I reveal my 8 juicy tidbits, here are the rules:

1: Each player starts with 8 random facts/habits about themselves.
2: People who are tagged, write a blog post about their own 8 random things, and post these rules.
3: At the end of your post you need to tag 8 people and include their names.
4: Don't forget to leave them a comment and tell them they're tagged, and to read your blog.

8 Random Things About Catherine

1) I love the smell of Vinyl Shower Curtins straight outta the bag

2) I still get the school girl giggles every time Chris walks in the door from a hard days work.
3) I LOVE coffee, and Chris is now suppling my habit with the best mothers day gift.. Peetnik... Peets Coffee (the best)

4) I still smell my children.... I once asked my oldest sister and her husband at a family dinner one night "when do you stop smelling your children?" they affectionatley looked at each other and giggled; then they looked at me and said "Never.... But you stop sniffing as much when the are teenagers and forget deoderant" :)

5) I am a picky eater (my food can't touch on the plate) no one offers to make my plate for me anymore....

6) My entire family loving calls me "Granola Girl" and Chris thinks I look my best in maternity overalls, my hair in a ponytail and no make up..... And I LOVE him for that!
7) I go barefoot where ever i can!

8) I sneak and eat hotsauce out of my hand for a snack ;)

I was tagged 4 times with this Meme.... ummmm don't know who else to tag! I think everyone I read has done it! Sarah have you done this yet?

2 Blocks a Month Club

2007-05-14T05:04:00.000-07:00

First I'd like to start out with "People Suck".... Exactly what people? HACKERS! I had several Trojans on my C: drive and I don't like strangers in my memory w/o paying rent! So everything has been cleaned out in the Recovery Process and honestly I've been sitting in water for a week and feel naked without my computer.... This week I have to update and get back to my original working state, then I can upload my bloglines again..... So thats why I've been missing this time ;)

About this post: Since I can't do any pictures of Fifi now I thought I'd mention my 6 month project (June-Nov.) and invite everyone to play along! I will be doing 2 blocks a month of 12x16" blocks for a throw for my parents for Christmas.... Why should you join along? B/c I have Barbara Walkers book of knit and purl designs, and I plan on using it!!!! I will post the patterns at the begining of the month with suggested cast on. It's up to you to decide your yarns, and lets get creative folks! I can start an new blog just for this if we get people interested so you too can post your blocks.

just email me if your in!

have a great week!

Design Ideas:
basketweave, Dimonds, moss, seed, just for starters......I am going to try to come up with more challenging Knit/Purl ideas too...

Whoops! My Bad

2007-05-05T20:32:00.001-07:00

Friday night was the first time that I have dyed since the surgery.... I may have pushed myself a little too hard, but I have a lot of work to do! Maybe I wasn't paying close attention this time because of "said situation" but apparently there was some undissolved solution at the bottom of one of the pots! half of the batch of Vino came out splotchy! Way too splotchy to send to retailers.... I thought I would offer up the Slightly Irregular Skeins to you guys before I put them up in the Shoppe.

here is a stock photo of the Colorway Vino and below it are the available skeins for sale:

3 skeins of Mama Llama Original Sock 100% superwash wool 425yds.ea. $11/skein

4 Skeins of Handpainted (jaggerspun) Merino Wool 1250 yds ea. $14/skein

2 skeins of Mama Llama Sock II Wool/Nylon 70/30 400 yds $10/skein

Fine Print: These skeins are non-returnable... They are imperfect but still have full yardages. They are beautiful skeins but not fit to sell for full price by myself or a retailer. Thanks

Want one? Please contact me at catherinekerth AT hotmail DOT com shipping is up to you Priority or regular.... you decide :)

You know that I don't talk about my business too often... I just hate for these to just sit in a dark corner....

Alive and Kickin'

2007-05-01T16:47:00.000-07:00

It went off without a hitch and i am resting very comfortably at home....Yeah! I do hurt and Chris has been an excellent nurse, housekeeper and child entertainer! I was completely out of it most of the day Monday but I an walking more today.... I have been finishing up Fifi and with any luck she will be done before Thursday night....I might brave it to Knit Night at Yarntopia...(cross-fingers)

here she is!

I've had a lot of luck selling some of my stash.... I hope the rest of it sells just as fast... I kept a lot of it just because I found it hard to part with most of it.... now instead of having enough sock yarn for 52 pairs now it just about 30 pairs ;) 2 sweaters, 4 one skein wonders, misc. accessories, and 4 tank tops.....
muhahahahaha!

Going Under the Knife!

2007-04-24T20:30:00.000-07:00

I would like to say that I'm getting my "boobs done" or getting rid of that thing behind my ear... But, alas the Dr.'s phone consultation came at 6pm tonight... It's gotta come out!

I will be having surgery first thing on Monday April 30th. I know to many of you this is no big deal but I am on a streak! No broken bones or surgeries for me EVER!....Well, until now that is.

I am in an emense amount of pain and have become lovers with my tylenol codine... "Goofy Catherine" has been appearing nightly and if you stay up late enough in this house you get an encore!

I hope all can go well with just Laparascopy... but If the sucker is playing hide and go seek (or has squeezed the life outta my right ovary) I will have to get a laparotomy and stay a few nights in the hospital.... Lets hope for the first senario!!!!!

My church gives casserole meals to families that have surgeries, deaths , and new babies,,,,, hmmmm after paying out of the waaazooo for surgery I could use a free casserole meal :)

TO help pay for this I will be selling some of my stash.... The stuff I purchased in my eailer knitting years.... Koigu, STR, Brooks Farm , Malibrigo, bamboo needles and some addi turbos too... Thanks to my SP10 I have some duplicates...And I LOVE my new Options Set!

No name!

2007-04-23T15:15:00.000-07:00

My best friend came in from California last Wed. and left yesterday..... We had a fun packed schedule that didn't quit! Jenn (aka KnitWit Momma) arrived in style late wed...(both of her flights were delayed, but otherwise all was well)! We went shopping and I took her to Yarntopia to show her off too! We had a "ladies night out" and got hit on by men (we kindly gave them the Left-hand Salute and said, "nice to meet you anyway"!) it was a lot of fun hanging out together again.... Sadly enough we didn't find anytime to dye! Oh well, I guess Mama Llama Secrets will have to stay that way ;) We took a picture together she may have it up her blog soon enough.....

So I know I have a lot of work to do (dyeing, Fifi, and so on) but these things caught my eye:

Butterfly Dress

More Stripes

MMMMM, More Cables!

Fifi Update:The last post left you with the delima of Fifi's pattern flaws.... Well, with Jenn's help at yarntopia the other night I found a way to go on with the pattern and make a center panel that is just as beautiful as the original! I'll give you a hint: lacey cables..... ooooo, ahhhhhh!

SP 10 Strikes

2007-04-14T05:10:00.000-07:00

I did a slide show through Photobucket... but it's not posting it for me yet! so I am testing it out... My SP is awesome!
I have always wanted to try knitpicks Options needles... I got an entire set!
my favotite sock pattern book (so far)......
a book The Friday Night Knitting Club, signed TO ME!.....
and a ton of handpainted yarn ... My weakness! one is evenpart cashmere! I'm thinking lacey kertcheif for that one!
I feel so pampered!

I joined Sockapalooza 4! Maybe I can use some of my sock yarn for my pal? Or Keep it all to myself....hehehehe

Fifi by French Girl Update:Yarn is: Rowan Calmer This cabled summer top is going very well, and the pattern keeps you entertained! but there is a problem! big one! The arms decorative center cable comes out fine(correct).. but in the front and back all the cable patterns are alternated... I contacted the designer (sweetheart!) and she assured me that they are fixing it.... I am going to press ahead and just alter the entire bottom portion to fit my needs....

I would highly recommend this pattern to anyone once the corrections have been made :)

Correct Cabled Pattern

Not Correct Cabled Pattern

Yesterday Pigs Flew

2007-04-11T05:50:00.000-07:00

Some of you are aware that this month is Autism Awareness month..... So far it has been uneventful for our family we're a "keep to yourself" kind of family anyway.... A few remarkable things have been happening lately and yesterday was the most amazing afternoon!

A few weekends ago we went to an all you can eat crawfish boil (from an generous vendor)and I brought Brandon and left Chris and Hillard home.. When I returened Hillard had spelled many words on the chalk board... including Octopus!It was no surprise when his teacher informed us that he can indeed read, and reads alot at school.... but, its hard to realize all of your childs abilities when he refuses to speak verbally with you.....

YESTERDAY!
Hillard communicated with us, was patient with his needs.... And actively played and engaged in actitvites with us and his BROTHER! All on purpose! He wanted to be apart of the family! It was so nice to have an engaging young man around the house last night!

I know not to expect it, it was a fluke, but one fluke I hope he makes a habit of ;)

Time to Knit!

2007-03-28T06:56:00.000-07:00

First off, Thanks for all of you concerns with the boys especially Hillard. Although we have had another bought of the sickness here, we are all well now and things are looking up! Thanks goodness! Now I can finally get my sock club people their packages!!!!!!

You saw my most recent FO in the past post, these are some current works in progress. I have a little helper to model them too!

Colinette Jitterbug! mmmmm yummy!

I made these markers just for this Fifi project; Cute huh?

I didn't want to announce it until I stuck with it for awhile, but I am officially on a diet, oh excuse me "life style change". I am using Sparkpeople.com and this site is a godsend! Chris and I both have healtheir eating habits and we find ourselves entering EVERYTHING we eat in our meal planner. Its TOTALLY FREE!If you decide to do it refer me (user name catherinekerth)I get points for it.

I have taken up Yoga as well, I have never done it until now, and I really like it.... It's very relaxing and I have found a free daily video available through Yogatoday.com. Just download the Instant Media Player and subscribe to their RSS feed and your set! You get a new video everyday to do a yoga class for free! Now I just have to justify getting myself the little knick knacks that you use with yoga... And maybe some "yoga clothes".....

Well, I have posted more often now, next on goal list is to get back in the grove of reading my favorite blogs!
take care

Free Pattern!

2007-03-27T09:44:00.000-07:00

I am making a PDF for this, but wanted to post it quickly for you guys! Happy Spring! Hope you guys can use this for the summer!

Catherine’s Mini Cardi/Shrug

This is a VERY fast knit and can be made in 3 days or less depending on your commitment to it. I suggest 100% silk yarn because it drapes very well, Silk blend yarns will work well also. I do not recommend 100% cotton because it will distort the shape of the cardigan.

This Mini Cardi is meant to be worn like the picture. The “frog clasps” make this top look fabulous and they are a must! They can be found at your local sewing stores.

Needles:
Sz 7 US 24” Circulars;
Sz 8 US 24” circs.
Set of Sz 8 US double point needles
Yarn:
Tilli Tomas (American Beauty) 2 balls
OR any worsted weight silk ; Small 295 yds, Med 310 yds, Large 330 yds, extra Large 350 yds
(Substitutions: Debbie Bliss Pure Silk, Handmaiden, Fleece Artist Sea Silk (doubled), Louisa Harding Grace, Lorna’s Laces Lion and Lamb)
Frog Closures: 3
Black , For neck trim and each arm trim
Tapestry needles
Sewing needle and thread

Gauge: 20 stitches/ 4 inches

Sizes: Measure your upper arm; sm 12”, Med 14”, Large 16”, XL greater than
(I have Sz 15.5” upper arms and 42” bust. I made the Med. It fits a little snug but I prefer it that way.)

Pm-Place marker
Sm- Slip Marker
K- Knit
P-Purl
Yo- Yarn over (increase)

K1P1 Trim Ribbing
Row1: K1, P1 repeat until last stitch you should end on a knit.
Row2: P1, K1 repeat until you come to the last stitch, you will end on a Purl.

Cast on: 81 Stitches (knitted cast on) using your 24”mSz 8 needle. Work back in forth in K1 P1 ribbing for 5 rows.
{Start working your Stockinette Stitch with garter border and place markers using Sz 7 needles on 6th row.}
Place sitich markers: (RS row)P3,k 12, PM, K 10 (arm), PM, k 31 (back), PM, k 10 (arm), PM, K 12, P 3
Ws row: K3 Purl across (sliding markers) until last 3 stitches, K3

Start Increases: Row 1: P3, k12, *yo, sm, k1, yo, k to next marker….. Repeat this increase at each marker. Purl last 3 stitches.
Row 2: K3, *Purl, repeat from *until last three stitches then, K3

Keep repeating these two increase rows until the smaller sections (ragalan section for your arm) reach…. Sm (58 stitches) Med. (62stitches) Lg. (66 stitches) XL (70)

Try on! Slip waste yarn through your stitches… Make sure to separate the raglan arms with their own waste yarns (tip: make sure your waste yarn is the size of your upper arm or larger to ensure fitting)

Does it fit? Remember you will do a K1 P1 in a larger needle to finish up the trim so it will have a little more room…..

If you are happy with the fit go ahead and keep the arm stitches in their separate waste yarns and return the front and back to the Sz 8 needle to begin the “K1 P1 Trim ribbing”. (joining the front and back at the sides)
K1 P1 for 4 Rows and Bind off on your 5th row keeping in pattern! Please Bind off Loosely!

Return the arm stitches to your Sz 8 Double pointed Needles to prepare for the Trim Ribbing. You will be working back and forth. Place them on your double pointed needles with the half split facing out instead of underneath your underarm (like it is now). Work back and forth in K1P1 ribbing for 4 rows then bind off on your 5th row in pattern. VERY LOOSELY!

Sew your frog closures on! Follow the directions on the packaging.

Lightly block

Questions? Please contact me catherinekerth@hotmail.com , please put “cropped cardi” as the subject…..
For personal use only, do not copy or sell with out permission

Long Time No Post!

2007-03-21T05:26:00.000-07:00

I'm still here, and alive! I have been a MAJOR slacker in the blogging world and I think I have joined a pick me up! SP10! I have a questionaire to fill out for my pal so here it goes:
The Questionnaire

1. What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with? What fibers do you absolutely *not* like?
I love all yarns, even the dreaded "acrylic/belnd"! I am a big fan of silk blends and anything that is super soft! I live in the south so I try to get fibers that won't be too warm...

2. What do you use to store your needles/hooks in? I have a trusty of make up bag that I put EVERYTHING in and its bustin' at the seems! Would love something to organize my circs!

3. How long have you been knitting & how did you learn? Would you consider your skill level to be beginner, intermediate or advanced?
I have been knitting over 2 yrs.... I am self taught, and as far as my skill level goes, not sure... I teach about 5 different classes at my local yarn store, so I know a lot of tecniques, its just I lack in the length of using those techniques.

4. Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list?yes, but it's never updated... sorry :(

5. What's your favorite scent? Lavender!!!!!!

6. Do you have a sweet tooth? Favorite candy? Yes, I love those boxes of chocolates! but its summer time so I suggest you send candy for the hubby.... it won't melt! his fav. is starburst jelly beans and strawberry twislers... ;)

7. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do? Do you spin? I am a dyer, and I am a beader as well. Love all my hobbies a little too much!

8. What kind of music do you like? Can your computer/stereo play MP3s? (if your buddy wants to make you a CD) I like punk, and alternative music

9. What's your favorite color(s)? Any colors you just can't stand? I love all colors! (i am begining to love the neons now too! but I would never wear those! )ewwww.

10. What is your family situation? Do you have any pets? just me and three guys! 2yr old, 6 yr old and a 30 yr old ;)

11. Do you wear scarves, hats, mittens or ponchos? summer scarves ( light sild or cotton blends)

12. What is/are your favorite item/s to knit? SOCKS!!!!!!!!!!!!! they never let me down! Lace!!!!!!!!!! It's fun!

13. What are you knitting right now? a tilli tomas cropped cardi.... my own raglan pattern

14. Do you like to receive handmade gifts? Who doesn't?!!!! I would LOVE a hand made gift!

15. Do you prefer straight or circular needles? Bamboo, aluminum, plastic? Addi turbos!!!! ummmm, I would like to try those option needles too.....

16. Do you own a yarn winder and/or swift? yup

17. How old is your oldest UFO? 2 yrs...

18. What is your favorite holiday? halloween

19. Is there anything that you collect? other than yarn? candles.....

20. Any books, yarns, needles or patterns out there you are dying to get your hands on? What knitting magazine subscriptions do you have? the new lace style and interweave sock books!!!!!!!!!

21. Are there any new techniques you'd like to learn? nope... i'm set ;)

22. Are you a sock knitter? What are your foot measurements? I wers a ladies Sz 7.... 8 circum. and 9 length

23. When is your birthday? 2/4/1974

Priorities

2007-03-05T21:14:00.000-08:00

You may wonder.... What the heck happened to Catherine? Well, I've been a busy beaver and something had to give... Blogging was it! and reading my fav. blogs too :(

I am worried.... Hillard is ill, and has been for two weeks.... I think the culprit can only be rotavirus.....Its the stangest thing; Hillard will be extremely ill, then seem to get better for a day and then he is back down with vomitting, diarreha, and fever. Brandon had it, and I had a touch of it before we left to go to Las Vegas.... Chris was queasy on our romantic get away.... But we are all very well and feel great....

Poor Hillard is the one that seems stricken with it constantly.... I really thought we had beaten it this time and he went to school today....He came home lethargic and the teacher called to tell me that he had been "going down hill" since afternoon snack.... He had no appetite and was laying in his bed until it was time to go to sleep... Then ol' failthful puked his poor little guts out :(
Damnit! Atleast he isn't in the hospital for it... It could be worse right?

I have been dyeing like a mad woman lately and I am looking forward to a little break soon..... I have the yarn to do Fifi, by French Girl and it should make a wonderful summer top! I'll swatch this week (when I find the time)

Any encouraging advice about Hillards illness?

Woo Hoo!

2007-02-06T07:52:00.000-08:00

Did anyone see the Spring/Summer addition of Knit It yet? Go Look on page 11! I got an email yesterday afternoon from Kpixie informing me. We were so excited we kept emailing each other back and forth.... Wow, I'm in a magazine... It's the small things in life that entertain me...bright shiny objects too ;)

I have a pattern for you guys! trust me its EASY! I made a baby blanket for my friend that had her baby last weekend.

I used Sz 11 needles and Doubled Dreambaby DK from Plymouth. (6 balls)
Cast on 121 stitches
every row: K1,P1

I suggest changing balls on the ends (I learned that the hard way)if not weaving in your ends may look a little inconsistant.

This blanket is 19x36... I would suggest casting on less stitches (101) if you want the blanket more porportionate.

I submitted a cute pattern to Knitty, if they don't take it then I will do a PDF for you guys ;)

Needle Exchange:
I will continue sign ups until Saturday (2/10/07) night then they are closed. Please email me to sign up!

I know, I know! I need to keep up with my favorite blogs....

Most Embarrassing Moment?

2007-01-31T20:33:00.000-08:00

Set the stage: I've been teaching a private class for a couple of months now. These ladies are fantastic! They bring wine and treats ;we have a ton of fun!

I went to teach my private class tonight and the ladies that usually attend were acting very strangely! I wondered what was going on... They started to giggle and talked about a surprise......One of the ladies brought cupcakes, and another brought a gift! I was flabbergasted and flattered, but it wasn't for me! I was certainly surprised when they said happy Birthday Sheryl (one of the owners of Yarntopia). I was so horrified; how embarrassing. I played it off, but I could feel that my face was burning red! I turned and and shook Sheryls hand to tell her Happy Birthday. I asked when it was and told her and the ladies mine was the day after. Of course non of them had known and I think I might of made the entire occassion a little awkward for a few seconds. Then I felt bad that I had announced my birthday... WOW talk about stealing thunder! That was not my intention, and I don't think it was taken that way. Anyhow, I was embarrassed and I will think twice before thinking everything is about me! ;)

Happy Birthday Sheryl!

Please share your most embarrassing moment!

"That Damn Baby Blanket" is almost done, my friend called today and told me she had the baby on Saturday! yeah! The blanket is officially late. :( When I finish it up I will post a Pic and the pattern. Then get started on those beautiful lace scarves that I have planned!

Of course ya'll aren't gettin outta this post without some eye candy! 365yds merino/tencel... Berkley is my favorite out of this bunch. It looks fantastic reskeined too.

And go look I'm on Kpixie too!

Winner! Sarah you won the drawing! I will contact you for your address soon ;)

Wishful Thinking

2007-01-14T18:31:00.000-08:00

I finally cashed in my Christmas yarn Gift Cert.'s and these are my pretties... Wanna know what they will become?

Left to right:
Silk Wool/ Purple- Victorian Lace Today a tweedy looking scarf that originally used Habu, fingering.... but I am going to kick it up a notch with DK wieght and a larger needle size! This puppy is gonna be HUGE!

Silky Tweed /Pink- Caryl's Kertcheif; Been dying to make this... but instead of using Koigu (fingering) I am going to use DK wieght and a larger needle.... wish me luck on this one!

Tilli Tomas /American Beauty (red)- This will become the Thinking of You Scarf by Heatstrings..... LOVE this scarf! I sell it in the store, if you want to do a KAL with me I am starting it in Feb.

Alpaca Silk/ Blue- Is this stuff yummy or what?! I will be doing a scarf from Victorian Lace Today in this yarn. I think it will turn out Beautifully.....

Have we noticed I have backed off on socks? Oh the Horror! You know I am going to miss them by the second shawl, right?
Well, I am still morally against making garments right now, and lace shawls don't count ;)

You still have time to enter the contest; look at the previous post for more info!

Announcement:Due to Popular demand I will be bringing back "Gimme Some Needles" Exchange. Please contact my email catherinekerthAThotmailDOTcom to enter... Please put Needle Exchange in the subject so I know its not jusnk ;) Sign ups end feb. 4th My B-day!
Rules: $ Amount will not exceed 20 nor should you go less than $15 and this does not include shipping. Yarn and patterns are encouragedand Needles are mandatory as gifties.... When I set up a sperate blog You will be notified immediately!

Hello? Anyone There?

2007-01-02T05:54:00.000-08:00

This is me at my blogging worst! I have not posted in awhile, nor have I kept up with any of my bloglines. I am ashamed and humbled, and my only excuse is pure lack of time during the rush of the holiday season! Do you forgive me? I am more embarrassed of the fact that I haven't kept up with any of my favorite reads! New years resolution? Keep up with my Blog Buddies Better!

I had received some lovely seasons greetings cards from several of you, Wendy, Audrey, Brynne, and Jennifer (Nyxxie) to name a few.... I on the other hand didn't send out any holiday cards this year, nor last year... Actually I haven't sent out Christmas cards since Hillard was born.... Maybe I need to make a Resolution to be more aware that people might like to get a card for the holidays from the Kerth family?

I knitted a few gifts for the holidays, and only got a few pictures in the rush of things.....

A fancy washcloth by Fiber Trends. and A shwalette with beads

A kertchief, using the sock yarn I got from my swap pal Cherryl.... Thanks ;) Look there are beads at the end!

The Victorian Lace Book I bought for myself! And look what came in the mail that same day; a hand knitted bookmark from Audrey! It really is cute and was the perfect holiday gift, I used it immediately....

I have 6 weeks to get two baby blankets done... Think I can do it ladies? Got any quicky patterns to suggest?

Great parenting news! We took Hillard and Brandon to the zoo for Hillards 6th birthday.... And Hillard walked next to us the entire time! I never thought this day would come! He didn't have to hide away in the stroller! Of course he tried to wonder off a few times... but we would lead him back to us with gentle encouragement... Can you beleive it? We are so excited.... Now we just have to get him noise eliminating ear muffs and lots of Public apprence practice ;)

Business is doing well, I have to admit I thought the Holiday Season would be slow, but I got 3 big orders the Friday my kids got out of school for the Christmas break! I freaked for about 2 mins.... then got my stuff together and I've been working my tail off. Here is a pic of one of the orders... Its 100% Merino Jagger Spun Lace... I enjoyed working with it and I think it turned out beautifully....

I sent more Self Striping to Pickupsticks.ca ; AND start looking for Mama Llama Yarns on Kpixie.com soon ;)

Contest! New Years eve marked my two year anniversary of knitting! Yep thats right I taught myself on new years eve two years ago! Just answer these questions by looking at the history of my blog to be entered to win your choice of either Mama Llama Yarn, or some STR from my stash... Up to you ;)
1. What was the first project posted?
2. What was my first sweater?
3. Name something that I have made for my husband ,Chris.

4. Bonus, Who is my very best friend.... and do you know her blog? If you answer this I will give you an extra prize!
Okay LB answered them correctly so she is getting some goods ;)
The rest of ya, tell me what months these 3 items were made and I will add you to a drawing for more prizes! Happy New Year!Ya'll take care.... And I will be back to reading your posts next week ;)

Almost Famous!

2006-12-04T18:37:00.000-08:00

I have enjoyed many gifts so far this holiday season.... I have received many tidings of Joy, Peace and Happiness.... gifts too! My camera is on the fritz so please bear with me ;)

I got a Package from Nora at Black Dog Knits! She made me the cutest stitch markers!I can't beleive that she paid 8 bucks to ship them... Thanks Nora... They are being used as we speak!
(Pic here coming soon)

I got an AWESOME package from Cherryl! She sent Coffee, Chocolate, Sock yarn (handpainted, striping & Jager), Sock patterns, a cute Christmas deer tin, and a lovely pin for my shawls! The chocolate didn't last long in this family so it won't be seen in the pic... maybe just the box ;)
(pic here coming soon)

I have to get on a "soap" box right now! AWESOME body goods! go to www.knittingnyxxie.etsy.com GO RIGHT NOW! Her stuff is so useful and I can't live with out the mint julip lip balm..... And my kids go insane for her animal soaps! I I don't think I will ever shop for lip balm and animal soaps anywhere else now ;)
(Pic coming soon)

Mama Llama is available in Canada! AND I have an "official logo"

Did you see? Go here! Thats me and my self striping yarn! I am filling up my store this week with different colorways.... I am busting my butt to get more variety out there! Phewwww!
here are some pics I have saved on the computer of the Canada shipment... enjoy....

Thanks you guys... have an awesome week! I'll update with pictures ASAP ;)

My DH made me do it!

2006-11-25T19:10:00.000-08:00

Chris asked if I had blogged recently and I replied,"nope":( So with his funny antics of "encouragemant" you guys now have a post from the totally stressed out Catherine!

Its been a really hard week.

First I go to the dentist to get some crowns put on my back molars and WHAM they hit nerves on both of them... A $800 visit turns into a special trip to an endodontist for two root canals! I think I am the only person on earth who brushes their teeth twice daily, flosses and puts extra flouride on at night and still has terrible luck!

Blah, Blah Blah! Don't get me wrong Thanksgiving was a treat! BUT, during the meal I began to feel ill. Chris,Hillard and Brandon were sick with the stomach bug the weekend before holiday week, and I thought I had scathed by without catching it...WRONG! Not only did I miss the best desserts my family has to offer, my meal came out faster than it went in later that night.
(sorry for not sparing the gore)

Chris and I have realized that its imparitive that Hillard attends school on a regular basis. He has been soooo out of it this week, its really upsetting.... It just feels like were losing him again.. Its the worst feeling in the world... Although on a happy note: I spied Brandon and Hillard "sort of" playing together today...AND Brandon asked to go to the potty!!!!! Brandon is going to get the hang of it before Hillard does...

Chris has decieded after spending this holiday break at home with us that;
he has changed his mind about retiring young when we win the lottery, he will continue work!.... That rascal! ;)

So lets break my week down:
1. I'm in finacial ruin because I still have my aching teeth......
2. Thanksgiving SUCKED!!!!!!!
3. My son is a basket case b/c he depends on the restrictions of school to survive.....
4. And my husband WANTS to work if he is filthy rich to get away from us, can ya blame the poor guy after a week like this? (hehehe).....

Have a good week ya'll ;)

Post something else!

2006-11-17T23:20:00.000-08:00

okay, brief discription of pics..... Self Striping yarn.. imagine if you will ;)
Plumeria
Orchid
Panama Purple
Fall Leaves (minus the green)There are so many colors in the varigated I had to limit the colors for self striping.... bye bye green!

I had an order from a retail store in Canada and she wanted all self striping yarn.... It was a lot of fun, and kept me really busy. Christmas knitting !!! ACK, who has the time?

	Monkey
	Plain 3x1 rib
	Straight-Laced