My High Plains Life

Episode 60: Spinning On and On

noreply@blogger.com (Dani Girl in CO) — Tue, 02 Feb 2021 23:18:00 +0000

Welcome viewers! Glad to have you all back. Hello new viewers. Don't forget to subscribe to be updated on new posts, and join our group on Ravelry.

I am DaniGirlCO on Instagram and Ravelry. Come and follow along.
Here are the show notes for Episode 60:

On the Needles:
Knitting Projects -
FO's:
Swirl E. Socks for my niece.

1898 Hat for Brian, with adaptations. Started in light grey but not enough contrast, so ripped back and used new dark grey Woolstok.

WIPs:

Walk on the Moon going in slow and steady. I'm liking the stitch pattern right now.

Stalking: simple hat patterns to use my new pom. Also, might I suggest Shilo Weir's new pattern, Tide and Pebble hat.

Acquisitions - Colorful Eclectic, pom, purple sparkle, Woolstok

Spinning Projects - Greenwood Fiberworks BFL/nylon 3-ply intended for socks. Like the marled, it really turned out unexpected. Also, dang on dividing into thirds and spinning singles.

Brown alpaca and white wool 2-ply to clear my plying flyer.

Under the Needle:
Sewing Projects -

PPQG had our first meeting of the year, where one of our own members spoke. So fun.

Block Heads 3 by Moda finished with 42 total blocks. Added sashing and borders, ready to sandwich and quilt.

Doing the APQ UFO Challenge for 2021 in hopes of finishing off things that have been languishing for YEARS. Jan was project #7, which I pulled out and planned a way forward, but did not finish before end of month. Feb is #2, which is the BH3, so I'm going to work on quilting the BH3 and finishing my #7.

I've ordered a Janome 8200QCPSE! Everything is slowed down, so probably won't ship until later this month. I'm not good at waiting.

Plan to Quilt planner by Shannon Gilman Orr at Eva Blakes Makery. My inner geek is so happy.

Beading some cute hearts and lambs. Need to find a marketing strategy so I can actually sell some.

On Paper:

Christmas cards turned out great, I think, so I made a few Valentine's Day cards for nearby senior center.

In the Garden: Seed planning! Need to get out and move some dirt when we get some nice days.

In the Beeyard - n/a

Off Topic:
Watching/Listening: So excited for Resident Alien on SyFy. Hope it doesn't disappoint.

Craftsy membership for ridiculous price. Do it.

Thanks for watching!

Episode 59: Goodbye to 2020

noreply@blogger.com (Dani Girl in CO) — Fri, 01 Jan 2021 02:44:00 +0000

Welcome viewers! Glad to have you all back. Hello new viewers. Don't forget to subscribe to be updated on new posts, and join our group on Ravelry.

I am DaniGirlCO on Instagram and Ravelry. Come and follow along.
Here are the show notes for Episode 59:

On the Needles:
Knitting Projects -
FO's:

WIPs:
Swirl E. Socks for my niece. Took the heel setup out and am just going to do an afterthought heel.
Blueberry Waffle socks no longer for Brian. Heel doesn't fit over his foot, even with a 72 stitch count. Maybe for his dad?

Walk on the Moon going in fits and starts, although there's plenty of dog hair knitted in. Did a cool little no turn, work right side row twice thing.

Stalking: patterns that use Advent mini skeins

Acquisitions - $120 gift card at Ewe & Me, so shopping in the new year is on!

Spinning Projects -

Under the Needle:
Sewing Projects - PPQG learning how to do things via Zoom. I volunteered to do Membership again this year. Hoping somebody wants to help out. Hoping we can meet in person again.

Block Heads 3 by Moda, a new block every week.
Earth, Wind, Fire and Time - top, with borders, complete, back pieced, need to find a longarmer and pick quilting design.

Hexis - am I done with one block? started flower hexis in small batches.

Doing the APQ UFO Challenge for 2021 in hopes of finishing off things that have been languishing for YEARS.
Looking to purchase a new sewing machine. My Viking Interlude 435 is 16 years old and I'm jealous of my mom's with all the bells and whistles. Want something with more throat space, but under $2000. No embroidery, just quilting. Top of list is a Janome.

On Paper:

Visited my MIL at a crop retreat and had so much fun. It inspired me to go through my scrapbooking and card making supplies. I sorted and organized, and made sure everything had it's own place. Had so much fun organizing I went through some of my knitting things and sorted them out too. Sorted shelves of books and magazines. Bag for Goodwill when I can.

Decided to make Christmas cards this year. I haven't sent out cards in years, and this year I decided to make them, too. Joy in the process.

In the Garden: n/a

In the Beeyard - n/a

Off Topic:
Watching/Listening: Vlogmas from some of my favorite podcasts; Stitching the High Notes, Corner of Craft, Stranded, Suburban Stitcher. Board games with family - Sequence and Rummikube.

I was #1 seed going into winners bracket in Fantasy Football, and got knocked out immediately. Josh Allen is continuing to play well and it's just so good to see someone from my school doing well. You know, not from the SEC.

Craftsy membership for ridiculous price. Do it.

Purchased New Year's Eve dinner from local restaurant. Have sparking wine chilling and will be in bed by 9.

Thanks for watching!

Episode 58: COVID-19 Sucks

noreply@blogger.com (Dani Girl in CO) — Fri, 09 Oct 2020 20:40:00 +0000

Welcome viewers! Glad to have you all back. Hello new viewers. Don't forget to subscribe to be updated on new posts, and join our group on Ravelry.

I am DaniGirlCO on Instagram and Ravelry. Come and follow along.
Here are the show notes for Episode 58:

On the Needles:
Knitting Projects -
FO's:
Summer Sanctuary is finished. Ends woven, washed and blocked.

Charity Hat #2. Child or small woman.

WIPs:
Swirl E. Socks for my niece. Took the heel setup out and am just going to do an afterthought heel.
Blueberry Waffle socks for Brian. Using Lollipop Yarn self-striping in Blue My Mind. Love it, but wound in ball so can only knit one at a time.
Prayer Shawl #6 is on the hook.

Walk on the Moon started the third color. Rows are getting looooong.

Stalking:

Acquisitions - Hue Loco Fall 2018 colors. Still looking for Moss. Kit for a Bronco's hat, saving for the DCS Pigskin Party.

Spinning Projects -

Under the Needle:
Sewing Projects - One quilt guild holding meetings, the other one not.
Block Heads 3 by Moda, a new block every week.
Face masks for the family. Trying different patterns.

Beading more stitch markers. Fall tree, fruit.

In the Garden: perennials from High Country Gardens were hit and miss, still have areas to fill in. Reminding people that it's xeriscape, NOT xeriscape. Didn't pick hops this year, but they did do well. Planted strawberries and some herbs, and didn't get to harvest all the basil before the 1st freeze. Yes, we had snow in mid September. Fires in Colorado have left smoky skies for the last month so it's hard to work in the yard right now. I've been watching some online courses through the CSU Extension Master Gardeners program and really enjoyed it.

In the Beeyard - n/a

Off Topic:
Watching/Listening: Brian's been riding his new bike almost every week. After 3 years, I finally replaced my battery and got my bike running. Love the feeling of accomplishment (capable) of doing the work myself. Depression is a sneaky bitch though, because I cried on my first ride and can't believe I've let this go for so long. Have enjoyed watching football again and of course I'm doing Fantasy Football. Josh Allen is making me points. Go WYO!

Thanks for watching!

Episode 57: Pinky and the Brain

noreply@blogger.com (Dani Girl in CO) — Sat, 30 May 2020 20:38:00 +0000

Welcome viewers! Glad to have you all back. Hello new viewers. Don't forget to subscribe to be updated on new posts, and join our group on Ravelry.
I am DaniGirlCO on Instagram and Ravelry. Come and follow along.
Here are the show notes for Episode 57:

On the Needles:
Knitting Projects -
FO's:

WIPs:
Swirl E. Socks for my niece. Took the heel setup out and am just going to do an afterthought heel.

Summer Sanctuary is on the border band. Might be shorter than I thought.

Walk on the Moon About ready to start the third color.

Stalking:

Acquisitions - Fabric for face masks

Spinning Projects -Braid from 100th Sheep in Violet Headed Hummingbird that I 3-plied. About 398 yds.

Under the Needle:
Sewing Projects -
Block Heads 3 by Moda, a new block every week. Borders on the red/green quilt.
Face masks for the family. Using pattern from Frontline Masks.
Hand piecing EPP hexis. Long term project.

Beading more stitch markers, paw prints and badgers.

In the Garden: Spring cleanup done. First round of weeds pulled, but it's like Pinky and the Brain. Ordered new perennials from High Country Gardens that should come this week. Fill in with plants from Harding Nursery. Harvested rhubarb twice already.

In the Beeyard - I think I caught a swarm??? Girls are building comb and making honey, but there is no brood, larvae, eggs, or queen sighting. No clue. They aren't robbing it out, it was empty. Now there's honey. So confused!

Off Topic: Tired of this pandemic crap.
Watching/Listening: Itchy Boots about a woman riding an adventure bike around the world. Soooooo, Brian bought a new bike! It's a Honda Africa Twin DCT and it's pretty neat. Off-road here we come!

Thanks for watching!

Episode 56: Same As It's Always Been

noreply@blogger.com (Dani Girl in CO) — Fri, 10 Apr 2020 02:11:00 +0000

On the Needles:
Knitting Projects -
FO's:

Prayer Shawl #5 in Lion Brand Homespun on K hook.

WIPs:
1898 Hat with modifications for Brian. Doing a Latvian braid and plaid pattern, but he requested "ear flaps."

Swirl E. Socks for my niece. Stalled out on the heel. Cat Bordhi's Sweet Tomato Heel.

Summer Sanctuary I picked it up again.

Walk on the Moon that I started for Nashville trip. Yarn is a dream.

Charity Hat #2. Using donated bulky yarn that's just sooooo smooshy. Improvising Breckle pattern for the top, designed by my friend Shilo.

Dragon No. 34 by Shibui Knits. Ready to cast on.

Stalking:

Acquisitions - Hedgehog Fibers alpaca boucle and Smooshy for a cowl.

Spinning Projects - A wool, silk plied together to clean up singles that have been sitting around forever. Bled like a head wound when soaking, and I know I dyed at least the silk.
Braid from 100th Sheep in Violet Headed Hummingbird that I've divided in thirds. Singles are spun, now on to the plying. Traditional 3-ply.

Under the Needle:
Sewing Projects -
Block Heads 3 by Moda, a new block every week.
Quilting workshop in Feb with MJ Kinman about quilting gems, facets, and light. Intend to finish block I made and use for quilting practice.

Beading more stitch markers, shamrocks and koalas. Thanks to BeadCrumbsHawaii for the pattern.

In the Garden:

In the Beeyard -

Off Topic: Croatia is OFF! Other than cancelled trip and hubby working from home, life is pretty much same as it's always been. A few more board games, pulled out the puzzles. we've been sitting around the fire pit in the evenings when the weather is nice. More of those nights, although it's forecast to snow on Sunday. Been sleeping a bit more, but surprisingly depression hasn't worsened.
Watching/Listening: Lincoln Rhymes: Hunt for the Bone Collector. Zooming with the knit ladies. Not the best, but getting to see the ones who've moved away is nice.

Thanks for watching!

Episode 55: Catching Up

noreply@blogger.com (Dani Girl in CO) — Thu, 23 Jan 2020 22:57:00 +0000

On the Needles:
Knitting Projects -
FO's:
Syncopation Socks. Socks for Brian.

Quick Ombre Hat in Merino/Alpaca for Brian or his dad. This thing is WARM. Knit up so quick.

2019 Christmas Socks for me. Yarn by Holly Press Fibers in Christmas Blizzard. Knitting for the Stranded Dyeworks Festive Sock-a-long.

Magical Thinking by Casapinka. Love it. Yarn, pattern, stitches. I made the large size, but I could have even made it bigger and been happy.

WIPs:
Prayer Shawl #5 in Lion Brand Homespun on K hook.

1898 Hat with modifications for Brian. Doing a latvian braid and plaid pattern, but he requested "ear flaps."

Swirl E. Socks for my niece. She asked and how could I say no?

Stalking: winter hats

Acquisitions - sock yarn because the nieces have made requests

Spinning Projects - "A Cornfield" art batt from Spinning Mermaid Fibers. Plied the singles with coordinating threads.
Dark brown alpaca, undyed unknown fiber, trying to clear off my bobbins.
Blue singles plied together

Under the Needle:
Sewing Projects -
Project bags for some friends.
Block Heads 3 by Moda, a new block every week.
Beading more stitch markers, winter and holiday themes.

In the Garden:

In the Beeyard -

Off Topic: Traveled to Vegas for a wedding. Hosted the knit group Holiday party. Phoenix for Christmas, Nashville just because, and Croatia is ON! Bought a treadmill and have been cleaning out the basement. We need our recycling to come every week vs every other.
Watching/Listening: Prodigal Son

Thanks for watching!

Episode 54: When Did Fall Happen?

noreply@blogger.com (Dani Girl in CO) — Sat, 05 Oct 2019 00:23:00 +0000

On the Needles:
Knitting Projects -
FO's:
Agleam by Lisa Mutch for Camp Loopy August project. Ended up buying and using a full 3rd skein and I like the size better.

WIPs:
Syncopation Socks. Using Andromeda sock yarn in Smoke to make socks for Brian.

Magical Thinking by Casapinka. Loving it. Yarn, pattern, stitches.
Stalking: summer weight cardigans

Summer Sanctuary by Sarah Gresbach. Cotton/linen blend by Cascade Yarns Hampton.

Prayer Shawl #5 in Lion Brand Homespun on K hook.

Acquisitions - Salida Fiber Festival haul

Spinning Projects - "A Cornfield" art batt from Spinning Mermaid Fibers. Spun the singles and I'm going to ply with a coordinating thread.

Under the Needle:
Sewing Projects - 2 blocks for the Quilts for Valor BOM
Needle book I mentioned last time. Workshop about the Mariner's Compass block. Project bags for some friends.
Beading more stitch markers, still having fun, need to decide what to do with them.

In the Garden: Had the tree professionally trimmed. Can't believe it's already time for fall cleanup.

In the Beeyard - They went from alive to dead. Pulled the equipment and getting all cleaned up. Takes a lot more time than I think it will. Made a solar wax melter and am cycling through the bucket of goop.

Off Topic: Countertops fixed, tile picked, now just waiting on installer for backsplash.
Watching/Listening: I Thought I Knew How, follows the Master Knitter program.

Thanks for watching!

Episode 53: Summer Time, and the Living is . . . Easy?

noreply@blogger.com (Dani Girl in CO) — Thu, 18 Jul 2019 23:44:00 +0000

On the Needles:
Knitting Projects -
FO's:
Prayer Shawl #4. Unknown green acrylic yarn. Crocheted.

Mini Mochi Fair Isle Hat by Sandi Rosner. This is my first fair isle project. Blocking definitely helped the fit.

Expeditiously for Spring. Loopy Ewe Space Camp June project. Yarn is as gorgeous as the photo.

WIPs:
Syncopation Socks. Using Andromeda sock yarn in Smoke to make socks for Brian.

Magical Thinking by Casapinka. Loving it. Yarn, pattern, stitches.
Stalking: summer weight cardigans

Summer Sanctuary by Sarah Gresbach. Cotton/linen blend by Cascade Yarns Hampton.

Acquisitions - Estes Park Wool Market haul

Spinning Projects - Merino/silk blend I received as part of the holiday swap. Yellow/blue/brown combo that I tried not to muddy. About 306 yds.
Alpaca 2-ply

Under the Needle:
Sewing Projects -
Finished binding on my pineapple table runner. Sandwiched 2 other small projects ready for quilting.
Made a needle book and I love it.

In the Garden: Snow storm on May 21st really took a toll on the tree. Salvia, delphinium, catmint, penstemon are all blooming. Clematis climbing, blooming, but looks off.

In the Beeyard - They're alive and working my flowers hard.

Off Topic: finished repainting interior, new appliances (with issues), countertops. Need to pick a backsplash we both like that will work.
Watching/Listening: Crafty Hive podcast
Response to Ravelry's new gag order policy.

Thanks for watching!

Statement Regarding Ravelry's New Gag Order Policy

noreply@blogger.com (Dani Girl in CO) — Sun, 23 Jun 2019 22:43:00 +0000

I try to keep politics out of my crafting, but recently Ravelry has made a statement I feel must be addressed.

"Support of the Trump administration is unambiguously and undeniably support for white supremacy." - Ravelry administration

No.

You cannot make this a blanket statement. It is NOT a fact. Yes, there are prejudiced people who support President Trump, just as there are hateful people who don't. Continue to ban hate speech as identified by the courts. Supporting the democratically elected President DOES NOT make me a white supremacist. Ravelry is promoting hate speech and prejudice by saying this. They state they are not banning Republicans, but they are discriminating by putting a gag on our speech. I am incredibly saddened and disappointed that Ravelry has become so politicized, because it is a useful crafting website. Ravelry has now created a hostile environment for conservatives.

I will continue to use Ravelry, as it has the market cornered for the crafting community. I hope they realize their knee jerk reaction to an isolated event was extreme and discriminated against other users, and recall their gag order policy accordingly.

Episode 52: Bomb Cyclones

noreply@blogger.com (Dani Girl in CO) — Wed, 01 May 2019 14:40:00 +0000

On the Needles:
Knitting Projects -
FO's:

WIPs:
2018 Stephen West MKAL. Picked it back up and have been making progress. Finished clue 3, although I shortened it a bit. Finished clue 4 but haven't bound off. Loving it again.

Christmas stripey socks. Using my precious Gynx yarn in the Naughty or Nice color way. Inserted afterthought heels so I could try on better to gauge calf increases needed.

Syncopation Socks. Using Andromeda sock yarn in Smoke to make socks for Brian.

Prayer Shawl #4. Unknown green acrylic yarn. Crocheting this time.

Mini Mochi Fair Isle Hat by Sandi Rosner. This is my first fair isle project. Getting ready to do the decreases in pattern.

Stalking: Magical Thinking by Casapinka. Felted slippers.

Acquisitions - Beads and findings to making MORE beaded stitch markers/progress keepers. Local Yarn Store Day haul.

Spinning Projects - Merino/silk blend I received as part of the holiday swap. Yellow/blue/brown combo that I tried not to muddy.

Under the Needle:
Sewing Projects - Lily Pad workshop with Beth Lindquist. Stitched top together using twosie-foursie method and I really like it. Added borders, pulled fabric from stash to create backing.
Finished hand quilting my pineapple table runner. Trimmed it up and it's ready for the binding.
Obsessed with making a needle book now. Looked up tutorials, picked fabric, just need to decide on the size.

In the Garden: spring cleanup, trimming perennials, putting wool out for the birds to make nests. We've had two "bomb cyclones" which pretty much closed everything down for a few days, and it snowed again last night. I don't mind.

In the Beeyard - n/a

Off Topic: Was thinking of getting new countertops and a backsplash for kitchen already, then the microwave broke and decided to get all new appliances. Was already planning on repainting interior, will be scheduled soon. So there's all that.
Watching/Listening:

Thanks for watching!

Episode 51: My Own Army of Minions

noreply@blogger.com (Dani Girl in CO) — Tue, 12 Mar 2019 21:25:00 +0000

On the Needles:
Knitting Projects -
FO's:
Etched Rio Wrap. Need to wrap it up and put in the mail for mom.

Runa by Gudrun Johnston. Finished the hood, using the bias bind off and overcast stitch to seam. Wish there were more specific photos in the project pages. Picked up for the button band and did ribbing. Now I am crying over TWO horrible mistakes I made.

WIPs:
Christmas stripey socks. Using my precious Gynx yarn in the Naughty or Nice color way.

Prayer Shawl #4. Unknown green acrylic yarn. Crocheting this time.

Mini Mochi Fair Isle Hat by Sandi Rosner. This is my first fair isle project, but don't get to practice catching floats because there's never more than 2 stitches one color in a row.

Stalking:

Acquisitions - Beads and findings. Hannah of Corner of Craft is an evil enabler. Followed her tutorials and now I'm addicted to making beaded stitch markers/progress keepers.

Spinning Projects - Registered for Twist workshop with Maggie Casey at Estes Park Wool Market in June.

Under the Needle:
Sewing Projects - Lily Pad workshop with Beth Lindquist. Started with a lap size, ended up with a queen. Layed out on design board waiting for the rows to be sewn together.

Finished organizing my fabrics by type/color.

In the Garden: n/a

In the Beeyard - n/a

Off Topic: How much of an inventory should one have when opening an Etsy shop? Advice?
Watching/Listening: Hannah with the Corner of Craft podcast, Chromatic Yarns.

Thanks for watching!

Episode 50: A New Year

noreply@blogger.com (Dani Girl in CO) — Mon, 14 Jan 2019 21:59:00 +0000

On the Needles:
Knitting Projects -
FO's: n/a

WIPs:
Christmas stripey socks. Using my precious Gynx yarn in the Naughty or Nice color way.

Etched Rio Wrap for mom. Using Plymouth yarns Estilo, and it's really lovely.

Prayer Shawl #4. Unknown green acrylic yarn. Crocheting this time.

Stalking: Stranded color work hats.

Acquisitions - Project bag

Spinning Projects - some undyed alpaca roving on the Lendrum. Silk mawatas on spindle dad made me.

Under the Needle:
Sewing Projects - Made quite a few project bags, mostly Christmas fabrics. At least one will be a present for gift swap. Sewed in thread catcher and I LOVE it.
Worked with my mom to make quilt for my sister. Love how it turned out and it's already out for quilting.

Organizing my fabrics by type/color. About halfway through. Yes, I know I'm a nerd.

In the Garden: n/a

In the Beeyard - n/a

Off Topic: Needed some down time after the holidays. Trying to return to/establish routine because I believe in "begin as you mean to continue." Not into resolutions because I feel it just sets me up for failure, and everyday is a new day to start something, but I do feel like this is a good time to reflect on past year, look forward to future.
Watching/Listening: Football season is almost over, it's down to the playoffs. Nicole of Hue Loco. I love her attitude of helping/enabling others to expand their crafting.

Thanks for watching!

Episode 49: Vlogmas? Vlogmas!

noreply@blogger.com (Dani Girl in CO) — Tue, 11 Dec 2018 20:37:00 +0000

On the Needles:
Knitting Projects -
FO's:
Vanilla socks are finished, and the same size.

Prayer shawl #3 is done, and I used almost all the yarn.

Evolution shawl. It only took FOUR YEARS. Almost to the day.

Wash clothes for mom. She actually made a request, so of course I had to knit some.

WIPs:
2018 Stephen West MKAL. STILL on clue 3.

Christmas stripey socks. Using my precious Gynx yarn in the Naughty or Nice color way.

Etched Rio Wrap for mom. Using Plymouth yarns Estilo, and it's really lovely.

Runa by Gudrun Johnston. Still on the hood.

Stalking: Nothing. No new things until I've finished up some stuff.

Acquisitions - Trunk show by Colorful Eclectic Yarns last weekend, walked away with a few things. Also hit Etsy hard, Lollipop and Holly Berry self-striping yarns.

Spinning Projects - some undyed alpaca, finished up the grey/green yarn

Under the Needle:
Sewing Projects - Working on the binding of baby quilt #1.

In the Garden: n/a

In the Beeyard - n/a

Off Topic: Yes to Vlogmas.
Watching/Listening: My favorite podcasters doing Vlogmas, and Christmas music. Tis the season!

Thanks for watching!

Episode 48: Spoilers Ahead

noreply@blogger.com (Dani Girl in CO) — Fri, 09 Nov 2018 01:51:00 +0000

On the Needles:
Knitting Projects -
FO's: n/a

WIPs:
Vanilla socks are trucking along when I'm out and about.

2018 Stephen West MKAL. SPOILER ALERT!!! On clue 3, which is taking FOREVER.

Stalking:

Acquisitions -

Spinning Projects - Fiber from Retold Yarns in There Is No Try color way. Love it. Also spun up a bobbin of mystery fiber while waiting for my singles to rest.

Under the Needle:
Sewing Projects - tied a baby quilt. Quilt guild tonight, annual challenge reveal (8 is great) and a trunk show.

In the Garden: n/a

In the Beeyard - n/a

Off Topic: Pigskin Party KAL with Down Cellar Studio, glad spinning counts because I'm not earning many points.

Watching/Listening: Found Knitting Vicariously, with Dunderknits on YouTube. New, hope she keeps going.

Thanks for watching!

Episode 47: Don't Cut That!

noreply@blogger.com (Dani Girl in CO) — Thu, 25 Oct 2018 22:55:00 +0000

On the Needles:
Knitting Projects -
FO's: n/a

WIPs:
Runa by Gudrun Johnston. Finished sleeves, onto the hood.

Prayer shawl for church. Don't put much time into it, need to finish it up.

Turning Vanilla socks into patterned socks, then back to vanilla. HO

2018 Stephen West MKAL. SPOILER ALERT!!! On clue 3, so far I've been keeping up.

Evolution shawl by Rachel Henry that I started FOUR years ago. Inspired by Boston Jen to pick it up again. Love the yarn. It is intended to get more complicated with each section, and I stalled out at 6, double-sided lace knitting.

Also for the DCS Pigskin Party interception, I frogged my Montego shawl, and now I've got beautiful yarn back to use as I'd like.

Stalking: three color lace weight shawls, the Concrete, Potpourri, and Echoes of Color. I have 2200 yds of Silky Alpaca Lace. Poll?

Acquisitions - yarn for mom's Etched Rio Wrap, Atenti bag that was a real splurge

Spinning Projects - neapolitan yarn, received several alpaca fleeces from a family member

Under the Needle:
Sewing Projects - baby quilts! Glow in the Dark!

In the Garden: n/a

In the Beeyard - n/a

Off Topic: Had ReStore come and haul away several large items, now it's time to clean and organize the garage. Rocky Mountain Brewery is holding an Axe-throwing pumpkin party. I have to go. Trying to do a little something every day to keep the blues away.
BatterUp KAL with In A Sknit, it's time for the World Series! Pigskin Party KAL with Down Cellar Studio.

Watching/Listening: Looking for some new video podcasts. Recommendations?

Thanks for watching!

Episode 46: Bye Bye Budget

noreply@blogger.com (Dani Girl in CO) — Fri, 28 Sep 2018 23:00:00 +0000

On the Needles:
Knitting Projects -
FO's:

Pigskin Party Kickoff Socks in Biscotte yarn. Used a slipped stitch pattern to meet the September interception rules.

Aunt Maggie's Cowl designed by Shilo Weir. Super secret test knit that's now available on Ravelry.

WIPs:
Runa by Gudrun Johnston. On the sleeves! Doing both concurrently.

Prayer shawl for church. Don't put much time into it, need to finish it up.

Turning Vanilla socks into patterned socks, then back to vanilla.

Stalking: color way combos

Acquisitions - sock yarn, fiber from Salida, Gynx sock yarn

Spinning Projects - blending board from Howard Brush Works (Daisy Fiber Co), neapolitan fiber, alpaca fiber

Under the Needle:
Sewing Projects - n/a

In the Garden: n/a

In the Beeyard - n/a

Off Topic: BatterUp KAL with In A Sknit, Pigskin Party KAL with Down Cellar Studio. Got sucked into doing the 2018 Stephen West MKAL. I THINK (?) I have my yarns picked out, but I haven't knitted a swatch yet.
Started ordering meals from Hello Fresh. So for so good, we're enjoying cooking together. Healthier portion sizes might help us.
Watching/Listening:

Thanks for watching!

Episode 45: Back In The Saddle Again

noreply@blogger.com (Dani Girl in CO) — Wed, 29 Aug 2018 22:54:00 +0000

On the Needles:
Knitting Projects -
FO's:
Lattice Socks out of Oh Loops in Pickett. Have to find someone they fit.

Cecilliana "You're Healing My Heart" by Lisa Hannes. LOVE IT.

Added heels in the blue Hedgehog yarn to A's wonder woman socks.

WIPs:
Runa by Gudrun Johnston. Working Flying Wing stitch for upper body while doing decreases.

Prayer shawl for church.

Turning Vanilla socks into patterned socks. Got bored.

Stalking:

Acquisitions - sock yarn for some men's socks (maybe?)

Spinning Projects - n/a

Under the Needle:
Sewing Projects - Prairie Woman Sewing Circle started new season, playing catchup already.
Hand quilting my pineapple block table runner. Chalk isn't holding up well.

In the Garden: The yard work continues. Hops were hit multiple times by hail so not really worth harvesting. Weeds are the bane of my existence. Doing practical random acts of kindness by pulling my neighbors weeds. They caught me. No, I'm not the crazy neighbor lady. Doing some planning for fall planting of perennials to fill in some of the gaps. High Country Gardens is still online and shipping.

In the Beeyard - Both hives are alive, but I need to do some serious weed mitigation and throw on 2nd boxes.

Off Topic: Summer KALs winding up, fall ones starting. Football!!! Been tired a lot lately. My LYS, Ewe and Me, changed locations and they have over twice the space now!
Watching/Listening: SSK recaps from my fav podcasters. Will 2019 be the year I go to Nashville in July?

Thanks for watching!

Episode 44: In The Heat Of The Night . . . er, Morning

noreply@blogger.com (Dani Girl in CO) — Sun, 15 Jul 2018 19:46:00 +0000

Welcome viewers! Glad to have you all back. Hello new viewers. Don't forget to subscribe to be updated on new posts, and join our group on Ravelry.
I am DaniGirlCO on Instagram, Periscope and Ravelry. Come and follow along.
Here are the show notes for Episode 44:

On the Needles:
Knitting Projects -
FO's:
Vanilla Supergirl socks for E. Doing the toes and cuffs in Hedgehog Fibers Electric blue, body in Madtosh red. Finally!

WIPs:
Runa by Gudrun Johnston. Loving the rhythm of the seed stitch. Have done 2nd Vikkel braid and am beginning upper body.

Lattice Socks out of Oh Loops in Pickett. Working on the cuffs. Almost there, then have to find someone they fit.

Cecilliana "You're Healing My Heart" by Lisa Hannes. Loving it. Nearly monogamous.

Prayer shawl for church.

Stalking: Patterns with stacked increases, such as Turkish Garden and the Amimon Maritime Socks by Olya Amimono.

Acquisitions - n/a

Spinning Projects - n/a Haven't been doing the Tour de Fleece this year.

Under the Needle:
Sewing Projects - hand quilting another table runner.

In the Garden: The yard work continues.

In the Beeyard -

Off Topic: We have a new fence! Picking up tickets for Sky Sox game.
Watching/Listening:

Thanks for watching!

Episode 43: Gradient Gone Wrong

noreply@blogger.com (Dani Girl in CO) — Tue, 26 Jun 2018 23:49:00 +0000

On the Needles:
Knitting Projects -
FO's: n/a

WIPs:
Vanilla Supergirl socks for E. Doing the toes and cuffs in Hedgehog Fibers Electric blue, body in Madtosh red. How can these not be done yet?

Runa by Gudrun Johnston. Loving the rhythm of the seed stitch. Have done 2nd Vikkel braid and am beginning upper body.

Lattice Socks out of Oh Loops in Pickett. Ended up ripping back AGAIN because I messed up the diamond pattern.

Cecilliana "You're Healing My Heart" by Lisa Hannes. Deb came back from TNNA with some Three Irish Girls that jumped into my hands. Bought needles and cast on right then at knit group. Tres Chic and Hemlock. Loving it.
Stalking: n/a

Acquisitions - just a little MORE fabric, bought by the pound, Three Irish Girls yarn, fiber my MIL brought back from Ireland

Spinning Projects - n/a

Under the Needle:
Sewing Projects - Prairie Woman Sewing Circle, finished hand quilting and binding the bear claw table runner.

In the Garden: The yard work continues. Weeds are all pulled except for the garden, sunburns continue because I apparently didn't learn the first time.

In the Beeyard - PPBA is doing a bee yard visit on Jun 30, which of course I'm busy for. Slow going due to the dearth.

Off Topic: Willow may be a good therapy dog after all. Hmmmmm . . .
Watching/Listening: Imagined Landscapes. What's up with me loving all the Canadians right now?

Thanks for watching!

Episode 42: Catching Up With Life

noreply@blogger.com (Dani Girl in CO) — Thu, 07 Jun 2018 01:50:00 +0000

On the Needles:
Knitting Projects -
FO's: n/a

WIPs:
Vanilla Supergirl socks for E. Doing the toes and cuffs in Hedgehog Fibers Electric blue, body in Madtosh red. How can these not be done yet?

Runa by Gudrun Johnston. Loving the rhythm of the seed stitch. Have finished with the body decreases and about to point where pattern continues for all sizes.

Mix #34 cowl (dragon scale cowl) with my Maiden Hair and Bambu 7 held together. Ended up casting on 10 extra stitches (I think) because I cast on at porch knitting. Not sure if I like the fabric with these yarns held together, so haven't put much time into it. Frog it?

Lattice Socks out of Oh Loops in Pickett. Ended up ripping back to where heel finished and picking up pattern again. Doing the extra wraps this time.

Stalking: n/a

Acquisitions - just a little fabric, bought by the pound

Spinning Projects - hand dyed silk mawatas on a spindle made by my dad. Really need to soften up my hands, but the gardening season is conspiring against me. Supported spindle.

Under the Needle:
Sewing Projects - Prairie Woman Sewing Circle,
Black and White Crazy Circle quilts, finished two tops while my mom was here. Need to figure out how to make the first one into a king size quilt. The fabric yardage isn't cooperating. Then I pulled out another WIP and my mom and I started back up on it. Remember why I loved it to begin with, and can't believe I've been hiding this fabric away for so many years.

In the Garden: The yard work commences. Vines are trellised, perennials are trimmed up, weeds slowly being pulled. Haven't planted the garden due to weeds.

In the Beeyard - I've stuck with keeping the bees at Homestake Nursery, because when I went to pick up equipment I'd left there, they had made me a road right up to my bees between all the compost and dirt piles. Change in that status. I set up two hives, and my bee packages arrived in mid May. I ordered Carniolan queens, and they were marked. I left them for two days, then released the queens. I can't describe the happiness I felt watching those pretty little queens marching down into the hive. I did put some feeders on them, but haven't been consistent about refilling them. I am slightly reassured by seeing honeybees on my catmint, but don't know if they are mine or not. First batch of brood should hatch in about a week. A definite difference between the two hives, and a bit spotty, but I saw both queens.

Off Topic: The parents visited for almost two weeks. I got my bed fixed! Lots of quilting with my mom, and I took her to knit group with me. Board games and cards. Sequence is the new favorite, as I don't think we had enough attention the night we tried Anomia (recommended by Amy Beth).
Are you doing Stash Dash with the Knit Girllls?
Watching/Listening: Midsomer Murders courtesy of my parents. Thanks guys. Spin Control by aJoyfulGirl. Shilo has moved here to COS and has joined our knit group! I've listened to her for several years off and on. Her server crashed and she was down for awhile, so you might need to resubscribe to the RSS feed.

Thanks for watching!

Episode 41: Sunburns and Sneezes

noreply@blogger.com (Dani Girl in CO) — Wed, 02 May 2018 18:25:00 +0000

On the Needles:
Knitting Projects -
FO's: n/a

WIPs:
Vanilla Supergirl socks for E. Doing the toes and cuffs in Hedgehog Fibers Electric blue, body in Madtosh red.

Runa by Gudrun Johnston. Loving the rhythm of the seed stitch. Had a change in shade from one skein to the other, so now I'm feathering in the new skeins.

Prayer shawl for church.

Celestarium by Audrey Nickels. Using a local yarn from Spruce Dragon called Twinkle in the Midnight Blue II color way. Using different colored beads for the different magnitudes of the stars. Started before the eclipse last year, and it's kind of been on hiatus since it's a knit I have to pay attention to. Currently just over halfway through the F charts, which puts me at 66% done with 576 stitches/round, although it feels like more.

Stalking: blending boards, Mix #34 cowl (dragon scale cowl)

Acquisitions - Tricked out Ewe, Hand Maiden Maiden Hair yarn. Black watch plaid waxed canvas project bag by tanneicasey on Etsty.

Spinning Projects - fiber swap with Spinners with Altitude was a success. Christy brought her blending board and let us all play around making some rolags. There wasn't a bad one in the bunch. Alpaca on a spindle. Green merino singles.

Under the Needle:
Sewing Projects - Prairie Woman Sewing Circle, 16 blocks for March were sewn together, basted, quilted, and binding sewn on. Sent fabric scraps to another podcaster, and she gifted me a pattern in my queue. Thanks Jennie!

In the Garden: Finally warmed up enough for me to spin outside. Promptly got a sunburn. Still need to do yard work.

In the Beeyard - I've been slowly cleaning up my equipment. Looking for a new location.

Off Topic: Allergies are the bane of my existence. Research for trip to Croatia. Run for the roses is only a few weeks away.
BatterUpKAL with InASknit. Splash Pad Party KAL with Boston Jen of Down Cellar Studio.
Watching/Listening: The X-Files in advance of the reboot. The Truth Is Out There!

Thanks for watching!

Episode 40: It's Been 17 Days Since My Last Podcast

noreply@blogger.com (Dani Girl in CO) — Tue, 17 Apr 2018 22:37:00 +0000

On the Needles:
Knitting Projects -
FO's:

WIPs:
Vanilla Supergirl socks for E. Doing the toes and cuffs in Hedgehog Fibers Electric blue, body in Madtosh red.

Runa by Gudrun Johnston. Loving the rhythm of the seed stitch. Had a change in shade from one skein to the other, so now I'm feathering in the new skeins.

Prayer shawl for church.

Celestarium by Audrey Nickels. Using a local yarn from Spruce Dragon called Twinkle in the Midnight Blue II color way. Using different colored beads for the different magnitudes of the stars. Started before the eclipse last year, and it's kind of been on hiatus since it's a knit I have to pay attention to. Currently halfway through the F charts, which puts me at 64.6% done with 576 stitches/round, although it feels like more.

Stalking:

Acquisitions - what else? fabric!

Spinning Projects - plyed my Broncos BFL and gave it a soak. Split out 2 oz of soy silk fiber for a swap Spinners with Altitude is doing on the 28th. Alpaca on a spindle. In a plying mood.

Under the Needle:
Sewing Projects - Prairie Woman Sewing Circle, catching up slowly. Finished the 16 blocks for March, need to sew together and finish. Compiling scraps to send to another podcaster, and having trouble limiting what to send due to weight/postage.

In the Garden: And . . . it's still snowing. The wind blew so hard last week it knocked a fence panel and several other boards down. Rhubarb is up and growing.

In the Beeyard - I've been slowly cleaning up my equipment.

Off Topic: Willow went to the groomers and it promptly snowed.
BatterUpKAL with InASknit. Splash Pad Party KAL with Boston Jen of Down Cellar Studio.
Watching/Listening: Path to the Draft.

Thanks for watching!

Episode 39: Cowboys in Colorado

noreply@blogger.com (Dani Girl in CO) — Fri, 30 Mar 2018 20:18:00 +0000

On the Needles:
Knitting Projects -
FO's:
Silver cardigan by Kristiina Temin for one of my nieces. Using a very bright pink and orange yarn by Lorna's Laces Sportmate and Madelinetosh 80/10/10 sport weight in Coquette to finish up the garter edging.

Brian's socks are done and he's worn them. Ready for a wash again.

Vanilla Bean Wonder Woman socks. Finished in the car.

Lush Brioche cowl, my Ravellenics project. Don't know why I was scared of brioche, because it's awesome and easy enough. I won a badge!

Vanilla Wonder Woman socks for A. Used all of the leftover sock yarn, finished cuff in red MadTosh.

WIPs:
Vanilla Supergirl socks for E. Doing the toes and cuffs in Hedgehog Fibers Electric blue, body in Madtosh red.

Runa by Gudrun Johnston. Swatching hell.

Prayer shawl for church.

Stalking: aimlessly

Acquisitions - Artistic yarns in Impressionist, Madtosh twist light in red, Hedgehog sock mini in Electric blue.

Spinning Projects -

Under the Needle:
Sewing Projects - Prairie Woman Sewing Circle, missed the last 2 months of classes.

In the Garden: Look out into the yard and see all the spring cleanup I need to do, but it's still snowing on us so I have no motivation.

In the Beeyard - I've ordered 2 packages of bees with Carniolan queens from John Hartley of Black Forest Honey. It's a local pickup and he works with PPBA.

Off Topic: Between traveling out of town for funerals and spring break visits, it's been a while. Yes, I'm still coughing. Spring IS on its way.
Trying to plan a motorcycle trip and find a way to combine it with a fiber festival, but I'm having trouble. Black Sheep Gathering in Albany, OR is a possibility, but it's right at end of June, beginning of July. It can be hot riding then.
Opening day of baseball, Rockies lost. BatterUpKAL starts with InASknit.
Watching/Listening: Path to the Draft. Good luck Josh Allen!

Thanks for watching!

Episode 38: The Cough That Keeps on Giving

noreply@blogger.com (Dani Girl in CO) — Wed, 14 Feb 2018 01:18:00 +0000

On the Needles:
Knitting Projects -
FO's:

WIPs:
Silver cardigan by Kristiina Temin for one of my nieces. Using a very bright pink and orange yarn by Lorna's Laces Sportmate. Looking for a Madelinetosh sport weight in Coquette. Sent some feelers out on Ravelry.

Brian's socks are coming along. Did several sets of increases for the calf. Would like to use up more yarn but Brian seems happy with shorter socks.

Vanilla Bean Wonder Woman socks. Doing 64 stitches on 1.5 US, which is normal, but doesn't seem like there will be much negative ease. NOT ripping out again. I'm matching, although it's starting to get off again.

Lush Brioche cowl, my Ravellenics project. Don't know why I was scared of brioche, because it's awesome and easy enough.

Prayer shawl for church.

Stalking:

Acquisitions - yarn. It was on sale!

Spinning Projects - braid of self-dyed roving, think it might be Merino? Little bit compacted so made sure I pre-drafted well. Singles are spun, rested, getting ready to ply.

Under the Needle:
Sewing Projects - Prairie Woman Sewing Circle, need to get started on project.

In the Garden: n/a

In the Beeyard - n/a

Off Topic: The 11.5 years in the house is raising it's ugly head. Furnace should have lasted a few more years, but it either required repairs or replacement. $6K gone. Better not interfere with my vacation! Getting the ducts cleaned today.
Instagram #yarnlovechallenge
Watching: Winter Olympics! Go Team USA! Also the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show.

Thanks for watching!

Episode 37: New Year, New Knitting!

noreply@blogger.com (Dani Girl in CO) — Sat, 20 Jan 2018 16:06:00 +0000

On the Needles:
Knitting Projects -
FO's:

WIPs:
Silver cardigan by Kristiina Temin for one of my nieces. Using a very bright pink and orange yarn by Lorna's Laces Sportmate. Had to rip out and go down needle size, still managed to run out of yarn. Looking for a pink to match.

Brian's socks were my Christmas Eve/Day cast on, had to rip out the heels and add a little bit of length to the foot. I'm getting pretty good at this frogging thing.

Vanilla Bean Wonder Woman socks in a self-striping color way. More frogging.

Stalking: Stripey socks. Wanted to go beyond vanilla but not too patterned.

Acquisitions - fabric! POM POMS!!!

Spinning Projects - n/a

Under the Needle:
Sewing Projects - The sewing kit for the nieces was a hit and we made several simple stitched ornaments. Also have a quilt-in-progress I worked on with my mom over holidays. Got a lot of progress made, although I'll probably have enough blocks for 3 quilts when I'm all done.
Jo's Little Women club is no more, so decided to join the Prairie Woman Sewing Circle (?) club instead. Uses reproduction fabrics, and looks like it will be fun with interesting projects.

In the Garden: n/a

In the Beeyard - Need to order my bees for next spring. Vandalism run rampant.

Off Topic: My Christmas card for the Yarnderwoman flat swap was returned for not enough postage, so I had to resend and fill out a customs form. Really?!?
I normally don't do resolutions. I am starting this year as I mean to continue. Went to prayer shawl meeting, knit group, going to quilt class tomorrow, and I'm podcasting!
Part of this is house cleaning. Ugh. Trying to just do a small bit every day for the deep clean, and rotate through the regular stuff weekly. It's amazing how stuff builds up when you've been in a house 11 years. Also using this as an opportunity to organize and get rid of stuff.
Watching:

Thanks for watching!