It is Quite Cool

Cutie Pie Thursday/Stay-at-Home-Mom Files: Sticker Book!

2012-01-26T05:15:00.000-07:00

The wee boy and I had a spontaneous play/craft/memory session the other day. He has quite a few stickers, from various free/me sources, and he likes to stick them all over the place. I was talking to Mr. Cool about something I remembered having as a kid--a sticker book.

So Lincoln picked out a cheap, yellow (lellow!) comp. notebook, and I added an envelope pocket inside.

We promptly began filling it with stickers. (Give me a smile still has the same cheesy response. Sigh.)

He really liked placing the stickers, and we began to have a big of dialogue about story between them. I think this might be good for travel and waiting as well.

More smiling--hey, at least he tries.

Last of the Unshared Christmas Knits

2012-01-25T05:11:00.004-07:00

I think it says something positive about where I am as a knitter that I am sitting on about four FOs (finished objects) that I have yet to blog about. I would, however, like to take care of the backlog.

These are some convertible mittens I knit for Brother-in-law Cool for Christmas. The second mitt took me forever to knit. A nice serviceable pattern in serviceable Cascade 220. BIL Cool thought buttons might be a nice touch. I concur--let me know if I can add those and a crochet loop for you.

Where did Cutie Pie go? Mama was busy.

2012-01-20T07:00:00.002-07:00

A new yarn store may have opened nearby. I may have met my knitting group there. I may have been there for over 90 minutes. It may be an insanely awesome place. I may have been on their webcam fondling yarn. I may have forgotten all about Cutie Pie Thursday. Sorry.

Photo courtesy of The Loopy Ewe's webcam.

Out of the Mouth of my Babe

2012-01-14T15:11:00.000-07:00

Some new quotable quotes from my darling boy:

Lincoln: Mom! Come see the football ice skaters! (hockey players on TV)

Lincoln: My nose!
Mom: Is it a cute nose?
Lincoln: No, just a snot nose.

Lincoln: I'm a little big boy giant!

Lincoln: (Directed to dad) Gallop with me, stormtrooper!

Lincoln: I'm going to swing like a monkey cowboy robot Lincoln!

Christmas 2011: Random Snaps Part Three (The Ranch)

2012-01-12T07:17:00.000-07:00

My wee lad and I were able to spend some time at the ranch over Christmas, where he played with his own herd of herefords, carefully assembled by his Grandad.

His main joy is lining them up in various formations and then admiring.

He was also immensely captivated by a small saddle found in the barn. It's still a bit big for him, and we did graduate from a stack of encyclopedias to a sturdy box, to now, at home, a specially built wooden stand.

He did know, instinctively, how to carry the saddle like a real cowboy.

Last of the Christmas Knitting: 2 More Washcloths

2012-01-11T07:13:00.003-07:00

Last Christmas, I knitted a whole stack of washcloths for my nephews and niece. We added two more to the crew this year, so I had new washcloths to knit. I enjoy these, and I'm getting faster.

A Detroit Lions washcloth for a future fan.

A Mario washcloth for a future gamer.

Christmas 2011: Random Snaps Part Two (The Gift Edition)

2012-01-04T13:58:00.000-07:00

Crawling out of his new Ikea tunnel!

Checking dad's heart with his new stethoscope--Dr. Lincoln spent all day trying to help sick mom feel better!

A highlight from the stocking--a Doc car! (from Disney/Pixar's Cars) A highlight for mom as well--purchased for $2 last Christmas at a post-holiday sale!

Using power tools just like his dad--what a young man I've got!

Moustaches!

2012-01-03T14:56:00.000-07:00

A bowl of soaking moustaches.

17 moustaches--knit tubes with stranded moustaches in 13 different designs--10 adult-sized and 7 kid-sized. All knit of Cascade 220.

One wacky family Christmas picture!

Christmas 2011: Random Snaps Part One

2012-01-02T14:52:00.000-07:00

Still not quite captured--Lincoln's superb growly face.

Riding a real toboggan with cousins and Uncle Cool.

Helping mom stir hot chocolate in robot jammies.

Just in Time

2012-01-01T14:29:00.002-07:00

So, my second skein for the Shakespeare Yarn Club is called Sweet Hero, and focuses on the tragedy that befalls innocent Hero in the play Much Ado About Nothing. It's a self-striping skein of yarn, with a black stripe alternating with a pale pink/lime green/white stripe. Black self-stripeys, as they're called, are "so hot right now!"

As the yarn content is merino/cashmere/nylon, I didn't really want to "waste" it on my feet, so I decided to make some gauntlet/mitts. The dyer of this fabulous yarn, Canon Hand Dyes, sponsored a KAL (knit-a-long) starting on Black Friday and ending today, January 1st. I just finished these up this morning, after knitting them all over Colorado and Wyoming.

They feel amazing and soft--although I think I need a punky shirt to wear with them.

They really make great, soft, warm reading mitts. I only have one skein left in this club, and it is destined to be socks. Hopefully I'll be posting about it sooner rather than later!

Merry (Early) Christmas!

2011-12-21T07:34:00.003-07:00

So, we are entering the land of Christmas craziness, and I'm going to be even slower on the blog than usual! I'll leave you with a last charming shot of my dear boy--about to celebrate his third Christmas !?!?! In January, I will be back with a bazillion posts on all my gift knitting, Christmas celebrations, LOTR marathons with yummy lembas, and so much more!

Cutie Pie Thursday: Christmas 2011 Outtakes

2011-12-15T06:27:00.000-07:00

This is what happens when I ask for a smile.

This is only marginally better.

This is pretty great, but we've lost an arm.

He needed to take Christmas pictures of mama, too.

I actually kind've liked this one, but it looked a tad suave, GQ for a Christmas picture.

"And then I said . . ."

And, of course, a quick shout out to Mama Cool, who celebrates her birthday today! Yay! Happy Birthday!

Cutie Pie Thursday: Cocoa Time

2011-12-08T06:01:00.000-07:00

Don't talk to me before I've had my cocoa. *

Seriously.

Ah, that's the sweet chocolatey stuff.

Yeah, that's the stuff.

*Not actual Lincoln quotes, but imagined mama comments. Also, these pictures are actually presented in reverse order taken--he looked crankier at the end of his cocoa photo session than at the beginning, which is pretty par for the course.

Cutie Pie Thursday: 1/2 Birthday Hat #3

2011-12-02T08:09:00.000-07:00

When Lincoln was six months old, I made it a tradition to knit him a hat for his half-birthday. This year, I made him an owl hat.

It's pretty cute, and he was certainly smiled at as we were out and about yesterday, but I think I'd like to give the beak another try in a bulkier yarn. The hat is big, but it still fits him, and he had fun wearing it. He never tried to take it off until it was warm!

I can't believe he's been around for 2 1/2 years--it simultaneously feels like forever and just a few seconds. Now, what hat to knit for next year?

Socks & Stockings

2011-12-01T07:46:00.003-07:00

My second pair of socks, knit out of a self-striping yarn called "pink burst"--I really loved knitting these over the year, and have made it a goal to always have a pair of self-striping socks on the needles.

A manually striped Christmas stocking, knit for my dear friend Hannah's wedding--I thought a new couple deserved new stockings!

I really didn't get any awesome photos of these stockings, but they really did knit up fast! It was fun to bounce back and forth between giant stockings and normal-sized socks.

I didn't do a perfect job on these socks, but I like that. If they were perfect, I think I'd have a harder time wearing them, and I love wearing them. Handknit socks are the best thing ever--unfortunately, I'm not getting that much faster. My first socks took a few years, this pair took about 10 months. Maybe next year I can make two pairs!

Cutie Pie Sunday: Third (!) Thanksgiving

2011-11-27T06:59:00.003-07:00

Hmm, tomorrow seems to have a had a fluid meaning for me this week! Anyway, here are some images from our lovely Thanksgiving, a beautiful day that involved a walk to the park! Blogger has scrambled the images a bit, and I'm in no particular need to order them, so there you go.

Buzz Lightyear, space ranger, visits the first Thanksgiving. Lincoln asked for forks for his pilgrims and indians, as they were eating food.

The lad enjoys pumpkin pie while looking at Grammie's cranberry/apple pie.

I high-five a turkey.
Lincoln and his Cool Cousin enjoy some tummy time.

And of course, the requisite shot of the lad attempting to eat a drumstick. He really couldn't make a go of it, but he gave it his best effort.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-24T06:34:00.004-07:00

As I was peeling and chopping potatoes yesterday for the mashed potatoes, I discovered this potato. It felt a bit like a sign--in the midst of all the Thanksgiving craziness/stress/food, remember the love. Cheesy, I know, but that's what makes the holidays different and special--we try to remember and show the love we have for our family and friends.

One of my favorite knitting writers/bloggers--the Yarn Harlot--writes about what an expression of love making socks for others is, as socks wear out and get holey in ways hats and sweaters won't. I think food is the same--making it is an expression of love, as it will get eaten and otherwise disposed of by the body. Food doesn't last, and I hope as you're preparing/eating meals this season, you will remember the love.

Come back tomorrow for Cutie Pie Thanksgiving pictures--drumsticks! Toy pilgrims! Football!

Cutie Pie Thursday: New Generation of Crafter

2011-11-17T09:40:00.002-07:00

This week Lincoln and I worked on some salt dough ornaments--he had a great time, but I'm not too happy with my dough. Anyone have any great recipes/secrets?

Blinding Knitwear: Highlighter Cowl

2011-11-12T07:24:00.000-07:00

Remember this skein, from the Taos Wool Festival? I was between a hat and a cowl, and I decided to go with a cowl. The more I looked at the yarn, the more I realized it was made up of the colors you find in a pack of highlighters, and I wanted to play that up.

I chose a pattern that used slipped yarnovers, to really give a slash-y, highlighted look to the bright yarn.

I made it extra big, so that it would fall more into the mod/trendy "infinity" scarf realm of cowls.

It can be worn long and looped like the above, which is still keeping me pretty toasty.

It is also long and stretchy enough to be worn doubled up into a really cozy cowl. This was fun and fast, and if I see Fiber Fanatic at another wool festival, I will definitely be snatching up more yarn!

Cutie Pie Thursday: Quotable Lincoln

2011-11-10T07:18:00.001-07:00

Not all his time is spent quietly perusing books in his "Boy Cave"--our small lad is becoming quite the talker. Below, a selection of his bon mots (italics are my side of the conversation):

"I'm a scary robot monster . . . a dinosaur one!"

"The boot says yee-haw. The other boot says yee-haw. The hat doesn't say yee-haw!"

"The baby fork is sad." "Why?" "He misses his mommy and daddy fork." "Where are they?" "Mommy fork is on her plate. Daddy fork is in the drawer." (This conversation took place while we ate a meal without dad.)

"I have an idea!" "What is it?" "I don't know."

"What smells stinky on my body?"

"I'm not big. I'm just a little boy."

Cutie Pie Tuesday: Late Halloween

2011-11-08T07:14:00.003-07:00

Mom: What do you want to be for Halloween? A cowboy?
Lincoln: No!
Mom: Hmmm. A knight?
Lincoln: No.
Mom: A robot?
Lincoln: No!
Mom: (running out of things we have free costumes for) A fireman?
Lincoln: Yes!

So, Fireman Lincoln visited Grammie Cool's class for the traditional Halloween parade. He then stuck with his costume all day, even taking his fire engine, hat, and boots into the coffee shop with mom! Next year, he may be truly old enough we have to buy him a costume!

Cutie Pie Wednesday: Early Snow

2011-10-26T15:25:00.006-06:00

I woke from a dead sleep at 3 AM this morning to discover the power was out and there was a ton of snow outside. Our power came on around 1 PM, and the snow just quit gently drifting down, but I think it's safe to say we got around a foot of snow. Lincoln was ready to enjoy it.

Dad helps get him strapped into his snow pants. Lincoln learned that suiting up for snow is a serious business.

As Lincoln lounges on the bench on the porch, you can get a real sense of how deep the snow was around here!

Flomping in the snow was just about as good as flomping in the pillows!

Daddy helped teach Lincoln about the joy of a snowball!

He liked scooping and tossing the snow!

He tried a little shoveling, but it was just too deep and wet!

His mittens got pretty caked with snow--it's tough to tell where they end and the snowball begins!

My adventurous lad surveys the scene--it was tough to get him to come on in!

Cutie Pie Thursday: Bundles

2011-10-20T06:27:00.000-06:00

The temperature may have dropped a bit here, and some members of the household may take umbrage at my thermostat dictatorship.

Cutie PIe Thursday: Productive Interaction

2011-10-13T07:50:00.000-06:00

Painting with dad, using the classic paint with water.

Reading with mom before bedtime--if you are noting titles, we are reading the Golden Book retelling of Toy Story--there will be two more books read after this! We love all the "big kid" interaction we keep getting to have with Lincoln! It's amazing! And more will be coming!

Just In Case; or, Fun with 500; or, Everyone's Doing It

2011-10-10T07:24:00.006-06:00

Just in case Mr. Cool ever becomes president, I have a very first-lady-ish hobby going.

There are dozens of photos of Eleanor knitting. She was always knitting. Especially on planes. It would be amusing to see her deal with the TSA today about her knitting needles.

This is Grace Coolidge, wife of Calvin Coolidge, for those of you who didn't automatically recognize her. She loved to knit as well. She also crocheted--including a coverlet for the Lincoln Bedroom.

In fact, as I celebrate my 500th post on this blog, loads of people love to knit (or at least pretend.) Check it out!

A Trip to Taos: Fall Color Explosion

2011-10-09T08:09:00.000-06:00

I hope everyone gets a chance to see some gorgeous fall leaves this year--I'm not very good at photographing the beauty we saw. My favorites are a flash of golden leaves trapped in a green conifer zone.

A Trip to Taos: See-Saw & Swim

2011-10-08T07:31:00.000-06:00

Lincoln and I go to a lot of parks, but a piece of vanishing playground equipment is the see-saw--in Taos (in a fantastic playground right next to the Wool Festival) he was able to discover a see-saw. After he and Mr. Cool worked out their technique, he loved it. Where have all the see-saws gone?

He also discovered that classic of all road trips--fabulous pool lounging!

But most of all, he loved splashing in the pool. The first time, he was all about splashing mama--we were both in hysterical giggles.

The second time, it was all about splashing with his "new green tugboat!"

A Trip to Taos: Fibery Loot

2011-10-07T07:50:00.000-06:00

This may not seem like much loot, but there are two reasons: I stuck to my budget, and I picked up a fair number of gifts, which will be revealed at a later date.
This was my favorite booth--I've purchased from them before at Estes Park, and I love the colors and softness of their yarn. I got there early, and so didn't have much of a crowd to fight through to make my selections.

I'm sorry my yarn pics aren't better--this skein is gorgeous. It's named turquoise, and I picked it up as my "souvenir" skein, and I have already picked a shawl to make out of it called Arroyo. Perfect, huh?
This lovely "graphite" skein is destined to become another shawl--one of my purposes at the wool festival was to find a great grey for an everyday shawl, and this fit the bill.

I had not been to this booth before, but it became a favorite. The owners/dyers/workers/whoever was running the booth was delightful, and their colors were gorgeous, and their wool affordable. Trifecta!
I have been oddly drawn to neon colors recently, so I couldn't pass up this skein. When I bought it, one of the workers said, "Ah, the OMG skein." I was also informed that it will fluoresce under a black light. I really want to knit it under a black light now!

I think I have enough for a nice hat or cowl to sear people's eyes with this winter!

Mark's favorite vendor was selling "Taos Tortillas"--placemats, potholders, and napkin rings made of scorched 100% wool felt. They are really awesome--that looks just like a tortilla, doesn't it? We think we need some cactus or chili pepper salt and pepper shakers to complete the table with that.

I really, truly loved this festival, and I can't wait to go again--I think I need to make a trip with my knitting group, one with my sister . . .

A Trip to Taos: Wool Festival Overview

2011-10-06T07:26:00.000-06:00

The festival vendors were laid out in a lovely circle around this huge, gorgeous park. It was easy to wander and browse, and there were a ton of fantastic vendors. I'll get more into those later!

It was a beautiful day--clear and sunny, with enough of an early chill that I was able to wear a shawl comfortably, and declare myself one of the knitters!

Lincoln liked the brown sheep--and climbing gates!

A Trip to Taos: Taos Cow Blows Our Minds

2011-10-05T07:17:00.000-06:00

When looking for recommendations on Taos, Taos Cow kept coming up. It's actually in Arroyo Seco, about 20 minutes from Taos, but if you are in the region--go. Just go.

Lincoln loved all the cows, and as soon as we walked in and he spotted the ice cream, he wanted ice cream. We told him he had to eat something else first and led by example.

Mr. Cool had "the best roast beef sandwich I've ever had" with insanely good Thai coleslaw,
while I had Thai coconut curry soup, loaded with yummy veggies and intense flavor, and accompanied by awesome rye toast.

Mr. Cool and Lincoln with the ice cream beauty shot--you can see that Lincoln is really into this ice cream. From left, clockwise: Chocolate Mexican Chocolate, Raspberry, and Lavender.

We asked Lincoln if he wanted raspberry or strawberry, and he answered, "Chocolate." So that's what he got. It was yummy--almonds, cinnamon, fudgyness.

He also deigned to try some raspberry--the best fruity ice cream we've ever had, and the lavender which seriously blew our minds. Definitely worth the trip!

A Trip to Taos: Travel and Rest

2011-10-04T07:11:00.000-06:00

Because Mr. Cool and the new Cool loved me, when I was unable to attend the Estes Park Wool Market, they agreed to take a long weekend and journey down to Taos, New Mexico, for the Taos Wool Festival in October. So, we headed out on a road trip, trail mix in our gyro bowls!

Lincoln is pretty excited here about two orange chocolates. It is, as all parents know, immensely fun to head out on the road with a kid who is old enough to enjoy trail mix, books, and other road fun.

We stopped at this veteran's memorial on the road, replete with a plane. Lincoln loved it, and cried to go back after we left. I hope he remembers his parents were willing to stop in the first place!

Our "new home" as Lincoln called, the lovely El Pueblo Lodge--large rooms, lovely staff, and green space all around for small boys to run around.

Fireplaces, grills, and chairs were scattered all over--truly a great place for families and others getting together. Lincoln had fun pointing out the suns.

Happy Birthday to Grandad!

2011-10-03T07:07:00.002-06:00

For my dad's big birthday this year, Lincoln and I headed north to pay him a visit. The wee lad then got the chance to drive a tractor with Grandad!

Two pretty happy guys!

A full view of dad's great restored tractor--he really liked the red and black and white tractor!

Cutie Pie Thursday: The Young Photographer

2011-09-29T07:22:00.000-06:00

The wee lad took this picture himself, proud of his precarious pile of dinosaurs, horses, and Toy Story denizens.

He also let us take a photo of the photographer. A gracious lad.

Shakespeare Yarn Club Skein One

2011-09-25T08:00:00.001-06:00

For my birthday, I joined Custom Yarn Dyer Amy Lee's Shakespeare Yarn Club for three months--the three months covering the play Much Ado About Nothing, one of my favorites.

Right after my birthday the first skein arrived--Kill Claudio (name of colorway) in luscious Leo MCS (merino/cashmere/silk.) She had a lovely color theory behind the crazy colors--it begins with pink symbolizing Hero's innocence, moves into a darker pink of infatuation, to a purple and blue symbolizing love and fidelity, then green symbolizing Claudio's jealousy, and finally a deep red marking Beatrice's demand of Benedick that he "Kill Claudio."

You can really see the movement of the colors with the skein on my swift. Lovely--I am definitely going to use this when next I teach Shakespeare--students can create a description of the plot/emotion of a play using color!

Some people in the knitting world call yarn with this much variance of color "clown barf." Sometimes it applies, but not with this gorgeous skein--even wound in a ball I loved the colors.

As it had so much gorgeousness (and cashmere!) I decided to make a shawlette instead of socks with this skein. I chose Yvaine, a lovely pattern that uses garter, stockinette, and seed stitch. I love seed stitch, and it worked incredibly well with this pattern. I love this shawlette, and I know I will get tons of wear out of it this winter. Variegated colors go with everything!

I even had enough left to make some fantastic little mitts, that just keep my hands warm. I know I will wear these in the winter when my hands get a bit chilly. I love how the stripes pooled on these mitts.

I can't wait for my second skein--it should be arriving this week!

Cutie Pie Thursday: A Snow Hat

2011-09-22T07:17:00.000-06:00

I decided Lincoln needed a quick hat for when it got cold, because his 1/2 birthday hat is a bit more complicated this year. I had two inches of ribbing done, and I asked Lincoln what mama was knitting. "A hat!" he replied, and when he found out it was a hat for when it snowed, he was pretty excited. "A snow hat," he sagely observed, "in red and grey."

However, when I first put it on him, he was a bit suspect.

He did give me some good modeling shots, though.

Strike a pose!

But then he realized it was still pretty warm out (this was a few weeks ago), and he was done. I just hope he keeps it on once it is time for snow hats.

Awkward Photos of Knitting, or Finished Objects Galore

2011-09-19T13:27:00.000-06:00

I really should work on getting help with my finished object pictures. Even with my great tripod, I'm not so skilled at taking pictures of myself. I tend to really go all-out crazy eyes.

A great winter headband in Malabrigo Chunky (Dusty Olive colorway)--pattern is Blue Leaf Headband. I really look forward to wearing this, but despite its camo-like appearance, hopefully not in a remake of Platoon, although my eyes might disagree.

This is supposed to be a picture of my gorgeous Candle Flame Cowl knit in ridiculously smooshy Elsa Wool Cormo, but all I can see are my nostrils. You too, huh? That, or the earrings that are too long to wear with this cowl. Nope, mostly the nostrils.

I'm trying to show off my mitts and scarf/shawlette (Sock Yarn Mini Warms and Yvaine, respectively) knit in seductive Leo MCS (Merino/Cashmere/Silk) that are from my first ever Shakespeare Yarn Club, dyed by Amy Lee, but mostly I look like some yarn-clad pirate, or something. My arms are right in a yo-ho-ho move.

This one, oof. My second attempt to photograph my Figurehead Shawl in Spud and Chloe Sweater, and my eyes go so crazy one blinds the camera. And the shawl totally clashes with that shirt.

I hope I can get better at this!

Infinite Variety

2011-09-17T13:24:00.000-06:00

Fingerless mitts in fingering weight sock yarn on size 0 needles.

A child's hat in super bulky yarn on size 13 needles.

Both items finished on same day--I love the variety of knitting!

Cutie Pie Thursday: Take More Pictures of My Cars, Mom!

2011-09-15T07:00:00.000-06:00

Take more pictures of my cars, mom. My small boss demanded.

Let me find them, he added, gathering them up in his hoarder's arms.

Now! he requested forcefully.

Here's Francesco, Mater the tow truck, Finn his friend, and Lightning McQueen, the famous race car, he said.
At least my boss has simple demands.

A Published Knitter!

2011-09-12T19:58:00.003-06:00

Remember when I blogged about designing a hat and having my lovely sister model it?

Well, my hat was one of the chosen designs! I'm going to be a published knitter (and I won some lovely Manos!) I'll have more info on where to find my pattern, Tweedledee and Tweedledum in a bit! Woo-hoo!

Cutie Pie Thursday: Swingin' Toddler Pad

2011-09-08T12:05:00.004-06:00

Mr. Cool worked hard this week to be the coolest dad around, as he turned our under-the-stairs storage into a swingin' toddler play/toy closet. Earlier, he had worked on the door, cutting it in two and adding a shelf. The wee lad was already playing with that, unafraid of the power tools around him.

Now he can enjoy a sweet place to play, with nice new carpet, wooden walls, and a bean bag chair (for the ultimate lounging experience.) I would like to add some more posters to brighten up the walls!

I can hang out there too, with my bionic boot, and Lincoln has already moved in quite a stack of books!

And of course, he can always shut us out and have a wonderful time on his own!

Cutie Pie Thursday: On Ode to My Son

2011-09-01T11:11:00.004-06:00

Lincoln visited the hospital around 9 times in the last two weeks--visiting Grammie Cool, Sista/Auntie Cool and new cousin Cool--and he was awesome every time. He played very well, he cheered everyone up, he didn't throw fits, or complain. As long as we had Buzz, Woody, and Bull's Eye, he entertained himself quite happily. (Even if this photo doesn't look like it. He may be realizing that Auntie Cool will not be as devoted to him as she once was.) Thank you. You are an amazing son.

Knit On, With Confidence and Hope, Through All Crises

2011-08-28T17:26:00.000-06:00

The title quote, from patron knitting saint Elizabeth Zimmerman, have defined my weeks of worry over my family. I have a few completed items to show. A chunky knit--headband in Malabrigo chunky, colorway "Dusty Olive" or as I named it, "Girly Camo." Quick and fun.

Above and below, a sweater vest for Lincoln. It's a bit big, but that's better than small with a baby, and he doesn't like it. Yet. (Oh, I hope it's Yet!)

A Candle Flame Cowl in lovely natural cormo. More better pictures to come (I'm tired and my English teacher is about to wear off.)

Cutie Pie Friday: New Cousin!

2011-08-26T17:23:00.003-06:00

Guess who we met today--our new cousin Ellis! Welcome to the world, little guy! Lincoln can't wait to teach you about cars and horses!

Cutie Pie Thursday: A Real Live Horsie

2011-08-25T05:35:00.000-06:00

Waiting with Grandad Philip while the miniature horse, Little Blue Chief, gets saddled.

A full view of the intrepid cowboy (wearing his hat and boots!) being led around the corral.

Jacob worried he was a bit scared--no, he just had in intent, intense look on his face. He was concentrating, taking this in--maybe there was a bit of fear, but mostly he was absorbing this new experience.

Grandad Philip was there guiding and helping the whole ride.

Running through the corrals post-ride, getting his boots all dusty.

Cutie Pie Thursday: Splashin' & Boostin'

2011-08-18T07:42:00.000-06:00

Mr. Cool and Lincoln had a fabulous time at the Funplex pool last week! The sunlight made it tricky to get pictures, but here we see the wee lad working on his water basketball skills.

I love my boys so much--they are both so fearless and brave! Lincoln was sliding and splashing with abandon--it's time for a mom and tot swim class!

And we have moved out of the high chair into a booster seat! We just ordered one from a restaurant supply (we didn't boost one--tee-hee!), and he loves it. He is ready to sit at the table with Mama and Daddy!

Adorable Shawlette Seeking Better Photos

2011-08-16T13:47:00.000-06:00

I love this shawlette--these pictures are terrible! I promise better pictures soon! I just had to document this now as a finished object--it will get a lot of fawl/winter wear--it looks great as a scarf too!

Figurehead Shawl by Alexis Winslow, knit in a purply and a teal Spud and Chloe sweater yarn. Bonus--washable wool/cotton! Love!

Thought About Running While Sitting Still

2011-08-15T15:16:00.003-06:00

I first really ran in 2004, for one magical spring/summer. It was amazing--I ran with a Discman (dating myself?) and my favorite thing to run to was Disc 2 from my Jackson Browne set. It had "I'm Alive," and "I am a Patriot" on it, two of my favorite Jackson Browne songs. There is something very powerful about running outside while listening to the line: "And the river opens for the righteous . . . And the river opens for the righteous . . . someday"

I ran at night a lot then, as I had no kiddo to take care of--my biggest memory was running one evening, and in the cool breeze of late summer, running non-stop for five miles, my best ever, which included three glorious laps around my favorite park. I felt alive.

I stopped running because I lacked willpower, and teaching has always consumed my energy.

I started running again this year with the Couch to 5K program and some great podcasts. I loved it--even though I was slow. I was at the second-to-last week and 28 minute/2 mile + runs when I had to quit denying my foot pain. After three weeks of doctor visits/x-rays/MRIs, the doctor confirmed what I had already found on webmd--I had a stress fracture. I am now condemned to 8 weeks of boot-wearing, and a slow return to exercise.

In a painfully ironic twist, my new subscription to Runner's World (a birthday gift to myself) arrived the week I started wearing the boot.

I know I can come back, but I miss my fledging runner's high--I miss the hope that once again I would be circling the park at twilight with a summer breeze cooling my sweaty neck.

I was reading today about Roger Bannister, one of my runnng heroes, and learned that he has not even jogged in 36 years, due to a shattered ankle recived in a car accident. Wow--that blew my mind. Roger Bannister (google if you don't know his significance) can't run. I know I can, again, and soon. By Christmas maybe I'll even be back at the same spot in my Couch to 5K journey.

My big, lifetime running goal is to run in at least one marathon. I'd also like to run in the DisneyWorld 1/2 or full marathon. The characters cheer you on!

I also want to run a 5K with my son, who misses me chasing him around during this period of limited movement.

Before you start running, it is easy to be still, lazy, a bit of a couch potato. After you run, forced stillness hurts. I know there are worse things, I know that I will soon run and not grow weary, but still.

I miss you running--don't you forget about me.

Manos Hat Sessions

2011-08-13T13:16:00.000-06:00

For my Manos Contest Hat (more details in September), I wanted to do some special shots with a special model--Sista Cool. I bribed our young charge with smoothies.

The tough thing about shooting a woolen hat in August is finding a way to not make it look too out of season. However, I didn't ask pregnant Sista Cool (due in a few weeks!) to wear a sweater.

I felt the train depot was a bit all-seasons.

I also like this cool climbing wall at a local park--I think this will be a new favorite for my FO photo shoots. Blank, but not too blank. I think Sista Cool looks great in this shot as well!
A rather nice profile shot--thanks for being a great model, Sista Cool!

Cutie Pie Thursday: Carrying On

2011-08-11T04:14:00.000-06:00

What should we do next seems to be my battle cry these days--although, I try not to get too burned out when my demanding boss is so cute!

Me, Knit Hats? Why, of course!

2011-08-02T16:24:00.000-06:00

I made up the pattern and knitted these top two hats for a contest. I'll let you know how it turns out!

This cute little hat is for a baby girl in the family! (I had to resort to knitting a hat for a distant cousin in order to make one for a girl!

Shrug Time

2011-07-31T06:36:00.000-06:00

Okay, so I haven't knit a sweater yet, but I am getting closer. I just finished this shrug, knit in an 80s stripe pattern out of my scraps of cotton-ease yarn. I used a great pattern by Susan B. Anderson, one of my favorite designers. I'm planning to make a grey wool one for fall/winter, with longer sleeves. And, maybe, smaller sleeves. One problem with losing weight, is things you make might be too small before you even wear them!

Pattern: A Simple Shrug by Susan B. Anderson
Yarn: Cotton-Ease Scraps
Time to Knit: 2 Weeks (2 Weeks! We work today!)

Cutie Pie Saturday: HOT

2011-07-30T10:17:00.000-06:00

Sometimes the only thing to do when it is really hot is eat a frozen treat--here, Lincoln enjoys a classic Bomb Pop. We hope that if you are also somewhere warm, you are staying cool as well!

Cutie Pie Thursday: More Animal Husbandry

2011-07-28T07:09:00.000-06:00

Our wee cowpoke takes care of his horses--in the past he has offered them water and juice, and now he will give them a nice brushing, including both pairs of "ears."

And he can even rock a cowboy hat with a pair of plaid shants!

Cutie Pie Friday: A Quick Read

2011-07-22T13:32:00.002-06:00

Excuses: We have a new computer, and data transfer is going slowly, hence the lack of bloggyness--my photos are mostly stranded on my old and out-of-date computer. I did have this one, of Lincoln engaging in a family pastime, with some rather stiff new friends.

Cutie Pie Thursday: Lord of the Park

2011-07-07T08:00:00.000-06:00

Quote: "I'm bangin' on the bongo drums!"

I promise, he does like swinging.

Quote: "I found another wheel!"

Quote: "Whee!"

Quote: "Down the slide!"

And, of course, we must ride on a horse!

My First Shawl: Botany Kerchief

2011-07-02T14:51:00.004-06:00

Botany Kerchief knit in 2 skeins of Manos del Uruguay Maxima, purchased on sale at My Sister Knits in Ft. Collins (my favorite yarn store!)

I cast on at the very end of May, when I was going through a bit of startitis (a condition that causes you to start many, many projects.)

This one stuck. I finished and blocked it last night while watching LOTR extras.

I took it to the park this morning with Lincoln and I, and armed with my gorillapod tripod, photographed it in some beautiful overcast light. The colors are pretty accurate.

I really love the gentle effect of this space-dyed yarn, and how it pairs with the simple, leafy lace and reverse stockinette.

I look forward to wearing it this fall and winter, and I hope I won't look this grumpy while I'm wearing it. I think my timer caught me keeping an eye on my Lincoln!

Cutie Pie Thursday: Horses!

2011-06-30T12:20:00.000-06:00

Lincoln just loves horses. Up close and personal was the best!

He seems to be making a point to Grandad Cool here: now this horse looks like a good piece of horseflesh--neigh!

Cloistered Knitting

2011-06-29T06:00:00.000-06:00

I've mostly been working on gift knitting and longer-term projects, but this is a little hat I whipped up for my beloved Mama Cool. The pattern is called Cloisters cap, so I made a little tag for it using a photo I took in London of the Westminster Abbey Cloisters.

I made this out of Cotton-Ease, mom's favorite for chemo caps, and used the colorway closest to the Ovarian Cancer "official" color. It knitted up quickly, and has sweet "gothic" cables.

Cutie Pie Tuesday: Gardening with Grammie

2011-06-28T12:16:00.000-06:00

Flowers? Seriously?

Grammie Cool teaches the way of the dirt.

Poppies!

Digging in the dirt can be fun, as long as Mama wipes your hand off after every scoop.

Let's Get Physical: Our Home Gym

2011-06-27T08:50:00.000-06:00

After nearly 5 years of fits and starts and cramming this room with junk, we finally completed our little unfinished laundry room gym. (If anyone is even vaguely familiar with Jersey Shore (I've never watched it, just seen it on entertainment shows) we can now do laundry and work out in the same room, which means we just need a tanning bed to live up to one of the show's mottos, Gym Tan Laundry.) We added the floor a few years ago, and this time it was about cleaning, sprucing up the walls, and really making this a place to exercise.

The walls were unfinished--you could see the insulation. And although it said formaldehyde-free, it was still tough to run next to. We had talked about totally finishing the walls, stapling fabric over it, and other ideas, but nothing was happening. As I've been doing the Couch to 5-K, I've been on the treadmill a bit, and the walls were driving me nuts. I bought a ton of posterboard, taped up workouts and inspirational stuff I'd saved from magazines, Mr. Cool helped me staple them to the wall, and voila! Workout wallpaper!

This is now a pretty happy place to work out (especially since we've also added an oscillating fan), and just yesterday I had my first 20-minute run in its friendly confines. If you ever come and stay with us, feel free to use the facilities!

Cutie Pie Sunday: From Scared to Splash, A Swim Story in Haiku

2011-06-26T12:00:00.000-06:00

Bath time is awesome
Swimming pools start out scary
Sameness wins out soon

Dunking dad is fun
But is mom glad he knows this?
Not after she swims

Mushroom sprays water
Crowd of cousins laughing loud
Maybe this is fun

Dad hoists me up high
Water in my nose: first time!
Still having fun, though

My Hawaiian shorts
Are wet and so am I: yay!
Not time to leave yet

Happy Boy pictured
Parents are also happy
New experience!

Cutie Pie Friday: My Internet is Back, Or Family Meeting

2011-06-24T11:47:00.006-06:00

We had a family ranch meeting/reunion in Laramie, WY in June. Lincoln discovered the wonderful world of hotel room mini-fridges. Especially when mommy stocks them with juice.

Sista Cool, a UW alum and her husband, brotha-in-law Cool, posed with a bucking bronc.

The whole extended clan (minus me and another photog) in Prexy's Pasture.

Lincoln got up close and personal with some art.

Papa Cool highlighted many aspects of family history and ranch business, including a very cool map of the ranch.

Lincoln discovered a giant dinosaur!

My Aunt Susan took pics outside her college at UW--and in front of one of the most redundant signs on the face of the earth.

More hotel room fun: Lincoln discovers riding the cart with the luggage--and your cowboy hat.

A frequent scene of the 3-day meeting: Lincoln playing while we listened and took notes.

Everyone walking by a UW building--so green and beautiful!

Cutie Pie Thursday: Ride 'em, Cowboy!

2011-06-09T09:40:00.002-06:00

Don't worry: he got right back up on the horse!

Howdy, mama!

Lincoln received a cowboy hat for his birthday. He likes it quite a lot!

He waves it in the air and says, "Ride 'em, Cowboy!"

He says it's his favorite hat, although he still loves his old ballcap the best.

Baby Got Backstitch

2011-06-05T20:47:00.000-06:00

Sometimes, I do crafts that don't involve knitting. One thing I enjoy is simple backstitching. I had this great fabric, and I needed something fun to put over Lincoln's new toy storage. I simply bought cheap embroidery hoops, backstitched over one small part of the design, and cut and glued the fabric into the hoop. I think it needs some ribbon, but I like the effect.

Here is the whole grouping. See--they need ribbon, and maybe something else. Ideas?
And for part of Lincoln's birthday, I embroidered this adorable monkey from a Fancy Tiger kit. I love Fancy Tiger--if you love fabric, wool, knitting, crocheting, felting--and you live anywhere near Denver, please go. They always have the best kits.

The Source of Camera Angst: The New Cool's First Self-Portrait

2011-06-04T20:38:00.000-06:00

If you have ever seen a roll of film taken by my father, Grandad Cool, you will understand why finding this on my camera made me laugh hysterically. The sickness travels to a new generation!

Birthday Party Madness

2011-06-03T20:29:00.000-06:00

Playing with cousin Kaitlynn and his new race cars, a favorite toy of the day. The day after his birthday, he called all his new toys, "Happy Birthday (insert toy here)!" He had "Happy Birthday hat/monkey/soccer ball, etc." It was awesome, and unprompted.

Enjoying his birthday banana split. Again, sorry for picture quality. I cannot seem to move past his crazy camera antics, or figure just what settings he changed.

Mr. Cool developed an elaborate game for the party involving multiple Barrels of Monkeys. Here, Uncle Matthew demonstrates just how big a chain of monkeys one can create.

The day after, Linc poses with his birthday banner, a fabulous gift/tradition Grammie Cool created. She made banners for Sista Cool and I, and now she makes them for Lincoln. The theme, you may be able to tell, was monkeys. (Although elephants also played a key role.)

When I first turned on my camera, it was set on black & white, which did allow me to capture this lovely image of Lincoln playing his first "Pin the Tail On . . . "Game, "Pin the Banana on the Monkey." It was a wonderful party, and I am already thinking about next year.

Cutie Pie Thursday: Professional Pics

2011-06-02T20:25:00.000-06:00

Continuing our tradition, we went and took Lincoln and family snaps right before his birthday. We also decided to continue to be huge nerds, and wear our "matching" Star Wars t-shirts. Here you can see an attempt at mother/son pictures, with Lincoln doing a spot-on Thinker impersonation while ensconced in a leather armchair with Obi-Wan Bearnobi.

A close-up of the wee lad in leather and Chewbacca.

Our best family shot--in full on nerdery attire. Even Mr. Cool is smiling!

I love this little cutie--and Portrait Innovations! If you have one nearby, try it out! It's tough to be cheap, though, when your spawn is this cute!

Did Picasso Start with Toys?

2011-06-01T20:21:00.000-06:00

This shot is a bit blurry, as Lincoln has been messing with my camera, but I think we can all see what the lad is up to.

Oh, wait. Now he's coloring on paper. Sneaky. I thought I saw him coloring Buzz Lightyear, though, right?

Ah-ha! Zoom in on Buzz, and you can see the tell-tale signs of coloring. Luckily for him, it's washable marker. Just a quick makeover. (You can also see multiple uncapped markers. We're working on the whole picking-up idea.)

Branding

2011-05-31T20:17:00.000-06:00

This is the real high point of branding, especially for a small kid. A plate full of beef, beans, and bread, with butterhorns to come.

Grandad Cool selects a branding iron. This is where a certain organization might flag my blog as evil.

I thought this a particularly nice shot of the brand on the back of a calf, with horses and chaps-clad cowboys visible as well. It was a gray and cool day for a branding, but the light was quite nice for photos. It did prove to me that I need a new camera.

Cutie Pie Monday, Or Where Have We Been?

2011-05-30T20:15:00.001-06:00

In addition to eating raspberries, Lincoln has visited branding, colored Buzz, taken professional pictures, turned 2, and had a busy month. Mom's been crafting, party throwing, and hauling him around. Sorry to be late--we will have a week-long post-a-thon to apologize!

Cutie Pie Thursday: Big Boy Eating a Banana

2011-05-19T07:40:00.000-06:00

Mr. Cool needed photographic proof of how old our son is getting: he is holding and eating a giant, whole, banana!

Which he is thoroughly enjoying!

And he'll tell you all about it!

Monkey Mania

2011-05-15T12:33:00.000-06:00

Sometimes, when you are capable of a craft, and an occasion presents itself, you fall into a trap. A jungle birthday party for Lincoln, heavy on the monkeys/Curious George? Favors? Monkey Finger Puppets? I would need 8? I can do that!

And suddenly you find yourself with piles of monkey parts and a deep hatred for the colors brown and tan, and the assembly on 7 monkeys to go.

And then, just like all things in life, when you apply yourself and work hard, you finish. They may not be perfect, but they are clearly monkey finger puppets.

All told, I knit: 8 bodies, 8 noses, 8 faces, 8 tails, 16 arms, and 16 ears. Then I sewed them together and embroidered 16 eyes, 16 nostrils, and 8 smile/smirks.

This picture makes me think a bit of "The Birds." Perched monkeys at the park, waiting.

Cutie Pie Thursday: Washing Hats

2011-05-12T07:29:00.001-06:00

After knitting hats for Sista Cool's new sprout, I had to give them a wash. Stand on the toilet and splash in water? Lincoln was SO there!

Bubbles and Water and Hats, oh my!

Since this momentous event, he has been wandering into the bathroom, throwing his hats in the sink, and saying, "Washa my hats, mom!"

Hats for a New Nephew!

2011-05-09T12:24:00.004-06:00

A Pumpkin

An Apple (tee-hee)

A Brain Slug?

Cutie Pie Thursday: Sanctioned Packing Peanut Fun

2011-05-05T07:34:00.000-06:00

Sometimes, I don't think photos need a lot of captions. Here you can follow the journey of Lincoln and a box of packing peanuts. We also discovered they dissolved, leading to some fun times around the sink. Oh, and the last picture? Mama asked him to smile!

Where I Am Right Now

2011-04-29T02:25:00.000-06:00

On the couch, with my knitting and and digestive biscuits, watching the Royal Wedding Pre-Game and getting ready for the Main Event.

Per the request of my beloved Hannah, this is what I am working on. He will not be done by the end of the wedding, but hopefully within the year. I have enough yarn to make a Cate, a QE2, and a corgi as well.

Keep Calm and Knit On!

Cutie Pie Monday: First Easter Egg Hunt!

2011-04-25T07:24:00.003-06:00

Hey, what is this?

An egg!

I see another egg!

Two eggs! Two eggs!

Two eggs! (He then promptly took them over to his small friend and put them in his bag!)

Cutie Pie Thursday: We Climbed Into the Tunnel

2011-04-21T06:06:00.000-06:00

Using personally cut PVC, hair bands, binder clips, and an old sheet, Mr. Cool crafted a tunnel for our small boy. Prior to this, Lincoln was using under the table as his primary tunnel. His horse is already fond of the tunnel.

Here are my guys deep within the tunnel! It has added a bit of an obstacle course feel to our daily "Run, mama!" sessions!

Pamba Toto Party!

2011-04-19T05:58:00.002-06:00

On Saturday the lovely Jennie and I hosted a Pamba Toto party in the Springs. Unfortunately, almost all of my photos involved backsides. Sorry, ladies! Here's a few that show off my lovely sister, the lovely wares, and Jennie's lovely home!

Look at those beautiful Kenyan scarves! If you can zoom in you can see the fun toys and soapstone hippos we had at this party as well! It was quite fun and successful, and I hope to do another again soon! Thanks so much, Jennie and Sarah!

Cutie Pie Thursday: Take My Picture

2011-04-14T09:20:00.002-06:00

These are the results of a Lincoln-ordered photo session. He really enjoys seeing the pictures of the "baby", and I think he's starting to make the connection that he is the delightful baby!

After this one was taken, he said his "nose itchy!"

Favorite Things: The Good Wife

2011-04-13T15:13:00.000-06:00

It just won a Peabody, so there probably isn't much I can add to its acclaim, but if you are not watching The Good Wife, find the first season on DVD and get into this great show. Tuesday is my best night of TV, and I probably get way too excited about it (Glee! Raising Hope! The Good Wife!), but small things like that get you through a stay-at-home mom week. Here's why I love it:

1. The Acting: Alan Cumming! Juliana Margulies! Archie Punjabi! Roger Rees in a guest role as an arson investigator! Chris Noth! Michael J. Fox as Alicia's nemesis--using his disability to gain jury respect! Everyone on this show is a superb actor--really, truly, superb--some of them are doing their best work or close to it.

2. The Cases: Every trial is new, different, and exciting! They have made me care deeply about class action suits.

3. The Love Triangle: It does not/will not/may not go how you expect it to go--no one is perfect (except maybe Alicia).

4. The Campaign: Alan Cumming is amazing as Eli Gold. Enough said.

5. Something Happens Every Week: There are about three-four storylines handled gracefully and smoothly every week--some plots move along, some slow down, but I am never disappointed by the arcs followed.

What can I say? I love this show--watch it!

Feminist Failure?

2011-04-11T15:12:00.000-06:00

I've been reading Gail Collins's books on the history of feminism in America, and I'm feeling a bit like a feminist failure: I majored in English and taught HS English (she argues that teachers are low-paid because it is/was a traditionally female career path), was married right out of college (I only ever lived in my father's/husband's home, never on my own), and I am currently staying home raising a child and doing all the laundry.

Can I do all this and still be a feminist in my heart and mind? Why didn't I become a doctor or a lawyer? I know I still have feminist beliefs, but am I acting out on them? Just some musings on a slow day of mothering and emptying the dishwasher.

Stay-at-Home Mom Files: Knitted Swiffer Pad

2011-04-10T14:43:00.000-06:00

Yes. Believe your eyes, because it's true. I knitted a swiffer cover. Why, you may ask? Why would I use my precious baby-hat/monkey finger puppet knitting time on a swiffer cover?

Because I am cheap. To cheap to pay for the real things. And, it only took me two evenings, the fabulous Mason-Dixon Knitting Swifty pattern, and multiple scraps of Lily Sugar 'n Cream. (Nephews and nieces could spot their Christmas washcloths.) The verdict: it works great--just as well as a regular swiffer cloth, and you just toss it into the wash and re-use it. Bonus: great for the environment! Now I just need to make one for Lincoln's swiffer--after I knit a baby hat and another monkey finger puppet--I have deadlines for those!

It's Been a Long Week

2011-04-08T14:49:00.003-06:00

Put on some Curious George, mama, and crack me open a cold juice box.

(For those of you following the travails of sick Lincoln, we returned to the doctor today to discover bronchitis and a continued ear infection. Stronger antibiotics are at work, although I must also report he is still cheerful and running around and saying, "Oh, snap!" whenever appropriate.)

Cutie Pie Thursdays: March Outtakes

2011-04-07T07:12:00.000-06:00

Lounging on top of the couch while sick.

Distracted by photogenic cousins.

Working the shades.

Turning on the full charm of the baby blues.

Modeling the sweatsuit look.

Cutie Pie Thursday: Bringing the Cute

2011-03-31T11:32:00.002-06:00

Because some weeks, you just need one really cute picture.

Very Great and Very Grand

2011-03-24T10:34:00.002-06:00

Four Generations in June 2009

Great-Grandpa Bill with a sleepy baby Lincoln--he was indeed a very great and very grand Grandpa, and we will all miss him.

Cutie Pie Thursday: March Madness Begins!

2011-03-17T07:07:00.000-06:00

"Shoot the basketball!"

"Slam Dunk!"

The first two captions are actual phrases of the wee hoopster, but on the occasion of this stunt dunk gone awry, he didn't have much to say. I didn't see exactly what happened, whether Woody was trying to do a windmill dunk that didn't quite work, or if Lincoln tried to dunk Woody. My money's on the latter.

Birthday Bird

2011-03-13T09:36:00.000-06:00

I knitted this bird, another great pattern from KnitWit for my lovely sister for her birthday! I guess I am starting a trend of knitting toys for birthdays this year!

I made him/her from scraps of the yarn I used for Sista Cool's hat last year, and found some lovely wool felt at The Little Wool Shoppe in Loveland.

I think he has almost as much spunky personality as she does!

Yes Yes Wool

2011-03-12T16:07:00.000-07:00

My reading mitts, made in 100% Malabrigo Purple Mystery Wool. No angora here!

I made mine a bit shorter than mom's, and due to the less fuzzy nature of wool, they look a bit tighter and less fuzzy. They are still warm and super soft.

While they are reading mitts, I find they also work great for using touchscreens!

Cutie Pie Thursday: Quick, Grab a Camera!

2011-03-10T07:02:00.001-07:00

Quick, grab a camera! Lincoln is playing with the squash!

Quick, grab a camera! Lincoln is trying to get himself ready to go out! (If you look closely, you can see that his left shoe is on backwards.)

Now can we get smoothies, mom?

Cutie Pie Thursday: Where Did Lincoln Go?

2011-03-03T09:30:00.002-07:00

Is he underneath that blanket?

Boo!

Maybe he'll hide just one more time!

Boo! Mommy found him again! (By the way, he has been pulling the blanket over his head and saying, "Where did Lincoln go?" It is insanely cute, although I hope he won't start a lifelong habit of referring to himself in the third person!)

Cutie Pie Thursday: Bring on the Cute

2011-02-24T11:29:00.003-07:00

Hey, everybody. Have you been missing my cute face? Well, I'm pretty much recovered, and feeling my oats as an almost-2-year-old. Ask mom about it.

I really like balls and horses. Sometimes I manage to balance my horses on a football. Impressive, no? The force is strong with me!

I also like to wear hats. The more, the merrier! I like to wear three hats--I also like to make mama wear a hat, even when she complains that its crunching her hair that she recently styled, and that she really doesn't like to wear daddy's stinky old hats. I don't care. I rule the roost! Oh, wait. I'll be back after some quick bedroom time.

I also really like riding my horse! He says "neigh" and so do I. I can mount him myself.

Sometimes he can get a little wild, just like me! I'm watching mama type this, and I'm yelling, "Baby and horse!"

Sock Blocking

2011-02-23T08:40:00.000-07:00

After I finished my socks, I wanted to block 'em like the pros. So, I MacGyver'ed up some sock blockers out of wire hangers and electrical tape.

My blocking socks then hung fetchingly in the shower to dry.

This shot of the toe came out quite good, I felt, but it lacks a sense of the true color, which is much more of a deep, foresty green.

A shot of my feet luxuriating in Dream in Color Smooshy yarn, knit in a basic sock pattern. My gauge was a bit loose, and my knitting is not perfect, but these are truly the most magical socks I have ever worn. I can't wait to knit up more, and hopefully improve my sock picture taking skills!

A Quick (?) Scarf

2011-02-21T16:37:00.000-07:00

Knit in alternating stripes of Patons Soy Wool Stripes, I started this scarf for my dear friend 2(!) years ago, and finally finished it in time for her birthday this year. I copied the idea from famous knitblogger Jared Flood's striped Noro scarf, but in a more economical yarn.

Cutie Pie Sunday: Recovery

2011-02-20T16:34:00.001-07:00

The small bug has almost completely recovered from his small bug, and now that I've put new batteries in the camera, we should have some new pictures coming soon. I did still have left on the camera some recovery pictures, from his first really doing better day. We snacked on crackers and watched "Buzz & Woody."

No No Angora

2011-02-12T09:48:00.000-07:00

Susie's Reading Mitts

Mama Cool gave me the dreamy Cascade Cloud 9 yarn (50% wool, 50% angora), along with the needles and pattern for these beautiful fingerless mitts. The yarn was soft, the pattern engaging, and I knit them up in four days. Sadly, my old bunny allergy reared its ugly head, and I knit them with watery, itchy, swollen eyes. I have passed them along to my beautiful Mama Cool, in hopes that she can enjoy them, and I plan to knit a new pair for myself, probably in an all-wool yarn.

Cutie Pie Thursday: Welcome to the Vomitorium

2011-02-10T09:43:00.003-07:00

Tuesday began our first odyssey into the world of pukey children. We know we were pretty lucky to make it past 20 months, but we also now know that this is the toughest, grossest, saddest part of parenting. On Tuesday, he still felt chipper enough to use his "emergency" bowl as a hat.

Later, he began to feel sicker, so that most of yesterday was spent sleeping on mom. Today, he's still a bit sleepy, but definitely more chipper. He's been telling me about his toys, identifying coats and shoes, and I'm hoping we've turned the bend. Much thanks and love to all parents out there who have dealt with the Cool parents as sick kids, or dealt with sick kids of your own.

Cutie Pie Sundae, Or Ice Cream Cone

2011-02-03T11:53:00.002-07:00

I liked it when you were feeding me ice cream with the spoon, dad. What's this thing? A "cone," you say? With ice cream in it? Ah, well, I guess I'll give it a try.

So, I put it in my mouth like this, huh? Pretty straightforward. I can do that! (His mama would like it noted that he did not get any ice cream on anything!)

Oh, yeah. That's the stuff. Ice creamy goodness.

Peace, Love, Robot: A Knitted Toy Process

2011-01-29T11:15:00.000-07:00

The robot I made for Brotha-in-law Cool's birthday began as a pile of knitted pieces: 8, in fact, in grey Patons Classic Wool, with Cascade and Lamb's Pride scraps forming the arms, legs, and ear/antenna.

Next, following clever instructions from KnitWit (a gift from my hubby) and my favorite Mochimochi knits, I had it seamed together quite well--best toy seaming yet!

Finally, using wool felt scraps from my mother and the blanket stitch and backstitch, I had a slightly sinister robot.

He's not perfect, and I don't know yet if the Brotha-in-law likes him, but I hope so. He was fun to make--I finished the embroidery while watching Blades of Glory, which I don't think he liked--hence the expression!