2 Knit Lit Chicks

Our Sweater KAL is ongoing  until January 15, 2016.  Complete an adult sweater and post it in the FOs thread to be eligible a great prize package that will include:

 

  • A 2015 NoCKRs retreat bag
  • A package of Yarn Cozies
  • A sweater’s quantity of yarn (thank you to SandyKnitsSocks!)
  • And more!

 

 

Tracie and Barb will be at Stitches West  - February 18-21, 2016 in Santa Clara, California.  Come join us in the bar on Saturday afternoon for our meet-up with the Yarniacs and lots of other fun people!

 

Tracie and Barb will also be at 2 NoCKRs - the 2016 Northern California Knitting Retreat - registration is full.

 

Thanks to SandraMaz, the proprietress of the SweetSerendipity37 shop on Easy and friend to our podcast, there will be a 2 Knit Lit Chicks Swap!  You have until January 10th to sign up.  Go to the swap thread on our boards and follow the instructions in the first post.  Both Tracie and Barb will be participating - this will be fun!

 

Would you like to see your pattern in the next Madame Defarge book,  A Madame and a Detective Walked Into a Bar… Defarge Does Sherlock?  If so, please click here to get all the info on submission from Erica Hernandez.

 

Be sure to enter the contest to win a KC pattern package from Knit Companion, here.  We will announce the winners on the next podcast.

 

Barb has no FOs.  How weird is that?

 

Tracie has finished:

 

Leap! fingerless gloves by Brooke Ramos (free pattern) in FishKnits Boot Strap in Fat Tuesday colorway for Rachel.  Fingers part was very fiddly but fun!

 

Deep Fork Hat by Heather Brumbelow-Scott in Lion Brand Alpine Wool (Black) and Schachenmayr SMC Boston in Orange - quick Giants hat for Chad for Christmas

 

Barb has cast on:

Vanilla Socks using Fishknits Warm Heart 2-ply in the Cadillac colorway

Winter Wander Shawl by Helen Stewart, using Invictus Yarns Victorious in the Exotic colorway.

Geometry Scarf by Knitculture.com, using Universal Yarns Classic Shades in a fall-colors colorway.

 

And she continues to work on:

Etched Rio Wrap by Sarah Smuland, using Cascade 220 Sport in a dark gray colorway ($9)

Grandpa Cardigan by Joji Locatelli, using Cascade Cash Vero DK (a cashmere, (a merino, microfiber, and cashmere blend) in a royal blue colorway (a $6.50 pattern).  

 

Tracie has cast on:

Shalom Cardigan by Meghan McFarlane in Araucania Tepa (bulky, wool/mohair/silk).  Second try!

Vanilla socks with Fish Lips Kiss Heel in Knit Picks Felici (Baker Street colorway) for Will

Fletcher hat by Elizabeth Doherty in Universal Yarn Uptown DK Anti Pilling Acrylic in the Granite colorway - for Kevin

 

And she continues working on:

 The Starshower cowl by Hilary Smith Callis, using La Bien Aimee MCN Light in the Jon Snow colorway.

The Meditate cowl by Elizabeth Doherty, using Redfish Dyeworks Silk Sock.

 The Longstreet shawl by Nancy Totten using Abstract Fibers Temptation in The Gorge colorway.

 

Tracie and Barb reviewed Modern Lopi: One (New Approaches to An Icelandic Classic) by Lars Rains.  To win a copy of the ebook, leave a comment here.

 

Barb really enjoyed I Remember You by Yrsa Sigurdardottir

 

She has also finished reading:

In a Dark Dark Wood by Ruth Ware

The Admissions by Meg Mitchell Moore

The Far End of Happy by Kathryn Craft

 

Tracie highly recommends The Bassoon King: My Life in Art, Faith, and Idiocy by Rainn Wilson and The Forgotten Ones by Brian McGilloway

 

She also finished reading:

The Family by Marissa Kennerson

The Kind Worth Killing by Peter Swanson

Double Life: The Shattering Affair between Chief Judge Sol Wachtler and Socialite Joy Silverman by Linda Wolfe

The Flight of Gemma Hardy by Margot Livesey

 

Barb is very much enjoying both Norman Bray in the Performance of His Life by Trevor Cole and Ferris Beach by Jill McCorkle

 

 

Tracie is enjoying Miss Tonks Turns to Crime by M.C. Beaton writing as Marian Chesney and The Harder They Come by T.C. Boyle

 

Direct download: 2KLC_ep_105.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 1:34pm PDT

Book Talk Begins at 57:30

Recorded on Wednesday, December 9, 2015

Our Sweater KAL is ongoing!  You have until January 15, 2016 to complete an adult sweater and be eligible a great prize package that will include:

  • A 2015 NoCKRs retreat bag
  • A package of Yarn Cozies
  • A sweater’s quantity of yarn (thank you to SandyKnitsSocks!)
  • And more!

Tracie and Barb will be at Stitches West  - February 18-21, 2016 in Santa Clara, California.  Come join us in the bar on Saturday afternoon for our meet-up with the Yarniacs and lots of other fun people!

Tracie and Barb will also be at 2 NoCKRs - the 2016 Northern California Knitting Retreat - registration is full.

KNITTING

Barb has finished:

*  Baa-ble Hat #1 and #2 (pictured here), using Plymouth Yarns Galway Worsted in various colors.

*  Zigzagular Socks by Susie White, using Desert Vista Dyeworks Viso in the Zombody Loves the 2 Knit Lit Chicks colorway.

*  Rachel's Rollers (Rose City Rollers socks) by Susie White, using GnomeAcres Fancy Gnome in the Aurora Gnomealis color way

Tracie has finished:

Tri-Peak hat by Woolly Wormed, using Classic Elite Yarns Waterlily in the 1938 colorway.

*  Two Little Hats - no patterns and she has no idea what the yarns are.

*  Perpendicular Cowl by Brenda Castiel using Cascade Elysian in the 08 colorway and Jojoland Splatter Dash in the 002 colorway.


*  Saddleback Cardigan by Jennifer Hagen in Valley Yarns Goshen

Barb is working on:

*  The Grandpa Cardigan by Joji Locatelli, using Cascade Yarns Cash Vero DK in a royal blue colorway (this yarn is discontinued).

*  Etched Rio Wrap by Sarah Smuland, usingCascade 220 Sport in the Charcoal Gray colorway.

Tracie is working on:

* The Starshower cowl by Hilary Smith Callis, using La Bien Aimee MCN Light in the Jon Snow colorway.

*  The Meditate cowl by Elizabeth Doherty, using Redfish Dyeworks Silk Sock.

*  Leap! fingerless gloves by Brooke Ramos in Fishknits Boot Strap in the Fat Tuesday colorway.

*  The Longstreet shawl by Nancy Totten using Abstract Fibers Temptation in The Gorge colorway.

BOOKS

 

Barb has finished:

*  Beyond Belief: My Secret Life Inside Scientology, and My Harrowing Escape by Jenna Miscavige Hill - Barb recommends this book!

*  Forsaken by Andrew Van Wey - Barb was very "meh" about this one.

 

Tracie has finished:

*  Ferris Beach by Jill McCorkle - Tracie highly recommends this book!

*  The Woman Who Walked in Sunshine by Alexander McCall Smith - recommended.

 

Barb is currently reading:

*  The Far End of Happy by Kathryn Craft

*  The Admissions by Meg Mitchell Moore

 

Barb Did Not Finish: 

*  The Alphabet of Birds by S.J. Naude.  She just couldn't do it.

 

Tracie is currently reading: 

*  The Family by Marissa Kennerson

*  Double Life: The Shaterring Affair between Chief Judge Sol Wachtler and Socialite Joy Silverman by Linda Wolfe

*  The Kind Worth Killing by Peter Swanson

Tracie's Thumbs Up was Carrie Fisher - check her out in this great interview!

Carrie's dog now has his own Instagram account!  He's @garyfisher - the Chicks are following him now - you should too!

 

 

 

Direct download: Episode_104.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:33pm PDT

Our Fall Sweater KAL is ongoing until Jan 16.  Post your FO in the FOs thread to be entered to win one of 4 fabulous prize packages that will contain:

A 2015 NoCKRs retreat bag

A package of Yarn Cozies

A sweater’s quantity of yarn (thank you to SandyKnitsSocks!)

And more!

New podcast – Unraveling with Greg (KnittingDaddy) and Joey (JoeyGibson)

Barb also recommends Two Ewes Fiber Adventures with Kelly and Marsha, and Teaching Your Brain to Knit with Margaret and Catherine.

Tracie and Barb will be at Stitches West  - February 18-21, 2016 in Santa Clara, California.  Come join us in the bar on Saturday afternoon for our meet-up with the Yarniacs and lots of other fun people!

Tracie and Barb will also be at 2 NoCKRs - the 2016 Northern California Knitting Retreat - registration is full.

Barb has been busy!  She has finished:

Over & Over Cowl & Infinity Loop by Churchmouse Yarns and Teas, using Duren Dyeworks

Tappee Hattee by Allison Britt, using Dizzy Blond Studios Superwash DK in the Camilla colorway (free)

Maize Mitts #2 by Tin Can Knits, using Leading Men Fiber Arts Showcase Worsted in the Love Potion #9 colorway (free)

Barley Hat #2 by Tin Can Knits using Leading men Fiber arts Showcase Worsted in the Love Potion #9 colorway (free)

Minecraft Creeper Beanie by Tracy McDowell using a bright green color of Vanna’s Choice and Plymouth Encore Black.

Tracie finished:

Fair Winds Beanie by Churchmouse Yarns and Teas in Alpenglow Yarn Skinny Singular Corrie in Mermaid Tail

Barb cast on:

Rose City Rollers by Mara Catherine Bryner using GnomeAcres Fancy Gnome in the Aurora Gnomealis colorway.

Baa-ble Hat by Donna Smith, using 4 colors of Plymouth Galway Worsted.

And she continues to work on

Zigzagular Socks by  Susie White, using Desert Vista Dyeworks Viso in the Zombody Loves the 2 Knit Lit Chicks colorway (free)

Etched Rio Wrap by Sarah Smuland, using Cascade 220 Sport in a dark gray colorway ($9)

Tracie cast on:

Tri-Peak by Woolly Wormed in Classic Elite Yarns Waterlily

And is working on:

Perpendicular Cowl by Brenda Castiel, using Cascade Elysian in the 08 colorway and Jojoland Splatter Dash in the 002 colorway.

Longstreet by Nancy Totten (Front Range Bags), using Abstract Fiber Temptations in The Gorge colorway

Saddleback Cardigan by Jennifer Hagan, using Valley Yarns Goshen.

Leap! fingerless gloves by Brooke Ramos (free pattern) in FishKnits Boot Strap in Fat Tuesday Colorway

Barb finished:

Stranded by Jeff Probst and Chris Tebbetts

Working Stiff: Two years, 262 Bodies and the Making of a Medical Examiner by Judy Melinik & TJ Mitchell

Tracie finished:

Endangered Species by Nevada Barr

Bad Blood by John Sanford

Almost the Perfect Murder: The Killing of Elaine O'Hara, the Extraordinary Garda Investigation and the Trial That Stunned the Nation: The Only Complete Inside Account by Paul Williams

The Wonderful Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum

Barb is reading:

Beyond Belief:  My Secret Life Inside Scientology and My Harrowing Escape by Jenna Miscavige Hill

The Alphabet of Birds by S. J. Naude

Forsaken by Andrew Van Wey

Tracie is reading

The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up by Marie Kondo

The Woman Who Walked in the Sunshine by Alexander McCall Smith

The Family by Marissa Kennerson

 

Direct download: 2KLC_ep_203.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:43am PDT

Recorded on November 12, 2015

Book Talk starts at 35:16

Our Fall Sweater KAL is ongoing until Jan 16.  Post your FO in the FOs thread to be entered to win one of 4 fabulous prize packages that will contain:

A 2015 NoCKRs retreat bag

A package of Yarn Cozies

A sweater’s quantity of yarn (thank you to SandyKnitsSocks!)

And more!

Listen all the way to the end of  the podcast to find out if you won:

One of the two project bags donated by Daisy of Art Institchtute of Chicago 

or

The new pattern  A View from the Charles, designed and donated by Jennifer Lassonde

 

Tracie and Barb will be at Stitches West  - February 18-21, 2016 in Santa Clara, California.  Come join us in the bar on Saturday afternoon for our meet-up with the Yarniacs and lots of other fun people!

 

Tracie and Barb will also be at 2 NoCKRs - the 2016 Northern California Knitting Retreat - registration is full.

 

Barb has finished:

Test knit: Meditate Cowl by Elizabeth Doherty

Nordic Trail Vest #2 by Elizabeth Smith

Classic World War II  Watch Cap by Helen Waitts.  Barb highly recommends this free pattern if you have someone with a really large head to knit for.

 

Tracie has finished a lot of hats!

Berry Baby Hat by Michele Sabatier

Garter Ear Flap Hat by Purl Soho

Plum Tree Slouch by Alana Dakos

Third Grade from Elementary Hats by Leslie Gordon

 

Barb’s Current Knitting Projects: 

Zigzagular Socks by  Susie White, using Desert Vista Dyeworks Viso in the Zombody Loves the 2 Knit Lit Chicks colorway (free)

Over & Over Cowl & Infinity Loop by Churchmouse Yarns and Teas, using Duren Dyeworks

 

And she has cast on:

Etched Rio Wrap by Sarah Smuland, using Cascade 220 Sport in a dark gray colorway ($9)

Tappee Hattee by Allison Britt, using Dizzy Blond Studios Superwash DK in the Camilla colorway (free)

 

Tracie is working on:

Perpendicular Cowl by Brenda Castiel, using Cascade Elysian in the 08 colorway and Jojoland Splatter Dash in the 002 colorway.

Longstreet by Nancy Totten (Front Range Bags), using Abstract Fiber Temptations in The Gorge colorway

Saddleback Cardigan by Jennifer Hagan, using Valley Yarns Goshen.

She has cast on:

Leap! fingerless gloves by Brooke Ramos (free pattern) in FishKnits Boot Strap in Fat Tuesday Colorway

 

Barb has finished:

Sense and Sensibility by Jane Austen

People Who Eat Darkness:  The Fate of Lucie Blackman by Richard Lloyd Parry

The Mountain Between Us by Charles Martin 

The Haunting of Maddy Clare by Simone St. James

 

Real Happy Family by Caeli Wolfson Widger

Don’t Try to Find Me by Holly Brown

The True History of the Elephant Man by Michael Howell

 

Barb is reading:

Stranded by Jeff Probst and Chris Tebbetts

The Alphabet of Birds by S. J. Naude

 

Tracie is reading

The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up by Marie Kondo

Endangered Species by Nevada Barr

Bad Blood by John Sanford

 

Barb says thumbs up to Pumpkin Spice cream cheese

 

Tracie says thumbs up to the Fargo tv series - Season 1 is available on Hulu Plus, and Season 2 is in progress on FX

 

Direct download: 2KLC_ep_102.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:24pm PDT

Book Talk Starts at 43:14

Recorded on October 30, 2015

 

Our Sweater KAL is still going strong!  You have until January 15, 2016 to compete a sweater, enter it into our Sweater FO Thread to win a prize.

 

We have 2 project bags to give away from Art Institchtute of Chicago.  Go here to enter!  This contest will end on November 15, 2015.

 

New giveaway!  Thank you to BostonJen for donating a copy of her new shawl pattern,  View from the Charles.  To enter, please go to the thread on our Ravelry forum and comment on:

  1.  Your favorite handknit shawl
  2.  Any shawl knitting adventure
  3.  If you have never knitted a shawl, tell us that!

 

This contest will end on November 15th.

Barb and Tracie recommend the Wild Plum Etsy Shoppe for cute handmade children's gifts - bandana dresses, pacifier clips, tote bags, crayon and coloring bags, etc.

 

Tracie and Barb will be at Stitches West  - February 18-21, 2016 in Santa Clara, California.  Come join us in the bar on Saturday afternoon for our meet-up with the Yarniacs and lots of other fun people!

 

Tracie and Barb will also be at 2 NoCKRs - the 2016 Northern California Knitting Retreat!  Open registration for a limited number of spots is open October 15-November 15.  Send an email to us at 2knitlitchicks@gmail.com for information and applications.

 

KNITTING

Barb has finished:

 

*  Her Helvetica Cardigan by Elizabeth Doherty.  She used Berroco Indigo yarn (recycled cotton) in the Cut-Offs colorway.  She is very happy with the way this cardigan stays on her shoulders!

 

*  The Perpendicular Cowl by Brenda Castiel, using Knit Picks Swish DK in the Orange and Coal colorways.

 

*  Barley Hat #1 and Maize Mits #1 by Tin Can Knits, both using Dancing Dog Dyeworks Waltz Worsted in the Sugar Skulls colorway.

Tracie has finished:

*  Wanda Estelle poncho by Debbie Stone, using Kollage Yarns Fantastic in Slate Green (pictured at left) and she loves it!


*  Endearment cardigan by Hanna Maciejewska, using Jill Draper Makes Stuff Esopus in the Sapphire colorway.


*  A pair of vanilla socks in Knitting Rose Budding Tracks Sock Set in Good Will Hunting Ombre.


*  Full-Tilt hat by Laura Wilson-MartosCascade Yarns Elysian in a purple colorway.


*  Beetle Cap (Lippapipo on Ravelry) by Veera Valimaki, using Newton’s Yarn Country DK Superwash Merino Nylon.



Barb is working on:

*  Zigzagular Socks by Susie White, using Desert Vista Dyeworks Viso in the Zombody Loves the 2 Knit Lit Chicks colorway.

 

*  Over & Over Cowl & Infinity Loop by Churchmouse Yarns and Teas, using Duren DyeWorks Love Fingering in the Witchy Woo Woo colorway.

 

*  Nordic Trail Vest by Elizabeth Smith, using Cascade Yarns Ecological Wool in the Latte colorway.

 

*  A secret test knit for Elizabeth Doherty.

 

Tracie is working on:

*  Perpendicular Cowl by Brenda Castiel, using Cascade Elysian in the 08 colorway and Jojoland Splatter Dash in the 002 colorway.


*  Longstreet by Nancy Totten (Front Range Bags), using Abstract Fiber Temptations in The Gorge colorway


*  Saddleback Cardigan by Jennifer Hagan, using Valley Yarns Goshen.



BOOKS

 

Barb has finished:

*  A Deadly Game: The Untold Story of the Scott Peterson Investigation by Catherine Crier - she heartily recommends this book for fans of the True Crime genre.

 

*  Olive Kitteridge by Elizabeth Strout - she recommends this book.

 

Tracie did not finish:  I'll Give You the Sun by Jandy Nelson

 

Tracie has finished:

*  I Hated Hated Hated This Movie by Roger Ebert - she recommends it!

 

*  The King of Pain: A Novel with Stories by Seth Kaufman

 

*  The Boy in the Suitcase by Lene Kaaberbol.

 

*  The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin - highly recommended!

 

Barb is continuing to read:

*  Sense and Sensibility by Jane Austen, listening to it through the excellent CraftLit Podcast.

 

*  The Haunting of Maddy Clare by Simone St. James - Barb says that it's a good read for Halloween!

 

*  People Who Eat Darkness: The Fate of Lucie Blackman by Richard Lloyd Perry.

 

Tracie is currently reading:

*  Don't Try to Find Me by Holly Brown.

 

In Thumbs Up/Thumbs Down, Tracie talked about a new character on Sesame Street named Julia.  Julia has autism, and becomes Elmo's friend.  Thumbs Up to you, Sesame Street!

Direct download: Episode101.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:45am PDT

Book Talk starts at 34:30

Recorded October 10, 2015 at the CogKnitive Fiber Retreat in Tehachapi, CA.  A great time was had by all, of course – great job to GemmaDW and loretta1031 for organizing such a fun event!

 

Our Fall Sweater 2015 KAL will be running from September 15, 2015 to January 15, 2016.  Come and join us.  Knit or crochet an adult-size cardigan or pullover - any style, any weight yarn.

 

New giveaway – Daisy of Art Institchtute of Chicago has given us 2 of her project bags to give away.  1 in a Day of the Dead fabric, and 1 in a Raven fabric.  To enter, please go over to Art Institchtute of Chicago Etsy shop and tell us your favorite fabric in the thread.

 

Tracie went many wonderful places, saw many wonderful things, ate many wonderful foods, and just all around had a wonderful time on her 15-day trip to France!  A few of the yarniest highlights…

 

Her yarn crawl with Barbara of Stitching Up Paris Needlecraft Tours was so much fun!  Barbara is a knitter and seamstress from New Zealand who puts what she’s learned from her 30 years living in Paris to take you to shop for whatever strikes your fancy: yarn, fabric, notions, etc.  She took Tracie to 8 yarn stores, finishing up with lunch here at L'Oisivethé, which doubles as a café.

 

 

On the night of September 30, Sacha Laurin’s Kombucha Couture collection showed at the Espace Pierre Cardin in Paris – including Tracie’s knit Kombucha dress:

 

The collection got lots of great feedback, and it was a thrilling night!

 

Tracie also got to meet Laurence (Rav name Lolacha), a listener and fellow podcaster!  They had a great afternoon talking over lunch about knitting, podcasting, learning languages, parenting and all sort of other things!  Laurence is the host of Maille Podcast.

photo

  

Tracie and Barb will be at Stitches West  - February 18-21, 2016 in Santa Clara, California.  Come join us in the bar on Saturday afternoon for our meet-up with the Yarniacs and lots of other fun people!

 

Tracie and Barb will also be at 2 NoCKRs - the 2016 Northern California Knitting Retreat!  Open registration for a limited number of spots is open October 15-November 15.  Send an email to us at 2knitlitchicks@gmail.com for information and applications.

 

Barb’s FOs:

Irish Hiking Hat #1 by Blackhorse for SIL using Duren Dyeworks Kindness Aran in a purple colorway.  Followed pattern exactly.

Irish Hiking Hat #2 , also for a gift  – modified by using 1x1 ribbing for the brim, and also added a pom pom.

Wild Goose  Shawlette by Paula Emmons-Fuesle, using GnomeAcres Fancy Gnome (MCN blend) in the Aurora Gnomealis colorway

Dodgson #2 by the Berroco Design Team, using Berroco Boboli in the Strawberry Jam colorway

Crackerjack Cowl by Stacy Simpson Duke – using Plymouth Select Merino DK in orange, black, white and gray.

 

Tracie didn’t get much knitting done in France, but she did work on her

Vanilla socks in Knitting Rose Budding Tracks Sock Set in Good Will Hunting Ombre and  Endearment cardigan by Hanna Maciejewska, using Jill Draper Makes Stuff Esopus in the Sapphire colorway.Her other projects got no love.

 

Barb is working on:

Perpendicular Cowl by Brenda Castiel, using Knit Picks Swish Worsted in 2 colors – Orange and Coal

Helvetica cardigan by Elizabeth Doherty, using Berroco Indigo in the Cut-Offs colorway

Zigzagular Socks by  Susie White, using Desert Vista Dyeworks Viso in the Zombody Loves the 2 Knit Lit Chicks colorway

She also cast on the Maize Mitts by Tin Can Knits, using Dancing Dog Dyeworks Worsted in the Sugar Skulls colorway

 

Barb’s Books:

Sense and Sensibility by Jane Austen

Olive Kitteridge by Elizabeth Strout

A Deadly Game: The Untold Story of the Scott Peterson Investigation by Catherine Crier

Evil Harvest: The True Story of Cult Murder in the American Heartland by Rod Colvin

Attachments by Rainbow Rowell

 

Tracie’s Books

The Girl On the Train by Paula Hawkins

I Hated Hated Hated Hated This Movie by Roger Ebert

 

The Boy in the Suitcase by Lene Kaaberbøl

Direct download: 2KLC_ep_100.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:22pm PDT

Book Talk Starts at 19:24

Shownotes on our blog

Direct download: 2KLC_ep_99.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:57am PDT

Book Talk starts at 29:35

 

Recorded on September 9, 2015

 

The Mother Bear KAL/CAL is over!  Did you win a prize?  Listen to the podcast to find out.  We ended up with 313 bears knit for the KAL, plus another 30 knit by Barb and Tracie.  Wow.  Thank you all for making a child's life a little happier!

 

 

Our Fall Sweater 2015 KAL will be running from September 15, 2015 to January 15, 2016.  Come and join us.  Knit or crochet an adult-size cardigan or pullover - any style, any weight yarn.

 

Want to win a hard copy of the Elizabeth Doherty's book, Top Down:  Reimagining Set-In Sleeve Design?  You can enter here.  Contest will end on September 15th.

 

Tracie will be in France this fall.  She will be taking a personalized yarn store tour in Paris with Barbara of Stitching Up Paris Needlecraft Tours.  She will also be meeting up with Lolacha of the Maille Podcast.  Tracie is very excited!

 

Upcoming Events:

October 3, 4, 2015 - Lambtown USA in Dixon, CA.  Barb will be attending on Saturday, the 3rd.

 

October 10, 2015 - the CogKNITive Fiber Retreat in Tehachapi, CA.  Both Barb and Tracie will be attending.

 

February 18 - 21, 2016 - Barb and Tracie will be attending Stitches West in Santa Clara, CA.

 

KNITTING

 

Barb has finished:

 

her Last Frost scarf by Julia Trice, using BeeMiceElf Sock in the Apple A Day colorway.

 

Tracie has finished:

 

Her Persimmon Cowl by Jane Cochran, using Desert Vista Dyeworks Voir in the 2 Knit Lit Chicks Teal colorway.

 

Barb is continuing to knit on:

*  Crackerjack Cowl by Stacy Simpson Duke, using Plymouth Yarn DK Merino Superwash in 4 color ways - Orange, Gray, Black and White.

*  Wild Goose Shawlette by Paula Emons- Fuessle, using GnomeAcres Fancy Gnome in the Aurora Gnomealis colorway.

*  Dodgson #2 by the Berroco Design Team, using Berroco Boboli in the Strawberry Jam colorway.

*  Perpendicular Cowl by Brenda Castiel, using Knit Picks Swish DK in 2 colors - orange and coal'

 

Tracie is continuing to knit on:

*  Longstreet cowl by Nancy Totten, using Abstract Fiber Temptation in The Gorge colorway.

*  Endearment cardigan by Hanna Maciejewska, using Jill Draper Makes Stuff Esopus in the Sapphire colorway.

*  Wanda Estelle poncho by Debbie Stone, using Kollage Yarns Fantastic in Slate Green.

 

Tracie has cast-on:

*  vanilla socks in Fishknit Boot Strap in the Fat Tuesday colorway.

*  Perpendicular Cowl by Brenda Castiel, using Cascade Elysian in the 08 colorway and Jojoland Splatter Dash in the 002 colorway.

 

Barb talked a bit about her upcoming plans for the Sweater KAL.  She is planning on knitting the Helvetica cardigan by Elizabeth Doherty, using Berroco Indigo in the Cut-Offs colorway.

 

 

BOOKS

 

Tracie has finished:

 

The Train Never Stops in Dixon: Carissa Carpenter Promised to Turn the Town Into Hollywood North; Some Took the Bait by Bil Paul - Tracie recommends it.

 

Nature Girl by Carl Hiaasen - Tracie recommends it.

 

Barb has finished:

 

 

The Third Wife by Lisa Jewell.  Barb recommends it.

 

Hyperbole and a Half: Unfortunate Situations, Flawed Coping Mechanisms, Mayhem and Other Things That Happened by Allie Brosch.  Barb and Tracie both recommend it.

 

Before He Finds Her by Michael Kardos.  Barb recommends it.

 

Tracie is currently reading:

 

The Pocket Wife by Susan H. Crawford

 

The Martian by Andy Weir

 

 

Barb is currently reading:

 

Sense and Sensibility by Jane Austen

 

Blood Games by Jerry Bledsoe

 

Olivay by Deborah Reed

 

Direct download: Episode_98.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:48pm PDT

Our Mother Bear KAL/CAL ends in just a few days. We have almost 300 bears! 

Next KAL?  Fall Sweater 2015 KAL!   This will run September 15 – January 15.  To enter to win, you must knit or crochet an adult-sized sweater with sleeves (even if they are short).  We will have some suggestions for beginner sweater knitters in our chatter thread.

Barb and Tracie will be at the CogKnitive Fiber Retreat – Oct 10, 2015 – at the La Quinta Inn in Tehachapi, California

Barb finished:

Kitty Whiskers socks using Fishknits Strong Heart yarn in the Kitty Whiskers colorway

Nordic Trail Vest by Elizabeth Smith, using Cascade Ecological Wool in a brownish/gray colorway

Tracie finished

5 Mother Bears 63, 64, 65, 66 & 67

Vanilla socks in Lisa Souza Dyeworks Deluxe Sock in Flahriddah

Barb continues to work on:

The Crackerjack cowl by Stacy Simpson Duke, using 4 colors of Plymouth yarn DK Merino Superwash.

The Last Frost scarf by Julia Trice, using Bee Mice Elf Sock in the Apple a Day colorway.

Barb cast on

Wild Goose  Shawlette by Paula Emmons-Fuesle, using GnomeAcres Fancy Gnome (MCN blend) in the Aurora Gnomealis colorway.

Her second Dodgson by the Berroco Design Team, using Berroco Boboli in the Strawberry Jam colorway.

Perpendicular Cowl by Brenda Castiel, using Knit Picks Swish Worsted in 2 colors – Orange and Coal

Tracie continues to work on:

The Persimmon cowl by Jane Cochran, using Desert Vista Dyeworks Voir in the 2 Knit Lit Chicks Teal colorway.

The Longstreet shawl by Nancy Totten, using Abstract Fiber Temptation in The Gorge color way.

The Endearment cardigan by Hanna Majiejewska, using Jill Draper Makes Stuff Esopus in the Sapphire color way.

The Wanda Estelle poncho by Debbi Stone, using Kollage Yarns Fantastic in Slate Green.

The Art of Hearing Heartbeats by Jan-Philipp Sender

The All-Girl Filling Station's Last Reunion by Fannie Flagg

The Last Bookstore in America by Amy Stewart

We Are All Completely Beside Ourselves by Karen Joy Fowler

 Tracie and Barb DO NOT recommend Because She Loves Me by Mark Edwards

Bitter Almonds: The True Story of Mothers, Daughters, and the Seattle Cyanide Murders by Gregg Olsen

Jacob I Have Loved by Katherine Paterson

CivilWarLand in Bad Decline by George Saunders

Cicada Spring by Christian Galacar

Faith by Jennifer Haigh

Sense and Sensibility by Jane Austen

Hyperbole and a Half: Unfortunate Situations, Flawed Coping Mechanisms, Mayhem, and Other Things That Happened by Allie Brosch

Before He Finds Her by Michael Kardos

Nature Girl by Carl Hiaasen

Direct download: 2KLC_ep_97.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:56pm PDT

Book Talk starts at 30:55

 

Recorded on August 5, 2015

 

Our Cardi/Tank or Tee KAL has ended.  Be sure to listen until the end of the podcast to hear the winners named.

 

Our Mother Bear KAL/CAL is going strong!  We have over 240 bears so far.  Barb reminded everyone to send their bears into the Mother Bear Organization in Minneaplis, MN (including $3 per bear for shipping).  Please let either Tracie or Barb know if you would like to donate a prize.

 

Barb talked about how much she is enjoying the baby birds (House Finches) on her front porch.  They will be leaving the nest soon, and she will miss them.

 

Events

Both Barb and Tracie will be attending the CogKNITive Fiber Retreat October 10, 2015.

 

Barb talked about how much she is enjoying the Serial Podcast, the Undisclosed Podcast, and the Serial Dynasty Podcast.

 

 

KNITTING

 

Tracie has finished:

 

Mother Bears #60, #61 & #62.  Pictured at left - the Beach Bears!

 

A pair of vanilla socks for her son, Will, using Berroco Sox, aptly called Boy Sox.

 

Se[ven]circle by Kristen Johnstone using Universal Yarn Classic Shades Sequins Lite

 

Barb has finished:

 

 Her Woodfords Cardigan, by Elizabeth Doherty, using Cascade Yarns Heritage Sock in the Camel color way.

 

Her Rose City Rollers socks by Mara Catherine Bryner, using Undead Yarn Vamphri in the Autism Awareness color way.

 

Mother Bear #67

 

Her #21 Classic Cardigan by Sandy Prosser, using Noro Maiko.  A dismal failure...way too big, way too boxy.  She will not frog it, because of the mohair in the yarn.

 

Tracie is working on:

 

The Longstreet shawl by Nancy Totten, using Abstract Fiber Temptation in The Gorge color way.

 

The Endearment cardigan by Hanna Majiejewska, using Jill Draper Makes Stuff Esopus in the Sapphire color way.

 

The Wanda Estelle poncho by Debbi Stone, using Kollage Yarns Fantastic in Slate Green.

 

Vanilla socks, using Lisa Souza Deluxe Sock! in the Flahrida colorway.

 

Tracie has cast-on:

 

The Persimmon cowl by Jane Cochran, using Desert Vista Dyeworks Voir in the 2 Knit Lit Chicks Teal colorway.

 

Barb is working on:

 

The Crackerjack cowl by Stacy Simpson Duke, using 4 colors of Plymouth yarn DK Merino Superwash.

 

A pair of vanilla socks, using Fishknits Strong Heart in the Kitty Whiskers colorway.

 

The Last Frost scarf by Julia Trice, using Bee Mice Elf Sock in the Apple a Day colorway.

 

BOOKS

 

Barb has finished:

A Cold Day for Murder by Dana Stabenow - she recommends it.

 

Trail of Broken Wings by Sejal Badani - recommended

 

 

Tracie has finished:

So You've Been Publicly Shamed by Jon Ronson - recommended

 

Norman Bray, In the Performance of His Life by Trevor Cole - highly recommended (but might be hard to find)

 

Tracie did not finish:

The Neighbors by Ania Ahlborn - she does not recommend this book

 

 

Barb is currently reading:

Sense and Sensibility by Jane Austen

 

The Art of Hearing Heartbeats by Jan-Philipp Sender

 

The All-Girl Filling Station's Last Reunion by Fannie Flagg

 

 

Tracie is currently reading:

Bitter Almonds: The True Story of Mothers, Daughters, and the Seattle Cyanide Murders by Gregg Olsen

 

Jacob I Have Loved by Katherine Paterson

 

Because She Loves Me by Mark Edwards

 

Direct download: Episode_96.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:32pm PDT

Book Talk starts at 33:45

Recorded on July 22, 2015

Our Cardi, Tank or Tee-Along is almost over – get those last few items off the needles and up on our FOs thread by August 1.

 

Mother Bear KAL – Any bear knit in 2015 will qualify!  We have 220 bears in the FOs thread – wow!!  Let us know if you would like to donate a prize.

 

Tracie and Barb will be at the CogKnitive Fiber Retreat – Oct 10, 2015 – La Quinta Inn, Tehachapi

 

Tracie has finished Mother Bears 565758 and 59, (all crocheted), and her Gilda by Twisted Sisters in Fiesta Yarns Linnette in the Clematis colorway. 

 

Barb got a lot done on her Alaska trip!  She finished:

Mother Bear #58, #59, #60, #61#62, #63, #64. #65, #66

Radiance Shawl by Helen Stewart using Highland Handmades Mountain Laurel Lace in the White Brook colorway

Autism Awareness Socks using Undead Yarn Vampyre in the Autism Awareness colorway

 

Tracie is still working on:

se[ven]circle by Kristin Johnstone in Universal Yarn Classic Shades Sequins Lite

 

Longstreet by Nancy Totten (of Front Range Bagsin Abstract Fiber Temptations in The Gorge colorway

 

Endearment (not Enchantment!) by Hanna Maciejewska in Jill Draper Makes Stuff Esopus in the Sapphire Colorway

 

Wanda Estelle by Debbi Stone in Kollage Yarns Fantastic in Slate Green

 

Two pairs of vanilla socks – one in Lisa Souza Dyeworks Deluxe Sock in the Flahriddah colorway, and one for Will in Berocco Sox

 

Barb is working on:

Crackerjack Cowl by Stacy Simpson Duke – using Plymouth Select Merino DK in orange, black, white and gray.

 Woodfords Cardigan by Elizabeth Doherty using Cascade Heritage Sock in a camel brown colorway

Classic Cardigan by Sandi Prosser, using Noro Maiko (a silk, wool and mohair blend that feels like a cotton/linen blend) in a crème color.

 

And she has cast on:

Last Frost Scarf by Julia Trice, using BeeMiceElf in the Apple a Day colorway

Socks using Fishknits Strong Heart yarn in the Kitty Whiskers colorway

Rose City Rollers by Mara Catherine Bryner using leftover Undead Yarn Vampyre sock in the Autism Awareness colorway.

 

 

REVIEW: Top Down: Reimagining Set-In Sleeve Design by Elizabeth Doherty 

 

Enter to Win a Copy here

 

Tracie recommends:

Nutcracker: Money, Madness, Murder: A Family Album by Shana Alexander

 

Barb recommends

 A Spool of Blue Thread by Anne Tyler

Fire and Ice by Dana Stabenow

They Never Came Home by Lois Duncan

 The Hollow Ground by Natalie Harnett

A Man Called Ove by Frederik Bakman

To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

Manson:  The Life and Times of Charles Manson by Jeff Guinn

The Kind Worth Killing by Peter Swanson

 

Barb does not recommend Second Glance by Jodi Piccoult

 

Tracie thought the following books were decent, not great:

Keep Your Friends Close by Paula Daly

A Spool of Blue Thread by Anne Tyler

Go Set a Watchman by Harper Lee

 

Tracie is reading

Norman Bray in the Performance of His Life by Trevor Cole

Bitter Almonds: The True Story of Mothers, Daughters, and the Seattle Cyanide Murders by Gregg Olsen

 

Barb is reading:

Sense and Sensibility by Jane Austen

A Cold Day for Murder by Dana Stabenow

The All -Girl Filling Station’s Last Reunion by Fannie Flagg

 

Direct download: 2KLC_Ep_95.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:11am PDT

Book Talk Begins at 21:11

 

Recorded July 10, 2015

 

Our Cardi, Tank or Tee-Along deadline has been extended to August 1, so keep going!  Post finished objects here!

 

Our Mother Bear KAL began July 1, so start making those bears if you haven’t already!  Any bear knit in 2015 will qualify.  Be sure and make a separate post in the FOs thread for each bear you make.    We already have 50 bears– way to go!   Please let us know if you would like to donate a prize.

 

Tracie and Barb will be at the CogKnitive Fiber Retreat – Oct 10, 2015 – location TBA.

 

Tracie has finished:

Mother Bears 5354 and 55

 

Pause by Norah Gaughan in Berocco Mixer.  At last!  After another major mishap, I put this in timeout for a few days and then got through it.  Much happier with the way it turned out the second time!

 

Soubrette by Mary Annarella in madelinetosh lace (discontinued).  This was all I worked on during my week at the beach and a couple of days afterward.  Probably put in 15 hours on it but got it finished!

 

She has cast-on

se[ven]circle by Kristin Johnstone in Universal Yarn Classic Shades Sequins Lite

 

Longstreet by Nancy Totten (of Front Range BagsinAbstract Fiber Temptations in The Gorge colorway

 

Enchantment by Hanna Maciejewska in Jill Draper Makes Stuff Esopus in the Sapphire Colorway

 

She continues to work on:

Gilda by Twisted Sisters in Fiesta Yarns Linnette in the Clematis (cleh-mat-is) colorway.  

(photo)

Wanda Estelle by Debbi Stone in Kollage Yarns Fantastic in Slate Green

 

Two pairs of vanilla socks – one in Lisa Souza Dyeworks Deluxe Sock in the Flahriddah colorway, and one for Will in Berocco Sox

 

 

Emma: A Modern Retelling by Alexander McCall Smith

Everything I Never Told You by Celeste Ng

Nutcracker: Money, Madness, Murder: A Family Album by Shana Alexander

A Spool of Blue Thread by Anne Tyler

 

 

Direct download: Episode_94.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:05pm PDT

Book Talk starts at: 34:25

 

This episode was recorded on June 15, 2015.

 

Come participate in our Cardi/Tank or Tee KAL/CAL!  You have until August 1st to complete your garment. 

 

 

MARK YOUR CALENDARS!  Our annual Mother Bear KAL/CAL is coming right up.  All the information is here.  It will run July 1 - August 30.  Any bears you have made in 2015 are eligible to enter.  Be sure and make a separate post for every bear you knit or crochet.  And we will have PRIZES of course (cause that's just how we roll).

 

 

Barb gave a brief update on her current RV trip to Alaska.  She is a fan of the British Columbia, Canada Provincial Parks and the Yukon Territorial Parks.

 

Upcoming Event:

The Cognitive Fiber Retreat, October 10th.  All the information is here.

 

KNITTING

 

Tracie has finished:

 

 

A special project for her friend Sahcha "Kombubucha Couture collection, which she will be showing at Paris Fashion Week in the fall!  This is a picture of the "yarn" knitted up.

 

Barb has finished:

* Her Yowza Weigh-It Shawl #1 by Susan B. Anderson, using Miss Babs Yowza - Whatta Skein! in the Believable colorway.

* Mother Bears #54, #55, #56 &#57

Woobie Monkey by Kris Carlson, using 2 colors of Knit Picks Brava Sport in brown and white.

Antler Hat by Tin Can Knits, using Plymouth Galway Worsted

 

Tracie is currently knitting:

*  Sev[en]circle necklace by Kristen Johnstone, using handspun by Redfish Dyeworks

*  Pause by Norah Gaughan, using Berroco Mixer (Tracie has had quite a time with this garment - for full details, listen to the episode!)

*  Gilda by Twisted Sisters, using Fiesta Yarns Linnette in the Clematis colorway.

*  Vanilla socks, using Lisa Souza Deluxe Sock! in the Flahriddah colorway.

*  Soubrette by Mary Annarella, using Madelinetosh Lace in the Georgia O'Keefe colorway.

*  Wanda Estelle by Debbi Stone, using Kollage Yarns Fantastic in Slate Green.

*  Vanilla socks in Berroco Sox

 

Barb is currently knitting:

*  #21 Classic Cardigan by Sandi Prosser, using Noro Maiko in a Creme colorway.

*  Radiance Shawl by Helen Stewart, using Highland Handmades Mountain Laurel Lace in the White Brook colorway/

*  Crackerjack Cowl by Stacy Simpson Duke, using 4 different colors of Plymouth Yarn DK Merino Superwash in orange, black, gray and white.

*  Vanilla Socks using Undead Yarn Vampyre in the Autism Awareness colorway.

*  Woodfords cardigan, using Cascade Yarns Heritage Sock in a Camel colorway.

 

BOOKS

 

Tracie has finished:

*  Someone You Know by Brian McGilloway - Thumbs Up from Tracie!

*  The Winter People by Jennifer McMahon - Tracie agrees with Barb - Thumbs Up!

*  Manson: The Life and Times of Charles Manson by Jeff Guinn - Thumbs Up from Tracie!

*  True Porn Clerk Stories by Ali Davis - Yes - another Thumbs Up from Tracie!

*  I Love You More by Jennifer Murphy - Tracie doesn't really recommend this one.

 

Both Tracie and Barb finished:

*  The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie by Muriel Spark - Barb says Thumbs Up, Tracie doesn't agree.

 

Barb has finished:

*  Dead Wake: The Last Crossing of the Lusitania by Eric Larson - Barb says Thumbs Up!

*  The Twilight Zone Radio Dramas, Volume 1 by Kim Fields - Barb recommends it if you were a fan of the original Twilight Zone TV Series

*  Bone Dust White by Karin Salvalaggio - Barb doesn't recommend it.

*  The Children's Crusade by Ann Packer - Barb says Thumbs Up!

*  Finding Jake by Brian Reardon - anothe Thumbs Up from Barb

 

Tracie did not finish Black & White by Dani Shapiro

 

Tracie is currently reading:

Emma: A Modern Retelling by Alexander McCall Smith (so far, she is less than impressed)

 

Barb is currently reading:

*  Sense and Sensibility by Jane Austen

*  Fire and Ice (Liam Campbell #1) by Dana Stabenow

*  Second Glance by Jodi Picoult

*  A Spool of Blue Thread by Anne Tyler

 

Tracie recommends the TV Show @midnight with Chris Hardwick.

Barb recommends the Netflix TV Series Grace and Frankie.

 

 

 

 
 

 

Direct download: Episode_93.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:40pm PDT

Book Talk starts at 27:50

 

Recorded on May 27, 2015

 

Come join us in the Cardi, Tank or Tee KAL/CAL!  You have until July 1 to complete your project. 

 

Barb recommends listening to Teaching Your Brain to Knit: Episode 16: Knitting and the Need for Novelty to find out more about why most of us have multiple projects on the needles at any one time and why we feel the need to switch projects.

 

Tracie will be attending Spinning at the Winery June 6, 2015 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

 

KNITTING

 

Barb has finished:

Her Alder Wrap by Kaffe Fassett using 12 colors of Rowan Kidsilk Haze.

 

Her Featherweight Cardigan by Hannah Fettig, using Must Stash Yarns Helluva Skein in the Pau'ole colorway.

Mother Bear #53

 

Tracie has finished her spinning her Redfish Dyeworks Fiber that she has had on the spindle for 2 years!

 

Barb is currently working on:

The Radiance Shawl by Helen Stewart, using Highland Handmades Mountain Laurel Lace in the White Brook colorway.

Crackerjack Cowl by Stacy Simpson Duke, using 4 colors of Plymouth Yarn DK Merino Superwash.

Yowza Weigh-It Shawl #1 by Susan B. Anderson, using 1 skein of Miss Babs Yowza - Whatta Skein! in the Believable color way.

Vanilla Socks using Undead Yarns Vamphyri in the Autism Awareness colorway.

 

Barb has frogged the Vesper Tee.

 

Tracie is currently working on:

Pause by Norah Gaughan, using Berroco Mixer.

The Gilda scarf by Twisted Sisters, using Fiesta Yarns Linnette in the Clematis colorway.  She had to order more beads for this project and was very impressed with the customer service at Bead Biz!

Vanilla socks using Lisa Souza Dyeworks Deluxe Socks in the Flahrida color way.

The Soubrette cardigan by Mary Annarella, using Madelinetosh Lace in the Georgia O'Keefe colorway.

Vanilla Socks for Will using Berroco Sox.

The Wanda Estelle poncho using Kollage Yarns Fantastic.

 

Barb has cast-on:

The Woodfords cardigan by Elizabeth Doherty, using Cascade Yarns Heritage Sock in a camel colorway.

Woobie Monkey by Kris Carlson, using Knit Picks Brava Sport in both brown and white colorways.

 

 

Tracie talked about a very special project that she is currently knitting for her friend Sacha Laurin's Kombucha Couture Collection, which she will be debuting at Paris Fashion Week this coming fall.  You can contribute to her Indiegogo campaign here.

 

BOOKS

 

Barb has finished:

The Slap by Christos Tsiolkas.  Barb does NOT recommend this book, unless you enjoy in-depth descriptions of male genetalia in your in-the-bedroom scenes.

Unintended Consequences by Marti Green - Barb recommends this as a good solid mystery read.

The Borden Tragedy: A Memoir of the Infamous Double Murder at Falls River, Mass  by Rick Geary - this was Barb's first graphic novel and she enjoyed it!

 

 

 

Tracie has finished:

King Dork Approximately by Frank Portman - Tracie recommends the first book in this series, King Dork over this one.

Dark Rooms by Lili Anolik - Tracie does NOT recommend this book.  Don't believe the hype.

And Then She Was Gone by Rosalind Noonan - Tracie felt this story was obviously based on the Jaycee Dugard case.

The Wives of Los Alamos by TaraShea Nexbit - Tracie recommends this book as a glimpse into a little-known portion of American history.

 

 

The Spellman Files by Lisa Lutz - Tracie recommends it!

Isabel Spellman's Guide to Etiquette: What is Wrong with you People? by Lisa Lutz - more of a short story...

 

Barb is currently reading:

Sense and Sensibility by Jane Austen through the Craftlit Podcast.

The Joy of Less, A Minimalist Living Guide: How to DeClutter, Organize and Complify Your Life by Francine Joy

Dead Wake: The Last Crossing of the Lusitania by Eric Larson

Second Glance by Jodi Piccolt

 

 

Tracie is currently reading:

Someone You Know: Part Three by Brian McGilloway

 

 

The Winter People by Jennifer McMahon

Direct download: Episode_92.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:42pm PDT

Book Talk starts at 51:20

 

Recorded on May 13, 2015

 

Come join the Cardi/Tank or Tee KAL/CAL!  Knit any cardigan, tank or tee (adult or child size) between May 1 - July 1.  If you have a project less than 50% done on May 1st, that will work too.  See the FO thread for the prizes we have so far.

 

Win a pattern of your choice by Debbi Stone!  Go to the contest thread on our Ravelry group and tell us which pattern you would like to win.  We will pick the winner when we podcast Episode 92

 

Barb talked about and recommended 2 audio podcasts:

1.  ACTUally KNITting podcast, hosted by ACTually KNITting (Michelle)

2.  Teaching Your Brain to Knit, hosted by Margaret924 (Margaret) and MagicWombat (Catherine)

 

 

Tracie talked about The Yarnit.  She and Barb both have one and really like this tool.

 

Events:

Tracie will be attending Spinning at the Winery, AKA Food, Fleeces and Fun! at the Retzlaff Winery in Livermore, CA. on June 6, 10 - 4 pm.

 

Barb will be going on a motorhome trip up through Oregon, Washington, British Columbia, Yukon Territory and Alaska.  She will be leaving 5/25 and will be gone about 6 weeks.  She would love to meet up with anyone along the way - PM her on Ravelry!

 

 

Tracie talked about how much she is enjoying her bag from the Etsy shop, Silver Shed USA.  Note the clear pocket in the front; it's an add-on you can custom pick at the time you order!

 

 

KNITTING

 

Tracie has finished:

 

 

Twigs and Willows Mitts by Alana Dakos, usiang Unwind Yarn Company Twinkle Sock in the Labordite colorway.

 

Tracie has Cast-On:

The Gilda scarf, using Fiesta Yarns Linnette in the Clematis colorway.

 

Tracie has frogged the Skew Socks by Lana Holden...she's just not feelin' it right now.  She is re-purposing the Lisa Souza Dyeworks Delux Sock in a vanilla sock right now.

 

Tracie is continuing to work on:

Red Fish Dyeworks fiber on her spindle

* The Soubrette cardigan. using Madelinietosh Lace in the Georgia O'Keefe colorway.

* The Wanda Estelle poncho, using Kollage Yarns Fantastic in the Slate Green colorway.

* Vanilla Socks for Will, using Berroco Sox.

 

Barb has finished:

 

 

* A pair of Vanilla Socks, using Zwerger Garn Opal Schafpate  in the 8120 colorway.

* A Multidirectional Diagonal Scarf by Karen Baumer using Plymouth Yarn Gina in colorway 15.

 

 

Barb has Cast-On:

* A pair of Vanilla socks using Undead Yarn fingering weight in the Autism Awareness colorway.

* The Vesper tee by Heidi Kirrmaier, using Berroco Weekend DK in the 2972 (raspberry) colorway.

 

                                                                                                               

 

Barb is continuing to work on:

 

* The Crackerjack Cowl by Stacy Simpson Duke, using 4 colors (orange, black, grey and white) of Plymouth Yarn DK Merino Superwash.  It is happily living in her SF Giants project bag, made by Front Range Bags!

* The Alder Wrap by Kaffe Fassett, using 12 colors of  Rowan Kidsilk Haze.

* The Radiance Shawl by Helen Stewart, using Highland Handmades Mountain Laurel Lace in the White Brook colorway.

* The Featherweight Cardigan by Hannah Fettig, using Must Stash Yarns Helluva Skein in the Pauo'le colorway.

* The original Yowza Weigh-It Shawl by Susan B. Anderson, using Miss Babs Yowza- Whatta Skein in the Believable colorway.

 

 

 

 

Barb and Tracie discussed the recently- released scarf pattern, Last Frost by designer Julia Trice.  They both want to knit this gorgeous pattern!

 

 

MAGAZINE REVIEW

 

Cooperative Press sent Barb and Tracie digital copies of Knit Edge Magazine, Issue 7 to review.  Both of them found many quality articles and several favorite patterns in this issue.

 

You can win a digital copy of this issue - go over to the Ravelry thread and answer the question to be entered.  This contest will end when Episode 92 is recorded.

 

BOOKS

 

Tracie has finished:

*  Me Again by Keith Cronin.  She recommends this book.

*  Wreckage by Emily Bleeker.  She does NOT recommend this book.

 

 

Tracie is currently reading"

King Dork Approximately by Frank Portman

Dark Rooms by Lili Anolik

 

Barb has finished:

As Far As You Can Go by Lesley Glaister.  She doesn't recommend this book.

The Killer Next Door by Alex Marwood.  She recommends this book.

 

Barb is currently reading:

Jurassic Park by Michael Crighton.  She is competely enjoying this book!

Sense and Sensibility by Jane Austen

The Joy of Less, a Minimalist Living Guide: How to DeClutter, Organize and Simplify Your Life by Francine Joy

The Slap by Christos Tsiolkas

 

 

Direct download: Episode_91.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:15pm PDT

Book Talk starts at 37:20

Recorded on April 29, 2015

 

Our Alana-Along is a wrap (or a sweater or a pair of mitts…)  If you entered, stay tuned till the end of the podcast to find out if you won a prize!  Thanks to all who participated

 

Our new KAL has begun - the Cardi, Tank or Tee-Along will run May 1-July 1

 

Robin Wiest raised $1489 for Autism Speaks  with her Sprig of Hope pattern, and she helped her LYS, Twist Knitting and Spinning, raise over $5000 at  their Third Annual Sheep to Shawl Benefit for Autism Speaks.  Congratulations and many kudos to them all!

 

Click for Kiley – Kiley is a high school senior doing a project collecting hats for the Click for Babies project to help inform new parents about crying and Shaken Baby Syndrome.  If you’d like to help by making a purple baby hat, visit Kiley’s Ravelry page for details.

 

Tracie will be at:

Fleeces, Food & Fun – Retzlaff Winery in Livermore California - June 6, 10-4pm

 

Barb finished:

1 Ear Bud Pouch by Mary Keenen – and she’s planning to make another!

3 newborn hats for the Click for Kiley project  Three Textured Baby Hats by Heather Tucker

 

Tracie finished

1 Knitted Knocker (for a total of four, which she turned in at NoCKRs)

and

the Sprig of Hope shawl by Robin Wiest

 

Barb worked on:

Alder Wrap by Kaffe Fassett using many different colors of Rowan Kidsilk Haze.

Radiance Shawl by Helen Stewart using Highland Handmades Mountain Laurel Lace in the White Brook colorway. 

Featherweight Cardigan by Hannah Fettig using Must Stash Yarns Helluva Skein in the Pauo’le colorway

Vanilla Socks using Opal Shafpate in the 8120 colorway

Crackerjack Cowl by Stacy Simpson Duke – using Plymouth Select Merino DK in orange, black, white and gray.

Multidirectional Diagonal Scarf by Karen Baumer, Using Plymouth Gina in colorway 15

Yowza Weigh-it Shawl #1 by Susan B. Anderson, using Miss Babs Yowza in the Believable colorway.

 

Tracie worked on:

Soubrette by Mary Annarella/madelinetosh lace (discontinued) in Georgia O’Keeffe.  Coming along…

 

Wanda Estelle by Debbi Stone/Kollage Yarns Fantastic in Slate Green

 

Twigs & Willows Mitts by Alana Dakos/Unwind Yarn Company Twinkle Sock in Laboradite.  One done!

 

And cast-on:

Vanilla Socks with the Fish Lips Kiss Heel/Berocco Sox in colorway 1494

 

Barb highly recommends

The Orphan Masters’ Son by Adam Johnston

and

A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Houseini

 

And found okay reads in

Aftershock: A Thriller by Andrew Vachss

His Other Life by Beth Thomas

 

She is currently reading:

Sense and Sensibility by Jane Austen

As Far As You Can Go by Lesley Gaister

The Killer Next Door by Alex Marwood

 

Tracie Did Not Finish

Jumping In Mud Puddles: A Memoir of a Hyper, Picky Big Fat Liar by Vickie Mendenhall

 

She recommends

Forgive Me, Leonard Peacock by Matthew Quick.  The audiobook has excellent narration by Noah Galvin

 

She did not care for

The Carrier by Sophie Hannah (but if you’d like to read one of Hannah’s good thrillers, check out Hurting Distance, The Other Half Lives, or Kind of Cruel

 

And she found solid reads in

Lady Fortescue Steps Out by Marion Chesney.  First of the Poor Relations

series

 

Family Blood: The True Story of the Yom Kippur Murders: One Family’s Greed, Love & Rage by Marvin J. Wolf

 

She is currently listening to

King Dork Approximately by Frank Portman

Direct download: 2KLS_ep_90.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:44am PDT

Recorded on April 13, 2015

Book Talk begins at 30:15

 

Join our Alana-Along- deadline extended till May 1! You can knit any accessory or garment pattern by Alana Dakos of Never Not Knitting.  You can knit multiple NNK designs, but we will be allowing only one entry per knitter for this KAL.   Post your FO here to be entered to win!  Please limit your comments to the Chatter thread

 

New KAL!  From May 1-July 1 – Come join our "Cardi, Tank or Tee-Along".  Knit any spring/summer cardigan, tank or tee, adult or for a little one and be eligible for prizes.  Come join the chatter thread on the Ravelry board as we all make our plans...

 

 

EVENTS:

Tracie and Barb will be at:

Northern California Knitting Retreat - April 17-19, 2015 - San Juan Bautista

Spinning at the Winery AKA Fleeces, Food and Fun – Retzlaff Winery, June 6, 10-4pm

 

KNITTING:

Tracie has finished:

Bandana Cowl by Purl Soho/Berocco Flicker in 3335 (earth tones)

 

Lengthening an Anne Klein black shrug to cardigan length/Plymouth Jeannee

 

 

 Barb has finished:

 

Her Gnarled Oak Cardigan, using Wollmeise Merino DK.  She is so happy with the final project!  It is a perfect fit, and looks great unbuttoned or buttoned up.

 

 

Tracie is working on:

The Skew socks by Lana Holden/Lisa Souza Dyeworks Deluxe Sock in Flahriddah.  She has not touched this project!

 

The Soubrette cardigan by Mary Annarella/madelinetosh lace (discontinued) in Georgia O’Keeffe. 

 

The Wanda Estelle poncho by Debbi Stone/Kollage Yarns Fantastic in Slate Green

 

The Sprig of Hope shawl by Robin Wiest/Cascade Sunseeker in 09 (Green).  Proceeds from this pattern will be donated to Autism Speaks until mid-April so check it out!

 

The Twigs and Willows Mitts  by Alana Dakos/Unwind Yarn Company Twinkle Sock in Laboradite.  She is having a terrible time with these!

 

Barb is working on:

The Alder Wrap by Kaffe Fassett, using 13 colors of Rowan Kidsilk Haze

 

The Radiance Shawl by Helen Stewart, using Highland Handmades Mountain Laurel Lace in the White Brook colorway.  She has hit a snag...

 

The Featherweight Cardigan by Hannah Fettig, using Must Stash Yarns Helluva Skein in the Pauo'le colorway.

 

She has frogged the Richmond Hat by Brenda Castiel.  The yarn was too dark to show the beautiful pattern!

 

A pair of vanilla socks using Opal Shafpate in the 1810 color way.

 

Barb has cast-on the Copperline Mitts by Elizabeth Doherty, using Madelinetosh DK in the Calligraphy colorway.  She is not happy with this yarn for this project, so will probably frog them.  

 

 

BOOKS:

 

Tracie has finished:

 

Mystery on the Isles of Shoals by J. Dennis Robinson

 

Wool Omnibus by Hugh Howey – the narration made her want to poke her eyes out!

 

 

Barb has finished:

 

Tracie is currently reading:

 

 

 

 

 

The Carrier by Sophie Hannah.  Tracie thinks that it is pretty convoluted so far, but she will stick with it.

 

Jumping in Mud Puddles by Vickie Mendenhall

 

 

 

Forgive me Leonard Peacock by Matthew Quick.  Excellent narration by Noah Galvin

 

 

 

Barb is currently reading:

 

The Orphan Master's Son by Adam Johnston.  Barb is enjoying it more, learning a lot about North Korea.

 

Sense and Sensibility by Jane Austen via the CraftLit Podcast

 

Aftershock: A Thriller by Andrew Vachss.  Although Barb finds the book's main character somewhat annoying, she is enjoying the story anyway.

Direct download: Episode_89.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:13am PDT

Book Talk starts at 34:30

Recorded on March 30, 2015.

 

Join our Alana-Along- deadline extended till May 1! You can knit any accessory or garment pattern by Alana Dakos of Never Not Knitting.  You can knit multiple NNK designs, but we will be allowing only one entry per knitter for this KAL.   Post your FO here to be entered to win!  We love you all and are glad to see the enthusiasm, but we ask you to please stop posting random comments in the FOs thread!

 

Our Read-Along of Persuasion by Jane Austen is ongoing - March 1-31

 

EVENTS:

Tracie and Barb will be at:

The Northern California Knitting Retreat - April 17-19, 2015 - San Juan Bautista 

Fleeces, Food and Fun – Retzlaff Winery, June 6, 10-4pm

 

KNITTING

Barb has finished:

 

Rivercat #2 Socks by Brenda Patipa, using Invictus Yarns Unafraid in the Tranquility colorway.

 

Vanilla Zombody DeComp Socks, using Desert Vista Dyeworks Viso in Zombody DeComp colorway.

 

Tracie has finished:

 

Fish Lips Kiss Heel by Sox Therapist/Dizzy Blonde Studios

 

Cloud Bay by Justina Lorkowska/Ella Rae Silkience in brown

 

Horseshoe Lace Cowl by Sashka Macievich, using Zen Garden Glitter Sock in Mama Dawn colorway

 

GAP-Tastic Cowl by Jen Geigley, using Malabrigo Mecha in the Queguay colorway

 

Mr. Bakery Bear in Red Heart Super Saver, Malabrigo Silky Merino and some old acrylic Tracie found in her stash

 

Alewives Cowl by Elizabeth Doherty in Blue Heron Cotton Rayon Flax Metallic in Sage

 

Her 2nd Wee Wildflower by Alana Dakos, using Knit Picks Brava Sport in Freesia

 

Barb continues to work on:

The The Gnarled Oak Cardigan by Alana Dakos, using Wollmeise Merino DK in the Mistelzweig colorway.

 

The Alder Wrap by Kaffe Fassett, using 12 colors of Rowan Kidsilk Haze.

 

Barb has cast-on:

The Featherweight Cardigan by Hannah Fettig, using Must Stash Yarn Helluva Skein in a Pauo-le colorway.

 

The Richmond Hat by Brenda Castiel, using Malabrigo Mechita in the Sheri color way

 

Another pair of Vanilla socks using Opal Schafpate in 8120 colorway.

 

Tracie cast-on:

Skew socks by Lana Holden Lisa Souza Dyeworks Delux Socks! in the Flahriddah colorway.

 

The Soubrette cardigan by Mary Annarella, using Madelinietosh Tosh Lace (a discontinued yarn) in the Georgia O’Keeffe colorway.

 

The Wanda Estelle  poncho by Debbi Stone, using Kollage Yarns Fantastic in Slate Gree.

 

The Sprig of Hope shawl by Robin Wiest using Cascade Sunseeker in 09 (Green).  Proceeds from this pattern will be donated to Autism Speaks until mid-April so check it out!

 

Twigs and Willows Mitts by Alana Dakos using Unwind Yarn Company in Laboradite.

 

 

Barb and Tracie are huge fans of the Fish Lips Kiss Heel.  This pattern, written by Sox Therapist, is only $1!  Although it is 16 pages long (with very detailed directions on making a cardboard cutout of your foot, along with measuring instructions), both Tracie and Barb "cheated" and went straight to the heel instructions.  This pattern works for both toe-up and cuff-down patterns.  

 

BOOKS

 

Barb has had a good stretch of great books!  She has finished:

The Silent Girls by Eric Riskstad - thumbs up for a quick read

 

Gray Mountain by John Grisham - thumbs up for Grisham fans

 

Persuasion by Jane Austen - thumbs up!

 

Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty - an enthusiastic thumbs up

 

The Dry Grass of August by Anna Jean Mayhew - a thumbs up for a good coming-of-age story set in the 1950s segregated South

 

Show Me Good Land by Shonna Milliken Humphrey - thumbs up

 

Tracie has finished:

Edward Adrift by Craig Lancaster - thumbs up

 

The Thousand-Dollar Tan Line (Veronica Mars) by Rob Thomas & Jennifer Graham - thumbs up

 

Mr. Kiss-and-Tell (Veronica Mars) by Rob Thomas & Jennifer Graham - Tracie didn't like it as much as The Thousand-Dollar Tan Line, especially since the Audible version wasn't narrated by Kristen Bell

 

The Perfect Stranger by Wendy Corsi Staub

 

Persuasion by Jane Austen

 

 

The Handsome Man's Delux Cafe by Alexander McCall Smith - an enthusiastic thumbs up!

 

Vampires in the Lemon Grove by Karen Russell

 

Barb is currently reading:

 

 

The Orphan Master's Son by Adam Johnston

 

Sense and Sensibility by Jane Austen

 

 

Tracie is currently reading:

 

Wool Omnibus by Hugh Howey

 

The Mystery on the Isles of Shoals by J. Dennis Robinson

 

 

Tracie's Thumbs Up: http://mccallspatternbehavior.tumblr.com - old sewing pattern illustrations with very dry commentary

Direct download: Episode_88.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:21pm PDT

Recorded on March 12 and March 15, 2015

Book Talk starts at 25:00

 

Barb is joined by her sister Ann (Graeagleknitter on Revelry) for this episode, as they record from the Big Island of Hawaii!

 

The ending date for our Alana-Along KAL has been extended until May 1, 2015!  Come join in the fun.

 


KNITTING

Barb's lone FO:

 

Barb's Neon Now Socks, using Plymouth Yarn Neon Now

 

 

Ann's Current Projects:

 

Donatella Multidirectional Tee by Irina Poludneko and Takhi Stacy Charles, using Filatura Di Crosa Tempo

 

Entangled Vines cardigan by Alana Dakos, using Jo Sharp Silkroad DK Tweed

 

Sock Yarn Scarf, using sock yarn scraps

 

 

Barb and Ann are both planning on casting on the Crackerjack Cowl when the SF Giants season starts!  They are both really excited about this project.  Ann will be using all worsted weight yarns: Cascade 220 and Lambs Pride Shepherd Worsted.  Barb will be using Plymouth Yarn DK Merino Superwash.

 

 

Barb's Current Projects:

Gnarled Oak cardigan by Alana Dakos, using Wollmeise Merino DK in a deep bright green colorway.

 

Rivercat #2 Socks by Brenda Patipa, using Invictus Yarns Unafraid in the Traquility colorway.

 

Vanilla Socks using Desert Vista Dyeworks Viso in the Zombody DeComp colorway.

 

Alder Wrap by Kaffe Fasset, using 13 different colors of Rowan Kidsilk Haze

 

BOOKS

Ann's Finished Books (and she recommends all of them):

 

The Aloha Quilt by Jennifer Chlaverini

 

Wheat Belly: Lose the Weat, Lose the Weight and Find Your Path Back to Health by William Davis

 

Unbroken: A World War II Story of Survival, Resilience, and Redemption by Laura Hillenbrand

 

Orphan Train by Christina Baker Kline

 

Barb's Finished Books:

 

If I Can't Have You: Susan Powell, Her Mysterious Disappearance, and the Murder of Her Children by Gregg Olsen and Rebecca Morris - if you are a fan of a good True Crime book, Barb recommends this one.

 

Herland by Charlotte Perkins Gilman, listened via the CraftLit Podcast.  Recommended, but Barb hated the ending.

 

The Good Girl by Mary Kubica - Barb recommends it.

 

W is For Wasted by Sue Grafton.  Barb says "yes" to another fun romp with Kinsey Milhone, the PI of the "A is for Alibi" series.

 

New Year Island by Paula Draker - thumbs up!

 

 

Ann is currently reading:

 

Persuasion by Jane Austen

 

Blackberry Pie Murder by Joanne Fluke

 

Ann talked about the great customer service at Fitbit!

 

The winner of the Infinite Twist Shawl Kit is lifeandyarn (Lydia).

 

The winner of the Orange, CA Yarn Store Kickstarter prize is Nomennescio1840 (Julia).

 

 

NoCKRs Retreat News:

 

Make sure you have joined the Northern California Knitting Retreat Ravelry Group to keep up with the latest news.

 

We will have a massage therapist at the retreat!  Go here to find out all about it.  You can make your appointment ahead of time, if you like.

 

We have threads started on Social Media linksthe Stitch Marker Workshop, and carpooling/airport rides on the forum. 

 

Direct download: 2KLC_ep_87.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:10pm PDT

It's a crazy episode, without regular segments.  Links are in order as they appear in the episode.

 

Margaret Fisher

 

Kellie Nuss

 

Invictus Yarns

 

Jill Draper Makes Stuff

 

Oasis Yarns/D J International

 

Joji Locatelli

 

Ecuador

 

NannyKnitter AKA Nancy Totten AKA Front Range Knits

 

Longstreet

 

Becoming Art Yarns

 

Abstract Fiber

 

Knitting Rose Yarns

 

Win an Infinite Twist Shawl Kit!

 

Fiberlicious Yarn Shop Kickstarter Page - go take a look at the Kickstarter page and tell us which prize you like in the thread on our Ravelry Group.  The winner (contest closes on March 15) will win a project bag and a skein of yarn from abingham.

 

Michelle Hunter, AKA Knit Purl Hunter

 

Webs

 

Madelinetosh Feather

 

Knits That Breathe by Julie Turjomen

 

Hitofude Cardigan by Hiroko Fukatsu

 

Richmond Hat by Brenda Castiel

 

Knitting Rose Budding Tracks Socks Yarn

 

Desert Vista Dyeworks

 

Valley Yarns Goshen

 

Dizzy Blonde Studios

 

Newtons Yarn Country

 

Prism Yarns Radiant Petite Madison Layers

 

Fiesta Linnette

 

Gilda Scarf by Twisted Sisters

 

 

Carrie Sundra, the genius hand dyer behind Alpenglow Yarn

 

and, The SkeinMinder!

 

 

Read all about the SkeinMinder here on the Kickstarter page!

 

 

Alana Dakos, knitwear designer, podcaster and author of the really great blog, Never Not Knitting

 

 

Check out Kitterly.com to see Alana's latest design, the Cabled Leaf Pullover.  You can get the pattern through Kitterly, plus order all the yarn you need to knit up this project!

 

 

All of Alana's patterns that we discussed during our interview with Alana are here:

 

Wee Wildflower Cardigan

 

Shawl-Collared Cowl

 

Playful Stripes Cardigan

 

Gnarled Oak Cardigan

 

Entangled Vines Cardigan

 

Twigs and Willows Cardigan

 

Sprig Cardigan

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Direct download: 2KLC_ep_86.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:55pm PDT

Book Talk starts at 35:26

Join our Alana-Along, on going until April 1! You can knit any accessory or garment pattern by Alana Dakos of Never Not Knitting.  You can knit multiple NNK designs, but we will be allowing only one entry per knitter for this KAL.   Post your FO here to be entered to win!

Our Read-Along of Persuasion by Jane Austen will take place March 1-31

Made by Raffi by Craig Pomranz is a wonderful children’s book about a little

boy who likes to knit and sew

Anne Lena Mattison is a knit designer and friend whose husband is very ill with cancer.  This FundMe site is collecting donations to cover the costs a very expensive but promising experimental drug.  Please help if you can.

New contest – win the Hayward Shawl Kit from Infinite Twist!  Leave us a comment here telling us about a knitted gift you made for someone in your life.  Contest ends on March 15th.

Barb’s Finished Projects :

 Mother Bear #52

Top-Down Icelandic Sweater by Ragga Eriksdotter

photo

Tracie’s Finished Projects:

Mrs Bakery Bear by Kay F. Jones

photo

Mother Bear #51

1st Wee Wildflower by Alana Dakos

Barb is working on:

Radiance Shawl by Helen Stewart, using Highland Handmades Mountain Laurel Lace in the White Brook colorway.

A pair of vanilla socks using Plymouth Neon Now Sock yarn in a neon greens, pinks and blue.

Gnarled Oak Cardigan by Alana Dakos, using Wollmeise DK in a deep green colorway.

Tracie is working on:

Mr Bakery Bear by Kay F. Jones in Red Heart

Yet another pair of vanilla socks using Fish Lips Kiss Heel by Sox Therapist – this pair in Dizzy Blonde Studios Lambie Toes in the Pretty Floral Bonnet colorway

Cloud Bay by Justina Lorkowska/Ella Rae Silkience in brown

Alewives Cowl by Elizabeth Doherty in Blue Heron Cotton Rayon Flax Metallic in Sage

 Barb’s Books:

Orphan Train by Kristina Baker Klein

Section 132 by Helga Zeiner

The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up:  The Japanese Guide to Decluttering and Organizing by Marie Kondo

New Year Island by Paul Draker

The Good Girl by Mary Kubica

 

Tracie’s Books:

Deadly Little Secrets: The Minister, His Mistress, and a Heartless Texas Murder by Kathryn Casey

The Last Anniversary by Liane Moriarty

The Farm by Tom Rob Smith

Anne Perry and the Murder of the Century by Peter Graham

Also “Reflections of the Past - True Crime Documentary (Parker Hulme Murder Case) Alexander Roman Film”, available on YouTube for $1.99 rental, and “Heavenly Creatures” which can be streamed on Netflix

Edward Adrift by Craig Lancaster

The Thousand-Dollar Tan Line (Veronica Mars) by Rob Thomas & Jennifer Graham

 

 

Direct download: 2KLC_dp_85.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:59am PDT

Book Talk starts at: 30:46

 

Recorded on January 21, 2015

 

 

Our Next KAL – the Alana-Along – starts in less than 2 week! February 1-April 1. You can knit any accessory or garment pattern by Alana Dakos of Never Not Knitting, starting February 1, 2015 and finishing by April 1 (we may extend the deadline if we have lots of people knitting sweaters).  You can knit multiple NNK designs, but we will be allowing only one entry per knitter for this KAL.   Please go here to participate on the chatter thread.

 

 

Our Sweater KAL is over!  There were 107 completed sweaters - congratulations to all who participated.  The winners of the 3 prize packages are announced at the end of the podcast. 

 

Read-Along of Persuasion by Jane Austen – A number of people have expressed interest so we will go ahead with it.  The dates will be announced later.

 

Alice's Embrace:  Barb discussed a charity seeking volunteers to knit and crochet prayer shawls and lap blankets for those suffering from Alheimer's Disease.  You can find more information about it here.

 

Events:

EVENTS:

Tracie and Barb will be at:

Stitches West – February 19-22 – Santa Clara, CA

Northern California Knitting Retreat - April 17-19, 2015 - San Juan Bautista

 

 

Knitting

 

Tracie has finished:

Mushishi Ruffled Scarf from Plymouth Yarns/Plymouth Mushishi in Stained Glass

 

Modicum Mitts by Rachel Roden/Sock Yarns from Invictus Yarns and Fishknits plus Knitted Wit Shine and KnitPicks Chroma

 

Barb has finished:

135-31 DROPS Tristen Hat, using Becoming Art DK weight in the Warm Spice Colorway

 

 

*  Mother Bear #51

 

Tracie is still working on:

*  Cloud Bay by Justina Lorkowska/Ella Rae Silkience in brown

 * Alewives Cowl by Elizabeth Sock Yarn Blanket in Blue Heron Cotton Rayon Flax Metallic in Sage

 

Barb is still working on:

Top-Down Icelandic Sweater by Ragga Eriksdotter, using Isex Lett-Lopi in the Glacial Blue Heather, White and Sun Yellow colorways. 

Sock Yarn Blanket by Shelley Kang.

* The Radiance Shawl by Helen Stewart, using Highland Handmades Mountain Laurel Lace in the White Brook colorwway.

Snicket Socks by Sabine Riefer, using Invictus Yarns Unafraid in the Tranquility colorway.

 

 Tracie has cast-on:

*Mrs. Bakery Bear by Kay F. Jones, using scrap yarn from her stash.  She is currently working on the body and completely enjoying herself!

 

 

 

 

Barb has cast-on:

 

 

 * a pair of vanilla socks with the Fish Lips Kiss Heel, using Plymouth Yarn Neon Now in a green/pink/blue colorway.

 

TRACIE'S KNITTING 2014 YEAR IN REVIEW: 

 

17 Mother Bears

13 hats

9 shawls and scarves

7 pairs of socks

6 sweaters

4 pairs of fingerless mitts

3 cowls

2 bags

 

BARB'S KNITTING 2014 YEAR IN REVIEW:

 

Total of 80 projects completed in 2014. 15.2 miles knitted.

a.     8 sweaters

b.     19 pair of socks

c.      6 shawls

d.     3 toys

e.     6 cowls

f.      5 mitts

g.     1 mittens

h.     1 poncho

i.       10 hats

j.       3 scarves

k.     2 other

l.       19 Mother Bears

 

m.   4 preemie hats

 

 

BOOKS:

 

Tracie has finished:

The Irresistible Henry House by Lisa Grunwald.  She recommends it with reservations.

My Sister’s Grave by Robert Dugoni

Men Explain Things to Me by Rebecca Solnit

 

Barb has finished:

Harvest Home by Thomas Tryon

We Are Not Ourselves by Matthew Thomas.  Barb gives it a very enthusiastic thumbs up!

 

 

Tracie is currently reading:

Vampires in the Lemon Grove by Karen Russell

Night Film by Marisha Pessl

The Last Anniversary by Liane Moriarty

 

Barb is currently reading:

Herland by Charlotte Perkins Gilman, through the CraftLit podcast.

Section 132 by Helga Zeiner

Orphan Train by Christina Baker Kline

 

Tracie read 66 books in 2014...Barb read 80 books in 2014.

Direct download: Episode_84_2.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 1:05pm PDT

 

Book Talk Begins at 48:23

There’s less than a week to get those sweaters finished!  Post FOs in our Sweater FOs thread to be entered to win one of our three prize packages.  The FOs thread will close at the end of the day on January 15, and we will draw winners at the end of Episode 84.

 

Our Next KAL – the Alana-Along!  You can knit any accessory or garment pattern by Alana Dakos of Never Not Knitting, starting February 1, 2015 and finishing by April 1 (we may extend the deadline if we have lots of people knitting sweaters).  You can knit multiple NNK designs, but we will be allowing only one entry per knitter for this KAL.  Start thinking about what you’d like to make, and gathering your materials!

 

Let us know if you have any interest in a Read-Along of Persuasion by Jane Austen.

 

Barb’s Finished Objects

 Jet Set Cowl by Paulina Popiolek 

 

 

Weathered Socks

 

Multidirectional Scarf by Karen Baumer 

 

 

Tracie’s Finished Objects: 

Earbud Pouch by Mary Keenan

 

Canyonlands Shawl by verybusymonkey

 

Fish Lips Kiss Heel by Sox Therapist

 

Barb has cast on:

Radiance Shawl by Helen Stewart, using Highland Handmades Mountain Laurel Lace in the White Brook colorway.

 

Snicket Socks by Sabene Riefer, using Invictus Yarns Unafraid  in the Tranquility colorway

 

135-31 DROPS Tristan Hat, using Becoming Art DK in the Warm Spice colorway.  Manly hat!

 

And continues to work on:

Top-Down Icelandic Sweater by Ragga Eriksdotter with the Craftsy class, using Letllopi yarns.  It looked small to Tracie, so she gave Barb some tough love, much like this boy does to his little sister:

 

 

 

Sock Yarn Blanket by Shelly Kang – did many squares!

 

 

Tracie has cast on: 

Cloud Bay by Justina Lorkowska/Ella Rae Silkience in brown

 

Mushishi Ruffled Scarf from Plymouth Yarns/Plymouth Mushishi in Stained Glass

 

Modicum Mitts by Rachel Roden/Sock Yarns from Invictus Yarns and Fishknits plus Knitted Wit Shine and KnitPicks Chroma

 

And continues to work on:

Alewives Cowl by Elizabeth Doherty in Blue Heron Cotton Rayon Flax Metallic in Sage

 

A Head for Trouble: What to Knit While Catching Crooks, Chasing Clues and Solving Murders by Julie Turjoman

 

It's the cat's pajamas!  Leave a comment telling us which pattern you’d like to knit here to be entered to win an ecopy!

 

 

Basket Case by Carl Hiaasen

 

The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain

 

Speak Softly, She Can Hear by Pam Lewis

 

The Magpies by Mark Edwards

 

BookBub newsletter – discount and free ebooks

 

The Back Road by Rachel Abbott

 

Death on Account by Margaret Yorke

 

The Last Life by Claire Messud

 

We Are Water by Wally Lamb

 

World War Z by Max Brooks

 

The Irresistible Henry House by Lisa Grunwald

An 1952 Life article about "practice house" babies

 

My Sister’s Grave by Robert Dugoni

 

Herland by Charlotte Perkins Gilman

 

A Life in Stitches: Knitting My Way through Love, Loss, and Laughter by Rachel Herron

 

We are Not Ourselves by Matthew Thomas

 

Harvest Home by Thomas Tryon

 

 

LL Bean Comfort Jeans – thank you Marcha (teal on Ravelry)!

 

 

 

Direct download: 2KLC_Ep83.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 1:01pm PDT

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