We Do Not Have A Knitting Problem

One word.

2012-01-23T23:04:00.000-08:00

Cashmere.

I've spend the past four days at TNNA, the knitting industry's trade show in Phoenix, Arizona. It was amazing, inspiring, motivating, encouraging, exhausting... I could go on and on.

But I'm a bit exhausted from the fun and traveling. I promise to tell you all about it, but for now, just one word.

Cashmere.

Wait. Let's make that five words.

Ten dollars per skein cashmere.

This special end of show deal, courtesy of Lotus Yarns, happened right as I was leaving the convention, rushing to the airport. Probably for the best or I would have just bought more :) It was the perfect treat to end such a wonderful weekend!

I hope to be back tomorrow with lots more pictures and details, but if I don't, please send me good healing thoughts for my knee surgery on Wednesday. I promise to be back soon either way!

Happy Knitting!
xoxo Irishgirlieknits

{this moment}

2012-01-20T02:44:00.000-08:00

This is how they spent the entire 4th quarter of last week's amazing 49er victory over the Saints! Even during the Alex Smith-Vernon Davis Catch!

Go Niners!!

xoxo Irishgirlieknits

P.S. I'm off to TNNA this weekend! SO excited! My patterns will be available in the Deep South Fibers Booth and all of my Kollage Yarns patterns will be available in their booth.

Happenings

2012-01-16T19:51:00.000-08:00

The past week or two have been a whirlwind. A busy transition back to work left the blog unattended, but also lots of friend and family time the past few weeks. So let's just jump right in and catch up, shall we?

A lot has been happening....

1. My bestest friend in the whole wide world was home last week and it was so nice to spend time with her and her adorable 14-month old son, Cutiepatootie. He's getting so big! And beyond cute! So I quickly knit him up a new hat in Madelinetosh Chunky.

2. Visiting with her and another friend reminded me how blessed I am to have close friends who have known me practically my entire life (since I was 6!). It was a good few days spending time with them.

3. While visiting her on the East Bay, I was able to visit for the first time a new yarn store, A Yarn Less Raveled. What a fabulous store!

This is Mindy, the shop owner. She was absolutely delightful and so nice and so enthusiastic about the new yarns, classes, and customers. It was so nice to see a new store so busy on a Sunday morning.

Look, a Summer Wind! Mindy said the pattern has been selling like hotcakes! Yay!!

They carry an amazing amount of gorgeous yarns! Madelinetosh, Scrumptious, Shibui Knits....

I picked up a few goodies that I couldn't resist.

Yes, this 49er fan bought these colors. You see, I promised a cute hat to my adorable baby model, and it was long overdue.

Technically I knit two of these. One for him and one for his twin brother. Their mommies are big Packers fans!

4. 3 baby hats in a week. I have to admit, it was nice to do some gift knitting for very appreciative people. Even though it puts me behind schedule a bit when it comes to design knitting, it is worth every minute to see happy moms and adorable kids wearing something I made for them. Plus, those suckers are quick to knit. Instant gratification!

5. Did you watch that 49er game?!?! Go Niners! What an awesome win! I'll be watching the game this coming Sunday somewhere in Phoenix as I'll be there for TNNA. I'm so excited to be able to see knitting friends, especially Zonda, and have a bit of a vacation. My patterns will be available at the Deep South Fibers Booth!

6. When I get back from TNNA next week, I'll be having arthroscopic surgery on my knee. I've had two knee surgeries before, way back when when I was in grammar school and high school and playing sports nonstop. My knee has been hurting A LOT the past six months, and despite physical therapy, it has continued to be bothersome. Well, according to the MRI, that's because there isn't much cartilage left in there. OUCH. I'm actually looking forward to surgery because then I know I'll be on the road to recovery!

7. Blackberry Brambles has been reformatted and is now available! The new format also features an additional size.

8. Socks socks socks. That's what December was all about for me. The Sock Knitters Anonymous Mystery Sock KAL has been an awesome! There are 544 projects right now of my design! It's not to late to come join us :)

I also finished up a design that was released at the beginning of the month for Woolgirl's Wizard of Oz Sock Club. The theme was the Witch's Guard and the design...Pointy Sticks. Remember that picot I was in love with...

Note to self...take better pictures before you mail off your designs...ugh...

9. 2012 will not be all about socks. I promise. I have a new design on the needles for The Plucky Knitter that I just LOVE! Well, knitting with Sarah's yarns doesn't hurt either :) And it is not too late to sign up for Twisted's Shawlette Club that I'm designing for! I can't wait! The line-up of designers and indie dyers is pretty awesome. I'm so excited to be designing with Little Red Bicycle's Yarns! Her booth was one that I loved at Sock Summit!!!

10. Downton Abbey. I heart it so. If you haven't seen it, go, stop reading this. Happiness awaits! Oh, and for more fabulous things of 2012, check out this awesome post by Cheekyattitude. Thank you Tricia!!

So that's what has been happening around here. Now, what have you guys been up to? What's on your needles? on your Kindle? on your mind? Do tell :)

Happy Knitting!

xoxo Irishgirlieknits

Gooooooooooo

2012-01-14T14:09:00.001-08:00

NINERS!

First, wear lil guy out at the airplane museum...

Then watch the Niners beat the Saints! Almost end of first quarter and we just scored!!

Lil guy is upstairs "resting" and watching a movie, auntie IGK is knitting and cheering on her team.

A good day, definitely!

Go Niners!
Xoxo irishgirlieknits

New Year, New Designs

2012-01-04T21:26:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!

I'm still marinating on my new year's goals/ideas/resolutions, but I do know I want to continue expanding my designing. And so far the year has been going great in that department!

Thank you all for your enthusiasm for the Mystery Sock pattern! 366 projects already!! And lots of lively discussion on the SKA mystery sock thread here and in our growing Irish Girlie Knits' Group on Ravelry (hey, have you joined?!).

I also have a new design that was just released by Kollage Yarns, Alpine Lake.

I absolutely love this design. It is an oversized cowl in their new yarn Lofty. The yarn is a dream to knit with and you only need two skeins to knit up either the oversized cowl version or the infinity version. The pattern is available for download over on Patternfish. Plus the pattern is reversible, so it doesn't matter if you fold the cowl over a bit :)

But really, you'll love this because it knits up in no time! On size 10 needles!

Fortunately I have two skeins left over to knit one for me :)

One other exciting designing news... I updated my retailers list on Irishgirlieknits.com and I'm so excited that my IGK patterns are available in over 50 local yarn stores!!

So what is on your needles in the new year? I did finish Dad's socks, but I need to take pictures of them. They may just be a sock version of Alpine Lake....you'll have to wait and see!

Happy Knitting!
xoxo Irishgirlieknits

Gratitude List #8

2011-12-31T18:17:00.000-08:00

I can't think of a better way to mark the ending of this year. In all honesty, it has been a crummy 2011, but at the same time, I have so much to be grateful for.

66. Celebrating a wonderful Christmas holiday with my family and friends.

67. A good movie can be such a happy distraction. I saw Girl with A Dragon Tattoo this week and it was excellent. If you haven't seen Crazy, Stupid, Love rent it right now. It just made me smile last night. And Ryan Gosling is so adorable in it too.

68. Taking time to relax this week. I feel like I've caught up on sleep, organized a bit, made time for fun, and finished reading the Hunger Games series. Oh Peeta, how I love you! I read the last two books in a day for each of them. So good!!

69. Being blessed with an awesome group of knitting friends! I heart you guys and couldn't have gotten through this year without you. I started my IGK group on Ravelry this year and I'm so glad I did! It is such a fun group :) and I especially love our knit-alongs! Next up is a Cotty KAL, so come join us. And Cotty is on sale for $4.50 from now until Jan. 8!

70. I have four new designs that will be released in January and (sh!!!) no deadlines in the next month or so! I need a little time to breathe and create. Plus I have a gorgeous design on my needles right now that I'm enjoying. My first design will be released later tonight...I'm designing for the Sock knitters Anonymous Mystery KAL in January! The pattern will be released in 4 different clues! Come join us here. I'm going to pretend that I am not nervous about releasing a mystery sock pattern, especially when there are already 122 projects for it on Ravelry! EEEK!

71. Finishing a pair of socks before the end of the year. Lil' Snowboarder requested socks for Christmas (love that kid!) and she has been coveting this STR colorway all year.

She was so excited to receive one on Christmas, I know she'll be thrilled to now have a pair!

72. I hope to celebrate the new year tomorrow by finishing another pair of socks. Pa will be so happy to finally have a new pair of socks. Well, not as happy as if I just mended his old ones, but I'll be happy knowing a new pair of socks are done.

73. Although I'm not yet 100%, the past two weeks I have felt the healthiest I've been in the past four months. That is a lot to be grateful for.

74. The music of the Nutcracker. I've fallen asleep to it probably every night since we saw it last week. Such a happy memory!

75. 2011 is done in less than 6 hours.....woohooo! I am grateful to have survived this year.

Wishing you and yours a very happy and healthy new year!!!

xoxo Irishgirlieknit

P.S. I'm also offering a new year's sale in my Ravelry Shop. Just use the coupon code happynewyear between now and Jan. 8, and you'll receive 20% off any of my individual IGK patterns here.

Merry Memories!

2011-12-27T18:18:00.000-08:00

It has been such a wonderful week of happy holiday celebrating, that it is almost easiest to share with pictures.

I hope you all had a Merry Christmas and a happy holidays!!
xoxo Irishgirlieknits

{this moment}

2011-12-23T12:48:00.000-08:00

I can't believe how big these two are getting! And how much they love spending time together! This is what the holidays are all about :)

Happy Christmas!

xoxo Irishgirlieknits

Twas the week before Christmas....

2011-12-22T23:54:00.000-08:00

...and all through the house, there was hustle and bustle, and no time for blogging or clicking a mouse.

Or time to continue pretending I can rhyme..haha. You know things are busy when IrishDad comments that I haven't blogged in a week. Oh, how I wish it was because I've been secretly knitting and don't want to show you. There has been some secret knitting, but not much.

I did finish mom's Comfort Food gloves.

I knit the second one up in just a day, so technically, if you've got the yarn and need a last minute gift, get going :) I knit these up in Blue Moon's Gaea....just lovely!

Cheekyattitude snapped this picture in between taking pictures for two new designs I have coming out! So excited to show you these soon!

A very special Christmas gift arrived last week that I've been waiting to show you! Meet my very own Santa Host, made by Erica's awesome mom, Candy (seriously, no wonder Erica is crafty with a mom like this!)!

I just love him! And he sits atop a wine bottle, so he'd make a perfect hostess gift!

The details make him such a special, unique Santa....from his charming hat, to perfect beard, to his lovely basket....

I was misty-eyed when I saw how Candy captured my Summer Wind pattern and then included yarn and a project on the needles, using Kollage Yarns Glisten! Candy has knit quite a few of my designs and I'm so touched that she took the time to make this special Santa for me and surprise me with him! Thank you Candy!! He will definitely watch over my stash throughout the year! (and Erica, get going on planning our knitting adventure in Michigan so I can give your mom a big hug!!)

I'm officially on vacation until the new year and the past few days have included appointments, last minute shopping, cookie consuming (note the lack of pictures?!), attempts at secret holiday knititng, and making a few very special holiday memories with Lil' Snowboarder and Lil' Guy. I'll be back with more details but until then...

A very happy princess after the Nutcracker performance in San Francisco Tuesday evening....we were one of the last ones in the building because someone had such a hard time picking out her very first nutcracker :)

Happy Holidays!!!
xoxo Irishgirlieknits

{this moment}

2011-12-16T01:16:00.000-08:00

Happy Friday! Don't forget you have until midnight tonight for the last Blogiversary Special!

xoxo Irishgirlieknits

Blogiversary Special #5

2011-12-15T01:43:00.000-08:00

I don't want to jinx it, but the busy busy part of my job is just about behind me!!! Yay!! All my reports are done for the year, one more IEP, and now just for some fun holiday "meetings"! I even made fudge tonight for our holiday staff meeting tomorrow. Let the holiday baking begin!

First, let's announce the winner of the Blogiversary Prize!

Congrats to Peppermint Mocha Mama!!! I'll be sending you a package of yarny goodness just in time for Christmas! And I can't wait to try your apple crumble recipe.

I also picked a few other winners to pick a free IGK pattern from my Ravelry shop! They are...

EliArendt
CelticCastOn (ok, beware of the adorable sweater and the beyond cute kiddo when you click that link!)
Janmarie

I'll message you all tomorrow, but if you see this before I do, feel free to let me know which pattern you'd like. You can message me on ravelry (irishgirlieknits) or email me irishgirlieknits AT gmail DOT com

Thank you all again for participating! I loved reading everyone's holiday traditions. If you haven't read through the comments, I suggest you do. It'll make you smile. Well, and you may want to try FowlervillesDeb's Homemade Bailey's Irish Cream. Seriously, that is on my to-do list.

A few of my favorite holdiay traditions...

Watching Christmas movies.....my sister texted me late one night a week or two ago telling me Meet Me in St. Louis was on and I immediately began watching it. Didn't matter that I own the DVD. Other favorites include Love Actually, Christmas in Connecticut, the Ally McBeal Christmas episodes with Robert Downey Jr...... I could go on and on.

Holiday knitting. Even if it is just a gift or two, there is something about the deadline, late night holiday knitting that I do love. Especially next week when I'll have a few days off...knit knit knit. Everyone wants socks this year. Well, technically, Irish Dad wants his socks mended. ugh.

Holiday baking. I love it! I used to go all out, but I've scaled back a bit lately (that should read I'm too tempted to eat the treats!). That fudge in the fridge from earlier tonight will be delish tomorrow!! I'll definitely be making Mimi's Sugar cookies this year. Ok, re-reading that post just made me teary. It'll be our first Christmas without Mimi. And that is why I love traditions....memories...

My mom, sister, and I started what I hope will be a tradition, doing something special to get us in the holiday spirit. Last weekend we spent the day in the city shopping, looking at the holiday decorations, just having a nice day together. I love the city around the holidays.

Now for our last Blogiversary special!! Only fitting to offer Winter Wonder for a special 50% off sale price of $3 from now until the end of Dec. 16 (11:59pm PST)!

And since this is our last special, and tomorrow (Friday) is my mom's birthday, I'm also offering Maryanne for the same special 50% off sale price of $3 from now until the end of Dec. 16 (11:59pm PST)!

Feel free to wish my mom Happy Birthday in the comments too! I know I have at least one glove knit for her. Better than last year, I guess!

Oh, and today is Bailey's birthday! She's 7. This is one of my favorite pictures of her from last year.

Okay, it is late late late. Must to bed. I'll be back a bit more though this weekend. I have the best Christmas decoration ever to share with you. A new holiday tradition for me :)

Happy Holidays!!
xoxo Irishgirlieknits

Blogiversary Special #3 & #4

2011-12-09T15:49:00.000-08:00

Happy Friday! Busy busy week, but now it is countdown to holiday vacation time!! And another weekend filled with holiday fun....work party tonight, shopping downtown tomorrow with the family, and maybe getting some holiday baking done :) Must not forget the knitting too....

Today's treat :) Yummy!

To continue with the blogiversary fun, here's specials #3 and #4.

Tonight until the end of Saturday (11:59pm PST), Dancette is on sale for 50% off! $3.00 for a gorgeous shawl that you still have time to knit before Christmas if you want. No coupon needed!

Blogiversary special #4.... a yarny contest!!! One special winner will be receiving a few skeins of gorgeous yarn and an IGK tote bag! Just leave a comment sharing one of your favorite holiday traditions...whether it be an activity, recipe, favorite song to decorate the tree to.... Please leave a way to contact you if you win (e.g., ravelry name, email). Plus a few others will win an IGK pattern too!

Off to get ready for the holiday party!! Happy Friday!
xoxo Irishgirlieknits

Blogiversary Special #2

2011-12-04T23:59:00.000-08:00

What a whirlwind of a weekend. I forgot how quickly December weekends seem to fly by. This one was no exception. Just a few highlights....

Holiday decorating has begun.

Two patterns with looming deadlines were sent off.

One Mystery Sock KAL design has made some serious progress! So excited, but alas, can't show you any pictures since it is..a mystery. But I am using a gorgeous skein of Plucky Knitter Primo! So dreamy. I just love this yarn! Now to write up the pattern and get it to my test knitters (sorry guys! It is coming!).

Did I tell you guys I'm taking more graduate-level courses for a specific certification for work? It has been on the to-do list for quite awhile and it started in October. I'm taking an accelerated course that started in October and I've been managing ok until Thanksgiving weekend. Fortunately I can at least knit during my 5 hours a week of video lectures and my 1 hour a week class (I love this online class thing!). But this past week, it has definitely been cramping my style. Just another year of this....woo-hoo... Anyways, this week's test has been taken (yes, there is a test every week), so check that off the list.

Lots of college football was watched and the 49ers are the NFC West Champs!

My list of all the things I had planned to accomplish though is just as long. Oh well.

So let's start our week off right with Blogiversary Special #2...

Comfort Food, another quick knit project for those holiday gifts, is 50% off (just $3.00) on Monday only (well, starting now until Monday Dec. 5 at 11:59pm PST)!

Knit in aran weight yarn, this will knit up quickly!

Did your weekend fly by? What do you have planned for the week ahead? And dare I ask about that holiday knitting? I won't, if you won't.

Happy Knitting!
xoxo Irishgirlieknits

{this moment}

2011-12-02T20:43:00.000-08:00

Happy Friday!!

Just a few more hours left for the Snowboarder Deal of the Day!

Check back sometime this weekend for a contest and the next deal (hint hint...the pattern is a comforting knit! And quick holiday gift too!).

xoxo Irishgirlieknits

5 years!

2011-12-01T23:17:00.000-08:00

Kind of crazy that I've been blogging now for 5 years! Who could have thought that it would have led to an amazing group of friends and a budding designing career! I know I couldn't have.

So for the next week or so, we're going to do 5 fun things. I haven't thought of all of them yet, but I'm pretty sure you guys will enjoy them.

First up, the newly reformatted Freestyle Snowboarder Hat.

My first pattern that I offered for sale is now shiny and pretty, and definitely written a bit clearer! Just in time for winter!

It was perfect timing that Jill was able to reformat this. Thank you Jill! Speaking of Jill, aka Knitterella, did you guys see that the Yarn Harlot gave a huge shout out today about Jill's knitting gift tags? They were featured as one of the gifts for knitters.

Okay. Back to the pattern. I love the striped version of this. Look how little Lil' guy looks!

I still love how the decreases work too.

When I was reformatting the pattern, I knit another one for Lil' Guy in Kollage Yarns Fantastic (seriously, that yarn is fantastic!).

I think I may knit a few of these for gifts. Well, that is once I start my holiday knitting. It is only Dec. 1, right? I love the striped version and have quite a few leftovers around here that will work!

Back to the blogiversary fun....

From now until the end of Friday, Dec. 2 (11:59pm PST), The Freestyle Snowboarder Hat will be offered for $3.00! One day to score a deal on an easy holiday gift knit.

I'll probably offer another pattern or two for a special, one-day 50% off price....any you'd like to see featured, let me know. Plus, we'll do some contests!

A blogiversary week of fun! Thank you guys! I wouldn't be here without you.

30 Days!

2011-11-30T23:07:00.000-08:00

Woohooo! 30 days of blogging for the month of November! I'm pretty proud of myself and all of you who participated too. What did you think? Too many doggy pictures? I definitely couldn't blog on a daily basis, but it did help me think a bit more creatively about posting. November was a month with obstacles that would normally prevent me from blogging (e.g., I was sick a lot, had secret knitting projects, busy holiday weekends), so it was interesting to see that I actually was able to come up with things to blog about.

In knitting news....

Tonight I finished one of the secret knitting projects and sent that off. Yay! That always feels good. It had a picot on it, if you recall (sidenote for my bestest friend in the whole wide world...the picot is the bumpy little things on the top of the sock).

I'm finishing up a new sock design for Kollage Yarns, using that pretty skein of Sock-a-licious. No matter what patterns or designs call to me (e.g., I'm dying to cast on a new shawlette design), when I'm knitting socks, everything seems right. I shall forever be a sock knitter.

I need to bust a move on my mystery sock design for the Sock Knitters Anonymous Mystery Sock KAL in January. My test knitters are ready. I am not. But I shall conquer that this weekend.

Did you see this? I'm so excited to be a part of Twisted's Shawlette Club (that's me designing in Jan. 2013)!! Look at that list of indie dyers and designers. I've gone back and forth about stopping all clubs for next year because I just can't keep up, but this club seriously makes me want to sign-up. For March's shipment alone with Tina's yarns and Debbi's awesome designs!

I'm going to TNNA in January! I will finally, finally get to hang out with Zonda!!!

I still haven't started Christmas knitting and Mom's birthday gift is still just one glove. How about you?

My blogiversary is this week too!! I'm thinking of doing something fun....check back!

Until then...dogggies!

Happy Knitting!
xoxo Irishgirlieknits

The View from my Lap

2011-11-29T23:58:00.000-08:00

Long day, but a good night....

Doggy, sock knitting, hot tea, and a warm fire. Oh, and rewatching Game of Thrones.

Winter is coming.

Stay warm!
Xoxo irishgirlieknits

IGK Cyber Monday

2011-11-28T06:35:00.000-08:00

Back to work. Back to eating healthy after all that stuffing. But, to take the edge off just a bit, we're celebrating Cyber Monday the IGK way!

Today is the last day to receive 25% off any of my IGK individual patterns from my ravelry shop. No coupon necessary!

My recommendations for perfect last minute holiday gifts are...

Summer Wind

It has been such a popular pattern (look #68 in popular Cowls on Ravelry!) and I think almost anyone on your holiday gift list would enjoy one. Plus, you probably already have a gorgeous skein of sock yarn in your stash that you've been wanting to knit and it'll be perfect for this. I love the way Sheri shows the many ways to wear this too.

Fine Fella

Perfect for the guy or gal on your list and will knit up quickly too! I'm still hoping to have time to knit another one of these.

And to sweeten the deal today, I have overstock of my Irishgirlieknits tote bags and thought I'd share a deal with you guys. For just $10, plus $2 for US shipping, you can have one! They make great project bags! These 100% cotton tote bags feature the Irish Girlie Knits Designs logo on them and measure 14 x 14 x 3.

If you are interested, email me at irishgirlieknits AT gmail DOT com with your paypal info and I'll send you an invoice.

Any other cyber monday specials that you are taking advantage of today? Favorite etsy shops to share? I have just a few gifts left to purchase!

Happy Monday!
xoxo Irishgirlieknits

p.s. I still can't believe I've blogged every day so far in November! Crazy! Thanks for bearing with a few quick picture posts this past week with the busy holiday week :) It has been awesome catching up with those of you blogging every day too! And if you didn't participate in NaBloPoMo, go ahead and blog just once this week. Baby steps!

Tradition

2011-11-27T22:33:00.000-08:00

Every other year for the past few years, Notre Dame has played Stanford here in the bay area, just a few miles from my house, on the Saturday of Thanksgiving weekend. And each year, our tradition of tailgating before the game and going to the game has become a bigger event. My brother goes all out in the hosting/setting up/coordinating department!

Here he is playing with the new ND bean bag toss.

Lil' Guy can already catch and throw a football pretty well for a four-year old.

Ah! Sticks, dirt and rocks! Perfect entertainment for Lil' Guy!

There was tons of food, but my favorite by far were these cupcakes my sister-in-law made! Too cute!

We had great seats and it is always awesome to watch and cheer for the Irish in person!

Yeah, it was a tough loss. And lil' guy was worn out from the torture of the Irish not playing too great.

This year we had another fabulous time, despite the sad loss. But I can't wait for 2013! Go Irish!! Hey, at least we made it to a bowl game! One more football game to look forward to!

Go Irish!
xoxo Irishgirlieknits

Right now

2011-11-26T23:53:00.001-08:00

This picture sums it up.

Despite the Notre Dame loss, today was an awesome day! Lots more pictures tomorrow...just getting this post in under the wire!

Go Irish!
Xoxo irishgirlieknits

{this moment}

2011-11-25T19:10:00.001-08:00

{this moment} A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember. If you're inspired to do the same, visit SouleMama leave a link to your 'moment' in the comments for all to find and see.

Happy Turkey Day!
Xoxo Irishgirlieknits

PS. 25% off IGK individual patterns available in ravelry shop til Monday. No coupon necessary.

PPS. Tomorrow we'll be at the Notre Dame vs. Stanford football game!!! Go Irish!

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T16:14:00.001-08:00

Turkey is done!

Wishing you and yours a very happy Thanksgiving!
Xoxo irishgirlieknits

P.s. All individual IGK patterns available through ravelry are 25% off through Monday! No coupon necessary. Thank you!

Pre-Thanksgiving Dinner

2011-11-23T23:20:00.001-08:00

A fave ....The Lobster Shack.

Lobstah roll!

Lobstah cakes!

Tomorrow....turkey!!

Happy Thanksgiving!
Xoxo Irishgirlieknits

Don't judge :)

2011-11-22T19:47:00.001-08:00

Breaking Dawn with the girls! Can't wait to see the vampire baby birth! Hehehe
Happy twilighting!
Xoxo Irishgirlieknits

Dear Monday

2011-11-21T22:12:00.000-08:00

You stink. At least today you did. In addition to a crummy day at work, you had to top it off with the worst root canal experience I've ever had. That says a lot coming from a girl who has had a few and recognizes she is thoroughly freaked out by the dentist. I don't think I will ever, ever go to this endodontist again. I am blessed with the best dentist in the world, but due to the serious infection that I've been dealing with, she didn't feel comfortable doing it.

So instead of dealing with you anymore Monday, I am going to focus on two things.

First, pretty yarn.

Look at this pretty yarn that I got from Knitted Wit at Knitting Lab. It is just delicious!! Be careful, she has some gorgeous colors of Shine in the shop right now.

Second thing I'm focusing on: Tomorrow is Tuesday. Which means just two more days of working until lots of holiday fun AND tomorrow night is knit nite AND we are going to see this. You know it. Just wish Erica was here to go see it with us like last time.

Screw you Monday! Bring on Tuesday!

Love,
Irishgirlieknits aka the girl who is very glad for pain meds tonight

Go Niners!

2011-11-20T16:51:00.000-08:00

The doggies have new 49ers' bandanas.

Now they can relax since the Niners won again today! 9-1 baby!! Go Niners!

Happy Weekend!
xoxo Irishgirlieknits

Pumpkin Time!

2011-11-19T22:37:00.000-08:00

I love this time of year! The chill in the air and rain outside. Handknit socks on my feet. A fire to knit by. And football to watch.

My sister, dad and I watched the Notre Dame football game today and started some of the holiday baking.

Two loaves of Pumpkin Bread made.

Then for fun, I wanted to make the pumpkin crunch cake Sheri from The Loopy Ewe posted on her blog this week. It looked very much like the recipe my sister uses to make a yummy pumpkin cake pie dessert, except my sister's recipe divides it between two pie pans. It takes the best part of pumpkin pie and adds cake instead of crust! Yum.

My photo doesn't do the recipe justice. Delish!! Thanks for sharing it Sheri.

Lots of exciting college football games today have meant lots of knitting time too. I have just a few more inches left to knit on my secret, picot-happy sock!

How has your weekend been? Hopefully nice and relaxing. On tomorrow's list is to finalize our shopping list for the cooking this week. Any favorite Thanksgiving recipe you guys want to share? You know I love new recipes.

Happy Weekend!
xoxo Irishgirlieknits

{this moment}

2011-11-18T22:33:00.000-08:00

Kollage Yarns Sock-a-licious

Happy Friday!

xoxo Irishgirlieknits

Right Now

2011-11-17T23:36:00.000-08:00

My head is full. I'm tired. I'm so unbelievably excited that tomorrow is Friday, which means the weekend is almost here, and I feel good! And then next week is a very short week at work, followed by lots of family time for Thanksgiving weekend.

I'm really enjoying blogging every day. Partly because so many of us are blogging every day together. I love reading everyone's posts! In December, I hope to continue blogging more, but I'm also hoping that my Physical Therapist will give me and my knee the okay to perhaps do some type of exercise every day. I figure if I was able to set aside sometimes 10 minutes or 30 minutes or more for blogging, I can make time for exercise in December too. Nothing overly ambitious, but now that I am starting to feel a bit better, just adding a little more.

I'm hopeful that I will actually have a finished birthday gift for mom this year. Look, one down! And her birthday isn't until Dec. 16.

Comfort Food in BMFA Gaea

I just read Turtlegirl's post with her pretty Honey Badger socks and it made me smile :) Go look, they'll make you smile too. And they feature an awesome gusset modification.

I still haven't finished my Honey Badger socks.

But, I'm hoping to finish one of my new picot socks this weekend. I love that at least 10 of you admitted your love for picots too! Allison loves picots, but she also loves twisted stitches. I'll admit that gave me pause. Hmmm...I've always kind of not liked twisted stitches and sort of avoided them, but to be honest I'm not sure why. Should I give them another chance? Maybe... Actually, Allison has an awesome new design in current issue of Twist Collective that features just enough twisted stitches :) Pretty pretty!

I love that, just as my knitting friends expressed, some of you guys can't stand picots! That is going to please them to no end!

I finished reading Rachael Herron's new book, A Life in Stitches. I loved it. I want to give the book to my mom for her birthday too. Rachael's stories resonated with me and really captured why I love that I knit. Why I am a knitter. Why I can't imagine ever not knitting.

I'm reading (well, I'm on page 4?) the Hunger Games now. Disco just started the series, and it reminded me that it has been on my must-read list for awhile.

Speaking of books.....admit it...who already has their Breaking Dawn tickets??? I'm proud to say I'm not seeing it opening weekend, but my friends and I have plans to go see it Tuesday night after knit nite!! Yay! Cheesy vampire romance....I'll definitely bring my knitting to the movie I think :)

And now I'm going to go watch Bones, knit on my picot sock, and then go to bed.

What's going on with you guys right now?

Happy almost Friday!!
xoxo Irishgirlieknits

Wordless Wednesday

2011-11-16T22:57:00.001-08:00

Man, I know how they feel! Almost Friday?
Xoxo Irishgirlieknits

I heart picots.

2011-11-15T23:18:00.000-08:00

There. I said it. I absolutely, 100% love picot edges. Particularly on socks, but put them on a baby something and I think you've tripled the cuteness factor.

I'm sure many of you already know of my fondness for the picot. It started back with the mini-Monkey socks, inspired by Cara. Being friends with Gail, I actually thought everyone loved picots.

And then there was that moment a few months ago where I realized something profound. Not everyone loves the picot edge.

I know, shocking.

Afterall, everyone seemed to love their Cotty socks, picots and all.

But I still remember the moment when I made this discovery. It was a relaxing weekend at the coast with my bestest knitting friends and I was designing a new sock and I mumbled something about how I really wanted to put a picot on it, but wasn't sure. And then, almost immediately before they realized what they had done, there seemed to be a collective groan. Not one groan, but if I recall, a few. It may have been the sangria, but then their true confession came out.

"Not a picot!"
"Can't you just do a plain rib? Not everyone wants to do a picot!"
"I hate picots."

The groans continued. I think I was shocked how much they seemed to dislike picots. Not my beloved picots. Probably the absolute favorite thing about some of my socks. My dear friends who had knit those Cotty socks, despite the picots, really, truly did not like picots.

I have to say, I'm glad they told me. Some of you may be very glad they told me. I know they are very, very glad they told me. Or else Capitola would have had a picot. And definitely the Honey Badgers would have had a picot. I mean seriously, go look at these pictures. Of course, honey badger needed a picot edge!

If your friends can't tell you like it is, who can, right? We still joke about the picots and my crazy love for them.

But they aren't going to knit this next pattern.

And I don't care. Because the second I cast on this picot, I was in love all over again :)

I'm curious....do you have a favorite knitting technique? One you despise? Are Gail and I the only ones crazy for picots?

Happy Picots!!
xoxo Irishgirlieknits

P.S. Gail has the best picot cuff tutorial here. Enjoy!

Congrats!!

2011-11-14T23:26:00.000-08:00

I just have to send a huge congratulations out to my fabulous friend Thayer, whose new sweater design is not only featured in Twist Collective, but it is on the cover!!!!

Photo courtesy of Twist Collective, pattern Jaina by Thayer Preece, photo credit: Jane Heller

Pattern purchased...one step closer to that dream of looking like that on a beach someday, with my new handknit sweater. Seriously, I must knit this in the new year. I just love it!!

Congratulations Thayer!! I'm so fortunate to have friends like you who continue to inspire me to keep designing!!

xoxo Irishgirlieknits

Gratitude List #7

2011-11-13T23:58:00.000-08:00

61. Waking up to Bailey Boo sitting on my tummy.

62. Bailey Boo not wanting to go downstairs in the morning because she is sitting on my tummy. Even when offered a treat, she doesn't want to leave. It kind of breaks my heart having to nudge her off. But then, I don't really want to get up to do that early walk, so I nudge her. Truth comes out.

63. These big, big eyes looking at me.

64. Doggie snuggles.

65. The way both Bailey and Puddles get so, so happy every time I open the door and come home. It is as if they haven't seen me in yearsssssss. Love love love.

Here's to a fabulous week ahead. What are you grateful for this week?

Happy happy!
xoxo Irishgirlieknits

Gratitude List #6

2011-11-12T23:41:00.000-08:00

Time to bring back my gratitude journal. I'm really trying to focus on the positive things in my life right now, which means letting go of some of that negative energy. And that isn't always the easiest thing to do, if you know what I mean.

Things I am grateful for today:

56. Feeling better today, and that includes NOT needing a nap or pain medication for the first time in over a week!

57. Yummy treats at the farmer's market. I bought healthy food too, but these were prettier :)

58. Fresh-baked pumpkin bread.

59. Watching Notre Dame football with my family! A victory made it even sweeter.

60. Time to actually knit, and to knit in my favorite knitting spot.

What are you grateful for this week?

Happy Weekend!
xoxo Irishgirlieknits

{this moment}

2011-11-11T21:36:00.001-08:00

She found one! Happy Weekend!

xoxo Irishgirlieknits

Day 10.

2011-11-10T23:08:00.000-08:00

Here goes day 10 of nonstop-blogging. I really am enjoying reading everyone else's daily posts and it reminds me why I started this blog. To keep in touch with my knitting friends, despite their distance! And to meet new friends too!

Since I spent most of today sleeping (ugh! stupid tooth infection that was supposed to heal in a few days seems to be taking an eternity and hurts!!), I fear I don't have a lot of knitting to show. I have yarn I could show, but I've been having a hard time either being home or awake during the daylight hours with the time change. I'm definitely going to prep better this weekend!

There are a few fun things around the blogosphere that I did want to point out.

1. Check out Disco's I-cord friendship bracelets! Too cute for words!

2. Sheri from The Loopy Ewe knit another Summer Wind because she so enjoyed knitting the first one! This post made me smile this week, even when it hurt to smile :) Plus, if you didn't know it, Sheri has a mini-Yarn Harlot effect! Both times that she has blogged about Summer Wind has given the pattern a nice bump in pattern sales. Thank you again Sheri!!

3. I mailed off a new design to Kollage Yarns this week. I used their new yarn Lofty, and boy do I love it! Perfect for those last minute holiday gifts.

4. Pinterest. I'm slowly figuring it out. What I can say is that this week it has me thinking all about the holidays....new recipes to try, new crafts to make. So inspiring. Any particular recipe/crafty thing/want for christmas gift that has you inspired for this holidays? I'd love to hear.

5. Tomorrow the last Harry Potter movie comes out on DVD! So excited for my copy to arrive tomorrow.

And because this post needs a picture....

Halloween trick-or-treating really makes me wish he lived 2-minutes away instead of 2+ hours away! He is seriously going to LOVE the Star Wars Lego Advent Calendar that Auntie IGK got for him!

Recently, Disco asked me if I've enjoyed the more frequent blogging. If I wasn't sick, I'd have to say yes! Being sick has made it a bit challenging to have creative topics or things to share. However, I think it is also helping me to think a bit more about what else I can blog about. Sara blogged about some of her recent crafty book purchases. I've been meaning to do something like that. Disco, Mary-Heather and Tricia shared recipes. Another one that I could do. I also think I have a longtime post coming about lingering UFOs....

What about you guys? Are you enjoying blogging on a more regular basis? Any topics spark your interest or want to hear more about?

Tomorrow should be a fun day....we are going wedding dress shopping for my sister's wedding dress!

Happy knitting!
xoxo Irishgirlieknits

Wordless Wednesday

2011-11-09T20:37:00.001-08:00

Now all I need is my knitting, but if I get up, I may wake the doggies! Oh well. Tomorrow is kind of my work Friday since it is a 3-day weekend this weekend! Yay!

Happy Knitting!
Xoxo Irishgirlieknits

Knitted Wit

2011-11-08T22:47:00.000-08:00

Saturday at Knitting Lab was spent hanging out with Lorajean of Knitted Wit. Her yarns are such bright, happy colors! I thought her booth was one of the ones that stood out in the Market Place. She has been carrying all of my patterns since Sock Summit, and it was so fun to help her customers who were purchasing my patterns pick out the yarn to go with them! She has lots of lovely samples knit up too, which makes it really easy to sell her yarn and my pattern :)

I love how her Comfort Food Fingerless Gloves knit up in her Balkan MCN yarn (merino + cashmere + nylon = heaven).

Here she is modeling Winter Wonder, in her gorgeous Silky N Plied yarn. The yarn is dreamy soft and drapey. Plus, she's offering IGK readers a special coupon code for 15% off her Silky N Plied, since it is perfect for Winter Wonder, one of the patterns for our Knitalong. Just enter the code: winter15 in her etsy shop for 15% off your Silky N Plied purchase. Thanks Lorajean!

And thank you to everyone who stopped by on Saturday! I had such a great time!

Happy Knitting!
xoxo Irishgirlieknits

Fun at Nine Rubies

2011-11-07T23:11:00.000-08:00

I had such a great time last Friday night at Nine Rubies' Local Designers Night.

It was so nice to meet fellow designer Hilary Smith Callis. You may be familiar with her very successful Citron pattern, but her sweaters are absolutely gorgeous! Cloudy Sunday and the Asteria Cardigan were very popular Friday night!

Lots of my local knitting friends stopped by and I really appreciated everyone's support. Betsy even came wearing her Summer Wind!

It was also nice to meet other knitters who came to the event, such as Audry. She even modeled her adorable giraffe hat pattern.

I love that my sister ~~dragged~~ brought her fiance to the event too. Aren't they cute?!

And that pretty basket of Plucky Knitter Primo, well there were only 3 or 4 skeins left after the evening! I came home with that gorgeous purple one in the back.

Thank you to everyone who came to the event, and especially to Saloni and Sudha from Nine Rubies for hosting us!

Fortunately, the horrible swelling of my mouth and cheek didn't happen til yesterday. Update on that, to spare you all the fabulous dentist details is that the dentist did a minor procedure today to get the swelling to go down. The fun part will be next week when there will be dental surgery once the swelling goes down. Still feeling awful, but she said it will take a few days for the antibiotics to help the swelling go down. Thank you guys for all the positive thoughts!

And look at that...an entire week of blogging! Woohoo!

Happy Knitting!
xoxo Irishgirlieknits

Quick Update

2011-11-06T22:17:00.000-08:00

Just a quick update tonight because I prefer not to write posts while on super-stronger-than-vicodin pain meds. I also prefer not to knit on those meds, so today has been mostly all about sleeping. Here's a quick rundown of how I spent my day today.

1. Slept in and so excited to have that extra hour of sleep since I was up every three hours to take pain meds and ice my face.
2. Woke up thinking perhaps the pain had gotten better, but then looked in the mirror and realized my entire left cheek and part of my mouth were swollen. Very different than prior head problem, and figured perhaps I should call my dentist, but called my doctor first.
3. Awesome doctor heard my symptoms and told me to meet him in the office in 40 minutes. On a Sunday. Bless his heart!
4. He thinks it may be some type of yucky dental infection, so prescribed antibiotic and stronger pain meds. Positive thing is that he doesn't think it is related to other head stuff.
5. Called my dentist and I have an appointment with her tomorrow afternoon.
6. Picked up meds and then slept for 5 hours.
7. Wondered what the dentist is going to do tomorrow since I can barely open my mouth it is so swollen. As in more swollen than after any root canal or gum surgery I have had.
8. This limited eating thing may do wonders for my diet this week :)
9. Ready to head back to bed.

No knitting though today. Thoroughly bummed. My vision of a lazy Sunday knitting on the couch didn't quite happen.
On the bright side, thank goodness I have awesome doctors who are so responsive. And hopefully the antibiotics will kick in tonight and my face won't be so swollen tomorrow.

And thank goodness this didn't happen Friday or Saturday! I would have been super bummed to miss the fun knitting events, which I promise to share details of hopefully tomorrow or Tuesday!

Night night!
xoxo Irishgirlieknits

5 good things.

2011-11-05T22:44:00.000-07:00

1. Supportive local yarn stores, such as Nine Rubies, who throw parties for local designers AND stock Plucky Knitter's gorgeous yarns. Well, stock it for as long as it can stay in the store, which isn't too long!

I'll share more pictures from last night's event, but that's for another post.

2. College football Saturdays, especially when the Irish win!

3. Reading blog posts from friends who are also trying to blog more in November. I love it! If you haven't already, go read....

Discoknits I am so proud of her karate chop!
Goddess Knitters Fellow college football fan!
Hizknits Missing Stephen this weekend as he is at the fabulous Knot Hysteria Retreat in Port Ludlow
Knittinggolfer's Blog Check out her pretty new sweater! Love!
Rainy Day Goods It was Mary Heather's tweets that reminded me it was NaBloPoMo!
One Stitch Short Sarah's tweets also reminded me that it was NaBloPoMo!
WildpeculiarJoy I so want to escape to that lovely fantasy house right about now!
A Day in the Life Manda is one of my fabulous test knitters! Can't wait til she shows us what she's knitting (hint, hint Manda!)!

4. Discovering new, inspiring blogs, such as Posie Gets Cozy! Thanks for recommending it Lorajean! Now I want to make these for Christmas!

5. An extra hour!! So excited that tomorrow we have an extra hour due to daylight savings! I'll admit, I desperately need that hour as the ongoing head/face pain I've been dealing with since September came back with a vengence last night. I've been taking pain meds and icing my head/face all day :( Hoping a good night's sleep and an extra hour will help me feel better tomorrow!

Want to share your good things? I'd love to hear them.

Happy Weekend!
xoxo Irishgirlieknits

{this moment}

2011-11-04T22:18:00.000-07:00

Happy Friday!

xoxo Irishgirlieknits

Knitting Lab!

2011-11-03T23:56:00.000-07:00

Interweave Knitting Lab is in my backyard this weekend. Well, practically :) Although I didn't sign up for any classes, I am looking forward to just hanging out with my knitting friends!

Since it is being hosted at the hotel right next to my office building, I just had to stop by the market for a bit after work. Best part was hanging out for a bit with Rachel Herron, aka Yarnagogo, and author of How to Knit a Love Song (the first of the Cypress Hollow series) and A Life in Stitches (which I'm almost done with and loving!)! She was signing books in Knitted Wit's booth tonight.

Of course, I did have to admit to her that the fabulous spinning wheel she sold me last year, for $100, has been a bit neglected. But, I know I want to learn to spin because when she said I could pass it on to someone else, my immediate, without hesitation, response was no way! I just need to set aside some time to learn :)

I had so much fun that I'm even sharing this picture of us....in which you guys now see my hair at the end of a very long day...ugh! I picked up a copy of How to Knit a Love Song, but I didn't start it tonight. Lorajean said I wouldn't be able to put it down :)

Speaking of Lorajean, check out her gorgeous Dancette! If you're coming to Knitting Lab, stop by and see her gorgeous yarns, many of which are knit up in Irish Girlie Knits samples! She's carrying all my patterns if you're looking for one in particular. And be sure to stop by Saturday at Noon when I'll be hanging out with her for an IGK Meet and Greet!

Knitted Wit's booth is right across from Nine Rubies booth, one of my LYS. Their booth looked fabulous!

But I especially loved seeing the new Fyberspates yarn that they will be carrying. They are taking pre-orders at the show.....tempting!

A lot of fun for a short time in the market! Tomorrow is going to be fun! And if you can, I'd love to see you tomorrow night at Nine Rubies, at their store which is just a few miles from Knitting Lab, for their Local Designers Night.

Plus, they've been saving their shipment of The Plucky Knitter's Primo fingering just for this event!! Yay!!

Happy Knitting!
xoxo Irishgirlieknits

Wordless Wednesday

2011-11-02T23:58:00.000-07:00

Happy Wednesday!
xoxo Irishgirlieknits

p.s. November won't be completely filled with doggie pictures, but um....there may be a few more with this attempt to blog everyday. And yarn. Doggies and yarn!

Dare I ask....

2011-11-01T23:35:00.000-07:00

...about holiday knitting?

I'm trying not to think about it, but that tends to be my problem. Not thinking about holiday knitting until maybe December 10! And then it is mom's birthday and oops....no gift!

Remember this yarn from last year?

One of those skeins was intended to be knit up for mom's birthday gift. Thank goodness she is understanding.

The first day of November and I can't help but think about the holidays ahead....Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year's. I love this time of year and I really want to take the time to enjoy it. And one of those ways is to perhaps re-think holiday knitting. Is it possible to be realistic about my holiday knitting goals? Paired with my designing goals?

What do you guys plan to do for the upcoming gift giving season? Please don't tell me you are already done.

I'll be honest. I learned a few years ago not to go crazy with the holiday knitting. However, my family really enjoys their knitted items. I do have a few extra Fine Fellas that can be a gift or two. But I think it is time to start making a proper list so that it doesn't sneak up on me.

Another question....are any of you doing NaBloPoMo? November is National Blog Posting Month and I've always wanted to try it. A few people were mentioning it today on Twitter and although I haven't completely decided to do it, I did post today. I think I may attempt to post everyday in November....we'll see. Anyone else?

I'd love to hear what you are thinking of for holiday knitting! And, if you have any suggestions for topics you'd like me to blog about in November, would love to hear that too!

Until tomorrow....maybe.....

Happy Knitting!
xoxo Irishgirlieknits

October Happenings.

2011-10-30T23:59:00.000-07:00

Just like that, the last day of October is upon us. How did that happen? The month seemed to fly by, probably because it was a busy one around here.

There were quite a few soccer games. I've been meaning to share with you some of the pictures of Lil' Guy at his game when I was visiting a few weeks ago. Before I show you, I should note that he wasn't quite himself (e.g., falling asleep at lunch), the game was during his normal nap time, and it was 90 degrees out.

There he is chasing after the ball.

He's getting right in the mix there. Well, um....if you look closer...

Yeap, that's him PUSHING....hey get out of my way?! Goodness.

But really, this one is my favorite!

Apparently he has never done this before. He must have been really tired. Oh, 4 year olds!

There were also quite a few trips to the pumpkin patch this past month. I think perhaps 6 or 7 trips?!!

There was some knitting.

I can't say enough wonderful things about this Anzula Squishy. I loved it before blocking my Summer Wind, but if it is possible, I love it even more after. The color, the bloom of the yarn, just lovely.

There is a bit of secret knitting going on as well. The evenings are starting to get cool, and knitting by the fire is one of my favorite things.

Yes, that is Kollage Yarns Lofty that I'm knitting with. Lofty, soft, and on size 10 needles, it is divine!

In IGK news, our new knitalong is about to start! I'm so excited that the group picked Winter Wonder and a holiday gift theme! Come join us for fun and prizes (and an IGK coupon code!).

This week is Interweave Knitting Lab, right here in San Mateo! Right next to my work too! Literally, the next building over :) I'll be there hanging out with Lorajean of Knitted Wit (she'll be carrying all of my IGK patterns!). We'll probably do a meet-up on Saturday, but I'll be there Friday too before the Nine Rubies Event! Did I mention that Nine Rubies will be carrying our favorite Plucky Knitter Primo yarn!!!! I didn't sign up for any classes...most of the ones I was interested in are sold out, but it should be a nice knitting weekend I think.

I can't believe tomorrow is Halloween. On a Monday too. Blah! I really wish I was up trick or treating with Lil' Guy! My brother and SIL go all out for Halloween. They were just starting the house decorating when I was there a few weeks ago.

I hope my brother sends me updated pictures! There is even a fog machine at night, with a strobe light!

Instead I'll be hanging with these cuties...

So what has been happening in your October? Anything fun planned for Halloween?

Happy Halloween!!
xoxo Irishgirlieknits

{this moment}

2011-10-28T18:12:00.000-07:00

Happy Happy Friday!!!

xoxo Irishgirlieknits

Just enough.

2011-10-22T00:13:00.000-07:00

Yarn that is. This is all I had left after binding off my Summer Wind last night.

I am over the moon in love with this yarn, Anzula Squishy. Last year Snowboarder actually introduced me to this yarn and brought it back for me from New York. I acquired a bit more of it this year at Sock Summit. Sabrina, the dyer behind Anzula, is also pretty fabulous! But now that I've knit with it...wow, wow, wow. I just love how squishy it is. I can't wait to block it!

So nice to finally have something off the needles! I need to start thinking about any holiday or gift knitting I need to do, so I'm glad to finish up something special for me :)

Happy Knitting!
xoxo Irishgirlieknits

{this moment}

2011-10-21T00:00:00.000-07:00

Happy Friday!

xoxo Irishgirlieknits

P.S. Go Irish! Beat Trojans!

10 good things.

2011-10-18T23:40:00.000-07:00

1. Tomorrow is Wednesday, which means we are two days closer to the weekend. I could use a weekend right about now :)

2. I swam today after a long day of work. Good for so many reasons, but especially because I made time for me.

3. New pretty yarn. I couldn't resist stopping at A Verb for Keeping Warm last Friday on my way up to visit little guy (see, any reason to justify a yarn store visit). They have such lovely yarns, hard to resist.

A pretty skein of AVFKW Toasted, for a Comfort Food Cowl I think.

Madelinetosh Chunky. Pretttttttyy! I can't wait to try this yarn!

4. Inspiration. I go in to Verb to buy yarn, and leave with the material to sew the gorgeous navy scarf below.

I blame Cupcakefaerie for talking about her sewing machine the night before, and Kristine for offering an awesome class to take to learn how to make this. I'm hoping it works with my schedule!

5. Interweave Knitting Lab is coming to San Mateo, literally right next to my office, in about two weeks!!! Yarn, right next store to work. Can't wait to see! Plus Knitted Wit will be there, along with Miss Babs, carrying my patterns. So fun. I think we may even do an IGK meet-and-greet at Knitted Wit's Booth! I'll keep you posted.

6. One of my LYS, Nine Rubies, is a sponsor for Knitting Lab and they are having a special Local Designers' Night on the Friday night of Knitting Lab. And guess who they asked to participate?! Me! I'm so honored to be featured with Hilary Smith Callis. Save the date if you are a local...I'd love to see you!!

7. Pumpkin bread. I'm craving some. Might need to make some tomorrow night.

8. Twisted. I love that store :)

9. Having healthy food in the fridge for the week....dinner, lunch, already made :)

10. Doggies fresh from the groomers! It was too late to take a picture when I got home tonight, but I can't wait to show you their new Halloween bandanas.

What good things are happening in your life?

Happy knitting!
xoxo Irishgirlieknits

Another good day.

2011-10-16T23:53:00.000-07:00

I spent the weekend with Lil' Guy while his parents were living it up in Vegas! Today we had a fabulous morning at the Pumpkin Patch, well, once he got over the fact that this pumpkin patch didn't have a bounce house.

He loved being able to pick out pumpkins and pull them in the wagon.

I loved how this pumpkin patch was set up. Just enough fun things to do with the kids, such as a petting zoo, pony ride, hay ride, fresh popcorn and kettle corn, and lots of little red wagons for all the pumpkins.

Every child was pulling a wagon filled with pumpkins and they all seemed quite proud. Well, except when it was time for a popcorn break. Lil' guy was quite happy to go for a ride.

While Lil' Guy was running through a garden tunnel, I snapped a picture of my Summer Wind in progress. I was able to knit on it a bit at the football game Thursday night and Saturday while hanging with lil' guy. I absolutely love love love the yarn, Anzula Squishy. Hopefully this one will be done soon :)

So how was your weekend? Cast on anything new? I did some secret swatching and was quite pleased with the results. Maybe pictures on that later this week. I can't wait to show you the pictures from Lil' Guy's soccer game on Saturday!

Happy October!
xoxo Irishgirlieknits

p.s. Don't forget, Monday, Oct. 17 is the last day to get the special introductory sale price on my new design, Fine Fella.

A Fine Fella

2011-10-14T23:39:00.000-07:00

This hat was born almost two year ago. So I am quite excited to finally share it with you. August was full of hat knitting, but I think I finally perfected the pattern. Introducing...

Fine Fella

Shown in The Plucky Knitter Primo Worsted, colorways Fine Fella (MC) and Oz (CC)

My great-aunt Mimi described her brother, my great-uncle Frank, as such a caring, friendly guy. They grew up during the Depression, and she says he always brought home a friend when he was on leave. When their mother would wonder how she would feed an extra, “Frankie” would say, “Ah mom. Give him mine.”

I designed the Uncle Frank socks in my great-uncle’s honor and used that cable pattern again here. I just know this hat is something he would have worn. After all, he was quite the fine fella.

Shown in The Plucky Knitter Primo Worsted, colorway Garnet Martini

This one also works for the ladies too!

Pattern: Fine Fella

Suggested Yarns: ~ 170 yards of worsted weight yarn such as The Plucky Knitter Primo Worsted, Madelinetosh Vintage, Malabrigo Rios, Kolláge Yarns Solace, Miss Babs Yowza, A Verb for Keeping Warm Toasted

~10 yards of worsted weight yarn for contrasting trim, if desired

Materials:

Size US 6 (4.00 mm) either DPNs or Circular 16” with DPNs needed for decreases or size to obtain gauge

Cable needle

Stitch markers

Tapesty needle

Gauge: 22 sts and 32 rows = 4” over st st

Size: one size fits most adults

Sizing Modifications: The ribbing on the hat provides a lot of stretch and accommodates most head sizes. However, if you would like to make the hat smaller or larger, it is recommended to make these modifications by working fewer (e.g., for smaller hat) or more (e.g., for larger hat) of the first row at the beginning of the pattern.

Finished measurements: 6 ¼” unstretched (9” streteched) width, 8 ¼ ” length

I'm also having a special introductory sale price of $4.50 through Monday, Oct. 17!

Once again, I have to give a huge thank you to Thayer (the gorgeous model!), Tricia (the awesome photographer), Dianne and Debs (super-speedy test knitters!) and Jill (the amazing graphic designer)! I seriously couldn't do this without them! And a special thanks to Snowboarder for modeling too!

I have to admit, this picture is probably my favorite :)

Speaking of fine fellas.....I'm watching Lil' Guy all weekend while his parents are out of town. I can't wait to see him play soccer tomorrow! We had a great evening at the park....I just love him to bits!

Last night I went to the Cal vs. USC football game at AT&T Park, where the SF Giants usually play. It may not have been a win for Cal, but it was a gorgeous night in the city. This was our view from our tailgater, complete with this fine fella...

Hope you all have a fantastic weekend!!
xoxo Irishgirlieknits

{this moment}

2011-10-14T01:14:00.000-07:00

Happy Friday!

xoxo Irishgirlieknits

P.S. Proper post coming soon, but wanted you to see my new pattern that I just released, plus it is on sale until Monday! And Saturday is the last day for Cotty, Winnie, and Uncle Frank special prices!

Potential

2011-10-11T21:51:00.000-07:00

Plucky Knitter Primo: l to r: Milk Maid, Essie, Bohemian Blue (bottom) Can Can, Audrey (top)

One of my favorite moments....skeins wound, full of potential to become something new.

Happy Knitting!

xoxo Irishgirlieknits

Happy Socktoberfest!

2011-10-09T23:58:00.000-07:00

I can't believe the first week of Soctober, I mean October, has already flown by! One of my favorite months, filled with football, pumpkin bread, pumpkin patches, fall leaves, and that chill in the air. And sock knitting. Well, usually it is filled with sock knitting for Socktoberfest, a month long celebration of knitting socks. But my needles have been filled with hats, gloves, and not socks. I plan to change that these next few weeks hopefully.

First up, I need to finish my honey badger socks. Especially since there are two Honey Badger KALs going on, one in the Socks that Rawk group and one in the Irish Girlie Knits group. Come join us!!

I did accomplish one sock related thing though. Slowly, but surely, I'm reformatting my older patterns and I'm so excited that three!!! of them have been reformatted and are ready to share. A very special thank you to Jill for helping me get these ready. She does all the pattern formatting for me, so I'm trying to keep her busy before her baby arrives!

Cotty, Winnie, and Uncle Frank have all been reformatted. Cotty even has charts now! And to celebrate Socktoberfest, from now until Oct. 15, these three patterns are on sale for $4.50 (they'll be $6 after Oct. 15).

I've also celebrated Socktoberfest with a bit of stash enhancement. A few weeks ago, Sheri at The Loopy Ewe had posted that she had just added Alisha Goes Around yarn to the store. I've been coveting this yarn since TNNA in June, where it seemed like everyone was talking about it and her colors were so vibrant and stunning! I waited a few days and finally bit the bullet. Look at this beauty!

Last week Sheri blogged about her Summer Wind knit out of Alisha Goes Around's yarn....go check out how pretty it is!! Which also has me itching to finish my third Summer Wind (it is knit with sock yarn afterall)!

Oh, and you don't think I let my skein of Alisha Goes Around arrive alone, did you? Another yarn I've been dying to try is Studio June's Super Cash Sock. Her yarns are so pretty it was hard to narrow the choice down to just one. Trust me, Violet Navy, Pansy Purple, Frosty Night, and Shallow Water were all calling my name, but I chose Burgundy Raisin.

Have any of you stocked up for Socktoberfest? Or are you waiting to make those purchases at Rhinebeck? Someday I hope to go to Rhinebeck, but this year, my patterns are going! They'll be in Miss Babs booth!!

I just realized that I haven't told you guys some exciting news! I know I've told you about my favorite not-LYS, Twisted, in Portland, right?

I'm thrilled that they will now be carrying all of my Irish Girlie Knits Designs patterns! I heart this store so much, I just can't wait til the next time I go to Portland to see my patterns there :) It makes sense, since they carry some of my absolutely favorite yarns which I have designed with such as BMFA Socks that Rock, Plucky Knitter Primo, Kollage Yarns Sock-a-licious, to name just a few! You can even shop their online store too, and if you need to purchase a pattern or two to get you to the free shipping, here is my pattern page. They even have some Plucky Knitter Primo in stock right now!

Although there wasn't any sock knitting happening this weekend, I had lots of fun with lil' guy (seriously love being Auntie IGK....he makes me so happy!!) and lil' snowboarder. Check them out...

So much fun that now I'm exhausted. I feel a bit like the doggies did earlier today.....

Night, night. Here's to a fabulous week ahead!!

Happy Socktoberfest!
xoxo Irishgirlieknits

P.S. Don't forget that Comfort Food is on sale through Oct. 11!

{this moment}

2011-10-07T15:19:00.000-07:00

I'm blessed to have such silly, fabulous friends! Thank you Thayer and Tricia!

Happy Friday!

xoxo Irishgirlieknits

Comfort Food

2011-10-06T23:08:00.000-07:00

When my Great Aunt Mimi, who was like a grandmother to me, passed away, I just couldn’t bring myself to knit. I didn’t have the energy to pick up my needles, yet I so wanted to knit.

I knew I needed to knit something comforting. Then I remembered the four gorgeous skeins of cashmere that were in my stash, in a color she loved on me. The design came immediately to me.

A big, warm, cozy cowl to embrace me all winter long, in luxurious cashmere that I know Mimi would have loved. I knit and knit and knit, through tears sometimes, but just a week later this cowl and fingerless gloves set was done. They were my comfort food.

I truly believe Mimi was watching over me while I knit this. And the timing of publishing the pattern fell almost too perfectly into place and that is due to my fabulous test knitters, Celia and Zonda, my awesome photographer, Tricia Soto, my gorgeous model, Thayer Preece, and the most incredible graphic designer, Jill Zielinski. You guys came through for me bigtime with this one and I'm so grateful.

I'm offering a special Happy October price of $4.75 until Oct. 11! Knit on Aran or heavy worsted weight yarn, this is going to knit up so fast and will be perfect for those holiday gifts.

Pattern: Comfort Food

Notes: Instructions are written for a cowl and fingerless gloves that are worked in the round. The cowl is shaped slightly at the top. Charts are provided on the last page. Aran weight or heavy worsted yarn is knit at a tight gauge to make this a very cozy cowl. For a cowl with more drape, it is recommended to go up a needle size. Additional yardage may be required.

Suggested Yarns: ~ 355-375 yards of aran weight or heavy worsted yarn for both the cowl (220 yards) and fingerless gloves (135-155 yards) such as The Plucky Knitter Aran Cashmere or MCN Aran, Blue Moon Fiber Arts Gaea, Kolláge Yarns Fantastic, Miss Babs Northumbria Aran BFL, Knitted Wit Bulkan, A Verb for Keeping Warm Toasted

Materials:

Size US 8 (5.0 mm) or size to obtain gauge either DPNs or circular needles

Cable Needle

Stitch marker

Tapestry needle

Waste yarn

Gauge: 16 sts and 24 rows = 4” over st st

Size:

one size fits all for cowl

adult women’s medium (large) for fingerless gloves

Finished measurements: 12 ½” wide at bottom of cowl and 9 ½” wide at top of cowl and 11” long for cowl

3 ½” (4”) wide, unstretched and 10 ½” (10 ¾”) long for fingerless gloves

Happy Comfort Knitting!

xoxo Irishgirlieknits

Dear Baby Francis

2011-10-01T23:49:00.000-07:00

You guys have been so patient. A year ago I blogged about these adorable baby socks. Well, good news! Today I have not only the socks, but the cutest matching hat to go with them! Introducing.....

Dear Baby Francis

Okay. Before we go further. Isn't Baby Dex beyond CUTE!!!! Seriously such a good baby and those eyes. I could just eat him up! All I want to do is start knitting more baby things so that he and his twin brother (I know!! Double the cute!!!) can keep modeling!

Miss Babs Yummy Sport, colorway Roasted Pumpkin for the 6-9 month size

The Plucky Knitter Merino Cashmere Fingering, colorways Flannel Shimmy and Pure Calm

I’ve been hooked on making wee baby socks inspired by their matching adult socks for quite some time. Here the cable pattern from the Uncle Frank socks makes for a perfect unisex baby gift!

This set includes a baby hat and socks. The socks are a perfect way to use up leftover sock yarns. Adding a trim of contrasting color gives this set that something extra!

The pattern will be on sale from now until Oct. 3 for $4, returning to $6 on Tuesday, Oct. 4!

The details.....

Dear Baby Francis Socks

Notes: Instructions are written for a cuff-down sock. Charts are provided on the last page. Size can be modified by using lighter fingering weight yarns and smaller needles, or sport weight yarn and larger needles.

Suggested Yarns: ~ 75 yards of fingering weight yarn such as The Plucky Knitter Merino Cashmere Nylon fingering, Blue Moon Fiber Arts Socks that Rock mediumweight, Kolláge Yarns Sock-a-licious, Knitted Wit Superwash Merino Fingering, Anzula Squishy

~3 yards of fingering weight yarn for contrasting trim, if desired

Materials:

Size US 2 (2.75mm) or size to obtain gauge either DPNs or circular needles

Cable Needle

Stitch markers

Tapestry needle

Gauge: 28 sts and 44 rows = 4” over st st

Size: 3-6 months

Finished measurements: 2 ¼” foot circumference, 1 ½” approximate leg length

Dear Baby Francis Hat

Suggested Yarns: ~ 80 yards of fingering weight yarn as suggested above, or 70 yards of sport weight yarn such as Miss Babs Yummy Superwash Sport, Madelinetosh Pashmina, Sunshine Yarns Sport, The Plucky Knitter Primo Sport

~5-7 yards of fingering weight yarn for contrasting trim, if desired

Materials:

Size US 6 (4.00 mm) either DPNs or Circular 16” with DPNs needed for decreases or size to obtain gauge for both fingering and sport weight yarns

Cable needle

Stitch markers

Tapesty needle

Gauge: 22-24 sts and 36 rows = 4” over st st for fingering weight yarn;
21-22 sts and 32 rows = 4” over st st for sport weight yarn;

Size: 3-6 months for fingering weight yarn; 6-9 months for sport weight yarn

Finished measurements: 5” unstretched (6 ½” streteched) width, 6 ¼” length for fingering weight yarn

5 ¼” unstretched (7” stretched) width, 7” length for sport weight yarn

Thank you again to my amazing graphic designer, Jill Zielinski, for her assistance with the pattern layout! I know I've said it before, but I could not do this job without Jill! Thank you!

A very, very special thank you to baby Dex, my good friend Nicole, and Dex's mommies, Annie and Jeannine for making this pattern come to life! I can't thank you enough!

This is Dex's modeling debut, so let's show him some love you guys!

Happy, happy baby knitting!
xoxo Irishgirlieknits

{this moment}

2011-09-30T16:21:00.000-07:00

These gorgeous flowers were delivered last weekend and still look fabulous! I took this picture yesterday :) Thank you to some very dear friends for making me smile all week. Even right now, after a 3 1/2 hour root canal, I'm smilling (well, that could be the pain meds...)!

Happy Friday everyone! New pattern coming this weekend!!

xoxo Irishgirlieknits

Got Hats?

2011-09-28T01:41:00.000-07:00

There really has been knitting going on around here, despite all of the life events of the past few weeks.

The challenge of course is translating that knitting to pattern writing, test knitting, editing, etc., when life throws a curve at you. Fortunately, you guys are awesome and hang in there with me! Keeping my fingers crossed that Dear Baby Francis will make its debut in the next week or two (I can't wait to show you the pictures!!), with the Uncle Frank hat not too far behind. Surprisingly, despite that big pile of hats, I'm not sick of knitting it yet! And I've inadvertently created a pile of gift knits, since only two of those need to be trunk show samples!

I didn't even try to write up anything last week. And as much as I was enjoying my new sock design, I wanted something a bit more mindless, comforting. I needed to just knit. And then the design jumped out at me and it was on the needles.

A cozy, slightly-oversized, cowl, inspired by my Winnie socks, in luxurious, 100% Aran cashmere from The Plucky Knitter. Talk about chicken soup for the soul. I've been saving this yarn for something special and the cowl flew off the needles. The matching fingerless gloves are almost done too. This is going to be such a fun holiday gift knit. My sister commented that too bad it wasn't in her colors. My mom, smart lady, said, I'll take it. To both I say no way! But, it was such a quick knit, I'm thinking my mom may finally get her gray fingerless gloves this year!

The only thing I need now is a name. I would love to call it Mimi, but there are a gazillion patterns named Mimi. I also thought Comfort Food, because that was what it was for me. But, the colorway is called Golightly, and part of me wants to focus on the cozy, happy, cheerful ness that that name says to me. I'm tempted to call it Golightly. There are just a few patterns with a similar name, but not quite Golightly. I will say, I can't wait to wear this when it is snowy up in Tahoe with a cup of hot cocoa. Or enjoying a big scoop of ice cream :)

Then I thought you guys may have some thoughts. Anyone?

I'll be back later this week with a few other fun knitting related updates! What do you guys have on your needles this week? Oh, and any new tv shows you've been knitting away too? I really enjoyed Prime Suspect and Revenge last week!

Happy Knitting!
xoxo Irishgirlieknits

{this moment}

2011-09-23T01:45:00.000-07:00

Happy Friday!!

This weekend is all about relaxing and knitting! Well, and football. And even pattern writing!! And my sister is ~~dragging~~ taking us to a bridal faire (eek! my first. oh. boy.). Teasing of course, sis. Well, I think I'm teasing. I have had my DVD of Bridesmaids sitting unopened all week, just waiting for the weekend to watch it (awesome, funny, fabulous movie!!)!

What are you guys up to this weekend? How's your week been? I'm slowly catching up on work, which means I may have some actual knitting content to show you this weekend!

Happy Weekend!!

xoxo Irishgirlieknits

p.s. Goodness, isn't Little Guy just too cute?! His little flip flops, his I'm so happy to be around all the airplanes smile, his Star Wars shirt that he is so proud of! So wish he lived closer....can't wait to see him in a few weeks! Auntie IGK loves you Bubby!

A Good Day.

2011-09-18T21:22:00.000-07:00

It has actually been two good days, with the farmer's market, soccer game, and a Notre Dame football victory starting off the weekend on a good note. Oh, and just about the cutest baby photo shoot yesterday at the park! Routine sure does help sometimes.

But today was a really good day. One I had been looking forward to... a whole day with Lil' Guy! That munchkin sure does make me smile :)

I'm afraid I might have used up our favorite rainy day adventure by going to the local Airplane Museum, but he was so excited to go, and it was just enough adventure for the week our family has had.

A few highlights...

Grandma joined us and I'm so glad she did! Because while she and lil' guy went outside and saw 28 airplanes, in just about 20 minutes or so....

....I got to spend 20 minutes knitting on my new sock design. I cast this on last Friday evening and it hasn't made much progress. Those 20 minutes of happy knitting just felt right again :)

The Plucky Knitter Primo fingering, colorway Sticky Toffee

After the airplane museum and a NAP, Lil Guy had fun showing Pa his new airplane.

The doggies were worn out after the fun day too! Although I'm not as sleepy as they are, I do think an early night is called for!

Happy Knitting!
xoxo Irishgirlieknits

{this moment}

2011-09-16T00:00:00.000-07:00

{this moment} A Friday ritual. A single (or this week, maybe two) photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember. If you're inspired to do the same, visit SouleMama leave a link to your 'moment' in the comments for all to find and see.

Last Saturday Lil' Snowboarder had her first soccer game ever, a very happy moment in a very sad week. I know Mimi would have enjoyed seeing those cute pink uniforms, and more importantly, the happy smile on Lil' Snowboarder's face.

Thank you all so very much for your kind thoughts and prayers. Today we will have a small family service for Mimi, and then a weekend of family fun...just as she would have wanted. Lil' Guy will be here for the weekend, just the thing I need to ensure a happy weekend :)

I love you guys. Thank you for being here this past week. I felt the hugs.

xoxo Irishgirlieknits

I love you Mimi.

2011-09-11T23:59:00.001-07:00

Such a sad post to write.

Mimi, my great-aunt, who with her two sisters, Cotty and Dotty (my grandma), raised my mom and her brother, and has been like another Grandmother to me, had a massive stroke Friday evening. My mom, brother, sister, and I were able to come up to Reno to be with her and say goodbye. I was with her all day today and shortly after the priest came to give her her last rites, and the 49ers and Giants both won (she was a big fan!), Mimi passed away peacefully while I was by her side.

I know she is in a better place and with her sisters and brother. I miss her already. Thank you all for the kind thoughts and prayers this weekend. I so appreciate you guys being there for me and my family.

My heart is broken.

I love you Mimi.
xoxo Carrie

Dancette

2011-09-08T23:06:00.000-07:00

Guess what is available for download via Ravelry? Dancette!

I know many of you have been asking when the pattern only would be available, either because you couldn't make it to Sock Summit or because your stash was already bursting with sock yarn you couldn't justify indulging in the awesome kits from The Plucky Knitter! So here it is!

Dancette

Shown in The Plucky Knitter Primo MCN 75/20/5, colorways Roasted Pumpkin and Milk Maid, one skein of each; Modeled by Thayer Preece, Photo credit: Tricia Soto

I'm pretty crazy about the lovely yarns by Sarah Dimond, The Plucky Knitter. Sarah is mad about all things chevron. Together, I think we are both head over heels for this shawl, Dancette. In architecture, dancette is an ornamental molding that features a zigzag pattern. Here, the zigzag edging gives this shawl that extra something!

As much as I love this version, I really, really love this version by the Knotty Mommy. This is one of those knits where you can really play with color! I can't wait to see more of these knit up.

If you are a LYS interested in carrying this pattern in your store, Dancette, along with many of my other patterns, is now available for wholesale through Deep South Fibers.

Happy Almost Friday!!
xoxo Irishgirlieknits

The List of Stuff I've Been Meaning to Tell You

2011-09-07T23:41:00.000-07:00

I've been writing this post to you guys for at least the past few days. Well, writing may be a stretch. Composing in my head may be a better way to put it. A running list of oh, I have to remember to blog that too. And before the list gets any longer, here you go!

1. Contest winners!!! The big winner of an IrishgirlieKnits Tote bag and yarn and goodies is Sue! I've emailed you for your address info. And since so many of you shared what you were looking forward to, and I so enjoyed hearing about it, I thought I'd pick a few more winners to pick a free pattern from my Ravelry Pattern Store. Any pattern, including my newly released Dancette and Capitola patterns! Those winners are:

Liette
Katbetty on Rav
DianeV on Rav

Just PM me on Ravelry with the pattern you would like and I'll send it over! Congrats!

2. I did some frogging this past weekend!

A few projects that were just lingering for way too long! It felt good to free up some yarn!! And needles. And project bags :) Come on guys, you know you probably have something that has been on the needles for way too long. Frog something. Go do it now before you lose your nerve!!

3. I finished reading The Help and absolutely loved it! I can't wait to see the movie.

4. I promptly downloaded Rachel Herron's new book, A Life in Stitches. I can't wait to see the movie (well, hey, you never know, right!)! I love it already and I'm only a few stories in.

5. I cast on for a new sock. One of my favorite knitting things in the world, that I can't imagine ever tiring of, is starting a new sock!

Look at that pretty pretty One-Hit-Wonder skein of The Plucky Knitter's. Of course, there hasn't really been much knitting progress beyond casting that on. See #6.

6. In the last week, I've had 4 doctors appointments, and another tomorrow! Tomorrow is a follow-up on the knee problems from last month, but the other four have been about some forehead pain that is seriously cramping my style! I'm over the bump on the side of my face. Ugh. This is the second time this has happened, so that is making my doctors and me a bit nervous, but the recommended treatment right now is to ice it?! Ok, enough whining about a pain that feels like a neverending headache. Thank you all for the well wishes and good thoughts over on Twitter today. I do appreciate it!

7. I had the pain even before the let's-not-talk-about-it Notre Dame loss last weekend. What a buzz kill to the start of college football season! But, Go Irish Beat Michigan!!! Saturday night game is going to be awesome!

8. I discovered a new type of apple last weekend at the farmer's market. Pink Pearl. LOVE! I'll be getting more this weekend :)

Did I tell you I just love fall!!!???!!!

9. Speaking of fall, our IGK Fall KAL is here! Come join us as we knit either the Honey Badger Socks or Love Letters sock. As always, the selected pattern will be on sale for a limited time for the KAL, so Love Letters will be 20% off between now and Sunday, Sept. 11 when you use the coupon code: bringonfall

10. Those glorious stitches I cast on at Knit Nite last night. Frogged. haha. Oh, knit nite fun!

Okay, must to bed! Hope you guys are having a great week!!
Happy Knitting!
xoxo Irishgirlieknits

Knit Nite

2011-09-06T23:57:00.000-07:00

After a few weeks of absences, I made it to knit nite tonight. Can't you tell? Two hours later and this is all the knitting. But my cup runneth over with all the laughter, love and support of my knitting friends! So worth it!

Back tomorrow with a contest winner, the new IGK KAL, and more! Hope you all had a great weekend!

Happy knitting!
xoxo irishgirlieknits

{this moment}

2011-09-02T12:00:00.000-07:00

Happy Friday!

xoxo Irishgirlieknits

Capitola

2011-09-01T23:52:00.000-07:00

Seems fitting that as summer winds down, I'm able to release my Capitola sock pattern for you. They are such a quick knit, you could start them now and have them ready to wear in a week or two when fall is here! A little bit of summer for your feet.

These socks were originally knit for a kit for Sunshine Yarns. Of course, I think it was Dani's plan to just ensure my love for her yarns, because I think since knitting these I've enhanced my stash with a few more skeins of Dani's gorgeous yarns!

Capitola

Shown in Sunshine Yarns Luxury Sport, colorway Desert Cactus

I LOVED knitting with Dani's yarns. The Luxury Sport was, well, luxury. And talk about a quick knit! Her colors are just gorgeous!

This pattern reminds me a lot of all the things I love about my Cotty Socks. Its written for both sportweight and fingering weight yarns, looks great in both semi-solids and variegated yarns, and features an easy to memorize pattern.

Shown in Sunshine Yarns Classic Sock, colorway Caramel Swirl

Once again, Jill did an awesome job with the pattern layout.

Summer knitting at the coast. Feet up on the balcony, listening to the ocean waves crashing against the cliffs below. Sun shining down. Just imagine yourself in Capitola, the charming beach village in Santa Cruz County, CA where these socks were knit. The easy to memorize pattern on these socks, paired with the gorgeous Sunshine yarns, make them the perfect summer project!

More info is listed here. I think I may need to get a start on holiday knitting and cast on another pair of these! Perfect chance to take advantage of the IGK back-to-school sale too! From now until Sept. 5, all of my individual patterns sold through my Ravelry store, including Capitola, are 25% off when you enter the couupon code: backtoschool .

Happy happy weekend!!
xoxo Irishgirlieknits

Got Crepes?

2011-08-31T23:50:00.000-07:00

When a cute lil' 8-year-old proudly says she'd like to cook tonight from the cookbook she checked out of her school library, how can you say no? The requirement was that as long as we had the ingredients at home, we could do it.

So crepes it was. Someone fell in love with crepes at her summer camp this year!

She was so proud! She read all the directions and did each step herself (well, I helped a bit with the egg cracking).

Quite a yummy dessert! We were pretty creative with the fillings too. Pa loved the peanut butter and jelly one. Snowboarder went with peanut butter and bananas, and lil' snowboarder chose ice cream and sprinkle-filled. Yeap. On a school night. Have to reinforce the little cook, right?

In other news, I just have to say how much I'm enjoying reading all of your comments on the contest post (not too late to enter!). Looks like everyone has some great things to look forward to! Me...it is almost Friday and a 3-day weekend!!! And my sister says thank you so much for the engagement wishes!! She has been quite funny the past week or two....she goes back and forth between glowy happy and overwhelmed I can't think about planning a wedding! So any wedding planning on a budget blogs that you guys love...please let us know!

Happy happy!!
xoxo Irishgirlieknits

Time for some FUN!

2011-08-28T23:28:00.000-07:00

Whoa. So that relaxed, recharged feeling I talked about last week. Well, thank goodness I felt that way at the start of the week because this was a crazy, hectic week. Pretty eventful here. Let's just say that last Sunday, I had knit one of the baby socks, and that second sock there, well that was all of the knitting that happened since until late last night.

Just pitiful, right? And that cute Uncle Frank hat...pattern should be easy peasy to write-up, but that hasn't happened either.

To catch you guys up, here are a few of the highlights from the week.....

1. First, happy happy news for my sister!!! She got engaged last Sunday!!

Look at these two silly kids! This is one of my fave pictures of them from last Christmas.

2. School started this week....which means the problems, reports, school meetings, and such started rolling in at work. I always know it is the first week of school when my email practically doubles overnight. Fun fun.

3. My mom had a bit of a scare this week with an emergency appendectomy surgery on Tuesday, which led to 3 days in the hospital. She's starting to feel better now that she is home from the hospital.

4. My sister's fiancee graduated from the police academy, which means party time!! And brownies of course!

And although there has been little knitting, hopes for a sweater seemed a bit closer when these gorgeous skeins arrived this week!

Hoping to turn them into a Sprossling!

Other fun mail included the Knitpicks Catalog which featured my Merrily Socks! So cool to see them featured :)

Another cool designing thing....my designer page on Deep South Fibers is looking awesome! I am so excited that they are distributing my designs to Local Yarn Stores!!

So now it is Sunday night and I'm glad to put last week to bed. Here's to a fresh week ahead....September, one of my favorite times of year, is coming right up! And a 3-day weekend! It is going to be a good week.

Just to be sure though, let's have a contest AND a sale!! Time for some FUN!!

Sale details.....I've always loved this time of year...back to school shopping (even though I'm a grown-up!), football season, autumn coming.... so what better way to celebrate than to give you guys a deal on that back-to-school knitting!! Receive 25% off of any of my patterns available through my ravelry store between now and Monday, Sept. 5 when you enter the coupon code: backtoschool

Now for the contest fun....just leave a comment telling me what you are looking forward to, whether it be a new project, new book, end of summer vacation plans, anything....., on this post and one lucky winner will win a fabulous IGK tote bag filled with yarn, patterns, and goodies!!! Leave your comment by Friday, Sept. 2 by 12pm PST.

I know I'm definitely looking forward to a week with a little less excitement, Notre Dame football next Saturday, knitting, and watching The Pioneer Woman's new Food Network show that I recorded yesterday! Can't wait to read what you guys are looking forward to!

Happy Knitting!!
xoxo Irishgirlieknits

Recharged. Relaxed. Refreshed.

2011-08-21T23:18:00.000-07:00

I wish sometimes you could bottle up a feeling and save it for a rainy day. In my case, I would bottle up this past weekend.

Good friends, a perfect view, yummy food and drinks, movies, and knitting. What more could a girl ask for?

I think I've finally got the Uncle Frank hat worked out! That is after frogging a good four inches on Friday evening. Fortunately I had already had some sangria, so it made the frogging easier to deal with.

Now I just need to write up the pattern and get it out to test knitters!

In the time it took me to knit, frog, and reknit the hat, SnBLeslie practically had her Just Enough Ruffles in BMFA LSS done! So pretty!

And the wee baby frank socks are just about done!

I didn't get to start my next project, but these gorgeous skeins of Plucky Primo Worsted are ready to be cast on. Hopefully they captured a bit of the fabulous weekend too and will remind me of this refreshed feeling I feel tonight.

So, are you refreshed on this Sunday evening or early Monday morning? How was your weekend?
Happy New Week ahead!
xoxo Irishgirlieknits

{this moment}

2011-08-19T15:57:00.001-07:00

My view for the weekend. Just add knitting and good friends!

Happy Friday!
Xoxo irishgirlieknits

On the needles tonight

2011-08-16T23:58:00.001-07:00

Another hat in Plucky Knitter Primo, with a lucky clover stitch marker from Knitifacts. And a good movie to knit to.

Night night.

Happy Knitting!
Xoxo irishgirlieknits

Happy Birthday!

2011-08-15T12:05:00.000-07:00

Lil' Snowboarder turns 8 today!! She had a blast at her birthday party this past weekend!! Happy happy birthday princess!!

Happy Birthday!

xoxo Irishgirlieknits

Sunday, Already?

2011-08-14T20:00:00.000-07:00

Seriously. How does the weekend just fly by so quickly?

I am almost, almost recovered from Sock Summit and A Verb for Keeping Warm fun, but I still feel like I'm trying to play a bit of catch-up from the month or two of non-stop knitting that was happening before Sock Summit. For example, my room is a complete disaster and when I tried to clean it a bit today (well, really I was looking for some needles, so figured I'd put some stuff away in an attempt to find them), I was a bit overwhelmed by how messy the knitting area had become. Needles everywhere. Yarn everywhere. Swatches everywhere. Oh boy.

Gradually I'm trying to find room for all those Sock Summit goodies. Here's a few I haven't shown you.

The Signature Needles! I actually got two pairs because one was part of the teacher swag bag! We received a coupon to pick out any set of needles we wanted! Thank you Signature Needles. I love the few pairs of Signatures that I have, but they are with the older cable. I'll be interested to see how I like the new cable.

I also bought a skein of Hazel Knits Entice, a new to me yarn purchase. I love Hazel Knits, but haven't tried this yarn yet! I was proud that I was able to resist all of her other lovely colors. I also just had to have Miss Babs new colorway Jane Austen. Isn't it lovely in those pinks and soft browns....love!! That gorgeous blue, colorway Shark Island, is a mini-skein of Creating from A Verb for Keeping Warm. I actually purchased a few more pretty yarns from Verb last weekend. I can't wait to knit them up! And lastly, that gorgeous brown is Anzula Yarns Cricket.

I wish I could describe just how soft and squishy this gorgeous yarn is! I first discovered Anzula's yarns when Snowboarder brought me two skeins of Squishy back from Purl Soho last year. And I finally cast on with one of those skeins for another Summer Wind. Here, a progress picture for you:

I knit quite a bit on this last weekend, especially Saturday evening, hanging out with Stephen, Debbi, and Anne. Such a lovely evening with friends :) Of course, I haven't touched it all week.

But there has been some knitting. I'm on a bit of a hat/Plucky/Primo/no deadline knittting kick lately! More details to come on these soon, but I think I'm finally almost ready to have Uncle Frank's Hat and Dear Baby Francis' hat and baby socks set test knit soon! Just took a year or so??!?!! Then I need to find a cute baby for the photo shoot?!

I'll warn you now....there will be lots of Plucky on my needles for the next month or two!

Oh, and exciting news to share with you guys! My pattern line is now going to be distributed for wholesale through Deep South Fibers! Check out their new products! Hopefully this will make it a bit easier for you to find my patterns in your local yarn store!!

I am so excited to be included with the many other amazing designers that they represent! Be sure to let your favorite LYS know you'd like to see IGK patterns there :)

So, how was your weekend? Can you believe summer is almost over? What do you have planned for these last few weeks? Or are you ready for fall?

Although I don't want summer to be over....just 19 days left until Notre Dame's championship season begins!! Hey, a girl can dream :)

Happy Knitting!
xoxo Irishgirlieknits

Got Plucky?

2011-08-11T22:37:00.000-07:00

I certainly have plenty of The Plucky Knitter's fabulous yarns, but do you? Honestly, as my last post suggested, I don't quite have enough. But I did remedy that and ordered enough Plucky Primo for a sweater!!!!

But really, I ask about how much Plucky you have because she is having two updates this weekend AND you can finally get your hands on a Dancette Kit!

I think this pattern works so well because of the colors Sarah paired together and I can't wait to see what colors she pairs up for the kits.

I loved the pairing she did for Daphne, who did a fabulous job on a practically no-time-to-actually-knit deadline with the sample knit for Sock Summit! Thank you Daphne!!

I wish I had taken a better picture of it in the Sock Summit booth, but trust me, gorgeous! And TheKnottyMommy already finished her Dancette that she bought at Sock Summit. Go check it out...wow!! Love the colors!

So the details on the updates from Sarah...

Please note: Friday, August 12th – the update will be a sneak-up. Meaning I will be listing things through the day (starting approximately 7:00 a.m. Eastern) and will keep you posted on beginning, end and breaks in-between on Facebook/Twitter and Ravelry.

The update on Sunday, August 14th will be at 9:00 p.m. Eastern.

And if you can't make the updates this weekend, Sarah promises to have a few more updates with Dancette this month!

Happy Plucky Shopping!
xoxo Irishgirlieknits

Did you know?

2011-08-07T15:57:00.000-07:00

Did you know that when I said I would catch up this weekend, I hadn't yet heard that I was able to move off the waitlist for Anne Hanson's Sweater Fitness class at A Verb for Keeping Warm on Saturday? More on that, but essentially, I didn't catch up. Oops. I'm going to attempt to catch up a bit with this post. Here goes...

Did you know that there were sheepies at Sock Summit?

And super-fast knitters? The wonderful Deb Barnhill won (she's on the right next to Stephanie).

And lots of friends that I wish I had had more time to hang out with. Note, these pictures were all taken after the market closed on Sunday. How we all survived I just don't know?

Did you know that inside this voodoo donut guy is raspberry jelly....hehehhe?

Did you know about these two, new-to-me, awesome indie dyers?

Little Red Bicycle Penny Farthing Sock, in colorway Ethereal. Isn't it just gorgeous? I had wanted to make sure to stop by this lovely booth because Didi, the super nice dyer behind Little Red Bicycle, lives just about 30 minutes away from me. Uh-oh!

This is a gorgeous skein of Alpha B Yarn Luxe B. It is one of the yarns that Debbi knit her gorgeous new pattern Lucy with.

Did you know that Anne Hanson and Cookie A. are pretty awesome? I know, I know. You knew. I knew too, but it was so nice to hear them speak about their design process on Friday evening. Plus I was able to catch up a bit more with Katharine, another fabulous teacher from Sock Summit.

Did you know that I have never knit an adult sweater that is not knit from the top-down in one piece? But after Anne's fabulous class and looking through her gorgeous sample knits...

Well...

I think I'm ready to take the plunge!! Sprossling here I come! Now I just need to find some Plucky Primo for it! Yeah, so should have figured this out before Sock Summit as I don't have a sweaters worth of Primo in my stash! But I think I can change that!

I hope you all have had an awesome weekend! I know I have!!

Happy Knitting!
xoxo Irishgirlieknits

Sweater Fitness!

2011-08-06T10:40:00.001-07:00

So excited to start class with Anne Hanson at A Verb for Keeping Warm!!

Sweater fitness here I come!

Xoxo Irishgirlieknits