Discerning Moments

As I became adult, what begins to distinguish me from childhood is the ability to know how much is too much and what is not enough.

Naturally, most kids don’t know limits.

While too much candy can make your stomach hurt, I can’t imagine daily life without the choice to fill the mind with words and images, ideas and images that are healthy and soothing to the soul.

These things can challenge thinking in a positive way.

Perhaps, challenge myself to read and gather energy from words that are more specific to my life.  Many choices…next to knitting, sewing, beading, playing with mixed media, hiking, cooking, photographing, etc. etc.

Featured Knits today are inspired by the Sellwood Bridge.  Twisted ribbing on the neck and leg/arm-warmer set mimics the meandering nature of the Willamette River, which flows under the beautiful and historic Sellwood Bridge.  The pattern was designed by Shannon Squire especially to participants of 2013 Rose City Yarn Crawl in Portland, Oregon, a few months ago.   One set was in Blue Moon Fiber Arts Victoria and the other in Socks That Rock MediumWeight–in ka-POW!, pa-TINA colorway.   I loved knitting ‘em.  The bias repeats in between the stockinette fabric are just my level of enjoyment:  engaging, easy to read/memorize, no tricky bits.  Both the pattern and yarn are available at Twisted.  However, you will have to call the shop for BMF yarn–they aren’t offered online.

There’s been no big splashy stuff here lately and I can’t seem to finish anything.  But, I’m finding great delight in the small stuff.  Like this sewing project…more on that tomorrow.  I could stare at ‘em all day.

What brings you real joy?   Do that…Be that…Share that…Spend more time with that and get more joy! ♥

Happy crafting and keep those creative juices running!

(still doesn’t do texting, MySpace, Twitter, StumbleUpon, DiggIt…but caved into Facebook!)

Steer my Thoughts

Ponder these wise words:

“A man is what he thinks about all day long.” -Ralph Waldo Emerson

“For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he. “. Proverbs 23:7

“A man is literally what he thinks, his character being the complete sum of all his thoughts.” James Allen, from As a Man Thinketh

Thoughts affect how I feel emotionally, how I act, who I am today, and who I will become.

Knowing this, it is my responsibility to steer my thoughts away from what I see as wrong with folks and the world…

instead, focus on the good in people, the beauty of life, and keep a positive attitude.

Today, I work at being honest about my feeling and base my relationships on respect and integrity.

My inspiration for choosing Cashvero DK (027 Royal Plum) for today’s featured sweater was not only the luscious feel, but, it’s the deep connection I have towards the mystical royal purple tourmaline, aka receptive stone–soothing, calming, inward, and magnetic, promoting meditation, spirituality, wisdom, compassion, and mysticism. It creates peace and promotes communication between the conscious and unconscious minds, allowing psychic awareness to blossom.

Emily, designed by Vera Sanon, is knit from top down and features set-in sleeves that are knit simultaneously with the upper body–and absolutely no short-rows.  The original neckline and the bottom of the sweater is adorned with a simple to knit slip-stitch patterns, but, looks rather stunning!  My modified version has 1) Estonian braid and slip-stitch pattern on sleeve cuffs in lieu of ribbing to match the rest of pattern feature; 2) Estonian braid before folded hems; and  3) folded hems in fingering-weight yarn for neckline, body and sleeve cuffs.  The Swarovski Crystal buttons from my stash have finally found her mate.  Totally ecstatic–it’s how I feel today.    How’s your day?

Happy crafting and keep those creative juices running!

(still doesn’t do texting, MySpace, Twitter, StumbleUpon, DiggIt…but caved into Facebook!)

This Awesome Day

Be myself.

Be grateful for this AWESOME day.

 And go with the flow of life…

It is like a camera.   Just focus on what’s important and capture the good times, develop from the negatives, and if things don’t work out, just take another shot.

The Sartoria Cowl designed by Star Athena–in Blue Moon Fiber Arts’ de-Vine (jabberwocky)–makes the ideal, last-minute gift knit.   Who could have thought de-Vine is 100% wool!  It behaves somewhat like a synthetic ribbon, but, each single thread reveals after wash.  It feels wonderful, toasty warm, and squishy.  Personally, I would shorten the length by 2” to 3”.  Double the length in order to wrap it twice is out of the question as it would be very weighty for my personal liking.  All-in-all, it’s a fabulous design pairing with super duper dyed yarn.  It served me well during the photo shoot on the chilly day in February.

I find the herringbone stitch is hard to knit at times, so I use a crochet hook when needed.

The cowl, originally released as a mystery knit-along, is now available to the general public at the shop as a complete pattern.  Be sure to test drive the sample if and/or when you are in the Portland, Oregon area.  By the way, you may purchase the sample cowl (included five beautiful buttons) for $121.00–in person or online.

Happy weekend, my friend!  Go for whatever makes you happy!  ♥

Happy crafting and keep those creative juices running!

(still doesn’t do texting, MySpace, Twitter, StumbleUpon, DiggIt…but caved into Facebook!)

This is Life!

The eye sees only what the mind is prepared to comprehend.

COOL Park Day at Hillside Park, Bend, Oregon
April 24, 2013

Climb the mountain, follow my path, listen to my drumbeat.

Mr. Thunder Bad Boyz Pageant, Fundraiser for local Sparrow Club
at Summer High School, Bend, Oregon

The struggles I face on my way up will look so small when I am standing on the summit and looking back at where I have been.

Camping at Paulina Lake, Oregon with COOL friends
on September 29, 2012no

Today I want to share a poem Charlie Chaplin wrote for the occasion of his 70th birthday so we may meditate upon it:

When I started loving myself
I understood that I’m always and at any given opportunity
in the right place at the right time.
And I understood that all that happens is right –
from then on I could be calm.
Today I know: It’s called TRUST.

When I started to love myself I understood how much it can offend somebody
When I tried to force my desires on this person,
even though I knew the time is not right and the person was not ready for it,
and even though this person was me.
Today I know: It’s called LETTING GO

When I started loving myself
I could recognize that emotional pain and grief
are just warnings for me to not live against my own truth.
Today I know: It’s called AUTHENTICALLY BEING.

When I started loving myself
I stopped longing for another life
and could see that everything around me was a request to grow.
Today I know: It’s called MATURITY.

When I started loving myself
I stopped depriving myself of my free time
and stopped sketching further magnificent projects for the future.
Today I only do what’s fun and joy for me,
what I love and what makes my heart laugh,
in my own way and in my tempo.
Today I know: it’s called HONESTY.

When I started loving myself
I escaped from all what wasn’t healthy for me,
from dishes, people, things, situations
and from everything pulling me down and away from myself.
In the beginning I called it the “healthy egoism”,
but today I know: it’s called SELF-LOVE.

When I started loving myself
I stopped wanting to be always right
thus I’ve been less wrong.
Today I’ve recognized: it’s called HUMBLENESS.

When I started loving myself
I refused to live further in the past
and worry about my future.
Now I live only at this moment where EVERYTHING takes place,
like this I live every day and I call it CONSCIOUSNESS.

When I started loving myself
I recognized, that my thinking
can make me miserable and sick.
When I requested for my heart forces,
my mind got an important partner.
Today I call this connection HEART WISDOM.

We do not need to fear further discussions,
conflicts and problems with ourselves and others
since even stars sometimes bang on each other
and create new worlds.
Today I know: THIS IS LIFE!

Noah and his competitor, end of their 800m
to wrap up 2013 Swim MFcaeet Kick-off in Bend, Oregon
at Juniper Swim & Fitness Center, May 6, 2013

Luckily, I can start applying some of its utterly truth before my 70th anniversary by simply beginning to love the core of it, the Self.  What I love, I know…that love will bring the peace of integration that delivers the consensus within.   A woman needs just four things:  a black dress, a black sweater, a pair of black mittens, and, on her arm, a man she loves.

Casino Royale in black Premier Serenity Sock Yarn is another elegant lace design by Hungarian Eszter Sarkadi Nagy, aka wondrlanding.

The cuffs are the best part of the fun to knit up.  Very stylish and practical.  I would like a pair in every color of the color wheel for my wardrobe.  How about you?  What is/are your closet must-have(s)?

Happy crafting and keep those creative juices running!

(still doesn’t do texting, MySpace, Twitter, StumbleUpon, DiggIt…but caved into Facebook!)

Passion + Efforts is a Yin + Yang

Every minute spent worrying about the way things were is a moment stolen from creating “the way things can be.”

Swim Meet at Juniper Swim & Fitness Center
Bend, OR, on May 4, 2013

I spent a significant amount of my adult life working hard and becoming proficient in things I thought I loved doing ‘cuz society told me I needed to do these things to become successful.  I was on a very secure road, but, how happy was I?   Eventually, I threw all that away to take some time to look at myself in the mirror and spent quality time with my children.  That was back in 2004.

Some  folks still questioned me…whether or not I had made the right decision.  They doubt my quality of life has indeed improved.

I may not live in a big house or drive fancy automobiles I once did.  But, I can tell you this.  I am finding my own way.  When I love what I do, I’ll never work a day in my life.

Every day, I take an honest look at myself and sift through the things I enjoy, or may enjoy, and narrow ‘em down.

I enjoy what I’m doing so I work harder at task.

When I work hard at something I care about, I get better at it.

When I’m better at something that encompasses my joy and effort, good things happen.

I am having this talk with my 17-year-old teen.  The idea that she’s supposed to know exactly what she’s going to do with her life when she hits 18 is ludicrous.  There’s nothing wrong with bouncing around the things she loves until she finds one that becomes a viable career option for her.  You’re the future of this world.  Take time to explore and light up a whole roomful of possibilities.

Check out Larry Smith’s 14-minute funny and insightful TED talk “Why you will fail to have a great career”…what do you think of it?  

No one can argue the amount of effort you put into something determines what you get out of it.  But, I think the problem is that most people don’t really know what they are passionate about in the first place.  Most people aren’t that introspective.  At 17, I wasn’t for sure.  Look.  If you have actually followed your passion from day one.  You are passionate about the competition.  I have the utmost respect for you and your accomplishments

For my kids…Everyone has something to give. Find your life purpose. Flawlessly, your passion will be exposed.  Don’t be afraid…Be yourself.  Follow your bliss.  Be all that you are, kids! Shine bright.

The Serriform scarf and shawlette shown above–in MadelineTosh Light Merino (Burnished)–is a super fun and satisfying knit.   Shannon Squire originally designed it as the February 2013 pattern for the Twisted Mad About Tosh Club.  The pattern (and the scrumptious MadelineTosh yarn) is now available to the general public at the shop.   Be sure to test drive the sample if and/or when you are in the Portland, Oregon area.

Happy crafting and keep those creative juices running!

(still doesn’t do texting, MySpace, Twitter, StumbleUpon, DiggIt…but caved into Facebook!)

37 Ways

To Be A Total Badass.

Dave Becker, conductor of the Oregon Ambassador’s Band,
Director Emeritus at Lewis & Clark College and State Band Contest Co-Chairperson

Go read all about this well written,terrific article.   I love Chris McCombs’ exceptions, awesome pictures and quotes.

Lily the Elephant, a beautiful motifs…fabulous quick knit/gift
in Brown Sheep Lanaloft Sport (Scottish Hillside and Celery)

Today, I focus on making as many mistakes as possible.

Lily the Elephant Baby Legwarmers
in Brown Sheep Nature Spun Fingering (Blueberry colorway)

Be amazing at making mistakes, make more mistakes in the next year or two than I’ve made in my entire life.

Boy, do I learn when I make mistakes.  Amen!

I love trying new things,

making mistakes along the discovery journey,

to learn my weakness and strength,

and to grow a better, well being. I really do.

Deep Night in Kaleidoscope was one of my favorite
own-design crochet hat made in December 2010

Now that you have skimmed through Chris’ badass post…which of the 37 ways spoke to you most?

Rose & Lily–the Elephant hat and leggings designed by Lenka Ilcisin & Emily Williams as February pattern for Twisted’s Itty Bitty Baby Knits Club–is now available to the general public.  Test drive these samples at the shop if and/or when you are in the Portland, Oregon area.  Here is an excerpt about the design by the designers:

“New kid at the Portland Zoo this winter – Lily the tiny baby elephant!  Her mom, Rose-Tu, couldn’t be prouder as she shows off her new baby to the adoring onlookers. Share in Rose and Lily’s cuteness with this mommy (or daddy) and me hat set, with plenty of sizes to fit kids and adults of all ages and sizes. Add on legwarmers for the kidlets and you’ve got a cozy matching set for the whole family.”

Happy crafting and keep those creative juices running!

(still doesn’t do texting, MySpace, Twitter, StumbleUpon, DiggIt…but caved into Facebook!)

Stop Thinking Too Much

It’s alright not to know the answers.

They will come to me when I least expect it.

It may be that when I no longer know what to do, I have come to my real work.

And when I no longer know which way to go, I have begun my real journey.

It’s the dawn of a new day, the beginning of a new me.

The dreams of my heart are sprouting into view.

Don’t give up. Don’t let go. My miracle is at hand.

Today is a magical day.

I choose to make it so.  All is well in my world.

The blue neck warmer is Stratosphere Cowl, designed by Kat Buckspan.  It took only 91 grams of a skein of KnittedWit Cashy Wool (in Winter’s Night colorway)–with 26 grams left unused.   The superwash Cashy Wool is so soft, yummy, and delightful next to skin!

The pattern and yarn are available here.  Stratosphere is a popular knitted project among Twisted’s customers.  If you are in the area, stop by and test drive the shop sample.

We had a fabulous visit to Portland yesterday, mainly to support my 17-year-old who placed 10th–out of 31 flutists–at this year’s 2013 OSAA Oregon Solo State Music Championship.  Hope you enjoy the instant replay.

This may be the last recording of her playing flute in public.  One more solo audition in June–in front of a panel of judges in private session, no parent or other audience allowed–she will then retire from flute and french horn competitions/public performances altogether.  No worry…music is in her blood. She has been composing, singing, playing an acoustic instrument.   Who knows.  Maybe she will let me videotape and share one of her busking adventures this summer.  Talking about summer…what’s your plan for the hot days ahead?

Happy crafting and keep those creative juices running!

(still doesn’t do texting, MySpace, Twitter, StumbleUpon, DiggIt…but caved into Facebook!)

Honoring my Intuition

…I accept my path.

I am healing the body, mind, and spirit.

Start where I am.

Use what I have.

Do what I can.

Sometimes, I’ve got to be able to listen to myself and be okay with no one else understanding.  Oh yeah!

Linde pullover –featuring large heart-shape leaves with pronounced stem and vein–is a very original pattern with unusual construction.  You won’t see anything else like this.  It is worked top down, in the round with a circular yoke.  The increases are invisibly worked in the leaves.  The body is worked in garter stitch.

At the waist, 2 stems emerge that form the I-cord buttonholes and the stem of the pocket leaves.

The lined pocket feature is my favorite part of this design.  I want to showcase it so much that I commissioned special fused glass buttons by my dear friend’s glass-artist sister. The tint of frosty pink was just a perfect match!  I am a happy camper. Check out Cheryl‘s high-quality offerings here.  (I still need to take an update photo with these beautiful buttons on.)

The aran-weight cashmere blend yarn was harder to work with.  However, it provides a nice, deliciously squishy, dense fabric with a little retro touch.  I love my layering top.    Once again, test-knitting for Anne Lernout (aka atelier alfa) is thrilling and satisfying.

Do you have a favorite knitwear designer?  What do you look for in a design/pattern? 

Happy crafting and keep those creative juices running!

(still doesn’t do texting, MySpace, Twitter, StumbleUpon, DiggIt…but caved into Facebook!)

Quiet the Mind

and the soul will speak.

Become aware of the importance of positive feelings and how they can improve my life.

I refuse to be involved with negative thoughts and feelings.

Upon waking up in the morning, i choose to smile and say to myself silently or audibly: “I am gonna have a wonderful day today. It is going to be a happy and successful day. I am going to stay patient and positive in every situation.”

During the day, I visualize for a few moments some life’s happy recollections and situations, a place I enjoyed visiting or being with genuine folks I adore.

When things make me angry, I wait a few seconds before reacting.

When feeling some despair, anger, unhappiness, or frustration, I try not to succumb to these feelings and let them grow.  Visualize something happy, read something that makes me happy, repeat a positive affirmation, or just try to create some happy feeling inside me.  This might not be easy as the negative feeling might be too strong; yet, I do my best…no matter how many times I might fail evoking a positive feeling.  If I persist, I will be able to change my attitude and feelings.

I may not always control the situations in my life, but, I can control and change my attitude and reactions.  Negative attitude and anger will bring negative conditions.  Positive attitude and positive feelings will improve the situation.  You bet they will.

These days, I do try to show some positive feelings toward people that I don’t like.  Granted.  I don’t need to be their friend, but I can stop being negative and allow some feelings of warmth and understanding.  Strangely, I have been surprised at their attitude and reaction toward me.

I read inspiring quotes early in the morning and repeat affirmations throughout the day such as “I am feeling happy and confident.”  ”It is so pleasant to enjoy positive feelings.”  ”I am getting happier and more positive every day.”

Keep away from negative people is the key for me.  If  I must be with them,  I don’t let their state of mind affect me. Try to be somewhat detached toward them. There is no place for their negativity if I keep filling my mind with positive feelings and thoughts.

When I am feeling down, knitting, spinning, and listening to music is great pick-me-up.

Let myself smile more often, even in difficult situations.  The act of smiling tends to clear the mind of worries, even if temporarily, and wins me the sympathy and support of folks around me.

Watching comedies, reading, and watching happy news work magics too.

Find time for meditation. Among its benefits is the ability to filter the feelings and thoughts that enter my mind. It helps me avoid negative feelings and let in positive ones.

After getting into bed at night, I tell myself silently or audibly: “I am going to have a wonderful day tomorrow. It is going to be a happy and successful day. I am going to stay patient and positive in every situation.”

Now that I kinda know how to create positive feelings, I can get creative and find more ideas to create positive feelings in my life.  How do you create positive feelings?

No Fear Shakespeare.  Nymphadora is another close-fitting sweater blouse, designed by Kessanlin, one of a handful designers I test-knit for with frequency.   The gentle gathers, an empire waist, and slightly bell-shaped sleeves are flattering enough for this plump figure.

I love the fun, clever construction.

The yarn isn’t perfect (relating to gauge) but it’s best I managed to meet deadline in a rush, a week before Christmas.  Most disappointing is the shortage of yarn!  Yep, another pet peeve I encountered: Less weight/yardage than labeled. 9 hanks/50g each, I should have 450 grams in all. Yet, I started out 384 grams with 10 grams left in the last hank. This is the worst amount of shortage I’ve ever had–66 grams–a whole hank plus shortage!!!!

I have a couple more of Louise Hardings’ yarn in my stash; after that, I vow never to buy yarn from this company again!  But, then, I love that yarn…maybe I should bring the scale with me and weigh each one of ‘em before buying.  How about that?

Happy crafting and keep those creative juices running!

(still doesn’t do texting, MySpace, Twitter, StumbleUpon, DiggIt…but caved into Facebook!)

Above Life’s Turmoil

In the storm, I find peace.

In the midst of chaos, I  find calm.

Amid the noise, I find some quiet.

In times of worry, I am assured and given comfort…

For I am loved, blessed, and so very grateful, always.

Seamless Poema in The Fibre Company Arcadia (Wild Onion) is knit from the top down, featuring a pretty, elegant Aran lace pattern on the sleeves.  It looks like lace…cables…but the truth be told, it’s only a simple combination of YO, knit, purl, K2tog & SSK stitches.   Instructions are included for ¾ length and full-length sleeves.

Because of its top-down construction, the body is easily adjusted to various body types.   Besides adding one extra waist decrease, another 2” for torso, waist increase at every 10th row plus one extra increase, I included 1” short-row to front (4 wraps/turns,) matching tucked seam before border to hem and cuffs.  Don’t get me wrong when I modify a pattern, which I often do.  In no way a design flaw…I am just anal about my finishing.

I love Vera Sanon‘s elegant designs and rarely say no to test knitting whenever she posts and/or asks.  Her instruction is simple and clearly written, with great layout.  Should an issue arise, the designer is always available for Q&As…very supportive, thoughtful, and genuinely loving.  Here is a truly super woman of my time!  Besides working a full 40-hour-week as a school teacher, teaching workshops at yarn shop locally and in Las Vegas on weekends, she cranks out at least one new design a week (sometimes more!)

Don’t believe me?  Take time and browse through her 100+ design patterns here.  I am sure you will find at least one project that pleases you.

About the lovely, silky yarn…this is one of my few pet peeves:  Less weight/yardage than labeled.  I’m no mathematics genius.  Out of 7 hanks/50g each,  I should have 350 grams in all.  Right?  Yet, I started out 342 grams with 31 grams left in the last hank.  8 grams or 24 yards less than labeled. Companies like Stonehedge Fiber Mill would have sold this at 30% discount as “irregular.” Nuff said.

What are some of your pet peeves?

How are you doing today/tonight?  My knitting peeps and I had a fabulous field trip to Sisters, visiting The Stitchin Post

and having lunch in Clearwater Gallery.  Yep.  It’s true.  Open Door may not be on the main street of Sisters, but, that’s just one of many attributes that make it so delightful.  It’s a place where I instantly feel at home, thanks to the friendly welcome from manager and staff,

the beautiful decor and tantalizing aromas wafting in from the kitchen.  On my third day of fasting, I gave myself permission to order a cup of roasted carrot and ginger soup.  I was not disappointed!  Neither were my friends with their food.  A warm, inviting place that encourages me to slow down and enjoy meeting friendly residents of Sisters, peruse beautiful art…thank you for the GIFT to the community, Dan & Julie Rickards.

Rest of the afternoon was as exhilarating and adventurous as the first half of the day with Caitlin and my mushroom-guru friend Julie.

Hope you are surrounded by peace, lots of love, and happiness.  Sending you good vibes and warm bright light-from my heart to yours.

Sorry for a flood of posts…I’m catching up on a week’s worth of posts that didn’t go out as scheduled last week.

Happy crafting and keep those creative juices running!

(still doesn’t do texting, MySpace, Twitter, StumbleUpon, DiggIt…but caved into Facebook!)