Jump Start

It's been quite a while since I was able to just make something I wanted to for myself. Not that I didn't try -- 2007 was full of UFOs, some of which I'm determined to revisit (Autumn Rose and the Lacy Waves Top leap to mind). I felt my knitting mojo had deserted me, what with the giant life changes we've had over the past year.

So, in order to kick start my designing engine, I thought I'd do some things just for the heck of it. If it leads to something cool, then great -- I have a new piece for my wardrobe that suits the size and shape I am now. (Why does no one tell you that having a baby changes the location of things?)
If it doesn't work out, I've still explored an idea and figured out how to do the best job possible. Being able to take my time about it is a luxury.

So I've picked up some delectable yarn (Ella Rae Shibu; disco'ed colors on sale at Elann) and started swatching.
The idea hasn't fully coalesced in my head yet, but I'm calling it Streamlined. Clean lines, simple knitting, as much self-finishing as I can make happen. We'll see how she plays out.

How Did I Not Know This?

The Knitting Guild of America is having its Fall Show -- here in Portland! Hot diggity. I am totally looking forward to this.

In other, equally exciting news:


We are now 7, and possess a single Front Tooth. (Hee.)
(No, we did not take him to the Fast Food Joint for his birthday. He asked for (and received) a trip to Sushiland:


I'd say that's a good evening's work.

Kicking Butt and Taking Names

The new Knitty is up, and as always Jenna Wilson (Girl From Auntie) rocks out the technical info. This time, it's grading patterns for multiple sizes. Teh awesome!

Further Hilarity

Boy-O posted this one in comments, but it's too good not to share:

N: Yesterday, when we were walking the dogs, we saw five cars with flat tires.

Boy-O: Oh. Sounds like some kids were being delinquent in the neighborhood.

T: What Dalinquint mean?

Boy-O: It means not-doing-what-you're-supposed to.

N: Oh! Like driving too fast.

Boy-O: Sure, that would be delinquent.

T: Or you could drive over a piece of glass.

Boy-O: What?

N: Or, like, when you're driving and Jezebel jumps on you and you start driving all crazy.

Boy-O: NO! I mean, no. Being delinquent is not-doing-what-you're-supposed to do. Like not doing your homework, or like hitting your brother or sister.

N and T: Oh.

(N and T make consternated faces, clearly thinking: How does hitting my sister make me get a flat tire?)

Boy-O: I meant that it looks like some kids were going through the neighborhood stabbing tires with a knife....

Boy-O (cont'd): Which is bad.

N: Oh! `Cause like if someone comes up behind you and you don't see them and you turn around. You could hurt somebody.

Boy-O: NO! I mean yes. I mean no! I mean, yes, you need to be careful when you're slashing someone's tires... DON'T SLASH PEOPLES' TIRES!