Happy Halloween!

This is what you get when you steal the kids candy after they go to bed!



This was from my friend at Yarn Yenta Isn't she funny?

A second purse finished!!

I've been wanting to finish this little baby for awhile. Finally it's done and listed on Etsy with The Grey Beast!! I guess this is my blog so I can make the shameless self-promo. I finally got these two (only two but ya gotta start somewhere right?) listed on Esty.com under StickChicShwag.I hope someone besides me likes them enough to buy them. I love making these bags and shopping (there, I admit it) but am tired of ruining our bank account. We just refinanced our house and bought a car because our other car was giving up the ghost. We were making it fine but these two new things made our payments and car insurance go up enough that we are barely scraping by again. I'm tired of the constant struggle and would like to at least support my yarn/fabric habits, maybe pay for some of the smaller bills at least. I don't want to be the next Martha Stewart (like that would ever happen, hahaha!!) but I would love to ease the burden on my husband. The Lord has blessed me with these talents and it is something I love. I want to give it my best shot and see what happens. What more can anyone ask right?

Great Surprise!!

What a wonderful surprise awaited me today in the mail! My Hotsocks package came today and I had NO idea!! It was filled with wonderful things from Janet in SC. The hot cocoa she says is GREAT (oh ya, it's the perfect gloomy day for dippin into that later!!) Plus, some GORGEOUS blue varigated wool and a great pattern for socks, a super fun book, some yummy looking teas and a chocolate bar that I'm dying to sink my teeth into. Thank you Janet!! You rock!!

In other news, stay tuned for a shameless self promo. I FINALLY got the Grey Beast felted bag listed on Etsy. One lonely thing, but we all have to start somewhere. I'm done with the cutest little black bag too aside from the lining so today is kinda of a pat on the back. Took me dang near toooo long to get even this far as to allow myself to stick it out on Etsy! I think I'm scared silly someone is going to say "oh, your stuff sucks" or is not good enough. I won't know until I try and I decided after A LOOOONG time debating with anyone that would listen (sorry everyone) that I would only make things I like. At least I know SOMEONe likes my stuff even if it's just me mostly.

I worry that I am too influenced by other wonderful artists/crafters that my things won't be unique enough. I'm scared of failure and I think I'm scared of success too.
I'm so scared that I have allowed myself to quit believing my dreams, let self doubt rule me and allow the fear of failure to stop me before I ever began. I may not be the best but even the best had to start somewhere. I think I am on the right path. I am happy and creating, have the most wonderful and supportive friends and family so what more could a girl want? I want personal success, not success by how the world measures it though. I don't want millions of dollars (okay, that's a lie and we all know it) but that's not the driving force. I have something to say and I choose to say it through knitting and sewing. This is my voice!! Hear me roar (er, my sewing machine hum, doesn't sound as forceful though)

Like the lining?

Finally a finished project!!I really enjoy making purses but only need so many myself. The holidays and my two best friends have birthdays coming too but I'm thinking of trying to sell this puppy and a few of it's friends (not done yet) on Etsy. I've gotten myself into trouble with overspending and would like to try to support my yarn habit at least. It's this or I'm having my hubby put me on an allowance. I think I may try both since it will take time to find my niche and see if anyone else on Etsy likes me. Oh am I praying they do!!

And this is my version of knitty's "Loopy and Luscious". I'm using a bulky yarn half the size of what the pattern calls for a more subtle effect along with a darker colored mohair. I've gotten alot of compliments (oh sooo good for my little ego) at my LYS. It's about halfway done, I want it REALLY long I think.

Answers for SP9 fun!!

1. Where is your favorite knitting spot? On the sofa watching a good movie or at my local yarn store's open time.

2. If you suddenly could never knit again (shudder) - what would you do instead? Cry, cry some more and get the sewing done that is forever waiting for me (note to self *should quit buying fabric* HAHAHA! I amuse myself)

3. If you could travel anywhere in the world - where would you go and why? London, it's the only place my hubby and I REALLY want to go. We want to see where punk began, buy Doc Martens cheap and visit my super good friend from International Tote Exchange 2 (she's the BEST!!!)

4. When you were little - What did you want to do "when you grew up?" Are you doing it? Be a veterinarian. No, reality is a cruel mistress (ok, I was a lousy student) Life is good, just different then those childhood dreams. I think most adults would agree though.

5. What is your favorite flavor of ice cream? I don't care for ice cream, but anything chocolate is all good. Chocolate Freddy's custard is super yummy if you "force" my hand though.

A Shopping I Did Go!!

Oh ya!! Hit the yarn store hard today. This isn't a great photo of the super pretty yarns, but a couple are surprises and I don't want them to know a)which is theirs or b)how really nifty the stuff I got for them is (I think)

I took the very good advice of a very good friend and sat in my local yarn stores open time. It was sooo good for me, I got some advice on a project but more importantly, found others with similar loves and was embraced by fellow crafting sisters. There is something only those with similar passions in common can offer each other. I had lost that contact with a group that inspires me like that and feel embraced by the warmth thinking and creating brings.

If you are feeling lonely, take my smart (but tooo far away!!) friends advice and find a local group of knitters/crafters, join a quild or whatever you have!! A little effort will do wonders for your sanity (and your families too) It seems basic, kind of a "duh" but I hadn't done it since moving to Kansas. I was unfulfilled and didn't know why. I was expecting too much from those not capable of understanding the thought processes I was having and putting too much into trying to be the perfect mom/wife (what a joke, never feel like I'm anywhere close). I lost ME and that special contact with women like me. It feels selfish, can't afford it, too busy.

What is the cost of losing your creativity and teaching your children you are not the taxi service. Our children maybe need not go to all the soccer games or dance lessons if it means we teach them women are individuals with our own dreams. What messages are we teaching our children? Are we teaching them the world revolves around them and once you're an adult, you have no personal identity or dreams? Once my kids were old enough to go to school for the whole day, I became lost with nothing of my own anymore. I am still smart and creative, but couldn't tap into it. It has taken me two years and I'm still not anywhere close to what I want for myself, still lost in many ways. We have to join together as women in our communities to ensure others don't feel lost in the crowd. Women are committing suicide because of feelings of inadequacy and loneliness, it is a real problem.

Everyone is busy, but so many are lonely while they rush off to yet one more activity. Too busy being the perfect mom/wife to take care of ourselves. This is happening on a national level and no one takes it seriously. (Poor hubby, he tries so valiantly to listen when I need to talk to someone to about the virtues of my newest yarn/fabric/paint) I have been contemplating quitting my church position in charge of our women's activities. I feel so unneeded and run over currently, but last night we had a get together. After listening to the other women brought me to the realization how many others want/need what I desire to accomplish for them. The women expressed their needs/wants to have purpose, dignity and beauty in their lives, to be WOMEN.

Cleaning your Room pays off!!

I keep telling my kids that cleaning their rooms pays off. SOOO, I took my own advice and cleaned my sewing room. I dug around in the bottomless bins and found all these autumn beauties (well, they are in real life, camera sucks)just screaming "USE US!!!" Oh ya!! Can you say PROJECT!! I see a bag needing to be made. OH YES siree bob!! And to think I was having a big "whoa is me" day.

I was feeling very "alone in a crowd" today. Every now and again, I get very lonely. My two closest friends are far away from me (thank goodness for email!!) and there is no one local that I seem to have anything in common with. I was feeling sad to have no one to go out to lunch or have some hot cocoa and read magazines at Borders with. I know I am very blessed in my life, but sometimes I wish I had a good girlfriend to go out with. There is no one around me that likes to play on the internet, knit, sew, paint or anything I like to do. Heck, half the time when I talk about blogging or any of the great things I've found or do, I get funny looks. Hmm, maybe it's just me. I've always gotten funny looks so I should be used to it. I've always kinda been different then most people around me, but it gets lonely. I'm not THAT unique!! Scheesh!!

This happy discovery in my stash doesn't make the sadness go away, but it gave me that kick of inspiration I've been hoping for. Maybe I can create my own happiness. Worth a shot!! At least I'll get something nifty out of the deal!

It's rainy outside and I'm SLACKING!

Ever notice that when it is rainy and grey outside, it's hard to make yourself move? Today is that day. It is a fabulous day for watching old movies under a warm blankie with a cup of cocoa. Problem is, it's only Tuesday afternoon and there are many things crying for my attention. Aren't there always though?

So far, I've done a bang up job of ignoring the many tasks that I should be doing. I did manage to finish these stitch markers. They are Hostess cakes for my very good friend in England who cannot purchase Twinkies overseas. I know!! OH THE HUMANITY!!! So I made her permanent ones. Not sure if that's a nice thing or torture. I made others too, but won't post them until she has them. It's a surprise and she might peek!!

I've been trying to be more productive with my time. You would think that in today's world with everyone else being so busy that there would be no time for boredom. It's incredible, but here I am!! My three boys are all in school and I'm still in limbo of trying to gainfully occupy my time. I have put alot of thought into what to do with myself, but so far LAZY is winning. My aspirations are much bigger than my motivation or something like that. Hmmm, might be time to clean off the old workspace and see what we can do with ourselves. I think that pile of fabric I bought too long ago has taken over the chair (at least I remember a chair being there, uh oh).

oh so fun to bop along with!!

My husband says I'm slow in the land of music, but I just landed on this. Give them a listen and *phhfffft* at you if you already knew about The Weepies
Thanks to Shoes and Ships for mentioning them!!

Secret Pal 9 Questionaire

Here is my Secret Pal 9 questionaire, but anyone else who wants to get me presents can use this too!! he he!!

1. What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with? What fibers do you absolutely *not* like?
I don't really have a favorite, I'm actually pretty new to knitting. I still am at mostly buying for the project I am making and haven't learned enough of yarns to know likes/dislikes. I have become to notice I don't care for manmade fibers, but they have a place still with me for the right things.

2. What do you use to store your needles/hooks in? A rubbermaid shoebox size box, ohh so pretty (NOT)

3. How long have you been knitting & how did you learn? Would you consider your skill level to be beginner, intermediate or advanced?
I've been knitting for maybe 6 months. I learned from a book and the internet. Learned? No, still learning. I have made some things that were intermediate so I guess I'm an advanced beginner. Depends on the project I guess. I've made 6 purses and just finished competing in sock wars.
4. Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list? Yes, on Amazon.com

5. What's your favorite scent? (for candles, bath products, etc.) Vanilla,chocolate, lavender and chamomile (sp) smelling lotion. Um not all at once, EWWW

6. Do you have a sweet tooth? Favorite candy? Chocolate and lots of it!!

7. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do? Do you spin? Sewing, smocking, decorative painting on wood or anything that stands still. I don't spin, but wouldn't mind learning tatting too.

8. What kind of music do you like? Can your computer/stereo play MP3s? (if your buddy wants to make you a CD)
I love Snowpatrol and Aqualung currently (adult alternative), Michael Bublie and Josh Groban. My husband is huge on MOG so I have allll the music a girl could want (and alot I don't ha ha). We have mp3 players everywhere, car, computers, house.

9. What's your favorite color(s)? Any colors you just can't stand? I have been craving deep dark purples and have always liked black, navy and autumn colors. I don't have a color I can't stand, just don't favor brights or neons (ok, yuck to neon)
10. What is your family situation? Do you have any pets?
I am a stay at home mother, my husband works for IBM from home, we have 3 sons 6,9, and 13. We have a German short-hair pointer.

11. Do you wear scarves, hats, mittens or ponchos? All of the above as weather permits or requires. We live in Kansas so the weather can allow for all of them at some point.

12. What is/are your favorite item/s to knit?
Purses, but only because that's all I've really been doing and all I know really well. I'd love to give something beautiful a try, but have been chicken and doing socks first. Trying to "master" some harder things like the techniques for socks and everyone always raves about socks so I have to try.

13. What are you knitting right now?
Socks and a bag. I'm going to give a sweater in VK a try next, but need to get the right yarn
14. Do you like to receive handmade gifts? OH YES!!

15. Do you prefer straight or circular needles? Bamboo, aluminum, plastic?
Circular if possible and always bamboo. I poke myself with aluminum and it hurts my fingers. Too slippery too

16. Do you own a yarn winder and/or swift? Nope

17. How old is your oldest UFO?
Don't have any for knitting (don't ask about sewing though, I would be embarrassed)

18. What is your favorite holiday? Halloween and Christmas. Don't make me pick just one!!

19. Is there anything that you collect? Not really, I was going after unusual chickens, but I'm pretty picky about them. I know, weird.

20. Any books, yarns, needles or patterns out there you are dying to get your hands on? What knitting magazine subscriptions do you have?
No, I've gotten everything I need/want from the internet. Maybe Lucinda Guys book"Handknits for Kids: 25 Original Designs for Girls and Boys" No mag subscribtions either, just buy them as I see what I like at the store. And seeming to buy older VK, not the newer ones, dont know why.

21. Are there any new techniques you'd like to learn? Lace

22. Are you a sock knitter? What are your foot measurements? I'm trying to be. I'm a US 9 or 9 1/2 if tight.

23. When is your birthday? (mm/dd) 05/11 (May 11)

Dead Girl walking (in GREAT socks)

Well the inevitible has happened, I was killed and the post man only rang once. My blood ran cold as I saw the special van in front of the house. I opened the door to recieve a squishy package with the simple "stinky socks" (my war name) above the address. My hands shook as I gently RIPPED open the package to find *gasp* DEATH in the most gorgeous, soft baby blue socks you could ever hope to wear and WOW are they FABULOUS!! BUT WAIT!! They smelled great too. Muthaknitter had included a candle the scent of "Peace" (Betcha didn't know peace had a smell huh? But let me tell you, it smells divine!) To make the journey sweeter, she also included two yummy gourmet chocolate bars (had to smack my hubby's hands away from the lime macadamia nut one) and a pedicure kit to keep my feet in great shape while wearing these baby blue beauties!!

updated sock of doom

Hey!! Its really a sock!! Now to hurry and make the other one *sigh*

Sock of DOOM!!

I think I must be REALLY slow because I have worked most of the day and this is all I've got. I guess its something, one victim never even got cast on before biting the dust

I have seen my doom and she's a Mutha!!

Well, I found my assassin and dang it, she's a good knitter. She's Muthaknitter!! http://muthaknitter.blogspot.com/ I'm gonna die and maybe soon!! Ugh!! I'm at least moving along on my own sock. Uh, ya, the FIRST one. *sigh* Back to the needles I go

I think I suck

Okay, so now we have our victims and the pattern, some have even said that SOMEHOW they are done and even have mailed their socks. I think they are lying stinkers, but I saw pictures!! SEE?!? http://unioncenterknits.typepad.com/
I have the first inch (look at me go!) and decided to start over because my k1,p1 is off on one needle. I might get "knocked off" but I'm not going on down with bad knitting on my needles!!! That's my story and I'm sticking to it!

Got my sock war yarn and a victim

Went to my LYS and found some great Regia in DK weight asper the pattern requirements. I need to do a swatch, I think that might have been the problem on my other pattern. Had to be the pattern, couldn't have been me. No WAY!!

Yarn monkey is doing a great job with keeping things under control with sock wars. She was hampered by Hurrincand Gordon, but is keeping us moving along with our "victim" assignments. Better get rolling or someone will get me before I even get in a stitch.

ARGGHH!

I worked and worked to try out knitting my first pair of socks using Regia self striping yarn. I kept thinking the sock sure looked big, but kept trudging along. Slipped it over my foot with double points still sticking out and it was HUGE!!! I pulled the whole thing apart and am now going to just jump into my sock war victim's socks. Some "assassins" are saying they have finished a sock even though we just got the pattern TODAY!! EEK!

Self Portrait

I thought this was a fun place to visit. My husband and I did our whole family, Robert Smith (The Cure) and Bono. We have a lot of spare time on our hands, yup yup http://images.southparkstudios.com/games/create/sp_game.swf

Even lets me have my cuppa cocoa, yum!!

This is my first blog site!

I've seen so many fun sites, I wanted to try my own. (So give me a break if it sucks) My name is Melissa and I live in Kansas. I have recently discovered knitting and am now an addict and I don't ever want to recover!! I also do silk ribbon embroidery and smocking among other things. Okay, I sound totally boring, WOW!

This is a pic of my dog "Nut" (Not the best pic ever, I'll have to take another)We rescued her from the Rocky Mtn German Shorthair Pointer Rescue. I think it is a wonderful way to find a fabulous friend. She is a welcome addition to our home and you will not find a more loyal friend. Check out some others that could use a friend-
http://www.rockymtngsp.org/ (I have no affiliation with them, they are non-profit)

Recently I have joined the International Tote Exchange 2. I have made a great friend named Dawn from England who has a great blog site.