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| Me and the Papal Visit Committee, 1986 SOURCE: ACT HERITAGE LIBRARY, Canberra Times Collection |
Further Information at http://www.library.act.gov.au/find/history
Friday, May 10, 2013
Test Post for Angelo
Showing Angelo how easy it is to add content to Blogger.
Further Information at http://www.library.act.gov.au/find/history
Further Information at http://www.library.act.gov.au/find/history
Wednesday, January 09, 2013
Hot in the city
We've had a week of hideously hot weather. Over 33 degrees Celcius, most days much higher.
The absolute best part of knitting in public on really hot days?
Being able to answer the incredulous stares and comments by slowly smiling, peering over the top of my glasses and in a deadpan voice, saying
The absolute best part of knitting in public on really hot days?
Being able to answer the incredulous stares and comments by slowly smiling, peering over the top of my glasses and in a deadpan voice, saying
Monday, December 17, 2012
Getting a Grip
The stationery section of any shop is always worth checking out.
The local $2 shop (Hot Dollar, Woden Plaza) had a packet of 5 pencil grips and umpty ump pencil topper rubbers for ... wait for it ... $2.
The supermarket stopped carrying the pencil grips I've been using for a couple of years so I was very pleased to see these.
Not for use with pencils, obviously, but for knitting.
While this solution doesn't protect the needle tips, it does prevent stitch slippage. These work well on 2.25mm and larger needles. They will stay on the 2mm needles, but not as securely. That's ok, most of the socks I knit are on 2.25mm needles anyway.
The pencil toppers might work as point protectors on larger straights, or perhaps I could join two together with a length of elastic for a combo dpn point protector/stitch holder. Hmm - will get back to you on that.
The local $2 shop (Hot Dollar, Woden Plaza) had a packet of 5 pencil grips and umpty ump pencil topper rubbers for ... wait for it ... $2.
The supermarket stopped carrying the pencil grips I've been using for a couple of years so I was very pleased to see these.
Not for use with pencils, obviously, but for knitting.
While this solution doesn't protect the needle tips, it does prevent stitch slippage. These work well on 2.25mm and larger needles. They will stay on the 2mm needles, but not as securely. That's ok, most of the socks I knit are on 2.25mm needles anyway.
The pencil toppers might work as point protectors on larger straights, or perhaps I could join two together with a length of elastic for a combo dpn point protector/stitch holder. Hmm - will get back to you on that.
Tuesday, December 04, 2012
At the carwash, yeah
I'm sorry, our staff member has a lot on his mind right now - he can't possibly help you.
Sunday, November 11, 2012
Saturday, November 10, 2012
Saturday, October 27, 2012
Tonic
One of the underpinning truths of my life is that there knitting is suited to every mood and circumstance.
Late this week I needed knitting that was without deadline, entirely unrelated to any thing or event, or anyone else, that was achievable, sensually immersive, and that was uplifting.
From deep in the boodle came a skein of 100% angora yarn, hand-dyed and given to me by the Happy Spider. The colourway, Ophelia, is randomly variegated in greens, ranging from soft leaf, through lime, sea green to a deep teal which giave me a thrill of pleasure each time it appeared. The yarn is two singles held together but not really plied and it is blooming as I knit.
The pattern was already in my queue, Elinor Brown's Ridged Lace Cowl. I was a bit low on yardage for the pattern (155m instead of 183m+) but as I have a short neck to start and several added chins a smallerer version is fine and this yarn just demanded to be worn on the neck. As it turns out, it will only be one pattern repeat shorter than the pattern. More details on Ravelry.
There are a couple of bonuses in this knit. It proved to be an easily memorised pattern and totally portable, so it enjoyed a sit and knit by Lake Burley Griffin between commitments one night and it ticks a pattern off the queue. Don't underestimate the deep satisfaction that gives this compulsive list maker!
It was cast off over breakfast on Saturday and was just the tonic needed.
Late this week I needed knitting that was without deadline, entirely unrelated to any thing or event, or anyone else, that was achievable, sensually immersive, and that was uplifting.
From deep in the boodle came a skein of 100% angora yarn, hand-dyed and given to me by the Happy Spider. The colourway, Ophelia, is randomly variegated in greens, ranging from soft leaf, through lime, sea green to a deep teal which giave me a thrill of pleasure each time it appeared. The yarn is two singles held together but not really plied and it is blooming as I knit.
The pattern was already in my queue, Elinor Brown's Ridged Lace Cowl. I was a bit low on yardage for the pattern (155m instead of 183m+) but as I have a short neck to start and several added chins a smallerer version is fine and this yarn just demanded to be worn on the neck. As it turns out, it will only be one pattern repeat shorter than the pattern. More details on Ravelry.
There are a couple of bonuses in this knit. It proved to be an easily memorised pattern and totally portable, so it enjoyed a sit and knit by Lake Burley Griffin between commitments one night and it ticks a pattern off the queue. Don't underestimate the deep satisfaction that gives this compulsive list maker!
It was cast off over breakfast on Saturday and was just the tonic needed.
Thursday, October 25, 2012
Table turning
ABC Canberra came to film at work this week. They were a delight.
This is Toby the cameraman
My bit in the story was very, very small.
This is Toby the cameraman
and Kathleen the journalist.
My bit in the story was very, very small.
Wednesday, October 24, 2012
None of these things are not like the others
The only visible difference between these models is that one of them is blonde.
Who does Levi's think it is kidding? Perhaps it thinks its customers are stupid. Advertising fail.
Tuesday, October 23, 2012
The little things make all the difference
We were travelling recently and I discovered that my car is the perfect knitter's vehicle.
Socks for TOF in Lang Jawoll cotton wool blend with vintage Patonyle for cuffs, heels and toes (yardage on the Jawoll is a bit skimpy).
Socks for TOF in Lang Jawoll cotton wool blend with vintage Patonyle for cuffs, heels and toes (yardage on the Jawoll is a bit skimpy).
Friday, May 18, 2012
Ear Warms
Podcasts are one of my very favourite forms of distraction.
Mostly I listen on my 'phone, often to drown out conversations or other unedifying noises, so earbuds are essential kit. Being able to lay hands on the earbuds in a hurry is often the best form of protection the public has.
For a wee while I was using a lipstick case to carry the earbuds around in. I already owned it and the hard sides were protective, but it also took up a lot of hand bag real estate and was always right down the very bottom, causing dangerous seconds of delay in plugging in.
I toyed with the idea of sewing a little case but it all seemed fiddly and there are no small remants in the fabric stash anymore. I could have bought a small soft bag at an op shop for a couple of dollars, but it seemed unnecessary even at that price when I have skillz and yarn.
So I knitted one.
This first one was a bit drapey and a smidge too wide and not being quite long enough. It's great for memory sticks, though.
I've been using version 1.1 for my earbuds for a week and am loving it.
It is 6 cm high and 7.5cm wide. Design features include an i-cord loop to fasten it to a tab in my bag for easy access, and moss stitch for cushiness. I opted for a stocking stitch envelope style flap for contrast and because the decreases in moss stitch were a bit messy.
This is pouch two of version 1.1 (very minor tweaking) .
Version 1.2 is currently in the testing phase. This sample was knitted recently, and the test knit is on the needles right now.
Each pouch gobbles up about 7g of 4ply/sock weight/fingering weight yarn and the buttons are all from stash.
The blue buttons were rescued from a pair of TOF's discarded underpants and the maroon were decorative features on a pair of knickers I bought last year. I snipped the buttons off before they were worn.
Excuse me while I go shine my halo of frugalness.
Mostly I listen on my 'phone, often to drown out conversations or other unedifying noises, so earbuds are essential kit. Being able to lay hands on the earbuds in a hurry is often the best form of protection the public has.
For a wee while I was using a lipstick case to carry the earbuds around in. I already owned it and the hard sides were protective, but it also took up a lot of hand bag real estate and was always right down the very bottom, causing dangerous seconds of delay in plugging in.
I toyed with the idea of sewing a little case but it all seemed fiddly and there are no small remants in the fabric stash anymore. I could have bought a small soft bag at an op shop for a couple of dollars, but it seemed unnecessary even at that price when I have skillz and yarn.
So I knitted one.
This first one was a bit drapey and a smidge too wide and not being quite long enough. It's great for memory sticks, though.
I've been using version 1.1 for my earbuds for a week and am loving it.
It is 6 cm high and 7.5cm wide. Design features include an i-cord loop to fasten it to a tab in my bag for easy access, and moss stitch for cushiness. I opted for a stocking stitch envelope style flap for contrast and because the decreases in moss stitch were a bit messy.
This is pouch two of version 1.1 (very minor tweaking) .
Version 1.2 is currently in the testing phase. This sample was knitted recently, and the test knit is on the needles right now.
Each pouch gobbles up about 7g of 4ply/sock weight/fingering weight yarn and the buttons are all from stash.
The blue buttons were rescued from a pair of TOF's discarded underpants and the maroon were decorative features on a pair of knickers I bought last year. I snipped the buttons off before they were worn.
Excuse me while I go shine my halo of frugalness.
Wednesday, May 16, 2012
Celebration of Wool Day at the Old Bus Depot Markets
One of the Holy Days of Obligation on my fibre calendar, I haven’t missed a Celebration of Wool Day in years.
We were at the venue last week for the annual Snow Sports ACT sale, where I snapped the socks in progress with the Wool Day postcard.
I’ll be there bright and early on Sunday morning and this year I’ll have an audio recorder in tow.
If you see me on Sunday, please say hi and maybe say a few words for the recorder – I’m expanding my horizons with a spot of podcasting.
Thursday, May 10, 2012
12 in 12 - uncle
This was just one challenge too many this year. I'm calling it quits so I can replace dead basics including shoes, tops and trousers for work and clothes for next summer. Most of my most of my summer tops had to be discarded at the end of the season. They were scruffy beyond redemption.
Then there is a need for a reasonable summer wardrobe for a family celebration trip to Singapore in mid-summer. I couldn't find 2 days worth of clothing for a work trip to Brisbane in last March let alone 8 days in the humidity of Singapore.
Fortunately the fabric stash can sustain several coordinating tops plus a few dresses for evening. Operation Singapore Sling begins in late June. I bought a heap of black linen to make trousers.
The 12 items challenge has been great to focus my taste and tailor it to my shape and colour preferences and I continue to apply those lessons.
Then there is a need for a reasonable summer wardrobe for a family celebration trip to Singapore in mid-summer. I couldn't find 2 days worth of clothing for a work trip to Brisbane in last March let alone 8 days in the humidity of Singapore.
Fortunately the fabric stash can sustain several coordinating tops plus a few dresses for evening. Operation Singapore Sling begins in late June. I bought a heap of black linen to make trousers.
The 12 items challenge has been great to focus my taste and tailor it to my shape and colour preferences and I continue to apply those lessons.
Tuesday, March 06, 2012
12 in 12 February Update
I bought a dress. Op shopped, of course, and quite expensive for that. $15 for a TS 14+ (pricey label for larger sizes).
It's a gorgeous black and grey, quite fashionable, dress for winter. It is sleeveless with a button through the front - rather like a long men's vest. It will be great with a long sleeved t-shirt over tights.
Quota use 1/12 in the first two months.
It's a gorgeous black and grey, quite fashionable, dress for winter. It is sleeveless with a button through the front - rather like a long men's vest. It will be great with a long sleeved t-shirt over tights.
Quota use 1/12 in the first two months.
Sunday, February 12, 2012
Those devilish details
Living between two houses and just generally being on the move means that sometimes I forget details.
Sometimes I even forget REALLY important details, like my knitting.
A couple of weeks ago I left the socks on the go at work and only discovered the loss when I got to TOF's 25k away.
And there was no knitting on the needles at TOF's and there was no spare yarn in the car or the emergency drawer.
A hunt around revealed a small amount of sock yarn left over from a matinee jacket. I had sock needles and 39 grams of yarn. And the thought of another pair of baby socks wasn't doing it for me.
Thank the knitting goddesses for Ravelry. Soon I had cast on the Work Mini-Mitts by Rachel Maxson and the first was all but finished in a short evening.
You would think that would be the end of it. But not.
My lack of attention to detail revealed itself in the morning when I went to knit the thumb. The designer had omitted that detail from the pattern and I hadn't read the pattern through before casting on.
I guess I should be relieved that I'm not the only one who can forget important stuff.
I made up the thumb, badly as it turned out. Apart from the rather loose thumbs, the mitts are far too skimpy for my liking but I finished the things and they'll get used. And until next time, I'll remember to pay attention to the details.
Sometimes I even forget REALLY important details, like my knitting.
A couple of weeks ago I left the socks on the go at work and only discovered the loss when I got to TOF's 25k away.
And there was no knitting on the needles at TOF's and there was no spare yarn in the car or the emergency drawer.
A hunt around revealed a small amount of sock yarn left over from a matinee jacket. I had sock needles and 39 grams of yarn. And the thought of another pair of baby socks wasn't doing it for me.
Thank the knitting goddesses for Ravelry. Soon I had cast on the Work Mini-Mitts by Rachel Maxson and the first was all but finished in a short evening.
You would think that would be the end of it. But not.
My lack of attention to detail revealed itself in the morning when I went to knit the thumb. The designer had omitted that detail from the pattern and I hadn't read the pattern through before casting on.
I guess I should be relieved that I'm not the only one who can forget important stuff.
I made up the thumb, badly as it turned out. Apart from the rather loose thumbs, the mitts are far too skimpy for my liking but I finished the things and they'll get used. And until next time, I'll remember to pay attention to the details.
Wednesday, February 01, 2012
12 in 12 January Update
No clothes purchased. None, nil, nada... Doing the happy dance of thrift!
I've been looking as usual, but nothing has presented itself as worthy.
I have made myself a shawl as a layering piece for at home in winter, so while it is new it is exempt as it's handmade and totally from stash.
There has also been more disposal of clothing. I cannot believe there is still stuff I don't wear or don't like in the wardrobe, but it there is.
I'd been holding on to a couple of pairs of three-quarter length jeans for a while but wasn't wearing them because I didn't really like them on. I have one pair that just keeps being worn and washed and worn again and really need two pairs for summer. Problem is, I've not found another pair I like as much so had a bit of a rethink about why I like to wear denim cut offs - they are cooler than jeans but just as durable and work with my tee shirts and tops. So now my long eschewed knee-length denim skirt is back in rotation and the unloved trews have gone back to the op shop.
And while I was at it, some unflattering tops and a couple of sentimentally kept kilts left the house as well.
The black tee-shirts are starting to show definite signs of wear, though. They will last this warm season, but not another. Some have already migrated from the suitable for work pile, to the at home only pile.
I've been looking as usual, but nothing has presented itself as worthy.
I have made myself a shawl as a layering piece for at home in winter, so while it is new it is exempt as it's handmade and totally from stash.
There has also been more disposal of clothing. I cannot believe there is still stuff I don't wear or don't like in the wardrobe, but it there is.
I'd been holding on to a couple of pairs of three-quarter length jeans for a while but wasn't wearing them because I didn't really like them on. I have one pair that just keeps being worn and washed and worn again and really need two pairs for summer. Problem is, I've not found another pair I like as much so had a bit of a rethink about why I like to wear denim cut offs - they are cooler than jeans but just as durable and work with my tee shirts and tops. So now my long eschewed knee-length denim skirt is back in rotation and the unloved trews have gone back to the op shop.
And while I was at it, some unflattering tops and a couple of sentimentally kept kilts left the house as well.
The black tee-shirts are starting to show definite signs of wear, though. They will last this warm season, but not another. Some have already migrated from the suitable for work pile, to the at home only pile.
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
Knit Focus is back
The cosy production is back on track. This set is for the cosy fund raiser.
More free patterns by Paulina Chin for her Speedy Cabled Cowl and matching beret. Here and here on Ravelry.
Knitted in Twilleys of Stamford Freedom Wool from stash. I love this richly coloured single.
Modifications were needed. Both patterns stipulate being knitted flat and frankly but it's far simpler to just knit them in the round. So I did. I also added a cable repeat to each of the items. The beret would be a beanie otherwise, and the cowl would be a little skimpy, too.
I have two and a bit balls of the Freedom wool left and am tempted to knit the beret again with 4 cable repeats before decrease for extra slouch (and maybe keep the beret because I really love this yarn).
More free patterns by Paulina Chin for her Speedy Cabled Cowl and matching beret. Here and here on Ravelry.
Knitted in Twilleys of Stamford Freedom Wool from stash. I love this richly coloured single.
Modifications were needed. Both patterns stipulate being knitted flat and frankly but it's far simpler to just knit them in the round. So I did. I also added a cable repeat to each of the items. The beret would be a beanie otherwise, and the cowl would be a little skimpy, too.
I have two and a bit balls of the Freedom wool left and am tempted to knit the beret again with 4 cable repeats before decrease for extra slouch (and maybe keep the beret because I really love this yarn).
Monday, January 30, 2012
Neapolitan Arroyo
This shawl was going to be for the cosy project (knitting cosy things for work fund-raising raffle), but I like it too much - so it's mine.
The Jet is totally stash. Despite it being one of my favourite yarns, most of the Jet stash has gone to some charity knitters. A few balls survived the cull and I'm very glad they did.
In Patons Jet, it is the colours of neapolitan icecream. It won't show the "love sprinkles" from the sheddy Jack Russell, and is light and warm across my back and shoulders. TOF doesn't feel the cold, so layers are an important aspect of maintaining our relationship - I wear them and don't complain at him about the cold so much.
Arroyo is a free pattern 'on the designers' blog and on Ravelry and knits up quickly for normal, non-lace challenged people (not me, obviously). The short rows in garter stitch are totally addictive.
The Jet is totally stash. Despite it being one of my favourite yarns, most of the Jet stash has gone to some charity knitters. A few balls survived the cull and I'm very glad they did.
Sunday, January 29, 2012
Sew and Sew
Mix tip shop bargain, with Tupperware obsession and sewing notions and you get a very happy op shopper.
This large sized, two tiered Tupperware craft organiser is about the size of a large slice container. We picked it up at Tiny's Green Shed on Sunday for about $1.50. I say about because we had 3 things in the bundle for $3. I've never seen one like it before. I several of the small kind, but this one is a really good size.
It's already full of mending notions. Every op shopper needs a decent hand mending kit at the very least.
This large sized, two tiered Tupperware craft organiser is about the size of a large slice container. We picked it up at Tiny's Green Shed on Sunday for about $1.50. I say about because we had 3 things in the bundle for $3. I've never seen one like it before. I several of the small kind, but this one is a really good size.
It's already full of mending notions. Every op shopper needs a decent hand mending kit at the very least.
Saturday, January 28, 2012
ABC Radio National rebroadcast a program about yarn bombing from its now defunct Artworks program.
The broadcast date was 25 December so you may have missed it.
Anyway, it's worth a listen.
I don't partake of yarn bombing myself (there isn't enough time to knit "proper" things in nice yarn let alone bother with tags in crap yarn, because who would bother using good yarn for that?) but when I have encountered it in the wild, so to speak, it has delighted me.
ABC Radio National has rejigged a LOT of programs this week. Old favourites have gone for good and been replace by new programs. Unfortuantely, the new programs aren't available on iTunes yet and the old ones are really hard to find on the ABC website. I'm a wee bit frustrated that I'm not getting my RN book and arts fix via my preferred medium this week.
Also, photo pinched from RN website.
The broadcast date was 25 December so you may have missed it.
Anyway, it's worth a listen.
I don't partake of yarn bombing myself (there isn't enough time to knit "proper" things in nice yarn let alone bother with tags in crap yarn, because who would bother using good yarn for that?) but when I have encountered it in the wild, so to speak, it has delighted me.
ABC Radio National has rejigged a LOT of programs this week. Old favourites have gone for good and been replace by new programs. Unfortuantely, the new programs aren't available on iTunes yet and the old ones are really hard to find on the ABC website. I'm a wee bit frustrated that I'm not getting my RN book and arts fix via my preferred medium this week.
Also, photo pinched from RN website.
Friday, January 27, 2012
Settling in for a clatter
of keys, that is.
Well, in my case it was cursing at the keyboard of my Android, but that's not very picturesque.
At high noon today, 3 imaginary friends sat down for a cuppa and a natter.
Cindy2paw and Janette came up with the idea of enjoying a simultaneous cup of the new, limited edition Twinings Australian Afternoon Tea. They graciously let me crash the tea party.
We all brewed up a cup of KRudd's blend, took a bite of something sweet and used email to have a chat.
My tea brewed and served in a mug with a dash of soy milk, Ishoved down my greedy gob nibbled a slice of the last of the Christmas cakes.
The tea was very pleasant - a blend of Russian Caravan (my second favourite Twinings tea after Queen Mary), Orange Pekoe (third favourite Twinings tea) and Irish Breakfast (my go-to for a good strong brew). It had strength and depth of flavour with a dry finish. Definitely will be buying some. Confession time, I used a free sample we got with a weekend newspaper.
I gave up trying to knit - my hands were too occupied with keying and noshing. There was even some tea left in my mug 45 minutes after we began, so busy was I chatting with Janette and Cindy.
It was thoroughly enjoyable and not long enough - maybe we'll Skype it next time. Note to self. Learn how to use Skype.
Wonky photos courtesy of Blogger, which will recognise a cropped image but restores original orientation.
At high noon today, 3 imaginary friends sat down for a cuppa and a natter.
Cindy2paw and Janette came up with the idea of enjoying a simultaneous cup of the new, limited edition Twinings Australian Afternoon Tea. They graciously let me crash the tea party.
We all brewed up a cup of KRudd's blend, took a bite of something sweet and used email to have a chat.
My tea brewed and served in a mug with a dash of soy milk, I
The tea was very pleasant - a blend of Russian Caravan (my second favourite Twinings tea after Queen Mary), Orange Pekoe (third favourite Twinings tea) and Irish Breakfast (my go-to for a good strong brew). It had strength and depth of flavour with a dry finish. Definitely will be buying some. Confession time, I used a free sample we got with a weekend newspaper.
I gave up trying to knit - my hands were too occupied with keying and noshing. There was even some tea left in my mug 45 minutes after we began, so busy was I chatting with Janette and Cindy.
It was thoroughly enjoyable and not long enough - maybe we'll Skype it next time. Note to self. Learn how to use Skype.
Wonky photos courtesy of Blogger, which will recognise a cropped image but restores original orientation.
Thursday, January 26, 2012
Jammy
Op Shopping opportunities on a public holiday are limited, but we managed to get to both the Canberra tip shops today.
Bargains at both, some for us, some for gifts*.
Best buys of the day that we are keeping was a current (6 months to run) Entertainment Book with only the restaurant card and 3 of the vouchers missing.
It's aluminium so I can't use it for anything but jam. Condiments containing vinegar will pit the aluminum, so no chutneys or sauces, but it will do until we can afford a copper preserving pan. When that happens, I can die a happy and fulfilled preserver (shut up - you have a holy grail, too!).
These two items, as well as a few items chucked in (Tupperware wine goblet for our ever-expanding set, china noodle bowl for winter soups and stews at work and a souvenir placemat as a joke gift for a colleague) came to $10.
Speaking of tip shop finds, did you see what Misfits Vintage found at her tip shop recently? Pigeon pair to this find at Tiny's at Mugga Mugga a few years back.
*gifts of op-shopped items go to the cogniscenti only.
Bargains at both, some for us, some for gifts*.
Best buys of the day that we are keeping was a current (6 months to run) Entertainment Book with only the restaurant card and 3 of the vouchers missing.
and my longed for jam kettle.
It's aluminium so I can't use it for anything but jam. Condiments containing vinegar will pit the aluminum, so no chutneys or sauces, but it will do until we can afford a copper preserving pan. When that happens, I can die a happy and fulfilled preserver (shut up - you have a holy grail, too!).
These two items, as well as a few items chucked in (Tupperware wine goblet for our ever-expanding set, china noodle bowl for winter soups and stews at work and a souvenir placemat as a joke gift for a colleague) came to $10.
Speaking of tip shop finds, did you see what Misfits Vintage found at her tip shop recently? Pigeon pair to this find at Tiny's at Mugga Mugga a few years back.
*gifts of op-shopped items go to the cogniscenti only.
Sunday, January 15, 2012
Quilt
I can resist quite a few things, but hand crafted textiles at the tip shop are not among them.
Today's bargain for $3 is this modern quilt. It's machine pieced and quilted and hand-hemmed. It measures about 3m x 2m and is destined for a bed or wall in our next house.
Today's bargain for $3 is this modern quilt. It's machine pieced and quilted and hand-hemmed. It measures about 3m x 2m and is destined for a bed or wall in our next house.
Sunday, January 08, 2012
Knit Focus - Socks
As predicted the neon socks are finished. However a sick dog meant an unplanned trip to my place so I picked up another ball of sock yarn.
Simple socks in Lucy Neatby Celestial Merino Dream sock yarn in the Fiesta colourway.
This yarn has been in stash for a looooong time. Five Ferns brought it on her first trip Down Under in May 2007.
I knitted one skein for myself a few years ago and they are lovely. Not a pleasure in the hand as the yarn is shiny and not very elastic, but they bloom beautifully once knitted. But the colours are unbelievably beguiling and if they fade in a beguiling manner.
Saturday, January 07, 2012
Knit Focus - Cosy
This is the current cosy - a neck cosy. It's a bigger project than most of the cosies will be.
I started it in November in a moment of desperation - I was at TOF's, I'd completed a project and had nothing on the needles with me and a whole Sunday at my disposal.
This is why there is an emergency stash of sock yarn in my undies drawer. What I didn't have were needles of the correct size for socks so this project is a skinny scarf on 3mm needles.
The pattern is Autumn Leaves by Patricia Tan. It is a simple biased lace pattern which gives wonderful colour and movement and breaks up the self-striping sock yarn beautifully. It also looks lovely with the left over christmas sweets. I've knitted it intermittantly between projects or as a car passenger etc. It grows slowly.
I am bored as bat shit by it now and just want it done. It lives in my locker and I work on it for 20 minutes or so at lunch time. It should be finished any month now.
It will be about 3m long when done and as it curls like nothing else. I really hope it blocks flat.
There's more focus knitting this weekend because I forgot to pack an "at home" project for the weekend and only have simple socks with me. Socks last seen here. Yes, I am on the foot of the second sock and no I haven't replenished the emergency sock yarn stash. All that's in my undies drawer at the moment are undies.
Thursday, January 05, 2012
Seriously
Setting aside the abomination of choc chips in hot cross buns it's the 5th of January!
Perhaps they are getting in early for next Christmas?
Wednesday, January 04, 2012
Stash Focus
2011 saw a nett reduction of stash. I gave a huge amount away for a variety of charitable and other purposes but there was a fair bit come in, too.
So this year I get to enjoy some of it. So I'm joining Ann at Shades of Shetland (go admire her colourwork and her Westies) in a yarn diet (of sorts).
I'm not going to buy any yarn until I've knitted 2 proper garmentsfrom stash; either vests, jumpers or cardies.
I'm allowed to receive gifts, but not solicit gifts. Swaps are fine.
I'm allowed to buy a pattern if it's in my queue as of 1 January 2011, but not after.
I am allowed to buy necessary equipment but purchases need to be funded from extra income earned because this year's knitting budget is $0 - we have bigger fish to fry than my fibre obsession (I've been sorting out my sewing and knitting patterns - watch this space next week).
I am allowed get out of gaol free cards for the wool and fibre days at the Old Bus Depot Markets and if it's unbeatable op-shop bargain you know it's coming, but it needs to be in a project amount and an equivalent amount of yarn already in stash has to be removed. That should focus my mind a bit.
So what am I going to knit?
OUT AND ABOUT PROJECTS
So this year I get to enjoy some of it. So I'm joining Ann at Shades of Shetland (go admire her colourwork and her Westies) in a yarn diet (of sorts).
I'm not going to buy any yarn until I've knitted 2 proper garmentsfrom stash; either vests, jumpers or cardies.
I'm allowed to receive gifts, but not solicit gifts. Swaps are fine.
I'm allowed to buy a pattern if it's in my queue as of 1 January 2011, but not after.
I am allowed to buy necessary equipment but purchases need to be funded from extra income earned because this year's knitting budget is $0 - we have bigger fish to fry than my fibre obsession (I've been sorting out my sewing and knitting patterns - watch this space next week).
I am allowed get out of gaol free cards for the wool and fibre days at the Old Bus Depot Markets and if it's unbeatable op-shop bargain you know it's coming, but it needs to be in a project amount and an equivalent amount of yarn already in stash has to be removed. That should focus my mind a bit.
So what am I going to knit?
OUT AND ABOUT PROJECTS
- There is always a pair of standard socks on the needles for muscle-memory knitting. (stash yarn only)
- We have a year long fundraiser going on at work. The theme is '"cosy"and my colleagues (many of who are talented artists and crafters) are contributing raffle prizes. I'll be knitting cosies all year. These items will be knitted during lunch hours etc. so my colleagues can watch the progress and feel involved. (stash yarn only)
- I have a couple of WIPs to finish including a large blanket for the footy season (it's 50% done) and a shawl and a pair of kilt hose for TOF so they'll get worked on at home and one of those needs to be finished before I cast on a garment
- I would like a couple of vests and a cardigan or two and TOF would like a jumper. I'm not saying I'll finish his jumper because the only style we agree on is in a largely unobtainable pattern. I'll work on getting the pattern, then worry about the knitting. (stash yarn only)
Tuesday, January 03, 2012
Cornstalks
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| How was your New Year's Eve? Mine looked like this. |
Time was, reading was one of the things that defined me. One of the reasons I knit is because I can knit and read at the same time (rather than cross-stitch, embroidery or some other needlecraft I enjoyed).
Reading dropped off as caring for Mum became more demanding. I didn't have the brainspace or the time for someone else's story. For other carers books become a refuge but for me it wasn't so - there was always something else that needed to be done.
So I am becoming a reader again, or trying to. Over the Christmas break I read the third of Kate Grenville's books about the fictional Thornhill family in colonial Australia.
Sarah Thornhill is both the title and protagonist of the book. Sarah is the youngest child of William Thornhill, a transported convict and his wife, Sarah. She is a currency lass or cornstalk - the first generation of European children born in the colony of NSW. These books have their inception in Grenville's own family history.
When the first of the trilogy, The Secret River, was released, it caused a debate about fiction and history and Grenville has obviously emerged bruised from the engagement.
For me, both The Secret River and Sarah Thornton are obviously fiction (while being based on some family history). It is up to the reader to pursue the history and neither is presented as actual history.
The novel explores the issues of being rootless, of disposession and the disposessed, generational guilt and Reconciliation. The themes are very current and it seems to me rather blugeons the reader - it doesn't feel subtle. There is a definite agenda being pushed.
The book presents some stylistic issues. There is no indication of direct speech which really annoys me. Without quotation marks for speech I find myself having to think about whether the words are spoken or descriptive and it detracts from the meaning of the words if I'm worried about the construction.
Speaking of construction, does anyone know if toe-up sock knitting was current in the 1830s? Knitting appears in the hands of Sarah's sister who is reported as being half way up the leg of a stocking. It niggled but is a minor concern.
The second book of the trilogy, The Lieutenant, is in the pile beside my bed. The books are stand-alone and can be enjoyed singly or in any order. And they are very enjoyable. Grenville continues to be a favourite author. The Idea of Perfection (the 1999 Orange Prize winner) is one of my favourite novels.
Sunday, January 01, 2012
Focus 2012
The theme for this year is FOCUS.
2011 was difficult and focus was split, changed and generally did some weird folk dance I wasn't in control of.
2012 and the focus is back.
I will be focussing on getting back on track financially. 2011 saw budgets get very loose as the time to manage them was sucked up by caring emergencies and savings went to pay Rosies' vet bills etc. I've done the sums for this year. It's scary but we can do it.
I'll be focussing on some health issues. I started hydrotherapy late 2011 to assist with arthritis related pain. It's going well, and I will be spending more time in the pool and later the gym, to help with taking the strain off my joints.
Focus on enjoying what I have more: my miraculous relationship, my challenging family, my fortunate education; my possessions. I don't need more things, I need more focus.
2011 was difficult and focus was split, changed and generally did some weird folk dance I wasn't in control of.
2012 and the focus is back.
I will be focussing on getting back on track financially. 2011 saw budgets get very loose as the time to manage them was sucked up by caring emergencies and savings went to pay Rosies' vet bills etc. I've done the sums for this year. It's scary but we can do it.
I'll be focussing on some health issues. I started hydrotherapy late 2011 to assist with arthritis related pain. It's going well, and I will be spending more time in the pool and later the gym, to help with taking the strain off my joints.
Focus on enjoying what I have more: my miraculous relationship, my challenging family, my fortunate education; my possessions. I don't need more things, I need more focus.
Saturday, December 31, 2011
12 in 11 December Update
It's so unlikely that I'll buy anything today I thought I would get in early.
This month I finally found the dress I needed for the ball back in October. An actual proper formal frock in a daring bright red that fitted very nicely. So I bought it. The next ball is not until April 2013, but for $7 I'm prepared and who knows what fashion emergencies 2012 will bring.
I overspent my clothing allowance by 7 items (more than 50%) 19/12.
Not a brilliant result, but my goodness it was a fascinating experience. While still buying most items second hand (one retail purchase only and that an emergency funeral buy), I learned to focus on quality, cut and colour to make the most out of what was already in the wardrobe.
I really do have a capsule of basics now, at least for the cool weather.
I took the lessons I learned about cut in particular and have culled my sewing pattern library (Ravellers, look for a destash soon) to leave me with a handful of patterns that suit in styles I prefer to wear.
Despite failing at 12 in 11 I'm up for it again. Not because I like to fail, but because I like to try. These challenges teach me things about myself and assist in least making me better aware of my shortcomings even when they are not completely overcome. It helps keep me focussed and this year focus is particularly necessary.
There are 3 known items on the 2012 "to buy" list
This month I finally found the dress I needed for the ball back in October. An actual proper formal frock in a daring bright red that fitted very nicely. So I bought it. The next ball is not until April 2013, but for $7 I'm prepared and who knows what fashion emergencies 2012 will bring.
I overspent my clothing allowance by 7 items (more than 50%) 19/12.
Not a brilliant result, but my goodness it was a fascinating experience. While still buying most items second hand (one retail purchase only and that an emergency funeral buy), I learned to focus on quality, cut and colour to make the most out of what was already in the wardrobe.
I really do have a capsule of basics now, at least for the cool weather.
I took the lessons I learned about cut in particular and have culled my sewing pattern library (Ravellers, look for a destash soon) to leave me with a handful of patterns that suit in styles I prefer to wear.
Despite failing at 12 in 11 I'm up for it again. Not because I like to fail, but because I like to try. These challenges teach me things about myself and assist in least making me better aware of my shortcomings even when they are not completely overcome. It helps keep me focussed and this year focus is particularly necessary.
There are 3 known items on the 2012 "to buy" list
- a pair of replacement Mary Janes. Even by the redoubtable Jhay the Cobbler is unable to repair the last pair.
- an outfit for Junior's wedding in December. I may make the frock, but I'm going to keep a couple of items in reserve just in case I need to buy a dress and shoes for the wedding.
Tuesday, December 06, 2011
How I clutter my home
Monday, December 05, 2011
Looking Forward
Just because it's Summer now, doesn't mean I'm happy about it. Apart from stone fruit and skinny dipping, I don't like much about Summer.
While we were at Manuka Oval yesterday we checked out our latest investment. Seats in the members' stand for the three Greater Western Sydney Giants Australian Rules Football matches next year. It's as close as we will get ot a Canberra team in the AFL and we aren't going to miss out.
The Manuka Oval website doesn't have a detailed seating plan, so we had to book our tickets without knowing exactly where they were.
I'm sitting in one of our seats. The bag and hat are on the other.
Am I pleased? See for yourself.
Four rows from the highest point in the stand; on the aisle; only two people to bother us getting up and down; right on the left edge of the centre square; under the roofline. Fabulous!
Bring on Winter.
While we were at Manuka Oval yesterday we checked out our latest investment. Seats in the members' stand for the three Greater Western Sydney Giants Australian Rules Football matches next year. It's as close as we will get ot a Canberra team in the AFL and we aren't going to miss out.
The Manuka Oval website doesn't have a detailed seating plan, so we had to book our tickets without knowing exactly where they were.
I'm sitting in one of our seats. The bag and hat are on the other.
Am I pleased? See for yourself.
Four rows from the highest point in the stand; on the aisle; only two people to bother us getting up and down; right on the left edge of the centre square; under the roofline. Fabulous!
Bring on Winter.
Sunday, December 04, 2011
Signs of Summer
Despite the coolish day, it is summer. And summer means cricket.
Knitting a Citron with laceweight kid mohair at Manuka Oval.
Tasmania defeated NSW by four runs in a one day match.
Citron requires one more repeat and a ruffle and it, too, will be vanquished.
Knitting a Citron with laceweight kid mohair at Manuka Oval.
Tasmania defeated NSW by four runs in a one day match.
Citron requires one more repeat and a ruffle and it, too, will be vanquished.
Friday, December 02, 2011
12 in 11 November Update
I spent $20 at the St Vincent de Paul garage sale in November.
For me - a pair of new with tags (English brand marked at 30 pounds) $5; a pair of RM Williams riding boots $4; a pair of Kumfs heels $4. The boots and shoes are very lightly worn.
TOF scored a pair of Thomas Cook boots (brand new) $4, and a pair of polar fleece ski pants $3
The helpful ferret is a resident but going cheap.
So I added 3 items to bring my total of purchases to 18 for 2011.
Delighted by crochet
We saw much sheepy goodness in New Zealand. That was expected.
There's a sculptor living in Omarama who has added larger than life fish and sheep to the town's streetscapes.
There's a crocheter living in Omarama with a sense of humour.
The yarn-bombing was delightfully unexpected and well thought out. Thosed crocheted toes are stuffed with microfibre or similar.
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Get 'em while they are young
Fate?
Dunno about Australia, but I literally rode on the sheep's back!
My nanna and me September? 1967, "Sunnyglee", Jerilderie, NSW.
I was 20 months old. If you look closely, I'm wearing a handknitted bonnet and jumper. The corduroy overalls would have been cut down from a pair of trousers belonging to my grandfather or uncle. The jumper would have been reknitted from one of their old jumpers, too. Mum made all my clothes, mostly from recycled materials.
Mum and I lived with her parents while Dad served in Vietnam. My grandparents raised sheep and wheat at Jerilderie. There are always lambs that are hand-reared. The one I'm sitting on was probably one of the house lambs that year.
Saturday, November 26, 2011
Knit Couture?
Picked this up from the blog Damn You Alexis. It's a D&G apres ski blouse.
Surprisingly - I think this is cute. Certainly not for this little black duck to wear - the shape's all wrong - but cute.
I responded to the colour first, but the whimsy of the fair-isle print is very appealing.
Sunday, November 06, 2011
12 in 11 October update
The temptation to go all out this month because I've blown the challenge already was quite strong.
I resisted. Mostly.
My will power was not so steely as to withstand a pair of as new Birkenstocks for $1.50. I had to look a couple of times in case it was $15. All mine for less than the price of a bus ticket. I've never had Birks before - I may be grateful that the investment was so low.
Quota Used 16/12.
So in answer to Louisa's question - yes, I'll be keeping track.
I've learned that I really do wear 20% of my wardrobe 80% of the time, or at least something approaching it. I was very, very resistant to wearing some of the my clothes. My first instinct was to replace tired favourites with close replicas rather than use the other items. So I'm embracing that. Unused/resisted items during this challenge have been disposed of. The wardrobe is looking a bit minimal, but that's ok.
I've analysed what's left over so have a fair idea of my minimum needs and am developing a succession plan.
As I buy almost all of my clothes second hand, and am a difficult size, I give myself permission to acquire quality garmets to replace the already tatty or soon to be tatty as they are found. The one in one out rule will apply.
Tops for work are knit fabrics in the main. Buying them second hand means they usually only have one or two seasons in them. I will allow myself to buy the better quality tops when I see them in op-shops etc but I will confine purchases to fabrics and cuts which will last longer. In theory, a well-constructed garment in a natural fibre can be maintained for longer than one from a man-made fibre. Certainly fine woollen knit tops with hand-washing and regular depilling last years. It's not possible to successfully depill a standard poly-cotton t-shirt. I've tried.
Ditto, trousers and skirts. Ás I find suitable woollen or linen pants and skirts the synthetic blends will be retired.
Natural fibres are easier to over-dye than synthetics. Black linen and cotton tops which have greyed a little can be resurrected in a dye-bath.
Natural fibres also require less laundering as they "breathe" better than synthtic fibres. Synthetic and synthetic blend garments need washing every wear which increases their environmental impact in terms of electricity, chemical and water load, and they wear out sooner.
I am also committed to maintaining what I have rather than buying replacements. I've found a good cobbler. It isn't cheap to have shoes resoled or boots reinforced but if the item is good quality to begin with, it will stand a few repairs and it's still cheaper than buying the a replacement in an equivalent quality. And much, much more environmentally sustainable.
And if all this sounds a bit controlled and dull - boring black uniform with sturdy shoes - it would be if it weren't for accessories and I can knit or sew my own.
And I'm kind of tempted by trying for 12 in 12.
I resisted. Mostly.
My will power was not so steely as to withstand a pair of as new Birkenstocks for $1.50. I had to look a couple of times in case it was $15. All mine for less than the price of a bus ticket. I've never had Birks before - I may be grateful that the investment was so low.
Quota Used 16/12.
So in answer to Louisa's question - yes, I'll be keeping track.
I've learned that I really do wear 20% of my wardrobe 80% of the time, or at least something approaching it. I was very, very resistant to wearing some of the my clothes. My first instinct was to replace tired favourites with close replicas rather than use the other items. So I'm embracing that. Unused/resisted items during this challenge have been disposed of. The wardrobe is looking a bit minimal, but that's ok.
I've analysed what's left over so have a fair idea of my minimum needs and am developing a succession plan.
As I buy almost all of my clothes second hand, and am a difficult size, I give myself permission to acquire quality garmets to replace the already tatty or soon to be tatty as they are found. The one in one out rule will apply.
Tops for work are knit fabrics in the main. Buying them second hand means they usually only have one or two seasons in them. I will allow myself to buy the better quality tops when I see them in op-shops etc but I will confine purchases to fabrics and cuts which will last longer. In theory, a well-constructed garment in a natural fibre can be maintained for longer than one from a man-made fibre. Certainly fine woollen knit tops with hand-washing and regular depilling last years. It's not possible to successfully depill a standard poly-cotton t-shirt. I've tried.
Ditto, trousers and skirts. Ás I find suitable woollen or linen pants and skirts the synthetic blends will be retired.
Natural fibres are easier to over-dye than synthetics. Black linen and cotton tops which have greyed a little can be resurrected in a dye-bath.
Natural fibres also require less laundering as they "breathe" better than synthtic fibres. Synthetic and synthetic blend garments need washing every wear which increases their environmental impact in terms of electricity, chemical and water load, and they wear out sooner.
I am also committed to maintaining what I have rather than buying replacements. I've found a good cobbler. It isn't cheap to have shoes resoled or boots reinforced but if the item is good quality to begin with, it will stand a few repairs and it's still cheaper than buying the a replacement in an equivalent quality. And much, much more environmentally sustainable.
And if all this sounds a bit controlled and dull - boring black uniform with sturdy shoes - it would be if it weren't for accessories and I can knit or sew my own.
And I'm kind of tempted by trying for 12 in 12.
Sunday, October 16, 2011
12 in 11 September Update
Baby done a bad, bad thing.
Blew out the challenge in September while we were in NZ.
No defence, no excuses, just did.
Quota Used 15/12
Op shopping in a new country is fun. Some of the brands were familiar but not all of the specialist sizings that I look for. It was a bit of a test of my ability to assess quality and cut based on the garment rather than the label.
This challenge has led me to assess what it is I need in clothing and my preferences for colour and shape. If I couldn't just have it, I had to assess each item. It's a good skill to acquire and hone.
So, what did I get that was worth blowing the challenge for?
Knickers bought just before we left for NZ. These replace the daggies worn and abandoned in NZ.
Bra, new with tags from Save Mart in Invercargill. $15.
Hosiery - found 5 pairs of new in packets stockings and tights in op shops including electric blue stockings for an average $1.50 a pair. Given one pair of pantihose retail is $12, I'm a happy hosiery freak.
We left most of our travelling clothes and shoes in NZ, returning only with our "new" purchases and a change of shirt and undies. Fate handed us a woman of size at the caravan park the evening before our departure. She was in town to watch her brother play for the Fiji Rugby Team. She gladly took our clothes for her family and we were delighted they went to a welcoming home.
Since we've been back wardrobe culling continues with several bags full off to op shops as new items were washed and put away and the winter wardrobe turned over to spring and summer.
Blew out the challenge in September while we were in NZ.
No defence, no excuses, just did.
Quota Used 15/12
Op shopping in a new country is fun. Some of the brands were familiar but not all of the specialist sizings that I look for. It was a bit of a test of my ability to assess quality and cut based on the garment rather than the label.
This challenge has led me to assess what it is I need in clothing and my preferences for colour and shape. If I couldn't just have it, I had to assess each item. It's a good skill to acquire and hone.
So, what did I get that was worth blowing the challenge for?
- 1 pr Blundstone steel cap boots, new in box from Salvos $10 (we have some major landscaping and gardening ahead of us and these are perfect to protect my tootsies from falling pavers etc.)
- 1 pr strappy sandally heels to wear to this accursed ball $6 from Salvos.
- 2 jumpers; one is a tunic style that has seen some wear already and another in a henley style which has replaced my baggy saggy, pre-weightloss winter favourite (already gone to the op shop). Both are in green shades, one a light gumleaf olive, the other a bright kiwi green. Both are medium guage. $23 the pair from Save Mart.
- 1 moleskin shirt for football and outdoor wear next autumn/winter replacing the way too large pincord shirt I have been wearing for years. $6 Salvos.
- 1 jacket for work. I am expected to travel more for work in the next couple of years, so I picked up a dressier jacket in non-crushable knit. $20 Vinnies. Yes, a lot more than I usually pay but this is an excellent brand and fit and slips in the my mix and match wardrobe really well. Retail it would be about $200, so I'm pleased.
Knickers bought just before we left for NZ. These replace the daggies worn and abandoned in NZ.
Bra, new with tags from Save Mart in Invercargill. $15.
Hosiery - found 5 pairs of new in packets stockings and tights in op shops including electric blue stockings for an average $1.50 a pair. Given one pair of pantihose retail is $12, I'm a happy hosiery freak.
We left most of our travelling clothes and shoes in NZ, returning only with our "new" purchases and a change of shirt and undies. Fate handed us a woman of size at the caravan park the evening before our departure. She was in town to watch her brother play for the Fiji Rugby Team. She gladly took our clothes for her family and we were delighted they went to a welcoming home.
Since we've been back wardrobe culling continues with several bags full off to op shops as new items were washed and put away and the winter wardrobe turned over to spring and summer.
Friday, October 07, 2011
Bonnet
What 7am looked like yesterday.
Working on a commission to be delivered on Sunday. A soon to be born grandchild is in need of a bonnet and better-than-boottees socks.
The socks will take 6 hours to complete so I'm working on the bonnet first. The design and yarn was left to my discretion, as long as it was white. The vintage Patonyle (60% wool, 40% nylon in 25g balls) has been in stash for some time. It was purchased second-hand and I have 3 balls. The bonnet is going to take just over one ball and I'll get the socks out of the remainder of that ball. A lovely set for 50g of yarn.
The pattern is vintage Patons and written for for 3ply, but using smaller needles in a ribbed/lacy ribbed garment means sizing won't be an issue. This will fit from about 3mos on. As we don't know the gender of the baby, I'm figuring lemon ribbons for the ties. All materials are from stash.
Tuesday, September 06, 2011
Traditional Fathers' Day
I nearly burst a pfooffa valve the other night watching an advertisment. Can't remember what it was advertising, but the gist was "don't give Dad socks for Fathers' Day".
I am happy to report that TOF doesn't think socks are a naff present for Fathers' Day.
He loves his handknits and knows how much love they represent and appreciate that the animals cared enough to commission me to make them. He likes his new Wallabies jersey and the bottle of whiskey as well.
I am happy to report that TOF doesn't think socks are a naff present for Fathers' Day.
Thursday, September 01, 2011
12 in 11 August Update
Quota Used 10/12
I bought a frock for the ball in October. More a maxi than a formal frock, but for $6 from the Salvos it's long and floaty and will do. I need to take it in a bit, but will wait until we return from NZ.
Given the big freeze in NZ a couple of weeks ago, I bit the budgetary bullet and ordered a down jacket from Canada. I can't get one to fit here, and I've tried. Less than $200 including postage and I will be warm.
Exempt Items
The silk thermals I bought to wear in NZ come under the heading of underwear so they don't count.
I bought a frock for the ball in October. More a maxi than a formal frock, but for $6 from the Salvos it's long and floaty and will do. I need to take it in a bit, but will wait until we return from NZ.
Given the big freeze in NZ a couple of weeks ago, I bit the budgetary bullet and ordered a down jacket from Canada. I can't get one to fit here, and I've tried. Less than $200 including postage and I will be warm.
Exempt Items
The silk thermals I bought to wear in NZ come under the heading of underwear so they don't count.
Sunday, August 28, 2011
Treats
TOF hit the jackpot this week and brought home a lovely book - Simply Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free by Grace Cheetham. It's has some interesting takes on traditional treats and desserts as well as meal recipes. Between us, we can eat neither gluten, dairy, mushrooms nor beef. We don't really have a problem with meals, but treats, oh treats....
Today's treat is our take on Grace's chocolate and fig biscuits. As we couldn't find our stash of dried figs from last year's plunder of public fig trees in Canberra, we subbed dried apricots. The chocolate called for was a 70% cocoa solids, but we used Whittaker's 50% bitter sweet because it was open and is still dairy free.
Total win. The resulting biscuit was moist but not mushy and we got 15 biscuits. A darker chocolate would give a richer result and I can't wait to try it with figs.
Today's treat is our take on Grace's chocolate and fig biscuits. As we couldn't find our stash of dried figs from last year's plunder of public fig trees in Canberra, we subbed dried apricots. The chocolate called for was a 70% cocoa solids, but we used Whittaker's 50% bitter sweet because it was open and is still dairy free.
Total win. The resulting biscuit was moist but not mushy and we got 15 biscuits. A darker chocolate would give a richer result and I can't wait to try it with figs.
Friday, August 05, 2011
12 in 11 July update
Nothing at all to report this month. Nothing new came in either by purchase or by gift.
QUOTA USED 8/12
Not really wanted much, although we have a ball to go to in October, and I have nothing to wear. I got rid of all the evening wear when I lost weight and it's the last thing to be replaced.
Finding a ball gown is impossible and I haven't the inclination to sew. I suspect it will be cocktail length rather than formal length this time around.
While I was on leave in June I threw a few pale and/or stained items into a dye bath. I now have several indigo coloured revamps - just like new clothes. Hope to turn a few of my navy shoes black this month as I've had to get rid of some old favourites recently and the work shoe situation is getting dire.
QUOTA USED 8/12
Not really wanted much, although we have a ball to go to in October, and I have nothing to wear. I got rid of all the evening wear when I lost weight and it's the last thing to be replaced.
Finding a ball gown is impossible and I haven't the inclination to sew. I suspect it will be cocktail length rather than formal length this time around.
While I was on leave in June I threw a few pale and/or stained items into a dye bath. I now have several indigo coloured revamps - just like new clothes. Hope to turn a few of my navy shoes black this month as I've had to get rid of some old favourites recently and the work shoe situation is getting dire.
Friday, July 01, 2011
12 in 11 May and June Updates
Shitty couple of months and I did not resort to retail or op-shop therapy.
QUOTA USED:
I bought a pair of fake pony skin leopart print pumps late in May. Brand new Kumfs for $20 at Vinnies.
I followed up with a dress in June to wear to my mother's funeral. Half price but retail.
Quota used 8/12.
EXEMPT ITEMS ACQUIRED:
2 prs pantyhose 30% off at DJs.
2 bras on 30% off at Target. Still looking for another couple and badly need undies.
12 summer t-shirts. New t-shirts cleared from Mum's cupboard.
5 pairs hand-knitted socks. Socks I knitted for Mum which I have now reclaimed.
Jacket for gardening in, gift from TOF.
Cotton cardie/cover up thing for work, gift from TOF.
QUOTA USED:
I bought a pair of fake pony skin leopart print pumps late in May. Brand new Kumfs for $20 at Vinnies.
I followed up with a dress in June to wear to my mother's funeral. Half price but retail.
Quota used 8/12.
EXEMPT ITEMS ACQUIRED:
2 prs pantyhose 30% off at DJs.
2 bras on 30% off at Target. Still looking for another couple and badly need undies.
12 summer t-shirts. New t-shirts cleared from Mum's cupboard.
5 pairs hand-knitted socks. Socks I knitted for Mum which I have now reclaimed.
Jacket for gardening in, gift from TOF.
Cotton cardie/cover up thing for work, gift from TOF.
Wednesday, June 08, 2011
Packing up
I am writing this from Mum's hospital room. Yep, again.
This is her third hospitalisation this year. I am waiting for the medical staff to finish their meeting with the nursing, physiotherapy and social work staff who are deciding Mum's fate.
As soon as a place is available she will be moved to respite care, pending a nursing home. It's not going down well with Mum, although she's so sore and tired at the moment the fight isn't really there.
This morning before coming to the hospital, I started looking at the house with an eye to packing it up. Fortunately Mum is a neat freak so it's not going to be a task like on the tv show "Hoarders" as a friend on Facebook imagined. It's just going to be emotionally difficult and physically challenging.
The kitchen and linen cupboard look like the best places to start. Fewer items of sentimental value and I cleared out the extraneous from the linen cupboard in January. I'm going for easy wins in the first few days.
The craft stuff, too, has to be dealt with. Again, I've culled this fairly well in the last six months. Moving things on will be easy enough - I know lots of people who can use craft supplies - but there will be things I want to keep such as the length of tartan in the family pattern bought in Scotland and a gift from a dear family friend (long dead); the Brussels lace bought for me by my grandmother for my wedding dress (poor deluded but well-meaning woman); and the vintage vyellas and batistes. I can't and won't keep it all, but some of it will come home.
This is her third hospitalisation this year. I am waiting for the medical staff to finish their meeting with the nursing, physiotherapy and social work staff who are deciding Mum's fate.
As soon as a place is available she will be moved to respite care, pending a nursing home. It's not going down well with Mum, although she's so sore and tired at the moment the fight isn't really there.
This morning before coming to the hospital, I started looking at the house with an eye to packing it up. Fortunately Mum is a neat freak so it's not going to be a task like on the tv show "Hoarders" as a friend on Facebook imagined. It's just going to be emotionally difficult and physically challenging.
The kitchen and linen cupboard look like the best places to start. Fewer items of sentimental value and I cleared out the extraneous from the linen cupboard in January. I'm going for easy wins in the first few days.
The craft stuff, too, has to be dealt with. Again, I've culled this fairly well in the last six months. Moving things on will be easy enough - I know lots of people who can use craft supplies - but there will be things I want to keep such as the length of tartan in the family pattern bought in Scotland and a gift from a dear family friend (long dead); the Brussels lace bought for me by my grandmother for my wedding dress (poor deluded but well-meaning woman); and the vintage vyellas and batistes. I can't and won't keep it all, but some of it will come home.
Saturday, May 21, 2011
Green Tomato Sauce
We were the grateful recipients of several loads of green tomatoes this year. Just as well, our entire tomato yield was 3 ripe tomatoes and a balancing amount of green ones.
I keep forgetting where we get our recipes from so this will be the first in a series of posts recording what we made, where it came from and any deviations from the original recipe. I probably should have recorded yield etc, but I didn't.
RECIPE: Green Tomato Sauce
SOURCE: The Australian Women's Weekly Home Library. The Book of Preserves. Australian Consolidate Press, 1990. p. 106.
DEVIATION 1: used our own red wine vinegar instead of brown vinegar - softer, sweeter, more complex flavour as result.
DEVIATION 2: in second batch added a couple of sliced green chillis.
NEXT TIME: Add more chilli.
I keep forgetting where we get our recipes from so this will be the first in a series of posts recording what we made, where it came from and any deviations from the original recipe. I probably should have recorded yield etc, but I didn't.
RECIPE: Green Tomato Sauce
SOURCE: The Australian Women's Weekly Home Library. The Book of Preserves. Australian Consolidate Press, 1990. p. 106.
DEVIATION 1: used our own red wine vinegar instead of brown vinegar - softer, sweeter, more complex flavour as result.
DEVIATION 2: in second batch added a couple of sliced green chillis.
NEXT TIME: Add more chilli.
Thursday, May 05, 2011
12 in 11 April Update
This month I appreciate, very clearly, the value of thrift.
With one of the dogs requiring several surgeries and associated costs, having savings to fall back on was immensely comforting. Doesn't make parting with more money than I've ever spent on anything apart from real estate any easier, but it is comforting.
I'm also glad of the extra discipline the 12 in 11 challenge has given me. In order to replenish the savings, I'll need to be more careful than ever, and as op-shopped clothing is a particular indulgence of mine, this challenge is now an economic necessity.
QUOTA USED:
1 fine wool black jumper (Maggie T brand for the Aussies). I know I'm a knitter, and that's what makes it possible for me to know that this fine knit in a quality brand was an absolute bargain at $4. Mixes and matches with my work wardrobe for winter layers and cared for properly will see many more seasons.
Quota used 6/12. Half my quota used in 4 months. Sounds a lot but is less than I'd buy on a good op-shopping day normally. I'm happy with my progress.
EXEMPT ITEMS ACQUIRED:
Last year I bought a man's wool and silk blazer at Salvos. It fit well around the hips and was a good length in the body, but the shoulders were too wide and the sleeves too long. I'm a good home dressmaker, but I'm know my limitations and resetting the sleeves in a lined jacket of this quality is beyond them. I had a local tailor recut and reset the sleeves. The jacket cost me $25 plus $85 for the tailoring. $110 for a tailored to fit wool and silk jacket that looks great with jeans and boots to dress up a casual outfit. Love it. Worth it.
Creating has been for other people this month and will continue for a while yet.
With one of the dogs requiring several surgeries and associated costs, having savings to fall back on was immensely comforting. Doesn't make parting with more money than I've ever spent on anything apart from real estate any easier, but it is comforting.
I'm also glad of the extra discipline the 12 in 11 challenge has given me. In order to replenish the savings, I'll need to be more careful than ever, and as op-shopped clothing is a particular indulgence of mine, this challenge is now an economic necessity.
QUOTA USED:
1 fine wool black jumper (Maggie T brand for the Aussies). I know I'm a knitter, and that's what makes it possible for me to know that this fine knit in a quality brand was an absolute bargain at $4. Mixes and matches with my work wardrobe for winter layers and cared for properly will see many more seasons.
Quota used 6/12. Half my quota used in 4 months. Sounds a lot but is less than I'd buy on a good op-shopping day normally. I'm happy with my progress.
EXEMPT ITEMS ACQUIRED:
Last year I bought a man's wool and silk blazer at Salvos. It fit well around the hips and was a good length in the body, but the shoulders were too wide and the sleeves too long. I'm a good home dressmaker, but I'm know my limitations and resetting the sleeves in a lined jacket of this quality is beyond them. I had a local tailor recut and reset the sleeves. The jacket cost me $25 plus $85 for the tailoring. $110 for a tailored to fit wool and silk jacket that looks great with jeans and boots to dress up a casual outfit. Love it. Worth it.
Creating has been for other people this month and will continue for a while yet.
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Thanks for all the fish
Thanks to everyone for the kind wishes. Rosie is out of hospital(s) and appears to be on the mend. We are waiting to see what the weekend will bring but are very hopeful.
I won't be around much for a while and the seven things challenge has been put on hold.
Mum's been in hospital and is out now but requires a little more care at the moment and another family member is very unwell and I need to be present for the family and not worrying about inconsequential things like my clutter.
Everything will be fine, I just need to concentrate on the family right now.
Back soon xxx
I won't be around much for a while and the seven things challenge has been put on hold.
Mum's been in hospital and is out now but requires a little more care at the moment and another family member is very unwell and I need to be present for the family and not worrying about inconsequential things like my clutter.
Everything will be fine, I just need to concentrate on the family right now.
Back soon xxx
Tuesday, April 05, 2011
Monday, April 04, 2011
Seven Things Week 21
Calming down on the "ins" after the last couple of weeks.
IN
1 porcupine quill to use as a shawl pin GIFT
2 DVDS. Popped in to buy a gift, ended up with a copy of Don Juan De Marco for $7 and something else for TOF. Johnny Depp films under $10 are part of the collection development policy.
1 book. Went to Lincraft for fabric dye. No dye but ended up with Naughty Needles from the sale table for $8. Impulse buy fail.
OUT
2 cup top coffee filter holders RECYCLING
1 glass coffee flask RECYCLING
1 plastic brooch RECYLING
1 old bag strap BIN
2 back packs OP SHOP
7 video recordings OP SHOP
1 skirt OP SHOP
1 jacket OP SHOP
1 pr jeans OP SHOP
1 shirt OP SHOP
1 riding helment OP SHOP
SIAA
2 pairs socks for gift giving.
IN
1 porcupine quill to use as a shawl pin GIFT
2 DVDS. Popped in to buy a gift, ended up with a copy of Don Juan De Marco for $7 and something else for TOF. Johnny Depp films under $10 are part of the collection development policy.
1 book. Went to Lincraft for fabric dye. No dye but ended up with Naughty Needles from the sale table for $8. Impulse buy fail.
OUT
2 cup top coffee filter holders RECYCLING
1 glass coffee flask RECYCLING
1 plastic brooch RECYLING
1 old bag strap BIN
2 back packs OP SHOP
7 video recordings OP SHOP
1 skirt OP SHOP
1 jacket OP SHOP
1 pr jeans OP SHOP
1 shirt OP SHOP
1 riding helment OP SHOP
SIAA
2 pairs socks for gift giving.
IN 4
OUT 19
NETT OUT 15
SIAA 2
Friday, April 01, 2011
12 in 11 March Update
End of the first quarter and tracking a bit high.
With the change of seasons, though, comes a reckoning in the wardrobe. I'm pretty ok for casual gear, but my work wardrobe was a little low and the going out clothes very patchy. That's fixed now.
Also, the planned sewing didn't happen. I need to get back into a routine with the sewing machine. I'm incredibly proud of my discernment in shopping, though. I've brought home in three months what would have come home in a day previously.
QUOTA USED:
I picked up fine wool blend charcoal grey trousers and skirt. Quality fabric and well designed, cut and made garments. The trousers (Lisa Ho) set me back $5 and the skirt (Basque - the Myer larger sizes label) $2. I couldn't leave either behind at that price. I have also culled a lot of tatty garments from last winter's wardrobe, so no nett gain; a nett loss in fact.
Then there was the black stretch satin evening skirt for $2.50. I was missing a black evening skirt or pants. The purchase of this one skirt means I have five going out outfits. We don't go out much, but it's good to know I have options when we do.
Running total 5/12
EXEMPT ITEMS ACQUIRED:
GIFTS
1 dress. TSS bought it for me on the sly but I was going to buy it anyway. A black and white spotty sun dress in vintage style that fitted for $3, you bet it was coming home with me. Although it's not outstanding quality, it is well designed and matched all the other criteria for inclusion in the wardrobe where there is a lack of fab and fun frocks. I would not have been able to make this - no patterns and the fabric would be difficult to source and certainly not for $3.
CREATED
1 pair socks. Created from the scraps of other hand-knitted socks. C'mon- triple bonus points on this one?
1 pair socks. Yarn recycled from jumper TOF bought at an op shop for $1. (I''ll get at least 6 prs of socks from this jumper).
OTHER EXEMPT
There was an attempt to buy new underwear, but bra shopping when Target had a 30% off sale ended in a mixture of rage and self-loathing. Of course there was nothing left in my size in the one style they sell that I can wear in the colour I wanted (black - not exactly unusual). Plenty of all the other sizes and one to fit in granny beige. What does this tell you Target? OK, not quite calmed down yet. Nothing purchased.
My only pair of summer sandals died in January. I replaced them with a pair from the Vinnies Monster Sale (brand new) for $3 and added a pair of new pair summer sports shoes for another $3. I've decided to exempt these as they are replacements / necessary exercise equipment.
ADDED TO THE SAVINGS JAR
Nothing added and while I came close a couple of times I resisted all but the good quality gear that coordinates with the current wardrobe.
With the change of seasons, though, comes a reckoning in the wardrobe. I'm pretty ok for casual gear, but my work wardrobe was a little low and the going out clothes very patchy. That's fixed now.
Also, the planned sewing didn't happen. I need to get back into a routine with the sewing machine. I'm incredibly proud of my discernment in shopping, though. I've brought home in three months what would have come home in a day previously.
QUOTA USED:
I picked up fine wool blend charcoal grey trousers and skirt. Quality fabric and well designed, cut and made garments. The trousers (Lisa Ho) set me back $5 and the skirt (Basque - the Myer larger sizes label) $2. I couldn't leave either behind at that price. I have also culled a lot of tatty garments from last winter's wardrobe, so no nett gain; a nett loss in fact.
Then there was the black stretch satin evening skirt for $2.50. I was missing a black evening skirt or pants. The purchase of this one skirt means I have five going out outfits. We don't go out much, but it's good to know I have options when we do.
Running total 5/12
EXEMPT ITEMS ACQUIRED:
GIFTS
1 dress. TSS bought it for me on the sly but I was going to buy it anyway. A black and white spotty sun dress in vintage style that fitted for $3, you bet it was coming home with me. Although it's not outstanding quality, it is well designed and matched all the other criteria for inclusion in the wardrobe where there is a lack of fab and fun frocks. I would not have been able to make this - no patterns and the fabric would be difficult to source and certainly not for $3.
CREATED
1 pair socks. Created from the scraps of other hand-knitted socks. C'mon- triple bonus points on this one?
1 pair socks. Yarn recycled from jumper TOF bought at an op shop for $1. (I''ll get at least 6 prs of socks from this jumper).
OTHER EXEMPT
There was an attempt to buy new underwear, but bra shopping when Target had a 30% off sale ended in a mixture of rage and self-loathing. Of course there was nothing left in my size in the one style they sell that I can wear in the colour I wanted (black - not exactly unusual). Plenty of all the other sizes and one to fit in granny beige. What does this tell you Target? OK, not quite calmed down yet. Nothing purchased.
My only pair of summer sandals died in January. I replaced them with a pair from the Vinnies Monster Sale (brand new) for $3 and added a pair of new pair summer sports shoes for another $3. I've decided to exempt these as they are replacements / necessary exercise equipment.
ADDED TO THE SAVINGS JAR
Nothing added and while I came close a couple of times I resisted all but the good quality gear that coordinates with the current wardrobe.
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