things that make me happy

feeling good about what I write

finishing a project (in anything)

scrummy yarn

the sound of rain or the ocean

sunny days

and my newest one:

blocking mats!

Ok, so obviously this isn't a complete list or anything, but hey, this isn't the place to write a book, right?

Blocking mats. Thank you KnitPicks! I'm also the proud new owner of a KP yarn ball winder. Seriously, at that price, why wouldn't I get one?? The mats are also well priced and they interlock nicely. I've got some of them in use right now with the Not Quite Straight Scarf.



I think the blocking should help with the length of it--it was rather on the short side since I used only one skein of Medicolor (sock yarn). But, it's a spring scarf to be worn in SoCal; who'd want something bulky? I've got it blocked out to about 5 feet long and 5 1/4 inches wide. Even better? Yet more stash yarn used. Woot! I must admit I do like using it up. What's even better is that I have projects planned for a goodly portion of the stash, which should keep me busy for most of the year. Of course, that doesn't mean I don't look. Or haven't bought more. But anything I have bought has been for a specific project (like the Knit Picks Comfy I just got for the Rusted Root top) and not because I've given in to Yarn Temptation. This is good!

I may, however, be revisiting some of my old FOs and reclaiming the yarn. The shrug I made for my brother's wedding (very pretty but will probably never wear it again) and my cabled hug, which I love!, need attention. I used Debbie Bliss Cashmerino Aran on the wedding shrug and it feels like such a waste to leave that nice yarn in something I won't use again. And the cabled hug. Ugh. I tried to fix the fit of it a few weeks ago and completely made it worse. So, I think I'll tear it apart and reknit it. That is something I wear, and would wear even more if I was happier with the fit. Luckily, it's a fast knit and I have a new shiny yarn winder I can use. Mweheee!

Incidentally, I'm sure you've all seen the new Knitty by now. Shipwreck? I think I may just possibly be using this as a prize for finishing my dissertation. So, I shall be saving my yarn pennies and ogling the carrot/pattern for now. Aside from the pattern itself, the name appealed to me. Total nerd connection--Margaret Fuller died in a shipwreck--makes it more appropriate for a dissertation prize then, doncha think? *g*

Next up? More socks and probably the Leaf Top Kimono. I've also got to shop the stash for some yarn for the Half-Blood Prince KAL! Yaquina Bay is also coming along nicely. I'm knitting it top down with some color pops thrown in for interest. Now if only I could be happier with my noncolorwork skillz.