tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-102274932011-04-22T11:22:29.672+12:00The life and times of one girl: working, knitting, and trying to sort out a wedding without becoming a bridezilla.The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.comBlogger2541100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-75275533295499971392007-01-28T22:30:00.000+13:002007-01-28T22:34:44.128+13:00

We've finally started our new blog, and while it's still very brief, it's finally there.So this is my final anonyblogging post.If you'd like to visit, I'd love to see you there. You'll find out my real name, who The Trouser is, and eventually even see photos of us!So for the final time, thank you for your compassion, support, words of wisdom and excellent sense of humour. It's been... quite

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1168383153205365632007-01-10T11:36:00.000+13:002007-01-10T11:52:33.276+13:00

I'm still here! Not blogging so much, but still here.The new blog - our joint blog, which will be an interesting experience - is not yet ready. I'd like The Trouser to come up with a nifty template, including a photo (all will be revealed). Yet despite his enthusiasm for the occasional dabble in web design, and his overwhelming enthusiasm for his new camera, no dice.Enh. We'll get there.Meanwhile

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1166649028937955172006-12-21T09:52:00.000+13:002006-12-21T10:10:29.100+13:00

I haven't been blogging much because, honestly, I haven't had much I've wanted to say.It's been a rough few weeks, and what we've learned most of all is that old habits die very hard.I've been questioning my feelings and reactions so much that I'm having a hard time letting myself just feel. For me, it's important to know if my feelings of hurt/ anger/ frustration are justified, or if they're an

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1165955611972242022006-12-13T09:23:00.000+13:002006-12-13T09:33:31.990+13:00

and then it got less bad. I'd say better, but it isn't better per se, it's just less dire.The Trouser and I understand each other better than ever, and have an even closer relationship.My parents and I (and The Trouser, for that matter) do not.We (The Trouser and I) thought I was over some major hurt from my childhood, but it turns out I'm not, despite our best efforts. And this affects how I

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1165349456756895852006-12-06T08:41:00.000+13:002006-12-06T09:13:39.673+13:00

We've worked really hard on our wedding. The hardest bit has been keeping the respective families happy: sufficiently involved, but not required to do any actual work.Getting the invitation list together was really hard. We asked each family for a list of people they'd like to invite, then combined the lists with ours, and then mad some preliminary decisions based on criteria we agreed

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1165272922001932432006-12-05T11:49:00.000+13:002006-12-05T11:55:22.133+13:00

I don't seem to have much to say these days. Or, I have a lot to say, but it's a bit negative.Like how my father spontaneously invited his half-cousin (whom he hasn't seen since he was a kid - and whom no one in my family has met, despite living in the same country for 21 years) to our wedding. After we'd all discussed the invitation process at length, and agreed on no random invitations from

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1164657756379297202006-11-28T08:58:00.000+13:002006-11-28T09:02:37.183+13:00

Our wedding website's comments got hacked: removed, and replaced with a "hacked by" signature.What a.... meanie!(Good self-control there, Skirt, we're all proud of you for not calling the guy an asshat or a fucktard... Oh. D'oh!)But really - I mean, it's a freaking *wedding* website! Hardly a controversial topic, or something anyone other than us and our families and friends should care about, so

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1164334327497282902006-11-24T14:51:00.000+13:002006-11-28T09:21:43.383+13:00

I've been making progress of sorts in a few parts of my life, so I figure it's time to share.(ahhh, sharing)Most important progress prize goes to my knitting. I've finished my River for my grandmother, and will block it this weekend. This is well in advance of my deadline.I've also managed to knit it well (well, I *think* I have). Compared to my first, moderately flawed River, the new one is a

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1164249519445240952006-11-23T15:34:00.000+13:002006-11-23T15:38:39.470+13:00

(very recently)- Always make sure you have your keys in your bag before you leave the house. Especially if you need said keys to access the building, and the other key-holders work further away from home than you.- Never depend on the building manager being around when you need him.- Be nice to your co-workers, so they will lend you their car to drive home to drop off the set of keys you

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1163979672747609302006-11-20T12:26:00.000+13:002006-11-20T12:41:12.876+13:00

We celebrated Thanksgiving early this year. A good family friend was off to Sydney for radiotherapy on Sunday morning, so we gathered for the traditional feast on Saturday night.(For those of you who don't know, we celebrate this because we're transplanted Americans. But not the Republican kind. Honest.)By "traditional", I mean turkey, stuffing (not actually stuffed in the bird, made separately,

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1163725005540849782006-11-17T13:39:00.000+13:002006-11-17T13:56:45.606+13:00

It's cliched, but can you believe it's mid-November already?I know where the year has gone (work, some knitting, waaaay too much tv, yet more work) but it has gone very fast.We're starting to get into our "lasts" now - it really is the final countdown. To the end of work, our wedding, and our move.I'm beginning to feel the teensiest bit sad. Last birthday has been had, last Thanksgiving is coming

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1163102882805702972006-11-10T08:53:00.000+13:002006-11-10T09:08:03.006+13:00

On an international front: no more Rumsfeld, and Democrats in the US Houses. I hope Rumsfeld's replacement isn't a giant jackass, but he's been appointed by Bush, so I don't hold out much hope.I'm sure my US relatives are largely despairing. This is because (hold your breath, dirty secret about to be revealed) most of them are Republicans. One of them is an ex-oil man who donates very, very large

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1162936259117539412006-11-08T14:48:00.000+13:002006-11-08T14:55:38.633+13:00

I've been reading a great new blog that Violet recommended. OK, it's not new per se, but new-to-me.And so far, my favourite bit is the post on the girl who crapped in the bushes on the third date.If you read the comments, you'll see that I am grossed out by this. Bathroom comments ("knicker licker", for example) are not third date comments in my book.In fact, The Trouser and I lived together for

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1162929223809707752006-11-08T08:39:00.000+13:002006-11-08T08:53:44.140+13:00

So yesterday was Melbourne Cup day.In my office, it means someone running a sweepstakes, and everyone who's around gathering to drink wine, eat chips and watch the race.The sweepstakes is run by the most junior employee (who also puts up the Christmas decorations). Last year, they didn't do this - they asked a slightly less junior employee, on the grounds that she was familiar with gambling due

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1162854782975432992006-11-07T12:07:00.000+13:002006-11-07T12:23:55.200+13:00

My nails. (Quite blurry, and my hands don't usually look so pink, but you get the general gist.)The lovely and wayyyyyyyyyy overpriced yarn. Knitworld, charging me $10 for a 50gm package you send via regular mail is highway robbery. I won't be ordering from you ever again. Seriously. River's first detail shot, with 2 days' worth of knitting. 2 days' worth of knitting later, I'd done just over

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1162410855409750312006-11-03T11:07:00.000+13:002006-11-03T11:15:59.456+13:00

I'm still having trouble putting photos in - instead of simply freezing up as I upload the pics, they upload but don't insert. Guess I'll have t try later... Again...I've always been the "bad news before good", "dirty work before fun" kind of person, so let's start with the lows...Lows- I've had the same snotty, coughing, yucky cold for 4 weeks now. I'm really, really sick of it.- When we saw the

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1162413182712153392006-11-02T09:31:00.000+13:002006-11-02T09:33:02.730+13:00

Will you please let me upload images? I have two lovely, (moderately) interesting posts all ready to go, save the images - which are integral to the post.Are you complaining about the very amateur quality of my photography (The Trouser was at yoga), or is it a more general refusal to load all photos?

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1161903793265390752006-10-27T16:05:00.000+13:002006-10-27T16:12:58.033+13:00

Work aside, lots of things have been going on in our lives recently.KnittingI've created and completed a beautiful Forecast cardigan for my mother's birthday, which she loves. I still need to get her to wear it to take a photo...I've started another beaded cardigan - Martha from Rowan 37. It's cotton and with over 1,700 beads... I've done the 2 sleeves and am already thoroughly sick of beads.I am

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1161902969992726282006-10-27T11:45:00.000+13:002006-10-27T11:49:30.026+13:00

The news I was waiting for was finally announced a couple of days ago.The nasty boss is leaving... in about 7 weeks.It isn't the immediate exit that would have made us all a lot happier. It also isn't the "right" way to do things - the [insert name of fancy consulting firm here] way is to leave within the week.But she will be going.Not too longer after that, I had a meeting with her boss, to

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1161647375050962832006-10-24T12:46:00.000+13:002006-10-24T12:49:35.070+13:00

In the course of normal speech, I don't usually call people "bitch".(Though during a family weekend I got my mother to refer to me and The Trouser as her "bitches and hos" several times, to my sister-in-law's great amusement. Faux-gangster-speak is fun!)Last post, I was a little bit upset.I'll try harder with the potty mouth, honest.And I'm expecting a development in the offending area (work, not

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1161220720010411382006-10-19T14:15:00.000+13:002006-10-19T14:18:40.040+13:00

I've gone on about it here before, and I am so sick of it that I can't even be bothered to link back to the relevant entries - my boss is the bullying bitch from hell.On Tuesday she yanked me in her office to berate me for my allegedly poor attitude and lack of commitment. Then she told me I should consider if I wanted to stay for the next "six weeks or whatever".It's three months, bitch. You

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1161136230636803372006-10-18T14:48:00.000+13:002006-10-18T14:52:01.296+13:00

Open-mindedness.Ireland, you're lovely. I can't wait to get to you!

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1161050546708746202006-10-17T15:01:00.000+13:002006-10-17T15:02:26.723+13:00

I would've blogged last week, but I was stopped by a sore throat, high temperature, litres of mucus, and a lack of desire to do much other than watch or read trash.Sorry about that. I'm still snotty, but I'm back.

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1160017034839683692006-10-05T15:54:00.000+13:002006-10-05T15:57:14.856+13:00

I had some M&Ms today - regular/plain - and they tasted... well, funny. A little pukey, almost.I know there are rumours that American chocolate tastes pukey, but I checked - they were made in Australia.It's okay, the funny over-sweetness and general lack of depth (which, together, combine to make a distinctive "pukey" taste) didn't stop me eating nearly the whole 55g package.But I won't buy them

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1159996062656155842006-10-05T10:01:00.000+13:002006-10-05T10:09:28.976+13:00

I just found out that my grandmother was hurt. She's doing ok, but an early-morning fall and a fracture were involved.How did I find out? From my cousin's blog.I'm not close with the cousin - depsite visiting the States numerous times in the past 17 years, she was always too busy to see any of us. So the last time I saw here I was about 11. Most of what I now know about her is from her blog, plus

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1159904822086989382006-10-04T08:42:00.000+13:002006-10-04T08:47:02.196+13:00

I discovered that Starbucks has introduced the Pumpkin Spice latte to NZ recently.There are a lot of things wrong with the timing and marketing of it... Rather than repeat them here, read my rant at Starbucks Gossip.That said, the syrup I tasted was pretty good - a little like pumpkin pie, but as a syrup. Not being a huge coffee fan, I'm unlikely to order the latte - but I might try it chai-style

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1159762387425273412006-10-02T17:07:00.000+13:002006-10-02T17:13:07.443+13:00

It's been awhile since I've posted about the wedding plans, which are coming on fairly well. New developments are:- We have dresses for the brides- and groomsmaids. They should arrive in Auckland before Xmas, which means some intensive knitting to get the lace wraps ready in time.- We have a car, so I'll turn up to get married.- We're meeting a potential celebrant on the weekend, and if we like

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1159391571173840072006-09-28T09:04:00.000+12:002006-09-28T09:12:51.196+12:00

...there's a car that's dangerously overheated.Picture this: you're driving along, in a hurry to get to the bridal shop where your brides- and groomsmaid dresses are being ordered. Because they won't take your credit card details over the phone (and, let's face it, the person on the phone sounds like a moron anyway), you have to get there to pay. And if you don't pay today, you might not get the

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1159307150601777332006-09-27T09:32:00.000+12:002006-09-27T09:45:50.820+12:00

After nearly a month on hiatus, I think I'm ready to be back blogging.I'd hoped that the time out would have allowed me to gain some perspective on my life and how I deal with it. I'm not sure that I have gained this, but there's nothing like a self-imposed ban on blogging to make you think of all kinds of interesting things to blog about!It's been a really hard few weeks for both The Trouser and

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1157319628106499822006-09-04T09:20:00.000+12:002006-09-04T09:40:28.326+12:00

I haven't been the most prolific blogger recently, and here's why: I'm having a rough time.Work has been hell on wheels recently. New, horrible, irresponsible, unreasonable boss whose own manager won't pull her in line. The whole team is demotivated, demoralised, and keen for her to leave.The wedding planning has been pulling up all kinds of issues related to The Trouser's sister and her nasty

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1156886125930984222006-08-30T09:11:00.000+12:002006-08-30T09:15:25.980+12:00

I feel siiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiick.I've been feeling a cold coming on for ages now, but my super-charged immune system (thanks to three smelly, dirty brothers) has been fighting it off well. Well, mostly. When I got tired I could feel the lurgy creeping up on me, but with a little sleep it seemed to be kept at bay.But today, I feel dreadful. Nauseous, no appetite (though I know I need to eat), headachey

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1156715472445608352006-08-28T09:43:00.000+12:002006-08-28T09:51:12.520+12:00

I had 2, actually.The first one involved living with my parents again (not good), and my current boss staying with us (even worse). There were wedding preparations, The Trouser was strangely absent, and the nightmarish behaviour from the boss reached new highs (or is that lows??).This dream made lots of my colleagues laugh very loudly.Then last night I dreamed I'd popped into Dymocks during work

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1156373200734031052006-08-24T10:42:00.000+12:002006-08-24T11:05:36.936+12:00

Everyone has their guilty pleasures, right?Mine include watching American soap-style dramas (Gilmore Girls, One Tree Hill, and the ilk), plus Aussie and NZ versions of the same (Neighbours, Home and Away, Shortland Street). I also like happy music, even when it's cheesy.I also like Reese's peanut butter cups, orange cheese, and junk food generally - but I don't feel guilty about them, it's all a

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1156130835499509192006-08-21T15:26:00.000+12:002006-08-21T15:28:51.046+12:00

After what seems like forever (or a very long time, anyway) I've picked, been measured, and paid for a wedding dress.Okay, my dad paid the deposit, but he wanted to.I know that there were Saturdays when I didn't get up early, find decent underwear, blow-dry my hair and race to meet my mother, only to traipse around shops full of tulle and satin. I just don't remember them that well.Now we can

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1155847035637507022006-08-18T08:34:00.000+12:002006-08-18T08:37:15.653+12:00

A guest post from The TrouserVitebsk, Belarus for me.

davidnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1155761303389167902006-08-17T08:43:00.000+12:002006-08-17T08:48:23.406+12:00

After much negotiation, The Trouser and I decided that our big move should be to Dublin, Ireland. We made the decision almost two years ago (I think), and have been talking about it with friends and family (but not his work, who have no idea!) for about a year or so. His parents gave him a Lonely Planet Dublin for his birthday in May.So when I saw the "What European city do you belong in?"

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1155528059958813702006-08-14T15:51:00.000+12:002006-08-15T15:47:07.660+12:00

Well it's been a slightly wilder ride than usual recently, with highs and lows aplenty.Lows- My super-interfering uncle - the one who hassled me about my unmarried status at my grandmother's wake - deciding that since our weding ceremony will be outdoors, we can invite all his grandchildren. Cos, ya know, there's nothing better than toddlers we barely know causing havoc.- Having to email my baby

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1155079911626196742006-08-09T11:29:00.000+12:002006-08-09T11:31:51.640+12:00

Thanks to a little music-related Internet activity, a badnwidth cap was exceeded, and the ADSL chez Trouser and Skirt has slowed to dial-up speed.I don't remember when we had dial-up. I know we did at some point, but it was so long ago!So until we get our new month's quota, I'm avoiding anything online at home. And thinking about how really, really patient people with dial-up are.

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1155010509145967572006-08-08T16:10:00.000+12:002006-08-08T16:15:09.166+12:00

And it was a really happy birthday. Really, really happy, actually.The Trouser generally spoiled and looked after me all day on Saturday, with lots of lovely presents, including some new fantastic socks (quite garish but very warm and cuddly!) and a gorgeous antique necklace.But even better was the fact that we got to spend the day together. All day. We brunched, I had a manicure, we hung out, we

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1154552594367451132006-08-03T08:53:00.000+12:002006-08-03T09:03:14.503+12:00

I'm struggling a little to think of things to blog about this week - plus finding the time to blog! Perhaps The Trouser would like to drop in with a guest blog again? (Hint, hint?)One of the main reasons I'm struggling is that I'd kind of like this to not just be an outlet for bitchery. And at the moment, bitchery is what I'm getting very, very good at.So instead, here's the super-abbreviated

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1153963503750506282006-07-28T21:45:00.000+12:002006-07-28T21:50:03.676+12:00

Warning: solely knitting-related content in this post. Proceed at your own risk!Our SP hostess has asked us to answer the following questions, so here goes:Someone has stolen your stash and all your books: now what are you going to do?Cry. And cry. Cry some more, and question why my stash in particular would be stolen. It's dear to me (well, mostly) but it's not that impressive really.I'd

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1153858542735685332006-07-26T08:09:00.000+12:002006-07-26T08:18:49.336+12:00

When I was smaller, I had a cool toy called Fashion Plates.They were pieces of plastic that had clothing outlined on them. You'd put paper over the top, rub it with a pencil, and hey, presto! You had an outline of an outfit, which you could them colour in.How I loved my Fashion Plates. And apparently other people did too. (Their own set, not mine. I'm good at sharing, but not that good!) I wonder

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1153783850069271442006-07-25T11:18:00.000+12:002006-07-25T11:30:50.816+12:00

Like vodka jelly.Ah, vodka jelly. We first met at one of my very first university parties. How I loved to gobble you up. Or, if a booze hag had made you, slurp you up.I developed my own recipe and made you so many times. I passed my recipe on to my youngest brother after I made him and his friends their first vodka jellies. I made it for my friend's hen's night and got everyone quite drunk, even

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1153349513198970462006-07-20T10:44:00.000+12:002006-07-24T08:59:09.336+12:00

A guest post from The TrouserI went to see DJ Shadow at the St James last week. Nothingparticularly remarkable about that save that I haven't been to a proper night time live music event for a couple of years and I've never been to see a turntables - so everything was new and exciting.The night started off well: I worked late, caught the bus down into town, and picked a random Korean eating house

davidnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1153349156630350492006-07-20T10:40:00.000+12:002006-07-20T10:45:56.686+12:00

How productive are you?At work, I mean. And by productive, I mean churning out measurable results.At the moment my productivity has taken a nose-dive. Apparently that is normal when major changes happen and are managed poorly, so I was kind of expecting it.In general I pride myself on being reasonably productive, though less so since I discovered the blogosphere.I no longer churn out lots of "

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1152049603467232652006-07-17T08:04:00.000+12:002006-07-17T08:07:38.880+12:00

Cleverness #3: the "boyfriend scarf" from... ummm... the book by the owners of Purl. (Help me out here?)Following the success of the Jo Sharp yarn for Forecast, The Trouser picked out some chocolate-y Jo Sharp DK for this scarf, which I used doubled.This was a really fun and easy knit, and The Trouser wears this scarf much more than any of the others I've made, so it's an all-around success.My

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1152584912737647752006-07-12T08:47:00.000+12:002006-07-12T08:52:39.536+12:00

We are finally getting things done on the wedding front. Hallelujah!In case you really care, here's where we're at:- We paid a deposit and signed a contract for the reception and catering. And we have a tasting tentatively scheduled for October, yum!- We picked up our save-the-date cards, which looked great and had NO mistakes. I will be hand-addressing these (there are only 30) to send this week

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1152584142514473512006-07-11T14:09:00.000+12:002006-07-11T14:15:42.533+12:00

I love, love, love secret stuff. Which is why this Secret Pal thing is fun for me.The person I am giving to has a few common interests with me, but is very different in terms of her situation (with kids, no job) and even skills (spins, dyes yarn, etc.). We like some of the same things, but also different ones.We've been emailing a lot, and I'm trying hard not to give too much away when I email.

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1152244877114683142006-07-07T15:52:00.000+12:002006-07-07T16:01:17.133+12:00

Ever wondered what muppet fur looks like when it's been spun?Voila: On the left, the skein. On the right, the ball I wound.I have 2 skeins, and they're in the process of becoming a lovely scarf, with the help of 7mm Clover needles. It's quite chunky (hence the 7mm diameter) and moderately slippery (hence the bamboo), but fairly easy to knit with.Actually, the photo doesn't really show the yarn at

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1152049263284647222006-07-05T10:36:00.000+12:002006-07-05T09:41:03.286+12:00

Cleverness #2: Forecast (the photos at last!) from KnittyI used Jo Sharp double knitting in "aubergine" for this. Quite a lot more than was originally called for, due to the modifications: longer ribbing on the sleeves and body mostly. I also went with the 3-stitch bobble (why do I alwasy type "booble"?). I like the general lack of seaming about this pattern, but I loathe picking up the stitches

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1151554823437118292006-07-05T09:37:00.000+12:002006-07-05T09:36:39.180+12:00

I posted this ages ago - but the Blogger keeps refusing to post my photos. So here's part 1:Cleverness #1: Bianca, from Rowan #38 I used 4-ply Patonyle yarn for this - 80% wool, 20% acrylic. It's a surprisingly pleasant knit, and a lot less expensive than the recommended yarn, Rowan costing the earth here and all.I modified the pattern a bit by beading once instead of 3 times, primarily because

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1152049680477633512006-07-04T09:46:00.000+12:002006-07-05T09:48:00.476+12:00

I received my first SP package!In my package was Knitting Pretty. I think the how-tos will be very useful as I try to teach someone to knit.Thanks, SP!

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1151882302928996812006-07-03T11:04:00.000+12:002006-07-03T11:18:58.803+12:00

A warning: this post is a whinge. It's a teensy bit bitter and I am perhaps being a bit self-pitying. If you're looking for uplifting material, skip this one!The Trouser and I have been very considerate of others, particularly since we've gotten engaged.With our final Xmas in NZ coming up, we figured we'd spend it with our families. After all, they all guilt-trip us every year because we don't

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1151615114145136812006-06-30T08:54:00.000+12:002006-06-30T09:05:14.193+12:00

My stomach is in knots, I'm demotivated, and I spend a lot more time faffing about than I should.Yes, it's time for more work stress.My old boss left a week ago yesterday. I've had my share of bosses - mostly nightmares. There was the one who let other team members bully each other; the one who tried to apply mascara; and the all-time worst, the one who tried to make me miserable by excluding me,

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1151555845917693382006-06-29T16:36:00.000+12:002006-06-29T16:37:25.946+12:00

Blogger, I finally got around to getting all my photos ready to post. I have finished objects coming out of the wazoo here!And you choose now to eat all my photos? Hello??What, does nobody feed you or something?

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1151539561041038012006-06-29T11:53:00.000+12:002006-06-29T12:08:22.050+12:00

I've discovered my new love.Karaage chicken (Wikipedia let me down here, so the link is explanatory only, not an endorsement for the recipe. I'm no good at frying, so I'll always buy this.). From my local Renkon.Now people, this is not some fried chicken. For a start, there are NO BONES in karaage chicken (well, Renkon-style, which is the only style I've had, but anyway...). It's large-ish chunks

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1151454835723624552006-06-28T12:23:00.000+12:002006-06-28T12:33:55.743+12:00

Yesterday I was reading a recap of Newlyweds over at Television Without Pity.(As an aside, I love TWoP. These people are geniuses. My favourite thing to do is to read ahead, so I can watch the show and remember the recappers' snarky comments as I watch.)I know, I know, Newlyweds is crappy, and Jessica Simpson is icky (her dad is ickier, though), and Nick Lachey can't sing so well (but he has nice

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1151355201152465492006-06-27T08:46:00.000+12:002006-06-27T08:53:21.206+12:00

I feel like I've been blogging, but not really blogging properly. I keep getting sidetracked by stuff and I never get around to blogging about the really interesting stuff.Case in point: our trip last year. Still unblogged.Another case in point: the recent wedding. As-yet unblogged (I'm hoping to shame myself into blogging it soon by posting this).Why am I like this?Well, it's work.You see, I

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1151007913401255012006-06-23T08:07:00.000+12:002006-06-23T08:25:13.460+12:00

it's a funny old thing, winter. Just when you think it couldn't get much worse (i.e. colder and wetter), it does.The current Antarctic blast (for you northern hemisphere-ers, we get the cold from the south - like Antarctica, hence the "Antarctic blast", as opposed to your "Arctic" blasts...) has brough with it charming southerlies that would dry the hair, so intense and cold they are - if it

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1150863179317611162006-06-21T16:12:00.000+12:002006-06-21T16:12:59.380+12:00

Ah, the lovely Anonymous. (S)he cracks me up again! Check it out here.

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1150777556580750522006-06-20T16:18:00.000+12:002006-06-20T16:25:56.613+12:00

That's right, I survived.I'm a bit pushed for time at the moment, but the salient points are:- A hoiday with your family is not very relaxing.- Especially when your dad keeps syaing "Let's all be relaxed and casual", then tries to organise the hell out of everyone.- It was warm but it rained a lot.- 5 stars my arse.- Bland food and moderate to mediocre service.- She was beautiful, kind, and

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1149824543620629052006-06-09T15:38:00.000+12:002006-06-09T15:42:23.646+12:00

My final afternoon at work for a whole 9 days. (sigh) I am *so close* to our holiday!All I have to get through between now and Tuesday afternoon is a bunch of shopping, washing, cleaning, packing and nursing (The Trouser is sick, poor love). Oh, and some relaxing and knitting if I can.I just hope I can find an appropriate knitting project and couple of books to take with me!Anyhow, you may not

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1149628637477490012006-06-07T09:05:00.000+12:002006-06-07T09:17:17.503+12:00

My older brother (Big Bro) is getting married in Fiji next week. It's a small wedding - immediate family only - so his stag party was held last Sunday.(Yes, Sunday. Monday was a holiday here.)It started off at 3pm with vodka jelly shots at our place. I upped the vodka content to 2/5 from my usual 1/3, to give them a real kick. Apparently it worked, because the boys praised them all night long. -

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1149132091234436192006-06-01T15:16:00.000+12:002006-06-01T15:21:31.256+12:00

as I walked past two young men today:"Nice ass!"I almost turned around, marched back and said "Young man, that is very kind, but totally undeserved. I have great hair today, and my eyes look really good. My outfit is great, too. But my ass? I have seen my ass, and it is not great. I don't have my magic jeans* on. So thank you. But get your eyes tested."Instead, I giggled and continued on my merry

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1148934507257888832006-05-30T08:24:00.000+12:002006-05-30T08:28:27.276+12:00

Yesterday I did 5 loads of flea-bomb laundry, with 3 left over to keep me going today.I could have washed more, but we lacked sufficient space in which to dry it all.Perhaps unsurprisingly, one of my dreams last night was laundry-related: I dreamed about making a shibori scarf. Probably because I'd love to make one, and fantasised about it as I worked yesterday, then went home and used the

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1148847720289323722006-05-29T08:17:00.000+12:002006-05-29T08:22:00.306+12:00

Ugh, how I hate fleas.The odds of having an enfleament are pretty low: wrong time of year, recent cold snap, no pets or animal contact, no colleagues or family members with recent enfleaments, living high above ground.And yet, they came. I know, because I'm covered in itchy, itchy bites.I also know because I killed a flea last night. My blood is a very healthy-looking red.The Trouser has no bites

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1148616335973931832006-05-26T16:03:00.000+12:002006-05-26T16:05:35.990+12:00

Case in point: armless driving.And my favourite: a gay scarf.People, stop being such dumbarses. Not all of you - just the dumbarses.

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1148528252279859042006-05-25T15:31:00.000+12:002006-05-25T15:37:32.303+12:00

Both The Trouser and I have been quite busy lately. Too busy to relax properly, and also too busy to get into bed early.As a consequence, we're both a bit tired. For me, that means I'm bleary-eyed, and today, I'm clumsy as well.It's not a good time for me to do important things like driving or surgery. Lucky for everyone I do the former very seldom, and the latter only on minor items of

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1148270430813498082006-05-22T15:56:00.000+12:002006-05-22T16:06:14.616+12:00

(or why I love The Trouser.)The Trouser had to work all weekend long. So while I shopped (grand total: one belt, one headband (yes, they're back, and they suit me), one dress ($19.95, what a steal!), 5 pairs of tights, one singlet), he worked.I did laundry. He worked. Briefly, I knitted while he worked.You get the general picture.What we didn't do was finalise our invitation list for the wedding,

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1147983654471711862006-05-19T07:57:00.000+12:002006-05-19T08:21:24.806+12:00

As promised, I paid a little more attention to things non-knitting-related last night.Currently on my bedside table:J.R.R. Tolkien: Author of the century, by Tom Shippey.I bought this for research for my masters, and I still have some of the post-it tabs in the book, which makes me vaguely nostalgic. I've read it many, many times before, and while it's not exactly a book you dip in and out of,

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1147908856762742352006-05-18T11:21:00.000+12:002006-05-18T11:34:16.880+12:00

I admit it, I'm pretty camera shy.You see, I don't always photograph well. I'm cute in person and all, but I always look shiny-faced and porky on film. On, and did I mention how photographers usually get me at a bad moment, like when I'm eating?Very few people have ever gotten nice photos of me in my adulthood. The Trouser's sister is one (shame about the bigotry, I could do with a decent photo

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1147837022949095812006-05-17T15:09:00.000+12:002006-05-17T15:37:03.006+12:00

So I've mentioned the wedding in passing, but never really taken the time to blog about it. Here goes...We've been planning our wedding since the beginning of this year, give or take a few weeks. It's been interesting. Girls who dream of their wedding day have a huge jump on things. If, like me, the thought of a wedding dress used to send you to sleep, you have a lot of high-pressure decisions to

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1147385336864410692006-05-12T10:02:00.000+12:002006-05-12T10:08:56.890+12:00

...for an irregularly-scheduled knitting update.I've just received the name for the person I'll be spoiling in Secret Pal 8. Without giving it all away, she is far more accomplished than me, and it will be a bit of a challenge to find nice gifts for her. In SP7 I had a pal who was NZ-mad, which made it easy - but my new match will require a lot of trips to source nice treats!Although I haven't

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1147293118059962762006-05-11T08:31:00.000+12:002006-05-11T08:31:58.083+12:00

Just pure genius.And much more likely to make me try the "magic loop" knitting thingie than a pair of socks.

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1147214841380496542006-05-10T10:29:00.000+12:002006-05-10T10:47:21.396+12:00

It's a funny old thing, karma.I really do think that the energy and actions you put out there will eventually come back to you. I try really hard not to be a total bitch, because I hate people being mean to me.I'm not convinced that karma is all that organised, though - I think sometimes you get nastiness in advance of being mean yourself.Remember my recent work misery? The rotten person

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1147053184774098912006-05-08T13:52:00.000+12:002006-05-08T13:53:04.776+12:00

It's The Trouser's birthday today!He's now officially 28 years old. So old. So clever. Such a nice Trouser.Happy birthday!

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1146627252752098402006-05-03T15:17:00.000+12:002006-05-08T13:49:14.853+12:00

Hey there Secret Pal, here's all the info:1. What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with? What fibers do you absolutely *not* like?I like lovely yarns. Most yarns, really. I don't like scratchy yarns, that feathery stuff, or floofy boucle mohair. Novelty yarns are no temptation for me, they're hell in a ball.2. What do you use to store your needles/hooks in?I have a bag, a box, and also a

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1146617260775351792006-05-03T12:43:00.000+12:002006-05-12T10:09:48.650+12:00

When "Awwww" gets run through Outlook's spell-checker, the suggestion is "Wawa".Yes, wawa.Classy, Microsoft, real classy.UPDATE: Urbandictionary.com's definitions. A hint: I'd never heard of the convenience store.

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1146524279969024762006-05-02T10:49:00.000+12:002006-05-02T13:52:03.186+12:00

The not-posting, that is.Personally, I blame the work dramas, plus a few family dramas. Nothing like *both* your sisters-in-law being nasssty to you to make you wonder if you are just a bad person generally.In the meantime, other phases I have known include (but are not limited to):1. The "I have to watch Beverly Hills 90210 or I'll die" phase. In a deeply unoriginal move, this coincided with the

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1146026113437029752006-04-26T16:32:00.000+12:002006-04-26T16:36:16.550+12:00

I've signed up for Secret Pal 8.It's a bigger commitment - US$60 - not including postage - and conact 3x a month, plus weekly bloggging, for 3 months.But that's okay by me. Damn the useless NZ dollar though - it's a bit like the rouble or something.Not a lot to say at the moment, as you may have noticed. I'm sure it's just a phase though.

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1145592835713249502006-04-21T16:09:00.000+12:002006-04-21T16:13:56.000+12:00

Awhile ago I blogged about whether or not I wanted to continue anonyblogging.I think I've decided.The Trouser and I will create some sort of wedding blog to keep the families happy and informed.I'll continue as The Skirt until we're married and have moved overseas (all things being equal, we're talking about two events that will happen in fairly short succession - a few weeks apart).At that point

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1145422019095387492006-04-19T16:37:00.000+12:002006-04-20T09:19:26.056+12:00

(Grrr Blogger for losing this post, which took me ages, and for not letting me upload photos. You are a poo-head.)Yes, loot time!First of all, Secret Pal stuff. My giver was Audrey from Pixie Sticks. She sent loads of yarn, loads of yarn-in-waiting and the tools to make it yarn, and HEAPS and HEAPS of Reese's. The Trouser was pleased by the yarn, intrigued by the spinning (I think I may be able

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1145397240613399762006-04-19T09:51:00.000+12:002006-04-19T09:54:00.630+12:00

I've slowly come to realise that many of the emails I send to people who don't know me very, very well indeed, give the impression that I am a mid-80s cheerleader.Both in tone and punctuation - far too enthusiastic.Being who and what I am, this appals me.Lots more to blog, including my SP7 package and some new projects - but after the loooong Easter break I'm snowed under with work. I'll get to

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1144787618999384002006-04-12T08:04:00.000+12:002006-04-12T08:33:39.026+12:00

I've had a really bad experience at work recently. In spite of my determination to deal with it and move on, I am still feeling pretty upset and, most of all, quite vulnerable.Without going into too many of the finer details, there's a piece of work I do twice every year. It draws on work that someone else has done, but it's always been my job to do this particular part.A group of women I work

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1144731669517118092006-04-11T16:53:00.000+12:002006-04-12T08:03:37.990+12:00

Tee hee, get it? River = water; progress = movement = not stagnant? Sometimes I kill (only) myself!Anyhow, behold River in its many states over the past few days!Completed but unblocked and with ends everywhere:After a nice bath: Blocked on the bed (the obligatory detail shot): And in case you care, some specs :Pattern: River, Rowan #38Yarn: Rowan KidsilkHaze, nice mossy green colour - perhaps

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1144281262109426692006-04-06T11:48:00.000+12:002006-04-06T11:54:22.186+12:00

Today, courtesy of the wonders of the Interweb, I bring you two examples of lunacy.Instance of lunacy #1: People are willing to take a pay cut so they can bring their dogs into work.View articleHello?? It's a dog. It may be lovely, but it's a dog. If you need to take something special to you into work, try a photo, or even a special blankie.Instance of lunacy #2: Japanese mummies who have waaaay

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1144120755614249852006-04-04T15:11:00.000+12:002006-04-04T15:19:15.656+12:00

It was a lovely holiday. The last flight from Sydney got us in late on Sunday/ early on Monday, and the late-night carpet-cleaning on Sunday, and frenzy of unpacking on Monday night have made me a bit tired.So only a brief post.In brief, the grandmas were great - very spry, sweet, and lovely, as always. We spent some time one-on-one, which is very rare and special indeed. We also spent time with

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1143151639791332332006-03-24T09:30:00.000+12:002006-03-24T10:07:19.893+12:00

The Trouser and I are about to embark upon a brief holiday. It's our summer break - because we didn't get one over summer - even though it's autumn now.We're heading off to Sydney, where we'll spend the weekend relaxing (Oxford St and Paddington markets are on the cards), and he'll spend 2 days working while I shop or knit or do whatever. Then we're off to Gosford, where his grandmas live, to

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1142886610295765092006-03-21T08:25:00.000+12:002006-03-21T17:05:08.523+12:00

In spite of my athletic endeavours, I've managed to get some knitting done.Exhibit 1: progress on Forecast (discussed in more detail at the Forecast knitalong):Exhibit 2: finished Monette scarf, from Rowan 38:The colours are not true in either of the photos - more aubergine-y for Forecast, and less orange-y for Monette. But you get the idea.My only problems now are that it's not cold enough yet

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1142829135030654032006-03-20T16:26:00.000+12:002006-03-20T16:32:15.053+12:00

If you know me - and let's face it, if you're reading my blog, you probably don't know me in person - then you know I am not at all athletic.I try when required, but I lack coordination, athletic ability, and any desire to do really well or make a huge effort.I don't like sports at all, really. To participate in or to watch.So guess what completely out of character thing I did in the weekend? I

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1142464870759188812006-03-16T12:06:00.000+13:002006-03-16T12:22:07.893+13:00

I've been toying with an idea recently.I'm thinking about blogging as me.I mean, I blog as me now, but it's a kind of covert-me. I don't mention my name or much about me. It means I won't get dooced, which is always a bonus, but there are downsides.For example, we're planning to get married and move overseas. People want to know what's going on on those fronts, and once we're gone, blogging will

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1142223583589260782006-03-13T17:17:00.000+13:002006-03-13T17:19:43.610+13:00

My first knitalong - the Forecast knitalong!The idea (I think, anyway) is that a group of people knitting the same thing show each other their progress and pattern modifications, and keep each other motivated.I've already posted, since my ineptitude means I picked a great pattern that includes cables, something I know nothing about knitting. D'oh.I do hope someone can help me - otherwise I'll

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1142058995202980862006-03-11T19:32:00.000+13:002006-03-16T12:22:36.496+13:00

After an early-morning stop at the wool shop, I'm now ready for 3 new projects:- Knitty's Forecast, with a lovely aubergine-y Jo Sharp wool.- Rowan 38's Bianca, a beautiful beaded cardigan. I'm hoping to get the beads so I can start soon.- A wrap for the mother-in-law in a bright purple. It's a Mother's Day present - thought I should get started early, given that I'll be far more interested in

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1141767095280865242006-03-08T10:25:00.000+13:002006-03-08T10:31:35.306+13:00

I have almost run out of my trusty lip gloss, and last night I finally got around to investigating my stash of lip glosses to pick the next victim.Yes, I have a stash of lip glosses.You see, you never know when you're going to come across a great lip gloss, and equally, you never know when you're going to need a new one.(OK, you can probably guess the latter, but you know what I mean.)Last night

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1141697389587727402006-03-07T14:55:00.000+13:002006-03-08T10:34:49.873+13:00

Well, my empty-ish needles only lasted a short while.I received my wool, which included 2 balls each of Kidsilk Night in the silver and white, and 12 skeins each of jade and umm, rabbit? the pale grey, anyway - of Rowanspun 4-ply.I had great plans for the Rowanspun, but now I'm not so sure. It's quite tweedy and not super soft, so my plans to make a cute cardi in it are dashed. I think it would

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1141347192683547002006-03-03T13:42:00.000+13:002006-03-03T13:58:06.016+13:00

As I wait for the wool, I realise that I have nothing to knit. Nothing at all!I had been working a scarf from Last Minute Knitted Gifts, but then I finished it. And yes, it may be in the 8-hours-or-more category, but it did take awhile.I used different yarn from the one specified (or I'd be waiting for it to be delivered still!), but it worked out fairly well I think:And it looks good on (ignore

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1141245178986612412006-03-02T09:29:00.000+13:002006-03-02T09:32:59.006+13:00

I'm almost finished a cardigan (waiting on more wool), have bought wool for another cardigan (waiting more wool, again), and have bought loads and loads wool from the UK for as-yet unspecified projects (though I have a few in mind).Then today I came across Forecast, via Fig and Plum. The sleeves are too pouffy, but there's a modified version that looks amazing.One more project to add to the

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1141072287875539422006-02-28T09:20:00.000+13:002006-02-28T09:32:57.133+13:00

Identity is part perception, right?So if people perceive you as being X, but you perceive yourself as not being X, are you X or not?If you are born somewhere, or live there for a long time, does it make you that nationality?Legalities and citizenships aside, I mean. If your gut feeling is that you aren't that nationality, even though you might hold the relevant passport, then are you right?I know

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1140417432628208342006-02-20T19:31:00.000+13:002006-02-20T19:37:12.650+13:00

Briefly:- Using crazy, orange plastic knitting needles from the 70s, with blue-y striped wool. It's a 70s extravaganza all knitting-time long! I'm also making really good progress on the wacky scarf, which is gratifying.- My friend had her baby! It's a girl!- I just ordered yarn online for the very first time. And at a flat rate of 15 pounds for shipping, I went a little bit silly.- The Trouser

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10227493.post-1139945553576874412006-02-15T08:21:00.000+13:002006-02-15T08:32:33.660+13:00

Unlike virtually everyone I know, I don't view Valentine's Day as a commercialised nightmare.In my book, it's a day about lurrrrrrrrrrrve, and a good excuse to tell people that you lurrrrrrrrrrrve them. Even when I was single it was a day I enjoyed.As a small child, my school class exchanged cards (obviously this was in the US, not NZ!). My mother would always leave us little valentines like

The Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855985083696716271noreply@blogger.com1