Author: Holly

Me-ssoni for Tech Geeks

Published by

I am talking about a recently finished garment, my first of 2018.  First due to the nature of my newly single life (adjusting/managing/accepting) but also first due to the intricacies of what was on my needles.  In all fairness to the publisher of Vogue Knitting, the pattern was marked as ‘expert’ which means a high level of difficulty to knit, so I guess I was warned. This post is mostly about the technicalities of knitting this particular piece so now I am warning you!  Thinking if any of you want to take this on, my notes may serve as helpful. The rule for a project (truthfully, any project whether in knitting or otherwise) is to begin with the end in mind.  Before I knitted the first stitch, I thought of how I was going to sew the pieces of fabric together that I would be creating.  I decided right then I was going to crochet the sides together which meant adding a selvage edge (an extra stitch on both sides) on all the pieces.  So, immediately …

Detroit, Anyone? I did not take my knitting . . .

Published by

Yes, we chose Detroit for a little R & R.  Why, you might ask?  Here are a few reasons. “One of the most beautiful homes on Airbnb. This is a 4 bedroom, 4 bathroom historic home in one of the most beautiful, one of a kind neighborhood of Detroit. Woodbridge is in Midtown, and a mile from most of Detroit’s finest sights, art, and stadiums. My wife and I are in Greece for at least six months helping refugees and your stay is our only revenue keeping us there. Thank you!” Why think twice?  This is where we stayed. The gardens out back were very representative of an English garden, overgrown vines as far as the eye could see whether in nature, or otherwise. The front porch was lovely for relaxation or as a backdrop for photo taking a couple on the go. Did you know the Detroit Institute of the Arts is ranked 9th of best museums within the United States?  Very impressive by all of our (critical) standards. The museum offers a variety …

The Erie County Fair Continues to Call, 2018

Published by

The Erie County Fair is near and dear to my heart as it has a long history with me.  From being an equestrian representing Camp Sprucelands from youth (below, Sheba and me) as well as attending through the years of marriage (late hubby modeling against a tractor), to 2018 where I was a judge in the hand craft category of knitting and crocheting.  I write this post sharing some of the prize-winning creations that are now proudly displayed at the fair as well as to share some of the other endearing sights I saw and heard. I know the fairgrounds well however through the years there have been changes to building names and locations of all things ‘farm’.  What used to be called the Woman’s Building located in the park-like section of the fair is now called the Creative Arts Exhibits located in the Grandstand. The farm animals are located in different directions, smaller barn animals in one locale, horses in another.  Upon getting onto the fair grounds today, I thought, where to turn first.  This …

Reader-Inspired

Published by

I decided to take the time this evening to see why your blogs seemed to stop. I enjoyed them so very much. I sent you a note for information on the Tom Scott piece and you kindly answered so knitting that now. I have been taking care of things here as my 30-ish son had a heart transplant and thus lives here now with me forever. I have not had time for much else. I am heart broken because I now know why you have not done your fine blog now.I am so very sorry for your loss and hope you have managed to find a life without him. What a kind message I received and what a motivation to get back to writing! I have been struggling getting thought into words.  This is the longest I have gone without a blog post since beginning my website some 5 – 6 years, ago.  I don’t think it is necessarily that I am busier than I have ever been as I’m a girl who has always …

Kick in the butt

Published by

This post nor this project is either big, nor fancy, but writing it is meant as a personal kick in the butt or more politely said, motivation to get MOVING with this adorable project. The always alluring patterns from Tiny Owl Knits are just that, alluring, worked up or just admired on the printed page, the forest themed animals always call to me. This is my very first shawl (and likely last) but that owl . . . could not resist her and will be a lovely addition to the set of forest creatures growing in my hand knits . . . bear (yes, I made two), fawn, and snake (look for cabling around the hem). Now, to get GOING!!!  Look at how adorable! Gift yarn to boot! 21 feathers, I need 44. and, body is coming along. . . Let’s see if writing about this project is the kick I need to finish it!

A Valentine for Late Hubby

Published by

Roses are red Violets blue Your loved ones Are remembering The day I married you! Roses are Red Violets blue now collected in my heart are memories of you Roses are red Violets indeed are blue I will stop by and blow a kiss to you Life does go on whether we like it or not, tis true I can no longer say Happy Anniversary to you It is a constant that roses are red and violets blue As with things tangible we can count on remain true Roses are red Violets are blue Life is now offering A new point of view.  

Full-on Indulgence including Runway Revisit, 2018

Published by

If you are a follower of VKL (Vogue Knitting Live), you may be aware that this event in NYC is historically held in January.  After travel debacle of December, I was fully aware January could prove the same.  JetBlue, however served its travelers well, weather cooperated, and I found myself at VKL NYC 2018 in good form. Having attended the event before, I knew what to expect but wanting to make something new of the occasion, I chose to volunteer at the event.  That immediately changed the dates of travel due to a volunteer meeting held on the Wednesday evening before.  It also meant two glorious extra days in the city and lots of decision-making on how to spend that time. When the weekend was all said and done, as in all travel, there were certain moments, expected and otherwise, that stand out, so with this post, those are the moments I will highlight. Wednesday ~ easy travel.  With room readily available and map in hand, I settled in for my stay and planned where …

Highlights, Yes, there were some

Published by

The ending to this year was no different than the personal devastation I endured throughout this horrific year of 2017.  Bitter cold temperatures and wind prohibited the otherwise planned trip to be with family this holiday season. It was to be that I was to spend this holiday alone.  As we all know, holidays are designed for family.  Period.  When you find yourself alone, you realize that more than ever (and a lesson to keep in your heart to help others who you realize are alone during a holiday season).  However, with a bit of perseverance (because I’m that way), do-over planning, and creative thinking, I have come to realize there were actually some highlights to this holiday season of which I am most appreciative.  Here are a few and may help you if ever . . . Childhood ornaments ~ I did put up a Christmas tree.  Full size from floor to ceiling.  Preferring a real tree but knowing the handling aspects, the artificial had to suffice.  Having long passed along our family’s handmade ornaments, …