thrum thrum thrum thrum!!!

These mitts... let's see. They were among the first of the knitting projects I attempted. I believe they got started about this time last year. Or was it two springs ago? Been so long, I can't remember. It was gangbusters for the first one but the second really dragged me down (it was after this that I decided to do knitted pairs simultaneously). In flurry of knitting-resolution and work-procrastination I ploughed through the second one last night and got it done. They aren't the prettiest - especially the rushed one - but it is nice to have them off the needles. Will I ever wear them? Who knows... probably.


Now a question to you knitters. I am looking to try a sweater and I have my heart set on "minimalist cardigan" from the fall 2007 interweave knits. I don't want to screw up with the yarn choice. Many people on Ravelry (oh yeah - I'm on ravelry now but I will probably only use it to check out patterns - so no need to add me as a friend there) used Knitpicks Wool of the Andes... which is very affordable and probably a safe choice... but I'm willing to go a little more luxurious than that I think. So I guess I'm wondering if anyone has a yarn they just adore for sweaters that is worsted weight or a little bit lighter. The stuff they use in the mag is "Lily Park" merino/alpaca. Someone used Cascade 220 and it looks good too.

Tails of 58 Years

When Andy's Grandpa and and Grandma got married (they were both named "Anne" coincedently ( - actually "Ane" and "Anje" )) in 1949, they invested in a set of woolen "tails" and pants. If you've heard of the "sisterhood of the travelling pants" books, this is kind of the male equivalent... the "brotherhood of the travelling tails" perhaps.

The jacket has probably been back and forth across the ocean more times than I have and has been worn for various functions - mainly weddings - for 58 years now. It seems to fit almost everyone who wears it... well... anyone between 5'11 to 6'4" at least. It's last wedding use was for our wedding 4 years ago (see below) and I think it is about time for someone in the family to use it again (hint hint Ruth or Hannah or Emily... just teasing!!).

I was dusting off these photos for the upcoming 50th anniversary of one of the wearer's (the brother of the man in the upper photo) and its such a neat story, I thought I should share...