tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-179708352024-03-07T21:32:04.155-05:00Tres Chic VeroniqueUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger202125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17970835.post-10344622745947012832009-11-01T16:01:00.006-05:002009-11-01T16:46:23.609-05:00Rhinebeck!Can you believe I knit a Rhinebeck sweater? OK, fine, it was a baby sweater... But still!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEignOUfCWBsmC82KmSne_5JuOAkZlY1J9dz1gz01j4Kzl1s4bR6ZKl5nKtVgYF59jWqRn6hJh_WcZGROnwe067g92WgwIjvKQQRPk0D2oVtK_wKACZI4GTqW-vgvAf0ulqOtueCeQ/s1600-h/IMG_5214.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEignOUfCWBsmC82KmSne_5JuOAkZlY1J9dz1gz01j4Kzl1s4bR6ZKl5nKtVgYF59jWqRn6hJh_WcZGROnwe067g92WgwIjvKQQRPk0D2oVtK_wKACZI4GTqW-vgvAf0ulqOtueCeQ/s320/IMG_5214.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399244851678208946" border="0" /></a>This little lamb seems unimpressed.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY1bQVaQDckX_SV6cFjRQpykCxHlgLxZ3kwV1F4mYuoBxSVMH6KwXuck1InvrI5e2ITrmRbfMcibCinn66j3UaJMG1cA_Sx7mwDgMrigjYIj_NfnAByBKhXSyjKbuCr9tgiMDLDA/s1600-h/IMG_5215.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY1bQVaQDckX_SV6cFjRQpykCxHlgLxZ3kwV1F4mYuoBxSVMH6KwXuck1InvrI5e2ITrmRbfMcibCinn66j3UaJMG1cA_Sx7mwDgMrigjYIj_NfnAByBKhXSyjKbuCr9tgiMDLDA/s320/IMG_5215.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399245002804828578" border="0" /></a>Deets:<br />Debbie Bliss Duffle Coat (<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/duffle-coat">Rav link</a>) from <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Essential-Baby-Handknits-First-Steps/dp/1570763682/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1257111391&sr=8-1">Essential Baby</a> (<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/Veronique/duffle-coat">my rav link</a>)<br />Yarn: <a href="http://www.theyarntree.com/store/yarns/frogtree/woolworsted.html">Frog Tree Merino</a>.<br />Needle: Size 6.<br />Buttons: little wood buttons from <a href="http://www.mjtrim.com/?gclid=CMiPsILi6p0CFQk75QoddRjTJw">MJ Trimmings</a>.<br />Notes: boy, this yarn sheds. It's a single ply, so I should've known... Well, at least it's super soft. And the halo makes it fuzzy and warm! I just don't like seeing the baby with little bits of yarn in his mouth. <br /><br />I also managed to make 2 matching <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/aviatrix-baby-hat">Aviatrix hats</a>. (One for Sam, one for a faraway friend). <br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRfiq9qpOPtyLUM9ehS21V_Lmm2yh9gI2P4YdEp5fLkFytOtvyuF9gIp33mTdkTSB8-Ty60NcArMLeCoj9UqMENeBXAOnJlrDLE4gXRo1nSFEWj6KPjfTyOYMEqJHZoolaV07NzA/s1600-h/IMG_5338.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRfiq9qpOPtyLUM9ehS21V_Lmm2yh9gI2P4YdEp5fLkFytOtvyuF9gIp33mTdkTSB8-Ty60NcArMLeCoj9UqMENeBXAOnJlrDLE4gXRo1nSFEWj6KPjfTyOYMEqJHZoolaV07NzA/s320/IMG_5338.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399245327028583682" border="0" /></a>I like that this hat has a tie under the chin, even though Sam likes hats and doesn't take them off. But the best part is that it covers the ears! <br /><br />Sam is in his oral phase and wants to eat everything. Even the books that I'm reading to him. <br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_XWtjIuzIB9cmScZdTV6rnqCi7MgjTGqP8nQMbDZ8DeUVIH7hklXyMG4lmd9fxKOkYhal4JUFSDFSn75nj8BtyvtxU7XiEjc27W914UftWGDyKBeeenZaPBbCNUhv68gW73YzXQ/s1600-h/IMG_5280.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_XWtjIuzIB9cmScZdTV6rnqCi7MgjTGqP8nQMbDZ8DeUVIH7hklXyMG4lmd9fxKOkYhal4JUFSDFSn75nj8BtyvtxU7XiEjc27W914UftWGDyKBeeenZaPBbCNUhv68gW73YzXQ/s320/IMG_5280.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399245171988830498" border="0" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17970835.post-12315266598356473522009-08-03T21:47:00.003-04:002009-08-03T22:02:09.130-04:00There's been some crafting going on...After Sam got his 2 month shots, he fell asleep for most of the day. I seized this opportunity and made these rompers:<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treschic_veronique/3787407546/" title="Romper! by treschic_veronique, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2496/3787407546_5fe5be03d4.jpg" alt="Romper!" height="500" width="375" /></a><br />I first saw these rompers on <a href="http://amingledyarn.wordpress.com/2009/04/03/sewing-fo-tea-party-romper/">Elizabeth's blog</a>, and bought <a href="http://www.oliverands.com/patterns/pants/patterns5.phtml">the pattern</a> immediately. That is how cute her daughter is! Of course, it helps that Elizabeth is an impeccable seamstress.<br />Sam is going to be a ring bearer for his aunt's wedding in 3 weeks, and I want him to wear a seersucker version of these rompers. This was the practice round, and it went pretty well. The pattern is very detailed and easy to follow. I can't wait to dig into that seersucker.<br /><br />This is not new crafting per se, but my little baby fits into the pyjamas I made when I was pregnant!<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treschic_veronique/3783419420/" title="Sam's pyjamas by treschic_veronique, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2505/3783419420_e57d972075.jpg" alt="Sam's pyjamas" height="500" width="375" /></a><br />and he loves the lobster roll!<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treschic_veronique/3783421502/" title="Lobster roll! by treschic_veronique, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3566/3783421502_5c66c9591f.jpg" alt="Lobster roll!" height="500" width="333" /></a><br />Oh, and there's been some knitting going on too... I finished <a href="http://autoscopia.com/amelia/archives/2006/05/cherry_pattern.html">Cherry</a>, at <a href="http://sknitty.wordpress.com/">Jillian</a>'s suggestion and just need buttons.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17970835.post-15213890506495586022009-07-21T21:10:00.002-04:002009-07-21T21:19:25.095-04:002 months already?!We've been floored by your craftiness and generosity!<br />Vanessa (<a href="http://coloursknits.blogspot.com/">Coloursknit</a>) sewed Sam some booties and an adorable bib. The booties make him kick even faster! <br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treschic_veronique/3708854174/" title="Vanessa's bib and booties by treschic_veronique, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3441/3708854174_59d4915dfd.jpg" alt="Vanessa's bib and booties" height="500" width="375" /></a><br /><br />Jillian (<a href="http://sknitty.wordpress.com/">Sknitty)</a> made Sam the coolest vest. It's got owls all around it! Sam thinks they are delicious. <br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treschic_veronique/3708854494/" title="Jillian's vest by treschic_veronique, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3249/3708854494_8ebac7f4e7.jpg" alt="Jillian's vest" height="500" width="375" /></a><br /><br />And the talented <a href="http://physicsknits.blogspot.com/">Connie</a> designed and knitted a snazzy cardigan. It makes Sam all dreamy eyed... <br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treschic_veronique/3708854874/" title="Connie's Cardi by treschic_veronique, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2438/3708854874_caf22b4190.jpg" alt="Connie's Cardi" height="500" width="375" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17970835.post-16705880425135330702009-05-14T10:25:00.002-04:002009-05-14T10:43:21.453-04:00The countdown is off!We are incredibly proud and exceedingly happy to introduce you to the most beautiful baby in the world. We have seen many babies, so we are not making this statement lightly. Check it out for yourselves:<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treschic_veronique/3531271050/" title="In the birthing center by treschic_veronique, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3227/3531271050_c74f6beb7c.jpg" alt="In the birthing center" height="500" width="375" /></a><br />Samuel Elliott was born in the birthing center on Saturday May 9th, 2009 at 5:37AM, just as dawn was breaking and after 10 short hours of labor. He weighed 8 lbs 4 oz and was 20.5 in long.<br />A few minor health problems necessitated his admission to the NICU, where he spent the first 3 days of his life.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treschic_veronique/3530457277/" title="My first mother's day card! by treschic_veronique, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2388/3530457277_11f8ff5aaa.jpg" alt="My first mother's day card!" height="375" width="500" /></a><br />We are now all home and have started the adventure that is our lives as 3 in earnest!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17970835.post-51434846258344737152009-05-08T10:12:00.002-04:002009-05-08T11:12:02.800-04:00Countdown: 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, ONE!As <a href="http://oneschemeofhappiness.typepad.com/home/">Katie</a> says, I am a ticking baby bomb.<br />Don't believe me? Check out the belly:<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treschic_veronique/3512324671/" title="belly cast! by treschic_veronique, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3650/3512324671_66cc2e01b1.jpg" alt="belly cast!" height="500" width="333" /></a><br />At 36 weeks, my waist had increased by 12". By 38 weeks, it was a lucky 13", and now, at 39 weeks, my waist has increased by a whopping 14"! This baby is GROWING. And kicking. And still hiccuping.<br />I'm starting to run out of time, crafting-wise, so I'm trying to do only quick projects.<br />Here is one from the <a href="http://www.purlbee.com/the-purl-bee/2009/4/15/mollys-sketchbook-felt-aquarium-magnets.html">Purl Bee blog</a>:<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treschic_veronique/3512319179/" title="Purl mobile by treschic_veronique, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3363/3512319179_b57685469a.jpg" alt="Purl mobile" height="334" width="500" /></a><br />Instead of making magnets, I clipped these sea creatures to my <a href="http://www.momastore.org/museum/moma/ProductDisplay_Photo%20Mobile_10451_10001_34325">photo mobile</a>. It only took a couple of evenings!<br />I also whipped up a quilted burp cloth:<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treschic_veronique/3512321561/" title="Burp cloth by treschic_veronique, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3560/3512321561_a0f62721a4.jpg" alt="Burp cloth" height="500" width="334" /></a><br />I used 2 baby wash cloths for the back. I don't know why, but we've been gifted many bath items, and have about 20 washcloths! And the fabric is some leftover <a href="http://www.heatherrossdesigns.com/goods/bugs.html">Heather Ross</a>. <br /><br />Having my hands busy keeps me from wondering when this baby will make the decision to come out! But he's going to come out at some point, right? Right?!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17970835.post-75212136825502867072009-05-04T16:09:00.003-04:002009-05-04T16:48:18.053-04:00Countdown: 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, TWO!Two weeks left until my due date?! I can hardly believe it.<br />Our hospital bags are packed, and waiting by the door.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treschic_veronique/3502208726/" title="They're watching us. by treschic_veronique, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3409/3502208726_2e4fe88ebc.jpg" alt="They're watching us. " width="500" height="375" /></a><br />They are waiting rather impatiently. (By the way, I realize that I never blogged about the <a href="http://www.amybutlerdesign.com/products/patterns_display.php?id=22">Weekender Bag</a> that I made in December 2006. Oops!).<br /><br />I finished my diaper bag, just under the wire :)<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treschic_veronique/3501394439/" title="Diaper bag with scowl by treschic_veronique, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3592/3501394439_f03d69e8aa.jpg" alt="Diaper bag with scowl" width="340" height="500" /></a><br />(Pardon the scowl, but this is the best shot out of many pictures). As I mentioned in my previous post, this bag is a variation on the Everything Bag by <a href="http://www.amybutlerdesign.com/products/books_detail.php#little">Amy Butler</a>. It's slightly smaller than the original pattern, and I added a zipper at the top. I've had this japanese fabric in my stash for a while, and love the fake french. It's the french equivalent of <a href="http://engrishfunny.com/">engrish</a>. <br /><br />And I did indeed finish the smaller-sized <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/Veronique/garter-stitch-baby-kimono-2">Baby Garter Kimono</a>. <br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treschic_veronique/3501394209/" title="Baby kimono and a blanket by treschic_veronique, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3351/3501394209_1c9e5be1dd.jpg" alt="Baby kimono and a blanket" width="500" height="375" /></a><br />And now I'm thinking that it might be too small. I guess I'll have to bring both to the birthing center and see which one fits... <br />Oh, and I snuck in a <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/Veronique/my-baby-blanket">baby blanket</a>! Can you believe I didn't have a hand-knit baby blanket?! I've had a few balls of Rowan Cotton Tape hanging out in my stash for a few years now, and I married them to the Garter Chevron pattern (February 26th in the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Knitting-Stitches-Year-Perpetual-Calendar/dp/1564774325">knitting stitch calenda</a>r). I swatched with one whole ball, calculated the area (in square inches) I could get out of that one ball, then figured out how many stitches I needed to cast on to make a square blanket. Thankfully, on size 10.5 needles, it only took 3-4 days!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17970835.post-36735057286849253182009-04-27T18:29:00.002-04:002009-04-27T19:07:07.101-04:00Countdown: 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, THREE!I'm still here! I just couldn't blog without having some kind of FO to show you...<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treschic_veronique/3481291666/" title="Maternity dress by treschic_veronique, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3406/3481291666_0c3dff2fab.jpg" alt="Maternity dress" height="375" width="500" /></a><br />This is <a href="http://sewing.patternreview.com/cgi-bin/patterns/sewingpatterns.pl?patternid=2771">Simplicity 5756</a>, a super easy pattern. I can't really tell you which "view" I made, since I made the short sleeves from the shirt pattern, but followed the directions for the dress. I used a <a href="http://www.baumtextile.com/cgi-bin/fabricshop/gallery.cgi?func=show&file=27&Category=331&v=1">modern flower print</a> from Purl. I finished this dress just in time to wear to what turned out to be a <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treschic_veronique/3479801591/">surprise baby shower</a>!<br />I also finally made the second <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/blue-steps---baby-booties">baby bootie</a>.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treschic_veronique/3480480269/" title="Baby booties by treschic_veronique, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3583/3480480269_c0bcfc71d1.jpg" alt="Baby booties" height="375" width="500" /></a><br />This is a very clever pattern: it's knit from the sole up (I started with a magic 8 cast on), and it's done all in the round. I must admit that the translation (from german) was very confusing, but as you can see, I figured it out!<br />And, last but not least, I finally cut out the pieces for my diaper bag!<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treschic_veronique/3481289404/" title="Diaper bag! by treschic_veronique, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3609/3481289404_33e037d3ce.jpg" alt="Diaper bag! " height="375" width="500" /></a><br />I'm basing it on the Amy Butler "Everything Bag" from her "<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Amy-Butlers-Little-Stitches-Butler/dp/0811861287/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1240873169&sr=8-1">Little Stitches</a>" book. I had the idea to make a bag that was a hybrid of the <a href="http://www.amybutlerdesign.com/products/patterns_display.php?id=22">Weekender bag</a> and the Everything bag, but then I saw <a href="http://fancie-pants.blogspot.com/2009/04/fo-amy-butler-everything-bag-elijah.html">Fancie Pants Knits' version of the Everything bag</a>... Well, it's so cute, I settled on making the Everything, with a zippered top!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17970835.post-63077291672838278722009-04-16T15:57:00.003-04:002009-04-16T16:15:48.032-04:00Countdown: 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, FOUR!<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treschic_veronique/3448497454/" title="36 weeks by treschic_veronique, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3656/3448497454_7db8f145f6.jpg" alt="36 weeks" width="359" height="500" /></a><br />Oh, I look so casual, leaning against the wall... But do you see that little pink dot? Right there, on May 14th? It's a moving target, as babies can decide to make their appearance up to 2 weeks before it or 2 weeks after it. Who knows where that little pink dot will actually land? (Everybody thinks early, but I have no idea why).<br /><br />I've been slowing down on the crafting front, as my hands are hurting. One of my midwives mentioned the possibility of pregnancy-induced arthritis, and my reaction is: *fingers in ears* LA LA LA LA LA. I WILL finish the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/Veronique/garter-stitch-baby-kimono">take home cardi</a> that I'm reknitting in a smaller size, oh yes I will.<br /><br />One thing that cheers me up immensely these days: people who give me their seat on the subway. I'd only heard stories about pregnant women not being able to get a seat, but my experience is the exact opposite. Some people get up of their own volition, others will ask a seated person to give me their seat, and not a single person so far has refused to give me their seat when asked. And believe me, I'll ask!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17970835.post-85140914560648384532009-04-10T17:42:00.002-04:002009-04-10T18:05:58.788-04:00Countdown: 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, FIVE!<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treschic_veronique/3429381269/" title="Baby Quilt! by treschic_veronique, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3604/3429381269_a6da5da029.jpg" alt="Baby Quilt!" height="334" width="500" /></a><br />The baby quilt is done, except for the binding! As you can see, I opted to make a small (30" x 23"), double-sided quilt. Yes, double-sided. I thought it would be so easy! Ha! Lining up both sides precisely was .... how shall I say it... time consuming. I hand basted with super visible hot pink thread, checking that both sides aligned with every single freaking stitch I made, then machine quilted it.<br />Now I just need to choose a binding color that will complement both sides. Brown? Red? <br /><br />I also made a pouch sling, from this <a href="http://www.sleepingbaby.net/jan/Baby/tubesling.html">free online pattern</a>, and using my lobster fabric purchased 8.5 months ago in Maine ;) Now I can have a lobster roll with me at all times! <br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treschic_veronique/3430196238/" title="Changing table by treschic_veronique, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3373/3430196238_83192e9133.jpg" alt="Changing table" height="500" width="295" /></a><br />Oh yes, I also got an Obama "change" poster for the changing table. Cracking myself up over here!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17970835.post-84988441238027007752009-04-03T12:42:00.002-04:002009-04-03T12:57:10.266-04:00Countdown: 10, 9, 8, 7, SIX!Well, this WIP has 6 weeks (+/- 2 weeks) to become an FO. It seems I have become a one project kind of girl too. A lot of work going into this one! I feel like I'm spending my days going to physical therapy (oh, my aching back...) and to the pool (yay!), as well as lots of lounging on the couch and complaining about how the joints of my hands hurt. Seriously, the joints of my hands?! I hadn't heard that one before. They're not even swollen! <br />Not much craftiness going on as a result, although I have made a teeny bit of progress on the baby quilt:<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treschic_veronique/3409071401/" title="Beginning of a baby quilt by treschic_veronique, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3390/3409071401_0b506481d7.jpg" alt="Beginning of a baby quilt" width="500" height="491" /></a><br />(Turns out that planet fabric that I used to cover the crib bumper is pretty popular: <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/juliefrick/3388058596/">Julie Frick used it too</a>!). <br />Oh, and my family threw a baby shower for me! It was a whole weekend extravaganza, and they purchased almost every item on our registry. Wow. <br /><br />In other news, I think my baby has learned kick boxing. *Punch! Jab! Kick! Repeat from *, all day long. It is highly entertaining, both for me and others, as this activity is visible from the outside.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17970835.post-85802113158322146542009-03-26T15:56:00.003-04:002009-03-26T16:11:48.388-04:00Countdown: 10, 9, 8, SEVEN!Still lots of craftiness going on...<br />Pyjamas from Amy Butler's "<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Amy-Butlers-Little-Stitches-Butler/dp/0811861287">Little Stitches For Little Ones</a>":<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treschic_veronique/3388344770/" title="pyjamas by treschic_veronique, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3546/3388344770_6f707027df.jpg" alt="pyjamas" width="500" height="313" /></a><br /><a href="http://www.superbuzzy.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=108_111&products_id=2098">Fabric</a> on sale at <a href="http://www.superbuzzy.com/">Superbuzzy</a>! I bought some in red for myself. Is it wrong that I want matching pyjamas? It's not like I'm going out in public with matching mother-son outfits... And he will be too young to remember...<br /><br />I also whipped up <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/Veronique/otto-owl-toy">Tom the owl</a> from Lucinda Guy's "<a href="http://www.amazon.com/so-Bed-Lucinda-Guy/dp/1570763291/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1238097685&sr=1-1">And So to Bed</a>" (in Lion Brand Cotton Ease). Although, in the book, he is named Otto, but we felt he was more of a Tom.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treschic_veronique/3388344704/" title="Tom the owl by treschic_veronique, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3443/3388344704_fbe0e16b58.jpg" alt="Tom the owl" width="500" height="334" /></a><br />Tom loves the Boppy bouncing seat (thanks <a href="http://schrodinger212.blogspot.com/">Schrodinger</a> for the advice!). He is fascinated by the toys. He will stare at them for hours!<br /><br />And here is the hiccuping one:<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treschic_veronique/3388344904/" title="33 weeks! by treschic_veronique, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3557/3388344904_233338513d.jpg" alt="33 weeks!" width="364" height="500" /></a><br />We learned today that he is head down! Good boy :)Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17970835.post-37542779379570739102009-03-19T13:47:00.002-04:002009-03-19T14:28:02.800-04:00Countdown: 10, 9, EIGHT!Eight more weeks! We went on the hospital tour last night, and got to check out both Labor & Delivery (hectic, loud) and the Birthing Center (calm, focused). Can you guess which one I'm planning to use?<br />I finished the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/garter-stitch-baby-kimono">Garter Stitch Baby Kimono</a>, only to realize that it's a little bit on the large side (as per my midwife, what, you thought I knew these things?) . Not really ideal as a take home sweater.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treschic_veronique/3368575314/" title="Garter baby kimono and one bootie. by treschic_veronique, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3445/3368575314_7660f2a850.jpg" alt="Garter baby kimono and one bootie." width="500" height="334" /></a><br />No problem though, I have 6 skeins of <a href="http://www.knitpicks.com/Bare+Merino+Wool+Sock+Yarn_YD5420102.html">Knit Picks' sock yarn</a>, so I cast on for another cardigan with fewer stitches! Yes, it's knit on size one needles, but it's so tiny...<br />And I made a <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/blue-steps---baby-booties">bootie</a>!<br />I thought I'd have a nice belly shot for those of you interested, but it turns out that I need to familiarize myself with my camera's autofocus a little bit more. <br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treschic_veronique/3368575408/" title="Stupid autofocus. by treschic_veronique, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3647/3368575408_35c021601d.jpg" alt="Stupid autofocus. " width="500" height="334" /></a><br />Oops.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17970835.post-14577838293576878882009-03-13T13:41:00.003-04:002009-03-13T13:51:03.225-04:00Countdown: 10, NINE!9 weeks to go! I'm pregnant enough that people are now offering me their seat on the subway and the bus! That is quite the milestone in NYC.<br /><br />Not everything is coming up roses though: my modified<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/22-garter-yoke-cardigan"> garter yoke cardi</a> looks like crap. Entirely my fault.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treschic_veronique/3287787655/" title="Garter yoke cardi by treschic_veronique, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3640/3287787655_ce8341c70f.jpg" alt="Garter yoke cardi" width="334" height="500" /></a><br />I added gussets to the sides to accommodate my ever-expanding belly, but now it looks like a tent. It does not have the swinginess I'd anticipated. I'd much rather wear a regular cardigan and leave the bottom buttons open, just like for <a href="http://treschicveronique.blogspot.com/2009/02/happy-valentines-day.html">Lush & Lacy</a>...<br />I'm especially bummed because I've been using my precious <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/yarns/library/green-mountain-spinnery-new-mexico-organic">New Mexico Organic yarn</a> :(<br />And I'd even picked a cool stitch pattern:<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treschic_veronique/3288604438/" title="Garter yoke cardi by treschic_veronique, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3342/3288604438_937297aa0a.jpg" alt="Garter yoke cardi" width="500" height="334" /></a><br />I don't have the heart to rip this one. Maybe a time out in the WIP basket?Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17970835.post-9095951845093136452009-03-06T15:05:00.003-05:002009-03-06T15:31:18.969-05:0030 weeks?!Can you believe I'm 30 weeks pregnant? I don't know why I feel like 30 weeks is a turning point... (Maybe I'm confusing it with the big three oh?) I feel like now, I'm REALLY pregnant --you know, because for the past 7 months I've only been a little bit pregnant.<br /><br />Miraculously, I haven't experienced any of the horrible, awful, you're-barely-going-to-make-it symptoms that every pregnant lady with access to an online forum loves to scare you with (uh, knock on wood...).<br />Let me give you an example: I've read multiple posts about how the orange-flavored glucose drink you have to take for the gestational diabetes test is god-awful. As in, it tastes terrible, nobody can keep it down (can you visualize a pregnant woman vomiting all over a crowded waiting room?) and it makes them dizzy... Well, in reality, it's flat orange soda. What is the problem with flat orange soda?! Why all the hype? Sometimes the internet is a bad thing. Although... I read these forums to cheer myself up when I'm having a bad day!<br /><br />Anyway.<br />First and second trimester crafting inertia has finally disappeared, and I'm on a roll!<br />I made a <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/pea-pod-baby-set">Peapod Baby Cardigan</a> in <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/yarns/library/tess-designer-yarns-superwash-merino">Tess' Designer Yarn Superwash Merino</a> (purchased a <a href="http://brooklyngeneral.com/">Brooklyn General</a> a long time ago, in the yummiest shade of green, and awaiting the perfect project).<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treschic_veronique/3333909478/" title="Peapod and the beginnings of a quilt by treschic_veronique, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3658/3333909478_47a7662989.jpg" alt="Peapod and the beginnings of a quilt" width="500" height="367" /></a><br />I love it (even without buttons...), but I'm confused about the yardage requirements. The patterns states that ~500 yds are needed, and I had 560 yds in one hank (!!). I've used about half of the yarn. How is that possible? It's a knitting miracle!<br />And I started a baby quilt with vintage-looking fabric (from <a href="http://www.cityquilter.com/">The City Quilter</a>).<br /><br />I also made an <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/Veronique/angle-3">Angle cardi</a>. This is my third, love this pattern.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treschic_veronique/3288605202/" title="Angle by treschic_veronique, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3663/3288605202_e6e7775b9f.jpg" alt="Angle" width="500" height="366" /></a><br /><br />And I'm almost done with this Debbie Bliss cardigan (the<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/ribbon-edged-cardigan"> ribbon edge cardigan</a>, but I don't think I'll add a ribbon):<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treschic_veronique/3333071925/" title="Debbie Bliss Cardi by treschic_veronique, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3400/3333071925_d87efd73fc.jpg" alt="Debbie Bliss Cardi" width="500" height="386" /></a><br /><br />We've also been preparing the nursery. I cannot tell you how excited we are to get it all done! I'm covering a bumper with the cutest planet fabric (seen above), and making a sling baby carrier with some japanese robot fabric. Oh, and I got some sunny yellow fabric to make curtains.<br />Look! We got a crib! (Seeing <a href="http://amingledyarn.wordpress.com/2008/10/19/roll-up-for-the-magical-nursery-tour/">A Mingled Yarn's nursery</a> inspired us, and she gave some useful tips). <br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treschic_veronique/3333072119/" title="We have a crib! by treschic_veronique, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3384/3333072119_52ccbe3a07.jpg" alt="We have a crib!" width="500" height="334" /></a><br />Like I said, crafting mojo is BACK!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17970835.post-85725689698160858622009-02-17T16:24:00.003-05:002009-02-17T16:39:35.694-05:00Happy Valentine's Day!<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treschic_veronique/3288605648/" title="Lush and Lacy- with Honeybees! by treschic_veronique, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3492/3288605648_41dcf60958.jpg" alt="Lush and Lacy- with Honeybees!" width="358" height="500" /></a><br />I started this project, <a href="http://www.sweaterbabe.com/knitting-patterns/lush-and-lacy-cardigan-knitting-project.htm">Lush and Lacy</a> (<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/Veronique/70-lush-and-lacy-cardigan">Rav link</a>) a year ago. Yes, a whole year. Back then, I powered through the back and 2 fronts, and then the sleeves just seemed like too much work... I didn't like the flare and wanted to change that, but I'd already changed the lace pattern and my gauge was off. It was just too much... <br />Well, this week, as I was cleaning out my craft room to turn it into a nursery, I stumbled upon this abandoned project. And remembered that <a href="http://anabundanceoflisa.typepad.com/lisainnewyork/2009/01/lush-lacy-cardigan-revised.html">Lisa posted</a> about her Lush and Lacy recently, and that I loved hers. Back on track! I decided to make straight sleeves. Yup, straight. No increases, no decreases, just STRAIGHT. (I did have to recalculate the sleeve cap as the math was wrong for my size). Two days later, I was done. <br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treschic_veronique/3288605580/" title="Lush and Lacy- with Honeybees! by treschic_veronique, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3454/3288605580_6e2fc1619b.jpg" alt="Lush and Lacy- with Honeybees!" width="334" height="500" /></a><br />I finished seaming on Valentine's day and wore it all day. And that's when my husband noticed that the lace pattern looks like hearts! (All this time, I thought they were honeybees). How fitting.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17970835.post-11208717632787547782009-01-29T12:59:00.002-05:002009-01-29T13:34:51.507-05:00Blue, blue everywhere!Well, it seems that things are happening so fast around here that I can barely keep you updated!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Blue news #1:</span><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treschic_veronique/3237182700/" title="Engagement Ring by treschic_veronique, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3446/3237182700_6fc804635c_m.jpg" alt="Engagement Ring" width="240" height="208" /></a><br />A sapphire engagement ring! Followed on January 17th by a matching wedding band. Both were designed and made by Caroline Glemann and Michael Fitzgerald of <a href="http://www.studio174.com/">studio 174</a> in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. We gave them the sapphire, and they immediately came up with design ideas. A couple sketches, a mock-up ring in silver, and one month later, I had a ring on my finger. They rock.<br /><br />For the wedding, I wore <a href="http://treschicveronique.blogspot.com/2008/11/lace.html">my Hyrna Herbogar shawl</a>. I guess I'm superstitious, because I didn't want to tell you when I blogged about this FO that it was to be my wedding shawl... But I laugh about that now:<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treschic_veronique/3234907630/" title="10 by treschic_veronique, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3424/3234907630_b1e63b1384.jpg" alt="10" width="500" height="375" /></a><br />I also wore: orange earrings by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5298777">Sandra</a> and a <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/two-tone-ribbed-shrug">Two Toned Ribbed Shawl</a> (by Stefanie Japel in Fitted Knits), knit in a black cashmere blend. I had never knit with black yarn before! Did you know it was impossible to photograph? Yes, you probably did. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Blue news #2:</span><br />Bring on the baby blue yarn! We're having a boy!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17970835.post-88450191531393462122009-01-05T14:05:00.003-05:002009-01-05T14:47:16.256-05:00I can still knit!Oh yes I can!<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treschic_veronique/3170700827/" title="It took a year to make this scarf. by treschic_veronique, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1361/3170700827_fb5f7a9a08.jpg" alt="It took a year to make this scarf." width="333" height="500" /></a><br />I started this scarf a year ago, and let it take a time out for a while (check it out on <a href="http://flickr.com/photos/treschic_veronique/2182812969/">Jan 2008</a>). It's a 2 color star stitch with 40 sts, using <a href="http://fablehandknit.com/yarn.htm">Fable's Baby Alpaca</a> and a mohair/silk blend, on Addi lace size 6 needles. I've made one of <a href="http://treschicveronique.blogspot.com/2006/02/and-math-hates-rowan-right-back.html">these scarves</a> before, for my sister, but never got a chance to wear it... I had some left over Baby Alpaca from a yet-to-be-published pattern (you can see the book cover in <a href="http://www.bitterpurl.com/">Yahaira's sidebar</a>), and oh, it is so soft! It had to become something I could snuggle up with. Unfortunately, I used up tons of alpaca to make fringe, and don't have enough yarn to make a matching hat. Doh!<br />By the way, does that photo make me look pregnant? Does it?! I know it will soon become obvious, but I really wish I was showing more... Baby is kicking actively, I'm gaining weight, and I'd like to have something to show! <br /><br />Just before Christmas, I realized that I needed to craft at least one present. I decided to make 2, for a darling little girl named Daisy. (Yes, I already made her a <a href="http://treschicveronique.blogspot.com/2007/04/so-easy.html">Daisy hat</a>).<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treschic_veronique/3171533076/" title="Soto Softies Penguin by treschic_veronique, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1013/3171533076_10f63b84cd.jpg" alt="Soto Softies Penguin" width="333" height="500" /></a><br />The <a href="http://sotosofties.bigcartel.com/product/pattern-le-penguin-softie-pattern">Soto Softie Penguin pattern</a> was just what I needed. Except that my hand sewing looks like crap... Next time, I think I will machine sew the feet, legs and eyes to the body *before* assembling the penguin (instead of machine assembling the body and hand sewing the added body parts). The pattern is very well written, with little diagrams to show you exactly what to do! I always thought that sewing patterns needed diagrams.<br />Then, I had a moment of hesitation. What if Daisy doesn't like penguins? What if her parents think she might tear off a penguin limb and ingest it? (Which is entirely possible). This little hat came to the rescue!<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treschic_veronique/3171644366/" title="Daisy's Rainbow Owl hat by treschic_veronique, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1101/3171644366_ed735e23d8.jpg" alt="Daisy's Rainbow Owl hat" width="500" height="168" /></a><br />It's the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/who-2">Who? pattern</a>, found for free on Ravelry. I used double stranded <a href="http://www.habutextiles.com/webfile/a-89b.html">Habu Soft Wool</a> on size 6 needles, and it took about a couple of hours to make. And just as long to embroider 7 pairs of eyes in rainbow colors! This gift was, thankfully, a hit, as Daisy needed a new hat. (The penguin was a hit too; those large floppy feet inspired Daisy to make her penguin run all over my apartment, among 20 guests).Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17970835.post-25258843992012860662008-12-22T10:11:00.004-05:002008-12-22T10:50:59.540-05:00Woo hoo!!Some of you have noticed a decrease in my knitting productivity, and have been concerned enough to check up on me. It makes me feel all warm and fuzzy inside to have such good friends :)<br /><br />Here is the reason why I (temporarily) lost my knitting mojo:<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treschic_veronique/3128459230/" title="My baby at 12 weeks (on Oct 29th) by treschic_veronique, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3104/3128459230_c8263370a3.jpg" alt="My baby at 12 weeks (on Oct 29th)" width="500" height="372" /></a><br /><br />The picture above was taken at 12 weeks (around Halloween), and I am now at 19 weeks. Our next ultrasound is on Christmas eve, and we hope to find out the gender. Oh, we are so excited!<br /><br />And you'll be happy to know that my knitting mojo is slowly returning. I've made a hat from <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1596680733?ie=UTF8&tag=knittingschoo-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1596680733">Boutique Knits</a>, a scarf, I'm almost done with a shrug and I've started a maternity version of <a href="http://www.knittingschooldropout.com/">Knitting School Dropout</a>'s <a href="http://www.knittingschooldropout.com/2008/11/garter_love_the_sequel.htm">garter yoke cardigan</a> from <a href="http://www.knit1mag.com/">Knit1</a>. I would knit baby items, but I'd like to know if I should use blue yarn or pink yarn...Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17970835.post-22871696363823371112008-11-20T16:41:00.004-05:002008-11-20T16:54:43.268-05:00Lace!I'd had my eye on this gorgeous Icelandic shawl for a while. I almost choked when I saw that the book costs <a href="http://www.schoolhousepress.com/lace.htm">$45</a>, but I had to have it!<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treschic_veronique/3045979971/" title="Hyrna Herborgar by treschic_veronique, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3057/3045979971_0131a09cc9.jpg" alt="Hyrna Herborgar" width="500" height="333" /></a><br />Of course, it took a while to find the right yarn for this design... I finally settled on Habu's <a href="http://www.habutextiles.com/webfile/ns-28.html">super shiny, super slippery 100% silk</a>.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treschic_veronique/3045980215/" title="Hyrna Herborgar by treschic_veronique, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3028/3045980215_06232d227e.jpg" alt="Hyrna Herborgar" width="500" height="333" /></a><br />It's easy to knit with it, once you have filed your nails are completely snag free. Hey, at least I took good care of my nails while knitting this shawl!<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treschic_veronique/3046815192/" title="Hyrna Herborgar by treschic_veronique, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3151/3046815192_43c217be79.jpg" alt="Hyrna Herborgar" width="500" height="368" /></a><br />The pattern is completely charted out, which really helps visualize what you're about to do. Still, I messed up a couple of times and had to tink back occasionally. But, as with all lace knitting, you eventually find a groove :)<br />Details on Ravelry <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/Veronique/hyrna-herborgar">here</a>.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17970835.post-79662538697418562322008-11-05T16:09:00.006-05:002008-11-06T13:56:43.208-05:00Happy Blogiversary To Me!Well! So much has been going on... The usual culprits I'm afraid (work and ... work), but also a death in the family. I was so down, I didn't even go to to Rhinebeck. <br />Anyway. On to the good stuff. <br /><br />In order to celebrate the election and my third blogiversary (oops, it was on October 14th), here's a cowl pattern :)<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treschic_veronique/3005632603/" title="Tiny Bowknot Cowl by treschic_veronique, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3041/3005632603_416d0d2ec7.jpg" alt="Tiny Bowknot Cowl" height="491" width="500" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Yarn:</span> Koigu Kersti, 1.5 skeins, or about 160 yds. (Color K1110, dye lot 33). <br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Needles:</span> US5 (4.75mm) Addi circulars, 24". I tend to knit a little loose, so you might go up to a US 6 needle, which is what's recommended on the ball band. <br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Gauge:</span> 18 st=4". (Wow. Nowhere near the recommended ball band gauge of 22 st=4". I'm a rebel). <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Pattern:</span> Cast on 90 sts. Join in the round and work in garter st (knit one round, then purl one round) until you have 3 garter ridges (6 rounds total). Work in Baby Bowknot stitch pattern for 10" (or until you reach your desired height). Work 6 round in garter st, then bind off.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Baby Bowknot stitch pattern:</span><br />Rnd 1: knit.<br />Rnd 2: knit.<br />Rnd 3: *k3, p3* to end.<br />Rnd 4: *k3, p1, k1 in st below, p1* to end.<br />Rnd 5: knit.<br />Rnd 6: knit.<br />Rnd 7: *p3, k3* to end.<br />Rnd 8: *p1, k1 in st below, p1, k3* to end.<br />Repeat rnds 1-8.<br /><br />Although this stitch pattern may appear complicated (8 round per repeat?!), I promise that it is actually very intuitive. After one repeat, you will get it and not need to look at the pattern again!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treschic_veronique/3006467450/" title="Tiny Bowknot Cowl by treschic_veronique, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3290/3006467450_88f6beb1e4.jpg" alt="Tiny Bowknot Cowl" height="333" width="500" /></a><br /><br />The width of the cowl is 18-19". I made it deliberately narrower than <a href="http://sandraheartshearts.wordpress.com/2008/08/17/checking-in/">Sandra's La La Love You cowl</a> cause a girl needs options. Sometimes you want a loose cowl that can show off a brooch, sometimes you want something to hug your neck a little more... And also, this rust orange color goes well with my new gray winter coat. So there. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treschic_veronique/3005632377/" title="Tiny Bowknot Cowl by treschic_veronique, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3161/3005632377_fb46995be4.jpg" alt="Tiny Bowknot Cowl" height="333" width="500" /></a><br /><br />I'm now making matching fingerless gloves! <br />Oh, and I finished <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/hyrna-herborgar">Hyrna Herborgar</a> :)Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17970835.post-8576225057584633142008-09-26T13:03:00.003-04:002008-09-26T13:43:06.083-04:00I'm on a blue kick, apparentlySince I saw <a href="http://sknitty.wordpress.com/">Jillian</a>, I realized that I had one more skein of Malabrigo in Stone Blue, and I cranked another <a href="http://sandraheartshearts.wordpress.com/2008/08/17/checking-in/">La La Love You cowl</a> in about 2 hours (<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/Veronique/la-la-love-you-cowl-2">Ravelry deets</a>)<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treschic_veronique/2889619635/" title="La La Love You by treschic_veronique, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3093/2889619635_5b7e6d741f.jpg" alt="La La Love You" height="333" width="500" /></a><br /><br />What's that? Why, yes, I *did* get a new camera. I stupidly dropped <a href="http://www.usa.canon.com/consumer/controller?act=ModelInfoAct&fcategoryid=183&modelid=16336">my beloved point & shoot </a>and it broke. I was in denial, and went to several repair stores, convinced that someone could fix it for ~$40. Oh, I was so naive! Once reality sunk in, I briefly considered buying the same camera, but I've been dreaming of getting a digital SLR for a while now... So after a few emails to <a href="http://sandraheartshearts.wordpress.com/">Sandra</a> and <a href="http://theaddknitter.blogspot.com/">Heather</a>, I became the proud owner of a <a href="http://www.usa.canon.com/consumer/controller?act=ModelInfoAct&fcategoryid=139&modelid=14256">Canon Rebel XTi</a>! I definitely hyperventilated on my way out of the store, and I'm hoping this is not a big costly mistake...<br />I have to admit that I thought the manual settings on my P&S and the dSLR would be similar, and that the transition would be smooth. Uh, no. Most of the pictures do not come out as I intended, especially in low light... Good thing you can take a gazillion pictures and select the best one! I'm getting the hang of it, but s-l-o-w-l-y. <br /><br />Moving on...<br />I finished my second <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/esther-socks">Esther sock</a>! (<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/Veronique/esther-socks">Ravelry deets</a>). You might remember that I started the first one <a href="http://treschicveronique.blogspot.com/2007/09/blue-and-more-blue.html">last Summer</a>?<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treschic_veronique/2889615277/" title="Esther socks by treschic_veronique, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3186/2889615277_ebb4df9cbe.jpg" alt="Esther socks" height="333" width="500" /></a><br />For the first sock, I had maybe one foot of yarn left, but for the second sock....<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treschic_veronique/2890451740/" title="Esther socks by treschic_veronique, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3136/2890451740_585e079f0f.jpg" alt="Esther socks" height="333" width="500" /></a><br />Yikes!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17970835.post-33670998256219145212008-09-04T13:03:00.004-04:002008-09-04T13:18:07.620-04:00New, Better and ImprovedWhy finish old projects when you can buy yarn for new ones? And meet a knit blogging friend while you're at it?<br />When I heard that <a href="http://sknitty.wordpress.com/">Jillian</a> was going to be in town, I immediately sent her an email and promised I would show her a good time if she agreed to meet up with me. Thankfully, she agreed!<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treschic_veronique/2826126602/" title="Sknitty! by treschic_veronique, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3017/2826126602_523944b74f.jpg" alt="Sknitty!" height="500" width="375" /></a><br />(Yes, we both bought Purl totes. They rock).<br /><br />I must admit that I was not the best hostess: I didn't verify whether <a href="http://www.schoolproducts.com/">School Products</a> or <a href="http://www.habutextiles.com/">Habu</a> were going to be open. They were not. Oops!<br /><br />But! I did invite <a href="http://physicsknits.blogspot.com/">Connie</a> to join us AND I made Jillian a cowl, from a pattern that wasn't even out at the time (<a href="http://sandraheartshearts.wordpress.com/2008/08/17/checking-in/">Sandra's La La Love You Cowl</a>, pattern on <a href="http://www.popknits.com/index.php/patterns/page/la_la_love_you_cowl/">PopKnits</a> in Stone Blue Malabrigo). Surely that counts for something?<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treschic_veronique/2825264538/" title="La La Love You <3 by treschic_veronique, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3077/2825264538_8a6367e69d.jpg" alt="La La Love You <3" height="333" width="500" /></a><br />(By the way, I think that my gauge is wildly different from Sandra's, I had to cast on 24 fewer sts than she did. Am I such a loose knitter?).<br /><br />And then: fate! Jillian and I chose the same color of Koigu from <a href="http://www.purlsoho.com/purl">Purl</a>'s wall of Koigu! Internet friends are the best :)<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treschic_veronique/2827660227/" title="koigu! by treschic_veronique, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3247/2827660227_2a98fdd970.jpg" alt="koigu!" height="375" width="500" /></a><br />Jillian's yarn on the left, mine on the right. As we speak, it has started to become the <a href="http://www.pepperknit.com/patterns/tapestrycowl.html">Tapestry Cowl</a>, by <a href="http://pepperknit.com/blog/">Pepperknit</a>. But, uh, well, I might have to go down a needle size or 2...Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17970835.post-83574204101825750502008-08-26T16:17:00.003-04:002008-08-26T17:02:31.426-04:00Red BambooAfter many false starts with other projects (<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/Veronique/chinese-style-pullover">Habu's Chinese Top Pullover</a>, the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/Veronique/flutter-sleeve-cardigan">Flutter Sleeve cardi</a>, <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/Veronique/70-lush-and-lacy-cardigan">Lush & Lacy</a>, <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/Veronique/balloon-sleeve-jacket">Olga's jacket</a>--all shamefully semi-abandoned WIPs), there is finally one that caught my interest long enough to actually complete it.<br />Presenting...... <a href="http://www.kategilbert.com/p_camellia.html">Kate Gilbert's Camellia</a>! (Deets on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/Veronique/camellia">my Ravelry page</a>). <br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treschic_veronique/2786830957/" title="Red Bamboo Camellia by treschic_veronique, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3078/2786830957_08bfcb1d43.jpg" alt="Red Bamboo Camellia" height="500" width="332" /></a><br />One good thing about the lag between uploading my pictures on Flickr and an actual post on my blog? I already know what you're going to ask! In this case, let's cut to the chase: Swedish <a href="http://www.svensclogs.com/">Sven clogs</a> purchased at <a href="http://brooklynrefinery.com/">Refinery</a> in Brooklyn. I believe that they design their own Sven clogs based on all the various elements that Sven offers: different heel heights, colors of wood, color of leather and shape of cutouts. The possibilities are endless! You can also make your own clogs from scratch <a href="http://www.svenbeach.com/">here</a>.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treschic_veronique/2786857203/" title="Red Bamboo Camellia-- neck detail by treschic_veronique, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3030/2786857203_0a30a7e06b.jpg" alt="Red Bamboo Camellia-- neck detail" height="500" width="402" /></a><br />This neckline goes well with my <a href="http://www.figsandginger.com/">Figs & Ginger necklace</a>, don't you think?<br /><br />I made 3 sleeves for this top: originally, I thought that the cap sleeve would look better on me than the flutter sleeves, but that was not the case. Flutter sleeves it is!<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treschic_veronique/2800672864/" title="Camellia sleeve by treschic_veronique, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2009/2800672864_e2a31164a2.jpg" alt="Camellia sleeve" height="500" width="375" /></a><br /><br />Final verdict? Overwhelmingly positive! The bamboo yarn was so soft and silky that I didn't mind its lack of elasticity. This top had just enough lace to keep me entertained but not too much so that it would become a chore. I'm just hoping that the bamboo won't stretch out too much...<br /><br />And finally, I have to give a shout out to <a href="http://aidoann.typepad.com/carenknits/">Caren</a>, who I found through <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/">Ravelry</a>. She very kindly sold me one ball of SWTC Bamboo yarn in the same dye lot, which I desperately needed.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17970835.post-63570740637861288492008-08-18T15:18:00.003-04:002008-08-18T15:50:36.080-04:00What I Did While On Vacation In Maine --Part III bought yarn. Oh yes I did.<br />I came prepared, as I had read <a href="http://www.carrieoke.net/2008/07/shetland_triangle_done.html">Carrieoke's review </a>of the Portland, Maine LYSs.<br /><br />Let's break it down:<br />You know the stores that sell the good ol' yarn staples? Cascade 220, the whole Rowan collection, a smattering of sock yarn? These stores feel like home. Such was <a href="http://www.yarnonthebrain.com/">Knit Wit</a>, in Portland Maine. There was even a sale on <a href="http://www.knitrowan.com/html/yarn_results_detail.asp?productcode=121758&groupno=121">Kidsilk Aura</a>, which the owner remarked had not been a great seller. I got 7 balls at 50% off! This is a heavier version of my much beloved Kidsilk haze, but with crummy yardage (82 yds a ball). I hope I can eke out a lacy sweater or bolero out of this.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treschic_veronique/2756931011/" title="7 balls of Kidsilk Aura by treschic_veronique, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3220/2756931011_f907241489.jpg" alt="7 balls of Kidsilk Aura" height="375" width="500" /></a><br /><br />Then, I went to <a href="http://www.tessdesigneryarns.com/">Tess' Designer yarns</a> (also in Portland). This yarn is somewhat hard to find in stores, and the colors are just so fantastically saturated! This is not the kind of store that sells notions (as Carrieoke noticed), nor the kind of stores where the employees know how to knit. In fact, the employee will be more interested in chatting with a friend than with you, one of two customers. But the yarn! Oh, the yarn is so lovely...<br />I got 2 skeins of laceweight merino in a buttery yellow.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treschic_veronique/2756931105/" title="Laceweight from Tess' Designer yarns by treschic_veronique, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3217/2756931105_9f39e17182_m.jpg" alt="Laceweight from Tess' Designer yarns" height="240" width="180" /></a><br />And a skein of sock yarn in eye-searing magenta.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treschic_veronique/2757764448/" title="Sock yarn from Tess' Designer yarn by treschic_veronique, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3009/2757764448_c76019262d_m.jpg" alt="Sock yarn from Tess' Designer yarn" height="180" width="240" /></a><br /><br />Finally, I stumbled upon <a href="http://www.romneyridgefarm.com/">a real Maine yarn store</a>. I found it by following a sign on the side of the road that said, simply: "yarn". (Well, actually, I may have yelled out "YARN!!!" and forced my boyfriend to follow the sign). We drove up to a house, where several dogs and a duck enthusiastically greeted us. The owner showed us her sheep --yes, from which her yarn is made--:<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treschic_veronique/2756891429/" title="Sheep in Woolwich by treschic_veronique, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3248/2756891429_74e838d161.jpg" alt="Sheep in Woolwich" height="375" width="500" /></a><br />then guided us to a garden shed -- aka the store:<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treschic_veronique/2757723956/" title="Woolwich wool shop by treschic_veronique, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3079/2757723956_92d07bd525.jpg" alt="Woolwich wool shop" height="500" width="375" /></a><br />She has some award-winning yarns:<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treschic_veronique/2757724218/" title="Woolwich wool shop by treschic_veronique, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3089/2757724218_6b1c4af226.jpg" alt="Woolwich wool shop" height="375" width="500" /></a><br />It was only later, when I looked at my receipt, that I realized we had been in Woolwich, Maine. Fate! <br />After all of this yarn shopping, I could not justify stopping by <a href="http://www.halcyonyarn.com/">Halcyon Yarn</a>, in Bath, Maine or <a href="http://www.seaportyarn.com/">Seaport Yarns</a> (in Portland and NYC)... This just means we'll have to go back :)Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17970835.post-20233645910156743562008-08-14T15:37:00.002-04:002008-08-14T15:43:25.454-04:00What I Did While On Vacation In Maine - Part II ate lobster.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treschic_veronique/2757695480/" title="What I Did In Maine by treschic_veronique, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3264/2757695480_282de574b1.jpg" alt="What I Did In Maine" height="375" width="500" /></a><br /><br />I ate lobster rolls.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treschic_veronique/2756890811/" title="Lobster roll by treschic_veronique, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3166/2756890811_ea1296073f.jpg" alt="Lobster roll" height="375" width="500" /></a><br /><br />I bought live lobsters.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treschic_veronique/2757749980/" title="Dinner by treschic_veronique, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3143/2757749980_834c9bbbdb.jpg" alt="Dinner" height="375" width="500" /></a><br /><br />I watched cats sniff lobster butts.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/treschic_veronique/2757750302/" title="Heh. by treschic_veronique, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3051/2757750302_b754cf1379.jpg" alt="Heh. " height="375" width="500" /></a><br /><br />Stay tuned for part II: Maine yarn!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0