tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-61990428697579929212024-02-06T22:57:45.920-06:00Flours & FibersEmilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12976650930829848961noreply@blogger.comBlogger89125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6199042869757992921.post-14958164801784986572015-01-15T19:21:00.002-06:002016-08-04T18:56:20.906-05:00One Step Closer...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />Laura ( Flours and Fibers)http://www.blogger.com/profile/17027281140267592744noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6199042869757992921.post-41779858014935073972015-01-10T16:51:00.000-06:002016-08-04T18:56:05.642-05:00The Convent (Part VI)Each January, a small group of friends and family gather at an old convent for a weekend of quilting, knitting, eating, and relaxing.<br />
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I'm especially looking forward to this year's gathering, as little Rosemary will be joining us! She was a real trooper at the Knit & Knot retreat this fall, and I'm hoping she is as content at the Convent as she was at Camp Wyoming! I'm sure there will be no shortage of welcoming arms for her to rest in.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rosie in the Christmas bunting and hat set she scored <br />
at the Knit & Knot retreat this past November!</td></tr>
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In a break with tradition, I've decided to quilt this year. Normally, I'd just pack 10 or 12 of my current knitting works-in-progress, and call it a day, but this year I'm really making an effort to organize and reduce the amount of things we store in our home. Don't tell Paul, but there is currently 3 or 4 bins of old T-shirts in our basement that I cannot bring myself to get rid of. So I've given myself a goal: All nostalgic T-shirts must be transformed into functional household items by the end of 2015 or out they go!<br />
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If there is one thing I'm better at than procrastination, it's giving sentimental value to items from my past. I'm hoping that by pitting these two character strengths (ha!) against each other I'll be able to complete two picnic quilts this year.<br />
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Now I just need to find a couple of quilt patterns!<br />
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<br />Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07232899182277793840noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6199042869757992921.post-89724349146821881142014-07-31T15:48:00.004-05:002016-08-04T19:06:19.575-05:002nd Annual Fall Knitting Retreat: Hosted by Knit & Knot!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The time has come to start thinking about the Annual Fall Knitting Retreat hosted by <a href="http://knitandknotyarn.com/">Knit & Knot</a>. Joy and I have been working hard on the details for this year's retreat and we couldn't be more excited! We are returning to the lovely <a href="http://campwyoming.net/">Camp Wyoming</a> for our fall getaway and hopefully the weather will be just as beautiful as it was last year.<br />
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Now that we have a couple of retreats under our belts, we are taking the most successful components from each retreat and combining them for a fun and relaxing weekend of crafting and friendship.<br />
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We are also trying a couple of new ideas, such as extending the retreat hours, having a specific retreat project to start and finish(!) at the retreat, and even having special t-shirts printed, just for retreat participants!<br />
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Another things to look forward to at this year's retreat is the Marketplace, where we will be debuting exclusive new yarns not yet available at Knit & Knot. We will have some samples worked up with the new yarns, as well as suggestions for projects. You can also enjoy 10% off any items purchased at the Marketplace during the retreat.<br />
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Massages are also coming back! We started this at the spring retreat, and we are happy to report it was a huge hit! <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Shangri-la-Salon-Day-Spa/113091872054252">Steven</a> has agreed to return as the retreat masseuse. We will be raffling off four (4) massages, and he will be available for additional appointments as well. This was a wonderful addition to our last retreat!<br />
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We will also continue free technique demonstrations throughout the weekend. Some ideas we've tossed around include: applied I-cord, duplicate stitch, wet blocking (always impressive!) and steam blocking (much faster than wet blocking!). If you have any ideas of techniques you'd like to see demonstrated at the retreat, let us know in the comments below or on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/knitandknot">Facebook</a> or<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/groups/knit--knot"> Ravelry</a>!<br />
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Of course, raffles, give-aways, a yarn swap and show & tell will continue to be part of the weekend as well!<br />
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A final note, before I leave you with the details, Baby Girl St. Louis will be in attendance this year, as she will be too little for me to leave her, and I can't miss all the fun! Don't worry though, Grandma Tina (my mom) will be coming along too, and when she's not knitting, she'll be helping with the baby! As much as we know many people find babies generally adorable, we also know not everyone may be keen on a newborn tagging along on their weekend of relaxation. So we want you all to be aware of her presence before you register! With that being said, here are the details:<br />
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<b>Date</b>: Friday, November 7th, 2014, NOON to Sunday, November 9th, 2014, 3 PM.<br />
<b>Location</b>: Camp Wyoming, 9016 42nd Ave, Wyoming, IA, Owl's Nest Cabin<br />
<b>Cost</b>: $200/ person, for a double occupancy room from now until September 30th. Prices increase to $230/ person on October 1st.<br />
<b>How to register</b>: Pay with cash, check or credit card at Knit & Knot, 3359 Devils Glen Rd, Bettendorf, IA<br />
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Call the shop, 563-332-7378, with any questions. Can't wait to see you there!Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07232899182277793840noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6199042869757992921.post-91608467838114053442014-02-20T19:46:00.001-06:002014-02-20T19:46:17.481-06:002014 Spring Retreat: Knit & Knot!I've got exciting news to share today. <a href="http://knitandknotyarn.com/">We</a> are planning another knitting and crocheting retreat for this spring! We had a great time at the Fall Retreat last November and we can't wait for another relaxing weekend!<br />
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We've decided to change venues for the spring (but we are excited to head back to <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Camp-Wyoming/212710705412765">Camp Wyoming</a> this fall!). The next retreat will take place at beautiful <a href="http://www.strongholdcenter.org/facilities_images/heritage.html">Heritage Lodge</a> at the <a href="http://www.strongholdcenter.org/index.html">Stronghold Retreat Center</a>, located in Oregon, IL.<br />
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Registration is open now, at <a href="http://knitandknotyarn.com/">Knit & Knot</a>! So stop by the store and reserve your spot today! Spots are filling up quickly!<br />
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Details are below:<br />
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Dates: Friday, May 2, 2014 to Sunday, May 4, 2014<br />
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Time: 4 pm Friday to 2 pm Sunday<br />
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Cost: $200 for a double occupancy room with attached bath.<br />
$270 for single room with private bath.<br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.559999465942383px;">Food: Meals are provided (Saturday Breakfast through Sunday Lunch). You make bring any snacks you’d like. There is a kitchenette at our disposal.</span><br style="color: #222222; font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.559999465942383px;" /><br style="color: #222222; font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.559999465942383px;" /><span style="color: #222222; font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.559999465942383px;">Lodging: The lodge has 15 rooms with two twin beds and an attached bathroom. </span><br style="color: #222222; font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.559999465942383px;" /><br style="color: #222222; font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.559999465942383px;" /><span style="color: #222222; font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.559999465942383px;">Accomodations: All linens and towels are provided. </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><br style="color: #222222; font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.559999465942383px;" /><span style="color: #222222; font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.559999465942383px;">Transportation: The store will not be providing organized transportation. However, if you’d like to carpool with other attendees, we will gather phone numbers and emails to share. Please call, email or stop by the store, if you’d like to share this information. </span><br style="color: #222222; font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.559999465942383px;" /><br style="color: #222222; font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.559999465942383px;" /><span style="color: #222222; font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.559999465942383px;">Knit & Knot</span><br style="color: #222222; font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.559999465942383px;" /><span style="color: #222222; font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.559999465942383px;">(563) 332-7378 </span><br style="color: #222222; font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.559999465942383px;" /><span style="color: #222222; font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.559999465942383px;">3359 Devils Glen Road </span><br style="color: #222222; font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.559999465942383px;" /><span style="color: #222222; font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.559999465942383px;">Bettendorf, IA 52722</span></span><br />
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We can't wait to see you!!<br />
<br />Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07232899182277793840noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6199042869757992921.post-15368944244821961202013-12-30T20:45:00.002-06:002013-12-31T12:32:37.581-06:00New Happenings in the New YearAs the year comes to a close, all of us at <a href="http://knitandknotyarn.com/">Knit & Knot</a> have been busy planning new patterns, classes and events. First though, I'd like to introduce a couple of new patterns that are now available. The first is a free download for a quick knitted ornament.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEN-jXD-XEhTSow3qf61CPdApMMAMpYhIQv88a2kDb0E9UB8hhSZuuK3tyzGyvTPWH5N4Yk6vY5Rrk-EL8oVo6JcLC2sH2taMkaXbWtHGyXnV4hN1_8o222s_oXFVpkNEzFHgMQD9y32rU/s1600/mittens.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEN-jXD-XEhTSow3qf61CPdApMMAMpYhIQv88a2kDb0E9UB8hhSZuuK3tyzGyvTPWH5N4Yk6vY5Rrk-EL8oVo6JcLC2sH2taMkaXbWtHGyXnV4hN1_8o222s_oXFVpkNEzFHgMQD9y32rU/s320/mittens.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Warm Woolen Mittens, FREE pattern. <br />
Sample knit with Lanaloft, in the Roasted Pepper colorway.</td></tr>
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This pattern can be downloaded directly from the sidebar to the right, or from my <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/sources/laura-st-louis-ravelry-store">Ravelry Pattern Store</a>. It can be knit in about an hour, so if you get started now, you could add them to all your Christmas presents next year!<br />
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The second pattern that I've recently published is the Pekin Watch Cap. This pattern is for a simple, sophisticated "ear-flap" hat, that can be knit with less than one skein of Malabrigo Worsted. The "ear-flaps" are created by adding short rows.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhljYOYPHyCc6upXb50fb7HDObxCuRZNRpOcqRzO1n6Dy8ibNftKF7nuhgrtPWs6VnV9yXbbjmovnQav6Lt5ixY2a3ISlT345q3EaehNwkHpopC41YIvIVNNjXujf9Xu8bCeMcl8-S_4IUV/s1600/pekin1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhljYOYPHyCc6upXb50fb7HDObxCuRZNRpOcqRzO1n6Dy8ibNftKF7nuhgrtPWs6VnV9yXbbjmovnQav6Lt5ixY2a3ISlT345q3EaehNwkHpopC41YIvIVNNjXujf9Xu8bCeMcl8-S_4IUV/s320/pekin1.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pekin Watch Cap<br />
Sample Knit with Malabrigo Worsted, in the Vaa Colorway</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Short rows are used to make the back<br />
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The Pekin Watch Cap can be purchased through my <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/sources/laura-st-louis-ravelry-store">Ravelry Pattern Store</a> or in print at <a href="http://knitandknotyarn.com/">Knit & Knot</a>.<br />
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I also have several classes coming up. I will be teaching a two part, Two-at-a-Time Sock Class on January 25 and February 8th. On February 22nd, I will be teaching a class on short rows using the Pekin Watch Cap pattern. The details are at the top of this page. You can register by calling Knit & Knot at (563) 332-7378. You can find all of the classes offered at Knit and Knot by visiting their <a href="http://knitandknotyarn.com/our-yarns/">Classes</a> page or calling the store.<br />
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Starting January 14th, I will be working at Knit & Knot on Tuesday evenings from 5pm to 8pm. Stop by to sit and knit with me. That would also be a great time to schedule a lesson, if you have been thinking about it!<br />
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So grab your knitting project, enjoy these last days of 2013, and have a very happy New Year!Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07232899182277793840noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6199042869757992921.post-15950612952360080232013-10-15T09:25:00.001-05:002013-10-15T09:30:29.358-05:00Knit & Knot: Fall Retreat Details!The retreat will soon be here! Below are some of the details. If you are thinking about joining us, sign up soon! The registration deadline is this Friday!!<br />
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Dates: November 1st-3rd, 2013. <br />
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Time: Friday, 4:00 PM - Sunday, 2 PM. First meal will be served at 6:30 PM on Friday.<br />
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Location: Camp Wyoming <br />
9106 42nd Avenue <br />
Wyoming, IA 52362<br />
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Payment: Total cost for the retreat is $175. Down payment to hold your spot is $50. Payment can be cash or check made out to Joy. Final payment is due November 1st (the first day of the retreat).<br />
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Food: Meals are provided (Friday Dinner through Sunday Lunch). You make bring any snacks you’d like. There is a full kitchen at our disposal.<br />
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Lodging: The lodge has 15 rooms with two twin beds. If all rooms are not filled at the time of the conference, you may spread out and claim a room all to yourself!<br />
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Accomodations: All linens and towels are provided. The kitchen is fully stocked with dishes.<br />
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Transportation: The store will not be providing organized transportation. However, if you’d like to carpool with other attendees, we will gather phone numbers and emails to share. Please call, email or stop by the store, if you’d like to share this information. <br />
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Knit & Knot<br />
(563) 332-7378 <br />
3359 Devils Glen Road <br />
Bettendorf, IA 52722<br />
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Registration Deadline: The deadline for registration is FRIDAY OCTOBER 18th. We need to provide head counts for food at the end of the day. You may register by dropping off your down payment at Knit & Knot (see contact infomation above).<br />
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Hope to see you thereLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07232899182277793840noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6199042869757992921.post-83110767800604170762013-08-23T12:34:00.001-05:002013-08-23T13:32:20.590-05:00Fall Knitting Retreat! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtxbNR2-YT6RPNnQxkYlMKPFEc-vVYpxr1qGnPZ15gLUcJY2-F9eEiunZojDpIfHLcPoZ0TumGqKKc-IB0Q-F7XmrXlgRtxb8wDl-mFb0BbprrJgoayKrNHl65NyfL35QvsQ63j5BuiKsN/s1600/retreat+header+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="136" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtxbNR2-YT6RPNnQxkYlMKPFEc-vVYpxr1qGnPZ15gLUcJY2-F9eEiunZojDpIfHLcPoZ0TumGqKKc-IB0Q-F7XmrXlgRtxb8wDl-mFb0BbprrJgoayKrNHl65NyfL35QvsQ63j5BuiKsN/s400/retreat+header+2.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">I have some more exciting new to share today. </span><a href="http://knitandknotyarn.com/"><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">Knit & Knot</span></a><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"> is hosting a knitting retreat this November! It is being planned by yours truly and my friend Joy, who happens to be the owner of Knit & Knot :). </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">Here are the important details:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Dates:</strong> Friday Afternoon, November 1st through Sunday Afternoon, November 3rd, 2013</span><br />
<strong><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">Location:</span></strong><a href="http://www.campwyoming.net/"><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"> Camp Wyoming</span></a><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">, Wyoming, IA. The </span><a href="https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B0VwUEmtQUX-bXN4SUtLcDIxLWs/edit?usp=sharing"><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">Owls Nest Lodge</span></a><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">, to be exact.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Cost:</strong> $175. There is a $50 deposit to hold your place.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Accomodations:</strong> The cost includes a single bed in a double occupancy room and six meals (Friday dinner through Sunday lunch.) There will also be a goody bag with a couple of make and take projects provided!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">We are planning several events, but the major goal of the weekend is to relax and do whatever you feel like doing. Very low-key. All events are optional, but we hope you decide to participate in a few!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">The events we are currently planning are:</span><br />
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;">Block Party!</span></strong> <br />
Learn the ins and outs of blocking your finished items. Laura and Joy will demonstrate various techniques. Bring a finished item to block, if you like!<br />
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;">Last Chance KAL or CAL.</span></strong><br />
Have you started one of our Knit or Crochet –A-Longs but never finished? Well here is your chance! Finish one of our KAL or CAL projects during the retreat and be entered for a chance to win a Knit&Knot gift certificate!<br />
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;">Make and Take Needle Felted Ornament.</span></strong><br />
This quick project will leave you dreaming up more ways to create charming needle felted projects. All materials provided!<br />
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;">Make and Take Knitted Ornament.</span></strong><br />
Get into the holiday spirit with a quick knitted ornament project. All materials provided! <br />
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;">Show and Tell.</span></strong><br />
Bring something you are especially proud of or maybe even something that you need a little encouragement to finish.<br />
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;">Knit Doctor.</span></strong><br />
Laura and Joy will be available throughout the weekend to answer your knitting and crochet questions.<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style","serif"; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">To reserve your spot, stop by Knit & Knot (3359 Devils Glen Rd., Bettendorf, IA) to place your deposit of $50. Payment may be cash or check payable to Joy Povich. You may cancel before October 15th for a refund. If you have any questions, please call 563-332-7378. Hope to see you there!</span></span><br />
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</span></span><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style","serif"; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><strong></strong></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style","serif"; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><strong></strong></span></span></span><br />Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07232899182277793840noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6199042869757992921.post-5932447428123830332013-08-19T11:05:00.002-05:002013-08-19T11:05:51.704-05:00It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas...At least in the St. Louis household, it is. I have been working on developing an intarsia Christmas stocking pattern for the last few weeks. I'm very excited, because on Saturday, I will be debuting this pattern to a full(!) class of future stocking knitters at <a href="http://knitandknotyarn.com/our-yarns/">Knit & Knot</a>! Here are some photos of this work-in-progress:<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5K2aX8-lFlFs853T0Dmx6FFvB_BZAH9PyjhWQL62faDidhh7gPBCMnwjeoMT2hBC9U5-SW0ZW9EN2QKiiFBKQ6BDVVOsZ-6Gb3N1tXZUQy6JsiEY3zORmwqZBCULdVUVcWfONRRWUCiVo/s1600/snomann2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5K2aX8-lFlFs853T0Dmx6FFvB_BZAH9PyjhWQL62faDidhh7gPBCMnwjeoMT2hBC9U5-SW0ZW9EN2QKiiFBKQ6BDVVOsZ-6Gb3N1tXZUQy6JsiEY3zORmwqZBCULdVUVcWfONRRWUCiVo/s320/snomann2.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="hps">Snømann</span> Stocking prototype and chart. <br />Yarn is Brown Sheep Co. Lanaloft.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj81WjW-_ijEg8_RXiYuuB1V81j5IAhC_vmMcbv6A8xjPeHIAWQnPiIXF79dE3y3ydOTlxhsfmYt7dWs4BUPZDv96lHS_UYn9HKhjd1C3LOh5rW0mlKmRxDPsxp3smzralFzPQeg5uMZR8F/s1600/snomann.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj81WjW-_ijEg8_RXiYuuB1V81j5IAhC_vmMcbv6A8xjPeHIAWQnPiIXF79dE3y3ydOTlxhsfmYt7dWs4BUPZDv96lHS_UYn9HKhjd1C3LOh5rW0mlKmRxDPsxp3smzralFzPQeg5uMZR8F/s320/snomann.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Intarsia complete! <br />
The trees will be added later, with duplicate stitch embroidery.</td></tr>
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Stay tuned for future class dates and the pattern release!Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07232899182277793840noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6199042869757992921.post-77536824584018726052013-08-07T20:48:00.000-05:002013-08-07T20:48:01.742-05:00Flours and Fibers Enters a New EraAfter years of casually blogging about my knitting adventures (and some of Emily's baking adventures), I've started a new chapter of the Flours and Fibers story. I now have some knitting patterns available for sale on both <span id="goog_629950311"></span><a href="http://www.blogger.com/">Ravelry</a> <span id="goog_629950312"></span>and <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/floursandfibers?ref=si_shop" target="_blank">Etsy</a>. Both stores offer instant download of the PDF patterns, although Ravelry has the added bonus of adding the pattern to your Ravelry Library.<br />
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The patterns currently available are the previously mentioned <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/dragonfly-lace-dishcloth" target="_blank">Dragonfly Lace Dishcloth</a> and the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/sweetheart-trivet" target="_blank">Sweetheart Trivet</a>. Both of these patterns were developed to be used in my knitting classes at <a href="http://knitandknotyarn.com/" target="_blank">Knit & Knot</a>. <br />
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The Sweetheart Trivet utilizes the technique of double knitting to create a thick trivet or hotpad. I used Bartlettyarns, worsted weight, in Peach Heather and Oatmeal for the sample. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjE1oOhP5grIqRoIo32N7G8u-bZlQLrGmOcnVWPv8i2Vh-YSHRFs3zX4LBmKI9Eha-2MESMa5CCXTqGWigEggj5KPJdTCgHctat1iocH3s5bEZfzc5oTOUPpo6l5D9kSHTlDqtkHVguH5z/s1600/SAM_0634.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjE1oOhP5grIqRoIo32N7G8u-bZlQLrGmOcnVWPv8i2Vh-YSHRFs3zX4LBmKI9Eha-2MESMa5CCXTqGWigEggj5KPJdTCgHctat1iocH3s5bEZfzc5oTOUPpo6l5D9kSHTlDqtkHVguH5z/s320/SAM_0634.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sweetheart Trivet - Double Knit in Bartlettyarns Worsted</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3uWgTSTmI5WXD8mpF69hNf7UWkMth3m2TLuA03njrUTpAWXgguYfpLckgxD2lZQTojJSRJuLgJfpDCgqpfQdEGlR0x1PPGE2uNwH3lCwwKdTGHhQATAumZTK2nn8KzaEPfbum9zkmJBvL/s1600/SAM_0635.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3uWgTSTmI5WXD8mpF69hNf7UWkMth3m2TLuA03njrUTpAWXgguYfpLckgxD2lZQTojJSRJuLgJfpDCgqpfQdEGlR0x1PPGE2uNwH3lCwwKdTGHhQATAumZTK2nn8KzaEPfbum9zkmJBvL/s320/SAM_0635.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The colorwork in double knitting is reversed on opposite sides.</td></tr>
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The Dragonfly Lace Dishcloth sample was knit in Peaches and Cream Cotton (worsted) in Bright Aqua.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuCOtX8-Tq5R16q9y7cOD4IutytRURNqpVUdltbeqx6Zp9WJ10CO-wXfYu9xnEupapsNSzLMB8qIcTd9qmCAjcUwbDqSyfHvivoaXnCNHdvNT_gErq4PUAjkilhclS9rJ3vhxky48wefWi/s1600/dragonlace2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuCOtX8-Tq5R16q9y7cOD4IutytRURNqpVUdltbeqx6Zp9WJ10CO-wXfYu9xnEupapsNSzLMB8qIcTd9qmCAjcUwbDqSyfHvivoaXnCNHdvNT_gErq4PUAjkilhclS9rJ3vhxky48wefWi/s320/dragonlace2.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dragonfly Lace Dishcloth</td></tr>
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In addition to the patterns for sale, I also have a very beginner pattern available for free download, <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/roll-brim-hat---intro-to-knitting" target="_blank">Roll Brim Hat - Intro to Knitting</a>.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMNKlnDdkDvvBQul-v5xUZYd-w80BUc7J_Vlyi730tjAPXOS0V1RLr1CaOq0sgTDpPHzu9RCAgeGuUJU9jj_C5r69iGQGuCBPtRJo4mVcq5fgplHjVTJGegQzHsf0zArNSHe5-CgLxHAGz/s1600/march+17+021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMNKlnDdkDvvBQul-v5xUZYd-w80BUc7J_Vlyi730tjAPXOS0V1RLr1CaOq0sgTDpPHzu9RCAgeGuUJU9jj_C5r69iGQGuCBPtRJo4mVcq5fgplHjVTJGegQzHsf0zArNSHe5-CgLxHAGz/s320/march+17+021.JPG" width="301" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Roll Brim Hat</td></tr>
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The updates also extend to this site. Links to the patterns discussed above can be found on the sidebar to the right. I will continue to update the sidebar as additional patterns become available. I also added a <a href="http://www.floursandfibers.com/p/classes.html" target="_blank">Classes</a> page to the site. Here you can see a calendar with all of my currently planned classes. I usually teach at least two classes a month at Knit & Knot. And finally, you can now reach this site by typing <a href="http://www.floursandfibers.com/">www.floursandfibers.com</a> as well as the old BlogSpot address. We are growing up!!<br />
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Laura ( Flours and Fibers)http://www.blogger.com/profile/17027281140267592744noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6199042869757992921.post-9022362982498401422013-08-01T20:58:00.000-05:002013-08-01T20:58:40.668-05:00It's official! First pattern release: Dragonfly Lace!I've joined the ranks of "real" pattern designers, as I've published my first pattern availabe for sale and instant download on Ravelry! <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcfuKkIgMUtRnZt0XiFYujMuShS81CEXvj5mckcK2TK-f51ICchaSuy5bmO9f4AYO6-ey8c7w0ubVq-7nSuGjoRHdEqVglW1BVphrH6TPE9IJYjxM99Da-5Dy-roJ5Zn8ML5e1GhIzWBaZ/s1600/dragonlace2_medium2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcfuKkIgMUtRnZt0XiFYujMuShS81CEXvj5mckcK2TK-f51ICchaSuy5bmO9f4AYO6-ey8c7w0ubVq-7nSuGjoRHdEqVglW1BVphrH6TPE9IJYjxM99Da-5Dy-roJ5Zn8ML5e1GhIzWBaZ/s320/dragonlace2_medium2.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dragonfly Lace Dishcloth</td></tr>
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In my teaching gig at Knit and Knot, I frequently design short(ish) projects to demonstrate techniques during classes. The<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/dragonfly-lace" target="_blank"> <em>Dragonfly Lace Dishcloth</em></a> was designed as an introduction to lace, yarnovers, bobbles and cables. The pattern includes a chart and explanations for each technique used.<br />
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I was surprised at how easy it was to set up a pattern shop on Ravelry. Kind of makes me wonder why I didn't do this sooner! I have a few more patterns in the works, so hopefully the shop will grow soon!<br />
Laura ( Flours and Fibers)http://www.blogger.com/profile/17027281140267592744noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6199042869757992921.post-50922381953835200982013-07-11T21:09:00.002-05:002013-07-11T21:14:57.304-05:00DistractionI should be doing housework, but I keep thinking about making more of these:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMODDDVmGriN80mbHpFPep-qMKQw8JOkLY-QRanMzu8QTeZ68ioQFaWQZYAx6oZZAVsW-4cZO8aoGIZcHkMCyhbnC3k4JfEQlyS0CFoIm7waXjPc9gPxLOKLxhL2TLPurox_wpvqTurELp/s1600/pileofpotholders.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="338" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMODDDVmGriN80mbHpFPep-qMKQw8JOkLY-QRanMzu8QTeZ68ioQFaWQZYAx6oZZAVsW-4cZO8aoGIZcHkMCyhbnC3k4JfEQlyS0CFoIm7waXjPc9gPxLOKLxhL2TLPurox_wpvqTurELp/s400/pileofpotholders.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Last summer on vacation, I picked up a <a href="http://www.harrisville.com/potholderloops-s/1847.htm" target="_blank">Harrisville Designs</a> Potholder Loom. I had a plastic loom when I was a kid, but this one is made out of metal and is a lot sturdier. The loom also comes with cotton loops. I love the fact that the potholders are 100% cotton, but the cotton loops are a little trickier to work with than the stretchy, nylon kind. This summer, I found more of the cotton loops in Madison at <a href="http://capitolkids.com/" target="_blank">Capitol Kids</a>, and inspiration struck!<br />
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I've had a lot of fun experimenting with different patterns. I thought it would be easier to find patterns online but mostly I found pictures of completed potholders and did my best to recreate them.<br />
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These are the new additions to our kitchen. Watch out friends and relatives, I think I know what you are getting for Christmas!</div>
Laura ( Flours and Fibers)http://www.blogger.com/profile/17027281140267592744noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6199042869757992921.post-12671282968549130132012-08-04T23:24:00.001-05:002012-08-05T09:14:02.464-05:00Blooms, Tunes, and Brews<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Live Music + Beer + Knitting = :)</td></tr>
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On Thursday, I took the night off from<a href="http://www.knitandknotyarn.com/" target="_blank"> Knit & Knot</a> and Paul and I headed out to a <a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_486145756">c</a><a href="http://www.misseffiesflowers.com/" target="_blank">ertain flower farm</a> in Donahue, Iowa. <a href="http://misseffiesdiary.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Miss Effie</a> hosted a fabulous evening of local beer and great live music at the farm. The <a href="http://bentriverbrewing.com/" target="_blank">Bent River</a> Pale Ale went down easy (note the empty Mason jar in the photo above!), and Jenn Swift and Andrew Vickers played fantastic music. I also realized the new camping chairs we bought this summer are perfect for knitting in public. My skein fit nicely in one of the cup holders. (The Mason jar fit perfectly in the other. Coincidence? I think not.)<br />
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My friend and fellow <a href="http://floursandfibers.blogspot.com/search?updated-min=2010-01-01T00:00:00-06:00&updated-max=2011-01-01T00:00:00-06:00&max-results=5" target="_blank">convent crafter</a>, <a href="http://stitchymenagerie.blogspot.com/2012/08/fabric-friday.html" target="_blank">Susan</a>, was there with her husband, Pat. She was knitting a garter stitch scarf comprised of triangles of leftover sock yarn. Very cool! Maybe it was <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/short-row-multi-directional-scarf-69" target="_blank">this pattern</a>? I didn't get a picture of Susan and Pat (or the scarf), but I did manage to snap one of Paul.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lovin' it.</td></tr>
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Contrary to what this photo may show, I believe he had a good time...</div>
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We couldn't leave Miss Effie's empty-handed, of course. Check out the goodies we got to bring home with us :)</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful flowers from a beautiful farm!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pretty eggs from pretty chickens!</td></tr>
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<br />Laura ( Flours and Fibers)http://www.blogger.com/profile/17027281140267592744noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6199042869757992921.post-14401085492640478762012-04-13T12:16:00.004-05:002012-12-08T12:01:05.312-06:00Introducing... Lamb!!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Happy Spring! As the weather has been getting warmer, I've been inspired to start knitting smaller, quick projects. One of the first projects I completed as a part of this inspiration was <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/FloursAndFibers/lamb" target="_blank">Lamb</a>, by the great <a href="http://susanbanderson.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Susan B. Anderson</a>.<br />
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This pattern can be found in the book <a href="http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/itty-bitty-toys-susan-b-anderson/1100558746?ean=9781579653767&itm=1&" target="_blank">Itty, Bitty Knits</a> and for free(!) online on the <a href="http://www.womansday.com/home/craft-ideas/craft-project-knitted-toy-lamb-101310?click=main_sr" target="_blank">Woman's Day</a> website. The pattern is written wonderfully, but of course, there were a few things I changed, since I just can't help myself.<br />
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<li>I knit the body of the lamb in garter stitch, because the yarn I used (<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/yarns/library/dale-of-norway-dalegarn-monjita-2" target="_blank">Dale of Norway - Monjita</a>) looked more "sheep-like" in garter. </li>
<li>I cast-on 7 stitches for each leg and knit them in the round, instead of doing I-cord. The straws that you insert into each leg to make the lamb stand, didn't fit in my I-cord. The yarn I used for the face and legs was <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/yarns/library/dale-of-norway-dalegarn-heilo" target="_blank">Dale of Norway - Heilo</a>. </li>
<li>For the smaller appendages, I divided the stitches between two double-pointed needles and knit with a third. I find for small items, with few stitches, this is less tedious for me than dividing the stitches among three or four double points.</li>
<li>Just as a tip, I leave all the yarn ends un-trimmed, until I attached all of the pieces. This way you can adjust the pieces with just a stitch or two without having to attach another length of yarn. (I wish I had done that on my first toy, a <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/FloursAndFibers/tiny-elf" target="_blank">Christmas elf</a>. His legs stick out at rather unnatural, if not impossible, positions at all times!)</li>
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After attaching all of the pieces I embroidered the face and the toes with DMC cotton embroidery floss. This was a joy to make. In fact, I have plans for a couple more! You can easily knit two full-size and one half-size Lamb out of one skein of Monjita. I'll leave you with a few more pictures of the Lamb, who has been re-christened, Shipley:<br />
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<img class="photo_image" height="240" id="photo_image_22997826" src="http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7050/7036995877_1fabf2de1d_z.jpg" width="320" /><img class="photo_image" height="240" id="photo_image_22997829" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6116/6890904200_07e957858d_z.jpg" width="320" /><br />
<img class="photo_image" height="240" id="photo_image_22997845" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6055/6890903854_77d7be7660_z.jpg" width="320" /><img class="photo_image" height="240" id="photo_image_22997847" src="http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7264/6890904566_6254dfde1d_z.jpg" width="320" /><br />
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And of course... THE END!<br />
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Laura ( Flours and Fibers)http://www.blogger.com/profile/17027281140267592744noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6199042869757992921.post-64415329678625526542012-01-11T21:29:00.004-06:002016-08-04T19:04:56.597-05:00Moonlighting... at Knit & Knot!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="188" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHkoR2kvKa8IWi7LJx1UrVte_pGzWiGpSR5nY_AntNcjqZl2lttMj5aG5n2YUzHkQ4rH-CWb7IaBKALzPPtKMdKY_oiotql6qoHEWFx3ciZDaj3u7a8n43YN6o4jB6Bz-KcbMyZRDON15-/s320/logok%2526K.jpg" width="320" /></div>
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Last week, something very exciting happened. Bettendorf became home to the Quad Cities' newest yarn shop, <a href="http://www.knitandknotyarn.com/" target="_blank">Knit & Knot</a>! Meet Joy Povich, the owner of Knit & Knot:<br />
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The above picture shows her placing the very first skein of yarn on the shelves built by her husband. As you can see, they placed a lot more yarn after that! (And this isn't the half of it!)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBvw_XzZoONKRK4ECDnNwLt2q4PRxLAmJuwbLR9P7K765u-rjywfWcZuyYPjJWEXVkZ796SGgfDIfASbM1TF2CeGQSBp-yL4YyZ-2bkY4lCqKgYa1YATBVcyk6Eq5pWMoSFN1aagpSUjAm/s1600/kk1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" kba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBvw_XzZoONKRK4ECDnNwLt2q4PRxLAmJuwbLR9P7K765u-rjywfWcZuyYPjJWEXVkZ796SGgfDIfASbM1TF2CeGQSBp-yL4YyZ-2bkY4lCqKgYa1YATBVcyk6Eq5pWMoSFN1aagpSUjAm/s320/kk1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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In the three years that I've lived here, I have to say that the knitting and crocheting community seems to have grown in leaps and bounds! This newest development is very exciting to me personally, because I will be working and teaching at this shop! <br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i>Location:</i> <b>3359 Devils Glen Road, Bettendorf, IA </b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i>Hours of Operation:</i> <b>Tuesday-Friday 10am -8 pm, Saturday 10am - 5pm</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i>My Hours:</i> <b>Thursday 5pm - 8pm, every other Saturday</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">So come visit tomorrow, to check out the new shop and stay to hang out and knit with me!</span><b> </b></span>Laura ( Flours and Fibers)http://www.blogger.com/profile/17027281140267592744noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6199042869757992921.post-3457921617450910952012-01-08T17:19:00.002-06:002012-01-08T18:01:29.154-06:00New Pathways for a Non-Sock KnitterYesterday afternoon, I finished my second pair of socks ever, and the first pair that I will wear. And I will wear these often! I am a sock knitting convert!<br />
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At first, I though my aversion to sock knitting stemmed from the small gauge. But that doesn't make sense... I knit 5 pairs of fingerless mitts on size 2's with fingering weight alpaca. And I'm knitting a sweater of sock yarn on 1's. Then, awhile ago, while sorting laundry, it came to me. I only wear ankle socks or knee socks. Absolutely nothing in-between. So why did I knit the first pair to be mid-calf length? (I'd say the fact that I took a year-long break between the first and second sock might have been a hint that I wouldn't like them, but then that would mean that there are about 10 projects upstairs that I won't like once I finally finish them. And I know that's not true. It can't be.)<br />
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So on the way to Madison last week, I cast on for a pair of socks from a really neat skein of yarn I'd had in the stash for awhile. It was a skein of <a href="http://ancientthreads.blogspot.com/">Ancient Threads</a> Sock Yarn that I bought at the <a href="http://www.theelegantewe.com/">Elegant Ewe</a> in Menominee, MI. Ancient Threads Farm Yarn is naturally dyed with botanical and insect based dyes. I used the yarn on the left in the top photo. I am still thinking about a project for the other skein. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFe6IH9LdyGCrGlrU7OwXqfpGuaM5LZTWyClhiWxNWzdk0_wN5B_WlmrDHxgxgiVmSLTNu_pJM_HAToiAQb7GxBWuZ1zHLXQJ4XACKeW5UxERHlp-uYs7HCM3WSvB1gct8jBTlR3SnfC2O/s1600/ancient_threads_medium.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" rea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFe6IH9LdyGCrGlrU7OwXqfpGuaM5LZTWyClhiWxNWzdk0_wN5B_WlmrDHxgxgiVmSLTNu_pJM_HAToiAQb7GxBWuZ1zHLXQJ4XACKeW5UxERHlp-uYs7HCM3WSvB1gct8jBTlR3SnfC2O/s320/ancient_threads_medium.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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After a few false starts (including tearing out an also completed sock to about 2 inches after the cast-on, I waited until we returned home, and dug out my borrowed (thanks, Mom!) copy of "<a href="http://www.amazon.com/New-Pathways-Sock-Knitters-Book/dp/product-description/0970886969">New Pathways for Sock Knitters</a>" by <a href="http://catbordhi.com/">Cat Bordhi</a>. This book is pure genious, and allows you to knit socks custom fit for your feet. I finished both socks in about 6 days, and also worked on other projects. That busted the myth in my head that socks took a long time to knit. So I now present you with proof that I did, in fact, knit and wear a pair of socks! <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOfiXkLIySpmFQt24Wd4gsnfDAYCJNQP1p1pKFbz6xbw1MqKAgSkeGaBwZGVnj7UeZJ93_AkuM-75qZifXn6fsocV-aJ5IKTf63H5KBX7KWLlk3SIBlH7faKm1IHbaEgTVrzbuiX_tZYd6/s1600/DSCN3511.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" rea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOfiXkLIySpmFQt24Wd4gsnfDAYCJNQP1p1pKFbz6xbw1MqKAgSkeGaBwZGVnj7UeZJ93_AkuM-75qZifXn6fsocV-aJ5IKTf63H5KBX7KWLlk3SIBlH7faKm1IHbaEgTVrzbuiX_tZYd6/s320/DSCN3511.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>I knit these toe-up, starting with <a href="http://knitty.com/ISSUEspring06/FEATmagiccaston.html">Judy Becker's Magic Cast-On</a>, which my just be the most useful bit of information I gleaned from "New Pathways". That is saying something, as the book is chock-full of useful techniques and tips. I use this cast-on exclusively whenever a pattern calls for a provisional cast-on. It really is magic. I then used the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/riverbed-master-pattern">Riverbed Master Pattern</a> from the book, knit to the end of the heel, worked in the round for a few rows, throwing in a couple of short rows along the back, and topped them off with an I-Cord bind off. Check out my <a href="http://ravel.me/FloursAndFibers/rmp2">Ancient Threads Anklets</a> Ravelry project page for all the details!Laura ( Flours and Fibers)http://www.blogger.com/profile/17027281140267592744noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6199042869757992921.post-80324093513658861662012-01-03T20:41:00.000-06:002012-01-03T20:41:47.023-06:00A very lucky knitter...Man, did I luck out this Christmas. My friends and family treated me to some fantastic knitterly gifts. (And I didn't even have to forward the <a href="http://www.yarnharlot.ca/blog/archives/2011_12.html">Yarn Harlot's</a> gift ideas!) Here is the haul:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDSI32yhHVSlrS-ZxLv3RDfgMZz-6VMuRw7UJWeP20XvcmfP8OTrInvVXfdSHfRsIeBh7ZREz6z_hHB-nCMi-ToU8ZOGEpOekUlUuMrDODlISGFqASWoUq68er7ofVKANGn1NevQUcjRNL/s1600/DSCN3498.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" rea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDSI32yhHVSlrS-ZxLv3RDfgMZz-6VMuRw7UJWeP20XvcmfP8OTrInvVXfdSHfRsIeBh7ZREz6z_hHB-nCMi-ToU8ZOGEpOekUlUuMrDODlISGFqASWoUq68er7ofVKANGn1NevQUcjRNL/s640/DSCN3498.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>In case you can't read all of the titles, pictured are:<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Elizabeth-Zimmermanns-Knitters-Almanac-Commemorative/dp/0486479129/ref=sr_1_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1325643592&sr=1-2">Knitter's Almanac, The Commemorative Edition</a> by <a href="http://www.schoolhousepress.com/gen_books.htm">Elizabeth Zimmermann</a><br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Knitting-Around-Elizabeth-Zimmermann/dp/0942018036">Knitting Around</a> by Elizabeth Zimmermann<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Alden-Amos-Big-Book-Handspinning/dp/1883010888/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1325643624&sr=1-1">The Alden Amos Big Book of Handspinning</a><br />
<a href="http://vogueknitting.com/subscribe.aspx">A Vogue Knitting Subscription</a>!!!<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Little-Red-City-Ysolda-Teague/dp/0956525822/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1325643656&sr=1-1">Little Red in the City by Ysolda Teague</a><br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Knitting-Around-Elizabeth-Zimmermann-Swansen/dp/B000YFITNG/ref=sr_1_cc_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1325643695&sr=1-1-catcorr">Knitting Around DVD</a> with Elizabeth Zimmerman and Meg Swanson<br />
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I have had the Elizabeth Zimmermann and Alden Amos books on my list for a long time. I'm trying to add mostly tried and true knitting titles to my library. I really like reference style books to help me in my knitting, while still giving me the freedom to change things as I please. I just cannot follow a pattern to the letter, and EZ's creativity and writing style inspire me! I spend a lot of time at the <a href="http://www.schoolhousepress.com/">Schoolhouse Press</a> website. I can't get enough of their yarns and patterns!<br />
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That being said, sometimes the new intrigues me as well, and I have looked up <a href="http://ysolda.com/wordpress/">Ysolda Teague</a>'s new book several times. It was a wonderful surprise!<br />
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I got another sweet surprise in the mail a few weeks before Christmas:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfBVIXqVANVkUbjyMybIN3kGv1TI3JqHFJy8nQ-F3IWIcwnmTS2KrfxaWV4SDLdr0hFCaoI9vT5DNLvfwXJr2Nwo3W-AtvkHGQkFjUE9PPP_GbocPY548Z-C9y7zfo9girS8k5jxXUSnbl/s1600/DSCN3501.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" rea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfBVIXqVANVkUbjyMybIN3kGv1TI3JqHFJy8nQ-F3IWIcwnmTS2KrfxaWV4SDLdr0hFCaoI9vT5DNLvfwXJr2Nwo3W-AtvkHGQkFjUE9PPP_GbocPY548Z-C9y7zfo9girS8k5jxXUSnbl/s320/DSCN3501.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>My Aunt Sue send me this adorable ornament. It is handmade and the yarn is handspun. It was a perfect addition to our first Christmas tree.<br />
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So thank you Mom, <a href="http://materialknits.blogspot.com/">Colleen</a>, Abby and Aunt Sue. Your gifts will be treasured!Laura ( Flours and Fibers)http://www.blogger.com/profile/17027281140267592744noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6199042869757992921.post-9006388120914177182011-08-13T22:12:00.004-05:002011-08-13T22:29:25.044-05:00Rebuttal<em>Where Laura proves that knitted food-stuffs are actually adorable and irresistable.</em><br />
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</em>First, let me just say that I do agree with Emily that baked goods made to look like knitting are totally awesome and impressive. Other than that though, I have to say, as a knitter, I was a bit put off by the rest of the post. Just kidding, but seriously, knitted food is way cute.<br />
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Exibits A- D: <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8TPtZ18bEoXSW4HePBYr45NCSYRhjZlXsF3pL2WjQlKVwTeoI9hSg1qXUXUKwukA8du3nwIOSu45xgavP7jC9jAzMDDwsliXEPpIhgvERdE6O8ArrcM3n0Br9i-PKsCiAnjd0W8X_gGDr/s1600/veggies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="214" naa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8TPtZ18bEoXSW4HePBYr45NCSYRhjZlXsF3pL2WjQlKVwTeoI9hSg1qXUXUKwukA8du3nwIOSu45xgavP7jC9jAzMDDwsliXEPpIhgvERdE6O8ArrcM3n0Br9i-PKsCiAnjd0W8X_gGDr/s320/veggies.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(C) Budaknit<br />
Knitted Food Pattern 4. by Lissa Napora<br />
<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/knitted-food-pattern-4---pita-sandwich">Ravelry Pattern Link</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table> <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLLqdztV6Q6cXZm15CdPVRpmkf4RemK7pejzBjLPg9djkIN9ovc9QcgrFKBQQUDZayUrkOTkrJyjXxF97LVzn_RPFvdBN80_TV4nWUtfQAKN6ylmcPuozFx5e_ivhX-XqapIN4FXRoET0M/s1600/more+veggies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" naa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLLqdztV6Q6cXZm15CdPVRpmkf4RemK7pejzBjLPg9djkIN9ovc9QcgrFKBQQUDZayUrkOTkrJyjXxF97LVzn_RPFvdBN80_TV4nWUtfQAKN6ylmcPuozFx5e_ivhX-XqapIN4FXRoET0M/s320/more+veggies.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(C) Amanda Berry<br />
Fruit and Vegetables by Amanda Berry<br />
<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/fruit--vegetables">Ravelry Pattern Link</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhWjvEgaozQK4xUP4J1aMbgztGE9EhS8Nt0OvoOpYMpb17y7rc0D_YkntNW1dFF_BKclU4fP9Qho6nc5kYD-m6dQefgZoIMfItqtx9HxHZPeLd04hUcXc0AV5K827gsFoR2j9LsKgB-C-_/s1600/strawberries.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" naa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhWjvEgaozQK4xUP4J1aMbgztGE9EhS8Nt0OvoOpYMpb17y7rc0D_YkntNW1dFF_BKclU4fP9Qho6nc5kYD-m6dQefgZoIMfItqtx9HxHZPeLd04hUcXc0AV5K827gsFoR2j9LsKgB-C-_/s320/strawberries.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(C) Pezdiva<br />
Knit Strawberries by Pez Diva<br />
<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/knit-strawberries">Ravelry Pattern Link</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb-bzPruymalSULHZDVnavru3s6NfYktD57wonQ4MduWKak2ngNsh4T2F0LTFX9X1_NZUInQdgFP49-ywgPZWI61XJaimCbJM2iU_zN1xP1KXUg9abpUNMe0R8-KbCLSwfiong3Xp_3Bbp/s1600/sushi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" naa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb-bzPruymalSULHZDVnavru3s6NfYktD57wonQ4MduWKak2ngNsh4T2F0LTFX9X1_NZUInQdgFP49-ywgPZWI61XJaimCbJM2iU_zN1xP1KXUg9abpUNMe0R8-KbCLSwfiong3Xp_3Bbp/s320/sushi.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(C) NeedleNoodles <br />
Knit Sushi Pattern by Needle Noodles<br />
<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/knit-sushi-pattern-pdf">Ravelry Pattern Link</a><br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Case closed.<br />
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P.S. Emily, does your aversion to wool extend to alpaca? If so, I want the sweater I knit you for your birthday back!!Laura ( Flours and Fibers)http://www.blogger.com/profile/17027281140267592744noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6199042869757992921.post-25829394365239419432011-08-12T21:23:00.001-05:002011-08-12T21:26:26.841-05:00When Flours and Fibers Meet<i>A sensory adventure in which Emily discovers that food made to look like it has been knitted is adorable and knitted things made to look like food are horrifying.</i><br />
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So the subtitle of this blog describes us as "a blog about baking and knitting...only occasionally simultaneously." Yet, to date we haven't actually broached the "simultaneous" subject. You may be surprised to find out that there are quite a few instances in which the line between flour and fiber is blurred. Cookies that look like knitting patterns, yarn-based hamburgers, etc. And, *nerd alert,* I love doing research. So I did the dirty work for you and compiled a collection of links related to the subject.<br />
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First up, the cupcakes that inspired this post. I stumbled upon them over a year ago and fell in love. Apparently I'm not the only one; <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ESJ5QXNcd0c&feature=player_embedded">Martha Stewart also thinks they're a good thing</a>. The cupcakes feature marzipan yarn balls, sweaters, scarves and more. So cute! Check out the post from <a href="http://veganyumyum.com/">VeganYumYum's</a> blog <a href="http://veganyumyum.com/2007/06/knit-night-cupcakes/">here</a>.<br />
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In keeping with the cupcake theme, we'll move on to knit cupcakes. These are basically their own genre within knitting, nestled somewhere between hats and sweaters. There are way too many examples to link to every one, but I think <a href="http://kimberlychapman.com/crafts/knit-patterns-fancycupcake.html">this one</a> is incredible. It's made to look like it has dripping frosting and sprinkles! <a href="http://mydeco.com/people/Cleberry/blog/2009/jan/02/knit-your-home/">This post</a> from <a href="http://mydeco.com/">mydeco</a> also features some beautiful knitted cupcakes. You have to scroll all the way to the bottom of the post, but that's ok, because there are pictures of lots of other knit things to keep you occupied on the way down.<br />
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I have to admit, cupcakes are pretty much where my enjoyment of knit food ends. The rest I find pretty gross. I've always been pretty sensory defensive, and I still can't stand the feel of wool (no one tell Laura!). For some reason the cupcakes don't bother me, but any other type of foodstuff rendered in yarn just makes me imagine a mouthful of itchy yarn-ness. And when it comes to food, I'm definitely a texture person. Now, I don't want to offend you, hypothetical food knitter, by being mildly repulsed at the sight of your handiwork. I think what you're doing is cool, in a somewhat repugnant sort of way. Just not my thing. If knit food <i>is</i> your bag of wool, you might want to check out <a href="http://pic-tures.blogspot.com/2011/05/amazing-knitted-food-creations.html">these pictures</a> or maybe these books:<br />
<iframe align="left" frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=flouampfibe-20&o=1&p=8&l=bpl&asins=1844485382&fc1=000000&IS2=1&lt1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="align: left; height: 245px; padding-right: 10px; padding-top: 5px; width: 131px;"></iframe><iframe align="left" frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=flouampfibe-20&o=1&p=8&l=bpl&asins=B004A6HXRI&fc1=000000&IS2=1&lt1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="align: left; height: 245px; padding-right: 10px; padding-top: 5px; width: 131px;"></iframe><iframe align="left" frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=flouampfibe-20&o=1&p=8&l=bpl&asins=1844485390&fc1=000000&IS2=1&lt1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="align: left; height: 245px; padding-right: 10px; padding-top: 5px; width: 131px;"></iframe><iframe align="left" frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=flouampfibe-20&o=1&p=8&l=bpl&asins=1844485404&fc1=000000&IS2=1&lt1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="align: left; height: 245px; padding-right: 10px; padding-top: 5px; width: 131px;"></iframe><br />
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To end the post on a happy note, here's a cool tutorial about <a href="http://katieyoon.blogspot.com/2010/10/how-to-decorate-sweater-with-royal.html">how to create the knitted pattern with icing </a>and a picture of some <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/sweetsugarbelle/5150515890/in/photostream">tiny knitting-themed cut-out cookies</a>. Hopefully I'll get to try some of these ideas out soon! <br />
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Stay tuned for a post about Laura's wedding shower, which was last weekend. I'd hoped to write about it sooner, but...<i>ahem</i>...a certain co-contributor to this blog hasn't gotten the pictures to me yet. Everybody send her an angry email!Emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12976650930829848961noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6199042869757992921.post-13654132918021882882011-07-27T23:56:00.002-05:002011-08-01T15:15:38.397-05:00Sunday in the GardenAs I've mentioned in a couple earlier posts, last summer I had the opportunity to intern at <a href="http://www.misseffiesflowers.com/">Miss Effie's Country Flowers and Garden Stuff</a> in Donahue, Iowa. Almost exactly one year ago, I was frenziedly baking, weeding, and otherwise preparing for Miss Eff's Second Annual Ice Cream Social. Carrot cake, sour cream chocolate cake, German chocolate cake, chocolate chip cookies, lemon shortbread, lemon poppyseed Bundt cake, yellow cupcakes with fudge frosting, French vanilla ice cream, chocolate silk ice cream, a few batches of last-minute jam...I was in <i>heaven, </i>people! Read about last year's preparations <a href="http://misseffiesdiary.blogspot.com/2010/07/i-think-we-are-ready.html">here</a>. And check out a picture of the fruits of my labor:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg15VLIPzopu-XKxWsvKxWQrtyUGNK3Kd1nG9Ci280evt-GDTH4VUx0D55xl51ijR995H3rbx4mOCxHO0qQNpUVPWXRHE_ONEPHGxKAs44xZsmg66-sCl0kTvqBugbSnbU3DKqHho1NjE6n/s1600/38545_1316545965923_1598940010_687167_7778721_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg15VLIPzopu-XKxWsvKxWQrtyUGNK3Kd1nG9Ci280evt-GDTH4VUx0D55xl51ijR995H3rbx4mOCxHO0qQNpUVPWXRHE_ONEPHGxKAs44xZsmg66-sCl0kTvqBugbSnbU3DKqHho1NjE6n/s320/38545_1316545965923_1598940010_687167_7778721_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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The ice cream social holds a very special place in my heart. The <a href="http://misseffiesdiary.blogspot.com/2009/07/how-do-i-say-thank-you.html">first one was in 2009</a>, and it was the first time I ever went to Miss Eff's. I was seriously in a daze. At the risk of sounding saccharine, I'm going to say that the farm felt like home. And I don't mean like my childhood home, I mean like the abstract, can't-put-your-finger-on-exactly-why-it's-so-perfect "home." You can scroll down past the recipes on <a href="http://floursandfibers.blogspot.com/2009/07/lazy-sunday.html">this post</a> if you want to read about my maiden voyage to Miss Effie's. It was the start of a beautiful friendship! <br />
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As has also been mentioned a couple times, Laura's getting <i>married</i> in October! My mom and I had planned a trip to Iowa to help her get the invitations ready, and it just so happens that that trip coincided with Miss Eff's <a href="http://misseffiesdiary.blogspot.com/2011/07/quickie.html">Third Annual Ice Cream Social</a>! It was amazing to be back on the farm, but also kind of bittersweet. So much has changed! Take Miss Eff's retail shop, the Summer Kitchen, for instance:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixRYwAbURRdgeEROzENNRoN1c3pWD6lZzBpWEQ24Q3m6REQ7gzEKaezsXNYQkruWfttzPt4tb8Quk616-cu5h1fastoWZ3pRh_t1vwS5fo1pz06AdS-9lebngcCJbTPmiDMXqVwXEfXQid/s1600/summer+kitchen+in+progress.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixRYwAbURRdgeEROzENNRoN1c3pWD6lZzBpWEQ24Q3m6REQ7gzEKaezsXNYQkruWfttzPt4tb8Quk616-cu5h1fastoWZ3pRh_t1vwS5fo1pz06AdS-9lebngcCJbTPmiDMXqVwXEfXQid/s320/summer+kitchen+in+progress.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What the Summer Kitchen looked like when I left...photo credit Cathy Lafrenz</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu-wqBgROWXxpvaUiw2Erhy0nTwzEj3Z7Nhl9swO-1uDRKjzjfzE2RycwK4NsLXYhS3y9ZetPcewNjJ45o8C-o9cNSK8lYfB1WTXLiihKOL6ks9Zb36KFnujBWR4kvsdVio1WWzP08mlra/s1600/DSCN3143.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu-wqBgROWXxpvaUiw2Erhy0nTwzEj3Z7Nhl9swO-1uDRKjzjfzE2RycwK4NsLXYhS3y9ZetPcewNjJ45o8C-o9cNSK8lYfB1WTXLiihKOL6ks9Zb36KFnujBWR4kvsdVio1WWzP08mlra/s400/DSCN3143.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What an amazing sign!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq7_wanCXauCVmlVTf-3yF4qI-cALOMYEU9pIGmZa5d2QYIwpuNmRFAQm_cVyz-LH8PZmDcCcTqIllIGp2dCP48haOJDyEVTF4y76wwvHFBHuCeNRNKUHzniwyB3sEplfHjzDfDJ3ogvHE/s1600/DSCN3138.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq7_wanCXauCVmlVTf-3yF4qI-cALOMYEU9pIGmZa5d2QYIwpuNmRFAQm_cVyz-LH8PZmDcCcTqIllIGp2dCP48haOJDyEVTF4y76wwvHFBHuCeNRNKUHzniwyB3sEplfHjzDfDJ3ogvHE/s400/DSCN3138.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Summer Kitchen today</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
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It was great to see how far the farm has come, and visiting with Cathy and Cliff is always a treat. They raised over $500 for their local food pantry at this event! But for Laura, nothing topped the goats from <a href="http://www.zengoaties.com/">Zen Goaties</a>:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKRZ40RSv9w55r6vDXTRytraWhigMuhMM9Snek3p6rFwz84tiHAsZrmzj4qQm4YDy_vWwnx5dmQDIO_cZZUQH4Fjz3LpRkf3rbNNyRSIX0siKYO29fHqZ-QbITuAGkZby3otQ30olvaGYk/s1600/DSCN3144.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKRZ40RSv9w55r6vDXTRytraWhigMuhMM9Snek3p6rFwz84tiHAsZrmzj4qQm4YDy_vWwnx5dmQDIO_cZZUQH4Fjz3LpRkf3rbNNyRSIX0siKYO29fHqZ-QbITuAGkZby3otQ30olvaGYk/s320/DSCN3144.JPG" width="240" /> </a></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgagn80yklW7mkEKjCVoa-VbP26iOPS-fzg2YjO8Yl2sCTXfIjfpYhdWgJVkZ9h64TISij4WII0ogbLTPmudwKVJoiquDZwyRLGMdjQuMcgvs_mXnipJdzQzkOHIWLwdp9ucF8y6dQ-l_2B/s1600/DSCN3148.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgagn80yklW7mkEKjCVoa-VbP26iOPS-fzg2YjO8Yl2sCTXfIjfpYhdWgJVkZ9h64TISij4WII0ogbLTPmudwKVJoiquDZwyRLGMdjQuMcgvs_mXnipJdzQzkOHIWLwdp9ucF8y6dQ-l_2B/s320/DSCN3148.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Laura getting in touch with her motherly side...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>If you'd like to read some other points of view about the day, check out these blogs:<br />
<ul><li> <a href="http://mcsmithley.blogspot.com/2011/07/ice-cream-social.html">McSmithleyville</a></li>
<li><a href="http://fullfreezer.blogspot.com/2011/07/field-trip.html">My Freezer is Full</a></li>
<li><a href="http://jvanoort.blogspot.com/2011/07/miss-effies-annual-ice-cream-social.html">Notes from the Heartland</a></li>
</ul>That's all for today, folks! I'll leave you with my favorite picture of Miss Eff's. I took it last summer after a long day of weeding. Now before you go thinking I'm a photography genius, the whole hazy thing was an accident. I actually thought I broke my camera, because all the pictures were turning out like that. Turns out I had left my camera sitting in the grass and the lens got all dewy, resulting in that dreamlike look. Gotta love happy accidents!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4GR-XAz1epskm8ES9Xyz92DaLg6cCJThG75JHqbdxYYWgqkSU653SD8B0pih0bV3EwLL2-heFOkHQFdDTNiyz83kS0GNot_rGWm70UsbULxvNn9flkx5fHGuqSYmE4LqsMJbEdrrVmWy-/s1600/33529_1325515310151_1598940010_707802_3102580_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4GR-XAz1epskm8ES9Xyz92DaLg6cCJThG75JHqbdxYYWgqkSU653SD8B0pih0bV3EwLL2-heFOkHQFdDTNiyz83kS0GNot_rGWm70UsbULxvNn9flkx5fHGuqSYmE4LqsMJbEdrrVmWy-/s320/33529_1325515310151_1598940010_707802_3102580_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<ul></ul>Emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12976650930829848961noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6199042869757992921.post-32236332542465307422011-07-23T00:23:00.001-05:002011-07-23T00:30:04.248-05:00A Recipe to Make You Appreciate Mom's Tuna CasseroleEver look through your cookbooks and come across a recipe that makes you wonder what the author was thinking? I have <strike>too many</strike> a lot of cookbooks, ranging from turn-of-the-century textbook-style references for homemakers to brand new tomes heralding the merits of tofu. Naturally, while perusing these cookbooks, I occasionally come across what I call a WTF recipe. This was exactly the case tonight as I leafed through my 1917 edition of <i>The New Household Discoveries: an Encyclopedia of Recipes and Processes</i>, edited by Sidney Morse. The book is 842 pages long (including the index) and offers sections like The Art of Correct Table Service, Economical Use of Meat in the Home, Candies and Candy-Making, and Prevention of Communicable Disease. If you need to know which fork goes where or how to counter hookworm disease, this is the reference for you. The recipe section comes complete with such appetizing headings as "Meat with Macaroni and Other Starchy Materials" (highlight recipes: Meat Cakes, Mock Wild Duck, Meat Salad). <br />
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In terms of WTF recipes, this book is rife with them. One in particular, however, caught my eye. Ladies and gents, allow me to introduce you to Chicken-and-Ham Mold. I hope I'm not violating any copyright laws by posting this, but honestly I can't imagine anyone wanting to actually take responsibility for this recipe. <br />
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Chicken-and-Ham Mold<br />
From <i>The New Household Discoveries </i>with <span style="font-size: x-small;">editor's comments</span> (okay, they're my comments, but I imagine any self-respecting editor would respond in a similar fashion)<br />
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2 cupfuls cold chopped chicken<span style="font-size: x-small;"> (not off to a great start)</span><br />
1 cupful chopped ham<br />
1 cupful cold boiled macaroni <span style="font-size: x-small;">(WHAT?!)</span><br />
2 eggs<br />
1 tablespoonful butter<br />
1 cupful gravy<span style="font-size: x-small;"> (oh <i>hell</i> no)</span><br />
pepper and salt<span style="font-size: x-small;"> (you sound like a fool. It's salt and pepper.)</span><br />
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Mix the chicken, ham, and macaroni <span style="font-size: x-small;">(not happening)</span>, moisten<span style="font-size: x-small;"> (dirty, disgusting word that should never be used and especially not when referring to food)</span> with the eggs, melted butter, and gravy, season highly<span style="font-size: x-small;"> (unless you're seasoning with Mrs. Dash magic de-disgustifying blend, don't bother).</span> Butter a mold, pour the mixture in<span style="font-size: x-small;"> (ew ew ew ew)</span>, put on cover tightly<span style="font-size: x-small;"> (and don't EVER take it off)</span>, and boil two hours. Dip the mold into cold water for a minute and turn out on a hot dish <span style="font-size: x-small;">(yes, because you don't want to ruin as gourmet a dish as this with a cold plate)</span>. Serve with tomato sauce<span style="font-size: x-small;"> (to someone you don't care for much at all)</span>.<br />
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So now you know what to make next time your in-laws visit. You're welcome!<br />
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What are some WTF recipes you've come across?Emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12976650930829848961noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6199042869757992921.post-68729506736511556672011-07-18T20:17:00.003-05:002011-07-18T20:19:54.700-05:00IMBYI've never been good at seeking out the positives. Born a pessimist, some of my earliest memories involve my mom asking why I always had to be so contrary. And so when it comes to my hometown, I all too often focus on what's wrong. <br />
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My whole life, I've been surrounded with murmurs of "There's nothing to do here," and "this town is so boring!" More than a few of those murmurs were uttered by me. <br />
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My mom always used to say, "Boredom is a choice." It was <i>unbelievably</i> annoying. Of course, she was right. Any place is boring if you don't look into what that place has to offer. And I probably wouldn't change how things happened, but it's almost embarrassing that <a href="http://misseffiesdiary.blogspot.com/2010/06/rainy-days.html">I found my dream in Iowa</a>, only to come home and discover a similar version of that dream right in my backyard. Funny how life works!<br />
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So what is this hometown dream? <a href="http://petermanbrookherbfarm.com/default.aspx">Peterman Brook Herb Farm</a> in Porterfield. For those of you who don't know, Porterfield is in Northeastern Wisconsin...about 15 minutes from my house! I happened to find out about this farm just days before their annual <a href="http://petermanbrookherbfarm.com/FaerieFestival.aspx">Faerie Festival</a>, an event that reminded me a lot of<a href="http://misseffiesdiary.blogspot.com/2010/07/thank-you-my-dear-dear-friends.html"> Miss Effie's market party</a>, with numerous vendors and proceeds going to charitable organizations (none of Miss Eff's famous French silk ice cream, though!). Of course, I'll always be partial to <a href="http://www.misseffiesflowers.com/">Miss Eff's</a>--it's impossible not to be after having spent so much time there weeding in triple-digit-with-the-heat-index temps. Er, I mean...after <a href="http://misseffiesdiary.blogspot.com/2009/07/how-do-i-say-thank-you.html">having found a second mother</a>* in Cathy . My first time at Peterman Brook was not quite the same as <a href="http://misseffiesdiary.blogspot.com/2010/07/thank-you-my-dear-dear-friends.html">my first time at the aforementioned flower farm</a>, but it <i>was</i> very nostalgic to be back at a place so similarly aligned to Miss Effie's philosophy. And I'm always happy to go somewhere that allows me to unleash my inner ethnobotanist!<br />
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Though I'm no photographer, I did manage to snap a few pics of the grounds:<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmbfvTs_hvYdItXYyQffD_ac-qkeQI3RKmK8q3M8NxOMHFfSZl-m59EvHuSdmiWn5qVvAhAF3hj565a57Y1aXMsSKXBE29567IP8Iec4m7cr_kASAq2QUMTPlMxzT4Ojj_fAOK6Fx4iU_l/s1600/DSCN0395.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmbfvTs_hvYdItXYyQffD_ac-qkeQI3RKmK8q3M8NxOMHFfSZl-m59EvHuSdmiWn5qVvAhAF3hj565a57Y1aXMsSKXBE29567IP8Iec4m7cr_kASAq2QUMTPlMxzT4Ojj_fAOK6Fx4iU_l/s400/DSCN0395.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vendor stalls flanking the soap shop</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPgx0Op_c5iSllnvLcM5gevjX14paj0u1uCvEevDPHW0vS-hRXVlSRMr9NdxUz1ri9oP2PdteGkaAE7g2FUNTOF1Hmq9S8wxueRIu7TzxWPtssbNODIsJ-TJgY4vYPj-hSLjIjPQwCUD0m/s1600/DSCN0399.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPgx0Op_c5iSllnvLcM5gevjX14paj0u1uCvEevDPHW0vS-hRXVlSRMr9NdxUz1ri9oP2PdteGkaAE7g2FUNTOF1Hmq9S8wxueRIu7TzxWPtssbNODIsJ-TJgY4vYPj-hSLjIjPQwCUD0m/s400/DSCN0399.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Coming up the drive. One of the most amazing porches I've seen...and how about that barn? SWOON.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFPyiA5tgIaMVm219cJq888QZfLh_RSGKsR9QcI4zUlTWj7FKwL8468fk2Jfw5ZaN5J5S4wagQghIN4i5yzU7QlpdahbVNUAK0Sxrb1pK481tjP7V5HbcFrG-gcmZqza_tgU4Um3sf7gT-/s1600/DSCN0398.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFPyiA5tgIaMVm219cJq888QZfLh_RSGKsR9QcI4zUlTWj7FKwL8468fk2Jfw5ZaN5J5S4wagQghIN4i5yzU7QlpdahbVNUAK0Sxrb1pK481tjP7V5HbcFrG-gcmZqza_tgU4Um3sf7gT-/s400/DSCN0398.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Side view of the soap shop plus some herb gardens</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Of course, we couldn't leave without picking up a couple souvenirs:<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBrvUP2EUYb5b039LCP3AxghmR2rXjpSHjpy9GbaudupiD6swMVUF9HYJsBfEU43zvKF84ByIcKzeXrs3EKwN5ebOYxyEw_yIryVhHzAIKbQnIafeCAEHMQCjeXzho9R3HGDdl7mZQTGq5/s1600/DSCN0401.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBrvUP2EUYb5b039LCP3AxghmR2rXjpSHjpy9GbaudupiD6swMVUF9HYJsBfEU43zvKF84ByIcKzeXrs3EKwN5ebOYxyEw_yIryVhHzAIKbQnIafeCAEHMQCjeXzho9R3HGDdl7mZQTGq5/s400/DSCN0401.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of Peterman Brook's soaps...you can buy them <a href="http://petermanbrookherbfarm.com/handmadeherbalsoap.aspx">here</a>!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdKtcRFCwRxxiELdLPtKZyEPR9NSAht1np2y9Me0-0jHxAA3rsG-k-F7acZe0CvKsYoHE1gxb5oP-YwZZSIqz4xGqd9JsRmD1CLo2x6WzjhJadHwwn_a4SVLyFYBphDtGOhPCZCXxMXnEa/s1600/DSCN0402.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdKtcRFCwRxxiELdLPtKZyEPR9NSAht1np2y9Me0-0jHxAA3rsG-k-F7acZe0CvKsYoHE1gxb5oP-YwZZSIqz4xGqd9JsRmD1CLo2x6WzjhJadHwwn_a4SVLyFYBphDtGOhPCZCXxMXnEa/s400/DSCN0402.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Laura's having a fall wedding...pending her approval, these may just end up in the centerpieces.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</tbody></table>In addition to soap and mini pumpkins, you can find bath salts, essential oils, candles, and more. <a href="http://www.facebook.com/PetermanBrookHerbFarm">Like Peterman Brook on Facebook </a>to stay up to date with their latest goings-on. And if you're looking for an excuse to break out the tutu and ferry wings that have been gathering dust in your attic since Halloween of [insert year you turned ten and begged mom for them and she said no but you cried at the store so she relented and then you ended up being a cheerleader anyway], mark your calendars for next year's Faerie Festival. <br />
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*My sister and I are those adopted daughters! Just a note, we have an amazing biological mom. But she lives in Wisconsin and at the time Laura and I both lived in Iowa. We needed a local motherly influence! Plus, Cath never enforced curfew.Emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12976650930829848961noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6199042869757992921.post-13486539854180510492011-07-16T11:18:00.003-05:002011-07-16T22:16:38.174-05:00Sorry If You Thought I Was DeadHowdy folks! It has been an embarrassingly long time since I've contributed to this little blog of ours. Truth be told, I haven't been doing much foodie-wise except drooling over other blog posts I've found via <a href="http://www.stumbleupon.com/">StumbleUpon</a> (you think Facebook is a time-suck? HA. I scoff at your Facebook.).<br />
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The good news about my long hiatus is that I have lots of ideas for future posts, and lots to share with you, dear readers! Highlights may include (but are not limited to) my first trip to Europe, graduating from college(!), my first real job (pending actually getting a real job), grad school (pending a decision to go/where to go and selection of a course of study), Laura's wedding/shower, the opening of my new bakery (pending funding, a business plan, and growth of "a pair" large enough to actually do it), and, of course, my future exploits in the kitchen. <br />
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But today I will leave you with a link to a blog related to my most recent obsession--though it is, for now, only an obsession played out through the internet. Can you guess what it is? No, not <i>that</i>. It's decorated cookies! And I have seen few bloggers with as wide an array and as well-done an arsenal of decorated cookies as Callye of <a href="http://sweetsugarbelle.com/">The Sweet Adventures of Sugarbelle</a>. After discovering her site on--where else?--StumbleUpon, I spent several hours <i>devouring</i> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/sweetsugarbelle/">all 51 pages of her Flickr photostream</a>. I could never actually pick a favorite, but <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/sweetsugarbelle/3752056527/in/photostream">these</a>* are near the top of the list. If you'd like to try your hand at decorating, the blog has tutorials, recipes, and lots of drool-worthy pictures. You can also follow <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/SugarBelles/124136444301279">Sugarbelle's on Facebook</a> and/or <a href="http://twitter.com/#%21/SweetSugarBelle">Twitter</a> (while you're at it, follow <a href="http://twitter.com/#%21/emmermae">me</a>!). However you decide to check out this Texas-based baker, be prepared to spiral into a tailspin of despair as you realize you will never EVER be as good as she is. (That may have been a singular reaction on my part. You may be a better decorator/more confident person than me.) <br />
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*Little-known fact: I am OBSESSED with anything nautical. I have maritime-themed shoes, jewelry, undies, sweatshirts, sweaters**, t-shirts, socks, you get the idea. But, alas, I fear I am a poseur because I have never once been sailing. Although I did spend a lot of time on ferries between Greece and Italy during my three-week sojourn in Europe this May-June. More on that later, I promise!<br />
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**Does it piss anyone else off when people call sweatshirts sweaters and vice versa? They're not synonyms, people! They are two distinct entities with clear differences. Confession/irrelevant rant (leave now if you don't want to read an account of how my Catholic education resulted in legitimate <strike>elitism</strike> craziness): one of my many faults is that I'm somewhat of a vocabulary/grammar/language snob. That's not to say I'm a perfect writer, but I do spend a lot of time trying to make my compositions technically correct and fun to read (anyone else use a thesaurus when writing posts?). I just don't think it's that hard to proofread your stuff or have someone who knows <i>their</i> stuff proofread your stuff. Blame it on the "Grammar Nazi," aka my fifth- through eighth-grade English teacher who had us diagramming sentences 50 minutes a day. And now, almost a decade later, I still know what a predicate adjective is, so I guess my Catholic-school education was worth the tuition after all (just don't tell God I haven't been to church in about five years). By the way, sorry for the footnote within a footnote...that's probably not proper English. Sometimes it's okay to forgo convention for the sake of style, right? It's all about balance. Just don't confuse sweater/sweatshirt, there/they're/their, your/you're, or its/it's. ;)Emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12976650930829848961noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6199042869757992921.post-34367871356779431102011-06-15T23:07:00.001-05:002011-06-15T23:10:57.549-05:00I'm a knitting instructor!Hi Knitters! <br />
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</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Today was an important day in my knitting life. I taught my first class, and it was even better than I hoped it would be. I took a couple of hours off of work today, so I could be completely prepared for class. I had high hopes of presenting the class with a great tutorial to go along with Allison LoCicero's awesome <em><a href="http://frecklesandpurls.com/">Entrelac Scarf</a></em> pattern. They got the pattern alright, but after two hours of hard work, I was only able to produce one tutorial. I won't get into the whole story but it involves two printers, two laptops, one outdated operating system, one jump drive, and the blue screen of death. It's a miracle that I got one printed. The entire class will be getting the tutorial by email later tonight.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div>The class was held at the 365 Days on a Farm Yarn Shoppe in Eldridge and the topic of the day was the technique of "Entrelac". I had been intrigued by it since I saw <a href="http://misseffiesdiary.blogspot.com/">Miss Effie's</a> beautiful scarf when we were at the <a href="http://floursandfibers.blogspot.com/2011/02/knitting-in-qca.html">Crafting at the Convent Retreat</a>. I started out with <a href="http://floursandfibers.blogspot.com/2011/02/eldridge-knitting-nook-and-dorrie.html">Dorrie's Cowl</a>.<br />
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</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Then I made my <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/FloursAndFibers/summer-cowl">Summer Cowl</a>, with <a href="http://www.stonehedgefibermill.com/yarn.html">Stonehedge Millends</a> from a mill in Michigan. (I bought this skein at <a href="http://serendipityyarnshoppe.com/">Serendipity Yarn Shoppe</a>.)</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
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</div>Then Tami of the <a href="http://365daysonafarm.blogspot.com/">365 Days on a Farm Yarn Shop</a> talked to me about teaching a class, and I went crazy knitting samples.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIYlcwl9SMRwHwxGDts-El_BqlSEAdMwQGXYbo8gL-rIQmZi0gVRFP47pZbPXoV4bWDtymQY9UPSp8Z-fa-GDFE_XDVJz8Vz25n_tvGR_g5pSzebdVBFioGRv1Q-9qEnBa5VeknzCaObPB/s1600/entrelac+samples.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIYlcwl9SMRwHwxGDts-El_BqlSEAdMwQGXYbo8gL-rIQmZi0gVRFP47pZbPXoV4bWDtymQY9UPSp8Z-fa-GDFE_XDVJz8Vz25n_tvGR_g5pSzebdVBFioGRv1Q-9qEnBa5VeknzCaObPB/s320/entrelac+samples.jpg" t8="true" width="314" /></a></div><br />
So today, I breathlessly arrived at the shop a few minutes late, hoping that myearlier technical difficulties were not indicative of the rest of the evening. I was pleasantly surprised to see nine (!) women there eager to learn the technique of entrelac. The technique is not easy, and at first, it's definitely confusing. I was really proud of all of my students. Some of their work is below!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH1MeaaoXDXBuWx7nhWiaQ5T8NJ8jdVZrug3JOUz7YlJ__KotPuTu1YMaAR9jOLLNdMS1MKbr5vuQWfa-KgMUqbrT7g_9Citde0OGEEF-wTPahjg5mH48gvtcIwwsgVHnlI4nUWy1pzKsS/s1600/class.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="396" i$="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH1MeaaoXDXBuWx7nhWiaQ5T8NJ8jdVZrug3JOUz7YlJ__KotPuTu1YMaAR9jOLLNdMS1MKbr5vuQWfa-KgMUqbrT7g_9Citde0OGEEF-wTPahjg5mH48gvtcIwwsgVHnlI4nUWy1pzKsS/s640/class.png" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>I really enjoyed this class and all of the women who participated. I love sharing my passion for this craft, and one of my favorite things is the fellowship that comes along with spending time with other knitters. So thank you, Sue, Brenda, Heather, Sue, Shelley, Ann Marie, Maggie, Pam, and Janalee.<br />
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As you can see, a couple of hours is not enough time to finish a project like this. So I'll be back at the shop on Thursday, June 23, at 5 pm for additional help. All are welcome to stop by and join in the fun!<br />
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Laura ( Flours and Fibers)http://www.blogger.com/profile/17027281140267592744noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6199042869757992921.post-56625870755494001722011-06-14T20:10:00.003-05:002011-06-14T23:18:25.853-05:00The Yarn Garden<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></div><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Last week, I traveled to Annapolis, MD to attend a wetlands class for work. It was a great week, filled with field trips, dinners with friends, and on my last day, a few hours at the Local Yarn Shop. After asking around and doing some internet research, I quickly learned that "<a href="http://www.yarngarden.com/">The Yarn Garden</a>" was the place to be.</div><br />
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Nestled on the second floor of a fairly large shopping complex, it took me a few times around the parking lot to notice the unassuming sign. But once inside, I was in for a treat!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBqfi4e3CG0s-vIfpg_rzlq0lJq1BAfZi3B33clsvn6NetVFX1blJEZHmWTiGWbfOx3IfvhDvowJIy2i6rWrHjkXUP4-jVQn2mXl3LLHPhaxxPwLo8FGd5SP18xzTczMryLxkG74NE0bvq/s1600/DSCN3085.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBqfi4e3CG0s-vIfpg_rzlq0lJq1BAfZi3B33clsvn6NetVFX1blJEZHmWTiGWbfOx3IfvhDvowJIy2i6rWrHjkXUP4-jVQn2mXl3LLHPhaxxPwLo8FGd5SP18xzTczMryLxkG74NE0bvq/s200/DSCN3085.JPG" t8="true" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl9gzI4FTM7CQx5QZENvapMjcTOHwdAoOxkEKzDMjHT2bpaWq82brtItIEy8aCmtVVOw3DrRL8rO-Pz5okvp0vFf4WeIB0p87yJAj3j5wRijfVI6EOCGXR5XwVz-p0Wd2aOEBULtaxYe6k/s1600/DSCN3088.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl9gzI4FTM7CQx5QZENvapMjcTOHwdAoOxkEKzDMjHT2bpaWq82brtItIEy8aCmtVVOw3DrRL8rO-Pz5okvp0vFf4WeIB0p87yJAj3j5wRijfVI6EOCGXR5XwVz-p0Wd2aOEBULtaxYe6k/s200/DSCN3088.JPG" t8="true" width="150" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMHoWb4rouTiQV-ogx8TgJ5nxNJA8e8t0yEqa_u2p2JQqhURTuSXShSODCC4wiFvosXlGUWGTgN5bjFTctC28FdgdUS5PWZVG99xY-_R0YtFEG3dTmY63Fb8GcwKxzLr_3L5WvmCavacxx/s1600/DSCN3084.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMHoWb4rouTiQV-ogx8TgJ5nxNJA8e8t0yEqa_u2p2JQqhURTuSXShSODCC4wiFvosXlGUWGTgN5bjFTctC28FdgdUS5PWZVG99xY-_R0YtFEG3dTmY63Fb8GcwKxzLr_3L5WvmCavacxx/s400/DSCN3084.JPG" t8="true" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">Inside, there was a little bit of everything. The store is a knit, crochet and needlepoint shop. I always love seeing all the tiny skeins of embroidery floss and needlepoint yarn! They also had all kinds of curiosities, like this gnome needlefelting kit. This was really hard to resist! And they carry one of my favorite yarns of all time, <a href="http://translate.google.com/translate?hl=en&sl=es&tl=en&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.manos.com.uy%2F">Manos</a> Silk Blend. </div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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This is the yarn that I used for my mom's Christmas present. I made her the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/FloursAndFibers/lovely-leaf-lace-scarf">Lovely Leaf Lace Scarf</a> from the <a href="http://www.purlbee.com/hand-knit-lace-scarf/2008/12/2/very-special-scarf-lovely-leaf-lace.html">Purl Bee</a>.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5pxmD4-eL1HWqhBsc_2fDp0vrHZNJROjzuq_b9f0y302E48riV5ITePSctjETIdOAmf0CbLREGzXcI2zqwGlRoJHHLV5cuYzCtdmFeGUdxa1JmcPaRSTpdpXHU3gijsAnaLvOeQpTeMsN/s1600/lovely2_medium2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5pxmD4-eL1HWqhBsc_2fDp0vrHZNJROjzuq_b9f0y302E48riV5ITePSctjETIdOAmf0CbLREGzXcI2zqwGlRoJHHLV5cuYzCtdmFeGUdxa1JmcPaRSTpdpXHU3gijsAnaLvOeQpTeMsN/s320/lovely2_medium2.jpg" t8="true" width="240" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">I couldn't get everything I wanted, though, because I had over three hours to stay in the shop before I had to leave for the airport, and limited luggage space to bring back my treasures. So before I bought anything, I sat down at the table and started knitting. It was then that I met a few of the shop's wonderful employees. Robyn was there knitting on her day off. Maybe her family didn't understand going to "work" on your day off, but I certainly would do that too, if I worked at a yarn shop! Beth and Alex were both very helpful, and I'm glad I got the opportunity to knit with all of them during a quiet hour or so at the shop around lunchtime. Alex was so nice to let me leave my knitting while I went across the street to grab lunch. I met many of the shop's patrons, and all seemed very happy to be there. Including the 91-year-old grandmother, who took the bus to the shop to get some help on a baby sweater!!</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">Of course, I couldn't leave empty-handed. Does this yarn look familiar?</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivtcTR5JwsUM1J1H9q6rzfGuqDkhF5QErTHdeBSPw_BUESTxgWIOcnHIP589L130tXrFFgPEyJ67L_bAaQB6596Vn2qmFHiH6mFGDOzW5oi65MtAR9Rofu_GSPFJiOXIIoyelNg0jNbkGq/s1600/DSCN3098.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivtcTR5JwsUM1J1H9q6rzfGuqDkhF5QErTHdeBSPw_BUESTxgWIOcnHIP589L130tXrFFgPEyJ67L_bAaQB6596Vn2qmFHiH6mFGDOzW5oi65MtAR9Rofu_GSPFJiOXIIoyelNg0jNbkGq/s320/DSCN3098.JPG" t8="true" width="320" /></a></div>Yep, that's the discontinued Noro Silk Garden Lite that I used for the <a href="http://floursandfibers.blogspot.com/2011/02/eldridge-knitting-nook-and-dorrie.html">Dorrie Entrelac Cowl</a>. I don't know what I'll do with three more skeins, but somehow my stash seems more complete with these new additions. I also picked up some <a href="http://www.knitonecrochettoo.com/2ndtimecotton.htm">Second Time Cotton</a>, from Knit One, Crochet Too. This comes in many colors and is very affordable! <br />
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I reluctantly left the shop at around 3 pm. But it didn't talk long for me to see another knitting project. Meet my knew friend Rae's airport knitting!<br />
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This sweet basket weave scarf is made from a beautifil skein of <a href="http://www.missbabs.com/">Miss Babs</a> hand-dyed yarn. Rae split the skein and is holding the yarn double for this project. I was so happy she sat down next to me in the airport to talk knitting!<br />
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And if you think that sounds like a good knitting day, stay tuned. I'll write about World Wide Knit in Public Day soon! <br />
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Cheers and Happy Knitting!<br />
Laura<br />
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</div>Laura ( Flours and Fibers)http://www.blogger.com/profile/17027281140267592744noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6199042869757992921.post-26478762727506296612011-06-09T19:33:00.000-05:002011-06-09T19:33:19.093-05:00World Wide Knit in Public Day!Attention all Quad Cities and North Scott Knitters!!!! There are multiple opportunities to participate in "World Wide Knit in Public Day"! <br />
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<a href="http://www.misseffiesdiary.blogspot.com/">Miss Effie's Country Flowers and Garden Stuff</a> is hosting a sangria-fueled knitting, spinning and crocheting extravaganza. Starting at 2 pm on Saturday, June 11 until 7 pm. There will be trivia games, sangria and much crafting! Please RSVP to me or Miss Effie so we don't run out of wine.<br />
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If you want to get a good food base before you start knitting and drinking sangria, stop by the new yarn shoppe in Eldridge, <a href="http://365daysonafarm.blogspot.com/">365 Days on a Farm Yarn Shoppe</a>. I know I will! On Saturday, there is a potluck starting at 11 and the event runs until 4! Bring your knitting, a dish to pass, and a lawn chair. We'll be knitting outside across the street from the shop! RSVP to Tammy at 563-285-9985!Laura ( Flours and Fibers)http://www.blogger.com/profile/17027281140267592744noreply@blogger.com0