A Slice of my September

It's been stressful having the kids back at school. There are so many papers to sign and details to look after. But Luke has settled right into highschool and he seems to be happy. We're so relieved and hopeful too, that he may finally bloom. He's writing, he's interested in after school activities and he seems to be taking a proactive interest in his homework. Of course, as soon as one kid gets his act together, it's the other one's turn to kick up a fuss.

Alex is extremely resistant to water these days. Which is unfortunate, because at twelve, his need to shower has increased. Apparently, I'm an entirely unreasonable mom for expecting him to shower two days in a row. I was quite surprised to get so much resistance on such a trivial topic, but we've hammered out an agreement; if you stink, go shower.

My thrill for the week came from my co-worker Carl. In July we were discussing our pending summer vacations and when I heard he was making a trip to Iceland I naturally mentioned Icelandic yarn. He volunteered to pick some up for me and asked me what kind I liked. I asked for naturally colored laceweight and lo! behold what Carl delivered:

I was gobsmacked, speechless and just about ready to squeal. What a thrill! I wanted to repay Carl his money, so I asked him how much it cost. 920 kroner which he tells me translates into about $12 Canadian. Dudes, Schoolhouse Press wants that much for one ball, plus shipping. What really makes this yarn special for me, is that Carl went through the trouble to get it. Thanks again Carl!!!

I think the Icelandic yarn wants to be a sheep puppet. (Likely held double.)

My Sandy Cardigan is almost done, but I have to wait yet for the buttons. I want to save telling you about it for a future post, but let me just say: It is good. Very good.

I finished a pair of socks.

Pattern: Knotty Pines, from a vintage Patons book
Yarn: MadelineTosh Highland Sock
Needles: 2.25mm

I had no idea one sock is darker than the other. It doesn't matter in the least. The yarn was lovely to work with, and I really enjoy how the color worked up. The pattern was simple to memorize and work. Even though it's a lace pattern, it's not excessive. This pair will be going to Jim. My sock drawer is quite full.

In the cheap thrills department, I found this at my local Goodwill:

I got two for 49 cents each. There's a nice soft halo to this yarn that would be lovely on a pair of mittens. There's something romantic about red wool mittens with a soft halo about them.

Next week I'm looking forward to going to the Kitchener-Waterloo Knitter's Fair. I expect to see a fair number of Londoners there. I'll be watching for you; give a shout out if you see me. I'm pretty sure I have readers in the London area that I've never met. Please introduce yourself. I'd like a chance to say Hi!

And just to round out this rambling post, I give you vegetable sheep: